The city of Wildwood is stepping up its game when it comes to handling the local white-tailed deer overpopulation issue. For those not in the know, these graceful pests have been causing quite a public safety stir, and the City Council has a plan for strategic culling that started in January 2024. These efforts are expected to reduce the deer density from an excessive 73 to a more manageable 40 per square mile, according to the information provided by the city on its website.
Using a surgical approach, the city began with the area boasting the highest deer density and is now gearing up for year two. No rest for the weary: legislation for the upcoming year's culling activities is on the docket for the City Council's Oct. 28 meeting. Plans for 2025 are already in the works according to the same source.
Next up on the chopping block for 2025, is a parcel of land enclosed by Highway 109, Wild Horse Creek Road, the City of Clarkson Valley, and the confluence of Strecker, Shepard, and Valley Roads. Those wondering whether their backyards will become deer reduction zones can consult an interactive map provided by the City, which neatly delineates the targeted area.
The City is not going lone wolf on this one – they're looking for residents, especially those with a minimum of three acres to their name, to join the fray and allow culling activities on their turf. Property owners who are ready to pitch in and help balance the ecosystem can step forward by submitting their details via the Resident Feedback Form.
Anyone with questions or burning curiosities about the inner workings of the deer management program can reach out to the Department of Public Works at the not-very-wild number 636-458-0440.
