In a recent episode of the Generation Top podcast, hosts Matt and Joe welcomed special guest Elliot Hubbard to discuss his extensive habitat improvement projects on his 113-acre property. From food plots to timber management, Elliot's dedication to enhancing the land for wildlife has been a challenging yet rewarding journey. In this blog post, we will delve into the key takeaways from the podcast episode and explore the importance of habitat management for a thriving wildlife population.

Creating Strategic Food Plots: Elliot's primary focus was on establishing food plots that would not only provide sustenance for the deer but also help in regenerating the timber on his property. With a high deer density in the area, Elliot recognized the need to supplement the natural food sources and occupy the deer's time on his land. By strategically placing food plots near bedding areas and neighboring agricultural fields, he aimed to keep the deer on his property during daylight hours, increasing his chances of encountering the bucks he was targeting.

Balancing Perennials and Annuals: Elliot shared his approach to food plot composition, which involved a mix of perennial and annual crops. While annuals provide immediate food sources, perennials offer long-term benefits, especially for doe and fawn populations. By allocating around 20% of his food plots to perennials, Elliot ensured that the does and fawns had access to food throughout the summer. However, he also emphasized the need to monitor deer density and adjust the ratio of perennials to annuals accordingly.

The Challenge of Displaced Bedding: One crucial aspect Elliot highlighted was the potential displacement of bedding areas due to an excessive number of food plots. While food plots are enticing for deer, they can disrupt natural bedding patterns and push bucks away from the area. Elliot stressed the importance of observing deer movement and adapting food plot placement to avoid displacing bedding areas. By understanding where the deer want to go and enhancing those areas with food and cover, he aimed to keep the deer on his property during daylight hours.

The Importance of Doe Harvest: Elliot emphasized the need for a balanced deer population and the significance of doe harvest. With a high deer density in his area, he recognized the importance of reducing the doe population to maintain a healthy buck-to-doe ratio. By shooting 78 does in the previous year, Elliot and his hunting partners aimed to break even in terms of population control. He encouraged hunters to prioritize doe harvest to ensure a sustainable and balanced deer herd.

Conclusion: Elliot Hubbard's habitat improvement projects serve as an inspiration for hunters and landowners looking to enhance their properties for wildlife. By strategically managing food plots, balancing perennial and annual crops, and prioritizing doe harvest, Elliot aims to create a thriving ecosystem that benefits not only deer but also other wildlife species. His dedication to improving the land and leaving a positive impact for future generations is a testament to the importance of habitat management in maintaining healthy wildlife populations.

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