This is the time for science-based decisions, on both dealing with this year's crisis, and the long-term future of management for our Mule Deer. A 10+ year study on Mule Deer has just been finished in WA, and now the next step is to have a Mule Deer Initiative (MDI) written for our state. This record fire has just added to the already needed habitat improvement, and now we may need to see season adjustments due to the loss of cover and habitat. (reference the Trinity Ridge fires near Boise, ID and the following slaughter of trophy Mule Deer because a season was left open with no restrictions.)
The gentleman who will be writing the MDI for WA state is looking for any and all information that can help us manage in the long term. I will start up a new thread where we can all submit ideas and concerns, and I'll invite him to join the forum. But, let's keep it civil and based on science and actual observations, so he won't leave after being pummeled verbally. If we want to bash WDFW and it's practices (as we all do at times), let's leave it for another thread. Look forward to reading and conversing with you all on what we can do now and in the future to better manage our Mule Deer herds.