Can we reduce Key deer-car collisions?

It’s well known that getting hit by a car or truck is by far the most prevalent cause of death and injury for the Key deer. Recently there has been a notable spike in such incidents, with 6 known deaths just between June 16^th and 24^th. So is there anything that can be done to reduce the collisions?

SOKD has worked for years on this issue, with varying degrees of success. The US-1 highway corridor is regulated by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), while all non-private side roads are regulated by Monroe County’s Engineering Dept. SOKD has worked with both departments as well as with the Monroe County Sheriff Office (MCSO). One success story is that, after several years of convincing, in November 2020 we succeeded in having FDOT install deer warning signs along US-1 on islands west of Big Pine Key down to Sugarloaf, that have important Key deer subpopulations. Without the signs most tourists and even some residents were not even aware they stand a chance to hit a deer along that stretch of highway. Using historical data, SOKD had also identified deer collision hot-spots along US-1. On Big Pine Key, many of the recent deer strikes have occurred in two locations: along the curve in front of St. Peter Church on the island’s eastern side, and around Ship’s Way intersection in the west. SOKD placed sandwich board signs along the road perimeter, warning motorists of frequent deer crossings in those areas. Recently, however, FDOT removed the signs and informed us that we are not allowed to put them on their easement. We are in early discussions about having FDOT install additional permanent flashing signs in those areas, but judging from the past, that will take time.

Of course, no signs will help reduce Key deer kills by drivers who don’t pay attention, drive recklessly, and speed. SOKD has collaborated with MCSO in the past to set up extra speeding patrols and decoy police cars in the collision hot spots, but such resources are limited. I get regularly contacted by residents concerned about the frequent speeding not just on US-1 but the side roads as well. One obvious way to reduce speeding is with speed bumps. Logically, FDOT will not allow speed bumps on US-1, and SOKD’s requests to have additional speed bumps in places Long Beach Rd. (supported by signatures from the majority of residents) has so far been negated by the County. But there are alternate options that could be implemented: transverse rumble strips could be installed on US-1 and side roads, and while not as dramatic as speed bumps, they have been shown to be effective in drawing drivers’ attention to their speed. Stationary radar signs that show the approaching vehicle’s speed (like the one when driving into Marathon from the 7-Mile Bridge) are another proven option. SOKD continues its efforts to implement such options and reduce vehicle-related deaths and suffering for the Key deer. However, the most will get done with a community voice – we need your help and vocal support. The attached poster lists direct phone numbers to offices that have the decision-making power to enact the various speed-calming options. Please, help SOKD by giving them a call and letting them know the community’s concerns and requests.