Deer Tracking Magazine Deer Tracking 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 November 1, 2002 Print version available by subscription! All articles and advertising in this issue are copyright © of Deer Tracking Magazine. . . and may not be used in any form without express written permission from the editor.

October - November 2002 Issue

CONTENTS:

Deer farming is a lot like driving a vehicle. There are rules to follow, some of which restrict speed, direction and traffic flow, but we retain much control as we remain in the driver’s seat. There are closely monitored intersections and there are long stretches in between where one’s conscience dictates far more than the law. There is also an element of trust. Some on this road may pose a danger to themselves and others, most of us cooperate in the reduction of such activities, but few would ever consider staying off the road. There are paved highways and there are rough crossroads and traffic jams. Basically, driving brings both freedom and responsibility, includes bad with the good, but allows those who stay on the road to reach their destination.

Deer farming includes a lot of rules and inconveniences. We knew that when we first got a license and stepped into the driver’s seat. Despite new signs and laws, however, we remain in the driver’s seat today. It seems that media hype and public perception of CWD, government legislation, and border closures have seized the steering wheel from our grasp, but rather they have broken the pavement and created a traffic jam at a major crossroads. As at any crossroads, decisions must be made. Do we forge ahead investing in AI, breeder bucks, better does and more fence or cruise with what we’ve got? With trade protocols increasingly in place and large-scale movement of trophy and breeding stock a bright possibility in sight, this may be the optimum time to invest. Traffic hasn’t stopped as high end breeding stock, lease bucks, semen and trophy bucks continue to move- rapidly in some places and slowly in others. Tension runs high in such situations when the road is damaged or blocked and the way unclear. Some, determined to reach a destination, will navigate necessary detours to properly access markets or charter new territories of unexplored markets, and lead others safely and securely to the other side. Some with great effort and patience will help direct the traffic of producers and rebuild the existing road of deer farming for an easier passage by all. Both types deserve a tip of the hat. Others, however, might monster truck over everyone in the path, convinced they can make it through, or perhaps a completely legal but equally exciting off-roads approach might work. Well, those oversized tires cause a lot of damage and long- term erosion of an industry that has required commitment and effort to maintain. A guy I really look up to, finding himself in a position of incredible liberty once said, “everything is permissible for me, but not everything is beneficial.”

We’re all on this road together; with respect and responsibility, it can be an enjoyable journey for all. I love deer farming and I cherish the people along the way even more. A rough stretch now and then will not keep me off the road. I trust that if we run into some problems, someone, without jeopardizing others on the road, will stop and help. Stay on the road, stay in the driver’s seat and enjoy the drive, friends!

Sincerely,

Randy Barks

Hello all,

Alberta has been a busy place the past month and a half. Since the August 6th & 7th  negative decision  by government on Cervid Harvest Preserves, producers and AWMDA  Board of Directors have been  labouring over the next steps, both personally and for the  Alberta deer industry  as a whole . We have  since met with the ministers and  the deputy ministers from both  Alberta Agriculture and  Sustainable Resources.  Our reflections in the midst of all of this were captured in the AWMDA Industry Development Position Paper - a compilation of member producers minimum requirements to address the immediate crisis and the long term future of the deer industry in Alberta.  This paper was presented to both Ministers and will continue to drive the agenda of negotiations between the Alberta deer producers and government.

Given our experience of the past with government, the gloves are now off - we will no longer ‘stay the [political] course’ as previously dictated.  Our targets include full domestication, market access for our antlered animals (within Alberta and beyond), and media/public/government relations (actively countering negative media and disseminating OUR messages).  The short-term goals are to facilitate a timely solution to the necessary herd depopulation for a number of member producers.  It is an uphill climb, but one that all producers and the AWMDA Board of Directors are prepared to take - fuelled by emotion and commitment on all fronts.

I’d like to take this opportunity to send a special “thank you” to all the members  who attended the September 7th  Special  General  Meeting of the AWMDA. It was a time to clear the air and for members to share their specific issues  with the Board of Directors first hand. 

Also congratulations to Jeff Neilson, Eldon Galloway and all their volunteers for an incredibly successful Heritage Food Festival Day. Hundreds of people enjoyed an AWMDA sponsored breakfast and even more had a taste of whitetail deer “Kabob’s”. What a perfect way to promote our industry. Thank you for all your hard work !!!

Until next time...... 

Jason Marsland

As we enter Autumn in Ontario we are experiencing dry conditions and I often remember our fellow farmers in the Western provinces who have been faced with drought and the difficulties of their market place.  Remember, these times too shall pass; may you have the support to carry you through the challenges you face.

Our summer picnic on August 11th had the Ontario producers come together at our farm.  A number of members traveled 4 to 10 hours to be there.  Thanks for your commitment to the association. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon to visit, watch the children play and get caught up on how each of us was coming along with our White-tail deer farming.  The sharing of experiences was of benefit to each of the members.  The Ontario producers continue to be resourceful and I wish each of them success.

I was pleased to hear that many Ontario producers have come on board with the Canadian Chronic Wasting Disease Voluntary Herd Certification Program.  As events unfold this program will be very important for your prosperity in White-tail deer farming.  As an Association we will have a booth at the International Plowing Match, September 17 - 22.  Through the Ontario Deer and Elk Farmers Association we are hoping to provide a Medication and /or Environmental Farm Plan course this coming winter/spring.  The Medication course will be a requirement if you plan to purchase veterinarian medication by Autumn 2003.  More detail on these opportunities will follow as plans are finalized.  An application for grant has also been made to assist the association in completing a video that would highlight best practices in Ontario Whitetail deer farming.  If the grant is received this will allow us to further promote our industry to new producers and serve as an educational tool.

Now that the daylight hours are becoming shorter, I can watch the deer come out from their cover, admire the growth of the fawns, and the hard antler appearing on the bucks plus complete a President’s Pen report all before retiring for the night. Life is Good!

Look for the Joy in each day!

Stephen Yantzi

August 10th proved to be a sunny and pleasantly warm day following a flash of uncommon rainfall the few days prior.  Most drove through heavy rain to arrive at Greenwater Lake Provincial Park the evening before…the perfect beginning to a weekend of camping! Due to bottle-feeding this year, I managed to take only the day to head to Greenwater. Most who stayed the entire weekend said that they would definitely plan on booking the summer meeting time as their family vacation next year as well. Late into the nights (and early mornings), deer farmers reported an easy-going, casual time discussing deer, having fun and forging friendships. Discussion is truly enjoyable when held with fellow deer farmers! 

Saturday brought the perfect day for the organized barbecue, trade show and speaker. John Gormley (from 650 NTR radio) spoke to the crowd of about 50 on the “Saskatchewan Attitude” which is often one of negativity laced with complaints, from the weather, to the farming, to the neighbours and so on. Although the Saskatchewan character seems to be good, kind, generous, etc, the “attitude” prevails. John cited numerous facts and figures to support his theories as to the origin of this negativity and feels that a lot can be traced to the “dirty 30s”. Prior to the 30’s Saskatchewan was the most densely populated province and experienced stable and enterprising economics. John recognizes it in “the King of the Coffee Shop” where out-complaining your neighbour is the main activity. Too little rain, too much rain…

So how do we combat this “Saskatchewan Attitude?” It begins with a pride in Saskatchewan successes. Oil, potash, diamonds, fibre optics, lakes and outdoor activities are just some of the industries at which we excel. Saskatchewan is a leader in many industries but has yet to really recognize and utilize its vast expanse of land for the greatest productivity. Saskatchewan has nearly 40% of the agricultural land in Canada. The province must develop enterprising ways of increasing productivity on that land. New and innovative crops, livestock and industries are needed, like deer farming and trophy ranching!

Fortunately, Saskatchewan has a government who is supportive of agricultural initiative and rural revitalization. But individuals must help take the lead and although it is government responsibility to steer, the people need to row the boat. To quote one producer, “stinking thinking has handicapped us.” Within this industry, individual by individual, let’s lead change by maintaining a positive attitude.

A small assortment of trade booths, always a crowd pleaser included “the Diner”, and a large assortment of “monster bucks”. Some very nice SWAMDPA products (great Christmas gifts!) sporting the new logo were unveiled at this meeting for the first time.

The day ended with a great barbecue of venison and all the fixins’. A big thank-you goes to those who helped behind the scenes and in the planning of a great, relaxing weekend. And as the sun set, and the Tracking van trailed off in the distance I began thinking about next year’s get together…perhaps we could bring those fawns along next year…but what about the goats…?

Tara-Lynn Barks

FYI: On a recent radio talk show with the Humane Society speaking out against Trophy Ranches, John Gormley opened the show saying, “…penned/canned hunts… but if you are a supporter of these activities, like I am, you call them hunt farms.”

Wildlife Genetics International is a company that specializes in parentage certification for elk and deer.  I am presently the game farm project manager at WGI and I had the rewarding opportunity this summer to travel through parts of Saskatchewan and Alberta to meet with several game producers. It was a great learning experience and when I returned home to Nelson, BC, my head was full of new knowledge gained from first-hand contact with the producer’s end of the game farming industry.  I also became more aware that many producers have some unanswered questions and misconceptions about subjects such as sampling methodology and the degree of relatedness that we can determine.  This article will address some of the common questions that I was asked during my trip. 

For more information, contact:

July Lenek

Project Manager

P.O. Box 274 (Mail)

610 Railway Street

(Courier)

Nelson, BC  Canada 

V1L 5P9

jlenek@wildlifegenetics.ca

www.wildlifegenetics.ca

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Exceptional situations call for exceptional circumstances.  This year western Canada is facing one of the driest and hottest years on record.  All livestock species are affected as feed supplies are in short demand.  Not only that, but the only feed available for deer is of poor quality.  To handle and maneuver through this year, a quick rundown on the deer’s digestive system is necessary.   By reviewing the digestive tract, we may acquire a better understanding of what we can, can’t, should and shouldn’t be feeding our deer.

Nutritionally Speaking

Murray Feist

Feed Industry Development Specialist

Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food

and Rural Revitalization

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The unusual is always interesting.  Especially for the trophy hunter who finds it increasingly difficult to get excited over 140 B&C-class bucks.  Oddities capture our attention, in part because the process of evolution has produced species which are very uniform in appearance.  One reason deer are so intriguing is the infinite diversity we find in the antlers of bucks.  In each buck, a combination of genetics, age, and nutrition recombine each summer to produce a set of antlers that are different from any rack ever produced.  Once polished, those antlers will end up on someone’s wall or in a rodent’s belly and we will never see that identical rack again.

Non-typicals and unusual antler conformations are always fascinating but the ultimate non-typical rack is one that sits on top of a doe’s head.  Many of us have heard of antlered does through the years.  Are they for real or just an extension of the old “Jack-a-lope” myth? 

By Jim Heffelfinger

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There are people in the world who nod steadily in agreement, who are careful to give politically correct answers, avoid confrontational issues like “the plague’, and always leave you with a well stroked ego. Then there’s the type who listens but freely speaks his mind, recognizes and adopts a good thing, but readily bucks a trend and decisively states a stand regardless of popularity votes. Meet the second type, a deer farmer who is truly out for the common good of the industry, but with perhaps a different strategy than the average producer. Meet Curtis Lloyd and his family of Silver Stream Whitetails.

-Randy Barks

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So what do you think about the Alberta situation?” I asked with trepidation.

“I’m putting up more fence,” came the immediate, emphatic and smiling reply!

I love spending time with people who are excited about what they’re doing, who hold to a goal despite circumstances, and who radiate good-hearted hope. It’s contagious to be around those who dream big and it’s inspiring to hear how such dreamers make big things happen through small things achieved. Meet a couple of such deer farmers- the ever- industrious Gary and Sharon West of West Ridge Ranch.

-Randy Barks

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©2002 DeerTracking.com

Content of this newsletter is the views of the writer and not necessarily those of the association in general. Tracking The Industry. . . reserves the right to edit submissions. Deer farming is largely experiential and while striving for accuracy and completeness, neither the editor, nor PRISM Web Design, nor Deertracking.com, nor associations guarantees such in this newsletter, nor do we assume liability which may result from reliance upon any information or opinion provided.

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.