Urban Area Deer Population Creating Problem

Intro: The Conservation Department has created the urban deer season in an effort to decrease the deer population in many of the urban areas around the state.

Carly Robertson has more on the story.

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A Resource Scientist with the Conservation Department, says the number of deer taken in this short four day season was down for the third year in row.

Although hot weather conditions contributed to the low number, Lonnie Hansen says the real problem in the urban areas is the lack of access available to hunters.

City ordinances against the use of hunting guns and shooting bows prevent the urban deer season from making an impact.

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Description: "So in many ways even though we provide the tools and the opportunity for hunters to take deer and to at least help with the control of population in many situations it simply can't be done."

With the arrival of hunting season, Hansen warns drivers to be especially watchful for deer on the side of the road.

Reporting from Jefferson City, I'm Carly Robertson.

Intro: Conservationists warn that it's deer season and that means you're at a higher risk for a deer-vehicle accident. Carly Robertson spoke with the state's Conservation Department and has more. RunTime:
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Lonnie Hansen is a Resource Scientist with the Conservation Department.

He says drivers should be especially watchful during this time of the year for deer crossing the road.

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Description: "We're coming into the time of year where we see most of our deer vehicle accidents. Deer breeding season is just picking up now and as a result deer move over larger areas."

Statistics show drivers in urban counties may be at the highest risk.

The amount of traffic in these areas accounts for the high number of deer related accidents.

Hansen warns drivers out in the early morning and evening hours should be especially aware.

Reporting from Jefferson City, I'm Carly Robertson