The Morgantown City Council has approved the use of Urban Deer Archery Hunts as a way to reduce the deer population in and around the community after the Urban Deer Committee explored alternatives, made recommendations to City Council, and completed an aerial deer count. It also helps feed homeless by providing donations of venison to local kitchens and shelters. The following resources are provided to make sure residents are aware of all aspects of the Urban Deer Archery Hunt.

We understand that a hunt may not be every resident's first choice when controlling deer population. For those interested, we are compiling resources to educate citizens about how to create a deer-resistant yard or property. These can be found at the bottom of the page under "Preventative Measures."

Registration for the 2013 Urban Deer Archery Hunt is closed.  Selection details coming soon.

2012 Urban Deer Archery Hunt

When: The 2012 Urban Deer Archery Hunt will begin on September 8, 2012 and run through December 31, 2012.

Where: Designated locations approved by the City Manager, including but not limited to:

• WVU Arboretum
• - Hunting permitted from Daylight to 10 a.m., then the last three hours of daylight.
• WVU Organic Farm
• WVU Farm Woodlot adjacent to West Run Road
• WVU Farm Property on Stewartstown Road
• West Virginia Botanic Garden
• Private Property adjacent to Green Bag Road
• Private Parcel on Chalfant Lane
• Private Parcels in Southpointe Circle
• - All private property hours are selected by the property owners, and are in compliance with WV State Hunting Laws.
• Designated portions of White, Krepps, and Dorsey's Knob Parks
• - Hunting permitted from Daylight to 10 a.m., then the last three hours of daylight.

Hunter Requirements

1. Hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and follow the State game hunting laws.
2. Hunters must successfully complete the Bowhunter Education Course.
3. Hunters must successfully complete an archery proficiency test.
4. Hunters must complete all parts of the hunt application.

The Hunters' List for the 2012 hunt has already been completed. Signup dates for 2013 will be announced in early 2013.

2012 Rules & Regulations

2011 Urban Deer Committee recommendations to City Council

Aerial Study and Deer Count, Appendix

City Ordinance adopting section 505.18: Urban Deer Management

Preventative Measures

Many residents have discussed the impact of a large deer population on planting gardens and flowers on their property. The following alternative resources are provided in an effort to reduce the impact of deer on plants.

• Deer-Resistant Landscaping
• A Practitioners' Guide to Community-Based Deer Management