WESTFIELD, NJ — Deer hunting at two Westfield parks was approved by the Town Council for the winter 2026-2027 season.
On Tuesday, the Council approved a resolution to allow Union County to conduct deer management activities in Brightwood Park and a small section of Tamaques Park.
The overpopulation of white-tailed deer in Brightwood Park and a small section of Tamaques Park identified by Union County has resulted in overbrowsing of native vegetation in this area, damage to greens and ornamental vegetation and created safety hazards for the public," according to the resolution.
The resolution states that the town believes it is in its best interests to use licensed crossbow hunters to manage the deer population in those areas.
Union County's Winter 2026-2027 Deer Management Control Program is expected to begin on or about Dec. 1, 2026, and end on or about Feb. 15, 2027.
The resolution also authorizes Westfield to execute a shared services agreement with the county for the services.
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