Overrun By Deer, Local Neighborhood Considers $25K Hunt

CHURCHILL, Pa. -- A local neighborhood is taking steps to control a reportedly out of control deer population.

Churchill, a neighborhood that is only 2.5 square miles, has reported nearly 50 car accidents caused by deer in the last two years.

“We get a call here and there about it and there really isn't much you can do about them since the population is so heavy around here,” said Buddy Richard of Critter Control.

Now the borough is working with the USDA and the game commission to start a program to hunt deer in the area.

Borough Manager Craig Robinson said Churchill is currently working to identify areas where the hunt could take place.

If the hunt takes place on private property, officials said they would need permission from the land owner.

“"They do eat this one red small bush I have,” said Cathrine Kosta. “And they stand in the driveway blocking you. But they are friendly and haven't caused any accidents."

Right now, the project is only in the investigative stage to see if the hunt is safe.

No money would be taken from the police fund, but would cost about $25,000.

USDA hunters would not make a profit from the hunt. The money spent would only cover expenses like travel.

Once killed, the deer would be taken to a processing plant and the meat would be donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank.

Tentatively, officials said the game commission and USDA would bring in federal employees who are sharpshooters.

The hunters would use low-velocity rounds and fragment bullets that would not pass through the deer.

Credits: WPXI.com