Congratulations to Kimberley's deer committee for its quick and sensible suggestions to solve a serious problem in town. The deer are a clear and obvious problem. They are eating, living, breeding and giving birth in an urban area, a totally unnatural setting for them. They threaten people, injure and kill pets, cause thousands of dollars of property damage, and make many feel like it's unsafe to walk outside.

Why? Because we humans have created an imbalance in nature! Our urban deer exist in a vacuum created by us. We've eliminated all predators and any serious threats. Educating citizens about living in harmony with wildlife is a great idea, only if you agree that bears, wolves, coyotes & cougars should have the run of the town as well. After all, they're wildlife too, just not as cute as deer. Yes, the predators are dangerous to humans. So are the deer.

Though three options were presented by the deer committee, there is really only one which will work - a cull. It may be politically difficult, but it is the most effective way to deal with the deer. If something isn't done soon, it won't be long before someone is hurt or worse. I cringe at the sight of elementary students running a gauntlet of protective does and rutting bucks on their way to and from school.

Council must do the right thing for Kimberley. There's been enough talk -- something must be done, and soon.

Ian Ferrie

Kimberley