Farmers and hunters find common ground in managing wildlife and crops

The fall hunting season and crop harvest are in full swing across Ohio. Hunting is a favorite pastime for many, while farming remains a way of life for countless others. White-tailed deer and turkey are among the most sought-after game in the country. Adding wildlife plantings not only improves hunting opportunities but also serves as an important conservation tool for the soil.

Wildlife is everywhere — and while some areas see more than others, animals can cause serious crop damage. I often speak with farmers throughout the year and ask how their crops look, how they finished, or what yields they produced. Almost every time, wildlife damage comes up in conversation. Many farmers mention the high white-tailed deer population in our region, and I agree — numbers are significant in east-central Ohio. Because fields here are generally smaller than those in central or western Ohio, they are more susceptible to heavy damage.

Whether you own land or have permission to hunt or manage wildlife on a local farm, cooperation between landowners and farmers can help balance productive crop yields with healthy wildlife populations. The animals will be there regardless, but adding a supplemental food source can reduce pressure on cash crops.

Wildlife seedings can be annual, perennial or habitat-focused. Some farmers even plant small “sacrifice” fields of soybeans to draw wildlife away from primary production fields. Others are converting cropland to hay because of recurring damage.

If you own land but aren’t a farmer, consider leasing your crop or hay fields to one — many producers are eager for additional acreage. If you don’t own land, work with a farmer to plant cover crops after harvest. Annual seedings are common, but a fallow area can also be turned into a perennial plot. Planting wildlife food plots can be as inexpensive or as elaborate as you wish, and sharing costs with a farmer can make it mutually beneficial.

Most farmers already apply lime and fertilizer, so offering to help offset those costs could earn you hunting access or permission to establish wildlife plots. A diverse seed mix is ideal, as different species play various roles in soil health and attract wildlife throughout the year. For example, brassicas and oats will winterkill, while winter wheat and rye keep soil protected and provide a green food source through the cold months — a win-win for both wildlife and erosion control in eastern and southeastern Ohio’s hilly terrain.

Many farms border wooded areas, which also provide opportunities for habitat improvement. Practices such as timber stand improvement can help. Offering to hinge-cut less desirable trees or girdle invasive species allows native vegetation to thrive. Helping a forest landowner meet their management goals could lead to hunting permission — while improving habitat and benefiting nearby farmers through reduced crop loss.

Farmers and hunters share more common ground than they might think. By working together, they can enhance the land, improve harvests and create better environments for both wildlife and agriculture.