Continuing the Tradition: Deer Hunting
I was going to write about compost. I am such a huge fan. That rich nourishing smell of the earth, the way the steam rises off a warm rich freshly turned pile. Something I love and know a lot about! However, being that the release of this article (Nov 7), I thought I would try writing about something I know absolutely nothing about! Deer Season! That time of year when beards start to grow, the gear gets brought out, rifles get sighted, PTO that has been saved is about to be used, and the nursery is almost vacated of staff and customers.
What gives? I thought I would do a little research and see what all the hype is about. And boy did I learn a lot!
Of course, my immediate focus was ‘hunting and the challenges to the landscape’. However, as I was educating myself on all things “whitetail”: scouting, the Rut, scrapes, rubs, food, disease, etc., I was totally intrigued by this thing called “hunting”! I get it!
Even though I couldn’t shoot or use a bow, the opportunity to be in the woods, the excitement in the air, and the camaraderie between fellow hunters must be an awesome experience. So why the decline in hunters? It was interesting to read about the decline and the ripple effect it has on the economy.
Public opinion has had a direct effect, and this year had the biggest decline in 30 years. Demographics have had a huge impact on the approval rating. Only 65% of African Americans approve of hunting, 61% of Hispanics, and 69% of people 18-39. The highest favorability was those who hunt regularly, shoot recreationally, fish, are male, caucasian, live in the Midwest or rural areas and are 35 years old or older.
The decline of hunters has vast funding issues for the state government. Fewer licenses being sold hurts state and federal programs. Hunting pumps hundreds of millions into conservation efforts. Unfortunately, without that funding, there is a less detailed approach to many programs. Most importantly, controlling and managing the herd!
As much as I like hearing my hunter friends bragging about that 8-point buck, it seems the responsible approach to managing the herd lies with the does. With the decrease in hunters, the deer population is rising. This increase in the deer population has many great concerns.
According to Michigan.gov, 58,000 car related accidents resulting in 11 deaths occurred in Michigan in 2022. The cost of repairs can be in the thousands or even result in your vehicle being a total loss. Keep in mind that most of these accidents have been reported on two lane roads, and when the deer are at their most active, early dawn or at dusk.
Deer management is important for improving and maintaining forest health. Deer like to eat saplings, seedlings, and native plants, clearing the way for invasive species to spread into highly populated areas. Decades of over browsing have left many forests with the inability to regenerate.
Disease is also a risk of overpopulation. CWD and other diseases have been responsible for large die-offs. It is important to maintain herd size for the safety of the public and hunters.
I could certainly continue in many different directions. I could go on about all the cool clothing and garb, best practices, safety, and even about programs aimed at building renewed interest in the sport. There is so much more to the sport then picking up a weapon and heading in the woods. Educate yourself, respect the landscape, and be mindful of the footprint you leave behind. Have fun and be safe!
But, most of all, good luck!
