Deer Could Be Shot to Control Population

The nonnative deer population is growing, and authorities are discussing shooting herds to keep the numbers under control. If nothing is done, biologists are concerned the deer may overwhelm native deer and elk for food and water.

Until 1994, the deer population was kept in check by shooting done by park officials. The meat was sold to San Quentin prison and organizations that feed the needy.

Money made from meat sales essentially paid to keep the herds in check. But when the prison and organizations stopped buying the meat, there was no money left to fund the shooting of the animals.