Overview of USDA Animal Damage Control efforts to manage overabundant deer

Because wildlife is a valuable, publicly owned resource, federal and state governments are responsible for maintaining healthy, stable wildlife populations. When wildlife causes damage, government agencies have an obligation to control that damage on behalf of the public. Responsibility for wildlife damage management at the federal level has been legislatively delegated to the Animal Damage Control (ADC) program. Our paper discusses the role of the ADC program in deer (Odocoileus spp.) management and highlights recent projects that have reduced deer damage to crops and deer-related human health concerns. We also describe past and ongoing research and development activities conducted to improve deer management techniques.