Baltimore City is confronting a growing deer population that is negatively impacting its parklands. In some areas, deer densities are reportedly 20 times higher than the recommended 20 deer per square mile.
Too many deer can have lasting impact on wooded areas
Shane Boehne, a wildlife conservation analyst with the Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks, explained to WBAL-TV 11 News Investigates that deer are causing significant damage to trees by stripping bark from their trunks. This activity, if extensive, can kill the trees. The city has already begun using special zones within parks to protect vegetation.
The city’s new Deer Management Program will initiate in March and will utilize trained wildlife professionals with firearms expertise from the United States Department of Agriculture. Initial efforts will focus on Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park, Herring Run Park, and Druid Hill Park.
Parks will be temporarily closed during the nighttime sharpshooting operations, and the public will be notified through posted signage. The harvested deer will be processed, and the meat is planned to be donated to the Maryland Food Bank. Officials estimate that, if harvest goals are met, the program could provide over 40,300 meals to Baltimore City residents in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problem are deer causing in Baltimore City parks?
Deer are damaging trees by stripping bark, preventing young trees from growing, and contributing to the spread of invasive plants.
Which parks will be included in the initial phase of the Deer Management Program?
The program will initially focus on Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park, Herring Run Park, and Druid Hill Park.
What will happen to the deer that are harvested?
The deer will be processed, and the meat will be donated to the Maryland Food Bank.
As the program progresses, Rec and Parks may consider expanding the deer management efforts to additional parks based on data and identified needs. Will this program successfully restore balance to Baltimore’s urban forests?
