Column: Changes to deer hunt necessary to control herd

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • September 7, 2026

Maine hunters, and citizens in general, should benefit from a couple rule changes this year designed to increase both hunting opportunities and the Pine Tree State’s deer harvest. These changes illustrate, and in some cases exacerbate, the challenges of effectively managing wildlife populations. The first is yet another increase in antlerless deer permits. The second is a significant expansion of the geographic area included in the expanded archery season. Research has shown that hunting is the most effective method to control deer populations. If you’re tired of the deer eating your azaleas and hostas, making your morning and evening commute a perilous proposition or promoting the proliferation of tick-borne illnesses, consider letting hunters onto your property. ~ Bob Humphrey