HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – With increased animal activity around this time of year, deer carcasses tend to litter the lanes of major roadways in and around Hopkinsville. What department in the city is responsible for the speedy removal of these eyesores? Various local and state crews divide up the workload in an attempt to keep roads clear.

Statistics from Matt Hughes with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet show that in 2023 there were 96 deer related accidents. Between October and December large animals are more active because of mating season. This coupled with reduced visibility on roads especially around dawn and dusk can create hazardous driving conditions, according to KYTC State Highway Engineer James Ballinger.

City vs. state vs. county roads

Mike Perry with Hopkinsville Public Works told Christian County Now that the responsibility for removal of roadkill and the process for disposal depends on the ownership of the street. Highways in and around the city are under the jurisdiction of KYTC District 2. Other streets within city limits are covered by Public Works and Animal Control.

“If it is a large animal like a deer, Public Works will remove it from city owned streets and take animal to landfill,” said Perry. “The KYTC normally just puts lime on the deer, and it will dissolve the carcass.” He added that if someone is unsure who owns the street, they can always call Public Works directly and they will notify the appropriate party.

According to Officer Royale Marfil with the Hopkinsville Police Department, Animal Control officers play a large role as well. She explained that Police Chief Jason Newby and Public Works have come to an understanding about the process, with Animal Control stepping in often, and Public Works assisting when needed.

“Animal Control is responsible for removing large animals and wildlife from roadways, as they pose driving hazards and public health concerns,” said Marfil. In these cases, the roadkill is taken to the Hopkinsville Solid Waste Enterprise.

As far as county roads go, the Christian County Sheriff’s Office recommends people contact their dispatch to report any and all traffic concerns, including animals that may be impeding traffic. According to Deputy Chris Miller, their dispatch has resources they contact for removal.

How to report

For roadkill that’s impeding traffic, drivers should call 911.

But for roadkill on the side of the road that needs picking up, the public should notify one of these three agencies:

  • On city streets, call Hopkinsville Animal Control at (270) 890-1300, or Hopkinsville Public Works at (270) 890-0600.
  • On state highways visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website, and make a report on their “Report a Hazard” function under “Contact”.
  • On county roads, call CCSO dispatch at (270) 890-1300