Southeast Michigan continues to see rising urban deer populations, leading to more vehicle accidents, property damage and higher risks tied to Lyme Disease and other illnesses. While many residents enjoy seeing deer, communities are working to balance those experiences with growing safety and ecological concerns.

 

More than five years ago, seven counties formed what is now the Southeast Michigan Urban Deer Coalition to coordinate responses to deer-related issues. Collaboration expanded in 2024 after statewide data showed the need for more localized information specific to Southeast Michigan.

 

The last regional deer survey was completed in 2022. This year, a new urban deer survey will launch in partnership with the Southeast Michigan Urban Deer Coalition and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG). The 2026 Deer Management Pulse of the Region Study (survey) will be open Sept. 1 through Nov. 1, 2026.

 

Take the survey: [survey link]                                Scan to Participate: