slamdunk
Moderator
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I wanted to start a separate thread to discuss ideas, thoughts and visions on where we would like to see our acceptable deer numbers and how we can collectively achieve some success in this.
I'll start by saying "Do not even mention weapon restrictions, I am talking about DEER not Bucks."
It's no secret I am pro Conservation as a member of the MDF's High Desert Leadership Team.
I joined and became active because I wanted to see first hand where the money goes and I also wanted to be active in putting it there.
Collaring studies-
These studies are imperative to help us understand the challenges our deer face because of Urban Sprawl, getting to and from the wintering grounds and help us help them get there, as well as discovering CWD.
Collaring predators-
This information helps us better see and understand the impacts of predators on our deer.
I also support the OTC lion tags.
Even though it's rare to see a lion without using dogs, even killing one cat by a random hunter saves around 30 deer a year (conservative).
More fencing and crossing projects-
These don't save all deer from getting hit, but they definitely help from dispersing deer all over the various high traffic areas.
We can't forbid deer from getting to feed and water, but we can direct them in safer places to cross.
There are more fencing projects scheduled in the books.
Winter Feeding-
Although very controversial, I do believe it has it's place and is at least a feel good attempt.
Habitat Projects-
Absolutely yes, especially on winter ranges.
The biggest factor to success here is moisture.
Pray for rain, but continue restorations.
Depredation Hunts-
I absolutely hate these.
Two years ago one rancher near Torrey killed approximately a hundred deer in one single night with an AR-15 because they were in his hay.
If half of those were pregnant Does, the damage is unfathomable.
Figure out a plan to use Expo and Conservation dollars to compensate ranchers and or help fence the hay to keep the deer out.
We cannot afford to keep losing our pregnant Does.
I would like to see some huge improvements here.
Thoughts, input and suggestions?
Go.....
I'll start by saying "Do not even mention weapon restrictions, I am talking about DEER not Bucks."
It's no secret I am pro Conservation as a member of the MDF's High Desert Leadership Team.
I joined and became active because I wanted to see first hand where the money goes and I also wanted to be active in putting it there.
Collaring studies-
These studies are imperative to help us understand the challenges our deer face because of Urban Sprawl, getting to and from the wintering grounds and help us help them get there, as well as discovering CWD.
Collaring predators-
This information helps us better see and understand the impacts of predators on our deer.
I also support the OTC lion tags.
Even though it's rare to see a lion without using dogs, even killing one cat by a random hunter saves around 30 deer a year (conservative).
More fencing and crossing projects-
These don't save all deer from getting hit, but they definitely help from dispersing deer all over the various high traffic areas.
We can't forbid deer from getting to feed and water, but we can direct them in safer places to cross.
There are more fencing projects scheduled in the books.
Winter Feeding-
Although very controversial, I do believe it has it's place and is at least a feel good attempt.
Habitat Projects-
Absolutely yes, especially on winter ranges.
The biggest factor to success here is moisture.
Pray for rain, but continue restorations.
Depredation Hunts-
I absolutely hate these.
Two years ago one rancher near Torrey killed approximately a hundred deer in one single night with an AR-15 because they were in his hay.
If half of those were pregnant Does, the damage is unfathomable.
Figure out a plan to use Expo and Conservation dollars to compensate ranchers and or help fence the hay to keep the deer out.
We cannot afford to keep losing our pregnant Does.
I would like to see some huge improvements here.
Thoughts, input and suggestions?
Go.....