Landowners' perceptions of white-tailed deer damage to crops in Tennessee

Authors

Dawn L. Johnson, University of Tennessee
J. Mark Fly, University of Tennessee
Lisa Muller, University of Tennessee

Date of this Version

October 2000

Abstract

We conducted a mail survey to determine Tennessee landowners' perceptions of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) damage to crops, their tolerance for damage and the effectiveness of damage control methods. Fifty-five percent of landowners had wildlife damage and 47% had deer damage. The majority had light or moderate damage. The majority of participants who had taken measures to prevent damage used hunting. State-issued depredation permits were rated the most effective method of controlling damage. Although most survey participants did not have substantial deer damage, landowners with serious deer damage problems may need further assistance.