UPDATE: California Fish and Game Commission Address Deer Population and Mountain Lion Threat

In a very contentious meeting with the California Fish and Game Commission, local residents from Inyo and Mono counties voiced their frustrations over what they perceive as biased presentations regarding the local deer populations. The meeting, which was held last Thursday in Mammoth, saw seventeen community members lining up to speak out against what they claim were outdated statistics favoring higher deer numbers.

“The CDFW presentation skewed the data, neglecting recent estimates from the past two years,” remarked one resident, highlighting a sentiment shared by many at the meeting. Due to time constraints, speakers were limited to just one minute each, a decision that left attendees feeling shortchanged, frustrated, and left out.

However, amidst the evening’s tension, some residents managed to make their voices heard. “Danny Macintosh and I were fortunate to secure three minutes each,” noted one attendee who spoke with us. “We made the most of our time.”

Following the meeting, doubts seemed to linger among attendees about the impact of their testimonies. Yet, there was a glimmer of hope when CDFW Director Chuck Bonham and Commissioner Darius Anderson approached one resident with an unexpected proposition.

“They asked if I would join a local working group,” the resident said, “aimed at collaborating with CDFW staff on solutions for deer and bighorn recovery. Additionally, the group aims to clarify regulations concerning lion depredation.”

Despite initial skepticism and hesitation, the invitation to contribute to local wildlife management initiatives offered a potential silver lining for concerned residents. “Our deer and bighorn populations are in critical condition,” expressed another attendee at the meeting. “Swift action is imperative.”

As the community awaits further developments, the outcome of this local initiative could prove pivotal in shaping future wildlife conservation efforts in the region. Finally, a resident told Eastern Sierra Now, “It remains to be seen whether CDFW holds up their offer.”

Tanner Rush