8.2 PRSR 03-13-2019
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
8.2
Agenda Section
Discussion
Meeting Date
March 13, 2019
Prepared by
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Description
Deer Survey
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discussion
Background/Discussion
Wayne Becklan presented the Parks and Recreation Deer Hunt Program at the February 13 Commission
meeting. Individual park statistics of the deer hunts were presented and it showed overall, a successful year.
After the presentation. Chairman Anderson asked if the DNR could do a deer population count.
Staff does not recommend a deer survey as funding was not approved by the City Council in the 2019
budget process.
Since we conduct the hunts within the limits established by the DNR, we are not required to do a survey.
Based on the observations of the hunters as presented by Mr. Becklan, it is evident that a sufficient deer
population exists parks to justify continued hunts for 2019.
An aerial deer survey requires surveying the designated park area to include adjacent properties which
provide habitat that may support deer populations. This is conducted as the deer migrate daily in and out of
the parks so simply flying the park boundary may not capture the true population affecting the park.
Financial Impact
Based on the parks currently selected for city hunts, the estimated flight time to conduct a survey is
estimated to be 6-8 hours, this includes flight time from either the St. Cloud or Blaine airports where
helicopter services are available. Current hourly rates for helicopter services are $675 per hour for a total
survey cost of $4,050-$5,400.
Attachments
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