MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The Meridian Township's Deer Management Program aims to reduce the number of car-deer collisions and lower the deer population in the township. So far this year, 60 deer have been harvested.

Parks & Land Coordinator Jane Greenway said they don't set a goal for how many deer they would like to see harvested, but they're happy to see the hunters have already reached last years number of 60 total deer harvested.

Although the hunters enjoy being a part of the program, Greenway said they also understand not everyone in Meridian Township agrees with the deer management program. "We're trying to make you know this whole process as humane and as respectful as possible for everyone cause we understand that not everyone supports this kind of an effort," Greenway said.

Residents are still advised not to feed the deer not matter how they feel about the program.

Since the discovery of Chronic Wasting Disease back in 2015 in Meridian Township, the rules of hunting deer within the township have changed. The Department of Natural Resources issued a "no baiting" rule until they get CWD under control.

Hunters are also required to have deer checked for CWD before they can be taken for processing