MEMORANDUM
To: Township Supervisors and Staff
From: Paul Murphy, Local Road Manager
Date: September 25, 2024
Subject: Deer Removal from Properties (Outside ROW)
We have recently received a higher volume of inquiries from residents requesting KCRC to remove deer from outside the right-of-way, specifically from residential and business properties. Below is information that can assist you and your staff when addressing these inquiries.
Important Guidelines for Residents:
- Do Not Drag Dead Deer to the Roadside:some text
- Residents and business owners should not drag dead deer from their properties to the roadside.
- KCRC crews prioritize the removal of large animals killed in vehicle collisions from the right-of-way to ensure safety for motorists.
- KCRC's Role:
- KCRC is not a wildlife management agency, and we lack the necessary funding and resources to remove relocated or diseased animals. This activity detracts from our ability to focus on essential road maintenance.
- Private Removal Services:
- Residents seeking to remove dead deer from their properties can contact private wildlife removal companies for assistance, typically for a fee. For example, Rest in Peace (616-886-8639) is a local company addressing removal requests. Their fees vary based on the accessibility of the carcass.
Additional Options Provided by the DNR:
- Consult Trash Removal Companies: Some companies offer large-item removal services for a small fee.
- Burial or Natural Decomposition: Residents may choose to bury the carcass or allow it to decompose naturally, providing food for wildlife.
- Wildlife Removal Resources: The DNR provides a list of nuisance wildlife companies by county on their website for further assistance.
