Final controlled deer hunt set to close down Ridley Creek State Park

Ridley Creek State Park and the section of Gradyville Road that passes through the park will be shut down on Dec. 11 for everyone except those participating in a controlled deer hunt.

The hunt is the second of the season; the first occurred on Dec. 4. The goal is to “maintain balance within the park’s ecosystem,” according to Upper Providence Township’s website. Overpopulation of deer has led to damage of shrubbery, wildflowers and other vegetation, which reduces the diversity of plant and animal species in the area, the township said.

Park Rangers and safety zones will be in place during the hunts, and only shotguns with “00” buckshot will be permitted.

Aside from the controlled hunts, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources noted that about 1,200 acres of Ridley Creek State Park are open to archery hunting for deer during established hunting seasons. Firearms and archery equipment used for hunting may be uncased and ready for use only in authorized hunting areas during hunting seasons.