A contentious initiative by Parks Canada to eradicate invasive European fallow deer from British Columbia’s Sidney Island is facing criticism. The first phase of the plan, conducted by three marksmen from the U.S. and New Zealand on a helicopter, resulted in the killing of 84 deer between Dec. 1 and Dec. 11.

However, the cost of the operation surpassed $800,000, placing the cost per deer at around $10,000. Parks Canada considers the eradication initiative to be essential, as the invasive population has severely impacted the island’s ecosystem. Authorities verified that approximately 20 per cent of the culled animals were native black-tailed deer.

Opponents of the program argue against the cost, highlighting the islanders’ success with privately organized ground-based hunting efforts. Locals claim to have removed more than 1,800 deer over the past decade at no cost to taxpayers.

Speaking with Global News, conservationist Ian McAllister said, “It’s mind-boggling to think we have to first hire out a New Zealand-based company come to Canada to shoot deer on a tiny little gulf island.”

However, Parks Canada contends the fallow deer’s rapid breeding capabilities necessitate aggressive eradication measures. Kate Humble, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve superintendent, told Global News, “Every time the fallow deer population has been brought down in number, it has rebounded a few years later. The real objective of this project is the long-term recovery of the forest ecosystem on Sidney Island which has been significantly damaged and degraded due to over-browsing.”

The plan has garnered support from the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, the Tsawout, and Pauquachin First Nations. Officials announced the marksmen, in collaboration with Parks Canada and First Nations, salvaged roughly 800 kg (1,763 lb) of meat, as well as hides and other usable materials. The recovered animal products were distributed to W̱SÁNEĆ communities.

The second phase of the plan, projected to begin in fall 2024, will involve collaboration with Sydney Island locals. Parks Canada is currently planning to send hunters in on ground.