10/14/2026
Beginning today, Columbia Association (CA) will conduct five controlled archery hunts in select areas of Columbia to help address the overpopulation of white-tailed deer and protect the health of our natural areas.
The hunts are the first step in a measured approach to managing Columbia’s deer population. The plan follows extensive community feedback and evaluation of different management strategies. CA’s program will work in conjunction with Howard County’s deer management program to better control the deer population in our community. The goal is to bring the deer population to a healthier, more sustainable level and reduce damage to the local ecosystem.
The controlled archery hunts will be at designated locations in Kings Contrivance, Owen Brown, River Hill and Town Center on the following dates:
Wednesday, October 14
Tuesday, October 27
Friday, November 6
Friday, November 20
Wednesday, December 16
Community safety is a top priority. Hunters will only operate in designated areas that meet legal requirements and CA safety standards. State regulations require a 150-yard (450 feet) safety zone from all occupied dwellings, and hunters will be at least 100 yards (300 feet) from CA pathways. Additionally, hunters will shoot from designated tree stands and may only take shots within 25 yards to ensure maximum accuracy.
To support safety and awareness:
Signs will be placed in affected areas before hunting begins and on hunt days
CA staff will be on-site on nearby pathways during hunt times
Residents will receive advance notice about affected locations
Email [email protected] for more information.
