Cull Protesters Demonstrate In Mt. Lebanon

MT. LEBANON (KDKA) – Protesters were out Saturday to oppose deer culling in Mt. Lebanon.

The Mt. Lebanon commissioners had previously approved a plan to set up traps and shoot the animals as a way to control the deer population.

However, this week commissioners made some changes to the plan.

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.

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.

Opponents say sterilization is a more humane option and say what's in the works is unethical.

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