Farm Visitors
The farm and the vineyard are greatly affected by nature. Of course, weather is a huge factor. This month, I would like to discuss wildlife – mainly deer damage. While we have small issues with deer in the vineyard, our larger problem comes in our row crop fields. One farm in particular consistently has as much as 50 percent loss due to deer. We have tried several management solutions from spray deterrents, scare crows, noise makers – you name it.
This best conservation practice that I have found are the state regulated deer damage permits. These permits are available through the Department of Natural Resources to farmers/landowners to manage deer herd size through harvesting select does (female deer). This controls the population as well as the economic damage caused by over population.
– Greg, Farm Manager
