Wildlife Food Plot

Establishment of a variety of plants that furnish food for wildlife.

How it works

Food plots may be established either within an existing crop field or in a separate location. You may simply leave rows of grain standing after harvest to provide food for wildlife over the winter. Another option is to plant a small plot elsewhere. These plots help wildlife throughout the winter when food supplies are in short supply.

How it helps

• Helps to maintain wildlife populations
• Provides food for wildlife when other food sources may be inaccessible due to heavy snow or ice

Planning ahead

• Will the crop you plan to plant or leave standing in the field attract the wildlife you want?
• Is there adequate cover and water near the food plot to support wildlife?
• Are you endangering wildlife by placing food too close to high traffic areas?

Technical notes

• Planting dates vary, depending on the crop and climate.
• Food plots should be planted on the least erosive areas of the selected field.
• Plots on slopes steeper than 5% must be planted on the contour.
• A plot can be planted on the same area each year, as long as soil loss does not exceed acceptable limits.
• Acceptable crops may include corn, oats, barley, wheat, and sunflowers.
• Reduced tillage or no-till planting is encouraged.

Maintenance

• Manage livestock use of the area.
• Do not use herbicides unless noxious weeds persist. If herbicides are needed, spot spray. Avoid using herbicides that would endanger adjacent seedlings.

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Last Modified:  10/26/2007