Mule Deer Committee Meets

Recent concerns about an apparently expanding mule deer population in Salmon has prompted the formation of a "Mule Deer Committee." Made up of representatives from the Police Department, Fish and Game, City Council, as well as the City of Salmon, the committee hopes to address concerns of residents. One of the first things on the committee's agenda is to determine the seriousness of the problem. In talking with city residents, City Councilman and committee member Chuck Bloodgood said "When I took an informal poll of about 40 or so folks, most of them like the deer and don't see what all the fuss is about. Most mentioned that we live right where the deer do." However, Bloodgood noted that the residents he visited with who were not happy about having deer in town had considerable damage done to their landscaping by deer. "These kinds of problems should be addressed and part of what this group wants to do is help residents learn how to enjoy their yards, but make sure that deer don't enjoy them too." A first step in this direction is to make sure that deer moving through town do not find reasons to stay. According to Fish and Game Regional Supervisor Jim Lukens, "We do not want the deer to feel secure being in town. If they cannot find food and shelter, they will be much less likely to stick around." To further this end the committee will be working with Fish and Game staff to provide informational materials about "deer proofing" yards. This can be accomplished by landscaping with plants that deer do not like as well as by using methods to deter deer damage such as netting and fencing. Residents should watch for articles in the newspaper as well as listen to the radio for helpful tips on discouraging deer. Residents who have problems with deer are encouraged to fill out an official complaint form now available at both City Hall and the Fish and Game office. Residents who file a complaint are asked to be as specific as possible about their problem. This information will be very helpful in finding a solution to specific problems. Complaints will be reviewed and residents contacted by Fish and Game staff to provide assistance. "This is a tough problem because one neighbor loves the deer and next door, they just want them out of their yard" said Bloodgood. "We all need to work together on this issue." By doing so, maybe we can get along with all our neighbors, including the four-legged ones.