UNIVERSITY PARK – A new webinar series from Penn State Extension will focus on a wholistic view of forest and deer herd management.
While food plots are an important component of raising quality white-tailed deer, there are more things to consider, organizers noted, including forest management, invasive weed control, herd movements and other topics.
Titled “Antlers and Academics,” the virtual series is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to support a healthy deer herd by connecting them with academics who study these subjects every day. Topics will vary throughout the year, but the ongoing series will be held virtually every other month.
Food plots, which are areas of cultivated or planted vegetation, are popular with hunters and wildlife observers across the state. These plots can help attract, promote and maintain food and habitat for wildlife year-round. While food plots can be used for many types of animals – such as upland birds, turkeys and other wildlife – this series will focus primarily on food plots for white-tailed deer.
Over the next six months, Antlers and Academics will focus on fall food plots and forest and invasive species management. Late summer and early fall present a critical window for food plot managers to make strategic decisions that support healthy wildlife and habitat. Time spent managing food plots also is an ideal time to assess forest conditions and management needs, extension experts said.
Designed for hunters and anyone interested in learning about white-tailed deer food plots, the following webinars are scheduled:
— “Fall food plot preparation,” 7-8:15 p.m. July 22. This session will guide participants through practices such as species selection, liming and fertilizing, soil cultivation, planting and spraying.
— “Forest management and resources,” 6-7:15 p.m. Sept. 25. Attendees can learn how to manage woodland resources to support wildlife habitat. This session covers thinning, creating herbaceous openings, establishing wildlife corridors, and tools for Pennsylvania landowners to enhance their forested properties.
— “Managing undesirable plant species,” 6-7 p.m. Nov. 20. Presenters will discuss how to spot and manage invasive and overabundant plants to improve forest health, wildlife habitat and food plots.
Participants must register in advance of each event.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/antlers-and-academics.
