Wildlife Commission to consider easing of deer farming rules

DUBLIN, NC (AP) — The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is holding nine public hearings this month on proposed rule changes, the most controversial of which is proposed regulations for holding deer in captivity.

The hearings begin Tuesday in Bladen County and continue until Jan. 22, when a meeting is set for Smithfield.

The News & Observer of Raleigh had reported that farmers are pushing for rules that allow them to expand because they breed deer to sell as game and for their meat and antlers. Hunters and wildlife conservationists fear the growth of deer farms puts the state’s wildlife at risk for a deadly disease.

The comment period for the temporary rules on deer ends Jan. 23. The commission will consider whether to adopt the temporary rules at its Jan. 29 meeting.

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