Bloomfield Township votes 7-0 for USDA deer study — not a cull
A federal wildlife biologist will study the township's deer population, likely starting in early 2027. Committee members say the vote does not authorize killing deer.
By OCJ Staff
Bloomfield Township will bring in a federal wildlife biologist to study its deer population after the Township Board voted 7-0 on Monday, Oct. 12.
The board approved a proposal from its Deer Advisory Committee to partner with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, WXYZ reported. A USDA biologist would assess the township's deer population, their habitat and their impact on the community. The work would likely begin in early 2027.
Not a cull
Committee members stressed that the vote does not authorize a cull or any program to reduce the deer population, according to WXYZ. Township officials said no decision has been made on a cull.
The study is meant to give officials data on how many deer there are, how big the problems are and what management options exist.
Committee volunteer John Cervenak told WXYZ the approval means the township will "hire a USDA wildlife biologist" to study the population and possible solutions.
Why the township is looking at deer
The committee formed more than a year ago after residents raised concerns about property damage, crashes involving deer and more frequent run-ins in neighborhoods. Members have researched what other communities do, looked at population control methods and gathered resident feedback.
Residents remain split. Some want more research before the township considers anything that could involve lethal methods. Resident Elliot Michaels told the station he strongly opposes the idea of a cull being discussed at all.
The cost of the USDA agreement has not been reported.
This story uses reporting from WXYZ.