The Village of Allouez could be turning to bow hunters to help manage booming deer and turkey populations.
With more than 300 acres of park land and conservancy running along the East River, Allouez Parks Director Brad Lange says the village has become a haven for turkeys and deer.
"They have everything that they could absolutely need, plenty of food, cover and water," says Lange.
But in the past few years, Lange says more residents have called to complain.
"Landscape plants being eaten by the deer, turkeys scratching up yards, a little fearful to be out in the yard with young kids because the turkeys for the most part aren't really afraid of you," says Lange, adding that some residents are even worried about driving on residential streets, especially at night.
Since 2008, there have been 13 car-deer collisions in the village
"We've had a few calls over the last year and a half to put deer crossing signs up."
Lange says he's in favor of a controlled hunt and allowing qualified bow hunters into selected areas near the East River to reduce the deer and turkey populations.
But whether or not hunting signs go up remains to be seen.
Lange says public input at tomorrow night's listening session at village hall will be key in moving forward.
"I think it might be time to do something, but what that is yet, we're hoping residents will help us determine what direction we go," says Lange.
Allouez's public listening session concerning the possibility of a deer and turkey hunt is tomorrow night at 6:30 p.m. at village hall.
