Adams -

I've dealt with a similar issue, except I was just trying to increase bedding areas. What we ended up with was clearing or thinning a section, and cultivating a "lone pine" or hemlock in the middle. Through trial and error we came up with this method - We call it the Lone Pine effect.

Basically what happens with the clearing is that Blackberry bushes quickly establish (at least on our property) also some goldenrod, and usually hardwood seedling growth. But that alone did not increase bedding by the deer - at least not enough to make a big difference. We found that if a young pine or hemlock (10ft-20ft tall) was left, the area around it would establish as expected, but very near the pine - the area usually remained relatively open - which we found was important - to encourage bedding.

I kind of explain it like this: If I was trying to hide from an enemy, or predator - I would never jump into "tight quarters" to hide - because I would lose many of my other senses - imagine hiding in a road culvert - should you be discovered - the jig is up.

The lone pine scenario offers an open veiw inside the thicket - as well as a little rain/snow relief in inclement weather. It works well enough, that when hunting anywhere - I pay special attention to lone pines in any cover.

You might want to consider this option, or a similar one when trying to increase your "buck bedroom" options.