formats

4-Poster Study Map

Study Overview

Study Goals

The primary objective on Shelter Island was to evaluate the effect of 4-Poster devices on tick numbers, deer density, deer behavior, and non-target wildlife.  The village of North Haven was used as a “control site” to compare tick numbers, deer density, and deer behavior in the absence of 4-Posters.  On Shelter Island, we examined deer use of 4-Poster devices and the impact device placement had on deer-vehicle collisions, as well as on the surrounding vegetation.  In addition, we estimated both deer and tick densities and evaluated the ability of 4-Poster technology to reduce tick abundance.  Devices were also being deployed on western Fire Island in an attempt to reduce tick numbers there as well.

Study Areas

Shelter Island and North Haven are located on the eastern end of Long Island, NY.

 

Shelter Island was divided into two study areas, Area A (South) is outlined in blue, and Area B (North) in green.  The control site outlined in yellow is all of North Haven.

Overview of Technical Concerns

 

This study was conducted to address several issues to help inform a decision on Tickicide registration and whether to allow use of the 4-Poster Device in New York State.  The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and NYS Department of Health had three main concerns:

I. Human and wildlife-associated risks due to changes in deer movement and behavior resulting from deployment of 4-Posters, including:

  • potential impact on vegetation near the deployed stations in both natural and residential settings
  • possible increase in deer road crossings leading to more vehicle collisions
  • increased contact and potential disease transmission among deer
  • changes in deer mortality due to feeding or reduced tick pressure
  • use of 4-Poster stations by non-target wildlife.

II.  Possible increased human exposure to permethrin via handling and consuming treated deer.

  • Dermal exposure via the deer hide during handling, e.g. by hunters
  • Possibility of permethrin accumulation in deer tissues that would be ingested by consumers of venison

III. Efficacy of the 4-Poster system in controlling tick densities in human inhabited and visited areas.

  • Note: New York State restrictions do not allow placement of 4-Poster devices within 300ft. of a public highway, dwelling, multiple dwelling, playground or other place where children may be present without adult supervision. Exceptions (other than to placement near public highways) are permitted with prior NYSDEC approval and providing devices are fenced