DEER TRACKING
". . . the many dimensions of the Canadian deer industry"

Tracking The Industry Editor - Randy Barks Box 59 - Cut Knife, SK. - S0M 0N0 - Phone / Fax (306) 398-2293 - Email: ohdeer@sk.sympatico.ca Deer Tracking values your input! Click here to find out how to contact us! Next deadline is May 1, 2002 Print version available by subscription! All articles and advertising in this issue are copyright © of Deer Tracking and may not be used in any form without express written permission from the editor.

April - May 2002 Issue

CONTENTS

WORLD DEER FARMING CONGRESS III

The February 2002 joint conference of the North American Deer Farmers Association and the World Deer Farming Congress III in Austin Texas was an enormous success by anyone's standards. This year's program was expanded to include a two-day seminar for veterinarians and a two-day seminar on the chemical immobilization of farmed deer and elk. Both of these extensions were well received and well attended. The conference chair, Jill Bryar Wood, and her staff created an excellent program of social activities and information sharing sessions. If you attended this conference and didn't learn anything or have any fun then you must have been at the wrong hotel!

The veterinary conference began early in the week before the main event and was, for this writer, both an enlightening and humbling experience. Session Chair and organizer Dr Ken Waldrup did a remarkable job of coordinating speakers and information needs. Veterinarians from New Zealand, Britain, Belgium, Sweden, Canada, and the US gathered to discuss some of the more important disease threats to global deer farming. Dr. Colleen Bruning-Fann from Michigan and Dr. Dan Baca from the Texas Animal Health Commission outlined the tuberculosis problem in Michigan and reviewed the control and regulatory strategies helping to keep most of the US free of tuberculosis. Dr. Colin Mackintosh and Dr. Peter Wilson from New Zealand followed with excellent presentations describing the New Zealand industry-led approach to tuberculosis research and control. Chronic Wasting Disease was of course the subject of much discussion. Dr. Lynn Creekmore from the US Department of Agriculture provided a good overview of the rapidly changing US situation. Facts and policy were literally changing as she spoke and Lynn in fact gave no guarantee that information used early in the presentation would still be accurate by the time she finished! Dr. Jerry Haigh from WCVM in Saskatoon showed everyone the very sober, human side of the CWD eradication efforts in Saskatchewan that often gets lost in the statistics and epidemiology of disease control. In contrast, he then gave a highly entertaining account of his efforts at using the occurrence of CWD as a teaching exercise for his veterinary students in a public enquiry format. When you next see Jerry, ask him where his blonde wig is!

The problem of emerging disease and foreign diseases are very hot topics in the deer farming industry. Dr. Becky Manning from the Johne's Disease Research Center at the University of Wisconsin gave an excellent presentation about testing strategies and methods for detecting Johne's disease in deer. Dr. Colin Mackintosh from AgResearch in New Zealand delivered an equally informative and candid talk about how this disease threatens the profitability of the New Zealand deer industry. The North American deer industry is likely to be relatively free of Johne's disease, and the speakers provided many good reasons why we should attempt to stay that way!

I was utterly rivetted by the presentations on Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and how deer are affected by this disease. Dr. John Fletcher from Scotland not only assisted with the FMD eradication efforts, but his own deer farm was squarely in the path of the outbreak. Dr Paul Gibbs, an English graduate who is currently at the University of Florida, and Dr. Ken Waldrup from Texas also participated in the FMD clean-up in Britain. Their pictures of the carnage caused by this disease and the efforts to stamp it out will remain with me for a very long time. In John Fletcher's opinion, "No FMD outbreak in any democratic country can ever expect to be managed without taking public opinion into account as a significant factor in the control strategy." For a time, it devastated almost every aspect of country life in Britain. Folks, we don't want this disease in Canada - ever.

The joint NADeFA and World Congress conference opened on the morning after the veterinary sessions with greetings from the organizers and hosts, and a keynote presentation from Dr Peter Wilson from Massey University, New Zealand. Peter spoke about "Whole Farm Management of Deer" and succeeded in demonstrating that all factors involved in deer production systems are connected. Changing one factor (diet, mineral levels, disease prevention, etc.) will have an effect on the others, but will not necessarily change the bottom line on the farm balance sheet. Key production factors for individual farms need to be identified, followed by goal setting in those important areas. Once goals have been set, a strategy of risk identification (history of disease, geographic risks - like Canadian winter!) and risk management (avoidance or control) can be devised. What emerges is a management plan formed on the basis of the "big picture" rather than the common "trouble shooting" plan that deals with trouble after it occurs. It all sounds so easy when an expert says it!

On opening day special attention was given to the history of deer farming. Speakers such as Dr. Li Guangyu from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and Dr Jerry Haigh from WCVM delighted guests with stories of deer farming efforts as long as 1000 years ago. According to the archaeological and artistic records of civilization, "modern" deer farming turns out to be any effort undertaken in the last few hundred years!

Later that day representatives of deer and elk producer associations from all over the world spoke about events and issues in their organizations. From Canada to Australia and Belgium, producer groups are working to support the deer industry and are accomplishing common goals. It was remarkable to learn that such widely diverse groups of people share similar farm and marketplace problems and it was interesting to learn of different approaches to overcoming these common problems.

Day two saw the information sessions move into high gear with species oriented lectures such as "Factors Affecting Reproduction in Fallow Deer" presented by Dr. Geoff Asher from New Zealand, or subject oriented offerings like "Producing Trophy Animals for Shooting Preserves" by Dave Griffith from Pennsylvania. Information was presented on Red, Sika, Fallow, and Axis deer as well as native white-tailed deer and elk by an impressive lineup of internationally known speakers. Special emphasis was placed on marketing and quality assurance of products such as meat and velvet antler. World leaders in these important areas of production spoke of mistakes and growing pains, and shared their wisdom with those who are still maturing and "learning-the-ropes". The opportunity for learning and growth at this conference was almost overwhelming and there was something of interest for everyone regardless of species farmed or country of origin.

Most conferences are distinguished by the quality of the hospitality and social events and this one was no exception. The evening events were well catered and accompanied by what I suspected might be excellent wine. Being unsure about this, I needed a few glasses to decide that it was indeed very good wine, particularly the Australian red. I was not alone in my indecisiveness about the wine and was joined by Kiwis, Aussies, Norwegians, a Swede, and various North Americans, all sampling the wine in a large congenial group, seated in the very comfortable furniture of the hotel foyer. We were farmers, processors, administrators, and scientists. Amidst the spirited conversation and frequently hilarious shenanigans involving helium filled balloons and nursery rhymes, I was struck by the international nature of the group and the fact that a common interest in deer had drawn us together. I fear we never did solve the issue of wine quality as we ran out before a consensus was reached.

The windup social event was a true example of Southern hospitality. Advertised as a "Grand Ole Texas Party" it featured a tour through a Texas property stocked with exotic game, and a cowboy style barbeque complete with six shooters, bullwhip tricks, and a rope tossing, loop spinning, crazy cowboy comedian. The crowd was also entertained by a Texas country-swing band that made me want to two-step, except that I was busy deciding whether to have more ribs, or perhaps more chicken. I settled for toe-tapping while struggling with the wine quality issue again.

The organizers of the conference deserve to be proud of their accomplishment. The exchange of scientific and business information, the Texas hospitality, and the opportunity to make new friendships and rekindle old ones were all accommodated by this well organized and world class event. I had no trouble deciding that I will be at the next World Deer Farming Congress in Melbourne, Australia in 2006.

Murray Woodbury (WCVM)

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AWMDA PRESIDENT'S PEN

This will most likely be my last article as President. My initial two-year term on the BOD will expire next month. I am hopeful that someone with a strong desire to continue efforts to move the industry forward will be nominated at the AGM to take my place on the Board. As you are aware, the BOD annually selects members from the elected board to fill the three executive positions outlined in our bylaws, including the position of President. Be sure to attend the AGM to ensure that your candidates are nominated and elected.

I would like to thank the current board and members at large for the tremendous support that I have received over the past two years while serving on the Board. A spirit of co-operation has been consistently maintained .The Board has always insisted upon the highest levels of honesty, integrity and professionalism throughout all of our business dealings. All decisions have been taken for the equal benefit of all members.

Over the past couple of years, the BOD has attempted to move towards a broader industry focus. This focus and the initiatives undertaken involve building or developing the industry based upon the total animal. White tail and mule deer are much more than trophy animals. There is also significant economic value in venison and by-products. While the CHPs initiative has naturally and correctly been an important and critical market development focus, we have made some progress in defining other market opportunities. We do have a tremendous animal. Individually and collectively we have the ability to fully develop the potential of the industry. Success will however require more than a few individuals working toward completion of the industry development initiatives. We simply have to have increased committee and zone participation.

An inordinate amount of time and effort has been directed towards the development and/or revision of the following regulatory programs: CWD Monitoring, LIDA, CHPs, and ADLIDF/AIP Funding, amongst others. Despite this effort and while we have collectively moved forward on all of these programs, considerable volunteer work will continue to be needed in order to satisfactorily complete any of these program initiatives. Unfortunately, in all these areas, if we do not get it right the first time around, we may not have an opportunity to correct the errors until it is to late for the industry. We cannot compromise or capitulate in areas that may be critical to the future viability or survival of our industry. Every producer needs to be informed and involved as these programs and regulations are being developed. Individual agendas and self-interest cannot be allowed to cloud our judgment. Whatever we develop must work for all existing and new producers/investors.

With all of the challenges that we face, why continue? Because successful development of this diversified livestock segment makes so much sense for all stakeholders. Virtually every initiative we are pursuing is fully consistent with all government and public policy initiatives. Whether it be development of safe, natural, environmentally friendly, valued added alternative food choices, or economic diversification of our agricultural production, or agri-tourism initiatives, or family farm and rural development initiatives, or efficient utilization of marginal private farm land, etc., etc. These are the reasons that we should continue our collective efforts to build an industry around our white-tail and mule deer. And besides, it is fun, there are great people in the industry to socialize and do business with and if we do it right, the industry should be sufficiently profitable to allow all of us to recover our investment and fund our retirement programs.

Regardless of my presence or absence on the BOD, I look forward to continuing to work on the Industry Development Committee and on the CHPs and CWD Monitoring Program initiatives. Also, I will of course continue to be on the Executive Committee as Past President.

See you at the AGM in Red Deer on April 7, 2002

Bryan Taitinger

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SWAMDPA LOGO UNVEILED

REGINA, March 16, 2002 - The fastest growing agricultural industry in the province held its 6th annual Convention, Trade Show & Auction March 15, 16, & 17, 2002 at the Delta Regina Hotel, Regina Saskatchewan.

SWAMDPA, the Saskatchewan White Tail and Mule Deer Producers Association representing the deer producers and ranchers of Saskatchewan organized the convention. The convention alternates between Regina and Saskatoon annually.

The action- packed weekend included a trade show highlighting producers, equipment, marketing and management tools for deer producers and ranchers. The convention hosted speakers with topics ranging from technical info on artificial insemination, to growing antlers, marketing and the very popular "New Producers Workshop".

The highlight of the convention was when the Hon. Clay Serby, Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture unveiled the new corporate logo for the association at the banquet and awards night for the producers and their families. The logo symbolizes the changing face of agriculture by showing traditional wheat and a white tail and mule deer head representing the diversity but yet both part of the new agriculture family.

In his speech to the banquet gathering Mr. Serby said, "Saskatchewan agriculture needs to continue to diversify if it is to be sustainable in the future and deer farming fits well into this plan" The association has worked closely with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food and the deputy premier recognized that when he said, "The Saskatchewan Government has an excellent working relationship with the Saskatchewan White tail and Mule Deer Producers Association and plans to keep building on this partnership."

The deputy premier talked about working with industry towards two way trade of game farm livestock with other jurisdictions and complimented the industry in its ongoing efforts to work with Government and other partners to support key areas in research and veterinary support for industry development.

Hon. Clay Serby wrapped up his speech with encouragement and support for the industry by saying, "I want to reiterate the Government's commitment to assist your industry by ensuring that our legislation, policies and programs enable and facilitate continued and sustainable growth and development."

The rest of the evening was filled with pride and fun as awards were handed out to producers for excellence in livestock production. To cap out the evening a fun- filled fund raising auction was held selling beautiful artwork, goods, services and straws of semen from top herd sires, all donated.

For more information on the Saskatchewan White tail and Mule Deer Producers Association contact SWAMDPA at Box 1360, Yorkton, Saskatchewan, S3N 3G2. Phone 306-783-5257, fax: 306-783-5257.

Mark Bencze

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OWTDPA CONVENTION

The 14th annual convention of the Ontario Deer & Elk Farmers' Association, held Mar 8-10 in Mississauga, Ont. was inspirationally titled, "A Celebration of our Industry." Indeed, the approximately 75 producers (mainly elk, whitetail and red deer) found plenty to celebrate along with, of course, a few challenges to meet.

The convention highlighted several key areas that affect cervid producers alike. The venison market requires on-going research in order to establish a base price for cull animals and meat stock and such will serve to keep breeding stock prices at proper market levels as well. U.S. and other international markets received focus for the purpose of marketing antler and antler products. Trade and border issues were discussed as were present and future possibilities involving trophy ranches in Ontario, Quebec and Western Canada.

In her President's Report, Mabel Dougherty mentioned that while it remains difficult to get a commitment from producers, whitetail deer farming continues to grow slowly in Ontario with some new association members added and some associate members as well. Encouragingly, marketing of Ontario deer led to exports in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Missouri, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Arkansas this last year, with healthy to high prices being realized. The reputation of big Ontario whitetails is obviously spreading!

Challenges to deer farming will not go away, but as this convention clearly showed, Ontario producers are meeting those challenges and securing a future for all future deer farmers. Be a part of the progress, get involved, and help make it happen! And of course, keep the phone lines alive with your new board of directors!

Randy Barks

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SWAMDPA CONVENTION 2002

There's little doubt of the longevity of deer farming. It's here to stay! Convention 2002, Saskatchewan's 6th Annual deer farming convention, had a pleasant uniqueness about it. Many industries need to create hype and dream-filled optimism to attract new comers. Many industries are in the process of damage control and rejuvenation with the securing of new markets and restructuring towards stable end markets necessary highlights. Saskatchewan deer farming, however, is quite simply the increasingly proven bright spot in provincial agriculture with a convention reflecting such constancy.

The Trade Show seemed busier than usual Friday evening and continued to bustle right through Saturday. A growing number of service sector booths demonstrates the huge spin-off benefits of deer farming within Saskatchewan. Deer farming is obviously not just something that Saskatchewan is really good at, but it economically benefits an amazingly wide range of the provincial population. Producer booths, the new "Producer Wall", and numerous taxidermy displays showed some of the industry giants and giants-in-the-making that have captured the attention of North American interests and created such economic impact.

Friday night was rather tame (though a few of us required external encouragement before turning in) and Saturday actually saw early arrivals to morning sessions. Perhaps it was simply an eagerness to hear Dr. Jerry Haigh explain how, historically speaking, deer farming is no where near the new and unexplored enterprise that it's portrayed to be. Perhaps it was anticipation of Ron Friesen's excellent outline of marketing musts that increase producer profile in a competitive industry, provide products of greater demand, and produce on-going opportunities to reap returns on your deer farming investments. Trophy ranching is presently Saskatchewan's main end market and, harvest up 56% from 2000; the demand for 150+" bucks far exceeds the supply. Rob Dunham presented an overview of the quality and quantity of bucks required and openly explained the profitability on his end. Deer farming and trophy ranching are co-dependent and, since economic returns are so available to both, we can only expect continued growth. To grow those big bucks, Murray Feist's nutritional expertise & advice are ever more sought after and to see where we're going nutritionally, Murray examined where we've come from. In our present drought conditions, nutrition specifics become even more critical to the realization of an animal's full potential. Serge Buy spoke over lunch and it was good for producers to meet the man behind the voice and writings that are so influential promoting the farming of cervids across Canada. Dr. George Bubenik, renowned zoologist from Guelph, Ontario brought a wealth of antler science and one-on-one was a wonderfully pleasant and informed source to draw from. What an honour and opportunity! Dr. Martin Wenkoff rounded out the regular sessions, expounding on AI (artificial insemination) of and the drawing of semen from farmed deer. With Martin's experience and personable nature, he can expect a barrage of phone calls over the next year. Especially noteworthy was a thorough explanation of the nutritional factor in determining the gestation period in natural breeding and AI. A few precautionary management and handling tips in pre-semen collection were also well-advised. An industry "Bear-Pit" panel provided opportunity for general questions and discussion while at the same time, a New Producer Workshop assisted in establishing "basics" and getting everyone off to an enjoyable and profitable start in the industry.

No good ol' get-together is complete without a feast and the banquet was worth waiting for. The food was fantastic, the conversation invigorating, but a couple other things really captured crowd attention. While Al Morhart thanked the Lord for our deer farming opportunity and asked a blessing on the food, he never specifically asked for entertainment intervention. Certainly Lisa Schill's dancing was a crowd favorite. WOW! Give that girl an audience, a stage, and a tune and you've got all evening entertainment. Apparently the hired entertainment had built their routine around an emergency-detained president and were forced to improvise with little notice. Ratings have already rolled in and it looks like Lisa's routine, "I used to Dance with Dean," will be booked for next year.

Guest speaker Hon. Clay Serby, spoke strongly of government support for game farming and the increased value that it necessarily brings to agriculture. That was encouraging to hear, but in essence he was "preaching to Paul." The well attended convention brought new, veteran, and soon-to-be deer farmers together and emanated optimistic realism from its very beginning. When that many farmers and agriculturally affected people get together who have experienced or witnessed the financial strength and stability of deer farming, it's sure to show in fundraising functions. The silent auction, live auction and semen auction brought in about $16,000.00 with noted and appreciated support from our Alberta and Ontario neighbours. That s a super sum, but the semen sale really demonstrated that deer farming is as dynamic as ever. Market prices were often exceeded and brought up to $1075.00 per straw. Volunteer auctioneer Grant Brunen of Warman did an exceptional job and bids came fast.

I mentioned a "pleasant uniqueness" about this convention and it really did culminate in the strong semen sale. We've had a year or two where persuasion of positives took convention priority as market corrections and lowering stock averages caused concern. This past year has seen plenty of challenges, but no longer do such "bumps" bring fear of a dying industry. Realization has set in that industry economics exist in strength and stability independently of the breeding market. As Ron Friesen pointed out so clearly, buck prices have never really changed much, so with reasonable breeding stock prices and a growing trophy buck market, risk is lower than ever. A convention of confident deer farmers and ranchers was, therefore, no surprise. Investment in a deer farming future is still clearly a Saskatchewan strength!

Randy Barks

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2001 - 2002 SWAMDPA ANTLER COMPETITION
SASKATCHEWAN OPEN

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2001 - 2002 SWAMDPA ANTLER COMPETITON
NORTH AMERICAN OPEN

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TROPHY SPONSORS

SWAMDPA would like to thank the following individuals who sponsored trophies:

Randy & Tara-Lynn Barks ....Deer Tracking
Kevin Bahnman
Mark Bencze.... Circle B Bar Ranch
John/Peter Boyko..... Glory View Whitetails
Alvin Campeau.... Whitetail Trails
John Kerkvliet, Rob Dunham & Harm Spangenberg... Canadian Whitetail Genetics
Jim & Connie Chaplin..... Rocking C Ranch
Jim Dawley & Jean Coates......Willow Hill Whitetails
Trent & Wanda Derkatz .....Forever Wild Game Farm
Art Evenson ......Lazy E Game Farm
Chris Gilbertson ......Buffalo Trail Game Ranch
Brad Guidinger ......Double G Whitetail Ranch
Darren Guidinger .....Broker - Wilbur - Ellis
Harvey Granatier ......Kelvington Whitetail Ranch
Stan Hall ......Golden Points Game Farm
Ron & Diane Junop ......Frontenac Whitetails
Ken & Sherry Kalmakoff ......Kalin Whitetails
Neil Kramer ......Neil Kramer Auction Sales Ltd.
Curtis & Sharon Lloyd ......Silver Stream Whitetails
Mick & Gail Manson
George & Linda Masse ......Trophy Tine Ranch
Marshall Miller ......Woody River Whitetails
Jim & Sharon Moir .......Moir's Mega Bucks
Al & Joyce Morhart .......Hartland Game Farm
Brad & Wendy Nielsen .......Droptine Farms
Gordon & Travis Pool ......Thickwood Hills Whitetails
Lucien Preteau .......Monarch Whitetail Deer Farm
Murray & Louise Pulvermacher ....Aspen Ridge Deer Ranch
Al Reiter ......Prairie Pride Whitetail
Dean & Lisa Schill ......Impressive Points Game Farm
Ron & Carol Schira ......Spruce Ridge Whitetails
Greg & Shannon Stimson .......Bryersheg Game Farm
In Memory of Don Taylor .....Taylor Made Whitetails
Greg Taylor Overdrive .......Truck Driver Training
Dan & Donna Tourand...... Majestic Pine Whitetails
Rod & Jane Wangler .......Wind Song Whitetail
Larry White ........White Birch Deer Farm

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DEER FEEDING FOR 2002

It was in 1994 when I had my first exposure to the deer industry. Fresh into graduate school, my project was to gather information on current feeding programs for deer, bison and elk and compare those programs to the nutrient requirements. At that time, most deer diets simply consisted of alfalfa and oats. Alfalfa was chosen because of its high nutritional quality (both in energy and protein), abundance, ease of establishment for pasture, and hay quality. Oats were the grain of choice for two reasons: the deer liked the oats (they were palatable) and it wasn't as "hot" as other feeds like wheat or barley and could be offered free choice. Minerals and vitamins were provided by way of cattle, sheep, or goat minerals in the granular, lick/molasses or block form. Producers in 1980's and early 1990's found that by feeding free choice alfalfa with grain concentrates, they could maintain their deer condition without too much trouble, and those that radically experimented reported some problems with hay belly (too much low quality forage and not enough concentrates), overly fat does and fawning problems (too much concentrate, not enough hay), overgrown hooves, etc. For example: One of the main problems identified in an "old-style" alfalfa/oats and free choice loose mineral diets (the key being the free choice loose minerals) is that while we could maintain a healthy stomach system with the alfalfa and maintain/enhance body condition of the deer with the oats, there wasn't adequate mineral intake. The trouble with nutrients is that if one nutrient is limited in the diet, it can hold back the entire system. In some cases, the feeding programs prior to the late 1990's were most likely inhibiting maximum genetic potential. In my mind, I often wonder how many great deer were held back from their genetic potential as a result of the feeding program?

Since the early 1990's, animal prices and the industry as a whole has increased in value and size and has experienced several changes in management practices and producer mindset. There has been a surge of interest in feeding diets that will optimize antler production and healthy animals, challenging researchers and nutritionists alike. Both producers and deer specialists have become more advanced in their thinking about deer diets. Diets have been discovered/formulated both through scientific methods, and in some cases, by accident and on farm experimentation. One main result of diet manipulation, if you will, has been the proliferation of pellets developed specifically for deer and simply feeding the pellets formulated for beef, diary cattle, sheep or elk. The pellets formulated for today's deer now contain nearly all essential nutrients (minerals and vitamins) when fed according to their instruction. Pellet palatability has increased thanks to the incorporation of other cereal grains and pulses such as peas. However, nutritionists cannot overstress the value in that regardless of what kind of supplement is being offered, it is extremely important that feeding directions be followed, regardless of whether it is offered free choice on its own or is required to be mixed with a cereal grain such as oats. Mineral and vitamin levels in the pellets are formulated for a given intake level to ensure that nutrient requirements are met. Coming back to pellets, it is my humble opinion that there is value in feeding a good balanced diet using a pelleted supplement. An alfalfa-based diet, with pellets offered either alone or mixed with oats providing adequate minerals and vitamins (as well as energy and protein) have probably helped with the surge of good quality deer that has occurred. In the past several years, I am constantly amazed by the increases in antler size at the competitions, particularly in seeing 2 year old bucks that used to grow 90 B&C antlers now growing 140 B&C antlers. Personally, I would have a tough time letting any 140 B&C deer pass through archery range without taking a closer look! In my opinion, we are building these bigger bucks as a result of 2 main factors: better nutrition and better genetics. By optimizing the feeding program, producers have been able to concentrate their efforts on good genetics, knowing that the feeding program was taken care of.

So this brings us to the years 2001 and 2002. For some of you who have read this far at this point, you may be thinking: "I am feeding alfalfa with oats alone, free choice mineral, and I am extremely pleased with my deer. Given the dry year last year, a lower price for the deer with the high price of alfalfa and oats, who has the money to spend on a pelleted commercial supplement? This guy is nuts!" And I suppose that is fair. In an ideal world, we could manage such feeding programs with cash to spare. However, Mother Nature has a strong influence on our ability to manage our deer feeding programs. Pastures do dry up, hay yields are low, cereal grain prices are high and supplement prices even higher. When living in Saskatchewan or western Canada, producers need to have drought strategies, and in some areas - flood strategies. Also, deer are not cattle and cannot survive on stubble grazing with some grain and a molasses lick tank. Deer are browsing ruminants and require higher quality feeds; thus clovers and legumes, both in pasture and in hay form are necessary. Good quality forage ensures a healthy stomach system and reduces the opportunity for hay belly to set in, particularly if one reduces the level of grain/supplement in the diet. In tough years, the first feed that tends to get examined and dropped from the ration is the supplement, and yet that is one of the most critical ingredients in the diet.

Therefore for tough years when pastures are dry and not producing, strategies such as stockpiling forage supplies (alfalfas and clovers) and balancing diets are necessary to ensure that forage quality and supplementation are in balance, particularly for the newly weaned fawns. If cutbacks in a feeding program are destined to occur, sacrifices for the adults should be considered first with no room for sacrifice for the fawns. Remember, it is the first 18 months of life that give the fawn its best chance to grow and develop. Stunting the growth of a fawn when it is young most likely will have repercussions on its adult life.

In closing, I have mixed feelings about feeding deer for 2002. Given the dry season that we have experienced in the prairies this past year and may experience in 2002, can we afford to feed a lower quality diet (similar to our diets from the 1980's and early 1990's) and potentially restrict the genetic potential exhibited by the deer, potentially devaluing them? Or can we physically afford to hold off the banker and feed the higher priced ration in hopes of producing a superior product that doesn't compromise the value of the animal? These are tough questions during a time when there are no easy answers. In the end, all we can hope for is a fair shake in the spring.

Murray Feist
Nutritionally Speaking
Feed Industry Development Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

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BACK TO BASICS: SEASONAL CYCLES

One of the most remarkable adaptations of deer is their strongly seasonal metabolic cycle. The trait clearly has adaptive significance but many questions remain to be answered. This installment of Back to Basics describes these cycles, efforts to manipulate them, and how to turn them to our advantage.

Nature of cycles

Seasonal cycles of body weight and condition once were assumed to be the result of quality and availability of natural foods until scientists at the University of British Columbia in the 1960s and 70s showed that cycles of appetite and growth were related to day-length. Working with black-tailed deer sourced from Alaska to California, Dr. John Bandy and his colleagues showed a progressive synchronization among several subspecies to the photoperiod of Vancouver.

Further research at the University of British Columbia, University of New Hampshire and elsewhere showed seasonal cycles of energy expenditures also changed with the seasons corresponding roughly to the appetite and growth cycle. The widely-accepted notion was that metabolism declined in winter as an adaptation to scarce winter food supplies. However, certain doubts remained as it was discovered that, compared to most other animals, summer expenditures were very high and winter values were quite in line with the metabolic rates of other species. Adaptation now is understood to be related more to capitalizing on the brief flush of summer vegetation rather than coasting through leaner times of winter.

Growth, appetite and energy expenditures are inter-related. Energy available for productive purposes such as growth should be related mathematically to the difference between energy intake and energy expenditure. However, the complication is that energy intake primes metabolism so efficiency of energy use declines as intake increases. For scientific studies, this means that the effects of previous nutrition must be controlled through standardized nutrition and fasting.

The basal metabolic rate of humans is easily standardized by a brief fast but the large rumen of deer and other herbivores is not cleared with even long fasts so standardization is achieved by a nominal 72 hour fast. This minimizes the heat generated by digestion and nutrient metabolism but does not deal with the effects of nutrition on tissue metabolism. Strict standardization requires a 4-6 week of prior feeding at levels which hold body weight changes close to zero. This effect of feeding level raised doubts that the energy cycle was simply a reflection of a seasonal appetite cycle.

The question of whether appetite or metabolism is the primary driver has to be addressed in another way; namely, by determining the amount of food energy required to maintain body weight. Studies at the University of Alberta established that there is an independent annual cycle of metabolic demand.

Although energy expenditures, appetite and growth are high in summer and low in winter, there is some evidence that these cycles are slightly out of phase. This shift may cause periods of unexpected weight loss in spring and exceptional apparent efficiency of growth in the fall. Evidence for the partial independence of controls on appetite and metabolism comes from work on metabolic hormones. Appetite most closely follows the annual cycle of prolactin which follows day-length quite precisely with highest values at the summer solstice. Energy expenditure is associated with levels of thyroid hormones which are generally highest in spring and decline faster than prolactin in the fall.

Manipulation of cycles

Deer farmers have shown some interest in shifting, doubling or over-riding these cycles. In some areas and situations, such as New Zealand and Scotland, farmers are interested in matching animal nutritional needs with the quality and productivity of tame pastures. Producers serving the velvet market have hoped to double the sets of antlers produced each year. Others want to maintain appetite in winter to finish animals for market or to ensure that more young females reach their target weight to breed.

Shifting cycles is quite easy. For example, declining day-length hastens the onset of rut. Delaying the decline in day-length reduces winter depression of appetite and growth. Animals can even be encouraged to complete 2 complete cycles within a single year. However, some processes still require time to complete. For example, gestation lengths don't change so it is not possible to calve/fawn twice. Antlers take time to develop so the 2 sets although achievable are very much inferior.

Another discovery is that deer cannot be locked into any seasonal phase by holding day-lengths which are either short or long. An approximately yearly (circannual) cycle is slowly restored. Day-length synchronizes but does not cause seasonal cycles. Also, deer respond to changes in day-length rather than day-length per se. This is obviously necessary for deer species, like white-tails, that range from Alberta to South America.

Day-length is timed by the pineal hormone melatonin. Melatonin is released during darkness and is inhibited by light. This transduces light sensed by the eye to a chemical signal that can be understood by the body. This suggests a much easier way to control metabolism than manipulating light in closed sheds. To hasten the rut and advance calving dates, several New Zealand farmers started feeding melatonin in the late afternoon to create the impression physiologically that days were becoming shorter. However, other farmers not wanting to be tied to inconvenient feeding schedules (and perhaps misunderstanding how melatonin is supposed to work!) discovered that feeding or even implanting melatonin worked almost as well. Apparently, adding a baseline to normal daily cycles achieves the same result.

Working with cycles

Annual cycles convey adaptive advantages to wild deer. It makes sense to work with the seasons rather than against them. What is an advantage in the wild should not be assumed to be a disadvantage on farms. Farmers should first thoroughly understand how to capture these advantages by appropriately designing production systems.

The most obvious advantage is efficient use of seasonal forages. Wild ruminants are primed for maximal growth and production at the peak flush of vegetation growth and are able to coast through lean times. However, these rhythms can be modulated by nutrition. Palatable high energy/protein feeds offered in winter can stimulate intake but energy expenditures increase and much of the additional feed energy is wasted. This is seldom a problem in white-tailed deer but wapiti can be brought through winter in over-fat condition and consequently experience calving difficulties.

Compensatory gain is another significant advantage. Studies at the University of Alberta show that cervids with lower late winter weights grow with additional speed and efficiency when subsequently placed on high planes of nutrition (under favorable photoperiod). Fairly wide differences in late winter condition are made up by mid summer well in advance of the breeding season. Although suitable target spring weights are fairly well documented in wapiti, the optimal pattern of seasonal weight change in white tail and mule deer is less clear.

Farmers sometimes inadvertently work against the seasonal cycle, particularly in their attempts to develop a reputation for prime breeding stock. Preparing males for antler competitions usually involves heavy winter feeding. Because there is an understandable bias towards animals with superior size and condition, high priced animals offered at spring sales are those with suppressed cycles or that have been heavily fed during winter. At fall sales, the favored larger calves or fawns usually are from earlier birth dates. Because they are more often sold through an auction ring, this is a greater problem with wapiti.

Seasonal marketing

To remain competitive as prices for animals and products settle, farmers must strive to develop seasonal production systems that capitalize on the adaptive characteristics of wild ruminants. However, this runs against conventional wisdom from the beef industry where consistent carcass size and finish is expected every day of the year.

The obvious way to serve year-round markets with a seasonal production system is to offer frozen and processed product. Another is to offer different types of animal at appropriate times. For example, older males may be marketed in early summer, younger males in late summer or early fall, adult females after weaning their offspring, and perhaps young animals in fall. Recent studies on wapiti suggests that frozen venison is more tender than fresh and that mature animals are not necessarily tough.

Our industry should explore the practicality of seasonal promotions of fresh product along the lines of certain sea foods, fruits and vegetables. This may be our only option in the short-term because of the very high costs of sustained market promotions. The longer-term advantage is that it allows us to substitute products from different animal types and species.

The diversified livestock industries need to unite and to join producers of other heritage foods such as native nuts, fruits, seeds and vegetables to offer consumers a seasonal cornucopia of products from mother earth. Seasonal availability should be the central marketing story rather than a constraint.

Robert Hudson
University of Alberta

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ANTLERS: PART1

• INTRODUCTON
• ANTLER DEVELOPMENT
  • Pedicle Development
  • Antler Growth and Calcification
  • Mineral Requirements
  • Velvet Shedding
  • Antler Casting
  • Blood Supply and Innervation

INTRODUCTON

Prior to a discussion on the development and physiology of antlers it is useful to make a few distinctions and provide some definitions that may clarify the subject.

This presentation and discussion is largely concerned with antler growth in wapiti, red deer and white-tailed deer. There are sometimes differences in physiology, form, and function in other species and this article will not be all inclusive.

Strictly speaking, the term "velvet" refers to the skin covering a growing antler. It describes the fuzzy texture provided by many fine hairs growing on the surface. "Velvet antler" refers to the entire antler when it is in the growth phase. At this stage it is soft and lacks the mineralized characteristics of "hard antler" which is nothing less than bone. Frequently "velvet" and "velvet antler" are used interchangeably to refer to the antler in its growth phase. It is at this stage that the entire antler is harvested for drying and use in pharmaceutical preparations. The finished antler product is therefore often referred to as "velvet antler".

The antler pedicle is an area on the frontal bone that generates antler. It is a permanent feature of the skull and remains after the antler is cast off. It is the perennial source of the regenerating antler. In the following discussion one must make the distinction between the pedicle and the antler. They have some differences in physiology and anatomy.

Somewhat artificial distinctions can be drawn between the control mechanisms for the growth of the antler tissue and the mechanisms responsible for timing the annual cycle of antler development and loss. Hormonal control of these events can become confusing unless it is clear what specific process is influenced; a growth process vs a cycle event.

ANTLER DEVELOPMENT

Figure 1 shows the events of the annual antler cycle. The first antler cycle of an animals life begins with development of spike antlers on newly formed pedicles. Exact timing of entry into the cycle depends on the species of deer and the geographic location or latitude where the deer lives. After the first antlers are shed the antler cycle rotates according to the internal biological rhythm of the deer and its species and the day length in its environment.

Figure 2 shows how daylength affects the antler cycle through the detection of photoperiod by the brain and the translation of that information into hormonal control of testosterone production. Testosterone is the main hormone involved with the timing of antler growth events in most, but not all species of deer.

Pedicle Development

Antler pedicles develop in the fetus from osteogenic centres on the frontal bone area. They were once thought to be derived from the periosteum of the frontal bone but research shows the existence of a separate center that fuses with the frontal bone in the developing fetus, becoming structurally identical to the frontal bone. The pedicles may or may not be palpable at birth, but become evident at approximately 6 months of age.

Removal of the pedicle from the frontal bone results in the absence of antler formation. Damage to the pedicle causes abnormal antler growth and depending on the extent of damage this effect may be permanent, producing an abnormal antler in all subsequent antler cycles. Transplanting the antlerogenic area to another region of the body results in growth of antler tissue in the transplanted area. For example, experimental relocation of pedicle tissue to the tibia of an animal resulted in muted, abnormal antler tissue growth on, or from the tibia.

Testosterone stimulation is required for pedicle initiation and growth. Early post natal castration prevents pedicle initiation and growth. Testosterone supplementation to these early castrates recommences growth and stimulates pedicle development in both sexes. It is thought that testosterone is needed to initiate and maintain the changes in ossification occurring in late pedicle growth. In general, the pedicle grows by intramembranous ossification and the antler grows by the process of endochondral ossification. Intramembranous ossification occurs when new bone is directly laid down by bone forming cells. Endochondral ossification occurs when existing cartilage is remodeled and mineralized into bone. Internally, the inexact point where the ossification type changes becomes the antler-pedicle junction. Externally, there is a change in skin and hair type to that of the typical "velvet" of the antler

In the first year of growth the antlers differentiate from the pedicle to form "spike" antlers (hence the name "spikers" given to yearling males). These first antlers mature, clean, and are shed according to the annual antler cycle and a new pair of antlers is regenerated from the pedicles every year thereafter.

Antler Growth and Calcification

After casting of the old antlers, the skin of the pedicle grows over and heals the wound left by the discarded antler. The mesodermal cells, derived from the skin or the pedicle or both, multiply and differentiate to make antler tissue. Hyperplastic fibroblasts deposit collagen at the point of growth of the antler, forming a well vascularized and innervated mass on the pedicle. This growth continues in the outermost layers of the tip and differentiation of cells into chondroblasts and chondrocytes associated with the formation of cartilage begins in the portions closest to the antler base. Growth is very rapid; a wapiti antler is capable of growing more than 2 cm in a 24 hour period. Subsequently the antler continues to enlarge by the differentiation process at the tip and by elaboration of fibrocartilage underneath those portions.

The process of ossification occurs through modified endochondral ossification. It is endochondral ossification because bone formation will be accomplished through the changing of cartilage into bone rather than the de novo creation of bone by osteocytes. It is termed "modified" for 2 reasons. Firstly, unlike other cartilage, antler cartilage is heavily vascularized. There is a very extensive capillary network throughout the growing antler. Farther from the tips of the antler this network becomes sinusoidal, draining the antler through the middle rather than at the periphery. Secondly, cartilage becomes bone not by osteoclastic resorption and subsequent bone formation, but by becoming directly converted to bony tissue by the deposition of mineralized material within the cartilaginous matrix. The chondrocytes at this point become hypertrophic and exhibit alkaline phosphatase activity leading to the formation of trabeculae and the spongy reticulum characteristic of the interior of antler.

The reticulum is then strengthened by osteoblastic activity laying down bone on the surfaces of the trabeculae. (intramembranous ossification) This activity eventually leads to the hardening of the entire mature antler. The calcification and ossification process proceeds up the antler from the base to the tip. The thickening of the trabeculae and narrowing of the sinusoidal blood channels eventually result in the death of the bone and the typical hard antler.

Mineral Requirements

Mineral requirements for antler growth exceeds those for skeletal growth. Wapiti antlers grow at approximately 100gm/day, while skeletal growth occurs at about 34 gm/day. Mineral for antler calcification is partly satisfied by bone resorption. At times of peak demand skeletal bone is less dense. The ribs likely contribute the most mineral and the loss from these bones has been termed "physiological osteoporosis". There is little doubt that the diet provides the greater portion of calcium and phosphorous for antler growth and mineralization. However, supplementation of these elements beyond optimal levels does not increase antler growth beyond genetic potential in farmed wapiti or deer.

Velvet Shedding

Coincidental to advanced antler calcification the skin covering the antler begins to die. The exact mechanism of velvet shedding is poorly understood but there is no doubt that vascular changes initiate the process. Velvet shedding occurs at the same time as testosterone levels are rising and administration of exogenous testosterone will cause premature shedding of antler velvet. Testosterone may cause constriction of antler arteries which have a thick muscular layer, or there may be interference in tissue metabolism by testosterone, resulting in tissue necrosis and the biochemical events leading to arterial constriction.

Antler Casting

The base of the antler consists of compact bone that appears to be continuous with pedicle bone. The union is certainly secure enough to withstand the forces of gravity and impact from fighting. Microscopically, the junction is characterized by irregularly interwoven Haversian canals and bone spicules (typical bone architecture). The line of future separation called the abscission line is indicated by a narrow transverse band of minute blood vessels. Osteoclastic activity across this abscission line between the dead bone of the antler and the living bone of the pedicle is responsible for the separation of antler from the pedicle.

Osteoclasts and associated lacunae (cavities containing an osteoclast) begin to appear first at the circumference of the antler-pedicle junction. With time these are found at progressively deeper locations and within 2 weeks have spread centripetally into the center of the junction. At the same time, the Haversian canals have become wider and are lined with osteoclasts. These widening vascular channels are filled with connective tissue, which in the precasting stage forms a mesodermal pad approximately 1mm thick. Later, a circumferential cleft is formed under the antler burr, and connective tissue from the surrounding pedicle skin invades the space between the antler and pedicle. Eventually enough bone is removed from the junction that the antler separates from the pedicle. There are some behavioural indications that pain is associated with this separation. After casting the ingrowing skin-derived tissue fuses with the mesodermal tissue from the vascular channels of the pedicle to give rise to a developing antler bud under the scab covering the pedicle.

Blood Supply and Innervation

Knowledge of the vascular and nervous anatomy of the antler is important to the procedures for regional anesthesia needed for antler removal. Delivery of the local anesthetic to the correct blocking site is desirable for humane reasons. Injection of anesthetic solution into the vascular system is to be avoided.

Blood supply to the pedicles is from internal vascular supply to the frontal bones. The velvet antler is supplied by branches of the superficial temporal artery. Below the pedicle the superficial temporal artery branches into the lateral and medial coronal arteries whose branches then ascend the antler in the vascular layer of the velvet. A large vein accompanies the lateral and a smaller vein accompanies the medial arterial supply and these eventuate into the superficial temporal vein.

The nerve supply to the antlers is supplied mainly by the infratrochlear and zygomaticotemporal branches of the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve. In approximately 25% of red deer, wapiti and fallow deer the small dorsal branch of the auriculopalpebral branch of the facial nerve reaches far enough dorsally to supply sensation to the pedicle and antler. It is this nerve that is frequently responsible for the failure of total regional block when the specific nerve block method is used for local anesthesia.

Historically, there was a general assumption that hard antler lacked innervation and that polished antlers were in fact dead tissue. Recent microscopic studies showed that there are living cells within the calcified antler which are nourished though an elaborate system of canals transporting fluids through the antler. The same studies demonstrated the existence of microscopic nerves inside hard antler.

next in series:

CONTROL OF ANTLER GROWTH
Prolactin, Thyroid hormone and Testosterone
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF1) and Growth Hormone
Others - T3, T4, Prolactin

CONTROL OF ANTLER CYCLE
Testosterone
GnRH
Melatonin and Photoperiod

ANTLER HARVEST
Restraint Methods
Correct Anesthesia

ANTLER COMPOSITION AND QUALITY

Murray R. Woodbury DVM, MSc
Large Animal Clinical Sciences
Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Saskatoon, Canada

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THE MISADVENTURES OF JAKE & IMA

His bloodcurdling scream sliced through the night air like a cruel dull knife and the faces of all men within earshot paled with empathetic pain. Jake writhed in agony like an office memo in a breeze, flapping and flopping at both ends but caught in the middle. He couldn't endure it much longer! No man could! Ima was having a baby and Jake was caught in her clutches!

Twelve hours earlier, things had been much different. Oh sure, Ima was in labour, or at least she said she was, but Jake had learned some new terminology and declared, "Probably just them Braxton and Hick-up things we learned about in those pre-navel classes. Got those syringes loaded yet? How ‘bout extra needles? Better bring the meds too. You wash that hood yet? D'ja buy them flashlight batteries like I asked? Those yellow-ones are way cheaper you know. C'mon they'll be here soon and you still haven't got ‘em all in yet." It was TB testing and booster shot day down on the deer farm and Jake hated to keep his critters waiting.

Jake donned his coat, helped Ima with what he called her "tarp" and out they went. in a moment of tenderness, arm around his wife, he whispered, "Hey, Angel."

Ima blushed. "Yeah right. This angel wouldn't get off the ground," she smiled "That's for sure....No, I meant like Angel, that old doe that can hardly even waddle when she's pregnant." Jake tripped over something and landed refreshingly in the snow.

The government employee, immediately upon his arrival, insisted that Ima, in her delicate condition, sit this one out. She glanced Jake's way questioningly. "Ima, I need you," was all Jake said. Words dreamed of by most women were lost in present context and Ima got to work. Jake began to say something about the job of three men, but was cut short by "the look."

The handling resembled Jake's brain, amazingly smooth, and the trio were really in a groove. Jake barked orders (he'd apologize later for his tone of voice), Ima barked back (she meant it and would stick to it) and the technician did his thing, shaking his head at what seemed to be simply deer-handling chatter between spouses. They worked well together, though; he'd give them that, but he was increasingly concerned with Ima's occasional grimacing pauses. Jake was too. It was slowing them down.

"C'mon Babe," he urged.

She didn't need the prodding right now nor expect the term of endearment. A "that'll do pig. That'll do!", would've been easier to take and more expected, but she plodded on.

"Maybe it is real labour now," Jake admitted, "but we have to get done with the deer."

Suddenly, the calm crashed! Ima would later recall having warned of such mishap. Jake, later in no position to argue, would just nod his agreement. In the fading light, Ima had in fact cautioned that a light be set outside to prevent released animals from turning back into the well-lit handling room. Jake, anxious to be done with the last of the herd waved off her advice and continued. The next and final doe, sharing some female bond with Ima, set out to prove man wrong again. Upon release, she made two jumps, met the dismal light of outdoors, and whirled back. The technician gasped some warning and scurried to safety. Jake, seeing those sharp, black hooves flailing towards his pregnant wife, acted with typical male chivalry. "Get outta the way," he yelled and dived to the side.

Ima, in all her glory, stood her ground! Whether the 175 pound animal seemed so small in her present condition or whether a chemical imbalance had her looking for an outlet, Ima was nothing if not determined. She caught that doe mid-jump and set her back on her haunches. The lunging squirming beast never really had a chance with that much woman wrapped around her neck and with two men yelling in the background, "Let her go! Just let her go!" Ima turned that doe and "man-handled" her through the exit.

Two male jaws hung open. One large woman rubbed her hands together, glanced around the room in satisfaction and announced, "If you don't mind, gentlemen, now that that's done I'm gonna go have a baby!" And she started on her way.

Delivery had been delayed a little too long and back at the house an EMERGENCY was beginning to take shape. The technician had "gotten out of the way" and Jake had replaced him. While the frantic husband fumbled with this and that, and nothing of importance, Ima slowly gathered and carried her suitcases to the truck. Climbing into the 4x4 was a challenge, but nothing compared to life with Jake and eventually an unending horn blast brought the man himself. Figuring pregnant women to be much like "his girls" out back, staying away and giving plenty of space at such a time was probably prudent. Besides, at the last minute, he'd remembered that chores weren't done yet. Knowing it could be a late and tiresome night for him, he needed to feed "everyone" before leaving and check all the gates. Man, that horn was annoying though!

"Enough with the horn already! You're driving the deer nuts," Jake began as he leaped nimbly into the pick-up. Instant frost on the windshield diverted his attention to his wife and with an, "Oh, yeah," he stepped on it.

At first, the impatience and volume of her voice went unnoticed, but conditioning gave way to clarity when Ima threatened to slide over and drive "the thing" herself. Jake was really racing along, now half caught up in some fantasy about NASCAR, half focussed on his wife's plight, when something blurred past the bumper. Gravel flew and the pick-up ground to a halt in a cloud of dust. "What the..?" escaped Ima's lips as Jake threw the truck into reverse.

"Holy...oh man....did you see that thing?" Jake stammered uncontrollably as he peeled the road in reverse. Another slamming stop had Jake gawking out his window and Ima grunting through her second contraction in as many minutes. Slowly, her blurred vision cleared, the pain subsided, and she followed her husband's gaze. An honest-to-goodness, clean as a whistle, absolutely huge 6x6 whitetail buck stood statue still just beyond the ditch. A slap upside the head by an angry pregnant woman had both Jake and the buck ducking for cover and gaining speed by the second.

Sensing his wife's fervency, Jake grabbed his phone. Ready for just such a moment he punched the speed dial and hollered into the receiver. "Doc, this is Jake! We've got an emergency on our hands. We're gonna have a baby, she's in a lot of pain and I don't know what to do!"

"But that's way too early," Doc replied. "Is she fully bagged up?"

"She's been bagging at me for nine months, but that doesn't matter now," Jake cried into the phone. "No, the baby's right on time."

A moment of silence followed. "Jake, this is your vet. If that's Ima shrieking in the background, I'd call a different numbe