For third straight year, hunt will aim to cut down on overpopulation of deer
By Kelli Siehl, Correspondent, UnionvilleTimes.com
Pocopson plans a managed deer hunt to thin local herds, starting with bow hunting, next month.
POCOPSON — A vision of beauty and grace, deer are nice to look at but looks can be deceiving. These animals are harbingers of the tiny ticks that carry Lyme disease, cause thousands of dollars in automobile damage and as virtual eating machines, they destroy acres of farm crops as well as backyard landscapes.
According to Don Lane, Chairman of the township’s Deer Management Committee, state game officials say there should be no more than 10 deer per acre of land. In semi-rural, wooded areas like the township, that number jumps to as many as 20 deer per acre. To help control the growing numbers, the township is holding its third annual managed deer hunt. It will encompass several township properties and will take place on the following dates:
- September 19th thru November 26th – archery only
- November 28th thru December 10th – archery/gun
- December 26th thru January 28th, 2012 – archery only
Lane says there will be postings on several township properties advising of a “managed deer hunt in progress” and visitors are asked to stay on walking trails and to keep pets leashed at all times.
So far, 11 hunters have been approved to participate and will be issued bright green identification badges to help alleviate concerns when seen by residents and visitors. Hunting will be permitted on the designated dates from daybreak until 10 am and from 2 pm until dusk but will not be allowed on Sunday, it remains prohibited under state law. Anyone with questions pertaining to the Pocopson Township Deer Management Program should call 484-433-2957.
It seems that deer are on the minds of many area residents, especially those of hunters, hikers, landowners and horseback riders. The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County, the PA Game Commission, and the Kennett Township Deer Management Committee want to eliminate concerns by joining forces to help these groups work together during deer season. They are holding an informational meeting at the East Marlborough Township Building on September 8th at 7pm. Interested parties are asked to RSVP by calling 610-347-0347 by September 6th.
