As a resident of Southold, I've seen firsthand the dramatic rise in tick-borne illnesses, a crisis that has rapidly spread westward across Long Island. Our local deer population has surged out of control, directly contributing to the increasing prevalence of these diseases. This overpopulation not only poses a significant public health risk, but it also leads to environmental imbalances, and property damage. The beautiful landscapes of the North Fork are at risk.

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, deer overpopulation can drastically impact ecosystem dynamics. The excessive deer population is linked to a reduction in plant biodiversity and can lead to the loss of native plant species, creating a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem and reducing the habitat available for other wildlife. A single deer can consume up to 7 pounds of vegetation a day, causing significant damage to local vegetation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease, have been steadily increasing in the Northeast. In Suffolk County alone, there have been thousands of cases reported annually. Each of these cases represents a person whose life has been disrupted by these preventable diseases.

We need immediate action from the Southold Town Board, the deer Management Committee, and the New York State authorities to implement an effective deer management program. This should include humane population control methods such as 4 poster deer feeding stations for tick management and, if necessary, regulated aggressive culling. Additionally, increased public awareness campaigns about tick prevention and the importance of the ecological balance will be crucial.

I urge everyone who shares the joys and concerns of living in this beautiful community to join me in demanding that our local and state leaders take swift and decisive action.

Sign this petition to protect our health, our environment, and our community's future.  I’ll be filing this petition and more info on the success of the Noyak and shelter islands’ use of the 4 poster deer feeding stations with the Southold Town Clerk for inclusion to a future Southold Town Board Meeting.