The overpopulated deer herd at Oak Mountain State Park has caused habitat degradation, deterioration in herd health, and too many deer-car collisions. A controlled hunt was held in January 2004 as the first step in bringing the park’s deer population under control. Data collected during that hunt verified the poor condition of the deer, and that the efforts to reduce the herd should be continued.

Two bow hunts are being held this season –  December 18-19, 2007 and January 8-9, 2008. Hunters will be given the opportunity to register online for the hunts. A computer-generated selection process will choose 80 hunters and 80 alternates for the regulated hunts. 

These are not trophy hunts. The purpose is to continue to reduce the number of deer within Oak Mountain State Park.  Participating hunters are helping fulfill an important wildlife management objective.

The vast majority of Alabamians support regulated hunting as the most effective wildlife management tool for controlling deer populations. We appreciate the overwhelming support from citizens that was shown during the previous hunts.

Our long-range goal is to restore Oak Mountain State Park's natural habitat. With reduced deer numbers, the vegetative impact of browsing will be lowered, allowing new growth of wildflowers, trees and shrubs. The improved habitat will also benefit other wildlife such as small mammals and birds.

Restoration of Oak Mountain State Park’s natural beauty will benefit plant life, wildlife, and every park visitor.