HUNTING -- A proposed plan for managing mule deer in Washington will be presented by the Department of Fish and Wildlife during a public meeting at 7 p.m. tonight, Oct. 15, at Center Place Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Pl. in Spokane Valley.

“This plan will serve as the foundation for sustainably managing mule deer throughout their range in Washington,” said Jerry Nelson, the agency’s deer and elk section manager. “We encourage people to give us feedback on the management approaches we’ve identified.”

Comments will be accepted through Oct. 31.

The plan seeks to maintain stable deer populations while reducing damage caused by deer to crops and personal property, he said.

The department separates the state’s mule deer population into seven geographic management zones including the north Rocky Mountains, Okanogan highlands, Columbia Plateau, Blue Mountains, east slope Cascades, Naches and east Columbia Gorge.

“Having sufficient habitat for mule deer is always a concern – particularly after two tough fire seasons,” Nelson said. “Overall, though, our mule deer populations are generally in good shape.”

The plan, which can be updated in the future, will go to WDFW’s director for final approval later this year.