Walker city leaders are moving forward with a proposal to conduct a controlled deer hunt this winter, after the regular hunting season ends, in order to address the city’s growing deer‑related traffic safety concerns.

Why the hunt is being considered

In 2025, Walker recorded 159 deer‑vehicle collisions, the highest number of any city or township in Kent County. That statistic means a deer was more likely to die in a crash than from a hunter’s bullet or arrow. City Manager Shay Gallagher explained, “How do we make the city safer and our roadways safer? That’s why we’re looking at this today.”

Gallagher emphasized that the plan is not a cull but a targeted reduction effort aimed at balancing the presence of deer with public safety. The city would seek permits from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to allow out‑of‑season hunting, while all other state hunting regulations would remain in effect. Permission from private landowners would also be required before any hunting takes place on their property.

Community response

Local residents expressed mixed feelings about the deer population. June Preisner, a neighbor in Kent County, said, “We’re just ready for not so many deer, as pretty as they are. It’s dangerous and costly.” She noted that the abundance of deer has even kept her grandchildren from playing in the backyard because of the amount of deer droppings.

Other neighbors, such as Kelsey Freybler, described the animals as “kind of part of the neighborhood,” adding, “We call them city deer. We’ve had them born in the backyard. I love seeing the deer, but they’re everywhere.” Freybler’s comments illustrate the community’s affection for the wildlife even as they acknowledge the safety risks.

Proposed benefits

Beyond reducing vehicle collisions, the city plans to process harvested deer locally and donate the venison to a food pantry, providing a charitable benefit to residents in need. This approach aligns with Walker’s broader commitment to community welfare and responsible wildlife management.

Mayor and council members are expected to review the proposal at the upcoming city council meeting, where they will consider input from law‑enforcement officials, wildlife experts, and the public. If approved, the hunt would be coordinated with the Michigan DNR and conducted under strict supervision to ensure safety for both hunters and residents.

Looking ahead

Walker’s location between the densely populated Grand Rapids area and the more rural townships of Alpine and Tallmadge makes deer‑human interactions more frequent than in many other parts of the state. City officials hope that a carefully managed hunt will restore a healthier balance between wildlife and the community, reducing accidents while preserving the natural character of the area.

The city’s plan reflects a pragmatic response to a measurable public‑safety issue, leveraging existing state permits and local cooperation to protect residents and maintain the quality of life that Walker families value.

Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.