Commissioners propose statewide antlerless deer license to support struggling farmers

Farmers in Pennsylvania are set to receive much-needed support following a unanimous vote by the Pennsylvania Game Commission's Wildlife Management Committee to overhaul deer management programs. During the meeting on December 19, 2024, Commissioner Alan DeMarco emphasized the financial struggles faced by farmers due to deer damage, particularly as commodity prices decline while input costs rise. He advocated for a more sympathetic approach to assist farmers who rely on their crops for their livelihoods.

The committee agreed to empower staff to draft specific language for the proposed changes, which will be presented at the January meeting for further discussion and approval. This initiative aims to address the significant crop losses reported by farmers, with some experiencing yields as low as 5 to 10 bushels per acre, far below the expected 40 to 60 bushels.

In addition to the deer management program overhaul, the committee also discussed the creation of a general unit antlerless deer license. This new license would allow hunters to pursue antlerless deer across most of the state, rather than being restricted to specific wildlife management units. This proposal is expected to enhance hunting opportunities and is slated for full board discussion in January.

The committee's decisions reflect a commitment to balancing wildlife management with the needs of the agricultural community, ensuring that farmers can sustain their operations while also managing deer populations effectively. As these initiatives move forward, they promise to have a significant impact on both local agriculture and wildlife management practices in Pennsylvania.