Meridian Township’s Annual Deer Cull Numbers Since 2011
To some residents, Michigan's deer are adorable. That is, until they turn your hood into an insurance claim or treat your landscaping or crops like an all-inclusive buffet.
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Meridian Township's 16th annual Deer Management Program began October 1, 2026, and runs through January 1, 2027. In the past, the program has removed hundreds of deer while aiming to reduce car crashes, vegetation damage, and the number of hostas being treated like salad.
Why Meridian Township Manages Its Deer Population
The township's 2025-2026 report explains the goals: reduce deer-car collisions, protect vegetation, and help manage Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
Meridian Township recorded 151 deer-car crashes in 2025, with most occurring along Grand River Avenue and Jolly Road. That's a lot of commuters getting an unscheduled tour of a body shop.
Who Handles Meridian Township's Deer Harvest?
Working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), township staff assigned 58 approved volunteer archers to 42 township-owned properties and 27 approved private properties. Resident volunteers must pass background checks, an archery proficiency test, and required safety training.
Specially trained Meridian Township officers have handled separate January culls after parks closed. The township will skip the police cull in 2027, reducing pressure on deer and allowing them to redistribute.
What Meridian Township Residents Should Know
Parks and preserves remain open during the archery program. Participating properties have entrance signs, and neighboring residents received advance notice. Hunting participation requires township approval.
Venison donated through the program undergoes CWD testing. Last season, 5,482 pounds went to local food banks. That's a better contribution to the neighborhood than eating everybody's hostas.
RELATED: Michigan Bow Season Opened October 1 With Major Rule Changes
Scroll through the gallery below to see Meridian Township's deer harvest by year and how the program's numbers have changed.
Meridian Township Deer Management Program
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
Michigan's 2025 Car - Deer Accidents: Crashes Per County
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
