Factors Affecting Bowhunter Access in Suburban Areas

Access to private lands for hunting has been implicated as one factor affecting management of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations, especially in urban–suburban communities. Our objective was to identify factors influencing suburban landowner decisions to allow hunting and bowhunter willingness to comply with additional requirements imposed by landowners. We surveyed bowhunters to assess bowhunting skills, challenges of hunting in residential areas, and hunter perspectives on shooting proficiency. We also surveyed landowners to assess opinions about hunting and factors influencing their willingness to allow hunting. Both bowhunters and landowners were divided on the value of demonstrated shooting proficiency as a factor influencing landowner willingness to allow hunting. Ability to restrict hunting activity on their property and completion of a state-certified bowhunter safety course were important factors for all landowner groups. To maximize cooperation with landowners, hunters and hunt managers should assess and accommodate landowner needs. (JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 71(6):2102–2105; 2007) DOI: 10.2193/2007-059