Deer culling debate continues in Rochester Hills

In November, the City Council (of Rochester Hills) approved a plan to shoot some deer to help curb the eating of residents’ plants and reduce the number of vehicle-deer crashes. Rochester Hills had 219 vehicle-deer crashes in 2007.

The state Department of Natural Resources granted the city a permit to cull up to 200 deer. Sharpshooters from the Oakland County Sheriff ’s Office began shooting the deer at night on city-owned property in mid January.

The controversial deer culling program was put on hold in February, and a new committee was created to determine the best way to deal with the city’s deer population.  The debate continues as committee members and residents argue back and forth about the program. 

Those opposed to culling are worried about animal cruelty and citizen safety.  Those for it are concerned about the car-deer accidents, and claim that the deer population needs to be controlled beause the deer no longer have natural predators in the area.

I have seen so many dead deer at the side of the road, and I have also seen deer get hit. It seems very commonplace and I feel fortunate that I have missed those incidents safely.  But, who knows, it could be me next time, with my young children in the back seat.  I guess if I had to choose over killing deer and keeping my children and me safe on the roads, I would have to opt for safety for my family. Maybe there is an option where we can prevent the deer from coming to the roads???

What do you think?