We should know next month the fate of white-tailed deer in the Mill Creek Metroparks system.

The park board is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. on April 10 to vote “yes” or “no” on a recommendation to thin the deer herd.

Park officials say there is what they call “a severe overabundance” of white-tailed deer with population densities more than 19x higher than recommended levels on park property.

According to park officials, the number of deer has led to “extensive” ecological damage to the native flora and fauna found throughout Mill Creek Park and other regional preserves.

Options park officials say are based on current scientific research and management practices approved by the Ohio Division of Wildlife include a controlled hunting program a parks in Mahoning County where “safe and appropriate”.

Hunters would be chosen through a random lottery conducted by the Ohio Division of Wildlife, and would take place during the regular September – February hunting season.

Where hunting through the lottery system is not feasible due to safety concerns, park officials say deer would be removed by professional marksmen in a partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s APHIS Wildlife Services.

Venison from USDA harvested deer would be donated to the community through local food banks and other community outreach programs.

A single mature deer can provide over 200 meals to people in need, according to a news release from the park.

The deer control plan has met with opposition from some, including a group that has started a Facebook page “Help Save the Mill Creek Park Deer”.

The question estimates of 387 deer per square mile on park property, claiming the figure is exaggerated.

Metro Parks officials say more information about plans for the deer can be found by following the below link: