Hunting Property Land ManagementWildlife Habitat Improvement

For optimal deer habitat, clear 50-70% of brushy areas while leaving 30-50% for cover. Create irregular edges, preserve mast-producing oaks, and leave brush mottes (clumps) throughout. Complete clear-cutting is counterproductive - deer need escape cover, bedding areas, and thermal protection. Strategic clearing increases browse availability while maintaining essential cover.

Late winter through early spring (February-April) is ideal for habitat clearing - after hunting season and before nesting season for birds. This timing allows vegetation to establish before summer and gives deer time to adapt before fall. Avoid clearing during fawning season (May-July) when possible. Fall clearing after seasons close is also acceptable.

Yes, strategically located cedar provides excellent thermal cover (cool in summer, warm in winter) and hiding cover. Leave cedar mottes in areas that won't be hunted, particularly on north-facing slopes and near bedding areas. However, dense cedar thickets provide poor habitat - thin them significantly while leaving scattered cover.

Food plot creation involves: 1) Complete brush clearing of the plot area (usually 1-5 acres); 2) Root/stump removal if you'll be plowing; 3) Soil testing and amendment; 4) Establishing planted food plot crop. We handle the clearing phase - leave the mulch in place to decompose or remove it for immediate planting. Forestry mulching creates excellent seedbed preparation.

Hunting property clearing typically costs $1,500-$4,000 per acre for standard forestry mulching, similar to ranch clearing. However, hunting properties often benefit from selective/pattern clearing which may cost slightly more ($2,000-$4,500/acre) due to more precise work. Food plot clearing is typically charged at the same rate for the cleared acreage. Most hunting property projects run $20,000-$100,000+ depending on total acreage and approach.

Strategic clearing improves deer habitat by increasing browse availability, creating edge habitat, and improving overall carrying capacity. Studies show proper habitat management can increase deer body weights and antler quality. The key is strategic clearing - not clear-cutting. Done correctly, you'll see improved deer numbers and quality within 2-3 years.