Deer Population Control on Hill Island to Restore Forest Health
Official title: Implementation of the Deer Management Plan on Hill Island and Other Properties Affected by Hyperabundant Deer Populations 2025-2030
Parks Canada is continuing its deer management program on Hill Island in the Thousand Islands. Too many deer have been eating the forest understory, threatening native plants like Pitch pine. Since 2007, the agency has partnered with the Mohawks of Akwesasne to reduce deer numbers through controlled harvesting.
Why This Matters
Visit the Thousand Islands? You might notice the forests look different than they used to. Deer have eaten so much vegetation that rare plants are disappearing. This program aims to bring back healthy forests while respecting Indigenous harvesting rights.
What Could Change
Deer harvesting will continue until populations drop to about 4 deer per square kilometre. The Mohawks of Akwesasne will conduct the harvests on park lands. Forest monitoring will track whether native plants are recovering.
Key Issues
- How effective is the deer reduction strategy at restoring forest ecosystems?
- What is the target deer population density for healthy forest regeneration?
- How does the partnership with the Mohawks of Akwesasne support the management plan?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.