I hunt state land, and feel the approach of improving the herd with DMP's and Antler Restrictions are not a balanced approach to helping improve the deer herd. These are 'wait & see' what develops systems, which improve the numbers of the herd, but not the overall health of the herd. In the Catskills, where I hunt, and the Adirondacks, which I have hunted twice, these methods are one sided, looking at the end product, increased numbers, without giving consideration to the supply side of the equation to get there, nutrition. In western New York, there is sufficient agriculture to help feed the herd back, however in the Catskills & Adirondacks, quantity & quality of feed isn't there for a truly healthy herd. I think the DEC should look into habitat improvement, like the planting of mast bearing trees/food plots, similar to the private outfitters/ranches do. I feel a healthy herd is a herd with proper nutrition, and proper buck/doe balance. Look at the NWTF or Ducks Unlimited. These organizations exist to improve their sport by working with dec's, and they work well.. The turkey populations have exploded everywhere, and DU has saved & restored wetlands nationally. They provide an organized volunteer work force to the DECs to get these projects done. Do you think the DEC should be including habitat improvement in its plans? Would an organization for the benefit of a quality, healthy deer herd in NY help?