Starting today through Feb. 12, Union County's "deer-management program" begins Ash Brook Golf Course and Reservation.

Eight state-licensed hunters have volunteered to participate in the program and completed a marksmanship test and orientation course, according to a press release distributed by the county. The hunters, using shotguns at baited sites, will remove deer from various areas of the park, including the golf course. The venison that is processed from some of the harvested deer will be distributed to the needy and homeless through the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.

Weather permitting, hunters may be in the Ash Brook Reservation from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day except Sunday, the press release stated. Shooting, however, may only occur during daylight hours. 

Participation in this program is limited to the eight authorized hunters. Anyone else found hunting on the Ash Brook park property outside the terms of this program will be prosecuted, according to the press release. Citizens observing any illegal activity at any time are urged to immediately contact the Union County Police by calling 908-654-9800.

The Ash Brook Reservation and Golf Course will not be closed during the deer management program. Park users and neighbors are encouraged, however, to stay out of the wooded areas during that time period and to keep pets restrained on leashes.