IDNR: Deer numbers need to go up in some counties

Illinois officials plan to revise deer population objectives for 41 counties beginning with this year's hunting season.

Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller says a two-year review shows that the counties should shift from deer reduction to maintaining or increasing the herd.

Officials manage the state's deer herd by county and state population goals in order to reduce conflicts between deer and people — such as automobile accidents and crop damage. They also want to ensure deer health.

The IDNR's deer management review followed several public meetings in 2013 as well as surveys of hunters, landowners and others.

Officials acknowledge they must manage the deer herd based on conflicting viewpoints from hunters, wildlife observers, farmers, homeowners, outfitters and others.

An online survey is available for input.