FARGO (KFGO) – It’s still a work in progress, but it appears Fargo’s urban archery hunting program on city and park land along the river will be a “go” this fall.
Last November, city commissioners tabled a decision to end the urban hunt and set up another committee to look for other options to control the deer population.
This week, city commissioners approved the 2022-23 season contingent on approval of a revised program by the Park District, Sandhill Archery Club, and the State Game & Fish Department which supervises the hunt.
“The city’s role would be somewhat limited,” Assistant City Administrator Mike Redlinger said. “There’s a question about websites. For example, would we advertise the program? Would we allow for enrollment in the program to occur here, or would the club take that on? The Park District would be consenting to this activity occurring on their property, and then the Sandhills Club would be – we hope – the entity in charge of operating it.”
Park District Executive Director Dave Leker said he believes the program has been a success.
“We’re doing it to keep the deer population healthy and under control within the city limits,” Leker said. “The archery clubs are willing to help out. Everybody needs to work together to make this program work and be as safe as possible.”
Some adjustments have been recommended. That includes the removal of three nature parks – Orchard Glen, Forest River, and Heritage Hills from the program because the sites are outside city limits.
The park board will make a decision at its meeting June 14.
The recommendation to end the bow hunt was first brought up in August by Police Chief Dave Zibolski who said the Wildlife Management Program was a public safety issue and that it was time-consuming for police who have managed it.
If the program is approved the police department would no longer be involved.
