"who should decide deer numbers?"
That is a good question.
Right now, I personally think the DNR has the right stance on deer numbers. They feel that most of the upper 2/3rd's of state are at or well below how many deer there "should be". What there "should be" is different among many groups. I agree with the DNR because they know the upper 2/3rd's are hammered for numbers and some pockets in south. They look at: carrying capacity, damage/accidents/crops, hunter satisfaction, etc.
Now, another group that has a different take.... Farm Bureau and their lobbyists working very very hard (with big $) with Brandstad and others. They have a different opinion. Truly, I think they'd love to see every deer dead (FB). They have a minority members (at FB) that cry out like crazy, want every last $ they can (think every deer gone will make them a little more $) and would love every single deer dead (which I strongly believe with reason). FB looks at NOTHING like carrying capacity, hunter enjoyment, herd health, etc- zero consideration.
So- who is right?? There's also folks in between the 2. Farm Bureau has huge $, voice & influence. Likely, a few hundred members creating this force, then getting FB behind it with others. I'd call them the minority for sure.
In this example, I agree with the DNR. They want & tried to stop this season. They have said "it has accomplised its goals, it's time to go back to the normal 3.5 month hunting season". I personally think this season exists whole heartedly from $, FB, politicians & special interests. There's also too many folks that would hunt all year round if "they were legally allowed to". Regulations, unfortunately, will be by far the strongest dictator of a healthy & well managed deer herd on average.
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