describe a consequence of overpopulation of deer the the forest areas of the northeastern united states
Answers
The deer population in the eastern United States is starting to take its toll on the healthy balance of forest ecosystems. No vertebrate species in the eastern United States has a more direct effect on the ecosystem than the white-tailed deer. According to the Nature Conservancy, many state deer populations are continuing to rise well beyond historical norms. So where is all the harm in a large population of deer? The problem starts with what the deer are grazing on.
Deer feeding on preferential plant species has changed the composition and structure of forests. The Nature Conservancy states that in their opinion, there is no greater threat to forests than overpopulation of deer. They also say that only invasive exotic insects and disease have been comparable in magnitude to the issues forests are facing when there are too many deer.The Nature Conservancy also says that cutting down the impact of deer’s plant diet is a key forest restoration strategy and in future it will become necessary in order to help maintain functioning forests in a climate that is already showing signs of warming. It is eye-opening to learn that overpopulation of deer actually has a more of a negative impact on forest ecosystems than the potential consequences of global warming.
Since deer management cannot be regulated at the federal level, the states have the right set their own regulations regarding wildlife. West Virginia specially has made efforts to reform these regulations because of the impact the deer population was having on the states timber production.
According to a report on the negative impacts of high deer population, published by the Office of Legislative Auditor in Charleston, West Virginia, the Division of Natural Resources has pursued a strategy increasing the hunting and fishing opportunities in West Virginia. The state of West Virginia has purchased land specifically dedicated to hunting and have also changed game management polices and increased deer population in the forests.