PITTSBURGH, PA — Pittsburgh is expanding its deer management program for the 2026-27 season, adding Sheraden Park and the Spring Hill/Garden Greenway to the city’s controlled archery program.
The joint effort between the city and the U.S. Department of Agriculture is intended to manage an overpopulation of white-tailed deer in city parks. Officials cited increased vehicle collisions, damage to native plants and deer losing their natural fear of people as consequences of an unchecked population.
Controlled archery also will continue in Frick, Schenley, Highland, Riverview, Emerald View, Hays Woods, McKinley and South Side parks, along with the Seldom Seen and Hazelwood greenways. Contracted USDA officials are scheduled to conduct targeted harvesting in Hays Woods, Seldom Seen and Highland Park during winter and spring 2027.
The city selected 65 archers from southwestern Pennsylvania after background checks, wildlife-violation reviews and archery accuracy tests. This season also expands a mentorship program coordinated with the Pennsylvania Game Commission for youth and adult hunters.
Archery dates run from Sept. 19 through Dec. 13 and from Dec. 26 through Jan. 24, generally excluding Sundays except approved mentor hunts in Hays Woods. Notice signs have been posted in participating parks and greenways. Visitors are encouraged to remain on established trails and keep dogs leashed.
Official source: City of Pittsburgh Public Safety — Deer Management Program Restarts With Expansion
Photo: A white-tailed deer is shown at Allegheny Cemetery in Pittsburgh in a representative file photo. Cbaile19/Wikimedia Commons (CC0).
The Pittsburgh Times
editorial@thepittsburghtimes.com
Pittsburgh, PA
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