Deer Management


DEER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

As a conservation and recreation agency, the Park System acquires and manages land both for resource protection and recreation opportunities. Responsible land stewardship and resource protection require that wildlife and its habitat be managed for the benefit of all animals and plants. When the dominance or behavior of a particular species threatens the well being of others, active intervention is required. The growth and density of the State's deer population and its consumption of native plant materials that are vital to a healthy forest and as food and shelter to birds and small mammals constitute a problem requiring active intervention.

The Monmouth County Board of Recreation Commissioners accepted the 2023/2024 Deer Management Program Annual Report (link below) and approved the recommendations for continuation of the Deer Management Program for the 2024-2025 season on June 17, 2024.  

Questions and comments about the program should be directed to the Park System by telephone at 732-842-4000, ext. 4312; by email at wildlife@monmouthcountyparks.com; or by mail at Monmouth County Park System, Attn: Public Information Office, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738.

Permits for the 2024-2025 season will be available starting Wednesday, September 4, 2024.  

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Report an Antlerless Harvest to Earn-a-Buck  

Submit your antlerless harvest report to qualify for eligibility to harvest a buck in Monmouth County Parks Category 1 areas.  Harvest must be from a Monmouth County Park during the current program year (starts October 2). You must first report your harvest to NJDFW to receive state Confirmation Number.   Print the email confirmation you receive or be prepared to show it on your mobile device.  Automated emails will be delivered from forms-receipts-noreply@google.com – please check your junk mail folder if you do not receive it.  In the event you cannot complete the form online, call 732-842-4000, ext. 4365 for assistance Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (This process will be slower and may take several business days to complete).

 

Submit your MANDATORY End-of-Season Deer Harvest Report.

End-of-Season reports are required of all hunters as a condition of the permit.  All reports must be submitted by March 1; failure to submit will result in ineligibility for next year's season.  In the event you cannot complete the form online, call 732-842-4000, ext. 4365 or ext. 4242 for assistance Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.