Wisconsin Ag Connection - State Deer Management Assistance Program Seeing Growth

Wisconsin Ag News Headlines

State Deer Management Assistance Program Seeing Growth
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 08/26/2015

Following a successful launch of the Wisconsin Deer Management Assistance Program last year, state landowners and land managers are continuing to work closely with the Department of Natural Resources to manage their properties for healthy deer and habitat.

During the program's first year, the department accepted 114 applications and worked with nearly 300 landowners. In 2015, 248 applications were received, and the department is currently working with over 700 landowners on nearly 88,000 acres of land.

New additions to DMAP in 2015 include public land enrollment, four landowner workshops, additional communication with local landowners, and an opportunity to participate in a voluntary mentored hunting and trapping program. Workshops provide an excellent opportunity for DMAP cooperators to network and learn more about maximizing the value of their property for deer and other wildlife.

DMAP provides habitat and herd management assistance to private landowners and public land managers interested in improving habitat conditions for deer and other wildlife. Three enrollment levels are available, depending on the size of the property. All enrollees receive technical advice from wildlife professionals, access to habitat improvement resources and program updates and invitations to DMAP workshops.

Individual properties or a group of properties totaling more than 160 acres are eligible to receive a property management plan, a site visit with a DNR wildlife biologist and forester, and annual property-specific harvest reports and more. Enrollment in DMAP may also qualify a landowner or land manager for reduced-price antlerless tags.

A department survey of nearly 300 enrollees in 2014 found that 93 percent were satisfied with the program, and 77 percent intended to implement most or all of the habitat improvement recommendations found in their management plan. Many current users have stated that they would recommend DMAP to other landowners, and enjoy the informational resources provided to them through their online MyDMAP account.

Other Wisconsin Headlines