Sport Hunting Decision Document Package for Parker River NWR

This hunt plan initiates the effort to reduce the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge’s white-tailed deer herd numbers to a level compatible with the habitat's carrying capacity. This action will provide a recreational opportunity for the hunting public to harvest surplus animals. As the deer numbers are lowered, the potential threat to public and employee health and safety from Lyme disease should diminish. This hunt is compatible with the wildlife management objectives of the refuge, and should cause minimum conflict with existing non-consumptive uses. The implementation of a deer hunt on portions of the refuge will increase the recreational opportunities Essex County area. Currently the refuge provides access for bird-watching, beach activities, fishing, hiking on trails, bicycling, guided tour groups, and educational activities.