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2026-2027 Deer Management Program Professional Sharpshooting

Arlington County will conduct the second year of its Deer Management Program this winter as part of ongoing efforts to protect forest health and restore ecological balance.

Reducing deer overpopulation helps limit excessive browsing of native plants and young trees, allowing Arlington’s forests to regenerate and provide healthier habitat for wildlife.

2026-2027 Operations

Arlington County employs a hybrid approach to deer management that includes professional sharpshooting, fencing, repellants, and continued monitoring.

As part of this approach, professional sharpshooting operations are planned on select nights between December 2026 - February 2027. Specific operating nights will depend on weather and other conditions.

Operations will remain focused on select natural land parks along the following wildlife corridors including:

Potomac Corridor:    

What to Expect During Deer Management Operations

Professional sharpshooting operations will be:

• Conducted with parks secured and monitored by Arlington County Police and Park Rangers.
• Carried out during evening hours while parks are closed to the public.
• Conducted by trained professional sharpshooters firing downward from elevated tree stands.

Learn more about the Arlington’s Deer Management Program.