Delmont the latest community to start deer-culling program

Four deer hunters will get a chance to wait for their quarry in the confines of Delmont’s Shields Farm this fall.

Council voted to begin a deer management program on the Shields Farm property, 145 acres that belongs to the borough but is technically in Salem.

“A couple members of the community were interested in hunting that area, and other places like Murrysville have a hunting program for their parks,” council President Andy Shissler said. “Also, if you go out there this time of year, there’s a good chance you’ll come out with a tick on you. So reducing the deer population could also hopefully help keep the ticks at bay.”

The program is a common one. Murrysville has opened up seven of its parks to a deer management program.

“It used to be just for muzzle-loader hunting when it started, and then it transitioned into archery hunting from a tree stand,” said Amy Wengrzyn, Murrysville Parks Recreation program coordinator. “The number of hunters we register is based on park acreage, and we have between 70 and 80 people who usually sign up.”

Next door in Plum, Mayor Harry Schlegel recently asked council to consider a deer management program for the borough, which could open up areas like Boyce Park to hunters. Plum Council President Paul Dern said he would like to see the issue put to a community referendum before taking any action.

Fox Chapel, Ross and Mt. Lebanon cull their deer herds, and Pittsburgh began an archery-controlled deer management pilot program in 2023 in Frick and Riverview parks. Last year, the city expanded the program to include Schenley, Highland and Emerald View parks. In addition, sharpshooters killed deer in Frick and Riverview parks at night this year.

Ross also authorized sharpshooters to begin sniping deer in the township in the coming years.

Delmont plan

In Delmont, hunters will be required to hunt the Shields Farm property a minimum of six times per season. They must hunt archery only from a tree stand and must follow all Pennsylvania Game Commission rules and regulations. Hunting is not permitted Sundays or during the annual Apple ’n Arts Festival in early October.

Preference for applicants will be given to Delmont residents, employees and those who live in the surrounding area. The program will be limited to four hunters. If more than four apply, a lottery will determine who is registered.

Hunters must attend a qualification meeting each year before the season begins to complete the relevant paperwork, pay a $35 annual fee and qualify the safety and accuracy of their archery equipment.

To apply for the program, fill out the Google Form at Tinyurl.com/fmn96c26.