PORTAGE (WKZO-AM) — Deer are invading Portage, but the only methods available to get rid of them are either controversial or expensive.
Sprawling development has driven herds into residential settings, where they eat the landscaping and get struck by cars.
It’s already a problem on the northwest side of Portage, where there is a sizable herd.
Shooting them is controversial, and live capture and sterilization or moving them is very expensive.
To avoid that, Portage officials plan to collect data first. They want to make sure, if they recommend a solution, that its supported by facts.
The environmental board plans at least a year of surveys, studies, aerial headcounts and field tests before recommending a solution, knowing whatever they suggest will probably be opposed by someone.
