Emerald Isle officials said this week the town’s managed deer harvest program is nearing completion.
The Board of Commissioners discussed the effort during a recent meeting, describing it as part of ongoing population control measures. A similar harvest was conducted in 2023.
Two specially trained Emerald Isle Police Department officers, along with two spotters, conduct the harvest overnight using bows and arrows, according to town officials.
Police Chief Michael Panzarella said the town assesses several factors before initiating a harvest, including the number of deer-related vehicle crashes, citizen complaints, and police reports.
“All harvested deer are donated to Hope Mission to help feed people in need,” Panzarella said.
Hunting is limited to town-owned property and public rights-of-way, with no activity near homes, officials said, citing public safety concerns.
The current harvest is expected to conclude next week.
