East Hampton Decides Not to Cull Long Island Deer

John Mitty Monday, February 3, 2014

Earlier this year, it was reported that East Hampton officials were planning on killing thousands of deer on Long Island in order to curb instances of Lyme disease and reduce pesky invasions into local farmland and gardens.  Snipers would have been hired to kill about 3,000 deer after dark with silenced weapons so as not to disturb locals. 

Locals however were very disturbed by the news, which led to a public outcry against the culling plan.  In particular, the Wildlife Preservation Coalition of Eastern Long Island spoke up, garnering 11,719 signatures on their petition to stop the slaughter.  Not only was the plan unethical, stated opponents, but it also had no basis in science, as deer often have more babies following herd losses in subsequent years in order to make up for the lost numbers.  Given the loud backlash, East Hampton village mayor Paul F. Rickenbach Jr. announced that the plan will not go through, and the deer will not be killed.  Now East Hampton is investigating alternative plans like sterilization which might take care of the issue in a more humane manner.  On their Facebook page, the East Hampton Group celebrated their victory.  “To everyone: Your compassion has made a difference … goodness has prevailed at this time and this place.”  

jmitty@longislandyellowpages.com

Appears In: Business News

 

 

• Business News
• Education
• Entertainment
• Jobs & Careers
• Local Events
• Local Steals, Deals & More
• Press Releases
• Restaurants & Food
• Sports & Recreation

Columnists John M.   Show all Columnists