Jeremy Hurst, big-game biologist for the state Department of Environmental Conservation, recently announced that two public hearings will be held in Western New York as officials begin to prioritize issues in possible changes to deer population management.

The changes are under consideration because of differences in regional deer populations, habitat and social interests.

Both meetings will be held at 6:30 p. m. The first is Oct. 20 in the Randolph Fire Hall, 70 Main St., Randolph. The second will be Oct. 22 in the Sheridan Parkside Community Center auditorium, 169 Sheridan Parkside Drive, Town of Tonawanda.

DEC deer biologists and other staff will make a presentation and then respond to written questions. A survey will also be distributed to help guide officials in making management decisions.

For information, call the DEC Bureau of Wildlife’s Albany office at (518) 402-3883 or visit http://

www.dec.ny.gov/animals/57795.html

. Written comments can be sent to Deer Management Program, NYSDEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4750.