Sharpshooters to Begin Deer Removal in Baltimore Parks

Controversial plan to cull over 270 white-tailed deer from city parks sparks resident backlash

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Starting on Monday afternoon, sharpshooters from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will begin operations to reduce the deer population in several Baltimore city parks, including Gwynns Falls-Leakin Park, Herring Run, and Druid Hill. The plan, which aims to remove over 270 white-tailed deer through April, has drawn criticism from many residents who oppose the lethal measures.

Why it matters

Deer overpopulation in urban areas can lead to increased vehicle collisions, damage to landscaping, and the spread of Lyme disease. However, the use of sharpshooters to cull deer has been a controversial approach, with some residents arguing for non-lethal population control methods instead.

The details

The deer removal operations will take place after park hours, with Gwynns Falls-Leakin Park being closed from 4 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Monday for the initial phase. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services will continue the project later this month at Herring Run and Druid Hill parks. City officials have stated that they will explore non-lethal measures for deer population management in the future.

  • The deer removal operations will begin on Monday, March 10, 2026.
  • The project will continue later this month at Herring Run and Druid Hill parks.

The players

U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services

The federal agency responsible for carrying out the deer removal operations in Baltimore's city parks.

Baltimore City Officials

The local government authorities who have approved the controversial deer culling plan, but have also stated they will explore non-lethal population control methods in the future.

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What’s next

City officials have stated that they will explore non-lethal measures for deer population management in the future.

The takeaway

This deer removal operation highlights the ongoing challenges cities face in balancing environmental concerns, public safety, and community values when it comes to managing urban wildlife populations. The controversy over lethal versus non-lethal control methods is likely to continue as local governments seek sustainable solutions.