I'm not sure why you haven't received any thoughts, maybe some were emailed to you - but your description of the property, while good - is difficult to follow.

Generally, it sounds like you already have a decent deer population, and bucks to work with. You need to decide on your goal - is it to harvest more bucks, better bucks, more deer period, - or more does. This will effect how you plan your plots going forward.

Again, Generally speaking, a 10-15" strip of food plot, regardless of how long it is, will do very little for you, especially if you already have adequate food sources. Personally, I would concentrate on a centrally located year round plot, probably clover, located very near the center of the property. Low spots can offer better soil types (not always) - but, a centrally located - main plot of 2 acres or more will substantially effect deer movemnt, and allow you to better manage a herd, regardless of your goal.

As far as habitat management - If you decide to plant shrubs that are attractive to deer, - you might concentrate on something like Red Osier, especially if the land is wet some of the year! Deer really like it, and you can produce a very high amount of browse in a short period of time. Apples, sumac, blackberry, and hazel are other good choices - and YES if low, shrub cover is lacking - you should promote, and encourage it - Stay away from Alder, Poplar, Willow, and most pine/spruce - while they may offer cover - they do little for browse, when you need it. Some in moderation, with preffered shrubs is OK.

Sorry I could not be more specific.

Keep us updated on your progress, and decisions going forward.


Edited by - farm hunter on 01/28/2003 22:24:19