Clintonville Residents Call for Deer Removal, Rest of Columbus Less Enthusiastic

Survey reveals stark divide in attitudes toward deer population between Clintonville and other Columbus neighborhoods.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 8:31am

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A recent survey conducted by the city of Columbus found that residents of the Clintonville neighborhood are much more supportive of measures to reduce the local deer population compared to the rest of the city. While 70% of respondents reported an increase in deer sightings over the past three years, Clintonville stood out with 79% of residents favoring a decrease in the deer population, compared to just 52% citywide.

Why it matters

The survey results highlight a growing divide in how different Columbus neighborhoods view the presence of deer. Clintonville, which has seen a higher concentration of deer, is more eager to take action to manage the population, while other areas are more divided on the issue. This could lead to challenges for city officials in determining the best approach to deer management that balances the concerns of various communities.

The details

The survey, conducted by Ohio State University students, found that 63% of Clintonville respondents reported seeing deer daily in 2025, compared to just 26% of participants outside the neighborhood. Over 72% of Clintonville residents reported deer-related property damage, vehicle accidents or injury in the past three years, compared to 45% citywide. Clintonville residents were also more likely to have incurred financial costs due to deer-related issues, with 68% reporting expenses of $100 or more, compared to 39% in other neighborhoods.

  • The city of Columbus conducted the voluntary public survey in the summer of 2025.
  • Columbus City Council and the Department of Neighborhoods will host a "community conversation" on Feb. 18, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss deer management approaches.

The players

Columbus City Council

The governing body of the city of Columbus that will be hosting a community meeting to discuss deer management options.

Department of Neighborhoods

A city department that will be co-hosting the community meeting on deer management with Columbus City Council.

Ohio State University School of Environment and Natural Resources

The academic institution that conducted the capstone project to create the report on the city's deer survey results.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

Columbus City Council and the Department of Neighborhoods will host a "community conversation" on Feb. 18, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at Whetstone Community Center in Clintonville to explore various deer-management approaches with relevant experts.

The takeaway

The stark divide in attitudes toward deer between Clintonville and the rest of Columbus highlights the challenges city officials will face in determining an appropriate deer management strategy that addresses the concerns of all residents. Finding a balanced approach that considers the diverse perspectives across the city will be crucial.