DNR Seeking Public Comment For Deer Management Unit Boundary Review

DNR Seeking Public Comment For Deer
Management Unit Boundary Review

The DNR is seeking public comment on proposed changes to the deer management unit boundaries. / Photo Credit: Bob Haase

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking preliminary public input on proposed modifications to the state’s deer management unit boundaries. The comment period will run from Oct. 11 through Oct. 20, 2024.

The DNR reviews deer management units every few years. This review will focus on the management units in the Northern Forest Zone, the Metropolitan subunits and the boundary lines between the Forest and Farmland Zones. The Farmland Zone units are not being reviewed at this time.

The DNR is using this year’s evaluation to consider suggestions received during County Deer Advisory Council meetings and legislative hearings. Three of the suggestions being considered are:

1. Adjusting deer management unit boundaries within the Northern Forest Zone based on habitat type rather than county borders.
2. Reducing the size of the Central Forest Zone (especially in Wood, Adams, Juneau and Monroe counties).
3. Adjusting Metropolitan subunits around the state.

The purpose of this comment period is to help the DNR gauge public support for these changes.

Please share any thoughts, questions or concerns using the comment tool on the DNR’s Deer Management webpage. A map of deer management units and management zones is also available to help visualize the current boundaries. The DNR will review and consider all feedback submitted during the input period.

A final recommendation will be presented to the Natural Resources Board for approval in time for the 2025 deer season.