Town seeks private help in curtailing deer population

In a letter sent to approximately 45 land owners, town officials are hoping to enlist the help of private residents to manage the island's growing deer population.

The letter, which was sent to residents who own in excess of 10 acres, asked for cooperation in opening their land to hunters who register with the town.

"To make progress toward the goal of herd reduction, more private land needs to be opened to controlled and limited hunting," the letter reads.

The island deer population, which has increased four-fold since 1998, is a concern for town and state officials.

According to a report released in August, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) estimates that the island's habitat can sustain 220 deer. Currently, it estimates that approximately 400 deer populate the island.

Hunters reported 56 deer kills on the island last season, while automobile drivers accounted for 26 more. In order to begin reducing the island deer population, DEM estimates that future harvests need to increase to approximately 126 animals.

According to Keiser, the town has already received several positive responses and is hoping to receive many more.