Forsyth County Starts Urban Deer Control Program

To address the overpopulation of white-tailed deer in Forsyth County, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approved an urban deer management program during their Aug. 6, 2024, Work Session. The program aims to reduce damage to natural habitats and landscaping, improve deer herd health, and lower deer-related vehicle collisions.

In collaboration with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Urban Deer Management Program, the initiative includes two free archery hunts on Sept. 21-22 and Oct. 26-27. These hunts will occur on approximately 287 acres at the Shakerag Water Reclamation facility (545 Kemp Road).

Assistant County Manager Tony Tarnacki explained that the program was developed following numerous resident complaints about landscaping damage and deer-vehicle accidents, drawing on successful models implemented across Georgia and the United States.

Programs like this are a safe and ethical way to control the Atlanta area deer population.