NOTICE OF SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING

CONSERVATION OFFICER SERVICE REMINDER – HUDSON’S HOPE

Conservation Officer Service Reminder – Hudson’s Hope

It has recently been brought to the attention of the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) that urban deer are potentially being fed within Hudson’s Hope. Feeding deer, or any kind of wildlife, causes the animal to lose its fear of humans resulting in a higher risk to public safety.

The BCCOS recognizes that in some British Columbia (BC) communities, there are increasing numbers of human-deer conflicts in urban and rural areas. This is not unique to BC; it is a North American phenomenon. Deer inhabit residential areas because they feel protected from predators and have access to an abundance of food. Deer are not considered dangerous wildlife but may act aggressively to protect themselves or their fawns. As with any wildlife, they must be given respect and space.

It is important that homeowners understand the consequences of attracting deer into town. Feeding can increase the dependence of deer on people, lead to aggressive behaviour and facilitate disease transmission and habituation. Deer are long-term residents of both remote and semi-rural areas and humans will have to adapt and co-exist with wildlife. It is incumbent upon landowners to make reasonable efforts to protect their properties from deer before the Conservation Officer Service can take reasonable action. Strategies for successful co-existence could involve:

• Selecting landscaping plants that are unpalatable to deer.
• Building suitable fences for play areas and enclosing gardens.
• Acquiring an assertive dog (but keeping it under control and on a leash).
• Never feed deer and educate your neighbours who do.
• Educating your children about wildlife.

DECEMBER 2018

INVITATION TO BID

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The 2017 CARIP report can be located through this link: Climate Action Revenue Incentive (CARIP) Public Report for 2017