White-tailed deer are an integral part of Ontario's biodiversity. Deer are a very important part of their ecosystems, as their browsing influences the development of the forest; and they are a significant food source for large predators and many scavengers.
White-tailed deer are important to people as well – whether it's to see one in the wild, for food or hides, or just to know they are there. Hunters from across Ontario and North America seek them every fall. Hunting and viewing deer generates millions of dollars in economic activity within Ontario each year.
White-tailed deer management is important to ensure a healthy deer population for all these reasons.