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Drone survey finds 53 deer at Origin Park; council told a deer‑reduction plan will not move forward
Summary
Hoosier South Drone Services reported a March 8 survey that observed 53 deer at Origin Park and described the herd as healthy and well distributed; council members said River Heritage will not pursue an active deer‑reduction initiative at this time.
A volunteer drone herd survey at Origin Park found 53 deer and no clear signs of malnourishment or overbrowsing, presenters told the council during a work‑session briefing.
Savannah (Hoosier South Drone Services) said the team used thermal and 4K imaging on a planned flight path and "observed 53 deer total. All of the deer appeared to be very healthy. None of them appeared to be malnourished." The presenters said they also observed three coyotes and that vegetation in the park appeared plentiful. Mac Spainhour, who introduced the team, said he was impressed by the thermal imaging and the accuracy of the survey.
Council members discussed that herd counts vary seasonally and by survey method; one council member summarized a recent conversation with River Heritage and said the park will not move forward with a deer‑reduction initiative at this time, and that staff will continue dialogue with stakeholders. Presenters offered to provide their video and print materials to the council for further review.
