Residents of Park Avenue Estates in Oliver have called on the Town for help in dealing with a deer problem.
In a letter to council, Park Avenue Estates strata secretary Michele Emmerson said mule deer have co-existed with residents since the complex was built 20 years ago.
“Increasingly in the last few years they have gone from welcomed visitors to unmitigated pests.”
Emmerson said they have made a strenuous effort to plant nothing but deer-proof and heat-resistant plants, however, the deer population has increased substantially.
Resident Vivian Budd-Cline said she contacted the BC conservation office and asked for advice. She was informed to contact the Town hall regarding a possible deer cull. She was in turn advised to write a letter to the Town outlining the concerns.
Budd-Cline described the birth of twin fawns across from the clubhouse, noting that mother and fawns see Park Avenue as their home.
She explained the twins came onto her patio and started eating her flowers. They were chased away, but then drank the water in the bird bath.
Budd-Cline said they are concerned that birthing will become a common occurrence in the complex.
“The problems will continue to grow with the destruction becoming worse,” she stated.
The woman pointed out ongoing damage to cedar trees, landscaping and lawns due to deer urine.
“Like most owners we enjoy seeing the deer, but they need to be in the wild.”
Budd-Cline was told by one conservation officer that the deer cannot be relocated.
Heidi Frank, the Town’s new chief administrative officer, said if the Town undertook wildlife control, it would have to develop new bylaws. She also noted it is a very contentious issue.
Councillor Maureen Doerr agreed, saying if the Town decided to start culling deer, a lot of people would not be happy.
Councillor Jack Bennest said some people seem to think the Town is in a better position to control this problem.
“The community at large don’t mind the deer that much. I really don’t know if this is an issue to tackle again.”
Bennest said a mother deer sits on his patio and eats berries. “They (the deer) are wonderful. So what’s the problem?”
Mayor Ron Hovanes didn’t see the urgency either.
“I’m loath to think we need a culling program for 12 to 15 deer.”
It was noted that it’s up to residents to control deer on their own property.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
