Deer Feeding Stations Forum

The stations treat deer for ticks with a pesticide in order to reduce the ticks’ overall number

Feb. 12, 2015

Joanne Pilgrim

With an application in the works by East Hampton Town for a state permit to install four-poster deer feeding stations, the East Hampton Deer and Tick Management Foundation will hold a forum on the stations on Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Babette’s restaurant in East Hampton. Refreshments will be served.

The stations treat deer for ticks with a pesticide in order to reduce the ticks’ overall number. They have been used successfully on Shelter Island for the last six years, according to Cornell University and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Mike Scheibel, a wildlife biologist, will outline their use at the event.

State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr., who is expected to attend, has, along with Senator Kenneth P. LaValle, made the five East End towns eligible for up to $100,000 in state funds earmarked for four-poster stations. Town Supervisor Larry Cantwell will also attend.

The foundation has proposed a partnership between East Hampton Town and the state for a pilot program this spring on land in Northwest Woods and Springs and is seeking private donations to help get it going. The stations would be purchased with public funds but donations would be needed to cover the approximately $3,500 a year it would cost to stock them with corn, provide the pesticides, and maintain each unit.

Although the stations can be placed on public lands, private property owners or associations with control of tracts of at least 40 acres — the minimum size needed to establish a deer feeding and treatment program, according to the D.E.C. — can request a feeding station on their land provided they are willing to underwrite the operating costs. Possible locations for this year’s four-poster program can be added to the town’s application for another few weeks.

Reservations are required to attend the Sunday event, as seating is limited. They can be made by calling Randy Parsons at 329-8239. More information can be obtained by writing the foundation, c/o Randy Parsons, P.O. Box 480, East Hampton 11937.