February 17, 2023

In addition to public considerations, wildlife managers evaluate information on mule deer population size, trends and health collected through aerial surveys, ground-based spotlight surveys, spring deer recruitment surveys, hunter harvest surveys and the rate of chronic wasting disease prevalence to inform harvest management strategies. Collectively, this information is reviewed within the Game Management Plan framework to guide management decisions. 

Cold temperatures and high snow depths in recent years have challenged mule deer populations in many areas of the province to obtain an adequate food supply and shelter from the elements. As mule deer seek alternate sources of food and shelter, we are aware of increases in the reporting of nuisance deer in some populated areas. The concerns of rural municipalities will be given careful consideration in the upcoming season setting process. 

Additionally, the ministry is in the process of developing a long-term management plan for mule deer in Saskatchewan. In this plan, additional mule deer hunting opportunities to stabilize population growth, address rural resident concerns and limit the spread of chronic wasting disease will being considered. The ministry will engage the Wildlife Advisory Committee – which SARM is a member of -for input on the development of the management plan and related harvest management strategies. 

The Honourable Dana Skoropad – Minister of Environment, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment