ECONOMICS OF SUPPLEMENTAL FEEDING AND FOOD PLOTS FOR WHITE-TAILED DEER

To answer the questions, ''Would it be advisable to implement supplemental feeding?'' and ''Would it be better to feed or plant food plots?'' I performed a comparative economic analysis of food plots and feeders for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) If increased deer visibility is the goal, feeders are most economical/ha. If least cost/unit dry matter of supplemental feed consumed is the goal, then food plots usually are the most economical. There are 2 exceptions: first, if the initial investment on machinery for food plots cannot be met, and second, if expected food plot yields are <3,168 kg/ha dry matter. Considering all costs, however, food plots would not be profitable under most of today's lease rates. An added pitfall of food plots is that by increasing herd levels above normal carrying capacities, additional supplemental feeding may be needed during a drought to protect the herd, the range, or both.