Sewanee Deer Hunt 2019-20
The 2019 hunting season in Sewanee begins Sept. 28 and runs discontinuously until Jan. 11, 2020. This year marks the 17th year of organized hunting on the Domain after a resolution passed by the University trustees in 2001 requested that the deer herd be controlled.
The program has continually evolved in response to herd populations, community input, and ever-expanding datasets on the impacts of the herd on the ecological and human community.
The current hunt is organized around the 2016 White tailed deer management plan, http://www.sewanee.edu/media/offices/domain-manage.... This document outlines both the population and habitat goals, and the steps involved to reach those goals. In general, our goal is to bring the population down to what the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency feels is a sustainable population (approximately 25-30 deer per square mile) in a way that maximizes safety, minimizes impacts to the non-hunting members of our community, and maximizes student-led monitoring of the ecological and social impacts.
This year there are minor changes to the hunting areas. Areas on both sides of the water tower trail have been reopened to full season hunting after being limited for the last two years. As was the case last year, limited hunting will be allowed during Homecoming in zones away from heavy recreational activity. There will be no hunting on Breakfield Road during Homecoming to ensure ample hiking opportunities for guests. As always, all trails and firelanes remain open to recreational use during the season and hunters maintain a 100-yard safety zone around all recreational trails.
This invitation only hunt is open to all approved University faculty and staff, as well as their direct relatives. The hunt is also open to approved students. All participants must complete the Tennessee Bowhunter Safety Course (or other state equivalent), undergo a background check by the Sewanee Police Department, and participate in all mandatory meetings. All hunters are required to possess a valid TN hunting license and follow all TWRA rules and regulations at all times.
As in previous years, there may be a surplus of animals available for local families. If you are interested in picking up a field-dressed deer for processing, please email