Urban Deer Problem Pushes Montana Town To Launch Controlled Hunting Program

Just this past weekend, I pulled out of my garage and into the alley to run an errand.  To my surprise, a couple of the neighbors were intently looking into the backyard of another property.  As I approached, I could finally see what they were admiring; a little two-point whitetail buck enjoying the afternoon.

via GIPHY

Now, if it were the outskirts of town, probably not an odd sight.  But right in the middle of Great Falls?  He must have known that the general rifle season for hunters begins this weekend.  Urban deer are increasingly becoming a problem for cities across the state.  Enough so that Havre is now offering hunting permits to thin the herd.

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Urban Deer Overpopulation in Havre Leads to Permits for Hunters

Along the highline of Montana, the town of Havre is one of those cities seeing an influx of urban deer.  The "City of Havre Urban Deer Hunt" hopes to cull the herd in the city by offering permits for hunters within city limits.

JD

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Those wishing to participate in the hunt must first obtain a hunting license and check in with the Havre Police Department prior to taking the field.  Hunters must also report any deer taken to the police department for keeping track of the population of deer.

No Rifles Allowed for Urban Deer Hunt Within City Limits of Havre, Montana

Hunters are required to use only a bow for hunting within the city limits of Havre.  Other requirements include field dressing your deer outside of the city limits with proper disposal at a landfill or other suitable area.

JD

The Havre Urban Deer Hunt lasts until February 15, 2027, within the city limits.  Hunters may only harvest antlerless deer and must have permission to hunt in the designated areas specified by the city here.