The pickup's metal frame gets the spotlighters up where they have a clear view of the countryside. Padded boat seats make it a comfortable ride.

Here's how the spotlight survey works:

The TPWD biologist, in this case Misty Sumner, gets 2 volunteers to help on every survey. One drives slowly and the other two use the spotlights. Each spotlighter covers their side of the road.

We surveyed 62 deer: 16 Bucks, 21 Does, 9 Fawns, and 16 Unknowns. We also recorded a coyote, a bobcat, and other varmints.

First, we get a positive identification of the animal. Both of us shine it and get a good clear look at it.

If it is a deer we use binoculars to see if it is a Doe, Buck or Fawn and that is recorded. The maximum distance a deer can be counted is is 250 yards.

When a deer is identified, the biologist establishes a Deer Point. Modern technology helps out here. All of the following is recorded for each Deer Point. 

1. GPS Location: a GPS is used to get the exact co-ordinates of each Deer Point. 
2. Distance To The Wildlife: the spotlighters use a Digital Range Finder to determine the exact yardage from the truck to the deer. 
3. Compass Bearing: a Compass bearing is taken with a Compass that has a look through view window.
4. Terrain: the type of terrain is recorded.
5. Visibility: the visibility on each side of the road is recorded, from 0-250 yards.

It is a slight tangent, but I want to make an important point. These deer surveys as well as numerous other projects to study and improve wildlife habitat and hands on programs to introduce people to the outdoors, are funded by the moneys from Hunting License sales. We, as hunters, make a viable contribution to the quality and health of our State's wildlife.

Deer Lines: Surveys like this are taken on established routes called "Deer Lines." The lines are 15 miles long. Each County has several Deer Lines and they are surveyed a couple of times a year. 

Compiling The Data: the survey information taken from all the Deer Lines is imputed in the TPWD computer system. It is detailed: the GPS route and all the Deer Points are uploaded directly from the GPS and the distances, compass bearings, visibility's, terrain types, and deer counts are inputted. Each Counties survey information is studied. A realistic estimated Deer Density is established for each Line, for every County, and for the Regions of the State that have a deer population. 
  
Results: then Deer Harvest Recommendations are formulated by each County, as well as for the State. Then the seasons are established and Statewide and County Bag Limits are put in place for that year.