Local Governments in Kent County Tackle Deer Nuisance and Vehicle Crashes:
Local governments in Kent County, Michigan, are collaborating to address the escalating problems caused by deer overpopulation, including nuisance behavior and vehicle crashes. A recently established task force, bringing together the county, its cities, and townships, is partnering with Grand Valley State University (GVSU) to conduct a comprehensive study on deer issues.
The study, which is still in its planning stages, will gather data from residents and road agencies to assess the size and distribution of the deer herd. This information will aid in devising effective mitigation strategies tailored to the specific needs of different areas within the county.
The task force’s goal is to identify a range of solutions, from education campaigns to deer culls, that can be implemented based on the unique characteristics of each community. Agricultural, urban, suburban, and downtown settings may require different approaches.
Kent County had the highest number of deer-vehicle crashes in the state in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for action. Local road agencies are actively collecting data on deer carcass pickups to inform the study.
Grand Rapids has also experienced a surge in deer nuisance complaints, particularly related to landscaping damage. The city’s collection of deer carcasses reached a four-year high in 2022.
The task force is exploring long-term solutions to address the deer population issue and its associated problems. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has suggested deer culls as a potential option, but the task force is considering a broader range of measures.
The task force’s efforts are expected to culminate in a comprehensive report with specific recommendations for managing the deer population in Kent County. The report is anticipated to be completed by early 2025, providing valuable guidance for local governments and residents alike.
