Pittsburgh Expands Controlled Hunts Into More City Parks

Bowhunters are helping to thin the deer herd in some parks in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tony Campbell)

For the third year in a row, hunters will do their part to help control deer overpopulation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, city parks.

According to CBS, the Deer Management Program, which is a partnership between the city and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is returning to more parks this year after two successful seasons.

The deer overpopulation has resulted in more car crashes and a loss of native plant species in the city parks.

The city says 65 Allegheny County bowhunters were chosen to hunt after a background check, wildlife violation check, and rigorous archery test.

Notice signs placed around the park notify visitors of the hunt and encourage them to remain on established trails, keep their dogs on leashes as is already required by law, and to respect hunters' space.

Last year, bowhunters in five parks took 199 deer. Meat from 92 of the animals was donated to local food banks to provide 14,720 meals to residents in need.

Last season, the selected bow hunters were permitted to hunt in Frick, Schenley, Highland, Riverview, and Emerald View parks. This year, they’ll hunt in those same parks, as well as Hays Woods, McKinley Park, Hazelwood Greenway, Southside Park and Seldom Seen Greenway.

The bow hunt will take place from Sept. 20 through Dec. 13 and Dec. 26 through Jan. 24, excluding Sundays.