New mule deer survey improves population data

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission employees used a bird's-eye view of the rugged high country of the Pine Ridge last month to obtain more accurate deer population data for northwestern Nebraska.

During five days in early February, Game and Parks staff members boarded a contracted helicopter and surveyed eight areas of the Pine Ridge Management Unit, which encompasses 429 square miles. The project marked first time Game and Parks has used a helicopter to survey mule deer.

In all, staff members counted 862 mule deer – 68 bucks, 477 does and 317 fawns.

Todd Nordeen, northwestern district wildlif...