Save the deer

Although I live in Jackson, I have read virtually every article on the deer problem in Cape Girardeau. Although I love the deer, I can relate to the problem. When I lived on the farm, I had a pet llama. He loved to jump the fence and graze in the yard. I didn't mind until he trimmed my prized azalea down to the ground. No more llama after that, but I did not shoot him. I sold him.

In Cape Girardeau, I wonder if anyone ever took time to consider the percentage of complaints compared to the population. I think it would be interesting to divide the number of complaints by the population. I would guess it to be less than 1 percent.

I was impressed with wildlife biologist Joel Porath's report on how the problem had been handled by various towns in Missouri. The most interesting were Town and Country and Independence. One Town and Country official said "they did not like hunters just roaming around with guns and bows." The best solution seemed to be from Mayor Don Reimal at Independence. He said their ordinance only allowed hunting on property 15 acres or more and hunters were required to have a license and written permission from the owner with them while hunting.

This sounds like the most logical ordinance I have heard. Hopefully this will get published in time for the final decision by the Cape Girardeau City Council.

JACK H. KNOWLAN SR., Jackson