News & Publications >> Special Features
2008 Duke Forest Deer Herd Reduction Program
posted September 4, 2008
(The article that originally appeared in Duke Today can be accessed online at: http://news.duke.edu/2008/08/deer.html)
In recent years, parts of the 7,000-acre Duke Forest have experienced an overpopulation of white-tailed deer, which is threatening not only research projects, but also the overall ecology of the Forest. In addition, there has been an increase in tick-borne diseases and vehicular encounters.
Several years ago, we collected deer population data which indicated as high as 80 deer per square mile in some areas of the Forest. Recommended population levels are between 15 and 20 deer per square mile. This data and the documented ecological impacts led us in 2006 to conduct a herd reduction program in two locations on the Duke Forest. While successful, its small scale limited its effect on the entire Forest’s population.
We have now developed a program approved by the University administration to remove deer from the Forest with the assistance of two hunting groups. No public hunting will be allowed. We are working with the Deer Management Assistance Program of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, which determines the number of deer that may be removed to gradually reduce the population.
Hunting will begin September 15 and end December 30, Monday through Thursday. No hunting will be allowed Friday through Sunday or on holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year's Day.
Bow hunting will take place on the Durham Division, while bow and gun hunting will take place on the Blackwood, Eno and Hillsboro Divisions.
The Durham, Blackwood, Eno and Hillsboro Divisions will be closed to public access on hunting days, Monday through Thursday. Signs are posted at the entrance gates. The Korstian and Dailey Divisions will remain open Monday through Sunday during the hunting period. The Al Buehler Cross Country Trail will be open as well.
Available resources:
< View or print the closure calendar
< View or print the closure map
< Learn about recreation opportunities
