In a recent Sherbrooke Public Plenary Committee meeting on June 4th, concerns arose over the surging white-tailed deer population in Beckett Woods.
A collaborative helicopter survey with the Ministry of the Environment tallied 119 deer, with 102 in Beckett Woods, resulting in a dense 11.3 deer per square kilometer, double the healthy rate.
Anaïs Gasse, a biologist with the ministry, assured that though not critical, the situation warrants action, citing potential car accidents and ecosystem imbalances due to vegetation consumption.
Gasse proposed hunting as the primary control method. Gaetan Drouin, Deputy General Manager of Sherbrooke, outlined the city’s proactive measures, including promoting hunting in surrounding areas and engaging property owners. Information sessions were also suggested to educate residents on coexisting with deer.
