Changes to DNR Captive Deer Policies

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Board will be considering several changes to the state’s captive deer policies during their meeting Wednesday.

DNR was directed by Governor Walker to review captive deer policies following the infamous incident at a Kenosha shelter earlier this summer. 

The DNR board is considering changing several internal polices about captive deer procedures.  One change would allow DNR workers to place captive deer back into the wild, as long as they do not pose health risks to the deer population, other wildlife, and the general public. 

A proposed change to state law would allow people to keep wild deer with a fine and a veterinarian determination about the deer’s  health.  This change to state law requires approval by the legislature and a signature by Governor Walker.

Click here, for the DNR Board’s September 24 - 25, 2013 agenda and meeting materials