Controlled Deer Hunts at Ridley Creek State Park Planned to Help Forests Regenerate

Park to Close to Regular Visitors on Dec. 2 and 9

MEDIA, Pa., Nov. 18, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will hold regulated white-tailed deer hunting at Ridley Creek State Park on Dec. 2 and 9. The entire park, as well as a portion of Gradyville Road through the park, will be closed to the public on those days.

The hunts will be conducted for antlered and anterless deer by permit only.  Hunters were selected in a random drawing in October.

Biologists have determined that annual hunts are necessary to maintain a healthy deer population level for the park ecosystem and to ensure biological diversity.

"An overpopulated deer herd can take a heavy toll on woodlands," said Ridley Creek State Park Manager Roger McChesney. "The overabundance of deer at the park is hindering new plant growth, and destroying diversity and habitat for other wildlife.  Since we have been holding annual controlled hunts, we have seen an increase in tree regeneration, as well as in the presence of wildflowers and other growth.

"We apologize to our visitors for any temporary inconvenience," McChesney added.

McChesney noted that safety zones, no-hunting areas and park boundaries will be posted and strictly enforced. Extra park rangers, Game Commission wildlife conservation officers and state police officers will be stationed throughout the park during the hunts.

For more information on forest regeneration, visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us and choose "Find a Forest" and "Forest Health."

Media contact: Roger McChesney, Park Manager, 610-892-3900

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

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