Winter in Central NY

So far this year - we've had a lot of snow in December, and a very mild January followed - and we lost most of the snow. This is all GREAT NEWS following several very tough winters here with over 150" of snow and temperatures in the -20 degrees in January. This will give our Deer Herd a real chance to rebound - after falling each of the last three years in most areas.

We plant alot of corn, to get our deer through the Winter months usually. While our population is down, its not as bad as in other areas. I think we can point to a strong winter management program as a good reason.

Right now the plots (we have about 20 acres that can be planted) are feeding the winter deer population. The corn is still standing, and the Soybeans are gone. With the mild weather, our clover plots are getting used more than normal for Mid Winter - usually thay are covered in several feet of snow. The deer do not seem to be yarding. While much of these plots have already been depleted- enough still remain to ensure that the deer will have pleant to get through February and March - without destroying the young tree/brush growth in the woods and bedding areas.

This is the time of year where we evaluate the deer herd. We observe their winter patterns, and sometimes make or move treestands to take atvantage of future late season hunts.

We also go over our food plots - apple production, and browse usage - to determine what to do this coming spring. We've determined this winter - that our Clover Plots have waned - and will not offer the same forage at "green up" as we are used to. So this Spring, our first priority will be to establish 2 or 3 clover plots, with at least one being over two acres. Also, we will rotate our Corn an Soybeans.

Over the next couple months - I'll post some ideas we are considering for 2006.