Habitat Enhancement
As stewards of the land, forest, fields, wetlands and water features we own or lease, we have a responsibility and opportunity to do many small and large things to enhance both the environment and the wildlife with which we share the elements. What's cool is that we can do these things while enjoying the very recreational pursuits we cherish. In the following pages, we attempt to bring you some thoughts and ideas from wildlife managers and biologists about some of the ways we can actively participate in enhancing wildlife habitat.
Common to all species, homo sapiens sapiens included, to perpetuate the species as well as nourish health and growth is the absolute need for adequate nutrition and water. While most species' natural tendency is to migrate, wherein possible, to areas that provide these basic needs, wildlife managers and enthusiasts can do much to improve existing habitat for many resident wildlife species by ensuring adequate water supplies and through the creation of food plots.
For hunters, state laws and public perception increasingly point toward further restrictions or outright banning of baiting in many areas. In fact, at this writing the whole lower peninsula of Michigan has imposed a temporary ban on all feeding, even if solely for wildlife viewing, as well as baiting in any amount. With the continuing threat of Bovine Tuberculosis and Chronic Wasting Disease, these temporary bans may become permanent. Hunters, wildlife observers and conservationists view this as an opportunity to education themselves and others on the dynamic and more natural merits of planning, preparing and building food plots.
For more information on food plots, click here.
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