Hi Laurie,
Thank you for your question about using deer manure on your non-edible landscaping.

As is generally recommended when using manure in the landscape or garden, it is important to follow best practices including composting the deer manure, avoid using it on edible plants, and testing the nutrient levels before using deer manure on your landscape.

“The decision to use deer droppings as a fertilizer involves careful consideration of both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the potential nutrient content, along with the risks of pathogens and weed seeds, is crucial. By following best practices like composting, gardeners can mitigate some of the risks. However, the unique circumstances of each garden and gardener’s comfort level with potential risks should guide the decision-making process. Whether viewed as a creative recycling of natural materials or a risk not worth taking, fertilizing with deer manure is an intriguing aspect of garden management that deserves thoughtful exploration.”
Source: Deer Manure as Fertilizer: Safety and Considerations for Your Garden - PlantPropagation.org

I recommend you call the Deschutes County OSU Extension office in Redmond at<personal data hidden> and ask to speak with Amy Jo Detweiler (oregonstate.edu). Amy Jo is our Community Horticulturist. She welcomes your home garden questions and is a great resource. Amy Jo may have recommendations and additional information about using deer manure as a landscape fertilizer specific to our geographic location.