Columbia County’s deer population causes damage to cars, forests, and crops every year. To responsibly manage the deer population at Columbia Land Conservancy (CLC) properties, CLC is partnering with local hunters.
A limited number of hunting permits have been distributed at sections of Hand Hollow, Schor, and Overmountain. Hunters must get permission from CLC, stay 300 feet away from all trails, clearly label stands, and report back at the end of their season. The season begins October 1 and concludes December 10. Hikers are encouraged to stay on the trails at the sites, wear brightly colored clothing (and consider putting gear on your dog!), and hike during the daytime.
“A deer population that is too high is wreaking havoc on the ecosystems at CLC’s public lands,” says Pat Knapp, Public Lands & Stewardship Coordinator. “Our hunting program is designed to reduce deer populations so that native plant species can thrive. Hunting is an important management tool and we are fortunate to have so many thoughtful and safety conscious hunters working with us.”
To learn more about hunting at CLC’s public lands, click here.
