I’m pleased to hear the city taking steps to control the deer population.

I’m glad they are utilizing the skills of a wildlife conflict specialist who has experience dealing with human/wildlife relations.

The acronym from Cornell University is a bit intimidating - CBDM (Community Based Deer Management) — but to think we could be the first West Coast city to adopt the program is exciting!

Before we get too academic, I’d like to offer my “community-based” opinion: There are really folks in the area who love the deer. 

Here’s an example: When it’s hot, my neighbor provides water. When they give birth, she hangs signs around her yard saying “quiet, doe and fawns nearby.” No matter how many emails I send her explaining the damage to our garden and crops (in the many $1,000s now) she continues providing sanctuary for these animals. 

Real deer control in our city is going to need to address the hearts and minds of folks who not just tolerate but foster and nurture these animals.

I don’t know who or what is going to convince them that these animals are pest, nuisances, and at times dangerous, but it’s going to have to be very good, very convincing, and backed up with a lot of evidence about the damage they cause. 

We are going to have to agree as a town that we need to rid ourselves of these animals before we can actually do so, in my humble opinion.

Aleta Greenway
PORT TOWNSEND