BROOMALL–A discussion ensued about possibly allowing deer hunting in Marple Township at last week's work session meeting. According to 7th Ward Commissioner Dan Leefson, the suggestion of allowing deer hunting in the township was brought up recently when a dead deer was found by the entrance way of Langstoon developments on Election Day.

Leefson spoke on behalf of 7th ward residents concerned with the amount of deer in their neighborhood. In addition, according to Leefson, many cases of Lyme Disease have occurred in Langstoon–three or four of which included senior citizens.

"A lot of the communities around there, Langstoon and Paxon Chase, are loaded, loaded with deer. They were wondering if the township would ever consider maybe joining with the state in a bow hunt to thin out the herd of deer," said Leefson. "Maybe allowing them to hunt on the township-owned golf course by professionals, or people that do that."

Leefson said he told the concerned residents that he would bring it up to the commissioners, knowing that the topic may be controversial. 

Commissioner Joe Rufo also said that there has been a deer problem in the 1st ward as well.  

"We've had residents asking the same question," said Rufo. "From what I know now, I would be in favor of it actually."

The only issue about deer hunting that was brought to 5th Ward Commissioner John Longacre's attention was safety. According to Longacre, residents had previously complained about a neighbor shooting deer within 25 feet of their home. 

Leefson said if the board approves, hunters could possibly safely hunt in the woods in the back of Paxon Hollow Middle School, Langstoon development, Paxon Hollow Country Club, Green Bank Farm, or Natural Lands Trust.

Township Manager Anthony Hamaday said he will contact the Game Commission in the idea of possibly allowing deer hunting in certain areas of Marple Township.

What do you think? Should Marple allow deer hunting in the township?