The City of Bloomington recently passed a deer feeding ban to reduce human-deer conflict.
Virgil Sauder, director of animal care and control at the City of Bloomington, said if you see someone feeding a deer, have a conversation with them to understand their perspective before doing anything.
Read more: Bloomington City Council approves deer feeding ban
“Sometimes they might not be aware that that ordinance has changed and gone into effect, or just not aware of the real issues and concerns people have with the feeding of the deer and the conflicts they cause,” Sauder said.
Sauder said there is technically no mandate to report deer feeding and no punishment if it is not reported. He does encourage people to report feeding to reduce conflict anyway by calling 812-349-3492. You can also report it on their website. An investigation will then ensue.
Read more: Deer count not plausibe for Bloomington following deer feeding ban, solutions limited
“If the officer is trying to work with them, if they weren't not aware of the ordinance, they'll give them a few days to clean everything up and stop and if they continue, then a fine would be levied,” Sauder said.
There is a fine of $50 for the first offense. The second and subsequent offenses within 12 months of the first offense results in a $100 fine.