JEKYLL ISLAND, Ga. (AP) The governing board for Jekyll Island has approved using government sharpshooters to thin the deer population on the island state park. <br />
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The Jekyll Island Authority board voted unanimously Monday to move toward controlled killing of some of the white-tailed deer on the island after three years of grappling with the issue. Surveys going back to 2011 have shown the park has far too many deer to support a healthy population. <br />
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Residents who oppose the plan say any deer killing would clash with the wildlife conservation mission of Jekyll Island, which has a sea turtle hospital and signs urging drivers to watch for terrapins crossing the road. <br />
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Officials estimate Jekyll Island would pay $10,000 to hire U.S. Department of Agriculture sharpshooters to kill 80 deer. Details must be approved later.
