Highland residents press council for stronger deer‑management program; council asks staff to explore options and return by spring

Residents whose yards and fruit trees have been repeatedly damaged by deer urged Highland City Council on Tuesday to pursue a mix of improved trapping, targeted culling and limited fence exemptions to protect gardens and orchards.

Lou Anne West and other residents described persistent deer damage. “We’ve had up to five bucks and eight does in our yard that we’ve had to chase out,” West said. “They’ve eaten green beans, strawberries, pumpkins, pears, peaches … even mint.” Her husband, Steve West, added that the city’s trap program scheduled August–October misses the main garden season and recommended shifting timing if the program is continued.

Staff described the current program as reactionary: staff will place DWR‑approved traps only on private property when requested by a resident and after a signed waiver. Highland previously contracted with an outside vendor (Humphreys) for a more proactive program that included bow‑hunts and more extensive trapping. Staff said Humphreys…