DEM INCREASES DEER HARVEST QUOTA ON PRUDENCE ISLAND

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management has announced an increase in the deer harvest quota on Prudence Island from 100 to 150 deer. The decision was reached after reviewing data regarding the number and health of the deer collected since the original quota was set in June.

According to Michael Lapisky, DEM Deputy Chief of Wildlife Resources, the increase is necessary to improve the health of the deer herd and the herd's habitat, which it shares with many species of migratory and resident wildlife. "An abundant deer population, combined with marginal health conditions and a low acorn supply, presents a serious situation this winter if the herd is not adequately controlled," Lapisky said.

The Prudence Island deer hunting season, already underway, is scheduled to end on January 12, or sooner if the quota is reached before that date.