Buck_Buster

What is the Minimum size land need to implement a QDM program and see results?
I live on the Eastern shore of MD and land is minimal

timbercruiser

When you say minimal land, are you talking less than 500 acres? At our last QDMA meeting they talked about management on small tracts. It will probably depend on what kind of neighbors you have that hunt. If they are manageing their herd, you can also. What kind of land you have, food, water, bedding cover and herd density will make a difference.

farm hunter

I think you can make a difference on land as little as 75-100 acres. However, the land MUST be good bedding cover, offer food & water, and be hunted lightly. Also important is the neighboring land, if its all heavily hunted, it can be a tough proposition - but a difference can be made by protecting young bucks, and harvesting does. However, if it butts up to a park, or Non-Hunted property, then you are in business - and it'll be easier. The hardest thing to do in most areas is to reduce the doe Population to a reasonable #. This is a battle we continue to fight in our program (just under 200 acres).

Finaly, QDM isn't "trophy management" You need to define your goals, and work within your land's constraints to balance the herd for sex, and age class, and keep it at least 20% below the Carrying Capcity of the property, or surrounding area - thats QDM in a nutshell.

lunchbucket

Just start with what you have... We have clients that use supplements and plant less that a 1/4 acre and get 145-165 class buck every year. Opinions very... Just start doing it!!!

Romans 10:9 Psalms 42

DBL-LUNG

Farm Hunter said it pretty well, give them the four necessities and they will stay on your property. Food, water, thermal cover, and shelter. Most of it comes down to your neighbors if its less than 100 acres, talk to them and see.

Good luck