Changes Being Made To Mt. Lebanon Deer Culling Plan
MOUNT LEBANON (KDKA) - Some changes are being made to a controversial deer culling plan in Mount Lebanon.
Last night, those opposed to the plan made their voices heard during a commissioners' meeting.
"In my mind, I think there's a better way," Glenda Grades said.
The room was packed at the meeting and there was big development in the location of three bait and trap sites. The change was due to a federal law prohibiting carrying or discharging a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school.
"While these three parks could still be used, the initial locations could not be used," Mt. Lebanon Manager Steven Feller said.
Proponents of controlling the deer population submitted their own petition signatures - around 1,400 of them - asking that something be done, without specifying what.
Among their concerns were Lyme disease and accidents.
"Opponents have been heard, those who want something done about the deer have been heard. And they've acted accordingly," Cori Vipperman said.
It's estimated to cost roughly $500 per deer. While a specific number of deer populating Mt. Lebanon is unknown, one area recently evaluated was called a major highway for deer.
"On the aerial survey that was done, more than 50 deer within a quarter mile of that particular area were located," wildlife specialist Brian Benner said.
Opponents say sterilization is a more humane option and say what's in the works is unethical.
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