
09/18/2025
We are kicking this off, we want some really good information built for hunters and landowners. We are approaching this from a holistic management style. We will post on here, pics, reels and youtube videos. You will be along for the ride! EHD is going to be here every year in some form as the northern United States boils in summer heat!
Watch for more details!
White-Tailed Deer Disease Recovery Study
Helping Deer Herds Bounce Back After Disease Outbreaks
What's This About?
A devastating deer disease called Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) hit hard in 2025, killing 75-80% of deer on some properties in Ohio and West Virginia. We're studying how to help deer populations recover faster and stronger.
The Simple Problem
* Climate change is making deer diseases worse
* Traditional recovery takes 5-10 years naturally
* We don't know which management practices actually work
* Landowners need practical solutions now
What We're Testing
6 properties across 2 states with different approaches:
🔴 Hard-Hit Properties (75-80% deer mortality)
* Bartlett, Ohio (132 acres)
* Mineral Wells, WV (130 acres)
🟢 Healthy Properties (no disease impact)
* 4 control sites in West Virginia (93 to 686 acres)
Management Approaches Being Tested
🚁 High-Tech Monitoring (All Sites)
* Thermal drones count deer monthly
* Cellular cameras track individual deer 24/7
* No disturbing the animals - all remote
💊 Intensive Care (4 Sites)
* High-protein feed supplements
* Improved water sources
* Food plots (like gardens for deer)
* Habitat improvements
* Mineral supplements
* Remove invasive plants
🥗 Nutrition Only (1 Site)
* Just feed and minerals
* No habitat changes
👀 Hands-Off (1 Site)
* Just watch and count
* No management at all
What We Expect to Learn
For Landowners:
* Which management practices actually work
* How fast deer can recover with help
* What's worth spending money on
* How to prevent future disasters
For Scientists:
* How climate change affects deer diseases
* Best practices for wildlife recovery
* Early warning signs for outbreaks
* Long-term population health strategies
Timeline & Results
Year 1: Set up equipment, start treatments Years 2-3: Track recovery progress Years 4-5: Analyze results, publish findings
Expected Recovery:
* Without help: 5-10 years to recover
* With intensive management: 3-5 years to recover
* Healthier herds: Better survival during future outbreaks
Why This Matters
✅ First comprehensive study of its kind ✅ Practical solutions for landowners and hunters ✅ Climate change preparation for wildlife agencies ✅ Economic benefits for rural communities dependent on hunting ✅ Conservation success for future generations
The Bottom Line
We're using cutting-edge technology and proven management techniques to help deer herds recover faster from disease outbreaks that are becoming more common due to climate change.
Contact us for more information about participating properties, research updates, or partnership opportunities.
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