Last year 200 deer were processed here on the Shore. The number was down slightly from the year before mirroring a decrease in deer harvested by hunters last season. The goal this year is 250 deer to be processed. The program averages about 35 pounds of processed deer per deer donated and costs $45 per deer to process.
The program last year again received a very generous donation of $5000.00 from the aquaculture industry in the Willis Wharf area. This helped cover processing costs and to replace the refrigeration unit in one of the portable trailers that had finally failed after many years of service.
The processors this year will be Brent Powell in Wachapreague (787-7107) and Matt Killmon of Bucktrails (787-1351) in Onancock. There will be refrigerated collection trailers at the Food Bank in Tasley and B&B Market on highway 13 in Machipongo. Please note this year that the trailers and processors will be operating only during muzzle loader and general firearm seasons, NOT during archery season.
The local chapter is soliciting financial contributions to cover processing costs. There is currently some matching money available depending on the source of the donation, please inquire. The program is 501-c-3 program and donations are deductible. The agency may also be designated with the local United Way.
Deer donations are strongly encouraged and will be accepted once the processors open at the end of October. All deer must be properly registered and field dressed.
For any questions, to volunteer to help or to arrange a speaker for a group please contact the local director, Worth Saunders, at 757-710-0049 or aes3ptocs@yahoo.com. The mailing address is PO Box 1702 Parksley VA 23421.
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