’re making some progress. We began this practice at the beginning of the 1997 season. For the first two years we really didn’t notice a difference in the quality of the deer on our land. But in 1999 the larger bucks began appearing. As a matter of fact 1999 was probably the most productive year deer hunting that our parcel of land has ever seen. Out of the three bowhunters in our group (my dad, troy, and myself), both Troy and I shot a 13-pointer and an 11-pointer respectively. Ever since 1999 I have noticed that the amount and quality of the bucks have risen more and more each year. Because of the size of the bucks that roam our land, hunting has become even more enjoyable then it was before. When you know that there are larger bucks out there, you tend to stay out in the woods longer and pay more attention. One benefit that I enjoy my self, and I know others do, is that I get the experience to manage deer to the highest level of quality that it can be. I also love putting all my knowledge of whitetails to good use and see if I can make a difference in the deer herd, even if it’s just on our land. I believe that Quality Deer Management will only get bigger as time goes on. However this depends on two factors. First, education must continue for hunters and non-hunters alike. It is important to remember that Quality Deer Management is not only a “for trophies only” idea. I forget this myself a lot. Quality Deer Management is for the well being of all habitats and the balance of sex ratios, and from better hunter-landowner relationship to better managers of whitetailed deer. Secondly, the success of Quality Deer Management will also depend on how wildlife agencies respond to this idea. Throughout history, many northern states have gone all out on shooting bucks. Now they realize that just shooting bucks do not equal quality deer herds. I believe that it is time to make Quality Deer Management a part of eve...
