The B.C. Government is providing a maximum of $100,000 to local governments and First Nations communities across the province to support urban deer management projects.
Under the 2019-2020 Provincial Urban Deer Cost-Share Program, the communities involved in operational and research projects in regards to controlling urban deer population can submit a funding application until October 30, 2019.
“Eligible proposals will be evaluated by members of the Provincial Urban Deer Advisory Committee,” said the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (FLNRORD). “Final funding decisions are anticipated to be completed in November.”
Amongst the Provincial Urban Deer Advisory Committee are representatives from the Province, local governments, the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and the British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The Ministry of FLNRORD estimates that there are approximately 135,000 mule deer in B.C. along with 128,000 black-tail deer and over 100,000 white-tail deer. Those populations, although the majority remain wild, are starting to habitat inside communities, leading to the need for an urban deer management program.
Provincial Urban Deer Cost-Share Program is set to fund priority projects that meet the following criteria or need:
- Address human-deer conflict in areas where traditional deer management techniques are not appropriate
- Are consistent with objectives that have been developed through a community-based planning process
- Have a resolution of support from the local government’s council or board or Indian Band’s/First Nation’s Chief and Council
- Are compliant with all applicable laws and bylaws and adequately manage all human safety, environmental and animal welfare risks
- Are in accordance with a permit issued under the Wildlife Act, or any other statute
- Are technically sound, feasible and commit to reporting
- Are scientifically rigorous, if a research project
- Provide matching funds (e.g., from the local government, First Nation or any partners)
The application guide for the Provincial Urban Deer Cost-Share Program is available here.