Increased deer population impacts city

Medical Lake, has had a problem concerning the deer population in its city limits for several years. Deer are nonchalantly roaming the city limits, eating all vegetation and, unfortunately, getting hit by drivers commuting in and out of town. The longer this goes on, the more likely that animals that prey on the deer will follow.

The last thing we need are bears or cougars making themselves at home, as well. Not only is this problem taking a toll on the city, but it is becoming incredibly dangerous to drive after dark.

The deer population grows every year because they are being fed by Medical Lake residents, which causes the deer to become domesticated. To get this problem under control, anyone feeding deer in, or around city limits should be fined $500. These wild animals are becoming more like pets and it’s anything but positive for our environment or the deer.

At the Feb. 18, 2014 City Council meeting, a similar deer ordinance was turned down by a 3-2 vote. Since then, this problem has only grown larger and I hope that City Council members will reconsider.

Although some residents may believe it is their right to feed whatever animals roam through their yard, it is not their right to negatively effect the local wildlife or other residents of Medical Lake.

Ian W. Graves

Medical Lake