Deer Population

Two deer in a resident's yardAbout a year and a half ago, the City began receiving increased reports from residents regarding deer-related concerns—larger herd sizes, more frequent sightings, significant property damage, and near collisions with vehicles. In response, we began exploring solutions.

What We've Done So Far

Georgia law does not allow local municipalities to independently manage wildlife populations. Only the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has that authority.

We initiated a dialogue with DNR, and they indicated a willingness to consider implementing a state-managed deer management program in Peachtree Corners—but only if a legitimate need could be demonstrated through data.

To gather that data, we launched a citywide deer survey approximately five months ago. We received 798 individual household responses—a remarkable participation rate for this type of effort. Based on the survey responses, we compiled an overview report and shared it with the state.

State officials then requested physical, on-the-ground assessment of deer activity to supplement the survey results. They tasked the City with deploying wildlife game cameras in designated zones.

What's Happening Now

Using survey data, we mapped a corridor of high deer activity—particularly between our park system and the Chattahoochee River and down along Peachtree Parkway. We divided this corridor into 20 equal grid sections, based on the acreage coverage standards provided by the state.

Within those 20 grids, we identified 135 private residential properties as potential candidates for on-site game camera placement. Working with those properties, we have received approval to place cameras on 20 sites.  The cameras will be placed on 10 sites for 21 days, removed and placed on the remaining 10 for 21 days.  All cameras will then be removed.

What Happens Afterward

All images and data collected will be submitted to the state’s wildlife authorities for review. Based on their analysis, they will decide whether to implement a deer management program in Peachtree Corners. Possible outcomes could range from no program being offered to increased public awareness campaigns to direct wildlife management strategies such as a population control effort (i.e., a targeted cull).

Deer in front Yard
Deer in the street
Deer in a yard
Deer in a yard
Deer in a yard
Deer in a yard
Deer in a yard
Deer in a yard
Deer in a yard