We welcome Defra’s recent deer impacts policy statement: managing the impacts of wild deer in England. This policy provides a clear, evidence-led framework to tackle the growing ecological, economic, and welfare challenges posed by rising deer populations.
Recent evidence shows that 33% of English woodlands are now negatively affected by deer, up from around a quarter in the early 2000s. Over-browsing damages trees, reduces natural regeneration, harms biodiversity and also impacts agriculture, public safety, and human and animal health.
The policy sets out a coordinated ten-year programme to:
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Strengthen the evidence base
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Provide grants, guidance, and skills support
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Review licensing and regulation
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Support sustainable venison markets
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Explore alternative tree protection methods
Delivering these ambitions will require collaboration across public, private, and third sectors, including The Deer Initiative. We thank Defra and the Forestry Commission for their dedication in delivering this important framework for sustainable, evidence-led deer management.
