Does science have place in deer management?
I make reference to wildlife biologist Bryon Shissler’s findings to the Board of Game Commissioners. (“Few changes sought in doe allocations” by Marcus Schneck, April 21). Mr. Shissler’s Ecosystem Management Project tells me that science has no place in deer management programs. The article further stated researchers studying deer management programs in the last three years in all the lower 48 states found most are managing deer based on deer production goals and not science-driven programs. That, hunters understand. Mr. Shissler also pointed to the lack of broader representation on the board from interests other than hunters. That’s as bad an idea as the current federal administration wanting to take over the reins of the automotive industry and the banking system, which they know absolutely nothing about. Common sense tells the hunter that from time to time deer populations require downsizing, but not every year. ROBERT A.
