Overseer of MetroParks deer reduction effort leaves for new job

YOUNGSTOWN The Natural Resources Manager for Mill Creek MetroParks, has resigned. 

Nick Derico submitted his resignation letter on June 30, citing a new role in the private sector that requires his family to relocate.

MetroParks confirmed receipt and acceptance of his resignation, with the last day of employment Friday, July 11.

Among Derico’s duties was to manage the park's deer population, a program that has drawn public attention.

During his tenure, Derico was involved in the implementation and management of the park's deer control program. This program included both controlled recreational hunts and culling by professional sharpshooters to address the deer population's impact on park vegetation.

The deer management program began as an effort to mitigate ecological damage caused by deer overpopulation, with Derico previously stating the hunts were intended as a long-term solution.

While Derico was widely known for overseeing the park's deer management program, his role encompassed a broader range of responsibilities for the MetroParks.

Derico was tasked with developing and implementing policies for managing the park's natural areas and coordinating programs to control invasive plant species. He also worked with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to manage nuisance wildlife.

His duties extended to creating natural resource management plans and conducting environmental and ecological assessments for projects. He coordinated wetland determinations, stream surveys, and ecological site assessments, along with related mitigation and restoration efforts. He also oversaw the safe application of herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals.

Beyond direct environmental management, Derico supervised personnel, managed administrative records, and served as a MetroParks representative in regional natural resource organizations.

He provided technical assistance to other departments, fostered partnerships with various agencies and universities, and handled environmental permitting. He also gave public presentations and spoke to local media on environmental and natural resource topics.

Additionally, Derico assisted with the MetroParks' annual plan and budget, researched grant opportunities, and prepared grant applications.

Mill Creek MetroParks officials have not yet announced plans for Derico's replacement.