Record of Decision for the White-tailed Deer Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Approved
The National Park Service has approved the Record of Decision (ROD) for the Final White-tailed Deer Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (Final plan/EIS) at Valley Forge National Historical Park. The deer management plan addresses browsing by an increasing number of deer over the past two decades. Excessive browsing has led to the inability of forests to regenerate into the future and the loss of habitat for other animal species. Mike Caldwell, Superintendent, said “We look forward to a future that provides high quality habitat for all wildlife species at Valley Forge.”
The decision selects Alternative D, Combined Lethal and Nonlethal Actions, which was identified as the NPS preferred alternative in the Final plan/EIS. This alternative is considered to best meet the objectives of the plan to develop a deer management strategy that supports long-term protection, preservation, and restoration of native vegetation and other natural and cultural resources. The secondary purpose of this plan/EIS is to develop a chronic wasting disease (CWD) response strategy that is fully integrated with deer management and that will reduce the probability of occurrence, promote early detection, and reduce the probability of spread of CWD. Caldwell noted, “After many years of study and public involvement, we have an effective, science-based plan that will help us preserve the park’s environment for future generations.”
An electronic version of the Record of Decision and Final plan/EIS may be obtained through the Planning, Environment and Public Comment website at http://www.parkplanning.nps.gov. The Final plan/EIS and ROD are also available at the Chester County Public Library, Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library, Phoenixville Public Library, Tredyffrin Township Public Library, Lower Providence Community Library, and Upper Merion Township Library. A hard copy (limited availability) or CD of the Final plan/EIS or ROD may be obtained from: Superintendent, Valley Forge NHP, 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania 19406.
For further information please contact Kristina Heister, Natural Resources Manager, Valley Forge NHP, 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania 19406 or kristina_heister@nps.gov.
