ORIGINAL: archer58
While there are 2 sides to this debate, I think that there is an underlying reason why this problem even exists. Doug and I have discussed the deer herd in our area quite often. And while UNDER THE PRESENT CONDITIONS I agree the habitat cannot sustain more than 10-12 DPSM , I also think we can have more deer.
My question for anyone who can answer is...Why is the DCNR and the PGC not logging sections of public land?
The land is not being managed properly IMO.
Logging is REVENUE. To the DCNR and to the almost broke PGC. The number of logging outfits around here is in the 100's. They would pay to get the timber the same as they would pay an individual to cut timber off thier property.
I really think this is a NO BRAINER. Improve the habitat.The herd and the health of the herd and other wildlife will increase. It just won't happen on it's own. We need to help it. This is a basic fundamental of land management for wildlife.
Open up the forrest floor to new growth. It's a win-win.
I think you are spot on here. We have gone from no management to mismanagement and the results are what should be expected.
Cutting 50 acres in a ten thousand acre block of woods and being surprised that the deer eat the new growth is laughable. Cut two thousand acres and see what happens.
For some of you that refuse to see,let me help you just a bit. I own 150 acres every year I plant a 1/4 acre garden,guess what the rabbits ,ground hogs & deer eat my new plants ,does that mean that the other 149 3/4 acres is bad habitat? [:-]
Management plan my butt, its destruction plain and simple .[
]