Last week, the Minnesota Senate passed an environment policy bill containing several policy items heard in the Environment Committees this session.

The bill included language chief-authored by Senator Mike Goggin (R-Red Wing) which removes the Antler Point Restriction (APR). The APR has allowed the population of deer to grow substantially in certain parts of the state, especially in southeastern Minnesota. This increased population has resulted in more damage to vehicles and farmer’s crops. Most notably though, the growth in numbers is contributing to the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).

“The growing population of deer is impacting our farmer’s livelihood, public safety, and the health of the animals,” said Senator Mike Goggin. “Particularly in our district, something has to be done. By eliminating the APR, we can minimize this population and get it back under control while reducing CWD.”