“Deer should be unseen.”
But Grand Haven resident Rich Clapp says he sees the animals all over the city.
“I see them all the time. We all do.”
“There are too many deer and not enough food.”
During a presentation to City Council, Jean Madden on the Grand Haven Forest Management Committee says the overpopulation of deer is threatening the city’s Duncan Woods, Mulligan’s Hollow and Lake Forest Cemetery.
“The forests are not regenerating naturally because the deer are eating tree saplings before they are able to mature.”
“Our forest are now in a death spiral.”
Chris Roberts and others who addressed the council said a deer management plan is overdue.
“One thing I have yet to hear on this issue is an argument why you shouldn’t manage the deer. I haven’t heard anyone talk about how having an out-of-control deer population is a benefit.
The city is studying the problem. Councilman Kevin McLaughlin says he is ready for action:
“I went to work the other day and there were five deer walking down the street like they owned it. I think it is a huge problem in this community. So, I don’t need a lot of convincing. The damage is done and I think to turn your back on it is irresponsible.”
