Patchogue, NY - The National Park Service has concluded the initial phase of deer removal operations at the William Floyd Estate, a unit of Fire Island National Seashore located on Long Island. As a result of the operation a total of 25 deer were culled with more than 500 pounds of venison donated to Island Harvest, a local food bank in Hauppauge, New York.
"This partnership ensures this local protein source can go to those in need." said Alex Romero, Superintendent of Fire Island National Seashore. Island Harvest is the largest hunger relief organization on Long Island, delivering food to a network of 570 food pantries, soup kitchens, and non-profits across Long Island.
The venison was harvested during the first year of deer removal operations conducted from February 26 through March 31, as part of an integrated deer management strategy approved in 2016. The goal of deer management at the seashore is to protect natural habitats and the historic landscape of the William Floyd Estate. More information on the plan may be found online.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
