Virginia Deer Management Plan

Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

Public attention to white-tailed deer is arguably greater than the interest exhibited for any other species of wildlife in Virginia. As Virginia's most popular game species, implications of white-tailed deer range from welcome public viewing opportunities to serious damage and public safety concerns. The divergent citizen interests associated with white-tailed deer provide unique management challenges for the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF). The VDGIF, under the direction of a Governor-appointed Board of Directors, is specifically charged by the General Assembly with the management of the state's wildlife resources. Although many legal mandates of the Board and the Department are expressed throughout the Code of Virginia, the agency's primary functions include management of the wildlife resources (§29.1-103), public education (§29.1-109), law enforcement (§29.1-109), and regulatory powers (§29.1-501). In 1990, the Board of Directors adopted mission statements to help clarify and interpret the role of the VDGIF in managing the wildlife resources of Virginia. They are: To manage Virginia's wildlife and inland fisheries to maintain optimum populations of all species to serve the needs of the Commonwealth; To provide opportunity for all to enjoy wildlife, inland fish, boating, and related outdoor recreation; and To promote safety for persons and property in connection with boating, hunting, and fishing.