A few freinds and I have been planting food plots for several years. Clover, oats, turnups, ect. When the hole CWD came out and they made the rule of no salt licks at all, because it use to be don't hunt over it unless you have removed it 10 days befor. When it came out we asked if these food plots are crops, and we were told yes. And some of the food plots that my 2 buddys have are paid for by the state for there CRP programs. One is in north-west IL. (whiteside)and the other is in southern IL. (Franklin & Hamilton) Also after 2-3 years of food plots and passing on smaller 2 1/2 year olds, on my 600 acres of creek tree lines and no tiber wider than 60-70 yards,I have taken 130 to 160 in. bucks every year. And it all had to do with food and letting them get older.
I hope this helps you out.