BREWSTER – A proposition to expand town-owned conservation land for bow hunting of deer in Brewster is still being considered by the conservation commission.
Hunter and farmer Gary Kaser made the initial request to open up more land for bow hunting, specifically the Punkhorn Parklands, which currently has hunting restrictions.
Walkers, dogs, and riders on horseback often visit the town-owned Punkhorn, which spans over 800 acres. Kaser lives close to the Punkhorn and claims to have seen as many as 10 deer at a time on his property.
Opponents of expanding bow hunting in the town cite safety concerns for those who wish to use the lands.
Kaser and other people in favor of the proposal argue the deer population has grown exponentially in recent years.
Kaser said over 155 deer have been hit by cars in the town over the last three years, which leads him to believe population control is needed.
“I hate to see these animals getting killed by cars. Not only is it that they get killed by cars, it’s also a hazard to the public,” Kaser explained last week.
Brewster’s Director of Natural Resources Chris Miller said that the current policy will remain until the town’s board elects to go in a different direction.
“Rather than seeing those animals wasted, rather than seeing the numbers (sic) of deer collisions increase, I think the town should just look at it,” Kaser said.
“Maybe have some more educational stuff on what properties should be open and not open.”
The conservation commission will hold a future workshop on the matter. A date has yet to be determined.
About Brendan Fitzpatrick
