Forest Preserve District of Kane County. Mission & Goal

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1 Forest Preserve District of Kane County Mission & Goal Mission The mission of the Forest Preserve District of Kane County is to acquire, hold and maintain lands within Kane County that contribute to the preservation of natural and historic resources, habitats, flora and fauna; and to restore, restock, protect and preserve such lands for the education, recreation and pleasure of all its citizens. Goal Our goal is to preserve and restore the nature of Kane County. This is accomplished through the stewardship and conservation of the District s natural resources using a program of restoration, research, management and public education.

2 White-Tailed Deer Natural History & Biology White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) Males (bucks) usually weigh pounds. Females (does) usually weigh pounds. Mating occurs late October-January with a peak usually occurring in mid-november. Females give birth to 1-3 young. Most are born from late May through mid-june. Diet Deer are herbivores. They feed mainly on herbaceous plants and the leaves, buds and twigs of trees and shrubs (browse). They also consume grasses, acorns (and other mast), agricultural crops, garden and ornamental plants. Deer Populations in Illinois Nearly extirpated by habitat loss, and market and subsistence hunting by the late 1800s Natural immigration occurred and restocking began in the 1930s. By the late 1950s, a hunting season was allowed in 33 counties. Presently, deer are abundant statewide and hunting is allowed in some form in every county.

3 White-Tailed Deer Factors in Overabundance Humans Alterations to the Landscape Large predators of deer have been displaced or eliminated. Urbanization and habitat loss have driven deer into smaller areas. Fragmentation, and succession of habitats have created an ideal mosaic of forested and open areas (edge habitat) in which deer thrive. Agricultural areas provide cover and large amounts of food for part of the year. In urban and suburban areas, deer are becoming less exposed to hunting. Reproduction Adult females usually have 2 fawns, but in some cases, can have 3-4 fawns. With good nutrition, most yearlings do reproduce and some fawns may even reproduce. In 5 years, a single doe could potentially contribute 8 offspring to the population. Ideal habitat, good nutrition, mild winters, high survival and high reproductive rates are all factors contributing to high deer populations.

4 White-Tailed Deer Ecological Impacts Plant Conservation and Forest Regeneration Deer are selective browsers and prefer certain plants over others. Repeated browsing can affect the ability of plants to reproduce and persist (for instance, Trilliums and Orchids). Sensitive plant species can decline or even disappear. Overbrowsing can suppress the regeneration of desirable native tree species (oaks and hickories), leading to a shift in woodland tree composition. Trillium in flower next to numerous browsed stems Shade-tolerant species (maples) and invasive species (buckthorn) become more prevalent. The conditions created by overbrowsing favor invasive species. Reforestation Newly planted trees that are repeatedly browsed by deer have reduced growth and lower survival rates. The District has planted 20,000 oak seedlings in the last 5 years as part of a long-term reforestation program. Other Species The loss of plant species and structural diversity in the forest understory affects birds and other species who require these areas for food, nesting and cover. The decline of native mastproducing species in the canopy will affect many species, including squirrels, chipmunks, mice, as well as deer. There will be less available Ovenbirds are one of various ground-nesting forest species food.

5 White-Tailed Deer Impacts on Human Safety & Property Deer Vehicle Collisions High deer populations in areas of high human population increase the potential for deer-vehicle collisions. Kane County averaged 510 deer-vehicle collisions reported per year, from Tick-borne Diseases Lyme disease: Deer are not the reservoir of the disease agent, but are the preferred host of the adult stage of the primary vector, the black-legged tick. Babesiosis: This parasite affects blood cells in humans and can be severe. Deer are not the reservoir for this disease, but are the preferred host of the adult stage of the tick that spreads the disease, the black-legged tick. Anaplasmosis: This bacterial infection affects white blood cells. It can be transmitted to humans by the black-legged tick. There are a wide range of hosts including deer, rodents and livestock. These diseases are complex and involve many species, but deer play a role. Property Damage Deer browsing and antler rubbing can cause economic losses to agricultural operations, orchards, and tree farms, as well as cause substantial damage to landscape and garden vegetation.

6 Deer Population Health Chronic Wasting Disease Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) CWD is a 100% fatal disease of the nervous system that affects deer and elk. First found in Illinois in 2002, CWD was discovered in Kane County in CWD is currently found in 4 Kane County townships. So far, 11 positive deer have been found in Kane County. The primary transmission route is most likely direct contact (i.e., nose to nose). Growing evidence suggests indirect transmission is important as well (environmental contamination). High deer populations are more conducive to the transmission and spread of CWD.

7 Research Aerial Counts Helicopter Surveys Beginning in 2008, aerial counts have been conducted from a helicopter. Aerial counts are conducted in winter, when adequate snow cover exists (more than 3 inches). Two observers count deer, while transects are flown across an area. Detection is imperfect. Aerial surveys typically underestimate the number of deer. 60 Deer per square mile Initial Goal 0 Oakhurst LeRoy Oakes Johnson's Mound Helm Woods Freeman Complex Dick Young Burnidge Burlington Brunner Complex Bliss-Hannaford Blackberry Maples Big Rock Aurora West

8 Forest Preserve District of Kane County Land Management and Restoration Staff and volunteers use a variety of techniques to recreate and restore habitat, and to improve the resiliency of our natural areas, including: Seed collection, propagation and sowing Controlled burning Invasive species control Tree planting/reforestation

9 Deer Management Research Browse Studies The District is currently monitoring woody browse, indicator species, special populations and reforestation plantings at several sites. Outside research of Kane County woodlands has also occurred over a 20-year period. Research has found a decline in oak regeneration, a decrease in shrub species richness, an increase in the dominance of maples, and increases in invasive species. Changes were attributed to reduced fire and disturbances, canopy closure and overbrowsing by white-tailed deer. Woody browse surveys conducted thus far have recorded high levels of browse, shifting species composition, low presence of native shrub species, and low numbers of oak seedlings.

10 Deer Management How Are Similar Agencies Addressing This Issue? Deer Agency Management Sharpshooting Hunting Forest Preserve District of Cook County Yes Yes No Forest Preserve District of DuPage County Yes Yes No Forest Preserve District of Lake County Yes Yes No Forest Preserve District of Will County Yes Yes No McHenry County Conservation District Yes Yes Yes Boone County Conservation District Yes No Yes Forest Preserve District of Winnebago County Yes Yes No Forest Preserve District of Rock Island County Yes No Yes Forest Preserve District of Kendall County No No No

11 Deer Management Need for a Program Growing deer populations are a concern in Kane County and across the 8-county Chicago region. Population levels are increasingly at odds with maintaining plant diversity in natural areas, and at times, impact the safety and property of the public. We have deer populations that are higher than most conservation agencies manage for, to maintain diverse and sustainable ecosystems. There is evidence of ecological impacts in some of Kane County s finest natural areas.

12 Deer Management Program Mission & Goals Mission The mission of the program will be to maintain and enhance the diversity of flora and fauna within preserves. The program shall protect natural and restored plant communities from excessive deer impact by managing deer populations at levels compatible with the long-term health of ecosystems, using safe, effective and state-approved methods. Goals and Objectives Natural Resources Goal: Manage and maintain a healthy, stable deer population, appropriate to the habitat present at District preserves. - Population Objective: Establish population levels for deer at each site or complex of preserves. - Ecological Impact Objectives: Establish site or complex-specific objectives related to habitat, plant communities and restoration efforts, to preserve and enhance native plant communities and their associated fauna. Public Safety Goal: Enhance the safety of the public through management, where necessary. - Public Health and Safety Objectives: Establish site or complex-specific objectives related to the enhancement of the health and safety of the public. Reduce deervehicle collisions in management areas. Research zoonotic diseases. Communication Goal: Maintain communication with preserve users and neighbors. - Communication Objective: Maintain communication with the public regarding deer management activities, current research and information for resolving deer issues.

13 Deer Management Program Non-Lethal Options Take No Action There would be implications in the long term on vegetation structure and diversity, sensitive and rare species, habitat quality, wildlife, and human health and safety with this option. We must accept that high-quality ecosystems will be degraded by intense deer browsing. Attempts to restore other areas with the influences of high deer densities would be a consideration. This option is not compatible with the Forest Preserve District s mission or its duty to be responsible stewards of public lands. Apply Frequent Repellents This option requires frequent, yearly application. Application is time- and labor-intensive. Repellents cost approximately $100 per gallon and can treat roughly 400 tree saplings. Repellents also appear to decline in efficacy when deer populations are high, as feeding pressure can overcome the repellents effects. Install Extensive Fencing This option restricts movements of many species, not just deer. Installing fencing is costly. Recently, 2,200 linear feet of 8-foot fence was quoted at $55,000. Fencing or caging can be used to protect small, rare populations, but is not practical on large scales due to cost, roads, streams, utility right of way, etc. Extensive fencing would degrade the aesthetic qualities of our natural areas.

14 Deer Management Program Non-Lethal Options Trap and Relocate Mortality rates of 66% to 85% have been reported within 1 year, post relocation. In , the Lake County Forest Preserve District reported costs of $603 to $1,261 per relocated deer. Potential to spread diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will not issue deer population-control permits for this method. Fertility Control Methods: surgical sterilization, hormone implantation, immunocontraception Surgical sterilization requires a veterinarian and the capture of each doe. Costs are reported at $1,075 per deer, in a recent Cornell project. Immunocontraception requires the darting or capture of each doe. To cause a decline in population growth over time, 70-90% of females need to be treated. Immunocontaceptives currently require multiple treatments over time. The cost of labor, materials and the feasibility of treating an adequate number of deer will likely limit the use of immunocontraceptives to small, insular herds that are habituated to humans. IDNR will not issue deer population-control permits for experimental techniques. Supplemental Feeding State law prohibits the feeding of deer. Could encourage increased reproduction, which would increase ecological impacts.

15 Deer Management Program Lethal Options Reintroduce Predators Coyotes are the primary predator of deer in northern Illinois, but they generally take fawns. Reintroducing large predators (wolves or mountain lions) that would commonly take adult deer is impractical for ecological (lack of large habitat areas), social (safety concerns), and legal reasons. Controlled Archery Hunting Use hunting as a management tool during the legal season (Oct 1- Jan 20) by IDNR. Controlled hunts allow additional rules and restrictions to address safety concerns and other issues unique to each site. Program costs can be covered by user fees, rather than tax revenue. Sharpshooting This option must be conducted under a Deer Population Control Permit (DPCP) from IDNR. Sharpshooting entails the culling of deer at pre-selected locations, when preserves are closed to the public. Deer must be processed and donated to charity. Processing costs range from $30-$60 per deer. Existing staff can be qualified as marksmen and markswomen, to limit personnel costs incurred.

16 Deer Management Proposed Methods Current Status The District is already using non-lethal means (i.e., repellents and limited fencing) to mitigate deer impacts where practical and applicable. It is impossible to implement these methods over large areas, such as 1,000+ acre preserves. Currently, a field-proven, state-approved non-lethal means to reduce overabundant free-ranging deer populations does not exist. Proposed Methods When necessary, lethal removal of deer is the most-viable option and is the staff-recommended approach for reducing deer densities across specific, not all, District lands. This option is the most practical and effective means to manage deer populations and shall best maintain them at levels compatible with long-term conservation objectives. The two primary lethal means of removal recommended are: 1) Controlled archery hunting within the established deer hunting seasons. 2) Sharpshooting under a Deer Population Control Permit from IDNR. These methods are not mutually exclusive, and depending on the location and other factors, controlled hunting can be utilized initially or during the maintenance phase of deer management, after sharpshooting in the reduction phase.

17 Deer Management Proposed Methods Controlled Archery Hunting Safety would be the top priority of the program. If approved, controlled hunts would be conducted within the season established by IDNR. Program participants must comply with rules and regulations by the IDNR as well as the Forest Preserve District. Proof of completion of an approved hunter safety course would be required. Participants would be required to attend an orientation meeting and qualify during an archery proficiency test. Program participants would be chosen by a lottery open only to Kane County residents. The District would establish management zones based on available habitat, preserve boundaries, trails, access points, and recreational, residential and other developed areas. A fee structure will be established to help offset the cost of managing the program. The collection of a sample for Chronic Wasting Disease testing would be mandatory for participation. Sharpshooting Safety would be the top priority of the program. If approved, sharpshooting would take place in areas that cannot accommodate controlled hunts or where controlled hunts alone are not sufficiently reducing the deer population. The District would comply with all regulations and requirements of the IDNR s Deer Population Control Permit (DPCP). Marksmen and markswomen would be required to successfully complete the IDNR qualification process. Sharpshooting activity would be implemented while preserves are closed, to allow normal preserve use and ensure public safety. The venison from all deer taken under a DPCP would donated to food pantries and charitable organizations, as is required.

18 Brook Gary Deer Management Program Preliminary Site Identification Brunner Family Freeman Kame Lundstrom Winaki Nokomis Meghan Teri Charles Riverwood White Chapel Crescent Forest Lathrop Illinois Route 31 Longcommon Angelina Bolz Ridgefield Huntley Barko Aztec West Hill Ridge Parsons Country School Algonquin Melody Oxford Castlewood Kings Lake Shore Carriage Way Gabrielle Adam Brotto Hannah Pearl Powers Freeman Mary Forest Trail Sunburst Blue Aster Galligan Miller Oak Knoll Sunset Paperbark High Ridge Commerce Park Skyline Koppie Binnie Lake Marian Huntley Harbor Anchor Rivers View South Wind Elm Western Fox River Lincoln Wisconsin Main Lord Green Maple Grove Day Memory Thatcher River Bluff Spring Park Williams Oak Vana Carpenter Goethe Windham Tamarac Cleveland Deer Hill Wilmette Rosewood J Brookdale Big Timber Tower Hill I-90 Illinois Route 72 Toll View Tyler Creek Park Industrial Willey Jackson Higgins Tyrrell Center Town Center J Elgin Sola

19 Deer Management Program Summary Similar to other urban and suburban areas in the Chicago area and throughout the United States, there is evidence of elevated deer populations at many District properties. Some populations are well above levels, where other conservation agencies have observed substantial impacts to natural areas. There is evidence of ecological impacts in some of Kane County s finest natural areas. Responsible stewardship and natural resource management require that we manage our natural areas for the long-term benefit of all species. Having evaluated the options currently available for managing deer populations, controlled archery hunts and sharpshooting are the only safe, effective and state-approved means for reducing free-ranging deer populations. Deer management is not a one time event, it is a long-term commitment.