Land & Legacy - Habitat + Hunting

Early Season Success - Matt Tags Early! Sep 25, 2026

When Extreme Conditions Create Opportunity

Missouri’s early archery season opened with some of the most challenging conditions imaginable—extreme heat, drought, dry soils, and very little available food. Yet those same conditions created a unique opportunity for Matt Dye, who was able to harvest a mature buck on the second evening of the season.

In this episode, Adam and Matt break down the entire hunt and the history of a buck that seemingly disappeared for nearly two years. Matt first encountered the deer in 2024 around his home, where it was part of a bachelor group utilizing a strong alfalfa food plot. After disappearing from trail cameras and seemingly vanishing from the area, the buck unexpectedly reappeared in September 2026—right in the middle of an extreme drought.

The conversation goes much deeper than the story of one successful hunt. Adam and Matt discuss how agricultural practices, harvested corn, neighboring alfalfa, drought, limited food sources, and a small brassica plot all combined to concentrate deer movement. They also break down why Matt chose a particular pinch point between cover and food, how he hunted the area cautiously, and why a lack of trail-camera pictures didn't necessarily mean deer weren't using the area.

The episode also provides a great reminder that deer behavior is constantly changing based on available resources. In extreme conditions, properties and food sources that normally aren't important can suddenly become the most attractive areas in the neighborhood. Being able to recognize those changes—and anticipate where deer will go next—is a major part of becoming a better land manager and woodsman.

Adam and Matt also discuss the challenges of growing fall food plots in the Ozarks, why rainfall timing can be more important than simply planting a food plot, and how harvested crops can become extremely valuable wildlife resources at exactly the right time.

Finally, they look ahead at how the coming rain, falling acorns, changing temperatures, and shifting food sources could completely change deer patterns over the next few weeks.

In this episode:

Matt’s early-season Missouri buck
The two-year history of a mature deer that disappeared
Hunting through extreme heat and drought
How harvested corn concentrated deer movement
Using agriculture and wildlife resources to identify hunting opportunities
Why trail cameras don't always tell the whole story
Designing food plots to influence deer movement
Hunting pinch points between cover and food
The challenges of growing fall food plots in the Ozarks
How drought can shift deer within their existing home range
Why land managers need to anticipate changing food sources
Preparing for the next major shift as rain, cooler temperatures, and acorns arrive

Sometimes the conditions that look like the worst hunting conditions can actually create some of the best opportunities—if you're paying attention to how the landscape is changing.

Early Season Hunting Plans Sep 17, 2026

Adam and Matt discuss their early-season hunting plans and the food sources they’ll be watching closely this fall. From standing and cut corn to persimmons and brassicas, they break down how deer use these food sources and how changing conditions can influence movement.

They also cover bedding, access, staging areas, hunting pressure, and how to identify the right opportunities without putting too much pressure on the property.

Tune in as Adam and Matt break down their early-season strategy and what they’re looking for when it’s time to hit the woods.

Early Velvet Season Success with Alan Summerford Sep 11, 2026

This episode of the Land & Legacy Podcast is all about family, summertime preparation, and three unforgettable nights in the whitetail woods with Alan Summerford and his son, Reid.

Hunting in the heat of summer, Alan and Reid focused their efforts around joint vetch food plots, putting their preparation and patience to the test. Reid struck first, taking a buck on back-to-back nights and quickly turning the hunt into a father-son adventure neither of them would forget.

Then, on night three, it was Alan’s turn.

Three consecutive nights. Three successful hunts. And a whole lot of memories made together.

From sitting over summer food plots in the heat to putting in the work and making the most of every opportunity, this episode highlights what hunting is really about — time spent outdoors, sharing the experience with family, and making memories that last long after the season ends.

Join Alan and Reid as they break down the hunts, the preparation, the strategy behind hunting joint vetch, and the moments that made this three-night stretch one to remember.

Keeping it Simple with Adam Brooke from Veritas Outfitters Sep 03, 2026

With most things in life, we like to complicate things. On this week's podcast we sit down with Adam Brooke of Veritas Outfitters to discuss archery setups and how to cut through the fluff. We're talking arrow setups, nocks, new bows, and all things archery!

Tethrd Saddle Hunting w/ Josh Hillyard Aug 21, 2026

Saddle Hunting: A Private-Land Advantage with Tethrd

In this episode of the Land & Legacy Podcast, Adam sits down with Josh Hillyard from Tethrd Hunting to dive into saddle hunting and why this versatile hunting method can be especially valuable for private-land hunters.

Saddle hunting has changed the way many hunters approach the woods, giving them the ability to hunt from trees that traditional stands simply can’t access. For private-land landowners, that mobility can be a major advantage when it comes to hunting specific deer movement patterns, accessing difficult terrain, and taking advantage of the habitat improvements they’ve worked so hard to create.

Adam and Josh discuss the fundamentals of saddle hunting, what makes the system different from a traditional tree stand, and how hunters can use it to become more mobile and strategic throughout the season. They also explore how saddle hunting can fit into a broader land-management strategy—allowing hunters to adapt their setups around food plots, bedding areas, travel corridors, terrain features, and changing deer behavior.

Whether you’re already hunting from a saddle or have been considering making the switch, this conversation provides practical insight into how this technique can help private-land hunters hunt smarter, minimize pressure, and make better use of the habitat they’ve created.

Tune in as Adam and Josh break down saddle hunting and how private landowners can utilize this technique to become more mobile, adaptable, and effective in the deer woods.

Deer Season Preparations - Trail Cameras Aug 14, 2026

Adam and Alan sit down to discuss one of the most important parts of deer hunting that often gets overlooked: pre-season preparation. A successful hunt doesn't begin when you climb into a tree on opening morning—it begins weeks and months beforehand with understanding the property, studying deer movement, placing trail cameras strategically, and making sure your stand locations actually match the conditions you plan to hunt.

The conversation starts with trail camera placement and why hunters shouldn't simply hang cameras wherever they see a good trail. Adam and Alan discuss using cameras to answer specific questions about deer movement, bedding areas, food sources, staging areas, funnels, and travel corridors. They also cover the importance of understanding when deer are moving rather than simply identifying which bucks are using the property.

It's More Than a Fall Blend w/ these Annual Clovers Aug 06, 2026

When time is limited, make wise food plot decisions. Don't worry about what others are planting or chasing a trend. Plant a crop that gives you the best chance at high quality food over the course of many months. When you begin to allow in a diverse fall mixture for the annual clovers such a balansa, bereseem, and crimson clover to fully grow and cycle you realize that this food plot blend is more than a fall crop... its a 10 month+ crop. If you plant a blend with the right annual clovers added at the right density, you can achieve an extended life of food plot varieties, increased nitrogen fixation, and some quality weed suppression without needing to plant a summer crop. Just terminate the field and plant the same crop again. Food plotting is that easy.

Food Plot Management- Minimizing Variables Jul 31, 2026

During this podcast we chat with Land & Legacy consultant Alan Summerford about the management of his properties. We discuss distinct management strategies that produce results, simplify maintenance, and ensure success despite unknown variables that any growing season can throw your way. Some of the topics we cover include pre-emergents, herbicides, mowing food plots, amending food plots, herbicide proficiency, and producing high quality forage during the hunting season. Additionally, we discuss common themes observed during recent consulting trips. Similar trends appear in successes. Its not uncommon to see some folks who excel in food plots, but struggle with native habitat as well as the inverse: those who do great with a chainsaw and a drip torch but struggle with food plots. Both are necessary skills to hone and really take your property to the next level.

Nocturnal Bucks: No More with this Addition Jul 24, 2026

On the Whitetail Properties Youtube page, weve dropped two recent videos discussing the age old problem of nocturnal bucks. We discuss in depth why this is the common thought and also solutions to fix it. There is some great interaction regarding these videos on Youtube. So, we decided to take it a step further and dive deep into the why and how of this common problem for whitetail hunters. Cover is key, not food. In these two videos, we discuss not only how to place bedding thickets on a property but also how to create them. It is key to identify the problem, diagnose it properly, and then provide the correct remedy. Bedding thickets in proper locations is key. This solution requires elbow grease, but it is long term and incredibly impactful when executed properly. Take the right steps before the season to make a long lasting impact.

Fire, Refining, and Pruning with Brad Lotz Jul 16, 2026

During this podcast, you will hear the ins and outs of God's design in Creation and how it speaks to those who listen closely and observe carefully. Many of the parables from the Gospels reference common themes in nature or tools in a land manager's toolbox, such as fire, sowing seeds, pruning, etc.. We hope this podcast illuminates the deeper connection between the natural world and your spiritual connection with God, the Creator. Don't just perform the tasks associated with working the land, there is more to grasp and yield from it. Take time to really consider what draws you to the natural world, the lessons it holds, and God himself. If you have questions please reach out, we'd be happy to pray for you! Enjoy.Learn.Share!

What Thermal Drone Surveys Reveal About Your Deer Herd | Featuring Jack Huston of Midwest Deer Surveys Jul 09, 2026

What if everything you thought you knew about your deer herd was wrong?

This week on the Land & Legacy Podcast, Adam sits down with Jack Huston, founder of Midwest Deer Surveys, to discuss what thousands of thermal drone flights across hundreds of hunting properties have revealed about whitetail management. Jack has surveyed more than 500 farms covering hundreds of thousands of acres, using thermal drone technology to provide landowners with accurate deer density estimates, buck-to-doe ratios, property mapping, and herd health analysis.

Together, Adam and Jack dive into why so many properties are carrying far more deer than they should, how excessive deer densities suppress habitat quality and antler potential, and why proper doe harvest remains one of the most overlooked tools in wildlife management. The conversation explores the relationship between habitat improvement and herd management, emphasizing that neither can reach its full potential without the other.

The discussion also covers the advantages of thermal drone surveys over traditional trail camera inventories, common mistakes landowners make when estimating deer numbers, and how objective data can remove emotion from management decisions. Whether you're managing 40 acres or 4,000, understanding what's truly living on your property is the first step toward creating healthier habitat, producing older age-class bucks, and building a sustainable deer herd.

If you're serious about improving your property and making informed management decisions instead of educated guesses, this episode is packed with practical insights backed by real-world observations from hundreds of farms across the Midwest.

Which State Regs are the Best? Jul 02, 2026

On this week's podcast we discuss many of the variations of state hunting regulations that hunters face across the country. Many hunters don't factor in the state regulations into decisions they make before buying land, however you need too! Topics covered include season open dates, CWD regulations, buck harvest limits, doe harvest opportunities, hunter density, and many more influential factors. Hunters need to evaluate these factors, as they will dramatically influence the average deer herd that you may be trying to grow mature bucks in. So plan accordingly! Enjoy.Share.Learn!

New Product Alert with Orion Solutions Jun 26, 2026

Herbicides are one of the most powerful tools available to landowners, but they can also be one of the most confusing. In this episode, Adam and Matt sit down with Travis and Dan from Orion Solutions to discuss the launch of the new Land & Legacy Guide to Herbicide Use and why understanding herbicides is critical for anyone looking to improve wildlife habitat, increase native plant diversity, establish successful food plots, or control invasive species.

Drawing from years of consulting experience across the country, they break down common herbicide mistakes, explain how to select the right products for specific management goals, and discuss the importance of application timing, rates, and techniques. Whether you're battling invasive brush, restoring native grasslands, managing timber stands, or simply trying to grow a cleaner food plot, this guide was created to simplify the process and give landowners a practical resource they can use in the field.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by herbicide labels or unsure about what product to use and when, this episode—and this guide—will help take the guesswork out of habitat management and put you on a path toward healthier landscapes and better wildlife populations.

No Mow May, No Mow June, No MOW* Turkeys! Jun 19, 2026

Turkey season may be behind us, but the real habitat work is just getting started. In this week's Land & Legacy podcast, Adam and Chad discuss what they've observed since the season closed and how those observations continue to reinforce the importance of active habitat management.

One of the most noticeable changes has been the return of turkeys to the farm after neighboring properties stopped illegally baiting birds during the season. It's another reminder that turkey movements and behavior can be heavily influenced by concentrated food sources. Once those artificial attractants disappeared, birds quickly shifted back to utilizing quality habitat—areas providing natural forage, nesting cover, brood habitat, and security.

The discussion also centers around the growing need for additional prescribed fire across the landscape. While many properties have seen improvements from previous burns, the reality is that much of the habitat has already begun to lose the open ground conditions, diverse plant communities, and insect-rich environments that turkeys depend on. Fire remains one of the most effective tools available for resetting succession, stimulating native plant growth, increasing bug production, and maintaining quality nesting and brood-rearing habitat.

A major topic of conversation is the growing popularity of "No Mow May" and "No Mow June" campaigns. While well-intentioned, Adam and Chad explain why simply not mowing is often being promoted as a habitat solution when it does little to address the real limitations facing wild turkeys. Allowing cool-season grasses and weedy lawns to grow taller for a few weeks does not create quality nesting cover, brood habitat, or the diverse native plant communities needed for long-term turkey recovery. The focus should instead be on active habitat management practices such as prescribed fire, timber management, native vegetation establishment, grazing strategies, and invasive species control.

Throughout the episode, Adam and Chad share field observations from their own farm, discuss current turkey use across the property, and outline practical habitat improvements landowners can implement right now to benefit turkeys throughout the year. If turkey populations are going to rebound across much of their range, the conversation must shift from passive management ideas to proven practices that create the habitat conditions wild turkeys truly need.

Whistling Woodlands: From Vision to Reality Jun 11, 2026

Every landowner has a vision for what their property can become, but turning that vision into reality takes planning, persistence, and a willingness to adapt. On this episode of Land & Legacy, Chad and Adam sit down to discuss some of the most successful habitat projects completed on their farm, Whistling Woodlands, and the lessons learned along the way.

From establishing diverse native grass plantings that provide critical bedding, nesting cover, and year-round wildlife habitat to developing productive annual forage pastures that benefit both livestock and wildlife, this episode highlights how intentional land management can create multiple returns from the same acres. Chad and Adam break down the planning process, site preparation, species selection, and management techniques that have led to successful outcomes on their property.

The conversation also explores how these projects have improved soil health, increased carrying capacity, enhanced wildlife use, and created a more resilient landscape. Whether you're managing a small hunting property or a large working farm, the principles discussed can help you maximize the potential of your land while balancing conservation and production goals.

Honest Review - Wealth Strategy Service May 28, 2026

During this episode, we review the Wealth Strategy service with Alan Summerford, who recently completed the program. This podcast aims to clarify the process and value this service brings to clients similar to Alan. This multi-step process offers clients substantial analysis, a financial eco-system review, and land evaluation. Our end goal and objective is to educate clients on the best way to structure their wealth revolving around land ownership. We hope this podcast reveals that a multi-facated team working together offers real benefits.

Simple Habitat Solutions - Back to the Basics May 21, 2026

In this episode, we break down several simple, practical habitat projects that can make a major impact on your property without requiring huge budgets or complicated equipment. Too often, landowners chase advanced strategies while overlooking the foundational improvements that consistently produce better wildlife habitat year after year. These are the kinds of projects that should be at the top of your habitat management list this season.

We discuss low-cost, high-impact improvements like edge feathering, timber stand improvement, native grass management, small water sources, travel corridor enhancements, and strategic food plot placement — all designed to improve cover, bedding, nesting habitat, and overall wildlife movement. Whether you manage for deer, turkeys, or overall ecosystem health, these simple projects can dramatically increase the usability and carrying capacity of your farm.

If you’ve been overwhelmed by habitat management or unsure where to start, this episode focuses on realistic, achievable work that almost any landowner can implement immediately. Sometimes the smallest changes on the landscape create the biggest long-term results.

Blank Slate: Planning Exercise May 13, 2026

Rethink your farm with us this week as we wipe the slate clean and re-evaluate how your farm works. This interactive podcast will guide you through starting cleanly, helping you understand how deer move on your property. This 7-step exercise will make areas on your farm stand out using OnX mapping. Future bedding thickets will be revealed, travel corridors and areas where deer are vulnerable to harvest will appear when you start over. New stand locations await you on the other side of the exercise. Mentally these are exercises that we perform whenever we walk a new farm. We see the farm with fresh eyes, no expectations, and with no previous observations of how deer use a farm—just the straight basics. Sometimes the path forward isn't straight; it may require you to take a few steps back, before moving forward.

Back to What Works: Building a Simple, Effective Spring Food Plot Plan Apr 29, 2026

Spring plots don’t have to be complicated. Adam and Matt break down a simple, proven system for building food plots that actually work—without chasing trends. Back to the basics, back to results.

Fantasy Land Management: When Habitat Advice Sounds Good… But Fails in the Field Apr 23, 2026

In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into what we call “Fantasy Land Management”—the world where habitat strategies sound great on paper, circulate heavily online, and get repeated often… but fall apart when applied on real ground.

Too many landowners are making decisions based on secondhand opinions, outdated practices, or “highlight reel” results without ever questioning if those approaches actually fit their property, region, or goals. The result? Wasted time, wasted money, and in some cases, habitat that’s worse than where they started.

We break down some of the most common false ideas in land management—things like over-prioritizing food plots, misunderstanding cover, blindly copying what works in other states, or assuming more work always equals better results. Just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s effective.

This episode is about cutting through the noise and getting back to principles that actually matter: observation, context, and outcomes. Good management isn’t built on trends—it’s built on understanding your land, your limitations, and the wildlife you’re trying to support.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re chasing results that never quite show up, this conversation will help reset your approach and refocus your efforts where they actually count.

LandBeat Review: How to Improve Timber for Wild Turkeys Apr 09, 2026

In this episode from the Land & Legacy podcast, the conversation zeroes in on how timber management directly impacts turkey populations—and why most properties fall short simply because the woods are too closed and stagnant. A major takeaway is that turkeys thrive in open, diverse timber—not mature, shaded forests. The guys emphasize that many landowners mistakenly believe “big timber” equals good habitat, when in reality, closed-canopy woods limit sunlight, suppress understory growth, and ultimately reduce the insects and ground cover that poults depend on for survival. The episode breaks down how to correct that through intentional disturbance: Timber stand improvement (TSI) to remove low-value trees and release desirable species Hinge cutting and thinning to create structure at ground level Prescribed fire to reset the forest floor and stimulate native vegetation These practices aren’t just about trees—they’re about creating usable space at a turkey’s level. As sunlight hits the ground, it drives the growth of grasses, forbs, and bugging habitat, which are critical for brood rearing. Without that, even properties with plenty of acreage can feel like a “biological desert” for turkeys. Another key point is structure and visibility. Turkeys need to be able to move, see, and avoid predators. Thick, tangled woods without intentional design can actually hurt turkey use, while properly managed timber creates a balance of: Open travel corridors Nesting cover Brood-rearing areas The conversation also highlights that timber work benefits more than just turkeys. The same practices improve habitat for deer, quail, and a wide range of species—making it one of the highest ROI projects a landowner can implement. At its core, the episode reinforces a bigger philosophy: If you want more turkeys, you have to manage the woods—not just the fields. Consistent disturbance, strategic tree removal, and a focus on ground-level diversity are what transform timber from unused space into high-quality turkey habitat.

Does Burning Create more Turkeys? Apr 02, 2026

Does Burning Create More Turkeys? It is widely known the value that prescribed fire can play in habitat management for wild turkeys. However, we commonly see folks burning during improper timing, frequencies, and/or in areas that are not ready for fire, meaning unthinned timber. Fire in closed canopies may actually in some cases make turkey habitat worse. During this podcast, we discuss the proper steps and directions for those looking to improve the habitat with fire for turkeys. Brooding cover, nesting cover, and overall better foraging opportunities for adult birds are all topics of discussion. We hope this podcast encourages you to take the next steps in your knowledge and application of your knowledge so that you can make a larger positive impact for the wild turkey!

Land Beat - INCREDIBLE TRANSFORMATION!! | 2 Year Bedding Clear Cut Revisit Mar 27, 2026

Most landowners overlook a simple yet powerful strategy—you can dramatically improve deer habitat and hunting success by strategically logging and creating early successional growth. In this episode, Adam Keith reveals the surprisingly straightforward approach that transformed one two-acre oak-hickory stand into a deer magnet in just four years.
Amid hectic farm life, Adam shares behind-the-scenes details of a fascinating logging experiment—leaving mid-story trees to optimize deer bedding and forage while minimizing habitat disturbance. You’ll discover how a gentle, targeted clear-cut, followed by prescribed burns and native grass establishment, can boost wildlife movement, increase browse, and turn your property into a thriving wildlife corridor.
We break down concrete tactics: how to collaborate with loggers for small acreage, the best timing for dormant and growing season burns, and the native species that flourish when disturbance is done right. Adam discusses a native grass planting project involving big bluestem, Indian grass, and little bluestem—an effort to convert invasive-infested fields into resilient, multi-use native habitat that supports both hunting and ecology.
Why does all this matter? Because in a landscape full of common misconceptions, strategic logging and habitat tweaks can unlock hidden potential—leading to healthier deer populations, better hunting, and more vibrant ecosystems. Whether you own 10 acres or 100, these insights will help you make smarter land management decisions—and see results faster.
Ideal for hunters, landowners, and conservation enthusiasts looking to improve habitat and wildlife diversity, this episode reveals the proven steps to turn disturbance into growth. Discover the power of thoughtful forestry, prescribed fire, and native plantings—tools that transform your land into a wildlife sanctuary, no matter the size.
Ready to learn how a few strategic cuts and burns can reshape your property’s future? Tune in now and start turning your land into the habitat of your dreams.

Turkey Research Priorities with Patrick Wightman Mar 19, 2026

The NWTF is doubling down on science-led conservation strategy

A dedicated research leadership role signals a new era of coordinated, national-scale research

Investments in research and partnerships are driving data-backed wildlife management decisions

Conservation is not just about wildlife—it’s about preserving outdoor traditions and ecosystems for future generations

Land and Habitat Chat with Brady Bradley Mar 10, 2026

During this week's podcast consultants Matt Dye and Brady Bradley discuss a wide range of habitat topics. They are playing 'Where's Waldo?' in the realm of where all the Land & Legacy Team has been during the last few weeks of consulting. The team covered a wide range of states, topographies, and ecosystems from sandy soils to rocky ridges. Habitat is going in the ground across the country. We also review some common mis-conceptions about deer herd dynamics, heavy equipment, food plot techniques, and habitat enhancement features that many landowners face yearly. This podcast will make you think and consider next steps on your farm! Every mistake costs you time and key windows of opportunity.

How-To: Prescribed Fire Feb 24, 2026

In this weeks episode Kyle and Frank discuss prescribed fire. They cover the basics of how fire timing, techniques, and weather conditions affect the outcome of the prescribed burn.

Turkey Research: What the Science Really Says - Dr. Brett Collier Feb 17, 2026

We’re coming to you from the NWTF National Convention with Dr. Brett Collier to break down the latest in wild turkey research. We dive into the hot-button issues surrounding turkey declines, tackle some of the more confrontational opinions in the conversation, and take a hard look at what the research actually says about predators.

It’s an honest, science-driven discussion about where turkey management stands today — and where it may be headed.

Duck Migrations - What’s the Hold Up? Feb 11, 2026

We’re discussing the highly debated topic of duck migrations and why places in the south have seen drastic changes in duck numbers.,, or are they? We’re talking with Scott Hicks of Whitetail Properties who’s been a long time duck hunter and what he’s seen in the world of waterfowl. Is it the weather, the flooded corn, or too many hunters?

What is the Best Cover for Whitetail Deer?! Land Beat Q&A Feb 04, 2026

Lets compare the structure of four commonly found habitat features on the landscape and see how they measure up in hiding a bedded deer. We're diving into the timber to look at cedar thickets, a bedding thicket, a thinned forest, and a closed canopy forest.

TSI - What Your Farm is Likely Missing Feb 03, 2026

During this podcast we review the dramatic transformations that TSI can provide to a recreational property. This often is the missing piece to many farms. They have drastically underperforming timber stands with regard to wildlife value. Yet, the goals of the farm are to enhanced it for wildlife. We bring in and sight multiple research projects discussing the value of TSI for improved forage production, then transition to discuss at length our anecdotal experiences. We cover some of the topics below in this podcast: -develops desirable layers of forest -understory, mid story, and over story - slow progression of a forest - Natural degradation - No disturbance means slow change We hope you enjoy this podcast and find value in the education of TSI!

Baiting Deer - What are We Even Talking About Jan 29, 2026

Have you ever wondered if the neighbors are baiting? Isn't that illegal? What are you supposed to look for if you aren't allowed to bait? Adam and Matt sit down with Alan this week to discuss the problems both legal baiting and illegal baiting offer. Ask yourself if given the power to outlaw baiting nation wide or keep it which would you do?

Wealth Strategy Service Workshop Jan 21, 2026

Our first ever Wealth Strategy Service Workshop held in Sioux City, Iowa August 7-8th. This event will teach you how to develop a strategy and detailed plan that transforms land into a living business that generates income, reduces taxes, and creates a legacy you can pass down for generations to come. This offering is an extremely undervalued event considering the price! You will learn about our step by step process and plan development phases that we walk clients through to set them up for success and create a legacy for your family . We have several highly professional guest speakers joining us for the event to educate you on business strategy, tax strategy, and wealth building! If you want to take your land ownership responsibility to the next level, join us August 7-8th 2026!

Heartland Bowhunter Workshop Jan 21, 2026

Spend an entire weekend with Mike & Shawn from Heartland Bowhunter, along with Matt & Adam from Land & Legacy discussing all things whitetail from a land management perspective while also implementing hunting strategy. Our Whitetail Workshop is designed to equip land managers with the skills and knowledge to create and maintain thriving habitats for whitetails and turkeys. Through in class study and hands-on lesson, participants will learn to enhance their land with strategic food plots, prescribed fire, water holes, timber stand improvement, diverse plantings and much more. We’ll cover how to plan and execute a habitat management strategy that attracts and sustains wildlife, creating a balanced ecosystem while lining this up with a hunt strategy. Techniques for increasing biodiversity and promoting healthy populations are central to our approach, ensuring each farm reaches its full potential. Whether you're new to land management or looking to improve your techniques, this workshop will provide actionable insights for success. This class will be similar to last years with the addition of MORE hands on lessons of properly executing land management tools.

Huntworx Workshop Jan 21, 2026

Ever wonder why southern Iowa is considered the big buck capital of the world? Here’s your chance to go behind the curtain and see what Adam and Matt consider the best farm in the country! This farm doesn’t just grow them, they are successfully harvesting 190” and bigger year after year! This could be a one time only opportunity to see inside the giant buck factory of southern Iowa! Only 20 spots available! Sign up today before it’s booked! Join us for Hands-on demonstrations with Adam, Matt, Greg and Kasey from HuntWorx. Live Q&A to discuss your specific questions Topics Covered - Timber Stand Improvement Edge Feathering Prescribed Fire Old Field Management Food Plots Bedding Thickets Stand Placement Hunting Strategy And many more!

Learning From Our Mistakes Jan 15, 2026

Alan and Adam sit down to discuss things we've learned over the years that can help you from having to learn the hard way. Isn't it great when we can learn from someone else's mistakes so we don't have to make them ourselves? A huge part of Land & Legacy is assisting landowners from making costly mistakes and this podcast highlights some of our biggest regrets in land management.

There is a Better Way to Own Land: Announcing Wealth Strategy Services Jan 07, 2026

For years we have watched landowners pour cash and resources into land and only profit from the recreational potential that comes along with owning land. But there is a better way to own land and turn that land into a business. We have been behind the scenes building a team to help launch a service that will help landowners develop a land owning strategy that will create a legacy. If you've ever struggled to understand how you can develop a strategy and detailed plan that transforms recreational land into a living business that generates income, reduces taxes, and creates a legacy you can pass down for generations to come then you are perfectly positioned to benefit from this service offering. We hope you see value in this offering and join us in the journey of creating a legacy around landownership.

The Tale of Three Different Farms - Herd Management Strategies Dec 31, 2025

Matt Dye discusses herd dynamics and deer densities on three different recreational farms across three different states. He highlights the importance of balancing herd density with habitat improvements. As this is the only way to see the farm's full maximized value. Farm 1 in Ohio, 959 acres, has a high deer density of 196 deer per square mile, necessitating a reduction from 295 deer to 110 per square mile over four years. Farm 2 in Kentucky, 580 acres, has a lower density of 111 deer per square mile and requires a similar reduction strategy. Farm 3, a 1500-acre timbered farm with high fencing, has a one-to-one buck-to-doe ratio and a high fawn recruitment rate, requiring a focus on reducing lower-quality bucks and maintaining doe harvest. These three examples emphasize the need for comprehensive herd and habitat management. Trophy deer hunting requires a fluid and engaged habitat management and herd management program. Without either, you will be lacking!

"House 8" Full Story Hunt Breakdown Dec 24, 2025

This week, we break down Matt's buck harvest from this fall on a 7.5 year old buck. This deer never was top of the chain and seemed to evade us when it came to encounters over the past few years. But, he was not shy on trail camera. A few years ago, a late season scouting mission connected some vital dots to the lease property. A small overlooked island in a river bed turned out to be a huge corridor and funnel. For years now, it has become one of the hotspots for monitoring bucks working scrapes as they transition from cover to cover or from bedding to cover. During a hot November morning, Matt headed to the island and had a close quarters encounter with House-8 . A stare down ensued, but the buck ultimately didn't bolt away and offered a great broadside shot at just 20 yards.

The Solution is Rather Simple with Jack Huston Dec 16, 2025

Year after year, season after season, next year will be the year that you start shooting does like you should. Forgetting that you are slipping further and further away from really growing bigger bucks. The pursuit of trophy bucks gets in the way so much during the season that you are so consumed by an objective of a single deer that you get further away from accomplishing the original goal. This is what we call the trophy buck death spiral. It's time to be honest with yourself and shoot does like you need to. If you are doing habitat management and not herd management, this podcast is for you. We chat in detail with Jack Hutson of Midwest Deer Survey about his consistent findings during thermal deer surveys. Consistently deer herds are twice the density that they need to be. That is a problem. It is in distinct opposition to growing trophy deer consistently. Listen and apply!

A 20+ Day Pursuit for "The Natural" Dec 09, 2025

On this podcast we are joined by HuntWorx own Greg Glesinger. Greg is known for pursuing huge whitetails in the midwest. Year after year he and Kasey Morgan are toe to toe with 6-8 year old mature whitetail bucks. These pursuits test so many skills that a whitetail hunter must have. This year however, tested patience and persistence as they went after a buck named The Natural. What made this year such a grind, perhaps it was the 80 acres of standing grain in the field due to a broken combine or maybe it was just the rut needed to take full swing before The Natural got on his feet. One thing is for sure, the removal of the eastern red cedar thickets across this farm has more than doubled the usable space on the property. Without a doubt, this project has dramatically improved this property since starting it in 2021. To learn more about this hunt, check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AddoCv7Im4A

How Are Trail Cameras Influencing Your Hunting? Be Honest. Dec 04, 2025

One this week's podcast we are joined by Land & Legacy consultant Alan Summerford. He discusses his recent success in the field with his son Reid in Alabama. They went on a terror during the week of Thanksgiving harvesting three bucks! Most would wonder how frequent these deer were on trail cameras to encounter this many target deer in one week.... the answer will surprise you. These deer were not frequent and these hunt strategies were very different as one area is peak rut, while the other area is 4 weeks away from peak rut! How was this done, you may ask? Alan and his son didn't rely on the trail cameras to tell them where to and or when or if they should hunt. The cameras simply told them what deer were in the areas they were hunting. From there, they used knowledge of the landscape, food sources, wind, weather on a daily basis to intercept these bucks based on the day to day conditions within the region of where the cameras had picked them up. They most importantly didn't wait for the trail cameras to reveal a pattern. They hunted!

Know Your Neighbors: Mark Williams - Whitetail Properties Nov 25, 2025

On this week's podcast we are joined by Mark Williams of WTP. He and his team have been developing deer management neighborhoods across the country. We have teamed up with them to help develop plans for these tracts of land to better the habitat within these communities. These opportunities are popping up in states like Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky. These tracks of land offer increased opportunities to have like kind neighbors. When buying random tracts of land, you are playing neighbor roulette. You just never know exactly what you are getting, sometimes it works out, other times is is the reason for eventually selling. Buying into a community of hunters and quality habitat will help control the unknown better than most alternative situations. If you have interested in these parcels or others like it, then please contact Mark Williams and his team!

Arkansas Hammer 8 pt Hits the Dirt! Nov 19, 2025

This week we are joined by Zeke Barrett of Whitetail Properties as he connects on a large home body buck on his property in North Arkansas. This story is a connection between quality land management and a solid hunting strategy! Habitat management successes don't always happen overnight, but sometimes they do. This is just the tip of the iceberg for Zeke on this home farm of 200 acres. If you want to share in the success and learn about your farm, contact us at www.landandlegacy.tv We would be happy to work with you as well!

Easy Habitat Work: Quick Results Nov 11, 2025

It’s the time of the year when bedding thickets really shine! However, it doesn’t take years to develop these areas… maybe just weeks or months. We have the receipts to show you! We’ve had several success stories and new bucks swing up in daylight cruising the downwind side of less than one year old bedding thickets. It’s the easiest way to get ahead in your hunting strategy! Arrange, place, and build cover in the right areas respective to access and topography and you will win! Enjoy November and the sweet success of putting deer on your back forty!

Client Success: South Carolina Mature Buck Nov 05, 2025

The client success stories are rolling in, one after another! This story comes to us from South Carolina, the land of the pines! So if you manage in pine country, listen up. After several years of intense habitat management Jesse Furr connected on a beautiful 8pt buck in a small kill plot, adjacent to a bedding thicket that had been burned and exploded with new early successional cover. This setup was not accidental! With proper planning and execution of the plan comes results. We hope this story of a successful hunt opens your eyes to the possibilities of managing habitat for specific outcomes!

Chubb's Harvest Story Oct 28, 2025

This week is the story of Chubbs! The hunt and management if the property are woven together tightly. You will hear how 1 year old bedding thickets and a timber harvest was this deer's demise. It's Hard to pass the best of the young deer when they sport trophy caliber racks, however it pays off when they get another year of age on them. Chubbs was a prime example of study, plan, implement, and execute!

4 Pre-Rut Essentials Oct 23, 2025

It is here, we have arrived. The pre-rut phase is imminent. Are you Ready? If not, this podcast will prepare you for weather fronts, morning hunting, calling to whitetails, decoying, accurately identifying target bucks, and letting you know likely places the mature bucks will daylight in the coming weeks. This podcast is a must listen to maximize your effort in the field during the next two weeks of hunting. Get out there, be sharp and focused!

October Trail Camera Manuscript Oct 15, 2025

Its' your last chance to get your cameras set before all scraping activity breaks loose! The peak of scraping and mature buck intel is coming. This podcast will prepare for whats next! You will get more from your trail cameras when you have them place appropriately. A buck should be active on multiple camera locations as he traverse a farm. You need multiple locations to help triangulate his range/movement patterns. Then strike!

Topography Breakdown Oct 02, 2025

Topography breakdown is here on the podcast. We show you through onX some awesome features you should be looking for on your hunting property. We discuss in detail treestand access, hunting thermals, wind direction, wind speed, morning vs evening hunting in areas with topography and much more. You will learn an immense amount about how deer use topography features as they traverse the landscape. You will see areas that they avoid and others they use regularly all influenced by terrain. Learn this and study it, it will help you become a better deer hunter and manager.

Topography: 301 Sep 25, 2025

Hang on to your treestand seats.... we take a deep dive this week into why topography is such an influential part of habitat management and hunting strategy. There is nothing that predicts and dictates what deer do more than topography. From influencing what native vegetation grows where, to how thermals work, and the path of least resistance.... topography takes the cake! If you want to become a better deer hunter and land manager, learn how to read topography! Once you've mastered that, then you can begin to understand how it impacts vegetation growth, moisture and how wildlife react to it as they move on the landscape. A great tool to learn from is OnX on the desktop version of the map. Use the exaggerated topography with the hybrid map overlaid to really understand how to read the slopes! This will make you a better woodsmans overnight!

Macro and Micro Variable: Early Season Sep 18, 2025

It goes without saying there are always things evolving or changing in the whitetail world. Early season may be the biggest change though. From testosterone changes, to territory changes, to food sources and then to minor pressure movements and often time drought conditions. These variables can be placed into two categories, Macro and micro variables. The Macro variables are the variables that all whitetails are having to consider or are being influenced by, these changes are more physiological than environmental like the micro variables. These variables alter, influence, and predict how deer will then move on the landscape. Therefore they impact hunt strategy greatly! These changes cannot always be predicted months in advance when you set your farm up for the season, so you must be willing to pivot and adjust or call an audible to your plan when it is necessary. Oftentimes, the best laid plans need to have audibles thrown into the mix to accommodate for these macro and micro variables that hunters and landowners do not have control over! This week we break these all down so you can become a better woodsman.

Step by Step Food Plot Install Breakdown Sep 10, 2025

We are back this week at the Farm Progress Show in the John Deere Booth talking about green and yellow John Deere equipment and how to properly install food plots with various pieces of equipment. Not every food plot gets planted the same way, the approach varies greatly depending upon the starting point. Are you starting with timber, or an old log landing, or perhaps an old field is being converted into a food plot. Follow along as we go step-by-step on how to properly get that food pot plot planted. Skid steers, tractors, and the various implements can get confusing, which one do you use and when? We break this down for the audience to create a guide on installation with food plots. We often find that food plots get more complicated than they should be. It's important to know when to sit down a piece of equipment and when to pick up a different one, whether that be clearing, grading, burning, planting or spraying! We hope this podcast helps you become a more effective food plot planter!

Maximize the Value of Different Land-Use Types Sep 03, 2025

This week we are recording live in the John Deere booth at the Farm Progress Show in Illinois. This event is huge in the agriculture world so this week's message is inclusive to owners of all different land-use types. From Ag-land, to timber production land and even cattle pastures, we talk to producers of different crops and how to expand operations and value land with some outside of the box thinking. It is easy to become singular minded when an operation is dependent upon success to hold the land, but oftentimes that singular focus can also be the thing that holds you back as a landowner. So, we breakdown each land use type and discuss the avenues out there for landowners to really increase revenue streams and find the max value in your land holdings. We hope you enjoy this educational podcast all about land ownership! Thank you John Deere for the invite as well, we will be back next year!

Meeting assets for NWTF August/Sept. are ready! Aug 27, 2025

August: What is the bird doing? What is the bird eating? How do I create what the bird is using? Growing season burning- What does it accomplish for a turkey now and in the future? Soft mast foraging opportunities- Diet review, hard seed/grass seed production flock congregation- amalgamation poult production, over the hump! Sept: What is the bird doing? What is the bird eating? How do I create what the bird is using? Hard mast production and foraging opportunities begin TSI- Best time to complete- Are logging operations good for turkeys? Understanding roosting locations/ advantages

7 - Key Pre-Season Strategies Aug 21, 2025

Deer season is just around the corner. Are you prepared or are you behind? This week we discuss 7 key points that you should be considering as we draw very near to deer season. From food plots, to treestands, trail cameras, and more we cover the fine detail points of each that will ready you both mentally and physically. It's time to get actually ready and ahead of the curve. As hunters is easy to be very reactive in your approach and hunting strategy. This podcast is designed to reverse that and make sure you are proactive in your approach. Don't miss opportunities, capitalize on them!

Early Season Strategies Aug 13, 2025

Deer season is upon us!!! Multiple states now have velvet seasons, but even if you don't have a velvet season it's time to start getting an inventory of the bucks on your property. On this episode Alan and Brady break down the strategies for targeting early season bucks. This episode focuses on how to find velvet bucks, and how to get them into bow range. --Trail Camera strategies --Where to place stands --Food Plot strategies that can be implemented now --Water holes

Top Priority Deer Checklist to Complete in August Aug 06, 2025

During this week's podcast Matt and Adam cover the long list of top priority items to get completed for the month of August if you are a deer hunter and land owner. In addition, we discuss bachelor groups of bucks and if you have them how to keep them, plus if you don't how to attract bucks once the bachelor groups break-up into fall home ranges. August is the make or break month for food plots. It's time to make the critical decision to know if you terminate and move on or if you just overseed for the fall. We break down the case by case scenarios to assist hunters in this decision making process. From perennial food plots to grain plots and even summer annual blends, we walk you step by step through the process of ensuring you have a successful food plot for fall.

How to Establish, Grow and Maintain an Alfalfa Food Plot Jul 30, 2025

In this episode, Matt Dye discusses the establishment and management of alfalfa as a food plot crop. He emphasizes the importance of proper soil preparation, planting techniques, and weed control strategies to ensure a successful alfalfa stand. The podcast also highlights the nutritional benefits of alfalfa for wildlife, particularly deer, and its versatility throughout the seasons. Matt shares personal experiences and insights to encourage listeners to consider alfalfa as a reliable food source for their properties.

Breaking Down Hunting Property Access Jul 23, 2025

In this episode of the Land of Legacy podcast, host Matt Dye introduces a new format that combines video breakdowns with podcast content. He discusses a client's hunting property, focusing on access strategies, the importance of discipline in hunting, and the benefits of converting crop land to CRP for improved habitat. The conversation emphasizes the significance of road systems in property management and concludes with a look at future opportunities for hunting and land management.

Prime Time Farm - Recreational Real Estate Jul 15, 2025

This week we take a new look at what recreational real estate should look like on the market! We highlight and talk in depth about a clients property that didn't last long before going under contract. We wanted to share this with you so that you know what a truly fairly represented farm looks like. Also, we discuss what Farm Tier this property falls under! In the video we highlight this farm's features such as hunting access, CRP, food plots and diversity of crops. TSI, prescribed fire regime, and more! This farm has it all, from the perfect living quarters to an ideal balance of open acres to managed timber acres. Review this farm with us and put it to memory, that this is what managed farms look like! Enjoy the podcast and reach out to your local Whitetail Properties agents for more assistance in your real estate needs. Farm Listing Link: https://www.whitetailproperties.com/hunting-land/missouri/putnam/putnam-co-mo-405-hinkle LandBeat Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfa8ugqN9-w&list=PLb5o-rUKMbQ7sCqhbd6Oo0pWq8A7MRVSW&index=17&t=4s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ci9P20Ad4Pc&list=PLb5o-rUKMbQ7sCqhbd6Oo0pWq8A7MRVSW&index=18&t=324s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKbhCj2qpb0&list=PLb5o-rUKMbQ7sCqhbd6Oo0pWq8A7MRVSW&index=19&t=328s

Part 2 Enhanced Drone Deer Survey Jul 09, 2025

In Part 2 of the Thermal Drone Wildlife survey series, we breakdown a new service option for those listening and entertaining how beneficial a thermal drone survey can be. We speak with Jack Huston of Midwest Deer Surveys who will be the contractor conducting the flights for this new service. His level of expertise, skill, and professionalism are top notch in the world of whitetails and thermal drones. It is our firm belief that most simple drone surveys certainly do answer two basic questions, how many deer do I have and where are they located? As this is great information, there leaves a ton to be desired. With more analysis and reviewing of the flights as they are all recorded, we can dive deeper. We can answer more questions about the herd trends, fawn recruitment rates, clear harvest objectives, habitat usage, deer patterns/property usage during certain weather/wind patterns. This kind of information will serve you and your knowledge of a property very well and for a long time. It can also answer, how well have my habitat improvements worked, are they being utilized by deer or bypassed? Thermal drones are great tools! You have to learn them to know where they shine and when you have to analyze the information to pull more value from the thermal flights. We are excited to offer this new service and allow you to continue to learn as a land steward.

Philosophies Behind Thermal Drone Surveys Pt. 1 Jul 01, 2025

During this podcast we start a short series on drone surveying for wildlife population surveys. the more data you have about the wild free ranging deer herd that you have, the better a herd manager you can be. Part 1 is going to talk about the methodology behind a thermal drone survey and why they are effective! In addition, we talk about the journey we took to best understand these surveys. To become the best managers, oftentimes we need to embrace technology and the opportunities that these advancements can provide while still remaining honest about their limitations or the skills or lack of skills of a drone operator. We talk in length about the pros and cons of this technology and surveying technique as we compare it to pellet surveys, trail camera surveys, and more. Tune in next week as we reveal more about the future of drone surveys and how you may be able to get our eyes on your herd to guide you in becoming a better herd manager through thermal drone surveying.

Scout's Motto "Be Prepared" Jun 27, 2025

We are always working on the property trying to enhance the habitat, or preparing food plots, but oftentimes opening day slips up on us before we are really ready. This is a great time of year to get the most important part of the hunt ready for success. This week Alan and Brady discuss what you need to be doing ahead of season, to get your stands ready for the upcoming season. Tools we find helpful: -Safety Harness -ratchet straps -chainsaws -machete -hedge trimmers -rope -wasp spray/bug spray Choosing the right location: -access -getting off the edge -cover!!!! -creating pinch points Types of stands: -climbers -lock-ons -saddles -ground blinds -kid friendly setups Check out the Mobile Hunter's Expo to try out the latest and greatest in the mobile game! Southern show in Dalton, GA August 8-10 Midwestern show in Wilmington, OH August 22-24

Buying the Right Property Jun 17, 2025

Buying "the right" farm can be a daunting task. Luckily, we have some helpful tips and tricks that can make the process a breeze, all the way to the closing table. On this week's podcast, Alan Summerford and Brady Bradley discuss what should be at the top of your list when purchasing a farm. They dive deep into the buying process and why there are certain things you should not overlook before you pull the trigger on that new piece of dirt!

How Drone Technology May Change the Way You Manage Your Land Jun 10, 2025

This week we have on guest Brock Knapp from Accu-drone Solutions. Brock is a licensed drone operator and herbicide applicator in Arkansas and Missouri. His business issues drone technology to manage farms and recreational land. Both for aerial spraying and seeding! We discuss in depth the tech behind drones, the upsides and struggles that drones have, the it effectiveness and efficiencies compared to normal spraying applications. Hills, hollers, spot spray or broadcast spray, these tools can handle the job with less waste, water, and time!

Late Spring Burns vs. Fall Burns Jun 02, 2025

In this podcast Kyle and Frank break down a research paper that compared late spring burns vs. fall burns and the plant response, deer usage, and turkey usage in those burns. Spring units created more forbs ,fall burns created more woody browse. Spring units were better for deer nutrition and turkey broods. Fall units were better for deer bedding and turkey nesting.

Just How Valuable are Forbs for Whitetail Deer? May 27, 2025

This week Matt and Chainsaw Chad discuss the ins and out of forbs and the value they provide to lactating whitetail and bucks developing antlers. We review a recent NDA article published by Mark Turner named "One Type of Plant is the Greatest source of Deer Nutrition. Here's How to Grow it" We get deep into the Crude Protein, Calcium and Phosphorus nutritional demands and which forbs provide the adequate % to demands of a lactating whitetail doe. Broadleaf species such as marestail, jewelweed, pokeweed, ragweed, old field aster and giant ragweed rise to the top of the list when it comes to nutritional value. It does appear that calcium levels and protein levels are rarely lacking, but the phosphorus levels are less commonly found met by forage values. Regardless, the true takehome value comes from offering diversity in your forages! Both, forbs and woody and semi-woody plants need to offered in abundance! Its not food plots that are meeting the needs of whitetail deer, its weeds! Promote weeds to feed deer.

To Plant or Not to Plant May 21, 2025

It's foodplot season!!! Most people are geared up and ready to plant their summer plots, but is that what we should be doing? On this episode, Alan and Brady discuss when a landowner should plant summer plots. It's time to take a look at your farm, to see if a summer plot will actually benefit the property. Summer plots certainly have their place on many farms, but sometimes they can lead us astray from what should really be taking place to have a more successful hunt. We've also included some tips and strategies that we use to ensure ample forage during the crucial antler-growing period for bucks.

Cutting Timber Holds more Deer- We've Got the Facts May 15, 2025

We've got the facts that point you to how quickly deer relate to the value produced from harvesting timber! A client conducted a thermal drone survey in 2024 before a timber harvest was completed. From May to October of 2024 the farm had its timber harvested by a crew, bedding thickets, heavy TSI, medium TSI, and Light TSI were all conducted through the harvesting. Following up the timber harvest, in early 2025 another thermal drone survey was conducted and the comparison between the two is astounding. It's not that numbers bumped largely, but simply the reallocation or distribution of resident deer are heavily selecting the logged vs unlogged areas. During the podcast we review a LandBeat video that highlights all of the amazing information we collected from these surveys! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-5vNHmDeQQ

NWTF Turkey Management Collaboration February - March May 13, 2025

In this episode of the Land and Legacy podcast, Matt Dye and Alan Summerford discuss the NWTF project, focusing on the management and behavior of wild turkeys during the months of March and April. They emphasize the importance of active management for wild turkey habitats, exploring the behavioral patterns of turkeys as they prepare for breeding season, their foraging habits, and effective management techniques to enhance turkey populations. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding turkey behavior and habitat needs to ensure successful management and conservation efforts. This conversation delves into the management strategies for wild turkeys, focusing on habitat techniques for March and April. The discussion highlights the importance of managing food plots, controlling grasses, and creating suitable nesting environments. The speakers emphasize the significance of diversity in habitat management and the need for proactive measures to ensure successful turkey reproduction. They also share insights on the nesting behavior of turkeys and the critical factors influencing nest success.

LandBeat Breakdown: How Not to Use Fire and TSI Apr 30, 2025

On this week's podcast we cover the nuisance usage of TSI and fire. We review a particular location that has years of fire and a round of TSI, but no reward to show for that effort. Why you may ask is a great question! We talk constantly about these techniques and how good they are! But, if you are executing them poorly or too frequently, the results will suffer or you can even go backwards! Wouldn't it be wild to know that what you thought was helping was hurting? We don't see it often, but when we do, we have to discuss how the overuse or abuse of good things can create negatives on the landscape. We are talking about the removal of fuel loads, cover, and removal of forage opportunities for deer and wild turkey. Follow-along on this week's podcast to see if you are executing well and effectively with the habitat management techniques of prescribed fire and TSI. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VRcFUDkkUc

LandBeat: Creating 3000lbs of Deer Food Per Acre Apr 25, 2025

During this week's podcast Matt Dye walk you through a recent Whitetail Properties LandBeat video. We dive deep into the details, steps, and nuances of the technique of old field management. These steps if done correctly can produce the most valuable food and cover on a recreational farm. Exposing the seed bank once non-native grasses have been removed is an easy yet incredibly valuable opportunity for wildlife. The main objective with this technique is to change the vegetation from non-native cool season grass dominated to diverse forbs, shrubs, and some native grasses. Ideally the composition is similar to the following over time, 60% forbs, 20% shrubs, and 20% native grasses. These acres will offer some of the best forage and cover for species like deer, turkey, and quail. Find out what you're missing when you begin to manage with a purpose and promote native species! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XyT8GanbbM

Wildlife Openings for Turkeys Apr 16, 2025

Sometimes it may take years to see the results of your hard work. However, other projects may be immediate. Matt and Alan dive into some of the most overlooked areas that occur on pretty much every property we see throughout our consulting travels. Wildlife openings can be a huge part of the success of not only harvesting turkeys, but providing beneficial plant structures that are conducive to raising more poults. It's time to start evaluating the areas of the property that may not be doing much currently, but with a little work, could be a huge piece of the puzzle to help hens have a place to take their poults. Wildlife openings should be managed in a way that removes any nonnative grasses, and focused more on promoting native forbs and legumes. These areas provide ample opportunity for young poults to move through and have the perfect amount of cover above them with bare soil underneath that they can navigate without becoming soaked from dews. The structure of the forbs and legumes also allow the poults to move freely through the opening with ease while also attracting a multitude of bugs providing crucial nutrition to young poults. When these areas are also in close proximity to good nesting cover, the chance of a hen raising a brood is really high. It's truly amazing to see how quick the wildlife will respond to the work we do. The creation of this wildlife opening started with spraying the fescue on March 2, then followed up with a burn on March 12. Turkeys showed up on March 13, and have been utilizing the fresh burn ever since. A huge part of the success of this hunt was providing an area that was different from the hundreds of acres of fields that surrounded this small timber block and wildlife opening. It's time to start taking a different approach to the odd areas of our fields or open areas of our timber. Every opening doesn't have to be a foodplot, and in most cases these openings can be the best strut zones on the property. A native wildlife opening will be much better than a mediocre foodplot, or even a poorly placed foodplot on the property.

Florida Turkey Hunt Success Apr 07, 2025

On this weeks podcast Kyle and Frank recap their recent Turkey hunt in Florida on a property that they wrote the plan for several years ago. They go into detail on what has been implemented since they were last there and also touch on upcoming turkey hunting plans in Kansas and Missouri.

Crash Course for Prescribed Fire Mar 27, 2025

Fire shouldn’t be terrifying. Smokey said only you can prevent forest fires, but the lack of fire is even more devastating on the landscape. On this week’s episode Alan and Brady discuss the tools and methods they use to conduct safe prescribed fires. Topics include: -what can be used as a firebreaks -tools of the trade -days you should burn for beginners vs skilled -conditions you should burn -timber burns vs field burns -how to get started doing your own prescribed burns

New Research Explained: Bedding Thickets Studied Mar 19, 2025

Matt Dye and Adam Keith discuss a recent study by Dr. Craig Harper on deer bedding blocks using hinge cuts and canopy manipulation. The study, conducted in Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee, involved 3, 10-acre hardwood blocks with 10-acre treatment areas and 5-acre control areas. Deer activity increased significantly, with daily detections rising from 1.4 to 7.5 after treatment. The study found a 435% increase in deer activity in treated areas and a 41% decrease in predator detections. They emphasize the importance of strategic placement and management of bedding thickets for effective deer hunting.

LandBeat Breakdown: In Depth Timber Evaluation Mar 11, 2025

On this weeks podcast Adam is breaking down all your questions from a recent whitetail properties LandBeat video. When it comes to deciding which tree to kill and which to keep during TSI is a common question and we break down how we decide on that very question. Be sure to check out the LandBeat series and ask your questions to get a further break down on here!

Strategically Evaluating Where You are Going Mar 04, 2025

During this podcast we review the importance and acknowledgment of the direction of your farm transformation. Where are you starting and where are you going? What is reasonable to expect with regard to your efforts to enhance the habitat. This week is a review of that process and stories from our recent consultations where we review working with different folks along the habitat journey in different tiers. This will help you execute and relate to landowners who are going through the same process.

Usable Space Feb 26, 2025

In this week's podcast Kyle and Frank do a deep dive on usable space and how it pertains to deer, turkeys, quail, and overall property management.

The Habitat Association - Improving Habitat is our Priority Feb 24, 2025

Today we are officially announcing the formation of The Habitat Association. We have joined forces with The Habitat Project, The Hunting Public, and Ryan Kirby Art to form a non-profit that focuses on improving and creating diverse native habitat across our landscape. We will remain lean and effective and turn donations into improved acres. All of our backgrounds when joined together form a profound coalition to turn our heads to the root cause of the decline of our natural landscape and the wildlife that call it home. Please join us at The Habitat Association to support native landscapes across the country! Become a member today and link arms with young outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to make a lasting and positive impact on quality habitat.

You Have to Let Good Deer Walk to Shoot Giants Feb 19, 2025

Adam Keith and Alan Summerford discuss the hunt for a deer named Cream. Alan's son Reid coined the name while watching a pair of deer that resembled twins, leading to the names "Cookie" and "Cream." The discussion focuses on developing a hunting strategy for a specific buck, covering topics such as: * Eliminating the guesswork when choosing your best stands * Analyzing historical patterns from last year to predict this year's hunting locations * Determining the optimal time to hunt in the right location

Timber Management Order of Operations Feb 17, 2025

Matt Dye and Brady Bradley discuss the importance of proper timber management, emphasizing the need for a multi-step process. They highlight the critical order of operations: "Don't thin unless you plan on burning and don't burn unless you plan on thinning." They address scenarios for both closed-canopy forests without invasives and those with invasive species like multiflora rose and autumn olive. For invasive-free Timber, the process involves timber harvest followed by thinning and burning. For Timber with invasives, initial treatment is necessary before thinning and burning. They stress the importance of patience and thorough planning to achieve long-term success in timber management.

Open Water in the Winter for Wildlife Feb 13, 2025

Sometimes the only way we will know is to try. In this podcast we're talking about one of the tests we have going on at the farm on trying to keep water from freezing during the winter months. The point of this is to keep open water for deer to drink. Follow along as we test this during the winter, in a time frame that most water sources near food are often frozen.

All About Screens Feb 10, 2025

On this weeks podcast Kyle and Frank Discuss the necessity and functionality of screens. From annual screens, to perennial options this podcast covers it top to bottom. Depending on the situation and scenario, we will help you decide which options and species are best suited for your needs. Screening is not just for the hunter. Screening can be used to increase daylight movement for deer and block them from long distances. If done correctly screens can have great impacts for the hunter and the hunted. We hope you enjoy the podcast and develop screens where necessary on your farm!

Sheds on the Brain Feb 03, 2025

In this episode Brady and Tucker discuss shed hunting tips and tactics. Why look for sheds, where to look, and when to look? From stories to strategy behind shed hunting this podcast is good for beginners and veteran shed hunters, with a big emphasis on getting your family outdoors and learning a farm through shed hunting.

Deep Dive Into TSI Jan 24, 2025

It's a hot topic right now, TSI! In this episode, following our "How to Get Started with TSI," we dive deeper into the weeds of timber stand improvement (TSI). We discuss how we utilize different intensities of TSI for timber production, turkey management, and deer management across the landscape. From the Deep South to the Far North, one thing rings true: timber management is necessary for healthy wildlife populations and timber stands. With hunting seasons ending across the country, we are hitting the woods hard this time of the year managing our timbered areas. So, if you have been on the fence about diving into the world of TSI, make sure to give these two episodes a listen!

How to Get Started with TSI Jan 14, 2025

TSI is a well known and adopted technique to dramatically improve the timbered acres on a given recreational property. However, most people don't know how or where to start. They may not feel comfortable running a chainsaw, they don't know how to ID trees, or perhaps they don't understand how to evaluate a forest in its layers. But, during this podcast we walk you through the mental game step by step process to truly and accurately evaluate a forest so you can begin to start TSI. Give this a listen and share to those who need help starting TSI. Once you start and see the results, you will be captivated, but you have to start! Break the forest into layers and think logically through the best technique and GO!

Hunting Success and Tactics Recap Jan 06, 2025

In this episode, Alan Summerford and Brady Bradley discuss their 2024 hunting seasons and tactics. They are joined by the buck slayer himself, Reed Summerford, who doesn't hold anything back! The rut is in full swing in the deep South for Alan and Reed; they discuss their tactics for the lockdown phase and post-rut. Brady discusses his late-season tactics as deer season is winding down across the Midwest and the bucks are refueling their rut-torn bodies.

The Full Season Pursuit with Alan Summerford Dec 30, 2024

During this episode Alan Summerford discusses his pursuit of a mature Tennessee whitetail. This episode is full of hunting strategy tips as Alan had 8 encounters with this buck before getting him harvested. We dive deep into stand access, historical trail camera information, weather conditions, food plots and habitat manipulation. Alan is a great woodsman and stays the course being persistent on the right days of the season to be successful. We share this journey to inspire you all and provide hope to others in the pursuit of a specific deer. Enjoy this episode and chase for a mature 10-point buck in the south!

Is A Consultation What You Need? Dec 19, 2024

During this podcast we break down for you the importance of knowing if you are ready for a consultation or not. Everyone is in a different place in their journey of landownership and knowledge, that makes an important distinction to whether or not you will get the most out of the process or not. You can be a seasoned veteran in the woods, stone cold killer, or new to the game of land ownership, but a consultation will still be valuable to you.

2025 Whitetail Workshop - KY Buck Factory Dec 10, 2024

We have two special events for 2025. These Workshop opportunities are fantastic learning experiences for attendees to get hands-on lessons of habitat management and hunting strategies. Hear it first hand for yourselves from last year's attendees. The Kentucky Buck Factory has only 25 spots available for 2025! This limited offering ensures a great learning environment for all in attendance. The lodge is incredible, it's time to book your spot and learn how to improve the habitat on your property!

How to Effectively Run Trail Cameras Dec 06, 2024

During this podcast we cover the basis when it comes to how to effectively run, setup, place, and evaluate trail cameras. The mis-use of trail cameras is often the origin for poor hunting strategies. Being able to use trail cameras effectively is foundational to a well developed approach to harvesting target deer with regularity opposed to "luck" We break down the absolute no-no's of trail camera placement, we discuss in detail where to place them throughout each individual timeframe of the hunting season, from pre-season to late season. In addition, we cover what a trail camera picture is actually telling you. The behind the scenes information that you should be considering from each picture of target deer!

The Hunt and Story of Beef Cake Nov 25, 2024

This week we share the hunt breakdown and story behind a buck we called Beef Cake. This buck was appropriately named based off his appearance and mature body characteristics. We later find out, he acted like a Beef Cake as well. This story goes back to the early summer as Tucker and Matt put out trail cameras on a new lease. Beef Cake was the first and about the only mature deer to show himself all summer long. This deer was also the first buck we laid eyes on during our first hunt on the new lease. Despite being a smaller racked mature deer, he fit the bill for November hunt and a refined herd management strategy for this property. We break down this strategy as we witnessed some very defined and aggressive behavior to other younger bucks he would encounter. To learn more about this strategy, be sure to listen to the podcast.

Whitetail Workshop Announcement: Heartland Bowhunter - 2025 Nov 18, 2024

We are thrilled to announce a 2025 offering to you all. We have partnered with Heartland Bowhunter for a one of a kind event at their farm in North Missouri. The event will be a 2.5-day Whitetail Workshop event, May 31- June 2nd, 2025. We are capping the event at 30 people to keep it a very manageable learning environment for all attendees. The design of this event is to showcase how habitat design and a hunting strategy is interwoven. We will be reviewing successful hunts from Heartland Bowhunter, then walking you through the design, layout, implementation, and ways to further improve these setups. You will get immersed throughout the property and see where several hunts have taken place. If you have wondered how we turn good farms into great farms, then this event is for you. To register and take advantage of the early bird pricing, be sure to follow the link below to register. Remember there are only 30 spots available, these will go quickly! We hope to see you all at this wonderful event to take your woodsmanship skills to a whole new level! Registration Link: https://heartlandbowhunter.com/pages/whitetail-workshop

LandBeat Breakdown: The #1 Gun Hunting Mistake and How to Fix it! Nov 12, 2024

On this week's podcast, we breakdown a LandBeat video discussing the missing aspects of most gun hunting setups. Evaluating gun hunting seasons and deer behavior is critical for your success during this portion of the season. Many firearm seasons overlap with peak estrous, if so, you need to have your eyes overlooking dense bedding cover. We examine the different ecoregions of the country and chat through the different habitat types that should be strongly considered when hunting with a firearm in hand. Most deer behavior at this time of the year revolves around bedding or secure cover. Does are seeking it, and therefore bucks will follow suit. Even if you remove the rutting behavior from the equation, the excess human pressure during gun season drives deer to seek dense cover. Long range views into cover is key! Watch the LandBeat video here are this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwS7XgcsE3Y

Brady Harvests a Mature Midwestern 9 Point Nov 05, 2024

This week we catch up with Land & Legacy consultant Brady Bradley as he fills his archery tag on a mature Missouri buck. We break down this hunt from start to finish from tactics, access, transitions, acorn crops, and pre-rut behavior. This hunt was action packed from the pre-dawn light until the arrow was released. Brady is a fine woodsman and a persistent hunter when his time allows. This combination is deadly, even when time is limited, waiting for quality opportunities is key. Oftentimes it's not how frequently you hunt, rather how quality are the days in which you do take to go will be the determining factors for your success.

S&F Recovering your Trophy Nov 04, 2024

We've spent all summer waiting for season to open preparing for that buck to give us a shot, but what should we do after the shot? What if there is no blood or the blood trail ends before we find our deer? Today we set down with two top notch blood dog trackers, Brent Taylor and Heath Devazier from East Arkansas Wounded Game Recovery to discuss recovering your trophy and common mistakes they see hunters make.

Where Should I Hunt This Week? Oct 29, 2024

On this week's podcast, Alan and Matt sit down to discuss the current weather patterns, acorn crop, drought, and winds we've experienced this season. To say the least, in our respective regions, there have been some challenges to contend with. But, as we look ahead and use our woodsmanship skills, there is hope for an increase in deer activity as the pre-rut phase descends upon us rapidly.

We review the key features to look for in weather, topography, and deer activity to make the most of this time frame. Field edges, saddles, creek crossings, bedding thickets and benches are key. Focus efforts in the mid to late mornings as well. This is when cruising/seeking from bucks will be peaking.

Be safe and enjoy your time outdoors! Use all your woodsmanship skills to maximize your time afield.

Connecting the Dots Through God's Creation Oct 21, 2024

During this podcast we connect the dots between experiencing God's creation from a deer stand and taking it a step further acknowledging his power, divinity, his desire for a relationship with you. This is a deep conversation with our Pastor, Brad Lotz. Our prayer is that you listen to this podcast with an open heart and mind prior to spending your fall or rutcation in a deer stand.

Year after year we hear people discuss how they feel connected or at peace in a deer stand, but that is as far as the "spiritual side" of things go, but God desires more and we know you do too.

A few key takeaways from this podcast are 1) God loves us and gifted us his Creation to enjoy, connect, and have dominion over. 2) God pursues us through his Creation. 3) You should be humbled and in awe at the magnitude of his Creation and how you are just a speck among it. 4) God is mighty and big, and this is a good thing. 5) If you feel connected outside, it's because God is pursuing YOU!

Please listen and share with the outdoorsmen, hunter, and friend who needs to hear this message. Remember to respond to Jesus if he tugs at your heart!

Creating Soft Edges is a Breeze Oct 14, 2024

This week Kyle Hedges and Matt Dye bring you a discussion regarding the importance, preparation, execution, and benefits of creating soft edges throughout your property. For years the understanding of creating or softening the edge between two very distinct habitat types such as trees to a food plot edge is necessary and valuable. This would be an example of a hard edge that gets softened. However, in today's podcast, we talk about creating soft edges and corridors through herbaceous cover, where previously there weren't existing edges!

Kyle has been using specific herbicide applications around food plot edges and through dense rank native warm season grass stands to promote a heavier presence of annual broadleaf weeds, opposed to rank grasses. This is a prime example of soft edge feathering. This practice produces more forage than before while still promoting vertical structure, yet it is not nearly as dense to traverse for many different game species.

This practice is very simple to replicate, affordable, and impactful in how deer will navigate your farm if done properly. Take a listen and share this with someone who needs to hear about this practice of soft edge development.

How to Manage Whitetails and Game Birds in Bitter Cold Winters Oct 10, 2024

This week, Kyle and Frank discuss a consulting trip that they took during 2024 to North Dakota. These two consultants were assisting a landowner improve his property for whitetail deer, mule deer and numerous game bird species in a mixed prairie/ag setting. Although this exact situation may not be how you are managing, you need to listen closely for some key takeaways about habitat management, mindset of managing within the Land & Legacy Principles, and how to manage weather extremes! Frank and Kyle knocked this farm consultation out of the park with great advice for the client to not up-end his farming operation, but allow wildlife improvements to work within a grazing system, crop field rotation, and native pasture system.

Is "If Its Brown its Down" All That Bad? Oct 01, 2024

Hold on to your seats... this podcast may make you reconsider a lot about your neighborhood when it comes to managing for older age class deer. The old phrase of "If its brown its down" was a forbidden foe of the hunters seeking to harvest more mature deer. In this podcast, we compare and contrast this method of harvesting to the neighborhood who is activiely trageting and harvesting the 3.5 to 4.5 year old age class aggressively. It may seem as if the older age class harvesting would be the best option for you, however we really dive into the facts of this harvest regime in a neighborhood like this. All of the potential is wiped out of a single age class (3.5) as opposed to more or less even distribution between multiple age structures in the if its brown its down neighborhood. These scenarios are all dependent upon the harvest total annually to be equal, but if the same number of bucks are taken in each neighborhood, we have found that it is easier for the landowner seeking to harvest mature deer to do so in a "if its brown its down" neighborhood. Call us crazy, but listen to the podcast, I bet you will change your mind!

S&F What Should I Feed My Deer? Sep 27, 2024

This week we are joined with Pierce Young. Pierce is the Assistant Coordinator of Private Lands, with Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks, and has years of experience dealing with over 500 private hunting properties across the south. Tune in and let's find out what we should be feeding our deer to maximize their potential.

A Complete Guide to Determining if a Location is HUNTABLE Sep 23, 2024

This is a detailed guide to answering the tough question everyone asks, Can I hunt here? We always give ourselves a pass or an excuse to be in an area that has a deer sign. However, many times those locations can do more harm than good. In this podcast, you will learn how to strategically and logically work through the mental process of vetting out a high quality huntable location. Take it to the bank, if each location you have checks all the boxes, sit back and let that area work for you!

If by the end of this podcast, you haven't taken down a least half of your treestands, you need to listen critically to it again! We discuss topics such as wind speed, wind direction, leaf coverage, shade, full sun, thermals, access, parking locations, etc... Do not miss this podcast. We encourage you to share it with your hunting buddies to make sure they too can share in the successes to come.

Non-Intrusive Farm Improvements Sep 17, 2024

On this week's podcast Kyle and Frank discuss ways to maximize your fall if you tag out early or just plain can't get enough farm improvements. These non-intrusive management strategies will get you ready for all the winter and spring projects ahead of you. Don't let the fall and hunting slow you down from what you need to be focused on with regard to making the farm better.

These tips and tricks for the fall will save you time, money, and headaches when it's time to get after it in the coming months!

White Oak vs. Red Oak Sep 09, 2024

Feed trees can play a major role in daylight activity on your property. Join us this week as Alan and Brady dive into the tactics to have success hunting over feed trees. In this episode we break down our favorite feed trees, and talk about where to find them, when to find them, and how to hunt them. We discuss the differences between red oak vs. white oak. The timing of when certain trees can be targeted, and what to look for on your property. Having knowledge of the property, and history with deer on the property can take the guesswork out of finding the right tree to hunt. Feed trees aren't just for early season hunting. This buck was killed using historical data, and feed tree tactics in November.

S&F Managing Existing Ponds Sep 06, 2024

Pond management for fish isn't that much different than managing upland habitat for wildlife. This week we are joined again by Fisheries Biologist Micah Tindall to discuss managing fish and the habitats they require.

LandBeat Breakdown: Ultimate Guide to Deer Bedding Thickets Sep 05, 2024

On this week's podcast we are trying out a new podcast style and need your feedback. We have been filming for years with the folks at Whitetail Properties and it's time we begin to break down in fine detail the nuance details of habitat management. So this week, let us know in the comments what you think about this podcast style!

Bedding thickets come in all shapes and sizes, but so do the implementation guidelines. This week we walk you through how we would cut a unit that is an average stocking rate with average ranges of timber size classes. We break it down 1/3, 1/3, and 1/3rd and apply a girdle/spray, fell, and hinge to each 1/3rd. This creates a great matrix of sunlight, structure, and new plant growth that will ultimately hold deer in these secure units during daylight hours. What more do you want?!?

Watch the LandBeat video here are this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq9TIMJRg4k. We hope you enjoy the behind the scenes look at creating a bedding thicket in the hot June sun!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq9TIMJRg4k&authuser=0

Velvet Bucks in Range and Reading the Script Aug 29, 2024

On this week's podcast, Alan and Reid Summerford take to the woods in search of a velvet whitetail. The prep work has been completed and in part 1 of this podcast you will hear all about the work they have completed to make this hunt a success before the season even opens. Oftentimes, the hard work ahead of the hunt will prove itself deadly. This pre-hunt interview calls the shots of what they suspect will happen. Let's see if their suspicions are correct in part 2! During part 2 of the podcast, we hear how the actual hunt unfolded and why it was a success. These unconventional techniques can be the make or break of success. In this episode, you will really see how habitat management and hunting strategy are essentially one in the same.

The Transformation of a Bowhunter to a Land Manager with Shawn Luchtel Aug 27, 2024

On this week’s podcast we sit down the Shawn from Heartland Bowhunter. Shawn is a devoted bowhunter but now is a land manager. Shawn is passionate about trying to promote a healthy native landscape that improves the habitat and overall hunting experience. This transformation is journey didn’t happen overnight and wasn’t his due to his own interests. Many people along the way influenced and guided him to dive deep in land management. We hope you enjoy this story and journey from Shawn. If you haven’t taken a deep dive into managing quality habitat, we hope Shawn will convince you to join us on the journey.

S&F New Pond and Lake Construction Aug 22, 2024

Several of us have ponds on the farms that we manage, and others may be thinking of building or stocking a new body of water. Just like your wildlife habitat, your fish need managed and so does the habitat they need to thrive. Today we are joined by Fisheries Biologist Micah Tindall with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to discuss the in's and out's of setting up a new fish pond.

A Buyers Top Considerations for Buying a Recreational Farm Aug 21, 2024

Today, we take a deep dive into several key considerations when buying recreational land. The biggest of all is to investigate the neighborhood with intensity. Know the good and the bad! Avoid the bad areas as your best habitat management efforts maybe futile. The best way to determine the neighbor impact is to not look for a single stud buck on camera, but a well developed age structure! This says way more about the neighborhood than an outlier buck from years ago. Age structure is often what people "mean" when they are incorrectly using the term "genetics".

We are stern and serious on the delivery with this podcast to make sure there isn't buyers remorse! This is a big decisions, hundreds and millions of dollars are being spent, make a good decision. Develop a great working relationship with your local Whitetail Properties Agent to be on the shortlist for quality land in the best neighborhoods.

All Things Food Plots Aug 15, 2024

In this episode we discuss what creates an awesome food plot, it's not just the seed that goes in the ground, but the location, soil type, and nature of the plot that can lead to more success. We discuss the key factors that are critical to maximizing the production of a food plot. -Prepping the soil to plant. -What to look for in a forecast to sow the seed. -Timing of planting. -Planting techniques. -Using cattle farming practices to create food plots. -Clover Plot Maintenance

S&F Just Burn It Aug 13, 2024

Prescribed fire is one of our favorite tools in our management tool box. In fact, there aren't many properties that wouldn't benefit from fire, but its not always the solution by itself, sometimes its not even the correct tool to use.

Habitat Planning And Recommendations Aug 02, 2024

We're using some photos from recent consults to guide you through the recommendations you hear weekly to help on your farm! Enjoy how we plan to guide these landowners to manipulating the natural resources to improve these farms for whitetail deer!

S&F Sharpening your axe Jul 30, 2024

No, it’s probably not what you think. We took a short break to catch up on life, or to “sharpen our axe” but we are back! Join Hunter and Thomas this week as they talk about the necessary break they took from the Sawdust & Fire Podcast as well as some of the things they have going on.

20/80 Rule - Work Smarter Not Harder Jul 23, 2024

Don't be lazy, get out there and do the work! But! if time is limited, start with these projects to ensure success this fall on your farm. What is the silver bullet to habitat management? We get asked this question a lot and the answer is never what the person wants to hear. Fotunately in this podcast we discuss what would be a silver bullet if we had one.

Kill or Cut? Jul 13, 2024

Stumps offer more than just a place to set mineral blocks - they are a rich source of nutrients that deer crave. In this episode, Alan and Frank highlight the importance of mineral stumps on the landscape. They provide insights on trees that are magnets when cut and those that should be treated when cut, making it easier for you to understand the significance of mineral stumps.

Do's and Dont's of a Timber Harvest Pt. 2 Jul 06, 2024

Trees have been cut, now what?? Now that the timber has been cut, it's crucial to develop a strategy to restore the area. In this week's episode, Alan and Brady explore the steps to train your forest to reach your goals and leave a lasting legacy on the property.

Do's and Dont's with a Timber Harvest Jun 29, 2024

Cutting timber? LIsten to these steps first! Brady Bradley and Alan Summerford talk about what to do before you bring a logger onto the property to have timber cut.

Fight the good fight. How to overcome invasives. Jun 21, 2024

The secret of getting ahead is getting started, the secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks, and starting on the first one. “Mark Twain”

Summer Management Strategies Jun 14, 2024

We dive deep into the weeds, as we discuss old field management and enhancement. Invasive species control was also a hot topic where we discussed in depth strategies and specific herbicide formulations to further improve your effectiveness and save you money with proper application methods.

This isn't a time to stay indoors, but modify your strategy with these suggestions and keep moving that habitat needle forward.

Less is More : Quality over Quantity Jun 04, 2024

We often see hunters "chasing the most recent activity". They follow what they saw as opposed to making deer produce certain patterns in huntable locations. Many hunters force themselves into unhuntable locations and botch a hunt or educate deer in the process. Oftentimes we find that the right approach is to learn the patterns, then place new features around the area to further enhance those natural patterns. This will increase the success of hunting. Stop chasing and guessing, know what deer are going to do before they do it.

How to Maximize Your Consultation Experience May 23, 2024

These answers help guide us to be able to deliver the best, most accurate, and strategic plan possible. Boiler plate habitat management plans are so common, but not ours. We ask distinct questions throughout the process that keys into whether or not the recommendations are even applicable or if we need to make audibles based on the answer to certain questions.

Be diligent in who you hire and how you attack your property!

Consultation Review and Truths of Summer Food Plots May 16, 2024

In addition, we cover the truths about summer food plots. We address their necessities, limitations, value, and alternatives to planting summer plots. Please give this podcast a listen with an open mind. Be critical and mindful of why you are doing what you are doing. You may need to re-evaluate your goals and intentions of habitat management. Be wise on how you spend your time and resources on your recreational property.

Crushing the Basics Leads to Compounding Results May 09, 2024

During this podcast, Alan and Matt go back to 3rd grade biology to lay the foundation of the needs of wildlife; food, cover, and water. These basics are compared to the needs of plants as an illustration to how each works off of one another to provide an entire offering that allows the plant to perform at its peak opportunity. Wildlife is no different, but there is no point to do so unless ALL the foundational aspects of wildlife management are being met. These are the building blocks of wildlife management

Hot Fires and Hot Gobblers May 01, 2024

Kyle Lybarger joins Alan Summerford to talk about turkey hunting strategies that were used on previous hunts. We also break down what we are seeing on different timings of fire, fire intervals, and how it relates to hunting, and nesting based on when the fire was applied.

Transforming Farms One Tier at a Time Apr 30, 2024

Brady shares his experiences working on two vastly different farms one in Kansas and one in Missouri that has seen 500 acres of TSI and multiple fires since he has overseen the property. The changes are vastly different. Matt discusses how one long time client who operates a high Tier 3 farm is now adding to his farm with new ground, but that farm would score a 0.... The journey of improving that property will be long, but rewarding.

Key takeaways are, to improve, you need to first identify where you are at and then determine where you are going, from there the plan will begin to reveal itself.

Habitat Management with Alan Summerford and Kyle Lybarger Apr 19, 2024

Big timber and rugged terrain. Kyle Lybarger joins Alan Summerford on a property that is in a conservation easement for old growth timber. As we breakdown the property, we discuss issues with allowing timber to mature without disturbance, and addressing the importance of a sound hunting strategy to grow, hold, and harvest mature bucks with consistency. Sometimes habitat whether good or bad isn't the most limiting factor.

Big Timber and Woodlands - Consult Breakdown Apr 09, 2024

This podcast is spitballing! We cover lots of things while coming back from a recent consult with Kyle and Adam. Buckle up!

S&F Who wants a brood habitat contest? Apr 04, 2024

Last year we had our Nationwide brood habitat contest and it was a success. A lot of great habitat was put on the ground and a lot of great prizes were donated. Should we have another contest this year? Let us know your thoughts!

The Turkey Comeback! Apr 03, 2024

We're joined by chainsaw Chad on this podcast to discuss recent work at the Whistling Woodlands. We're talking skid steers, quail, turkeys, and all things habitat management.

TSI vs. Shrub/Tree Planting Apr 02, 2024

Changing the growth structure from trees to shrubs by using a chainsaw by felling or girdling will create way more woody browse and structure on the ground than planting any trees! You need to consider the utilization of an existing root system vs a new one establishing itself. In addition, it is critical to understand the difficulty in maintaining quality habitat once trees have been planted.

Keep an open mind and really grasp the short- term gains vs. the long term play!

Which Skill to Master: TSI or Prescribed Fire Mar 20, 2024

Often times prescribed fire is the technique that gets hired out to contractors by landowners. They think fire is too dangerous, but they forget about the complications of hiring a burn crew to complete the burns. In comparison, most landowners want to tackle the TSI and run a chainsaw because they feel more confident doing so. At the end of the day, they forget that TSI is less commonly used than fire and TSI without follow-up fire is offering half of the value. Learning both TSI and fire is important as a landowner, but if you pick one, pick fire and hire out the TSI!

S&F Ducks with Luke Naylor Mar 08, 2024

Duck season has come to an end once again, and several are unhappy with the way their season went and are wondering what’s going on. Today we sit down with Luke Naylor from the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission to discuss Federal parameters, duck numbers, pressure and habitat. Join us as we take a look inside the complexity of how this all works.

Live Q&A Podcast - Quest Hunt Co Mar 07, 2024

Reporting LIVE from the Quest Hunt Co baquest in Springfield, Mo, we answer habitat questions from across the country! We welcome the audience to participate with their habitat related questions, we discuss topics from burning old fields, forbs relative to whitetails diets, sanctuaries, poor forest regeneration, addressing overpopulation of deer, and many more topics.

The answers to these questions may surprise you, so listen closely!

S&F Great Things for Landowners Burning in Arkansas Feb 29, 2024

It’s no secret that prescribed fire is a great thing for wildlife and that the majority of each state is mostly privately owned. So, the push for more landowners burning each year is vital. Recently there has been some great news for the landowners in Arkansas. Join us as we discuss some regulation changes and a new organization that we are happy to have been a part of. Who knows, maybe you can push to apply some of this in your state.

Habitat Management Throughout the Southeast Feb 28, 2024

We cover topics such as intense turkey management, small property management, thinning pines, dense-secure cover, large farm vs. small farm management and much more! If you want to learn more regarding our consultation services, please reach out to us at info@landandlegacy.tv

40,000 Acres in the Next 5 Years - The Horizon 2 Program Feb 20, 2024

This is ground-breaking, legacy-minded conservation efforts that will change the environment, water quality, wildlife populations and much more. The H2 program from Roeslein Alternative Energy is making waves to convert prairie and cover crop biomass into natural gas that can be used to fuel America. To discuss this we are joined by Steve Mowry a Land & Legacy client and the Director of this program to discuss the ins and outs of how the program works.

We hope that you all join us in the mission to bring 30 million acres back to grasslands in the next 30 years from a dream to a reality. Please share this podcast with landowners who can sign up or make the effort to learn more about this program. Do your part to participate!

Grade Cards are In! Turns Out, We've Got To Stay After Class.. Feb 19, 2024

Everyone is aware of grade cards, but have you ever applied it to your farm and more specifically to each feature of your farm?

S&F “Are they cutting timber again, they are going to ruin hunting!” Feb 16, 2024

I see this phrase every time I open social media. It seems that no matter where it happens, someone is complaining about the government “ruining their hunting” by logging or TSI work. Today we dive into why timber thinning is necessary, what happens when it isn’t cut and is someone really “lining their pockets” from a timber sale.

In the Heart of Consulting Season Feb 09, 2024

On this podcast we discuss a multitude of things we've ran into these last few weeks.

Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes? Feb 07, 2024

Alan and Brady discuss the steps they are taking with their children to ensure the legacy lives on. They share some great hunts and discuss the steps they took ahead of time to ensure their children were successful and hooked from the beginning.

The Stages of Landownership with Ben Harshyne Jan 30, 2024

Landownership can be a long journey for a hunter. You should be prepared for this and all the stages that follow. We discuss this 10 year journey for Ben as he acquires Blackjack, a 42 acre hunting parcel in South Central Iowa. There is also a corresponding successful hunt posted on the Whitetail Properties Youtube page that you will want to watch after hearing this story unfold!

S&F Managing a New Property Jan 25, 2024

Whether you’ve purchased a new property, or recently decided to start managing a property you’ve had for a while, there are always questions about what to do and where to start. Join us as we break down the steps we like to take when deciding how to get started managing a property for wildlife. And it doesn’t have to be work, we think it’s as fun as the hunt!

Diversity Got Hijacked Jan 22, 2024

On this week's podcast Matt and Brady discuss what the term Diversity actually means! This term has been hijacked over the last few years; the meaning and importance of diversity has been compromised and it's time to set the record straight. Diversity is not crop fields, timber, a creek bottom, and pasture all wrapped up in the boundary of any given property. We are attempting to steer the term "diversity" away from being the next "hinge-cut" buzzword by defining what it is specifically, and what it is not!

Diversity is like layers of an onion! It is deep and offers immense variety to vegetative species. forbs, grasses, sedges, shrubs, and trees all arranged in a naturally occurring order. Slope, elevation, canopy opening percentage, etc are all additional variables to how diversity is influenced. Your management plan should consider this greatly if you understand the true meaning of offering diverse habitat on your recreational property.

Salvaging Your Deer Season Jan 17, 2024

Options for those seasons when shooter bucks seem scarce or non-existent on your farm. Focusing on antlerless harvest, working on habitat, trying alternative activities to steer deer movements or retain young bucks on your farm. All these are options that can turn a poor season into a great use of your time.

Part 2: How to move up the Farm Tier Jan 09, 2024

Going from one Tier to another is critical. Most times we see folks applying the right techniques, but all at the wrong times. This leads to poor responses from those techniques. Remember, what you do should build upon what has already been created. Without a foundation of solid habitat, your efforts will be futile.

Therefore, be diligent and learn how to properly execute the right habitat management strategies at the proper time. This will graduate the property up the Farm Tier levels we've discussed in Part 1 of this podcast series.

How to Evaluate Your Recreational Farm: Farm Tiers with Land & Legacy Pt. 1 Jan 08, 2024

There has never been a way to truly evaluate a recreational farm, until now. We developed a Farm Tier system to evaluate where your property stands in the spectrum of management. You've probably wondered how much better can I make this or even what can I do to improve this place, or perhaps you're misguided and think you've done more than you have. This guide or roadmap will help you evaluate where you are at and most importantly, what's next!

Land management for whitetail deer is a journey, it's not a static place, but to advance you need to know where you stand and where you are headed. Please take time to evaluate your position on this spectrum. Be critical and honest with yourself. There is often a large percent of people willing to make changes, but focus on the wrong things to advance themselves, this podcast will help solve that!

Enjoy and share this podcast with your recreational landowning friends! #ForLoveoftheLand

Against All Odds: 40 Acre Dream Season Jan 03, 2024

10 years ago this 40 acre parcel was overgrazed pastures, now it is holding bucks and attracting them from miles away when the pressure of deer season gets going. No acreage is too small to manage. Secure areas are critical to offer on these smaller acreages and you will see why when a mature 10-pt is daylight all over this farm.

If you have small acreage, don't consider it a lost cause. This story of success in a tough neighborhood will be enough to fuel you to take the same steps and hopefully yield similar success.

The Difference Between State Biologist and Private Consultants Dec 29, 2023

A state wildlife biologist or local NRSC agent assists landowners daily. They work to improve habitat and dish out cost-share dollars that improved habitat, but they have boundaries and restrictions in how they can assist. In comparison, private consultants work directly for and on behalf of the landowners goals without restrictions based on specs that have been written within the EQIP program. Our consultants also work to address the entire farm and its operation and huntability. We intentionally address the habitat to directly improve the huntability of a farm, not max out habitat and hope it hunts well.

We hope this podcast is revealing and helpful to the landowners listening. There are two separate roles and ways to work. Make sure you understand where you are at and how you can maximize your time and future.

S&F In The Thicket Dec 22, 2023

Discussing shrub motts, food plots, rut timing and Merry Christmas

S&F GTR’s and Ground Gremlins Dec 14, 2023

Plus we discuss finding the buck at the end of the blood trail and it not being what we expected which seems to happen a lot. Have ground gremlins ever got a hold of your buck before you got to him?

Late Season Hunting - Don't Miss Out Dec 13, 2023

Want the most success on limited time? Don't sleep on late season.

Top 5 Limiting Factors for Recreational Landowners Dec 08, 2023

Changing perspectives, mindsets, attitudes, improving knowledge, and addressing fears is never easy. It's always difficult to do, so today we discuss these hot button issues. Oftentimes these issues keep people from experiencing the success that they think they could have or perhaps have earned. Looking at ourselves in the mirror is priority number one. Don't keep pointing the finger at every other issue. The habitat will change once we agree it needs to change, learn how to change it, and then motivate ourselves to put in the hardwork!

Please share this with someone who needs to hear this message! #ForLoveoftheLand

S&F Making Your Skinning Work Easier Dec 05, 2023

After the trigger pulled the work usually starts, but there are always ways to make the work easier. This week we discuss improvements to the skjinning shed and tools that can make a dreadful process enjoyable.

Welcome to the Neighborhood - Get Out Nov 30, 2023

There are things to look for when buying a property if you want old deer. Small tracts mean more neighbors which can mean more problems

Get Em While We Got EM! Habitat Calendars Nov 30, 2023

We're breaking down how this calendar will help you with your planning to make better habitat.

S&F Deer and Some of The Ideas Around Them Nov 25, 2023

With deer season in full swing across much of the country, and most sportsmen's minds focused on pursuing them, we commonly hear some of the same old stuff about their behavior. Things like "The rut is going to be early this year," or "according to the moon guide, tomorrow mornings not worth hunting."

Annual Calendar Launch with Ryan Kirby Nov 21, 2023

We've been working with our friend Ryan Kirby to make this happen and we couldn't be more proud of this piece. Be sure to pick yours up at shoplandandlegacy.com

S&F Expectations vs reality with our state DNR Nov 17, 2023

Often we are left frustrated when our DNR fails to meet our expectations. But are those expectations reasonable and properly assigned? What can a DNR actually do? We discuss our misplaced expectations, DNR ability, policing ourselves and taking action without dependence on the government agency.

Shooting Big Deer May Mean Delaying Your Success Nov 16, 2023

The number one goal that landowners come to us seeking assistance on is growing and harvesting mature deer CONSISTENTLY. However, many fail to realize off the bat the need to first allow more deer to reach the necessary age class of 5.5 or older. Rarely do we walk into a situation where someone has an adequate number of mature deer existing within the deer herd. So with this podcast, we break down the do's and dont's of producing more mature deer on your property.

A landowner must adopt and apply the following points in most landscapes. Tag soup is not a step backwards. Guests should be held to the same standard as the landowner. Adopt self-imposed regulations that are more restrictive than the state regulations. Get neighbors on board with passing younger deer. Increase overall deer herd numbers. And many more key steps, be sure to give this podcast a listen and a share with neighbors and friends.

The Rut - How to Hunt and Signs of Lockdown Nov 14, 2023

The rut can be frustrating if you don't have cover. It can be frustrating even if you do have cover but we're discussing ways to create success on your farm this rut!

Alan Summerford Takes Down a 6.5 Year Old Tennessee Buck Nov 08, 2023

There was no shortage of history with this 6.5 year old buck! The trail camera photos were numerous, but the location in which this buck was using was a hard to reach ridge top funnel! Yet, success was had due to understanding the land, clearcuts, thermals, and a disciplined hunting strategy!

After years of watching this buck in a tough to hunt area, Alan decided to make some changes to the property. Alan converted an existing food plot into a wildlife opening that improved access into this stand location. Even though is was improved, Alan still had to wait for the right time of the year and weather/wind to move in. He was given the right conditions and made the most out of it with a 6.5 year worked a scrape line to nearly the base of his tree.

Be sure to give this a listen as you hear some important details to follow on the recovery! We hope you enjoy this podcast and learn to improve the land first to improve your hunting! #ForLoveoftheLand

Client Success: Brad Pitt - North Missouri Harvest Nov 07, 2023

After obtaining a new parcel just over a year and a half ago, Brad got to work quickly. A timber harvest was conducted as well as the transformation of pasture ground to both agricultural land and old field management. The new crops included corn and alfalfa for 2023, but the layout of these is key to the huntability of the farm. After the logging was completed, bedding thickets were installed and the new structure was holding deer on this 95 acre parcel.

During a mid-October hunt, a hit list buck for Brad stepped out to the plot and worked a scrape! To hear in more detail about the habitat management practices that took place as well as the hunt strategy, take a listen to this podcast! #ForLoveoftheLand

S&F Still Hackin' Nov 02, 2023

Summer has ended, fall is in full swing. The deer are starting to chase and the ducks are on the move. We are working hard to finish up late season habitat projects so we can enjoy the fruits of our labor.

Balancing Treestand Access and Areas Void of Deer Oct 31, 2023

To be successful, you have to hunt undetected. Therefore, you need consider where you wind is blowing at all times. This means that there is a very distinct need to a manage for dormant season voids. These areas can be diverse pastures, frequently burned early successional areas, or areas that have had many of the mast producing trees cut. Deer relate there activity direct to topography and vegetation, it is up to the landowner to find the balance of habitat improvement and funneling deer in killable locations. This podcast takes you on a deep dive manage those down wind acres of the annual harvest locations on the farm.

We hope you enjoy and share this podcast! Tag a landowner you know who is looking for more land management information.

S&F Managing Pressure on Wildlife Oct 27, 2023

Rules are made for a reason, and it’s usually out of necessity. Unfortunately, these rules prohibit or limit activities, but often that isn’t a bad thing. Most successful hunting clubs have rules that have to be followed to maintain the quality of hunting that everyone expects, otherwise these private lands end up no better than public. Today we dove into several issues we constantly see on various areas and how to avoid them.

So Much to do in the Fall Oct 25, 2023

We discussed the competing interests in the fall and how social media can cause folks to spend time pursuing something to the point it isn’t even fun anymore just due to the pressure to make a post or tell their buddies at work. Whether it’s trying to kill 100 ducks in a season, or the need to kill your “buck”, or even disallowing some family time at a farm for fear of disturbing wildlife. Hunters need to ask themselves, if they couldn’t tell anyone about their hunt or harvest, then what hunts would they spend time on? Whatever the answer is should be what a person goes out to enjoy. It’s all about spending time outdoors in the wonderful season called fall. It shouldn’t be a grind, it should be rejuvenating.

6 Pre-Rut Hunting Strategy Considerations Oct 24, 2023

The deer hunting season is about to change, are you ready for these incoming strategy changes? Ditch the food plots you've been hunting all early season and start getting back to the cruising locations!

We break down 6 different key points to consider when it is time to hunt during the pre-rut. Some of these considerations include ways to blow your wind in favor of a buck and not directly the hunter. In addition, what scrapes specifically to hunt and what pinch points are truly important during this window. Entry and exit routes are always critical no matter the time of the year, but also consider the most recent pulse in deer activity based on your cellular trail cameras. These and several other key considerations are what we elaborate on during this week's podcast.

You need to be prepared for this window of time! Do not be reactive, anticipate the activity that will be happening. We hope this podcast gives you the edge you need to be successful during the pre-rut phase.

S&F Procedures Oct 19, 2023

These procedures might not be what you’re thinking. This week we stray from habitat work a little to take care of other things. But hey, sometimes you’ve just got to stop and take care of life so you can stay on track.

Why and How to Creating Dominant Scrapes Oct 11, 2023

This podcast will cover in depth the why and the how to in creating the dominant mock scrape in the area. We discuss the do's and dont's and top locations for these scrapes. If you want to learn how to gain valuable information and pattern mature bucks you need to listen to this podcast. Trail cameras are great tools if you know how to use them appropriately. Ask yourself if you are getting the most out of these tools?

There is not a fall that goes by that we don't have 90% of all trail cameras deployed over scrapes, they are that important! Learn how by downloading this podcast.

The Difference between Feeding, Baiting, and Food Plots Oct 10, 2023

This podcast has a purpose! Our goal is to clearly define the similarities and differences between supplemental feeding programs, baiting, and food plots for wildlife. This topic can be highly debated among hunters and is fueled by the various perspectives that everyone can have based on their personal experiences. Despite these challenges we wanted to address the hot and highly debated topic ourselves.

The terms are important to define and critical to establish that there are often mis-uses and abuses with these terms, so we are trying to set the record straight for people to use. It is important to remember that it is each hunters responsibility to follow ALL the local rules and regulations. Keep everyone accountable and on a level playing field.

Listen to this podcast carefully and completely. We’d love to hear your feedback on your perspectives.

Early Season Strategies - Alfalfa Oct 05, 2023

Chainsaw Chad strikes in southern Missouri with an aggressive strategy during the early season. We often say early season is a time to be patient but when a great pattern develops it can be time to strike! Matt and Chad discuss the strategy of his early season buck.

The Land & Legacy Team Oct 04, 2023

On this podcast we sit down all together! Adam and Matt are joined by fellow consultants, Kyle Hedges, Frank Loncarich, Alan Summerford, and Brady Bradley to discuss our strengths and how we can help landowners across the country. This isn't your everyday group of deer hunters. #Forloveoftheland

S&F Herd Management Sep 29, 2023

It’s that time of year when our focus shifts from habitat work to hunting. But can hunting have a bearing on your habitat? Join us as we discuss how and why we manage our deer herds on the properties we manage and what we hope to accomplish from that each year.

Habitat Management in September Sep 25, 2023

We've been rolling with timber stand improvement through late summer and today we're discussing how we did it!

S&F Technology Good & Bad Sep 23, 2023

Technology has allowed us to have a wealth of information at our fingertips as well as “better” equipment to make a lot of our tasks easier than it once was. However, it doesn’t come without a cost. The cost varies from conflicting information to equipment that not many can repair.

First Hunt, First Deer, 6.5 yr old Buck Down. Sep 20, 2023

Understanding bedding, historical movement, and individual personalities led to the game plan and execution.

S&F Thinking Outside the Box Sep 15, 2023

In today’s episode we tackle unconventional methods we use to plant fall food plots based on weather conditions as well as the topic of conformation bias. It seems pretty common practice these days for folks to discount information and cherry pick what they want to hear. We can all be guilty of it from time to time, but how much does it influence our daily practices in managing for wildlife.

Food Plot Problems - Weeds, Weather, and Failure. Sep 12, 2023

Why do I have all this equipment and my plots look worse today than they did five years ago when I was disking my plots? All these questions have answers and solutions! Tune in!

Consider Hunting only 5% of Your Farm Sep 11, 2023

This podcast is going to hit home and right in the feels for a lot of listeners. As the hunting season opens up around the country, consider taking this podcast to heart. Remember "it is more important to know when not to hunt then when to hunt". This is a phrase we commonly share, it is critical to take this to heart. Hunting discipline is often lacking among many hunting camps, this discernment can save you from educating deer and keeping the farm secure.

In addition to discussing hunting discipline, we also discuss in great detail the fact that many farms only need to have a small handful of treestands to hunt deer adequately. Each farm has a select few spots that create a weakness for deer, but a strength for a deer hunter. These are your prime hunting locations. These areas should have distinct habitat surrounding them to increase the frequency of their use. If hunted correctly, these areas usually only add up to about 5-10% of the farm. There is no need to hunt and pressure the whole farm, when the best spots provide all of the opportunity when you hunt with discipline!

Be sure to share this podcast with your too excited buddy!

S&F What’s happening in Arkansas - PBA’s, DMAP and the new Burn Bill Aug 31, 2023

It’s that time of year when our work starts shifting toward hunting preparations, but there is still a lot to do. Join us this week as we discuss things we have been involved with here in Arkansas and the great results we hope to see for the wildlife we love to pursue.

Dove Hunting 101 Aug 29, 2023

Land & Legacy consultants Allan Summerford and Brady Bradley discuss everything dove hunting. With season right around the corner they discuss management techniques they implement throughout the year that increase their odds of a successful dove hunt. Whether it be techniques strictly for dove or other management practices that inadvertently benefit the dove population, they cover it here. Dove season can be a great way to get the whole family involved so get out this season and enjoy!

Stacking Up "Buffer Bucks" Aug 28, 2023

During this podcast, we discuss the importance of the 3 year old age class for various goals in whitetail deer management. The focus of most deer hunters when pulling trail cameras is always on mature deer. They tend to take a quick glance at a decent 3-year old deer, but then keep on scrolling. This age class needs way more attention than that!

We discuss various case studies and scenarios within this podcast that will be applicable to most listeners! We hope you enjoy and learn! #ForLoveoftheLand

S&F Should I pay a consultant? Aug 24, 2023

With several free options available these days, a lot of folks wonder why they should have to pay a consultant to help them with a plan for their property. This week we tackle this question and discuss several instances we have encountered where hiring a consultant would have saved a lot of money, time and confusion; not only in the beginning but for years to come. It’s not a simple as you might think. Like a great employee, an awesome consultant doesn’t actually cost you in the long run, it saves you.

Achievable Goals that Compliment the Vision Aug 22, 2023

We encourage landowners to create a vision for their farm. With that being said, this long term goal is something to strive for, but many people get caught up in the long term vision and forget to set realistic and achievable goals along the way to reach the vision. If we are being honest, many fall short of the vision due to poor planning and setting unrealistic goals that guide them.

Big dreams are fun, we all love living in those day dream scenarios when it comes to land management. We all can paint the picture of what 10 years down the road should look like, but few can stay the course year in and year out. This week, we answer and address why that is and how to establish the goals or schedule along the way to allow you to create the vision!

Share this podcast if you find it hits home! #ForLoveoftheLand

Basal Treating, Hacking, And Girlding...What's the Difference?? Aug 17, 2023

During this podcast we share with you the pros and cons, use case scenarios, and the differences between Basal Treating, Hack-n-squirt technique, and the Girdle and spray technique. These three techniques all have their place, but knowing their differences will make you a more effective and efficient land and wildlife manager.

Today we walk you through the different options land managers have to use herbicide on woody vegetation to effectively terminate it. We cover the different herbicide cocktails, or solutions you should use to effectively terminate the intended vegetation. Time is of the essence, so be sure to use the right technique for your situation. We describe at great lengths when to use each one.

We hope you have learned useful information that you can easily apply to your farm to improve your hunting and habitat offering on your farm.

S&F Hit List Bucks Aug 17, 2023

Today we are joined with Land & Legacy’s Alan Summerford and neighboring property owner Lee Skinner to talk about which bucks make the hit list and improvements they have made to keep these bucks using the property.

S&F Made in America?? Aug 10, 2023

On this episode we discuss where some recently purchased ribeye steaks came from as well labor shortages driving prices for things and how this fits into our everyday lives as habitat and wildlife managers. And we finally get around to discussing some food plots.

August Work That Doesn't Mean Food Plots, Stands, and Trail Cameras Aug 08, 2023

There is plenty to do on your farm before season opens up that isn't about the traditional hunting strategy.

Getting More from OnX with Jared Larson Aug 07, 2023

The Onx app has more to offer than you already think, listen to all the new features to help make your life easier on the farm.

S&F Brood Contest Results Aug 03, 2023

We just wrapped up our first ever brood habitat contest and it turned out unbelievably well. A huge thanks to everyone that donated and all the awesome entries.

S&F Wildlife Management as a Career Jul 27, 2023

As with a lot of positions, it’s often who you know that gets you the position. But in managing habitat, it’s what you know that spells the difference in success. Today we discuss various positions available for someone starting out in this career path and steps you can take to learn your way to success. We even discuss a job opportunity in the private sector with Luke Terry, Custom Forestry Applications Robinson, KS.

Regen Food Plots vs Conventional Food Plots Research with MSU Jul 25, 2023

What does organic matter and deer forage have in common? What does the long term management of no herbicide and weed control look like? We're unpacking the newest research project with MSU Deer lab to see what this project will look like and what they're hoping to find out.

S&F Pond Management Isn’t a lot Different than Wildlife Management Jul 20, 2023

Today we discuss some recent pond management that we’ve done and how it relates to managing for wildlife. A lot of the principles are the same; spawning habitat, brood habitat, escape cover, food sources, managing against predation, providing food sources and setting yourself up for productive fishing are all things that we apply under water but it’s very similar to what we do for wildlife.

Pine Management for Whitetails PT 2 Jul 19, 2023

A few weeks ago we discussed the importance of understanding the future of pine management in regards to whitetail deer. The future is bleak for many people, but we didn’t want to leave you with no next steps or suggestions to help combat this issue.

In this episode we chat about not replanting with pines and the proper way to manage early successional stages for diversity. Pines can be utilized or managed for dead zones and visual screens to limit visibility on farms as well. All deer hunters need a place to blow their wind during the fall. Pine corridors will also be used when deer transition between the successional areas. We dive deep into the How-To of pine management for folks in the south east.

Keep an open mind when listening to this one!

Wild Turkey Science - Land & Legacy Jul 17, 2023

We sat down recently with the Dr. Will Gulsby and Dr. Marcus Lashley from the Wild Turkey Science podcast to discuss our finding across the country and things we can do to help the turkey.

S&F Mesophication - A Big Word with an Even Bigger Meaning Jul 13, 2023

On this episode we are joined with NWTF Biologist Will Rechkemmer from Missouri to discuss what happens when fire is removed from the landscape, how this impacts wildlife and measures that need to be taken to correct it. Here we are talking about the Ozark area of Arkansas and Missouri, but the same is happening across vast portions of the US and it’s having negative effects on the wildlife we love.

Summer Trail Camera Photos vs. Fall Patterns Jul 11, 2023

It's official, the deer season preparations are on! The anticipation is high as velvet photos are strolling in, but what does that actually mean for deer season? Most folks get too amped up to only realize that these patterns often end right about the time season opens up. So this week, we discuss the difference between what you see during the summer versus the fall and how you can still plan successfully for fall time patterns.

Testosterone in bucks ramps up during the later portion of August and increases throughout the rut, only then to decrease and signal to shed antlers during winter. This increase during August breaks up the bachelor groups therefore redistributing bucks across the landscape and not all huddled up around one single food source. This makes what you see during summer not translate well to bow season. So, we caution everyone to say, be careful what you see and how you prepare right now, because it is all subject to change!

Take a listen and enjoy the velvet photos rolling in!

S&F Implements and Equipment for the Habitat Manager Jul 06, 2023

Having the correct tool of the job saves time, money and headaches. This week we discuss implements and equipment that we commonly use, some we made, some we modified and some we bought but all have a specific purpose in our day to day jobs.

Soil Health Fads, and Improved Food Plots with Al Tomechko Jun 30, 2023

Al better known as Al James on the social media world has been passionate about finding solutions to food plots and soil health. He's devoted himself to trying to understand soil health, food plots, and all this crazy talk about no herbicide and how it can apply to his plots. It's an interesting chat with lots of great realist ideas for your farm.

S&F Tying Up Loose Ends Jun 29, 2023

This week Thomas and Hunter are discussing cheap & easy food plots, a big reason that clover plots fail, how to figure pure live seed, sprayers and the brood habitat contest coming to an end. And of course we are discussing this Arkansas heat and drought.

Pine Management is NOT Deer Management Jun 28, 2023

For 50 years pines have dominated the southeast region. We’ve been told that you can manage for whitetails and grow pines. But at the end of the day, pine management does not produce enough forage and cover for adequate whitetail management to offer year round resources. Thinning and burning sometimes isn’t even enough! There are many challenges that the pine market faces moving forward, so be wise!

Take a listen to this podcast with an open mind. Remember goals are important to consider when making long term and short term decisions. Be wise!

S&F Miracle Food Plots and Magic Soil Amendments Jun 22, 2023

Today we are joined with guests Chuck Mays, a law enforcement officer and phenomenal habitat manager from North Mississippi and Caleb Traugh with Traugh Ag Services in South Georgia to talk about lime, fertilizer and food plot seed as well as a lot of the marketing myths around them that folks commonly fall victim to.

You Can't Maximize The Farm Like You Thought Jun 21, 2023

This term is thrown out without realizing what is actually meant by it. Often times, people say they want to maximize a farm, but what they really mean is they want to sacrifice certain aspects of the property to balance their interests and goals.

If you don't have a single focus of interest for a farm, then you can't maximize anything. You can raise the bar greatly, but maximizing just isn't possible. For instance, most people want to manage for better wild turkeys and deer, yet they say they want to maximize each of them. Neither could be maximized, but both could be managed for and see some great increases in populations, usage of the farm, observations, and harvests.

The point of this podcast is to clearly understand the relationship between the land management you are doing and how wildlife use the landscape. Without having this knowledge then you are asking for increased nearly impossible results.

False Expectations - Regenerative Food Plotting Jun 19, 2023

On this weeks podcast's we're discussing the regenerative food plotting trend. We've covered it before but not like this! Fresh off of a recent consult, we're seeing more and more plots filled with weeds and limited success. Lets unpack it this week! #Forloveoftheland

Time to Officially Meet Frank and Kyle Jun 15, 2023

Combined they have over 45 years of experience managing public lands. This includes grasslands, woodlands, forests, glades, old fields and wetlands. They both manage their own farms as well. They discuss their interests in hunting and trapping and how that has also helped them when conducting consults.

S&F Do it For The Deer Jun 15, 2023

This week we are joined with Missouri Forester and Wildlife Manager Daric Denny to discuss what deer eat, how to create more of it and the nutritional value it can provide. Are you providing everything your deer need to thrive?

S&F Participation Helps Understanding Jun 09, 2023

In this episode we discuss getting involved in classes, PBA’s, cost share programs, and start the journey to a better understanding of managing habitat with a wholistic approach.

Advanced Tips for Bedding Thickets Jun 07, 2023

Bedding thickets and need for providing secure cover is the backbone of a solid hunting property. In the timber it takes a distinct strategy to create these dense thickets. However they can’t be too thick that only the edges are used. These units also have to have 80-100% sunlight allowed in. So this week we answer the question of how to manage the canopy while managing the debris load of each unit.

Advanced Lessons in Embracing Ecological Function for Improved Habitat Jun 05, 2023

Not every consultation is created equal. Recently we travel to North Mississippi to work a bottom land floodplain forest property. These sites always have their challenges but we were in for a exciting spin on managing Bottomland forest this week.

After spending several hours on the property, we were stumped the time being. Understanding the function of a property is critical to then making quality recommendations, but the function of this farm was way out of sorts. We break down how we approached this challenging farm and determined how to best strategize access and plan. We stuck to the Land andLegacy habitat management principles and these guiding principles revealed the next best steps.

Not every farm is going to be clear, cut, and dry. This farm requires extra attention to detail to realize its full potential. It also requires a landowner to be humble and work with Creation in their pursuit of reaching their goals.

S&F When The Shoe Doesn’t Fit Jun 02, 2023

In this episode we discuss what to do when the typical approach doesn’t work, when it doesn’t make sense to spend the money to fight what you have, working with your property instead of against it & managing your time and money for a higher return.

3 Biggest Factors to Grow and Harvest Mature Bucks May 30, 2023

We talk habitat management 365 days a year because it’s critical to optimizing a landowners success. However, so is a well developed and executed hunting strategy for that specific farm! We tour farms weekly and find most hunters are hunting a farm all wrong! This can easily derail even the highest quality habitat or decrease your success in a great neighborhood with ample mature deer to chase.

During this podcast, we urge you to balance your habitat management strategy with an equally solid hunting strategy. You have to be able to determine when not to hunt. The best days of the year are east to figure out with forecasts and increased deer behavior, but knowing when to stay out is critical!

Give the three pronged approach a try for 5 years, you will see a notable improvement in reaching your goals!

S&F Companions May 25, 2023

They are known as man’s best friend and quickly become a part of the family, they love us unconditionally and their only goal is to spend more time with us. Today we pay tribute to Piper as Hunter talks about his recent loss with her as well as many other four legged friends that have gone too soon.

5 Must Have Herbicides with Kyle and Frank May 24, 2023

Kyle and Frank discuss a few herbicides that should be kept on hand at all times for landowners. They also get into the specifics of various herbicides and different times and ways to utilize them. They examine the issues with not only invasive species, but also thick grass, stump treatment and more. Tune in for some tips that might help on your farm this summer.

New Ideas for Brood Rearing - Kyle Hedges May 23, 2023

Creating Brood Rearing habitat in ways other than dormant season fires and disking!

S&F Habitat Management in the Southeast with Alan Summerford. May 20, 2023

New team member Alan Summerford is doing a fantastic job of managing habitat near his home in Alabama. This cattle farmer has grasped the the concept of managing early successional habitat for wildlife and is literally “setting the woods on fire”.

Grassland Opportunities Abound May 17, 2023

How about the fact we’ve lost 3 out of every 4 meadowlarks since 1970? This is not just a problem for songbirds. Bobwhite quail, prairie chickens, even deer and turkeys are hurt by the decline of grasslands. All is not lost, however, as native grassland habitat can be easily restored across the Midwest and South and now is the time to act. In this episode, Kyle and Frank discuss grassland conservation opportunities and the unprecedented amount of money that is available to private landowners to convert agricultural fields and exotic grass pastures to native grasslands. They discuss the wildlife benefits of native grasses, of course, but also the important function native grasses and forbs can serve as a source of high quality forage in the summer months and as a way of “drought-proofing” a forage base. Kyle and Frank also discuss how most of the once-perceived roadblocks to establishing native grasses have been overcome and that it is easier than ever to get an established stand in just one year. They also take you through the process of finding local resources to help in designing and implementing a native grass program on your farm. Cost-share dollars for native grassland conversion is at an all-time high across the country and if you’ve ever thought of converting a portion of your property to natives, now is the time and this is your podcast!

Using the ONX Hunt App to Improve Your Farm May 16, 2023

Using onX features to improve your farm lay out and hunting success!

S&F Hunting Management or Habitat Management May 11, 2023

Sometimes there is a fine line between things we do to take more wildlife and things we do to make more wildlife. Today we are joined with our friend Greg Berndtson take a look at how some of these practices vary from the Southeast to the Northeast.

Our Springtime Supplemental Food Plot Plans May 10, 2023

That means groceries should be abundant across the landscape. Fawns and getting ready to drop and antlers are well on their way to developing. Hunter's minds are shifting towards food plots to determine the need to plant, just go fallow, or return during the fall to plant.

During this podcast, we go through the different scenarios that way we face on our food plot acres. The approach is different for us both, but we have distinct goals and objectives that plan directly into the approach. We are planting heavier grain plots that most years for several reasons, but the main reasons are for weed control and for the purpose of heavier winter foods. In years past, we have increased the number of acres in perennial crops, which freezes up more ground to do in corn or soybeans with the intention of leaving grain.

Be sure to follow along and get your plans in stone! Use the code "LL10" at gostrattonseed.com to receive 10% off your food plot seed order.

Timing Isn't Everything! May 09, 2023

We're discussing the importance of not always following the guidelines!

S&F This is for the Birds May 04, 2023

From the birds we love to hunt, to deer, cattle and even criminals fleeing from the law, they all depend on habitat and we are covering it all today.

HuntWorx - Plan, Prep, Pursue with Greg Glesinger May 03, 2023

What is HuntWorx? Tune in to find out! Many of you will remember out podcast from August 2022 when we discussed what was in store for the future of Land & Legacy hunts and hunting content in collaboration with Greg Glesinger and Kasey Morgan. #ForLoveoftheLand

S&F “The disconnect” Apr 27, 2023

Our perspectives cause us to view things differently and that’s a wonderful thing that helps us be unique and diverse. But in specialized subject matter ignoring training, education, research, science, and historical evidence and information is frustrating for each individual’s viewpoint. Let’s get connected as we discuss bridging the gap to help hunters see things from a habitat managers perspective.

S&F Fescue Pastures and Politics Apr 20, 2023

A discussion about the millions of acres of sod forming grasses across the southern US and Thomas tries his hand at politics on the new burn bill to make sure it remains friendly to individual landowners that need to create habitat.

The Fruits - What Are the Fruits of Your Management? Apr 19, 2023

In the Bible, Jesus uses the parable of fruit production in regards to healthy trees and diseased trees. Buckle up! We're applying it to land management!

S&F Contest Announcement Apr 13, 2023

Brood habitat has been determined to be one of the number one limiting factors across the landscape. Let’s work on fixing it together and have some fun in the process.

Turkey Management Equals Fried Turkey Apr 12, 2023

Turkeys aren't doing well in the south east but not according to Alan Summerford

S&F Arkansas Turkeys with Jeremy Wood Apr 07, 2023

Today we are joined with Jeff Craig and Arkansas Game & Fish Commissions Turkey Program Coordinator Jeremy Wood to talk about the status of turkeys in Arkansas. We took a bunch of commonly asked questions and and discussed them to try and address your concerns.

If you care about having more birds in Arkansas, or most any state in the Eastern’s range, you should tune in!

Property Access: Targeting Mature Bucks Apr 07, 2023

We've all heard the importance of how access is regarding recreational property and a solid hunting strategy, however, despite the importance we often meet with folks who are hesitant to change or alter what they have been doing for years. "Old habits are hard to break", couldn't be more true when it comes to access for hunting purposes.

During this episode, we discuss the value of a clean slate or fresh eyes. If you've owned a farm for a while it may be time to shoot holes in your plan if you want to succeed further. With a few recent consulting visits, we provide clear examples of how a fresh start and new roads can be a game changer for success. Quality habitat is critical, but it must be properly placed on a property to see its true value.

Tune into this week's podcast to hear the tough conversations about planning and execution of sound habitat and hunting strategies.

In-the-Field Prescribed Fire Review Apr 05, 2023

We are reviewing a prescribed fire from three weeks ago. We walk through 3 different sites within the prescribed fire units and discuss exactly what we see. We address if we reach our stated goals or not.

As you listen along go checkout the photos posted on our social media channels on April 5th, 2023. These photos will guide you through our conversations and the details in which we see them. We discuss the management of fuel loads, the resetting of vegetation, consumption of tree tops from previous logging operations and more. We discuss burning in the timber and glade units.

We hope you enjoy this collaborative learning effort regarding the prescribed fires completed this year!

Turkey 365 - Landscape Turkey Usage and Management Mar 29, 2023

Is it the scale in which they live or perhaps the fact that they don't sport unique antler characteristics? Today's podcast is centered around a 365 day approach to turkey management and what a landowner should do to encourage a turkey factor.

We break down the four seasons of a year and specifically the foraging habitat and vegetative communities that support that system. Forage is crucial to consider when managing wild turkeys, but also is how to produce more turkeys. So, we spend a healthy amount of time talking about turkey production and the emphasis it should have when trying to make a turkey centric habitat plan.

If you want more turkeys to frequent your farm, then give this podcast a thorough listen.

Regional Influences that Alter Management Strategies Mar 28, 2023

This week we take a deep dive into the details of each farm, each region, and the current status of each vegetation type to devise a plan to maximize that land's value for wildlife. There is literally nothing cookie cutter from these visits. Each parcel has its own limiting factors, and limitations, and layout specifics. These variables are the largest considerations when making a well throughout habitat management plan.

We hope you learn and enjoy from others during this week's podcast.

Who's the Father? A Dive into How Successful Bucks are at Breeding Mar 23, 2023

There are many myths, misinformation, and hunting stories that lead the whitetail hunter astray from what is truth. The truth of this matter is more important than what you may think.

During the podcast we learn just how effective bucks and does are at producing offspring that make it to the fall and are recruited into the herd. You may be shocked to learn that 60% of bucks only replace themselves during their entire lifetime. Sure a lot of fawns are conceived, but not as many as you think make it to a reproductive age, so really, is that big buck truly passing on his "genes"? 15-15% of each recruited fawn is also produced by a 1.5-2.5 year old buck, so "inferior" or younger bucks also contribute to the breeding.

We need to learn that this complex exchange, survival relationship for whitetail deer is anything we can strongly influence or control. Stay the course, let deer reach maturity and increase the nutrition available on the landscape, this will have the largest impact on antler expression. Period.

S&F Turkey Talk with Jeff Craig Mar 23, 2023

Jeff knows turkey research as well as most anyone we’ve met and is dead set on spreading the truth. Why? The answer is simple, he wants more turkeys on the landscape!

We dove in to see what drives his passion for turkeys and the habitat they depend.

Managing without Prescribed Fire Mar 20, 2023

This podcast is for you guys who wonder what to do if you can't burn but still want to create disturbance.

S&F Just do it! Mar 16, 2023

Brood habitat has been identified as the most limiting factor across the landscape for turkeys. We are learning how to create it, but sometimes limiting factors prevent us from doing it exactly by “the book”. With a working knowledge of how things work, often times we are forced to throw the book away and try things outside the box in an attempt to achieve our goals. Sometimes it doesn’t work at all, and sometimes things turn out great, but regardless we gain valuable knowledge. So, sometimes it’s best to weigh out all your options and just do it!

Predators and Turkeys with Dr Marcus Lashley and Dr Will Gulsby Mar 14, 2023

Dr Marcus Lashley and Dr Will Gulsby have been driving home the point of habitat management for turkeys since rhe launch of their Wild Turkey Science podcast but in this week's episode we're talking predators! We're not talking about what predators do to nests nearly as much as the debate on what trapping and social media may do to hunters in general. Please listen in to hear our perspective on trapping and social media. #Forloveoftheland

How To Create Brood Rearing Cover for Wild Turkeys Mar 13, 2023

On this episode we discuss the management strategies to create the most limited resource available for wild turkeys in 2023. This critical collection of herbaceous plants and bare ground, are in limited supply and must be created intentionally if you want wild turkeys in the future.

Kyle and Matt discuss the different ways you can create this cover from transforming fields or timber. If you’re actively trying to promote turkeys, this is a must listen. Brood rearing cover will the impact that improves turkey reproduction. We see it time and time again, the farms that have good Turkey populations, have adequate brood rearing cover available. Time to transition old fields, food plot edges, crop fields, and thinned timber into brooding cover by offering herbaceous broadleaf plants and bare ground.

If you learned more about turkeys from listening, please share!

S&F What's good for the bird is good for the herd Mar 09, 2023

This week we discuss management practices that benefit ground nesting birds and deer. Deer are able to thrive in a variety of habitat but turkey and quail rely on specific habitat types to exist. In this roundtable discussion with returning guest Chuck Mays & Daric Denney we talk about practices that are helpful to both animals and can possibly save you time and money while giving you a bigger return on the landscape.

Wild Turkey Science and Baiting with Dr. Lashley and Dr. Gulsby Mar 09, 2023

Put your listening ears on for this one! We have a heavy hitter coming at you as we interview Dr. Marcus Lashley and Dr. Will Gulsby from Wild Turkey Science Podcast. We review in great detail the recent podcasts revolving around the essential habitat needed for reproduction of the wild turkey.

To no surprise the conversation quickly gets to the importance of early successional vegetation on the landscape for nesting and brood rearing cover. It was found in a recent research project that 45% of the hens selected only 7% of the landscape consisting of the early successional cover and shrubland. Not surprisingly, there was a 38% success rate in these areas for nests, which is pretty exceptional for maintaining and growing turkey populations!

After covering these staggering numbers, we then shift the conversation towards baiting and the implications it has on the landscape and how it largely impacts predators in a very positive way. Baiting is not a practice that we would support or suggest if you are interested in producing more turkeys on the landscape.

We hope you share this podcast with everyone who cares about the wild turkey.

Content Paralysis - Over Loading the Farm Plan Mar 07, 2023

It's 2023 and there is an overwhelming amount of content to consume, only one problem, it all contradicts the other. So how do you know which viewpoint to follow? SHould you listen to this person opinion of this other persons? Our advice, do what's right for you farm's ecosystem and use research backed advice to get the maximum results!

S&F Are You Really Doing Habitat Work? Mar 04, 2023

As more landowners shift to thinking about habitat work, more questions pop up; Do I need a consultant? Do I need a contractor? How do I choose someone? What work needs to be done? How do I determine what’s the most important? Which practice is best?
The best answer is, it depends! Lol This week we dive into some of this and discuss the in’s and out’s of several practices and how to make some of these decisions.

New Farm - Fresh Breakdown - Woodlands Mar 01, 2023

We added to the Woodlands this year, and it's something we're very excited about!

How to Implement Old Field Management Feb 28, 2023

Simple yet effective is the name of the game. From a business perspective it’s, a supply vs demand scenario. Have species demand early successional vegetation, yet the supply is very limited on most landscapes.

In this podcast, we walk you through step by step of how to implement the technique of old field management. The most important aspect is effective termination of cool season grasses. From there, you burn the thatch, spray invasive species, and let the sun and seed bank do the rest.

Don’t overlook this dynamic, yet effective tool land management tool. If you want to reproduce turkeys on your farm, you need to consider promoting early successional plant communities.

S&F Cut the Tree and Burn Where it Used to Be Feb 23, 2023

With the ongoing turkey decline and quail numbers completely nonexistent in several areas these days, it’s so encouraging to see more landowners doing habitat management practices to help restore numbers. This week we discuss what we are seeing and some of the reasons more landowners are jumping on board.

The Difference Between A Forestry Plan and A Habitat Plan Feb 22, 2023

We're discussing the recent Forestry Management Plan we put together for our home farm the Woodlands and how we're managing for wildlife even though it's timber. This podcast will make you see the forest in a different light and how you can manage for long term results. #Forloveoftheland

Managing the Landscape and Landowner Mindset Feb 21, 2023

After a long day in the field Matt and Frank review a land and wildlife habitat consultation from central Kansas. This farm ground in the Great Plains region can be good, but it has its limitations.

Adequate cover for whitetails is limited. So it’s time to break the mold and start with a new mindset to really up the value of cover for whitetail deer. But deer isn’t the only objective, we’ve got bobwhite quail, pheasants, and waterfowl to consider on this farm as well.

We stretch the limits and push hard for creative habitat plans. This consultation was no different. To get different results, you just manage differently!

S&F Managing Moist Soil for Ducks Feb 16, 2023

This week we are joined by Matt Farmer, Public Land Manager with Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks to discuss managing moist soil for waterfowl. In this episode we discuss the benefits of managing food sources as well as pressure these birds face and ways to help combat it.

How Many Mature Bucks Should Be On My Property? Feb 15, 2023

This is a loaded question that we often get while working with hunters and landowners. It can be difficult to answer as herd density, hunting pressure, and the habitat will strongly influence these sightings. So what we did was go to the numbers that research has provided and determine with several likely scenarios that most landowners can find themselves in.

You may be surprised by the numbers or lack there of mature deer, 4.5+ in two common herd scenarios on a per square mile basis. 640 acres represents a square mile, so within that acreage of varying herd density, we tell you what can be expected. The number of mature bucks on the landscape should only encourage you to increase the quality of habitat that your acreage offers. Deer select quality habitat on a daily basis, so having stronger influence over the individuals within a herd should drive you to work hard.

Share this podcast with someone who needs to learn more about deer population dynamics and specifically revolving around the odds of encountering mature bucks each fall.

High-Graded Timber Harvest vs. Select Cutting Feb 13, 2023

Nothing will get landowners more fired up than a timber harvest gone wrong. The aftermath often last for years and the next harvest may not come during their lifetime. Foresters and loggers often get put into the same category as a used car salesman, but it's time to break this down. We are going to dive deep into the phrase and science behind the dreaded high-graded timber.

First we discuss the expectations that landowners who are conducting a timber harvest must have, do you really expect the logger to come and not harvest larger, more marketable timber? Aggressive timber harvests may be necessarily dependent upon the condition of the timber or the past management. A less aggressive approach such as select harvesting isn't always the best option as it limits the production of quality wildlife habitat and also decreases oak production over time. Here are the facts, sometimes, you need to address the issue and stop putting bandaids on the problem.

Timber management and harvesting is very situationally based, so keep this mind when listening to this podcast. But remember not every harvest of an oak is a high-grade, there is likely more to the story, but most importantly there is more work that needs to be done, like future TSI, prescribed fire, and patience.

S&F Green Timber Reservoir's and Todays Ducks Feb 09, 2023

Arkansas has long been known as the Duck capital of the world, but changes need to be made if we are going to keep that title. Join us this week as we discuss ducks past and present as well as managing your property to attract and hold more of these birds we love.

Conservation Work Isn’t Going To Get Easier Feb 07, 2023

The time was yesterday to start working on improving your property. The changes didn’t occur overnight, we’ve allowed decades of zero management, prior management, or lack of management create or shape the landscape we now know.

Improving our land, soil, air, and water need to take priority. The work load is increasing by the day, so take the steps you need to address the issues at hand. We are not only hunters, landowners, but we are called to be land stewards.

Some of us inherit problems when we purchase land, but once the deed is signed, it’s time to get to work. Join us in then fight to improve our landscape and restore ecosystems.

Do's and Dont's of Timber Stand Improvement Feb 06, 2023

It's time to grind, February is movement month for the health, diversity potential, and overall improvement of your property. You should be improving your timber for wildlife by thinning the canopy or by executing TSI (timber stand improvement). There are however so many different opinions regarding TSI if you ask anyone. Do be sure to listen to this podcast thoroughly.

Like always, you need to start with your goals and objectives for that stand of timber. Once you have clear objectives the proper techniques of doing TSI will become more clear. There is no one size fits all approach to TSI. We breakdown in detail what to and and what not to do when completing TSI of all shapes and sizes for whitetail deer and wild turkeys.

If you want to take your farm to the next level, learn how to complete TSI and then EXECUTE!

Western Hunting Upland Birds! Feb 03, 2023

Join Kyle and Frank as they chase birds in the west!

Planning a Western Bird Hunt With Kyle and Frank Jan 30, 2023

Kyle and Frank are returning from an exciting hunt out west chasing various bird species in some of the prettiest country you can find! Tune in to hear how they plan so you to can have success in the field.

Landowner Spotlight - John Hauk Jan 26, 2023

Join us this week as we discuss how John Hauk has transformed his Illinois property into a wildlife paradise.

Success in the South! Managing Deer and Turkeys in Alabama Jan 24, 2023

Alan Sommerford has been a run of success in the great state of Alabama but don't picture a land of milk and honey for wildlife. Alan is a cattle farmer with the idea of using the land to support his family all while also providing benefit for the wildlife. Tune in to hear how Alan is using hay production to benefit wildlife and make money.

Improving A Texas Ranch in the Cross Timbers Region Jan 23, 2023

After a recent consultation trip to North Texas, Kyle and Matt design a killer habitat management plan for this property. During the podcast we break down the recommendations from top to bottom and how the eco-region plays a huge role in natural resource management. The goal of this farm was to better manage the natural vegetation to create predictable movement and develop a hunting strategy around this.

The Cross-Timbers Region is full of post oaks, blackjack oaks, and greenbrier, take a listen as we break down how we turn this into a whitetail deer haven. We talk about techniques such as travel corridor management, the installation of native food plots or wildlife openings, 2 -types of bedding thickets, and the usage and placement of corn feeders.

If you want to learn how habitat managers think through the process of managing a large ranch for whitetail deer in Texas, then give this podcast a listen!

S&F Arkansas Deer Status Update Jan 19, 2023

This week we are joined by Cory Gray and Ralph Meeker from the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission to discuss what’s going on with our deer herd. Several issues from CWD to Gnats have plagued the deer herd across the state, but where are we now? Join us as we discuss what’s happening and what to expect.

Questions for a Habitat Manager with Dexter Keuss Jan 17, 2023

We're covering all kinds of topics this week on the podcast, from favorite doe hunt, to biggest flops in habitat management. This podcast is different than every other podcast we've ever done so you don't want to miss it!

Consistent Kansas Giant on the Hedges Farm Jan 16, 2023

The Hedges Farm in SE Kansas has been on a roll during the last few years. Kyle Hedges, a Land & Legacy consultant has been managing this family farm with clear intentions the last 5 years and the results speak for themselves. Although this farm has been in the family for more than 20 years, time is now on Kyle's side to manage the property for harvesting mature whitetails with a bow.

In the past few years, invasive species control, pollinator planting, TSI, bedding thickets, and burning have been on the top of the priority list. Between Kyle and his hunting buddy Byron who is another wildlife professional, they have been very intentional to move the needle on consistently harvesting top quality whitetails. In the past 3 seasons, they have tagged 4 mature bucks on this 160 acres with one 180-inch whitetail during the 2022 season.

If you want more from your farm, be intentional with your management like Kyle and Byron. To hear how they have increased their success, be sure to give this podcast a download!

S&F Wild Turkey Science Jan 12, 2023

Mention turkeys on any social media page and the conversation quickly turns to the population decline and the opinions on why the decline is happening. Today we are joined with Dr Marcus Lashley from the University of Florida and Dr Will Gulsby from Auburn University for a big announcement. These two turkey research specialists have teamed up with Turkeys For Tomorrow (TFT) and are starting their own unbiased podcast to address the facts and debunk the myths surrounding the wild turkey and their environment. We look forward to tuning into their show and hope you do as well, the future of our turkey population depends on us all joining together to create a better environment for these birds we love.

TSI, Hinge Cutting, Woodlands and Savannas Jan 11, 2023

Is a TSI timber block great bedding or is a hinge cut thicket better? Can you create different levels of cover without creating cover too thick it is bad for turkeys? What is the solution?! It's a shame it's taken 30 years of information in the outdoor industry to reach a point of understanding! Tune in this week to hear how to manage for your turkeys and deer with your timber management. #ForLoveoftheLand

Client Success: 20 Acres, a Dream, and Hardwork! Jan 10, 2023

Here is the story of how an eager and goal oriented 20-year old purchased his first property, executed a habitat management plan, hunted smart, and tagged a great buck on 20 acres during the first hunting season. It doesn't take owning the whole county to get it done. Remember quality habitat is intentional, not accidental. This was not an accident, he will be success here next year and the years to follow.

On this podcast we have Tucker Dedmon of southern Missouri joining us. Tucker is an avid outdoorsman with a passion for private land. He set a goal of buying his first recreational property in 2022 and he was able to purchase 20 acres of hunting land at just 20 years old. But the persistence doesn't stop there. After an afternoon of touring the property and laying out a plan, we knew Tucker was going to get right to work. Within a few weeks the bedding thickets were cut and stands were being hung. All he was waiting for was for deer season to open for the bucks to get on their feet. And they did.

This story is a great example of how disciplined hunting and an executed habitat management plan will yield results. What is your excuse?

S&F That Doesn't Work Here Like it Does There Jan 05, 2023

That doesn’t work here! We constantly hear it on social media. Today we are joined with Wildlife Professionals and Consulting Foresters from the North to the South to discuss various topics that we constantly hear, “How do I choose a land consultant”, “Should I hinge cut”, and “How do I increase my turkey population”; among several other topics. This week, Thomas and Hunter are Joined by Kyle Lybarger (Alabama), Daric Denny (Missouri) and Greg Berndtson (Pennsylvania). Each of these guys are at the top of their game and spend every day in the woods. Y’all grab your steel toe boots and maybe we won’t hurt your toes too bad as we dive into various topics in the wildlife habitat world to find out it that works here or not.

Advanced Lessons on Timber Stand Improvement (TSI) Jan 04, 2023

The acronym TSI or Timber Stand Improvement is very commonly used, but the practice is often misunderstood. There is a wide realm of understandings, beliefs, and practices from people who believe they are completing TSI. However, we set the record straight this week and discussed the three main levels of TSI that we most commonly prescribe, Light, Medium, and Heavy TSI.

For each degree of TSI we discuss the canopy reduction, standard methods used to achieve those canopy openings, and what the general purpose or usage is from wildlife like whitetail deer and wild turkey within each degree of thinning. You get a free in-depth understanding of how TSI should be implemented and utilized on recreational farms.

Remember education is only as valuable if it is applied. So get out there and implement some of the sound TSI practices that we discussed this week on the podcast.

Valuable Junk - Trees, and Habitat Jan 03, 2023

In today's podcast you are going to learn how to turn "junk timber" into whitetail woods.

The term junk timber is over-used, misused, and used incorrectly. Today, we set the record straight on recreational properties where the goal is to improve the property for whitetail deer.

Not all value for deer is found within oak species. Although they provide a lot of potential from the mast they produce, other tree varieties can provide an immense amount of woody browse and cover. These trees don't come in the form of towering oaks, but are often mid-story or smaller DBH trees. When cut and not treated with an herbicide they offer incredible amounts of forage when they resprout for deer. Learn how to capitalize on your junk timber!

S&F End of the Year Thoughts & Rants Dec 29, 2022

Join us this week as we discuss some of our past projects as well as plans we have for next year, some of our upcoming guests and even a couple of rants. With hunting season going on we have been preoccupied, but looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and making major habitats improvements starting over the next few weeks.

How to Create A Bedding Thicket: Step-by-Step Dec 28, 2022

This is your how to instructional podcast to create one of the most important foundational aspects to a managed hunting property for whitetail deer. You have to have cover and cover in the appropriate places. This podcast explains in a step-by-step process of how to identify the proper locations, how to size the opening, and how to cut it to maximizes it’s security and forage resources.

You should be able to listen to this podcast and then go pickup a chainsaw and implement what we’ve shared. Don’t complicate things! These bedding thickets will be the magnets of your farm. These areas hold does and bucks, create edges in timber blocks, increase consistency of deer movement, feed deer year round, and more. As we roll right into January, this activity should be on your brain. Don’t miss out, your neighbors might not just be cutting firewood these days!!

S&F Habitat Planning from a Deer Stand Dec 22, 2022

We’ve all been there. We climb up in the stand for a relaxing hunt and our thoughts quickly turn to what you wish you had gotten done. If I would have only cut in that bedding thicket, or feathered that edge; would this hunt have been more successful? Would I at least be more confident? Why didn’t I get it done last year? Should I climb down and do it now?
I guess every habitat manager has these thoughts, but how do we get it all done? Join us as we discuss our thoughts and plans on how to tackle these projects so we can enjoy the fruits of our labor.

Late Season Iowa Mature Buck Hits the Ground Dec 21, 2022

Late season is the time to harvest mature bucks. The exhaustion of the rut and settling in of cold temperatures drives bucks to feed and feed routinely. With proper planning though, the advantage can easily be placed in the hunters corner. Last year to this year, we’ve learned a few things on this western Iowa farm. During this podcast, we break them down one by one.

Wind protection is a huge when it comes to feeding locations. Out of the wind areas will be highly selected when standing grain is left. These areas are magnets for daylight activity. If you have topography features with grassy and shrubby south facing slopes in close proximity to these units, there will be heavy feeding in the standing grain. Access is also super key. When you find the location, you have to hunt it! Time in the tree is key, so you need to be able to access cleanly, both entry and exit!

This 137 acre farm has produced 4 mature bucks in two seasons during the late season over the last two years. This success isn’t accidental! It takes proper planning and execution to see these types of results!

Utilizing Winter Burns to Promote Forbs Dec 20, 2022

Burn in the spring to promote grasses and burn in the summer to promote forbs, but what about winter burns? For many of us burning during the late summer isn't something we get excited about because we want to avoid a large area of black, no food no cover during the fall with hunting season. In comes Winter burns and their ability to set back warm season grasses and allow forbs to flourish.

S&F Landowner Spotlight - Chuck Mays Dec 16, 2022

Chuck Mays is no stranger to intense situations. As Chief Inspector of the Shelby Co Tennessee Sheriff’s Department and a long career with the SWAT team in the Memphis TN area, Chuck has developed tactics to deal with criminals and uses a lot of the same mentality when managing his family farm for wildlife. He calls it “unwinding therapy”, but I’d hate to be the invasive vegetation that he’s unwinding on.

Join us as we find out how he’s maintained a phenomenal turkey population, continued to have quail and is growing nice deer on his farm.

What Do Deer Eat in the Winter Dec 13, 2022

Ready or not, the cold is coming. There is the treaty of serious cold temps hitting the whitetails range in the next few weeks. Does your land have the late season food sources to support them? Do you even know what to look for regarding late season food resources? Download this podcast to find out!

Woody browse, grains, greens, and red oak acorns are the staples for late season forage. These are the main food groups for deer during winter. Woody browse is the most important in timber country and easiest to create. Grains such as soybeans, corn, or milo require ag land and or serious food plot acreage and equipment.

Three Year Landownership Journey: Big Ohio Whitetails Dec 12, 2022

On this week’s episode, we are joined by Brian Modrzynski, a Land & Legacy client from southern Ohio. This story will take you on a journey of landownership and the evolution of goals and mindsets.

Every once in a while you come across people who can see the vision and execute. They are the people who set goals and reach them with a tenacity. In the last three years this 600 acre farm has changed and not so slightly either. We are talking big changes and real success from every angle imaginable.

Old field management, TSI, invasive species management, prescribed fire, adding dense cover, new access roads, improved drainage, timber harvest, reduction of antlerless deer, you name it rest assured it’s been completed.

Do not miss this episode! There are great hunting stories but also insight on how to set goals and achieve them while embracing change!

S&F Know when to hold ‘em and know when to fold ‘em Dec 08, 2022

We often hear landowners say “I don’t want to cut my woods”, but timber needs to be thinned occasionally so it will remain healthy and regeneration can occur. There are way too many timber tracts that could benefit from being thinned and you just might put some money in your pocket doing it. Join us this week as we discuss When to hold ‘em and when to fold em with Forester Wade Hargrave.

Leasing Land or Buying Land Pros/Cons Dec 06, 2022

Every hunting season brings new perspectives to discuss and learn from. During this episode we discuss how a 36-acre managed property out performed a 160-acre lease.

The difference in a lease and owning land is stark. Coming from two habitat nerds it’s hard to hunt a property without envisioning all the changes that would solve all the problems. In addition, quality habitat doesn’t just mean great hunts. It has to be laid out in a way that allows for access and facilitates deer movement to the areas of the farm that can be hunted. If it doesn’t, then you are left to be frustrated with your hands tied.

It’s better to own a quarter of the land you can lease. Hunting should be enjoyable and predictable, not frustrating and random.

Are You Hesitant to Change Your Way of Thinking? Dec 05, 2022

Old habits die hard. This saying is so fitting for many landowners. We've all heard the lines that most hunters murmur when they just simply accept poor quality hunting. Most excuses revolve around poor genetics, bad soils, and the region of the country. These factors are not limitations, just guidelines for the ways you should manage your farm. Stop using excuses, embrace change, and implement sound techniques.

As we approach the beginning of habitat management season, it is time to start getting ready to embrace change. You have to prepare for things to look different if you want a property to hunt differently. However, you cannot do that until you have first allowed your mindset to be influenced and ultimately changed. Education and knowledge is the catalyst of change, not the excuses we've all heard before, such as, well he's just a mountain buck, or they don't get much bigger around here, or we don't grow big deer cause we have bad soil, or even we don't grow big deer cause we don't have crops in our area.

Start the habitat management season with one for forward, embrace the change and prepare for it!

S&F Learning More About Big Buck Habitat by Following a Tracking Dog Dec 01, 2022

Throughout this deer season Hunter Johnson has had the privilege of visiting over 40 top notch deer clubs while following his tracking dog Lanky. Tune in as he and Thomas Baldridge discuss what these properties all have in common and how these clubs are able to produce and hold big mature bucks every year.

The Value of LANDownership with Neil Hauger Nov 30, 2022

Are you a private landowner or do you aspire to become one? The value of owning land is difficult to comprehend and write about, so this week we dive deep into the raw meaning, emotions, value, and feelings regarding recreational land ownership.

Neil Hauger is a Whitetail Properties Agent, he has seen it all when it comes to land ownership. He’s assisted hundreds of new and veteran landowners. As a landowner himself, he shares great insight and perspective on all things land.

If you want to nerd out on LAND the give this podcast a listen and a share. When you’re done, go checkout all the listings on the Whitetail Properties website!

Don't Miss Out: Post-Rut and Late Season Nov 28, 2022

Do you have a deer tag still? If you do, listen up! There is still a lot of great hunting season left. After the peak of the rut, it seems hunters' interests just die off. However, we are discussing why some of the best of the hunting season is still in front of us with the post-rut and late-season food hunts.

The back half of the rut is often missed out on, wether hunters are tired from grinding it out through early-mid November or the buck they were pursuing was already harvested or gone MIA. The last remaining does to breed get bucks back on their feet cruising and working scrapes, so get back out there and don't miss this movement. In addition, as soon the post-rut winds down, you still have the transition to food sources to hunt over. As the temperatures drop, the feeding activity increases. So be watching weather fronts and have your trail cameras over scrapes on the edges of the desired late-season food sources. Bucks need the calories during this time of the year, therefore it provides some incredible hunting opportunities.

Thanks for listening to this week's podcast! We hope you stick it out and get within range of a mature buck in the weeks to come. #ForLoveoftheLand

It won’t work? Native Grazing with Ryan Parker Nov 28, 2022

“It won’t work!” We constantly hear this from cattle farmers across the country. Tune in with us as we join Ryan Parker Quail Forever, Grasslands Coordinating Wildlife Biologist.
We discuss grazing natives and the benefits to cattle and wildlife. Folks don’t know why it won’t work but they know they’ve never seen it done. Did the Buffalo graze fescue to be healthy? What did cattle farmers do before fescue and Bermuda grass got here?

Scratching the Surface - Missouri Giant Goes Down! Nov 22, 2022

We're back at the woodlands this week discussing the recent success that was had on a 5.5 year old buck we called the Big Ten. We watched this buck grow up! He's gone from a triple beamed 3.5 buck to a giant 10 point buck. This is just another great buck that is a product of habitat ad trigger management,

Booner Down in Missouri: 10-Year Land Management Journey Nov 21, 2022

This week we have a remarkable story for you and a returning guest to the Land & Legacy podcast. Mike Hinkle is a client and great friend. He is also a dedicated land manager, hunter, and conservationist.

Mike recently harvested a new record deer for his property in North Missouri and is here to share the story of the hunt, but more importantly, the journey to get here. A popular podcast Mike joined us on was Cut, Burn, Repeat. After the success this year we can confirm again that this recipe of simple land management practices is the recipe for success. There is nothing flashing here beyond the message of consistency in implementing sound natural resource management techniques. This will yield results that elevate you beyond the neighborhood's average.

We have said it for years, there is no silver bullet here. If you want success, you have to be diligent and intentional with your land management. Stick to the plan, and the results will follow.

It won’t work? Native Grazing with Ryan Parker Nov 17, 2022

“It won’t work!” We constantly hear this from cattle farmers across the country. Tune in with us as we join Ryan Parker Quail Forever, Grasslands Coordinating Wildlife Biologist.
We discuss grazing natives and the benefits to cattle and wildlife. Folks don’t know why it won’t work but they know they’ve never seen it done. Did the Buffalo graze fescue to be healthy? What did cattle farmers do before fescue and Bermuda grass got here?

Are You Hunting for Validation Nov 16, 2022

This podcast may hit home for you or encourage you, but you will for sure feel something. It’s the middle of deer season and the results of other success is all around you. Big buck after big buck as your scroll through social media, but the question is are changing your standards at this point or looking for validation?

“The mentality that something far less desirable is better than the possibility of nothing is a direct reflection of the need for validation” We are here to remind people that stick to your standards. There is no reason to settle or feel shame for not filling a tag. A season without a harvest should be reflected on, not justified by settling or minimizing a buck less than your intended goal.

A tag filled or not does not qualify you as a hunter. No ones life will change if you don’t harvest a deer this year. Keep things in perspective, keep the home life healthy and go have fun, learn, and listen while outdoors this season.

Absentee Landowner Success - Success on Limited Time Nov 14, 2022

Finding time to improve your farm while having kids and living nearly four hours away can be very difficult, and Jay Dirks won't try to tell you any different, but there is a way!

Jay is a Land & Legacy client from way back and he's seen his property change completely! From timber thinning, burning, and more timber cutting the place has come alive!

S&F Gas on It! Nov 11, 2022

This week we visit with Matt Martin and get a unique perspective from a guy that has been on all sides of land management. Matt worked for the NRCS, has been a landowner with a NRCS EQIP contract, and now owns a land management business where as a contractor he works for others trying to develop their land

A Rut Within the Rut - Same Word - Two Meanings Nov 08, 2022

Hunting the Rut can be tough but it can all change in a instance.

Forest Management for Wildlife and Ecosystem Function Nov 07, 2022

In this podcast we sit down with Ryan DeSantis of Oklahoma State University to discuss forest health. This episode is all about the importance of active forest management. We discuss this from three major angles!

First we discuss why forests need to be managed for their overall health. Single aged forests are one step away from being devastated, but diverse aged stands can withstand disease or wind damage. Wildlife habitat creation is another main influencer of forest management. Food and cover is created through diverse forests. Lastly, a proper forest functions like an independent ecosystem and stores carbon. This is an important message to share as you learn about how actively growing forests are carbon storing machines!

Please take this podcast to heart and manage your forests. Every angle suggests it’s importance.

S&F Taking the Plan Into Action - Adam Keith Nov 03, 2022

Time and time again we get asked after we write a management plan what are the next steps. It's a loaded question but the general theme is the same. Start working! Do we do the work ourselves, do we hire contractors? Should we sign up for government cost share? All these questions and more right here on Saw Dust & Fire

Client Success - Kansas Giant Falls Nov 02, 2022

Land & Legacy client Aaron Jordan has had a season to remember! Laying down a 181" Kansas giant is not simple task. This didn't come from accident though, this comes from years of work, planning and habitat restoration. Land & Legacy consultant Kyle Hedges worked with Mr Jordan back in the winter and put together a game plan to start the complete restoration of habitat to not only grow more deer but to harvest more deer, needless to say it's working!

Studying the Impact of Hunting Pressure on Mature Bucks with Andy Little Nov 01, 2022

We've all asked that question when running into a buck we didn't want to leave our farm. Does he stay and just go nocturnal or does he leave the area completely? That's where today's research and podcast topic are crucial in understanding the needs of whitetail deer and how we can lay out our farm to benefit ourselves in high pressure neighborhoods.

You make think you have thick cover but listen in on this podcast to hear Andy discuss what they found when trying to stalk these deer for the sake of research. Was it a simple patch of grass or tall mature timber? Listen in to hear!

S&F Landowner Spotlight- Cole Shealy Oct 27, 2022

We recently asked landowners to reach out to us and tell us about your habitat work. Today we are joined with Cole Shealy from South Carolina to discuss his property, the habitat work he’s done and the results he is seeing as well as the benefits of a prescribed burn association that he’s recently helped start.

Missouri Mature Buck Harvest in a Bedding Thicket Oct 25, 2022

You've heard the talk, scout before season, scout during season, scout while hunting! Blah, Blah, Blah! Most of us don't have the time to scout and play defense with the deer. Good land managers lay out a plan, implement, and reap the rewards.

Zack and Issac Coy have been working to improve their property for years so we discuss the natural transition from food plots to burning. This is a great podcast to encourage you to start planning your scouting with habitat work!

A Solution for Your Permanent Hunting Locations Oct 24, 2022

There are two things that always coincide with treestands, that is safety and comfort. We can all agree on that at least. Every farm has several locations that are always dependable, each and every season. These are perennial stand locations that may require long sits in the tree safely and comfortably.

Vertical Treestands is a newly launched and emerging treestand company that is offering new technology to the treestand game. In addition, they are offering a discount code to listeners, use the code LandLegacy20 to get 20% off the new offerings. We sit down and chat with Austin and Frank of Vertical treestands as they discuss the in's-and-outs of the new equipment. You can tell from our conversation that they know treestands and are building a company based around quality products made in America!

Be sure to check out www.VerticalTreestands.com!

S&F - After the Shot Oct 20, 2022

This week we are joined with Mr Donnie Deaton from the pine thickets of south Arkansas to talk about how to recover from a bad hit on that deer we’ve been targeting. We discuss shot placement, wait times before searching and yep, you guessed it….blood trailing dogs. We even talk about ole Lanky, the dog that chose his human.

Private Land Hunting Setups and Gear Oct 18, 2022

This weeks podcast we review the three main ways we hunt and setup farms to be hunted. There are a lot of die hard hunters who cling to stereotypes such as, saddle hunter or rifle hunter. But let’s be real, we do it all, we are hunters!

Specifically on managed private lands, there are three main scenarios you can find yourself in. The first is mobile, that requires a tree saddle. Not every location has a tree that can be hunted from a stand. Secondly, the permanent setup. These are perennial locations that the wind behaves and are always good, likely due to distinct habitat or topography features. Lastly, elevated blinds, these are for the areas that are sketchy to hunt and you need that extra advantage or big views where you can hunt with a firearm.

Give this podcast a listen to learn more about the ways we setup a highly managed and well strategized farm!

Rut Predictions for 2022 Oct 17, 2022

Rut Predictions are lame. We are basing this on the science, the cold hard facts! The rut happens the same EVERY SINGLE YEAR AT THE SAME TIME! Sorry to burst the bubble, but it's reality.

This week we break down our rut predictions from the pre-rut phase, lock-down, and the post-rut. We discuss how weather also impacts deer behavior during these time frames and how the moon phase really means nothing. For our region, the pre-rut falls between Oct. 26-Nov. 10, peak-rut falls Nov.11-16, then post-rut is Nov. 17- Nov. 25. This is all based on the average conception date for your region, but peaking breeding occurs during the 11-14th right here at home.

Get out and hunt! Be safe, diligent, and disciplined!

Prescribed Burn Associations and Learning to Burn Oct 13, 2022

Today we are joined with Private Lands Supervisor Ted Zawislak from Arkansas Game & Fish Commission to talk about putting more prescribed fire on the landscape.

Prescribed fire is is one of the number one tools in the habitat management tool Box and is essential for creating and maintaining turkey and quail habitat. In this weeks episode we discuss learning to burn and forming PBA’s to help us safely and effectively meet our objectives of prescribed fire.

Booner Buck Down in Iowa - Greg Glesinger & Kasey Morgan Oct 11, 2022

Remember that phrase, "You can't kill them from the couch?" That was probably spoken by guys who hunt every waking moment they can and likely put way too much pressure on their farm early in the season. On this podcast we discuss the technique of knowing when to pick the days to hunt and the success that follows.

Also, what should you do to clear the field at the end of a hunt in the evening? Tune in to hear how Kasey and Greg hunt their plots and ensure future daylight use on their farms. Most importantly this podcast is about the hunt leading up to the harvest of a 177" buck that's lived in Iowa for at least 7.5 years until Greg and Kasey caught up with him in early October. Don't miss it! #Forloveoftheland

The October Lull is Fake News Oct 10, 2022

Every year, the term “October Lull” is thrown around as a time frame during a portion of October that some believe mature bucks don’t move within this timeframe and especially not during daylight. This is however false! Mature bucks do move daily throughout October, but we breakdown during this podcast, where, why, and how they move throughout your property.

Pressure, heat, food source changes, scrapes, and more are huge influences for getting mature bucks in their feet. Another thing to consider with this change in movement is your position in relation to this movement. Where are your trail cameras, are you hunting where mature bucks are frequenting? If not, this will certainly impact your observations and beliefs in the myth of the October Lull.

Remember go checkout the social media post to pull your own observations from this movement pattern.

S&F Common Pesticides for the Land Manager Oct 06, 2022

None of us like spraying herbicides and we really dislike having to purchase it these days. In this weeks episode, we dove into some of the herbicides we commonly use on our farms and discuss the in’s and out’s that help us save a little money, mix properly and get this not so glamorous job done efficiently and effectively.

Elk Hunting with Rolling Bones Outfitters! Oct 04, 2022

We're very excited to share the recent western trip to the mountains and future plans with Rolling Bones Outfitters. For more info on this hunt and application process check out https://landandlegacyhunts.rollingbonesoutfitters.com/.

Chainsaw Chad is still batting .1000 in the mountains going 3/3 on bulls. Stay tuned for his story and what happened with Adam in Utah. This is a first for Land & Legacy but buckle up, we're going west more!

How To Develop a Hunting Strategy Years in Advance Oct 03, 2022

Yes, you read the title correctly. It is possible and during this week's podcast, we discuss how the proper trail camera placement will reveal consistent patterns from your target bucks, year after year. This is what we refer to ask "historical information".

This past week we've seen our trail cameras light up in certain areas of our farms that don't normally have routine photos of target bucks. The fall shift in scraping behavior has started hot and heavy. The trail cameras will reveal certain patterns over the next couple of weeks of what your future target deer will be doing during the rut. Monitor scrapes heavily with cameras each year during this time frame. When you watch them closely, these younger bucks will develop very similar patterns year after year. This is a huge advantage for the wise hunter.

It's very possible to develop a game plan on how to kill a buck when they are mature, based on what they do in the years previously during the rut! Be prepared!

S&F - The Not So Fun Work Sep 29, 2022

Join us as we cover a topic a lot of habitat managers seem to struggle with. We cover easy sprayer calibration, sprayer setups and mixing herbicide for the habitat guy. It’s all way easier than you think!

Early Season Archery Harvest: 7.5-Year-Old Buck Sep 27, 2022

This podcast covers the full story of a 7.5-year-old buck named Dove Creek 10. Seth Harker has been after this buck for several years and finally, as the 2022 season rolled around, this buck was a regular during daylight.

The key takeaways from this hunt were entry and exit, ridge top with consistent winds, annuals/perennial food sources, beating the acorn drop, and shade lines. We will break down for you the four sits we had for this buck and why it all came together as it did. This buck was a warrior, he had been shot years ago and overcame a wound from a neighbor. Although this could have been his smallest rack to date since he was mature, he made up for it in his body weight!

There are always lessons from success, we hope you tune in to sharpen your skills as a bowhunter.

How to Hunt Acorns and Consultation Follow-up Sep 26, 2022

Are bumper crops acorns a good thing or a bad thing for bow hunting? That is part of the conversation during this week's podcast. We give you tips on how to hunt and if you should be aggressive during this time of the year or not.

When dealing with an excellent mast crop, you must set trail cameras over your top producing white oak trees. In addition, you need to focus effort on the cover. This food source is everywhere, so stay to what is consistent and that is cover, specifically east and north facing slopes during this time of the year. When hunting during this time, just remember that you must hunt with favorable winds. You need to put the time in the tree to be successful under these conditions, so make sure you are hunting undetected.

Don't be afraid to put time in, but be expected to hunt extensively during this time frame. Deer patterns are tough, but any time in the field is still a time to learn and observe!

Raising the Bar on Herd Management with Bubba Groves. Sep 22, 2022

This week we are joined with Arkansas DMAP Coordinator Bubba Groves as he goes over deer nutrition from both natural habitat as well as reducing mouths to increase antler size, fawn recruitment and overall herd health on your property and the importance of record keeping and what we can learn from it.

Summer to Fall - Project Recaps Sep 20, 2022

This week we're going over some of our past projects we did on our farms this summer. One of those is the use of planting annuals into perennial plots and the benefit to each. We also discuss using a disc to help with planting plots! Shocked right?1

What States Have the Best Whitetail Hunting? Sep 19, 2022

We have a highly debated topic for this week's podcast! This topic is incredibly important to consider when you are buying recreational land. Every state has factors that influence the hunting opportunity for whitetails, this week we will discuss the best states and the ones with the most potential.

Factors to consider when discussing the best whitetail states include season dates, antlerless tag availability, land uses, climate, habitat, hunting culture, number of buck tags annually, over the counter or draw system? These factors all play a large role in what we see and experience while we are hunting. We break down these factors and discuss for you how influential these all are.

We hope you enjoy the podcast and it gets your wheels turning regarding where you should be purchasing your next recreational parcel.

A Missouri Consultation Review Sep 16, 2022

This week we cover a property consultation in a two part podcast. The first segment is discussing our expectations of the property located in Central Missouri. We discuss the property goals for the client and what we anticipate we will encounter.

During the second half of the episode, we record after the visit was conducted and provide you with our recommendations for the property. This farm has a bright future and a huge transformation coming it's way. We are going to promote cattle grazing on 45 acres and implement a large timber harvest on the remaining 100 acres of timber to support whitetail deer and turkey on the property. The harvest will include, clear cuts and aggressive thinning! of course prescribed fire will be utilized to maintain this quality habitat.

Don't miss this almost live consultation review during this podcast! Enjoy

S&F Rabbits Trails Sep 15, 2022

This week, Hunter and Thomas talk about what’s happening on the farms they manage as well some great podcasts they have heard recently. Join us as we run down various rabbit trails from native grazing, to food plot planting, spraying, army worms, prescribed fire and a great discussion on a couple of awesome recent podcasts.

Anticipating a Whitetail's September Transition Sep 14, 2022

Are you ready for the month of transition for whitetails? Ready or not it is here! This month is full of change and variables. The factors are numerous and most hunters find themselves in one of two categories.

1. You don't hold bachelor groups all summer and are anticipating them showing up.

2. You fear the bachelor group they have watched all summer breaking up and leaving.

September is a unique month in the world of whitetails. Bachelor groups are breaking up and what has fuzzy antlers are now shed into hardened antlers for the fall. Not only are physiological things change, but also are food sources. The once green soybean fields of summer are turning yellow and cornfields are actively being harvested all the while whiteoak acorns are dropping. These changes in the landscape coupled by the changes in the whitetail's body really make for some big pattern shifts in the field. Most hunters are reactionary to these changes and stress out during this month. However, during this podcast, we educate you on how to embrace these variables and prepare for these changes. Ultimately you will become a better woodsman!

These Ain't Your Grandpa's Woods Anymore! Sep 08, 2022

In todays episode we dive in with Forester and Wildlife Manager Daric Denny to discuss how your timber stand has changed over the years. Many beneficial plant communities that have been lost and we're discussing what we can do to fix it. Who knows, we may even create a turkey factory in the process.

Hunting Season is Here! Elk Camp Sep 07, 2022

We're headed west! It's a busy time of the year but some times it's important to slow down and go hunting! This week we're discussing our upcoming trip to Utah to chase elk! This trip brings up past hunts and the good times of sharing camp with buddies! #forloveoftheland

Changing Your Habitat Perspective with Sean Far Sep 05, 2022

This week we're joined by Whitetail Properties Producer Sean Fahrendorf to discuss his feet to flame introduction to habitat management. Unlike many of us we built our knowledge over years of learning from others and our own personal failures, but for Sean once he got introduced to habitat management it was drinking from a fire hose.

S&F - So Simple a Man Could Do It with Maia Larson and Ciera Rhodes Sep 01, 2022

Quail forever and Pheasants Forever have accomplished many things for private land across the nation, but they aren’t just improving the quail habitat; they're making great habitat for turkey, grouse and deer too! Today we are joined with two ladies that explain not only how to create great habitat for all wildlife, but ways to get the work paid for as well.

Cash Rent or Custom Farm Your Farm Land with Stephen Stockman Aug 30, 2022

Not everyone has open or agricultural acres on their recreational farms, however, this conversation can still be beneficial for everyone to listen to. You may ask why, but the reason is, often times the status quo is not always the best fit or decision. Cash renting is very common for landowners, but in this podcast, you may learn more that there are better options out there. We bring on Whitetail Properties Agent Stephen Stockman who works across Northern Missouri selling farms!

Cash renting of farm acres are very clean exchange. Cash money for the control of agricultural acres. This is a very hands-off approach and has low responsibility on the landowner. But with lack of responsibility comes little power in crop rotations, fertilizing, and harvesting. On the flip side, custom farming is on the complete other side of the spectrum. All of the control is in the hands of the landowner. From, what to plant, how to plant, when to plant, etc... In addition, all of the risk regardless of the outcome falls on the landowner.

To learn which option is best for you, please tune in and share this podcast with each landowner you know!

10X TV - New Whitetail Adventures with Greg Glesinger Aug 29, 2022

Greg Glesinger has a history of tagging giant whitetails, and when we say giant whitetails we aren't saying booners, we're talking 200" and bigger. In fact, Kasey Morgan and Greg are doing things in the whitetail space few people get to experience. This isn't happening by chance either, this is planned out through extreme habitat makeovers, planned out hunting strategy, and execution.

This new project will unfold on Sportsman's Channel next summer as well as new social media content. This will be Land & Legacy's way of jumping into whitetail content completely. We'll be packing cameras, podcasting, and doing all kinds of additional content focused on whitetail deer. From growing them, to building a farm for them, to hunting them., you'll find it all right here.

Forloveoftheland

S&F Is it Deer Genetics or our Own Limitations with Dr Marcus Lashley Aug 25, 2022

We often hear people say “we just don’t have the genetics to grow big deer around here”. On today's podcast we dive into this topic with Dr. Lashley as a follow up to a podcast he had done on Fire University titled “ Fire as a Tool to Increase Nutrient Availability in Lactating Does”. In a lot of cases it’s the deer adapting to what you have provided them and has nothing at all to do with genetics. Join us as we dive into this hot topic and explore what might be going on.

Should You Plant Natives or Let the Seed Bank Respond? Aug 23, 2022

On this week's podcast we discuss whether it is necessary to plant natives or simply allow the seed bank to respond. We have a special guest and post-graduate student from the University of TN Bonner Powell. He completed some interesting research while a student that helps to break down the best ways to maximize the native response that could save you some money and time.

Most people tend to think that the more money you spend, the better quality you will get. In some cases this could be true, but it's not always the case when working the land. During the podcast you will hear just how valuable the seed bank is compared to planting natives. The results are pretty overwhelming and speak for themselves.

We also include some great tips on the future management of the site and how to best keep the area in good condition.

Sawdust and Fire! Aug 22, 2022

As we grow, you get more content coming your way. Sawdust and Fire is a new podcast coming to the Land & Legacy feed. This podcast will be for the landowner. It is hosted by two passionate land managers, Thomas Baldridge and Hunter Johnson. Both residing from Arkansas, they put their personal training, passion, and knowledge into each podcast. They are not professionally trained, but that does not disqualify them from providing you with quality information in a digestible manner.

The main goal with Sawdust and Fire is to be as relatable as possible and unpack the heavy research into a landowner's perspective. These guys are excited to bring you new content with a personalized twist. The land management principles will be the same, but a new voice to enjoy! We hope you give Sawdust and Fire a listen each week.

For Love of the Land

Habitat is the Main Focus with Casey Bergthold Aug 16, 2022

The group at Quail Forever is a lean mean habitat focused machine. They are keenly aware that the persistence of bobwhite quail and pheasants are dependent upon the habitat on the ground. So they cast a wide net to grab the attention of all land lovers.

We sit down with Casey Bergthold of Quail Forever to learn more about the organization and opportunities to put more habitat on the ground. A huge tool for this group is prescribed fire. So if you are apprehensive about using the tool, you need to contact your local Quail Forever agent to see if they can assist. It's important to remember if you want assistance, it is out there for you, you just need to reach out.

How to Maintain Your Clover Plots: Mow, Spray, or Both? Aug 15, 2022

There is a heated debate over the topic of, whether should you mow your clover. There have been many schools of thought, but now a long-term research project has provided us, land managers, with the best option for perennial plot maintenance. Recreational mowing is often overused and done to the detriment of wildlife and perennial food plots.

The research conducted by the University of TN and graduate student Mark Turner showed that routine mowing reduced the amount of clover produced, reduced deer activity in the plot, and did not decrease the persistence of broadleaf weeds. Mowing was, however, recommended once during late summer to clip weeds prior them producing seed heads, but following up with an herbicide solution can provide a longer-term maintenance solution.

Don't mow just because you enjoy it. Research is only good and useful if it is applied. Remember a food plot's goal is to produce the most and highest quality forage per acre possible, so don't mow it off just to have something to do.

The Relationship of Culture and Game Species with Dr. James Martin Aug 09, 2022

Please take note during this podcast of the importance of hunting culture. This culture is essential to the resource. As hunter numbers shift and change over time, we will see a change in the influence we have on wildlife. The story over the last 40 years of the bobwhite quail is of the upmost importance to study and learn from. A once highly sought-after game animal is now in many regions unhuntable due to low and declining populations. Don't think for a minute that other game species such as the wild turkey are not capable of doing the same thing.

This podcast is not here to paint a picture of doom and gloom but to share a story that we HAVE to learn from. If we keep promoting the culture of hunting, we will preserve the opportunities to chase wild animals. Culture impacts our daily lives and the decisions we make. If you care about bobwhite quail and the wild turkey, let your actions show how important they are to you.

Mature Bucks Frequenting A Small Property Aug 08, 2022

During this podcast, we interview a passionate landowner and client from the mid-Atlantic region. This 23-acre property is rocking, so we have to tell you the story. A timber sale and aggressive invasives species removal plan have paved the way for the frequent occurrence of several great mature bucks now using this property and calling it home.

Small property management differs from a larger property, not due to the limitations of size, but more the importance of executing a fine-tuned plan. The spatial arrangement of native vegetation is essential, cover and security are of the utmost importance. Most small properties have multiple neighbors, on top of this, this homestead is surrounded by hunters too, so hunting pressure is high in this area. This property is a fine example of this arrangement, even though the property is oddly shaped and in a hunting neighborhood.

Currently, 4-5 mature bucks are using this farm daily. Do you want that success on your property, listen closely, then execute!

You HAVE to Commit to Maintenance Aug 02, 2022

If you don't plan on maintaining the work you've done, don't bother implementing it! You should consider the maintenance of the farm to not be optional. Remember, quality habitat is not accidental, it is a series of intentional actions. There are very few once-and-done practices in land management.

We see the best and worst of land management in our travels. but one thing rings true, the worst is always the practices that failed to be maintained. This is where the headaches come in. You have to actively observe and set aside time to maintain the work you've previously done. This includes TSI, timber harvest, and invasive species control. During this podcast, we cover a couple of real-life examples of the failure to maintain habitat. The use of herbicide and fire is often a necessary one-two punch to keep the habitat in a productive state. Don't skip the maintenance phase if you intend to have a healthy farm.

If you plan to implement, don't fail to maintain!

The Golden Years of Land Management Aug 01, 2022

This is a different spin on the podcast this week! Adam and Kyle are discussing the how the window of time maybe closing on you making the biggest improvement on your farm. Will your kids be active in dance, baseball, softball, or band? If so, your time might be running out!

Don't let the hustle of life limit you on your time in the field, get after it! One of the biggest factors in success is time and understanding how to manage that time best. We work through the many stages of life and how having the knowledge to attack at the correct time with the correct tools might be the secret to making the most of your limited time. #Forloveoftheland

Top Nonessential Tools for Every Landowner Jul 26, 2022

Do you like saving time, energy and money? We sure do, well there is a long list of tools that if you have access too will cut time and expenses, but they aren’t a must have.

During this podcast we discuss sprayers, spreaders, tractors, implements, chainsaws and much more. There is no better way to do more and do it right than having the right combination of knowledge and equipment.

Be a better land manager and get the right equipment working for you.

Understanding Over-browsed Food Plots Jul 25, 2022

As we all prepare for hunting season mentally, we want to provide you with a series to consider so you get the most out of the fall. So we are going to be going through the most common failures that bowhunters face. There are many reasons why, but join us as we discuss this week, why bowhunters tend to miss or overlook the biggest factors behind over-browsed food plots.

We chat about the 6 main factors that influence why plots are over-browsed, some of these may surprise you. In detail, we mention factors such as sunlight, tree competition, forage selection, number of deer, and many others.

#500 Episodes Down and the Best is Yet to Come Jul 19, 2022

We're celebrating our 500th episode this week! Who can believe it!? 500 episodes beginning from 2017 to today with all things land. We're going to break down our mission, how we've changed, and how we haven't changed. We're discussing some of the ways we hope we change over the next 500 episodes and how we're excited for the future.

Have you ever wondered just how intricate the whole ecosystem is and how we fit in it? We discuss that in more detail as we plan out the future of Land & Legacy !

Squirrel Hunts, Quail Whistles, and Fire Jul 18, 2022

On episode #499 we're talking with our friend Thomas Baldridge about all the things connecting him to the land! Thomas is an avid outdoorsman and prescribed fire enthusiast! While managing his farm in Arkansas he's found many forms of success including an increasing abundant population of Bobwhite quail, and the success doesn't stop there!

With plans to implement a conservation grazing program on native grass specific to his region we're excited to hear the results! We also discuss one of the most important days in Arkansas the opening day of squirrel season and how timber management may have a slight focus on squirrels. #forloveoftheland

Preparing for a Better Farm Jul 12, 2022

This podcast is devoted to the landowners who like to plan, and to the ones who don't like to plan, get with the program!! With every consult our job is to help the landowner the day of the consult and in the future, but there are things the landowner can do to ensure the day is the most successful it can be!

Whether it be soil reports, NRCS contracts, crop contracts, or a road map, these all play a part in helping you as the landowner reach your goals! #Forloveoftheland

5 Positive Trends For Future Land Managers Jul 11, 2022

To follow up our recent podcast discussing the future concerns in land management, it’s only fair if we discuss the things that are looking up! So we breakdown 5 positives changes we seen that will impact our future as landowners and managers.

Topics such as the rise in outdoor media and ability to share outdoor research has drastically increased the spread of good information. Hunter selectivity has without a doubt been greatly improved over the last few decades. The awareness of land ethic and ecological based habitat management has also been on the rise!

Sit back and enjoy this podcast! Let us know what else you’ve seen in your neck of the woods that has impacted Creation in a positive way.

Embracing the Drought - Improving Land in Tough Times Jul 07, 2022

For many land owners across the country, we're in a drought that doesn't seem to be lifting anytime soon. What does this mean for land managers trying to improve their property for wildlife? It means it's time to get to work like usual! Drought doesn't mean to go about our normal routine, it opens the door for more projects that we normally couldn't do without dry weather.

With dry conditions present we can improve the farm with prescribed fire and set back woody vegetation, grasses, and promote a more diverse landscape. We also discuss some of our other plans to make lemonade out of lemons. #Forloveoftheland

July Habitat Management Observations Jul 06, 2022

What's going in the outdoors during the heat of the summer? Where are Matt and Adam Traveling during the summer? we cover these topics and any more on this podcast. We celebrated the 4th of July this week and spent some time explaining the problems we've seen on the landscape in our recent travels.

It's not all bad news though! We share some great updates on projects we've worked on the benefits the land owners are seeing! From Oak savanna's in Nebraska to Prairies of Oklahoma! For Love of the Land

The Six Biggest Threats to Land Management Now and in the Future Jun 28, 2022

Education is the key to remaining on top. Even with interest in land management growing rapidly, there are a few key things that could bottleneck your success. We have to address these concerns early and not shy away from dealing with conflicts. Solutions are out there if we are willing to identify and face the issues head-on.

During this podcast, we dive deep into the future of recreational land ownership. Frank and Matt discuss the 6 largest threats to land management, some of which include topics such as private property size, habitat fragmentation, timber/forester market, volatility in commodity markets, and many other key topics. Be sure to listen closely and carefully as this podcast is meant to educate and prepare listeners to stay diligent and get ahead of the future threats to what we hold so close to us.

We hope you enjoy and share this informative podcast.

How to Grow More Raccoons! Put More on the Farm! Jun 27, 2022

On this podcast, we take a unique angle at how someone would intentionally manage to improve a raccoon habitat. No, we never have met someone who is trying to accomplish this intentionally, however, we must realize that many of our actions have impacts on non-target animals.

Raccoons seem to be the "new coyote" on the scene. A lot of hate is being spread and aimed at this generalist species. It would seem that with the increase in population over the last few decades that many would come to the conclusion that perhaps our efforts to manage whitetails is improving the habitat for raccoons as well. This then begs the difficult questions that no one likes to answer, Are we contributing to the issue?

Top Down vs. Bottom Up Management Jun 21, 2022

This is a podcast on Mindset management. Ask yourself the question, are you managing for the end goal or start to finish? Do you consider individuals of a population or the entire population? It’s time to dig deep into why Bottom-Up management is superior and yields consistent results.

When you manage the land, the wildlife, it’s it’s resources from the bottom-up, you influence the entire life cycle of individuals within a population, opposed to just managing when certain individuals reach maturity. You should be caring for and managing specifically for fawning cover as you do for “buck bedding areas”. You should be managing for brood rearing cover just as you do for strut zones.

Deer Management vs Turkey Management - How They are Not the Same Jun 20, 2022

We've spent a lot of time talking about the decline of the Wild Turkey in the last few years but it's time we get into the weeds of how our management should be different for deer and turkeys. Over the years we've always heard that managing for trophy deer helps the turkeys also, but it's not true.

During this podcast we break down some of the biggest problems with the landscape today and how our management is creating a landscape void of young poult usability. Remember that phrase it takes a village to raise a child? It's going to take a landscape to raise the next generation of poults. #ForLoveoftheLand

Small Crew Big Results with Hunter Johnson Jun 15, 2022

It can be a big task to manage a farm without help or a plan. Hunter Johnson from Arkansas is doing some great work on a big project with very little help! Deer sizes are increasing, quail are returning, turkeys are doing well, and it's all because of managing the landscape.

Thinking big picture, and utilizing the tools at hand have allowed the properties Hunter manages to explode with life. Don't miss out on your properties potential by being overwhelmed.

Don’t Pick Up Where They Left Off Jun 13, 2022

Have you ever found a deer stand in the woods and thought, “this must be a good spot?” That is a common occurrence. Very little thought goes into this decision and it’s time we address the opportunity people get when they become a new owner of a farm.

The worst thing you can do as you take ownership of a new farm is to drive the same roads, access stands the same way, keep all stands in the same locations as the previous owners. Many times, the locations of these features are not correct, yet new landowners don’t take time to reevaluate the farm. Don’t let previous owners determine your future success!!

Share this podcast with someone who needs a fresh outlook on a farm!

Welcome to the Jungle Jun 07, 2022

Its early June and it’s too thick already! With the spring rains, sunny days, and warm

Temperatures, most of the countryside has turned into a jungle of green vegetation. Most would applaud this as food plots are sprouting, but others with a keen eye for quality habitat begin to think it’s time for a disturbance.

In a blink of an eye, we went straight to unusable habitat for a turkey poult in most places. Can you pin point an area where a turkey poult would survive on your farm? Sure, fawns have plenty of cover and young forage, but your goals stated you wanted deer and turkey, not deer and accidentally having turkeys.

It’s time to get serious about improving your land. Get more out of the property, think and okay outside of the box. Creation has no box, it does what it wants, when it wants, how it wants. We should manage in the same way!

Accidental Results - Planned Success Jun 06, 2022

Many times in our travels and consulting across the country we find landowners who are having their best success from accidental projects. These results can range from seeing more turkeys with poults in a field that had been over grazed with cows to more deer using a food plot area because we let it grow up in weeds. There are many projects that have great goals and plans but fall into a barrel of mediocracy.

During this podcast we discuss the difference between planning results and accidental success to hopefully help listeners see which side of the aisle they're on. It's okay if you find yourself having these results occasionally but don't make a living on them!

Sharptail Grouse and Pheasant Management in the West May 31, 2022

We always enjoy working with landowners who have multi-species in mind when it comes to their management and farm goals. On a recent consultation, the landowner was a huge upland game bird enthusiast. So, as part of the plan, we began laying out plans to improve the property specified in the uplands for Sharptail Grouse.

Most of the uplands in eastern Montana were still native ranges, which area combination of tall and short grass prairies and sagebrush. This landscape is arid but often has a cattle lease factored into the equation. So, cattle management is critical to ensure proper habitat necessities for the Sharptail Grouse are met. Mainly we need to focus on residual cover, brood-rearing cover, and shrubs!

Be sure to listen closely even if you will never pull the trigger on a grouse. The finer points and connection with the land and wildlife covered during this podcast is top-notch.

Western Whitetail Management May 30, 2022

This past week, we spent the week working in Eastern Montana. This is not the vision that comes to mind when thinking about hunting whitetails. Most people envision an eastern U.S. ridge top with oaks or fenceline rut hunts in Kansas. However, the adaptive nature of the whitetail deer and human intervention of agriculture in the river bottoms of East Montana create some great hunting opportunities. But, just because there is great hunting, that does not mean there is great habitat and we are about to explain why during this podcast!

With that being said, the big 4 components of a whitetail's needs are explained in relation to the western landscape that receives only 14-15 inches of rain annually. Expansive river bottoms are where whitetails make their living. Most of these areas are suffocated by smooth brome and towering Cottonwoods. This combination drastically reduces cover and foraging opportunities. We however have a plan to remedy this! By sticking to our land management principles, we are going to put the cover and forage back where and how it needs to be placed.

Be sure to follow along as we discuss improving the habitat for whitetails in a western landscape.

Green Isn't Good Enough May 24, 2022

If we've heard it once, we've heard it a thousand times! A green understory doesn't mean that it is desirable vegetation that will produce food or cover for the game species you are looking to promote. You have to know what you are looking at to accurately make that evaluation.

During this podcast, we adjust our lens to look at habitat critically. It's time, to be honest, and really ask yourself, is the vegetation growing in my understory helping or hurting my cause. You have to be able to ID plants to make this observation worthwhile. So once you know what you are looking at, you can begin to determine just how much room for improvement there is. We've seen sites where 50% or more of the plants growing within reach for deer were non-native invasive species. This isn't good!

Be sure you know what you are looking at! If you want to optimize your recreational property, you have to begin by listening to this podcast.

Principles of Land Management May 23, 2022

When it comes to make decisions on your farm for habitat improvement, game management, land ethics, etc there should be a form of checks and balances. These principles will help you decide on whether or not the project you were thinking about doing really is the best practice.

Be ready to take some notes on this podcast as we chat about our four habitat principles according to Land & Legacy. These principles should be at the forefront of every project on your farm. How does your screening plans measure up in the principle of land management? You're considering a 50 acre monoculture planting? Sorry that won't make the cut as healthy habitat management according to the principles of land management.

Balancing Prairie Restoration and Hunt-ability May 17, 2022

During this podcast, Kyle and Matt discuss a recent consultation trip to SE Kansas. This property was located at the point in which the Cross Timbers region meets the tall grass prairie. There were lots of great opportunities to create quality habitat for deer, but we ran into a predicament!

This podcast is a great example of we find the balance between habitat restoration practices and accomplishing a very hunt able property! Natural resource management is paramount and at the forefront at how we work with each farm. But we are forced to compromise this to a small degree sometimes when the property in full restoration mode will not accomplish to landowners' goals. Clearly defined goals are super important when we find ourselves in this situation.

If you are wondering how to balance native restoration practices and hunt ability, give this podcast a listen!

How To Buy Your First Recreational Property May 16, 2022

Here is your buyer's guide for recreational property. This a step-by-step guide to preparing you for a land purchase. We are joined by Whitetail Properties agent Ben Richardson of northern Alabama. Ben is an incredible resource for anyone purchasing land and he has some wonderful tips for the first-time recreational buyer.

During the podcast, we break down what buyers should be prepared for from loans, goals, desires, buying and closing timelines, and strategies to get started in buying hunting property. This podcast is long overdue but necessary as we encourage all who are interested in buying land to do your research but most importantly, you need to start.

Becoming a landowner can be a long process, however being prepared is the best advice we can give. Be sure to give this podcast a listen if you want to begin buying land.

Food Plot Plans and New Techniques May 11, 2022

We're discussing our food plot strategies for this spring planting and how we're trying new things! Over the years we've never been scared to try new things while never forgetting what's worked. One thing is true , the Heritage blend from Stratton seed company is a killer spring food plot blend, but we always like to try something new.

We've grown to love perennial food plots for year round usage but there is a portion of the fall when standing grain is dynamite. We're looking to put standing grain and perennial clovers together and see what happens!

Turkey Season Regulations and Trapping Predators May 10, 2022

This week we discuss the wild turkey with Frank Loncarich and hear about his spring season. It was a slow spring for a lot of hunters this year with lower turkey populations and cold, windy weather. There are many variables in creating a slow spring when it came to filling tags and hearing gobbles.

We also discuss the new regulation changes in Missouri for trapping. They're similar to Arkansas regulations and you know how well those helped the population there! ha! If you can't tell we have lots of questions for the department and who's making these decisions.

Hard Gobbling Longbeard:Hunt Breakdown May 04, 2022

We have a treat for you! We've included audio from our turkey hunt here in Missouri that took place during the last week of the season. These longbeards were fired up and responding to every sound in the timber. Yes, it was one of those hunts, nonstop gobbling until they strutted into 25 yards.

The evening previous these same turkeys were gobbling on the limb after fly up, so we were able to make a firm plan for the morning's hunt. We knew we had to be on the same hardwood bench as them and that we needed to get as close as possible! We snuck to 100 yards from them on the limb and let the hunt unfold.

Be sure to listen closely to the techniques, sounds, calls, and timing/usage of each of them. Talking turkey isn't always about making the perfect clean yelp. Turkeys make vocalizations as well as sounds as they move about the landscape. These tips will help you close the deal in the turkey woods!

A Deeper Understanding of Turkey Predation with Dr. Bret Colier May 03, 2022

Sometimes we all gravitate toward the easy options or less complex issues at hand. However, if we want to understand turkeys and their reproductive cycles more, then we have to take a deep dive off the deep end into the reality of predation during nesting season.

We chat with Dr. Colier in detail about the tendency for hunters to place trail cameras over turkey nests to attempt to document the events that will unfold, whether it be hatching or predation. However, this causes issues and drastically increases the chance of a nest being predated upon. In addition, we have to ask ourselves within the realm of predators is, who are the predators versus the scavengers in this equation? Are hens getting bumped off nests and then scavengers are taking eggs or is a hen predated and then scavengers will come and raid a nest that would fail regardless? This issue is complex, so we have to tackle it with opinions aside and let the facts speak for themselves.

If you want a real conversation about the state of wild turkeys, then tune in!

Fruit and Oak Tree Plantings - The Good, Bad, and the Ugly Apr 26, 2022

First and foremost, we are talking about detail work this week! Yes, we are not talking just 80 grit management. This is the fine-tuning and finish work or perhaps the icing on the cake. We are talking about planting fruit trees and mast producers on recreational property.

When you dig in and find a better mousetrap, you know you are on to something! Foraging swamping is a new term that we are bringing to the table regarding the placement, addition, and congregation of food resources in relation to bedding and other factors of the property. Fruit tree selection based should be relative to the area and the other supplemental forages in that area of the farm. We want to swamp the area with as many high-quality food resources as possible that all correlate to each other.

To learn more of when, where, and how to plant soft and hard mast give this podcast a listen!

Identifying Micro-Climates on Your Property Apr 26, 2022

What is a Micro-Climate? Have you ever heard of that before? Did you know that you are likely impacting or creating a micro-climate right now as we speak? Better tune up to this podcast as we discuss the interworking of how vegetation, shade, humidity alters the future of the site drastically.

This podcast will change the way you look at your land. This podcast is designed to connect you intimately with the vegetation growing on your property and the results of them. We are talking about soil temperatures, moistures levels, and species of vegetation present. Micro-climates will open your eyes to see more parts of your farm in greater detail.

We hope you enjoy this podcast! Tune in next week for more land management content.

Reading the Body Language of a Wild Turkey Apr 20, 2022

The best turkey callers are not ones who sound the best throughout every yelping sequence or one that can make the most delicate turkey noises, it's those who know when and what to say based on a turkeys body language.

Body posture, gobbling response time/intensity, strutting direction, and head color change, are all indicators we look very closely at when calling in a longbeard. These are telltale signs of when the next call needs to occur and the intensity in which you deliver it.

During the opening day of Missouri's turkey season, Chainsaw Chad had a hunt that unfolded just 35 yards in front of him which provides you will some great insight on why this scenario worked on an early gobbler with hens. Follow along on this podcast to learn the details that matter when closing the deal wild turkeys.

We're Missing the Point Apr 19, 2022

What is the purpose of land? Why would you wish you're hunting success on luck?

We sit down with the Element guys this week to discuss hunting, fishing, and Christ. We cover a lot of topics so buckle up!

Full Throttle Habitat = Success Apr 12, 2022

During the last few weeks of working across the country, we have seen successes and results around every corner. There is one theme however that rings true, the harder you push the envelope on habitat, the better you get. There is no dipping your toe in and finding incredible long-lasting success, it's full-on!

Follow along with us this week as we discuss the results from western Oklahoma, southern Florida, central Alabama, and central Pennsylvania. No matter where you go or what landscape you find yourself in, the results are there to be found if you don't get in the way. Sometimes the best thing to do is commit and implement. This sounds simple, but remember your results are waiting for you on the other side of the commitment.

The Proper Use and Application of Four Land Management Tools Apr 12, 2022

During this week's podcast, Matt and Frank discuss the usage, application, and perspective that involve the four main types of habitat management tools. The four main types include prescribed fire, grazing, timber cutting/harvesting, and herbicide application.

These tools and their usage fall along a wide spectrum of usage, on both ends of the spectrum, either overuse or no use of each tool is less than ideal. The middle ground is where you find our recommendations lie. There is a balance that all land managers must find when it comes to using these tools and getting the responses you want the most. Factors such as regions, vegetation types, and climate all impact what is proper usage for you in your situation, not someone on social media.

It's time to use these tools appropriately to generate the response that will achieve your results.

Setting Goals that Make Sense - Destinations not Directions Apr 05, 2022

How do you know when you've accomplished your goals? Is it the amount of deer you're seeing, the turkeys harvested, or the amount of money made on the farm? Whatever your goals are we can all agree that defining them is a must but sometimes it's hard to make those goals and we can get lost on the road. That road is without a destination but more just a direction to travel. This is where many are leading us in the direction of soil health. We're told we should be working to improve it, we're told to believe we can have amazing crops, and we're also told it could mean healthier animals, bigger bucks. Here's the problem, none of it can be proven and it all comes back to smoke and mirrors.

No Fire is Created the Same Apr 05, 2022

This week we're discussing a recent prescribed fire at "The Woodlands" and how each and every burn unit has the ability to provide different results from each burn year to the next. You know what they say "Fires are burning up the turkey nests!" Let's get real here, grassland fires are about the only fire that burns 95% of the burn units. Timber burns with much terrain will almost always have areas that didn't burn.

We're also discussing the encounter Chad had the day after the burn with a lone hen. This strange encounter leads us to believe something else may be happening to our turkeys! #Forloveofhteland

Connecting with The Natural World with Kyle Lybarger Mar 29, 2022

During this podcast we catch up with fellow conservationist, Kyle Lybarger of the Native Plant Society. Kyle has a strong passion for natural history and ecology, so he shared is depth of knowledge with us.

Passion is the start of something great. So learning about the complexities of the naturalist world helped to shape Kyle and fuel his outside educational experiences. Follow along as we need out about woodlands and savannas.

Generational Land Management - Hold the Line Mar 28, 2022

It's hard not to be romantic about managing and improving a farm. After all this land could be apart of your legacy. Imagine the idea that one day your kids or grandkids could benefit from the work you've done on your farm. Sounds exciting right?! Bad news though, silver bullets are often "gone like the wind." They have no lasting impact on the land, so if you're focusing on food plots, feeders, trapping, mineral, your work will only have short term gain.

We base our management off of using God's template for land management and ensure we use natural disturbances to promote healthy ecosystems. Imagine your kids hearing the sound of Bobwhite Quail Whistling in a restored pine savanna that you completed with a plan of attack and the grit to complete? It's an amazing thought to have. Now, stop thinking about it and go do it!

Quality Habitat Doesn't Always Mean Quality Hunting Mar 22, 2022

During this week's podcast, we hit a subject that some landowners are all too familiar with, poor hunting. No one wants to have to endure a season of poor success, spooking deer, and observations from afar. After a consulting visit to Virginia, Matt worked on a farm that had executed a previous plan and had begun to offer some quality habitat that was diverse. They were managing a farm intentionally, but the previous plan didn't involve any hunting strategy. This was a missing element that was key for the landowner's objectives.

So this week, we discuss how critical it is to plan out a hunting strategy prior to executing habitat management. Without access and wind direction in mind, quality habitat becomes less useful. We have to keep in mind and make room for secure areas to hold deer, transition areas to encourage daylight movement, but also destination food plots that are huntable. The movement of wildlife and the spatial arrangement of certain habitat features in a property design is the difference between having wildlife and successfully being able to hunt them.

Execution is key, but prior to executing, a proper planning session is always necessary!

Turkey & Deer Hunts at The Woodlands! Mar 21, 2022

We're breaking down all the latest work completed at the Keith farm, better known as "The Whistling Woodlands!" Over the last few months we've completed more Glade restoration, brush management, riparian tree planting with over 1300 trees, and some screening with evergreens, switchgrass, and shrubs. A lot is changing on the farm in a short amount of time.

Now here's your chance, we're only taking a select number of hunters but we're offering two turkey hunts and four deer hunts in 2022. This will be a consult as well as a hunt, hunting in the mornings and viewing the property and learning techniques during the afternoons! Nothing has ever been offered like this before so don't miss it! Come and hunt with us!

The Maintenance Phase of Land Management with Travis Sumner Mar 15, 2022

This week we are joined by Travis Sumner of NWTF. Travis among many other jobs at NWTF manages the NWTF property at their headquarters in Edge Field, SC. This property has been transformed and is really taking shape with the strict management techniques that they deploy across the property.

In recent years, the property has entered into a new phase of land management. The heavy lifting or implementation phase has transitioned into more maintenance of the quality habitat that exists. The property is now diverse, time to keep it that way! Travis shares his stories about how they got here and the joy that comes with arriving at the maintenance phase of a project like this!

We hope you enjoy this podcast and share it with your hunting buddies!

100% of Turkey Nests Destroyed by Predators Mar 15, 2022

For several years the talk of the town is about wild turkeys and the decline many people are experiencing across the country. The reasons and factors influencing this are long. However, predators seem to be the easy button for a lot of folks!

With this, people try to defend their position and end up using old and poorly executed research to make their claims seem more relevant and influential. However, today, we call their bluff. If we care about wild turkeys, we need real information that will create change!

At Land & Legacy, we take the practical, impactful, and functional way to solve natural resource-related issues! Let's take the steps moving forward, not ones that just make us feel good.

Remember We Are All Hunters At Our Core Mar 08, 2022

During this podcast, you will hear from two die-hard hunters! They reside in Arkansas and they know a thing or two about managing the land. At the foundation, however, they are passionate users of the wild turkey resource.

The most important thing to consider is them as hunters on a mission, just like Adam, Matt, Frank, Kyle, and Chainsaw Chad. We all wear many different hats, no matter who you work for or what your role is in land management, private or public!

We hope you enjoy this REAL conversation about turkey hunting and the future of turkey management.

We Want to Learn How to Burn with Primos' Lake Pickle Mar 07, 2022

It's all the craze, everyone wants to learn how to use prescribed fire. It's the most underutilized but effective tool a land manager can use. This week we sit down at the NWTF Show with Lake Pickle from Primos to discuss ways they intend to up their management game when it comes to land they hunt in the central Mississippi.

Many others are in the same boat ask Lake Pickle and the Primos Team, they want to learn but are afraid to take the leap of putting flame on the ground. It's time that we all rally around solid information about using the technique. Link arms with neighbors, friends and form a wildlife co-op to use this prescribed fire as your disturbance regime on your recreational property.

Cost-Share Dollars for Timber Improvement with NFI Mar 01, 2022

Ever wondered how to utilize EQIP or other cost-share programs to improve your land? This we sit down with the folks from National Forestry Initiative. This is a collaborative effort of NWTF and the NRCS to bring more trained foresters into the area to assist landowners in completing forestry management plans and cost-share practices.

Wise forestry practice and forestry health are critical for wild turkeys. As NWTF has seen forest health decline as the average timber ages on the stump, they took action and decided to increase the opportunity for landowners seeking help in property management.

We hope you enjoy this step-by-step process of getting cost-share dollars to work for you on your own property and increase the quality of habitat that you can offer on your property!

What's Your Role in Turkey Management with Dr. Mike Chamberlain Mar 01, 2022

This podcast is upfront and honest about the ways we all can be UNITED in the management of the wild turkey and its resources. For years now researchers like Dr. Mike Chamberlain and his colleagues have been doing their best to pinpoint reasons for the decline many folks have been seeing of the wild turkey. We know more now than we did 5 years ago, so we are we still seeing declines, why aren't we collaboratively joining in the fight and making the necessary changes.

There are a lot of factors that are contributing to the wild turkey decline, which means that are many different ways we can all contribute, so in this podcast, we break down the role that State Game agencies play, public land managers, hunters or conservationists, and landowners. Most everybody will fall into one of these categories and we clearly define what each group can do. With a united front and action taken, we can reverse the direction of the wild turkey.

We hope you enjoy the podcast, please share with those who are ready to take action!

NWTF Convention Intro: Stay Open-Minded Feb 22, 2022

This week, we lay the groundwork for some great content coming soon to the Land & Legacy Podcast. Chainsaw Chad is co-hosting this Wild Turkey series with Matt as they interview many folks from different land management perspectives across the country.

We encourage everyone to stay open-minded as they listen to this series. If we are all going to learn and do the best for our natural resources, we are going to have to work together to accomplish it and do so, unitedly. We also need call on all private landowners, it's our shoulders where the bulk of this load is being carried. The wild turkey is our resource to manage, so let's do it with pride and passion as we walk in step with one another.

Be ready for some great interviews with many different professionals! We hope you enjoy the content and education.

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Hunting Iowa as a Nonresident Feb 22, 2022

During this podcast, we chat with Garret Armstrong of Whitetail Properties. Garret serves the western Iowa region within the state. In addition to being a productive real estate agent selling land, he is a passionate hunter and landowner. His insight into the state is extremely valuable as he discloses the secrets to hunting whitetails in Iowa as a nonresident.

The most sought-after locations within the state have often been narrowed down to zones 4 and 5. These are great regions, but they do not favor the nonresident as it takes 4-5 years to hunt them with a bow. However, Zone 3 offers hunting opportunities every other year. So, a nonresident can hunt their farm twice as much if that farm resides in Zone 3.

It just so happens, that collectively, we can offer that exact opportunity. Garrett is now offering a Land & Legacy managed farm near Castana, IA which lies in Zone 3. If you are interested, please contact Garret Armstrong!

7 Principles of Building Diversity into Your Hunting Property Feb 15, 2022

Do you ever wonder how to create a more diverse property or even question what that actually means? During this podcast, we create a road map of how to layer diversity into your property. This will give you a strong foundation on how to identify ways that you can improve your own property. Or, this can be used as a buyer's guide to making sure they buy the best farm possible. The most productive hunting properties are the most diverse in any given area.

We first start out by identifying the biotic and abiotic features of a property. This is the start or foundation that the rest of the podcast is built upon. The other factors of layering diversity into a property include topography, soils, terrain features, elevation, plant communities, and then disturbance regimes. Don't worry, although this is a heavy podcast, we spend time on each subject to explain in detail how it impacts your success and the frequency of game animals using your property.

Don't miss this podcast, we drop some knowledge bombs that will take your understanding of the land and natural resources to a much deeper understanding. Enjoy, Learn, Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

Whitetail Properties - Buying Hunting Land Then and Now Feb 15, 2022

During this episode of the Land & Legacy podcast, we break down the connection between our business and Whitetail Properties. It's pretty easy to see that we both serve landowners across the country, but there is a deeper connection and it starts with humble beginnings.

You will hear two different interviews during this podcast. We speak with one of the owners of Whitetail Properties Paul Sawyer to discuss why and how the company got started. This interview may surprise you, this company has grinded from the start to position itself at the top of the recreational real estate business.

In addition, we speak with the marketing Director Alex Gyllstrom to hear about the future of the company and how it relates to Land & Legacy. This combination takes two companies that have a clear vision of their future and aims to maximize the landownership experience for hunters across the country. This goal is big, however, with our strengths together it is achievable. #ForLoveoftheLand

Sea to Shining Sea - Consulting Season Feb 08, 2022

From the swamps of Georgia to the mountains of Virginia to the salt rivers of western Oklahoma, we've put the miles on lately. Each property has a whole new set of obstacles to improve the land and habitat for wildlife but we're always happy to find the tools and techniques to help the landowner reach their goals.

What do you do with an 11 month growing season in the south? How do you control the over growth and maintain a landscape thats diverse and manageable? How do you utilize a property with shear cliffs around the farm making navigation almost impossible? We cover all these challenges and more this week!

Wildlife Openings - Benefitting All Wildlife Feb 08, 2022

Almost every farm has one, it's that place you planted in a food plot years back that you stopped planting for many reasons. It sits along the road to your favorite stand but you stopped planting because it wouldn't grow well. It's that little opening in the timber that you never gave much attention too and it's mostly grass. These areas spread across the United States and could offer huge potential to landowners if they managed them correctly.

We're going to discuss the management of these areas, the concept behind them and why they should be on your farm! Remember, turkeys and quail need more disturbance than deer and it's important that we offer areas like that on our farm. Check out this podcast to hear us unpack the concept of wildlife openings.

Small Deer to Big Deer with Dr. Bronson Strickland Feb 01, 2022

This will likely be one of our best podcasts in awhile! No offense to the previous and the future podcasts but Dr. Bronson Strickland covers one of our favorite research projects we've ever read about. Isn't the dream for all whitetail deer managers that you could take your small deer and small antlered deer and turn them into bigger deer? We cover it here this week.

It's not as easy as it may seem but through this research it gave hope to guys like us managing in an overlooked part of the world due to the sheer small sizes of the deer. This is generational not yearly changes, this isn't just culling inferior bucks, this is complex but more simple than you might think!

Now, even with all this management and changes in the habitat we still have to worry about dispersal and we're ultimately giving our deer everything they can have to send the yearling bucks packing to our neighbors right?! Not so fast! We have an idea!

https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/publications/p3013.pdf

Predator Series - Trapping How To Feb 01, 2022

Which weather forecast is better for trapping raccoons and possums and which is better for trapping coyotes, bobcats, and foxes? Don't know? you'll want to tune into this podcast! Which brand of dog proof trap is best for catching raccoons, and possums? Don't know? Be sure to listen to this podcast.

Kyle is sharing his techniques for successful trap lines that he's used for years to try and remove predators on the landscape. From favorite traps, to lures, to coyote sets he shares it all!

We also cover the new trapping changes possibly coming to Missouri and we discuss other states with similar seasons and if it yielded higher turkey numbers.

Kansas Consultation Review: Making a Midwest Farm Functional Jan 25, 2022

In this week's episode, we catch up with Kyle Hedge, Land & Legacy consultant, who spends a day working in Southeast Kansas. This consultation like many provided some unique opportunities to improve the habitat. There were plenty of surprises along the way that Kyle discovers on the site visit that alter the future plans of the farm.

Like many recreational farms, this property has some great pinch points and funnels that dissect the farm, as well as a great river corridor. Hunting the property is not difficult, however, these landowners wanted to make the property and natural resources more attractive to wildlife. Success is great, but being a land steward on top of hunting success is a goal we should all strive for.

Kyle reviews with us in detail the plans he has to make this happen for the client. He is going to develop a road map or blue-prints for them to follow and execute. These new landowners will have plenty of work to keep them busy, but many memories to create along the way.

Predator Series - Managing Habitat Against Predators Jan 25, 2022

What if we told you that the way you're managing your farm is better for predators and not for prey? What if we said your timber looks like you're trying to increase raccoon numbers? What if we said your fields are better for egg eaters and not successful egg hatches? There are many ways to manage for predators on your farm!

The most common technique landowners use to manage for predators is through trapping, but there are other ways to do it!

This week Adam, Frank, and Kyle discuss ways to manage your habitat that can help decrease the usability of predators. This could be grazing with livestock, to burning, to removing large snag trees, these practices all have an impact on animals you may not want on your farm. Stay tuned to hear what techniques you should be using.

Habitat Management Works Best When You're All In! Jan 18, 2022

After a week of consulting in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas the Land & Legacy team has some great insights to share from these farms. In addition, we discuss one of the principles of land management that Land & Legacy applies to every property, that is ecosystem mindset.

To explain further, we aren't here to only apply half of the habitat management techniques that any given property should have. Each technique builds upon itself so that once the plan is in place the results should grow exponentially. Old field management has a different role than a wood lot that has been thinned and burned or a food plot edge that has been edge feathered. With all of these techniques in place, they support one another like an ecosystem. They all improve the property and not one is the sole reason for more success.

When you start the improve the land, go ALL in! Think bigger and treat your property like an ecosystem for the most success!

Predator Management Series: What Do Predators Eat? Jan 18, 2022

It's January and traps are in the field during this time of the year. There is no doubt that many people are considering the idea of trapping predators to assist prey species such as quail, wild turkeys, and whitetail deer. During this podcast, we break down the biggest predator threats to these game species. We go into detail about who is consuming the prey and if trapping is a viable option to make a difference in the prey species.

Kyle Hedges a Land & Legacy consultant brings his extensive knowledge of trapping and biology to the table. We use documented and peer-reviewed research to highlight the key points throughout the discussion. Our goal with this podcast is to discuss the relationship between predators and prey. There is nothing direct in this relationship. It is complicated and complex, we do our best to highlight this through unbiased discussion.

Stay tuned for more on predators and the habitat they utilize during next week's podcast. We will discuss ways to make your property less inviting to predator species!

The Best Year of Land Management is Ahead of You Jan 11, 2022

As the calendar turns to 2022, it is a great time to set new goals, expectations, and refuel to make the most out of your recreational land during 2022. The best is yet to come if you plan accordingly and devote your extra time to learning about natural resource management.

During this podcast, we take a scroll back through the archives. We relive some of the best or most downloaded podcasts from Land & Legacy. These podcasts were toe-crunching truths regarding land management. They set a tone for landowners. They encourage new thoughts or paradigm shifts to previous ideas regarding how to manage a recreational property.

This podcast is going to give you the best of hits to download again so that you can set yourself up for success during 2022. Be intentional and decisive when making decisions about how to improve your property.

Low Input, High Yielding Food Plots Jan 11, 2022

Sit back and enjoy another fantastic guest discussing a new food plot management technique that requires low inputs. There is a method to the madness that you will discover when we speak with agronomist and crop consultant Mitt Wardlaw.

Mitt shares his thoughts on the ways to fight high inflation food plots that we discussed last week on the podcast. His insight and knowledge on costs and planning for expenses to get the most out of the soil are impressive. In addition, we go into detail regarding his time and expense-saving food plot regime. Despite planting grain crops, Mitt is able to have great yields, low weed pressure by only planting the right seed at the appropriate times. He uses plant growth characteristics to make the most out of his plot. For every crop of corn he plants, he will follow up with three legume crops to feed the soil. Balansa clover is an annual variety that helps fight weed control and rejuvenate the soil.

To learn more, be sure to download this podcast and share it with your friends. We will be watching who shares the podcast, we got some giveaways for you!

New Beginnings and Bright Futures Jan 04, 2022

2022 has started out with a big surprise for those who follow along with Land & Legacy. We have started a new podcast feed and what to invite everyone to subscribe and follow along. In addition, we have a new partner to unveil!

Throughout the years of Land & Legacy, real estate has always been a part of what we do and how we present information. Therefore it only makes sense to have a strong relationship with Whitetail Properties Real Estate. This partnership is going to be a big opportunity for those who enjoy video content as well. You will see Land & Legacy hosting many of the videos on LandBeat. Check out the content on social media and Youtube.

We are excited for what the future holds and how each of you can be more of a part of it. We ask that you assist us helping share the new podcast feed with your friends and family.

Fighting High Inflation Food Plots Jan 04, 2022

Ready or not the high-priced food plots are coming. The price of herbicide, fertilizer, freight, and seed is here. Food plot planting during 2022 is going to look different and expensive, so necessary precautions should be taken. Prior planning is essential so you don't break the bank.

We cover four main ways to not fall victim to paying the high price for inputs this year. First, we discuss the ways to cut herbicide usage. Secondly, we explain the role that perennial plots like the Revival blend from Stratton Seed is an eleven-month crop for many portions of the country. It also does not need to be planted annually, this crop should last 6-7 years. The third option is to consider allowing some food plots to go fallow for a year. Lastly, we discuss how producing food for wildlife doesn't have to be in the form of food plots. Native vegetation should play an even larger role moving forward on your recreational property.

Please share this message with other landowners so they can plan food plots properly for 2022 and beyond.

Habitat Work Completed in One Year Dec 28, 2021

Looking back over the year it's easy to think the work list did not get completed as hoped but when you put it all on paper you might feel very accomplished! Chainsaw Chad and Adam are working through the previous year at the Whistling Woodlands.

We started the year with the initial purchase of the property and immediately hit the ground running with projects. Over the course of 11 months we were able to restore a glade, improve some old fields, create more food plots, add water holes and many other projects. This is a product of having a plan and sticking to it! Prioritizing your projects is one of the biggest ways to cut time and make things happen! #Forloveoftheland

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Is Your Property Even Producing Mature Deer? Dec 28, 2021

We hear about property goals every day. Most folks want to harvest mature deer or the biggest deer the neighborhood produces. This goal has a flaw and we address that flaw in this week's podcast. To shoot mature deer, you have to produce them. Ask yourself, does your property produces mature deer on a regular basis? Most folks who answer this honestly would say, no or not as many as I would like.

Imagine if you could take your same property and increase the ability to produce 2-4 mature deer every year as opposed to one occasionally. The secret sauce here beyond trigger control is to create a secure environment. A secure environment is based on the density of cover offered at ground level. If you don't have it, then the chances of producing mature deer annually drastically decrease. There is no substitute here!

If you want to shoot older deer, keep it simple, make more of them!

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Late Season Iowa Buck Harvest Dec 21, 2021

This trip has been one that has been developing for several years. We have built a great relationship with very generous and passionate landowners in Western Iowa. After the invite was made Matt drew the lucky straw to hunt Iowa during the second shotgun season.

In October the group worked together to close on a 137-acre farm that had some serious deer already on the farm. We've been in the process of developing a plan on this farm through the fall but now was the time to see how the deer moved for ourselves. During the second shotgun season, the weather was warm, but the deer were moving well at last light. The right buck stepped out into the field with one minute to spare.

This buck was a great representative of what western Iowa is capable of producing. But, we expect more and will see this farm develop even more in the coming months and years. It is a true dream to work on a farm with this foundation of habitat.

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How To Play Both Offense and Defense: Land Management Dec 21, 2021

For years the hunting industry has developed strategies and products for hunters to be more effective. There has been some great information shared along the journey. This information has really been a more defensive approach detailing the ways to intercept the movement of specific animals at precise times.

This podcast reveals how many recreational owners have only been playing with half a strategy. A defense-only approach is like operating a farm at 50% productivity. We are here to share how to play offense with land management. Knowing how to manipulate the wildlife within certain areas is a huge advantage. However, the real advantage comes when the defense knows the plays the offense is going to run ahead of time. There is not a game you cannot win when you know the playbook or have created the playbook yourself.

We want to stress the importance of how to win and reach your goals. The strategy lies in designing and knowing both the offense and defense of your specific property.

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What’s More Important, Overstory or Understory? Dec 14, 2021

Timber management is a huge part of wildlife management. However it seems there is a common disconnect with the purpose or intent of managing the timbered acres on your hunting property. Thinning around mast trees and removing weed trees is great, but it doesn’t stop there. You should be more concerned with the response from the understory. That’s where the wildlife make a living. Manage for the mast to be a bonus and the understory to feed. That will be the most productive timber you can create and manage. This podcast is great for those who are about to embark on timber management this winter!! Time to crank of the chainsaws.

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There is No Time for Willy Nilly Land Management Dec 14, 2021

Have you been plagued by poor planning and execution of land management practices? Do you regret your decision to add a food plot in that location? These are all common but avoidable situations. We see many land improvement practices fall victim to poor planning or haphazard reactionary land management. When considering your impact on the land, you need to have serious forethought. Ask yourself, how will this impact deer now and in the future? To learn how to avoid costly mistakes and become more efficient, give this podcast a listen.

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How to Create and Hunt Bedding Areas for Whitetail Deer Dec 07, 2021

When you own the secure cover in the neighborhood, you own deer during daylight hours. This creates more opportunities for hunting and encountering mature deer on a more regular basis. There are not any huge secrets here. In order to get dense cover you have to cut trees!

In this podcast, we discuss with Brady Bradley the best ways to cut in bedding units. Brady works with us on clients. farms to implement bedding cuts. Brady has cut in many acres! Trees tremble when he arrives. During this podcast, you will learn the finer points on how to implement this strategy.

To top it all off, Brady killed a great buck this season by hunting in close proximity to a bedding thicket. These success stories just keep coming, so we are going to continue sharing ways that you can also be successful.

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Habitat Management in Kansas with Kyle Hedges Dec 07, 2021

Imagine owning 160 acres but still living two and a half hours away! How would you go about making an impact on the landscape with limited time? Now imagine owning that farm, finding the time to do the work, and now it's hunting season, how do you come up with a game plan and have success at filling tags? Does this sound like your farm? Make sure you tune in to hear how our very own Kyle Hedges makes this happen?

Making the biggest impact in the shortest amount of time possible is a big problem many landowners face, including Kyle. WIth a game plan in place and utilizing natural disturbance and chainsaws it's easy to make it all come together! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Oak Management Recap - How Does this apply to a Landowner? Nov 30, 2021

After enjoying the conversation on the other podcast this week with Dr. Marcus Lashley so much, we felt it was best to further unpack why this information is significant and how it can be applied to your land. With every guest and topic, we do, this is the question we want to address and answer as plainly as possible.

So Matt and Adam spend an hour discussing with you the ways we can be more productive and set up farms in relation to acorn mast-producing trees. How do we hunt based on this information is another question we answer during this podcast recap. Of course, we do address the question of which acorn is more impactful to deer, red or white?

We hope you enjoy this podcast and take the information to heart! Time to make our land the best it can be!

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Understanding Oak Management for Wildlife with Dr. Marcus Lashley Nov 30, 2021

Grab your pens and paper, because you are getting ready to learn on this podcast with Dr. Marcus Lashley. We take a deep dive into the production, selection preferences of red versus white oaks, and forage habitats of whitetail deer regarding mast production. Just like most things in life, once you learn a little, you are left with more questions versus answers.

For years hunters have placed more significance on the white oak acorn over the red acorn. This isn't often debated, more accepted, however, that is nonsense. There is more to learn about these little nuggets of fat than we thought. Acorn viability is there determining factor in the timing of foraging. What about fall burning, how does that impact selection of mast species? Well, we discuss this as well during the podcast.

Come to this podcast with an open mind! The foraging behavior of whitetail deer is just incredible, so land managers and deer hunters need to pay attention and learn how to make the most of this quality information.

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Cut, Burn, Hunt, Repeat, A Client Success Story Nov 23, 2021

One of our goals is to try and simplify the learning curve and process for landowners who are interested in getting the most out of their recreational land. Not everyone has the time or devote hours to learning about natural resource management. One simple phrase that we've put together is cut, burn, repeat! This is as simple as it gets and still will yield results, and Mike Hinkle joins us this week to testify.

Mike has been managing a farm in North Missouri intensely for about 5 years now. Over the course of this time, he has seen some drastic changes in his farm. He has cut the timber and burned! Mike put in temporary forest openings, edge feathered, and completed several TSI projects, then he followed up with prescribed fire. Mike has done this all the while being a nonresident over 10 hours away. This is not easy! In addition, Mike has harvested three mature bucks, two over 160 inches off this farm in the last two seasons. To say this is working is an understatement.

We hope you will join us for this great testimonial. Working the land and being intentional when you do it is important if you want results.

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Habitat Management During the RUT Nov 23, 2021

It's always time to get to work improving habitat, even during the rut! On this week's podcast Matt and Adam discuss all the work they've been working on during October and November and also lay out the work for the coming weeks. From Food plot creation, timber thinning, invasive species control, and old field management we cover it all! Remember the work has to be done, and it can get done, but knowing when to do it is crucial! If the cool season grasses aren't sprayed this fall, then they'll need to be sprayed next spring when it's time to burn.

Don't Underestimate the power of good planning and the ability to get work done now, and not waiting till this winter. We also discuss the herd management and recent hunts that have occurred at the Woodlands and Elim Ridge. #Forloveoftheland

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How to Accomplish More Habitat Work with OnX Nov 16, 2021

We all start out with the best of intentions when it comes to the work we want to accomplish on a property. We create our own to - do lists while hunting but then sit an wonder where the time went and why only half the work got done.

There are tons of tools available to help manage work, however we recommend using OnX Hunt! This tool now allows you to create layers and folders to store information, waypoints, shape file, etc. So our pro-tip is to take the to-do list you’ve created and block out each unit you want to work but then sort them in folders based on each month. Only focus on the work you’ve added to the folder for the month you are in. So in March you should only be working on March projects. Stay on track and on task! That will get you more improved land quickly!

Use the code Land&Legacy20 to save yourself on a yearly subscription!

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Insider Secrets to Growing Giant Whitetails Annually Nov 16, 2021

Are there really secrets left in deer management? The answer is no, but we still have lots left to figure out. One aspect of deer management that seems to be forgotten is the idea of overall herd management.

Hunters seem to divide the deer population into two segments and treat them separately despite them being the same animal. We can’t expect to consistently grow above average bucks in a given sea in stressful conditions. Nothing and no one does well under stress, yet many hunters allow deer herds to become stressed in relation to population dynamics and the carrying capacity. We’ve got to manage the natural resource and find the balance or harmony with the land to reach an optimal state that produces giant deer annually.

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Kansas Rut Hunting and Habitat Features Nov 09, 2021

Even in great neighborhoods with a history of giant bucks can use a little work, and in many cases a lot of work! Aaron Woodward, a Land & Legacy client, with a farm in southeastern Kansas has been working to improve his farm for several years now. Back in 2019 Adam and Kyle visited his farm to help advise a plan to improve the habitat for deer, turkeys and quail, and the farm has been getting better and better!

Between bedding thickets, timber stand improvement, invasive species control, and crp establishment, the farm is setting up to be an incredible farm. On this particular hunt Aaron utilizes the habitat work he's done to place himself in the hot seat for an incredible November hunt! #Forloveoftheland

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The Rut is Your Litmus Test Nov 09, 2021

How's your rutcation going? Do you look forward to the rut on your property or despise it? What does that say about your property and the management of the natural resources? We are here this week to break it down in detail as we compare and contrast two different farms and two different rut hunting experiences.

Farms with highly managed habitat can be incredible places to hunt during any time of the year, but those with a proper layout and distribution of dense cover are exciting to say the least! In comparison, those farms with no definition of the habitat or very few pinch points can spell disaster for a deer hunter during the rut. In other words, the rut is your litmus test for your recreational property.

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Executing the Gameplan - A Missouri Buck Falls Nov 02, 2021

On this weeks podcast we re-tell the story of a buck named Goofy. Adam was fortunate to harvest this buck with a bow on his second sit for Goofy. That was not by accident!

The story takes some twists and turns, but follow along with us to learn about the game plan that was developed to intercept this unique mature buck. There is no surprise why he was using the area of the farm like he was, but the hunt setup and grunting used to seal the deal was special!

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How To Convert Habitat Work to Taxidermy Bills Nov 02, 2021

This week we share with you a story from a client named Patrick Stewart. His family owns property in Kentucky that they have been hunting and managing for years. With mild success over the course of ownership they new they wanted more and should be experiencing it. So, they called us and we got to work developing a plan.

This podcast confirms the need for clear direction and plans for moving forward. Dabbling in habitat management only gets your back sore. Cranking up the dial of intensity gets results. That is what Patrick Stewart did during the of season. Now we get to hear how it paid off on his third sit of the archery season!

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The Dreaded One Lung Hit Oct 26, 2021

Bowhunting can be difficult, it's all about minimizing the risk of failure. However, even after a fatal shot is made, this does not mean you will recover the deer. Have you ever bumped a deer? What about lost blood along the trail? In this podcast, we discuss the ways we approach recovering an animal that ensures a calculated, slow, and, steady pace. This is the best way to avoid common but costly mistakes.

A good way to describe a safe approach to recovering a deer is to be cautiously pessimistic. When you are on the blood trail, you need to stay calm, move slow, and be on the hunt for any clue left behind. Many times, the trail is taken up too quickly. This alerts the deer and causes the trail of clues to diminish when if simply left alone, the deer would have expired in their first bed. Don't rush into the track job. Rewind the shot in your mind, ask youself the following questions and answer honestly, Was the deer broadside? Was the deer on edge? Was the shot wise? What was the reaction? Was it a pass-through? Was the angle too extreme? Where did the arrow exit? Did you hear the deer fall? The answers here will guide you to know when and how to take up the blood trail.

If you've ever lost a deer, this podcast requires your ear. Learn about our guidelines for tracking deer. This podcast is packed with lots of great tidbits on finding your wounded deer, give it a listen and share!

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Do I Buy In a Proven QDM Neighborhood or Start My Own? Oct 26, 2021

This is a loaded question! We do our best to unpack it this week during the podcast of where to buy hunting property. As with any big decision in life, there are certain pros and cons that should be weighed out. This decision to look for recreational property in a proven big buck-killing neighborhood or to buy in an unknown area is a highly debated one.

During this podcast, we discuss several different scenarios that a land buyer would find themselves in. But we also discuss how important it is to understand the neighborhood or surrounding area before you buy a property for hunting. A proven neighborhood means deer got big there once, but does it mean that the success is sustainable? Another question we address is, how many nonresident landowners make up the neighborhood, is there enough to do total herd management? In the case of starting your own co-op or neighborhood, it is important to start larger than smaller. The road may be longer, but it could have a few more speed bumps along the way as relationships and expectations develop within an area.

To find out what scenario is best, download and give this podcast a share!

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What Else Can You Learn from the B&C Distribution Map Oct 19, 2021

Big deer only grow where crops are grown! Wrong! That's been the commonly accepted answer after a quick evaluation of the Boone and Crocket entries map. That is a very surface-level takeaway from that map.

When you study that map and begin to think, I don't live in crop country, you may say to yourself, can I really expect to shoot big deer? The answer is yes, and the route to achieve that is not to bring the crops to your less productive soils. The answer is to not conform to the overall landscape management practices that your area is conducting. If you live in pasture country, don't manage pastures in the commonly accepted way. If you live in timber country, manage your timber differently. The B&C map shows us that the areas with fewer entries is not the way to grow big deer, it suggests different management approaches must be taken in those areas.

Don't settle for less when you can change your management style to meet the needs of deer to reach optimization for your hunting property.

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Woody Browse with Dr. Will Gulsby Oct 19, 2021

Sure we all know and accept that deer like acorns, tender leaves, and "food plots". But, that is an elementary understanding of what deer actually eat. When you dive deeper into the annual foraging needs, the metabolic process, and availability of resources, you take your understanding of deer and their requirements to a new level.

Everyone always wants to talk about the protein content of the latest and greatest feed they put down on the ground, but protein isn't all that deer seek. Other elements like calcium, phosphorus, boron, etc... all play a role in the deer's diet. They don't receive these various micronutrients by eating the same plant, food plot blend, or feed you put on the ground every day. When you begin to explore this deeper, you find that the foraging behavior and nutrient needs follow what is naturally produced on the landscape. So to meet these needs let's first understand on a deeper level, how nature works. This week we discuss the role of forbs, woody browse, browse, hard mast, soft mast, grasses, and fungi.

Do not miss this podcast! This is critical to understand if you want to grow healthier, bigger, or more deer. Give this podcast a listen and a share!

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Creating a Priority List for Habitat Techniques Part 2 Oct 12, 2021

After a successful podcast last week, we need to complete the comparison podcast to build upon the importance of having your priorities in order for your property. Last week we discussed a timber-dominated 320-acre property. This week, we discuss a 35-acre property that is roughly 50% open and 50% timber. Various habitat techniques will be used, but not as important as the order in which techniques get accomplished.

One of the biggest resources we can give to a property is not financial, it's time. Therefore, how you spend your time really matters. This resource is often thought of as secondary, but it's not. Quality habitat work can be accomplished when you have time to implement it. So listen up on how to properly tackle an intensive approach to maximize wildlife habitat on 35 acres.

Be sure to give this a listen and a share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Fall Habitat Ramblings and Reminders Oct 12, 2021

Have you harvested a buck yet? Are you waiting for the rut to hunt or the cooler days in the forecast? If so, this podcast was designed for you to learn how you can get ahead of everyone else and the upcoming growing season. What you do now, has the ability to set you apart!

Cool-season grasses when they are out of place can be the enemy of quality habitat. However, we are entering a great time to tackle that grass head-on. A timely herbicide application will terminate the grass ahead of winter. This give you plenty of time to have the area burned off and prepared ahead of the growing season in 2022. In addition, we share some great insight from a recent consulting trip comparing bottomland acres to upland sites. Don't miss out on the information to turn your property into a wildife paradise.

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Land & Legacy - Creating a Priority List for Habitat Techniques - Part 1 Oct 05, 2021

During this week's podcast we break down a property and the habitat techniques from top to bottom. There is 11 total, but the number isn't important, it is the order that is key. So during Part 1 of this podcast series, we will walk you through the property characteristics and then the order of importance based on the landowner's goals.

We often see landowners who have the right idea, but their emphasis, plan, and priorities are all wrong. Intentions are great, but without execution they mean nothing. So, during the podcast, we showcase how we would use specific habitat techniques on a property and line them up one through eleven in order of importance. This gives you an idea of how you could become more impactful on your own property.

We all want to make an impact and leave a legacy with your property. But it's important to evaluate if you are choosing to do the right techniques that will make the largest positive impact possible. Time to get our priorities in line and do things with a purpose.

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How Important is it to Harvest Antlerless Deer? Oct 05, 2021

During this podcast, Matt and Adam discuss a successful archery hunt Adam had recently over a plot of Heritage Blend. Although this hunt was a great success and we share the details, it is a reminder to be successful in overall property management, you cannot drop the ball on herd management.

We see it time and time again, great farms that do some of the best habitat work fall victims to focusing ONLY on the top 1% of the deer herd. If this is what you've done as well, then you are missing out on optimizing your deer herd and property. You cannot manage a herd well by only focusing on one or two older age-class bucks, it's not management, it's neglect. Those are strong words, but truthful ones. Bucks will get bigger anywhere in the country when does numbers are balanced.

To learn more about the crazy details of this doe hunt and to better understand antlerless deer numbers, give this podcast a listen.

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Pros and Cons of Pasture Ground on Your Recreational Property Sep 28, 2021

Throughout the years of doing podcasts, we have discussed pasture land and cattle on many of them. However, devoting an entire podcast to the pros and cons of pasture on a recreational property is necessary. So many landowners fall into this category and it is necessary to honestly evaluate how good the property can become when pasture land is understood.

Immediately when we discuss pastured acres, we have to determine if the pasture is a cool-season nonnative pasture or a native pasture. This makes a huge difference in the management and expectation during a transformation. In addition, cattle being on a recreational property was once considered a big no-no. However, with a deeper understanding of cattle and how they create a disturbance, there is extreme value in the proper management of cattle on recreational property, we will discuss this in great detail.

If you own property with pasture or are considering buying a property that has pasture land on it, you NEED download this podcast and see how to address the pasture on your property.

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An Early Season Mature Buck Hits the Ground Sep 28, 2021

The stars aligned and we got aggressive, it paid off when a mature buck strolled through during daylight hours. Chainsaw Chad put an arrow where it needed to be and the buck dropped within sight!

The story for this podcast starts back in the spring with a late frost. With zero white oak acorns for miles around this farm, we knew the alfalfa was going to light up with deer during the early season. When monitoring the field edges with cuddelink cameras, it was no surprise to find lots of deer using the fields, but some large bucks doing the same. Just a few days prior Adam was observing the field and saw one of the target bucks entering the field, it was game on from here.

We pushed in and hunted a small ridge we thought these bucks were staging up on before dumping into the large destination alfalfa field. Well, to hear more about how the successful early season hunt went down, you will have to tune into this podcast! We hope you enjoy this podcast!

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5 Reasons Why Your Bucks Are Nocturnal Sep 21, 2021

Frustrated by only getting buck movement during the night? Are you scratching your head wondering why does it seem like these deer only move during the cover of darkness? These are common questions that we hear from folks from all across the country. It plagues a lot of hunters and leaves them wondering what can I do about these situations.

On this podcast, we cover the Top 5 reasons why you are only seeing nighttime activity. Some of these reasons may shock you, while others seem logical. But what is more important than the reasons are the solutions. The solutions reverse the problems and solve many other complications that hunters face. The important rule of thumb is to know where the bedding takes place, but also how to properly setup a trail camera! User error can play a large role in this equation.

To document more daylight movement of your target bucks, start by listening to this podcast, then, pickup the chainsaw!

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Opening Week Archery Harvest and Hunt Recap Sep 21, 2021

Another archery season is among us here in Missouri. Despite the heat this week, we had several hunts that took place with success. To hear more about these hunts and how we plan to tackle these next cold spells, download this podcast!

With temperatures pushing 90 degrees last week, we still tried our hand at bow hunting to break the ice. The first sit of the year was an aggressive move that resulted in a doe harvest. But this would not have been possible without super clean access and winds during that hunt. Another observational set lead to putting eyes on a target buck. This intel was just what was need to dive into the tree later this week. A fifteen-degree temperature swing is forecast for this week, so more intense movement is expected. Hopefully, we can close the distance on one of these target bucks. Follow along each week for bowhunting recaps!

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Preparations for Habitat Management Season Sep 14, 2021

Over the course of several years our company had been blessed to grow, taking Adam and Matt across this country. However, they haven't been alone, Kyle and Frank have been alongside for years. During this podcast, you will hear how these two team members will be coming to a farm near you.

With years of experience managing natural resources publically, privately, and personally, Kyle and Frank are ready to hit the road. Their strong communication skills set them apart from many biologists in a similar field. Being able to work directly with landowners to create and paint a vision for their property is no easy task. We have to teach people how to create something that they have never seen. So providing them with the blueprints of their future recreational property is a skill that these guys have mastered. So they are ready to tackle any project that comes our way.

We want to thank you for following along and trusting Land & Legacy as a source for your natural resource management information. The future is bright and we can not wait to have one of our team members work with you!

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Hard Mast, Perennial Food Plots, or Soft Mast; Early Season Food Sources Sep 14, 2021

During this podcast, we discuss the varied food resources available to whitetail deer during the 2021 hunting season. When we start to look at patterns that deer are on now, we all know that they are subject to changing rapidly during this time of the year. Oftentimes early season hunting scenarios revolve around white oak acorns. However, this year we believe will be very different.

During the spring of 2021, a hard frost during the flowering stage of white oaks really set the stage for the fall crop in this region. In addition, the later portion of summer has turned dry, which is not uncommon, but even so, it makes for very delayed plantings of food plots. To say food is rather limited, can be an understatement as our season opens up for bowhunting this week.

So to combat these challenges, we are faced with evaluating food sources closely. Early bedding hunts are very difficult and risky, so hunting deer based on food availability is the alternative strategy. But, this takes close examination and it appears alfalfa and soft mast such as persimmon could be a strong player as the season opens up!

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Year of Sacrifice - Turning Slow Years into Reward Sep 07, 2021

Are there no bucks on your farm you're interested in hunting? Did your summer food plots fail due to too much browse pressure? Do you feel that the bucks aren't growing as big as you would have hoped for? These are common conversations we have during this time of the year, and when you're in this situation maybe it's time to reevaluate.

We're currently looking at having a year of sacrifice on Whistling Woodlands for several reasons. First, we finally have a logger who's able to log the entire farm. Second, We've noticed that the number of deer have increased over the last few years to a point of over browsing on some plots. Lastly, we've noticed very few bucks we're looking to harvest on the farm, likely do to th logging operation activity and the few number of deer because of only a few trail cameras out. With all these things happening we're looking to make this fall a year of sacrifice. Meaning, we're not focused on finding a hit list buck, but instead harvesting plenty of antlerless deer, and lowering the deer population.

With the logging going on, we know the habitat is going to get much better and the deer herd will follow the habitat increase. Like a lot of farms, the deer herd can get out of hand quickly so we're using this fall to make sure it doesn't happen anytime soon. ForLoveoftheLand

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Forecasting Hunting Success Based on Changes in Weather Sep 07, 2021

On this podcast we break down the ways we determine future success in a deer stand. Weather along with other variables can strongly influence deer movements on a daily basis. So this podcast we discuss how we analyze weather forecasts to determine which days provide the highest probability of success.

When looking at weather conditions, we tune into variables such as temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, wind direction/speed, cloud cover, and more! Having a reliable weather app to show you these variables is important. You not only want to look at the current conditions but how they change over time, so having all of this information in one weather app is important.

To learn more about predicting deer movement and hunting success download this podcast. Knowing when and where to hunt is critical. Trust a reliable source.

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You CAN Kill Deer on the Couch! Aug 31, 2021

We are big believers in going against the grain. The common rule of thinking is to kill deer you have to put your time in. Where that certainly has paid off for us all, it is not necessarily the full truth or secret to deer hunting. This week on the podcast, we reevaluate the ways to tagging your target buck and it involves more time on the couch opposed to in the field!

We've said it before, but there should be more importance placed on determining when not to hunt as opposed to when to hunt. A great movement day is easy to spot in a 7-day forecast. Although deer move daily, it's not always to the same degree. So, keep stands fresh and wait patiently for your time to strike. Having treestands for every wind option is nice, but having a few really quality stands is even better!

There are many stands we don't enter until it's time. Find the sets that work for certain winds and then stay out until those conditions present themselves. It's all about keeping hunting locations fresh until the deer you chase start utilizing the area heavily during daylight. It's not a sprint out of the gate for early season, but a marathon! Happy Hunting!

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Are You Your Property's Biggest Limiting Factor? Aug 31, 2021

Break out the steel-toed boots for this one. We dig deep this week to help you unlock the true potential of your property. We hear of excuses such as neighbors or unchangeable variables such as season regulations from every state/property we work. However, often times, those variables are not what is limiting the potential of the property. Sometimes it is the landowner themselves. This is not easy or comforting to say, however, it's what is true in some cases.

When asked what is the ceiling or potential for my property, we often have a difficult time answering that. What we create is the roadmap to discovering the potential, but quantifying or determining with certainty the ceiling of a property is unachievable, but at the same time likely unimaginable if you have vision.

Do you want to take your recreational property to the next level. Do you want to discover the potential or at least take the journey to see just how good it can get, because we sure do! Give this podcast a share with a landowner who needs to hear this message.

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Expect the Unexpected Aug 24, 2021

During this week's podcast, Kyle and Matt discuss how to be the most prepared land manager possible. We all know the struggles and difficulties that all landowners face. Some of these struggles are expected while others are totally unexpected. However, with proper planning and we can turn struggles into successes. Download to learn how to be the best landowner in your neighborhood.

Do you feel like you run around your farm on the weekends chasing projects and never getting anywhere? There are several ways to stay prepared and ready to tackle the unexpected. Things such as flooding, downed trees, invasive species, road closures, etc all can throw wrenches into the plans. Here are the best ways to keep on task and schedule so that the progress keeps moving forward on habitat management projects.

We hope you learn and enjoy the ways we develop contingency plans for farm managers!

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Timber Management in the Northeast and a Game Warden's Dream Aug 24, 2021

It's been a busy week in the northeast working with landowners and improving habitat! Adam and Matt are once again looking at acres and acres that are in desperate need of timber management. When it comes to the northern winters, woody browse is in high demand! Unfortunately the availability of woody browse is limited but that doesn't mean it can't be provided overnight! When it comes to timber management in the north, it's important to realize how problematic it is to use herbicide to kill trees that can provide so much nutrients in a much shorter period of time than relying on new woody saplings to grow.

Also did you know Missouri will be having their first ever Black Bear season in October? Listen in to hear how it could be one big setup for game wardens! With bears across southern Missouri it will be exciting to hear how this season plans out! And finally, we discuss some big news that has seemed to stay behind the scenes in the world of turkeys. Check it out!

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Propelling Your Land Ownership Goals to New Heights Aug 17, 2021

This week we have Ryan Manners a Land & Legacy client on the podcast. Ryan and his buddy Bucky work together to improve a farm located in southern Ohio. During this past March, Matt visited the farm and put together a site-specific plan for the property to steer their work in a new direction to maximize their impact on it.

Over the past six months over 120 acres of pasture have been removed to allow the early successional plant communities to grow into an old field management scenario. In less than a full growing season, the native growth is already 5-6 feet tall offering both cover and forage. This forage is also out-competing the soybean fields across the property. Do you have native forage that is this attractive? On this podcast, Ryan discusses the value of how a plan is a fast-track to success! You will not want to want to miss this opportunity to hear firsthand from a client.

We hope you enjoy the podcast and see the value of a landowner sharing their perspective.

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Using Cattle to Improve Habitat and Financial Gain Aug 17, 2021

On this week's podcast Adam sits down with his brother Chad to discuss their property Whistling Woodlands and their plan to utilize cattle not only as a managed tool to improve habitat but also as a tool to create financial gain to help pay for the farm! Over the course of the last few months they have been utilizing the cows in a rotational grazing pattern to help avoid overgrazing, but most importantly to create a diverse rangeland more suitable for wildlife.

Even in a short period of time, they're already seeing turkeys in pastures recently grazed and are excited to know the future looks bright! They discuss their herd of South Poll cattle and how not just any breed of cows can be thrown in this management system. Bred specifically for heat tolerance, low maintenance, and non selective foragers, these cattle will be a huge part in turning this property around and breaking the barriers that cattle and wildlife can't coexist. Tune in for ideas of possibly including cattle on your farm!

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Habitat Podcast Q & A Part Two Aug 10, 2021

During this podcast we review and answer the most recent listener questions. We’ve had to split these questions between two podcasts due to the number of great questions we had sent in. Within the podcast you will hear questions on how to address timber management, timber harvests, early successional habitat, food plots, and property layout. We want to thank everyone for their questions and support weekly of this habitat, land, and wildlife management podcast.

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Supreme Property Pizza in the Making Aug 10, 2021

It seems like each week, we try to describe what we do and how we work with landowners by using practical illustrations. During this weeks podcast we bring pizza into the discussion.

You maybe wondering how pizza even seems logical, but give this podcast a listen and see how you may fit into the scenario or illustration. One thing that we cannot teach is vision and this podcast is all about seeing into the future. How and what land can become is visionary, not what it is in the present.

Do you see the completed project before it’s done? Give this podcast a listen to learn how.

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Research-Based Hunting and Land Management Strategy with Dr. Will Gulsby Aug 03, 2021

Have you ever been skeptical of scientific research or wondered how applicable is this really? Well, this podcast will leave the doubt to itself at the moment you hit play. Be prepared to be blown away.

For years now, we have preached, lectured, and shared the power of combining both security and quality cover in the same areas, we simply call them bedding thickets. We know that they are commonly used and are generally the most influential vegetation types offered for deer hunting. This theory may have just become a scientific fact, you be the judge. You will hear how GPS collars confirm the drive and selection of these areas over commonly hunted areas or those with less than an ideal cover. In addition, you will hear how to manage your timber. Does thinning more aggressively really pay off for more forbs produced?

We are anxiously awaiting the feedback on this podcast! Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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How To Mark Timber Before a Logging Operation Aug 03, 2021

During this podcast, we have returning guest Chad Keith to discuss with us the important steps a landowner should go through before having the logging crew arrive.

Follow these easy steps of marking your timber to get the most out of your timber harvest for either wildlife benefits or timber enhancement benefits. We will discuss how to mark leave trees, a seed tree harvest, a clear-cut, and more! Don't miss this practical and helpful educational podcast on timber management.

Enjoy!

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Food Plot Planning and Strategy for Fall Plantings Jul 27, 2021

During this podcast, we cover the exciting discussions revolving around our fall food plot strategies. We have several new plots to discuss how they will be converted from fescue pastures into diverse fall food plots. In addition, you will hear how we intend to use food in relation to known bedding locations to entice certain predictable travel patterns to make hunting easier.

Fall food plots have all been discussed before, but these planting strategies and tools are all about a bigger future for these areas. Think of these fall plots as a stepping stone for more to come down the road out of these areas we discuss.

Be sure to follow along on social media in the coming months to see these food plots being put into play. Hopefully, many hunts will be shared in and around these locations.

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Cutting Trees to Improve the Forest and Wildlife Jul 27, 2021

Have you ever wondered how by cutting and removing trees that you actually improve the overall forest? Well, you're about to find out during this podcast. The Whistling Woodlands project just turned up the heat on a timber management project as reinforcements were called in. The loggers just arrived to completely change the future of this property.

During this podcast, you will hear how outside-of-the-box thinking with regards to a timber harvest got a crew excited to return and put the plan into action. This harvest will be complex, but also simple for the crew to execute as flagging, painting leave trees, sharing the vision for the harvest have all been completed. Clear-cutting with three different follow-up management strategies will occur as well as a seed tree cut, and selective thinning. Each of these practices is based on its proximity to other future plant communities and its aspect on different slopes.

If you've considered ever harvesting timber to improve the forest and the wildlife that utilizes it, this will give you the encouragement to pursue that further! Timber management requires action! Be sure to listen if you want to maximize your recreational property.

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Hunting Property Breakdown - Southern Style Jul 20, 2021

On this podcast, we take it down to the south where I am joined by host Frank Loncharich. We breakdown some of the key property features from a recent consultation. This podcast style allows you to follow along with an annotated map on our social media pages. Use this to guide yourself through the podcast.

On this property breakdown, you will hear us discuss property features such as open agricultural fields, north and south-facing slopes, enclosed deer pens, 20-year old clear-cuts, chicken barns, year-round creek, remanent savanna, and establishing travel corridors. To learn how and what recommendations we make follow along with this podcast. Dive into deer management in the south with us this week!

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Habitat Management Q & A Jul 20, 2021

We looked to our followers for this podcast! After a recent podcast post asking for viewer questions, we are here to answer! Our overall goal for the podcast each week is to help landowners, so addressing their direct questions is one of the best ways possible.

During this podcast, we will cover the following topics, timber management in uplands and bottomlands, what to do when you can't use prescribed fire, are oaks as important as we really think, early-season hunting tactics, how to convert ag fields into old fields, and much more!

Hope you enjoy this listener-influenced podcast! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Habitat Management in Northern Climates Jul 13, 2021

During this weeks podcast we cover our recent findings from states along more northern latitudes and compare to the Southern states. Guess what, we may shock you in what we find and say!

Land Management is different where you go, however, all through the techniques we recommend may be very similar the plant species change. Vegetation Composition isn’t talked about enough! It matters what plants are growing on a site and we discuss how there are commonly more useful plants per acre up north than in the south. So, essentially there is more to work with or less to terminate or remove, making the job easier!

To learn more about the management in the Northern states like Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Minnesota, New York, and Michigan, be sure to download and enjoy!

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30 Years To Nowhere Jul 13, 2021

Are you a frustrated recreational landowner? Have you been owning land for years without success or implementing the hunting industry standards without improvements? What do you have to show for in all your years, time, and money?

During this week, we take a look at the common pitfalls of land management. Where people place their time and energy is a good indicator of their ability to make serious land management changes.

Our goal is to bring awareness to these common mistakes to avoid the long term landownership with limited success. Don’t settle for what you have, been intentional with you management!

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Leaving a Legacy With Your Recreational Property Jul 06, 2021

On this podcast, we show you a visual change to a Land & Legacy property from 30,000 ft. Will Russell of central Pennsylvania took advantage of a property plan and it shows. You can't deny the change! Take a look for yourself. Will and his family have left a positive and legacy impact on this recreational property.

This farm now has diversity, whereas before it was a homogeneous, closed-canopy forest before with a few dotted food plots. However,, those days are gone! With the timber harvested as recommended, access was improved, as was the diversity of the plant communities, increased woody browse and cover. This property will never be the same!

Be sure to listen closely to this podcast, learn from Will and his relentless pursuit of quality habitat. Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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How to Mentally Prepare for A Property Transformation Jul 06, 2021

This can easily be the largest hurdle for most landowners to overcome. How to do prepare best for a complete 180-degree change of a hunting property? Some of the major habitat changes such as a timber harvest, adding cattle to recreational property, edge feathering, and. many other very visual techniques. You have to mentally prepare for this!

With our own ongoing projects beginning we walk you through firsthand the ways that we have begun to accept the imminent changes to our property. The best way we found to prepare, is to have an end goal in mind for that specific acre being impacted. What is the desired future condition? What is the best and fastest practice to get me? Once you have these two questions answered, the only thing left to do is pull the trigger. The confusion, apprehensiveness, and uneasy feelings many people go through come from uncertainty from the value that practice brings to the overall goal. Once you know the value and best way to get there, its easier to prepare for a property overhaul.

Share this with someone who needs to make some big long-term decisions with their farm! Enjoy.Learn.Share. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Soil Health Series Finale Jun 29, 2021

During this podcast, we wrap up the final thoughts from the Soil Health series. This podcast has been a long time coming that will take all the fluff and boil it down to what should wildlife managers really be concerned with.

Everyone wants the best results, we can all agree on that, however, you cant skip ahead when the foundation isn't even set yet. Why get fancy, when you can't even grow a simple productive plot yet. The basics need to be met first, then we can begin to take a bite off the larger piece of the pie. You need to realize although the soil is the building block of life, it has to be broken down into finding the balance. Although it can be complicated, build off the basics and shoot for the balance, the rest will take care of itself.

We hope you enjoy this podcast series wrap-up! Let us know your thoughts.

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Summer Isn't As Glorious For Wildlife As You Think Jun 29, 2021

Although summer may seem to be like you can breeze right through it thinking all is taken care of in the wildlife world. However, that would be short-sided. There are several factors that people always overlook during the summer timeframes.

Summer thermal cover for species such as bobwhite quail, wild turkey, and whitetail deer is key! It's often overlooked, but you can't forget about it, because there are essential elements to create quality summer thermal cover. Summer thermal cover is comprised of several elements, shade, wind speed, topography, and appropriate forb development.

In addition to this, environmental factors such as insects, ticks, and mites increase stress, so summer thermal cover doesn't just mean cooler temperatures, but parasite management as well! You will be shocked at how much these parasites cause stress on the individuals. Be sure to check it out!

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This Does Not Equal That Part 2 Jun 22, 2021

On this podcast, we get down into the weeds, literally. It's time to clearly define the difference between old fields and abandoned fields. At first glance, they may look similar, but the functionality of the two is far from equivalent.

So please follow along with our social media post that highlights the two photos we discuss throughout this podcast. You will be examining photos from Southern Iowa and Southwestern Ohio, one is productive and the other is a wildlife wasteland for now.

You are going to want to follow along closely with Part 2 to take your land and habitat management understanding to the next level.

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Progress on the New Farms Jun 22, 2021

During this podcast, you will hear from two new landowners who are working diligently to get some habitat work completed. Since closing on the properties, time has been the limiting factor, but that is changing and projects are getting completed.

This podcast discusses how a new fencing project will be one of the most impactful projects on the farm as cows will be managed for the first time, opposed to them roaming freely. In addition, trees are hitting the dirt. More sunlight will be spurring on new regeneration on both farms through a timber harvest as well as a giant bedding thicket project.

We also need your help to name these farms. We've got our ideas, but we need your thoughts!

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The Unknown Variables to Growing Bigger Bucks Jun 17, 2021

We've all read articles and seen videos about the ways to grow bigger antlers. Often times the conversation revolves around feeding programs, mineral stations, genetics, and the age of the animal. Well, all those may play a small role, what about stress? For many years we have been pondering the idea of how to quantitatively evaluate the stress placed on individual deer within a herd, obviously, we are still searching for that answer, but we have many cases studies where lower stress levels in the population and on the landscape have resulted in huge antler increases.

If you want to learn the forgotten or overlooked variables of growing larger deer, think about how widely spaced the resources are across the landscape. Are deer using more energy than they should access what they need? If so, that's unnecessary stress! In this podcast, we break down the dirty details of antler growth. To learn how to make the most of your landscape to shoot larger deer, consider giving this podcast a listen.

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Evaluating Hunting Property Module with NDA and OnX Maps Jun 17, 2021

This week we hosted a wonderful event in Northern Missouri with the National Deer Association and OnX Maps. This event we geared to the recreational landowner looking to improve their hunting property. We toured a client's farm who has worked diligently on improving his habitat. This opportunity provided all of the attendees the chance to review some killer habitat projects and learn from someone else's hard work and planning.

The other special opportunity attendees had was the chance to learn, use, and understanding the tool of digital mapping when it came to land management. OnX Maps was used by all attendees to learn how this tool makes land management planning and execution easier. This app is incredible for keeping track of burn units, TSI planning, bedding thicket, invasive species removal, road creation, and much more.

If you are a landowner who is stuck and unsure how to manage your property and reach your goals, give us a call! Become a member of the National Deer Association today.

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How Fast Can I Make the Habitat Better? Jun 08, 2021

Just how fast can I make habitat better? We do our best on this week's podcast to answer that question but be prepared, the answer may surprise you. We are not talking years, we are talking months for night and day transformations.

We discuss a 6-month journey of a glade restoration that has completely changed this portion of the farm. In December this unit was almost solid cedar, now it is full of native grasses and abundant forbs and pollinating species. Don't waste time on starting as huge benefits await you. Your land could be begging for improvements and changes, so do not fear the fact that a response could be years away.

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This Does Not Equal That - Part #1 Jun 08, 2021

Welcome to a new podcast format! We are going for a more visual learning experience, so please follow along closely with the podcast instructions to get the most out of each episode. Head over to our Facebook or Instagram account for photos that we reference during this podcast.

We closely examine two photos, calling out plant species, describing the structure or composition of the plants in each photo. In addition, we also answer the following questions, how does this benefit wildlife and how would we manage it? This podcast format will get your eye trained to observe the landscape the way we do. You have to have a critical eye to know how to improve habitat for whitetail deer, wild turkey, and bobwhite quail.

Let us know what you think! Thanks for joining us!

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Turkey Report w/ Mark Drury, Michael Hunsucker, and Shawn Luchtel. Jun 01, 2021

Where have all the turkeys gone?! It's a common question we've been hearing through much of the United States and it's a very complex answer. We decided to check in this week with some of the most popular hunters in Missouri who have hunted here for many years to see what trends they've witnessed and things they're doing to help improve turkey numbers.

Mark Drury of Drury Outdoors has been at the top of our list for successful turkey hunters for a long time. Going back to the days when Adam filmed for Drury Outdoors he's always respected the passion Mark has for the wild turkey. MArk continues to have a successful spring even with numbers down statewide, so we're getting to the bottom of why?

Next up Michael Hunsucker and Shawn Luchtel from Heartland Bowhunter have seen a drastic difference in turkey numbers from the early 2000s and it's quite concerning to them. We discuss what they believe might be leading into the numbers decline and how they're managing their farms to help both deer and turkeys.

Regardless, we all have ideas at how we can help the turkeys, from lowering tags offered, to ending the fall turkey season to year round trapping of predators, but getting the Department of Conservation to make the first move will be the trickiest move yet. #forloveoftheland

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Buck Beds Jun 01, 2021

On this week's podcast, we discuss some recent findings on our consultation trips. These times in the field are priceless with countless observations of how wildlife are utilizing certain habitat features. One of the more reoccurring things we see are isolated and routinely used beds, often referred to as "buck beds".

Buck Beds have gotten a lot of attention lately, however, one of the most missed features of this is that adequate cover is often limited. When quality cover is limited, we see routine beds, often used day in and day out. Although consistent bedding is good, having abundant, quality, secure, cover is even better.

The next time you find a buck bed, look at the structure, consider how to create more of that on the landscape as opposed to how can you hunt that location? Be a land steward! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Turkey Talk with Aaron Warbritton of THP May 25, 2021

During this podcast, we are joined by Aaron Warbrittion of The Hunting Public. As a fellow passionate turkey hunter Aarons' experiences bring a unique point of view as a huge public land turkey hunter.

We bring a new perspective to the turkey decline across the country. This is not just a Missouri problem as Aaron shares from his experience, he has witnessed this in Arkansas and many of the other Southeastern states. So the question becomes, what can a public and private landowner do collectively to address this problem? How can we come together to support habitat enhancement, fund research, and bring awareness to the issue.

Join us for a collective assessment on the future of the wild turkey. We aren't singing the doom and gloom song, but we bringing awareness to the general decline of the turkey as a natural resource.

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Summer Habitat To-Do List May 25, 2021

We are bridging the gap between spring and summer during the growing season, so this week's podcast is devoted to all things summer habitat to-do list. Spring annual food plots take a large time away from landowners, but what value do they bring? We discuss in full detail how you should be approaching food plots that are supplementally adding forage to your property.

In addition, we discuss the opportunity to treat non-native invasive species on your property. As we move into the timing when foliar applications of these species can be very effective. Do not forget to treat these plants as they will overtake the understory, edges of openings, and decrease total forage.

It's time to get to work for the wildlife. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Wild Turkey Decline - We Are the Problem May 18, 2021

During this podcast, we discuss the growing trends of wild turkey hunting, harvest information, decline, hunter participation, and the role everyone plays in this equation. In the last few weeks as the state of Missouri has disclosed its 2021 spring turkey hunting results, the general public has been very vocal about the results. The vocalization has stirred up the blame game for the decline in turkeys harvests.

We dive deep into science and harvest information to find the answers for improvement. We don't play the blame game, just stick to the facts. It seems there is outrage with the state's Department of Conservation around the decrease, however, how can they be held accountable for a turkey recruitment problem? We need to be clear on what the problem is, which is, turkeys are not being as successful in making more turkeys each season. Now, there are a ton of factors impacting this, but 97% of the state is privately owned. So, who is gonna make the largest impact, you and me! Not a state agency, this problem and solution fall on our shoulders. It's time we start taking responsibility for a turkey recruitment problem.

We hope you share this podcast with everyone looking to improve turkey numbers across the country. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Intense Habitat Management on a New Small Acreage Farm May 18, 2021

This is an exciting time in the life of Land & Legacy. Our families have been blessed to both pursue new land ownership opportunities. This new opportunity is not only going to be slightly different though. Matt and his wife purchased a 35-acre farm with a house and barn, this parcel is surrounded by cattle pasture, unmanaged timber, and some hunting pressure.

The goal with this property is to not only make it a homestead for our family but a small farm to put our habitat management skills to the test. We are going to overhaul the habitat and natural resources on the property to make this small acreage as beneficial to the wildlife as possible. There will be intensely managed old-fields, one large 3-acre bedding thicket, shrub plantings, invasive species removal, Forest Stand Improvements, and some quality food plots added with hunter accessibility in mind. This farm is going to showcase just how much quality habitat offered can influence deer movements!

We are excited to share this opportunity with you and showcase these techniques on a new parcel. Follow along with this project on social media for updates!

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Soil Health Podcast Series with Ray Archuleta May 11, 2021

Ray Archuleta has had a long career in the world of agronomy and promoting healthy soils. Starting out with the NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Services) to now serving as part of the Soil Health Academy that helps educate farmers and landowners on promoting healthy soils. This has been a long time coming to bring Ray into our Soil Health Series and we couldn't be more excited!

Soil Health has become a concern for many people in the food plot world but it's important we don't chase fads, product endorsements, and nonsensical practices. Let's face it, food plotters, like ourselves like to play farmer. Ray is a consultant dealing with farmers day in and day out, and is a farmer himself. The clear line between the ag world and recreational hunting land is farmers are relying on their practices to make an income, hunters aren't. With that being said we found it important to go straight to one of the most recognized agronomists in the world today to discuss soil health. We get his answer on many practices for soil health including, grazing, perennial versus annual, monoculture versus diversity, and why we should be focusing on all of our land not just areas of crops or food plots. It's a very interesting discussion so dive in with Ray "The Soil Guy" Archuleta. #Forloveoftheland

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Revealing the Truth Behind the Food Plot Seed Industry May 11, 2021

As we have discussed before there are some great marketing schemes out there floating around the hunting industry, one of these being food plot seed. We aim to expose this week while talking with the folks at Stratton Seed Company, just how different are these seeds from one brand to another?

It is very common to experience sales pitches regarding seed selection and superiority with frequently used food plot varieties, however, we expose the truth from the origins of this seed and lack of variety among most food plot seed types. Sure there are some varieties of soybeans, oats, or radishes that have some differences in genetics or growth rates, but when you see purple top turnip in a blend from various seed companies, it's still just purple top turnip and likely comes from the same grower. So, the question becomes if there isn't much difference in seed selection or origin, then why do costs vary so much? Well, we answer that question as well in this podcast.

If you want to hear transparency from a genuine food plot company, then tune in! You may be surprised at what you find out! #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Science Behind Turkey Loads with Nate Robinson May 04, 2021

On this week's podcast you will hear from our special guest Nate Robinson of Winchester Ammunition. Nate is a dear friend of Land & Legacy and has a deep understanding of the science behind quality ammunition. On top of this, he has a passion for turkey hunting, so he was the perfect guest to chat about the innovative Longbeard XR turkey load.

For nearly ten years, we have been shooting the Longbeard XR round with some great results. With Nate's understanding of the round, we discuss the in's and out's of the buffering, compression of the ignition, deformation of lead pellets, shot size, and downrange performance. In addition, we discuss the cost, which is extremely economical compared to the newest fade of TSS loads. $2.50 per round or $12.50 a round makes a big difference!

If you enjoy turkey hunting and turkey stories, this is a great podcast for you!

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Convictions From Lifelong Land Managers May 04, 2021

For years we have missed understood the meaning and definition of the term convicitions. We commonly think of the criminal activity surrounding the definition, however, it has meaning regarding how someone feels convinced about certain truthful information. So on this week, we share our convictions about land management.

Our goal is to share truthful information that will make the land and its resources better. So, we go deep into our understanding of truth behind the management of natural resources and God's Creation. These convictions are the check and balance sheet for us! When we examine practices or ideas we run them past our convictions or the truths/foundations of sound land management to make sure we are completing the best management practices that science supports.

If you want to learn the truths or our convictions about how the way land and wildlife should be managed, give this a listen! #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Forgotten Element of Cover Apr 27, 2021

During this podcast, Matt and Kyle discuss some of the key elements of creating quality cover. The most forgotten element is structure!

Often times you hear how structure is relate to fish cover or rabbit cover, but structure is just as important for quail, turkeys and deer! Consistency of quality bedding is often a goal for most hunters and without understanding how the structure of that cover is oriented will often leave you disappointed with the lack of results.

We hope you enjoy this podcast and get a finer detailed understanding of what creates cover and how structure is woven into this element of land management.

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Managing Land with Limited Resources - Time and Money Apr 20, 2021

On this podcast we approach the subject of limited resources, for some it may be time for others it may be funding to invest in a property. No matter which object you face, both can prove to limit our impact on managing a farm. This limited resource and impact can be compounded with a lack of direction or plan that has not been set in place.

Without a management plan, you are chasing your tail. We pose the question that will surely get you thinking, Would you rather have the adjoining 40-acre parcel or know exactly what to do with your existing 200 acres? We know what the power of knowledge and hard work can produce and that is quality habitat. Having extra land doesn't mean a great impact, it can mean more stress and likely stretch your already limited resources even thinner. Hard work and knowledge are the secret ingredients to your property! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Wild Turkey Podcast Series - East Coast Success Apr 20, 2021

On this installment of the Wild Turkey Podcast Series we devote our time to stories of success! During a recent consultation trip to Virginia and Pennsylvania, Matt was able to stay with family and take advantage of the opening week of Virginia's turkey season.

On this podcast, you will hear from three different hunt breakdowns where longbeards were harvested. Each hunt and situation was approached differently based on the gobbler's location, time of the morning, and if we thought hens were present. We were blessed with responsive gobblers that came to our calls!

Be sure to listen to the finer details of this podcast. If you want to be more successful when tagging turkeys, you have to be a student of the details and turkey behavior!

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Wild Turkey Podcast Series - Gear Dump Apr 13, 2021

We extend the Wild Turkey Podcast series this week to complete a pre-hunt “What’s in your turkey vest Podcast? This podcast reviews the diaphragm calls, friction type calls, locator calls, and the gear we chose to carry.

We tend to be prepared, but still pack light. We want to make sure that any scenario we face that we have the call or sound we can produce in our vest. No matter if we are calling to birds off the roost or trying to locate birds during a late morning, we have the sounds we need.

For more information on what we carry, enjoy this podcast! Next week, we should have some turkey hunting content coming your way!

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Getting The Most Wildlife Benefit from a Pine Plantation Apr 13, 2021

Although this podcast is focused from the SouthEast United States, we expound on the necessity of woody structure in your habitat for encourage daylight deer activity and security. Be sure to follow along as discuss in full detail the pit falls of managing a long term monoculture crop while trying to improve wildlife habitat.

After several trips this spring to state such as North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Georgia, we have to discuss ways to improve these vast areas of poor wildlife cover. We understand and address the need to still produce an income from your pines, while trying to address the lack of food or cover in these units.

Be sure to follow along, you may be surprised some of the recommendations that you hear this week.

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Wild Turkey Podcast Series - Strut Zone Management Apr 06, 2021

On this week's podcast, we bring on turkey hunting enthusiast and Land & Legacy Consultant Kyle Hedges to discuss a fun hunting and habitat management strategy for strutting gobblers. Throughout this podcast, you will hear of many different ways to create strut zones for wild turkeys. Yes, these are specifically managed areas in certain locations that provide both attraction and advantages to strutting toms.

These areas can be created in various habitat types including timbered ridges, food plots, pastures, hayfields, old fields, and CRP. We want to create areas that gobblers routinely come to after flying down to display their dominance, but also vocalize it! So terrain features and habitat comes into play when creating these areas. If done, properly you may just be creating nesting or brood-rearing cover at the same time as spring rolls into summer. So these are great tips to get the most out of turkey season.

We hope you share with a buddy who is looking to keep have a successful roost hunt! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Soil Health Podcast Series with Caleb Traugh Apr 06, 2021

On this podcast, we have a cross-over guest, both food plotter, farmer, and agricultural consultant Caleb Traugh from Southwest Georgia. This week we discuss how to understand soil basics and prioritize soil health on your recreational farm. There are so many aspects to the broad term soil health, but it is important to understand how it plays into your role and goals for landownership.

Caleb Traugh has managed thousands of acres of recreational land with ample food plots as well as assists agricultural producers across the south to get the most out of their soil for their goals. In this podcast, you will hear testimonials, advice on planting equipment as well as roller crimpers.

It is important to listen with an open mind as we are relating Soil Health back to recreational landowners and food plotters. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Soil Health Series with Ag Consultant Mitt Wardlaw Mar 30, 2021

What do you do when you receive the results from your recent soil test? It's a question we certainly get all the time and we know it's a common problem for land managers. We sit down this week to discuss soil sampling, soil health fads, and best management practices to improve your soil fertility, grow healthier food plots, and avoid time consuming mistakes. Mitt is an owner of Southern Ag Consulting and assists crop farmers across the south to improve yields and limit costs. Their company has over 90 years of experience assisting landowners with crops, soil fertility, weed control, and many other practices to help improve crop yield.

We walk through the steps of what to do once you receive the results from your soil tests. Mitt covers the steps he takes to make the quickest improvements on soil fertility and how in just one growing season he can change the soil's potential! We also discuss the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients and how you should understand them before working to improve them! Finally we discuss one of the biggest principles in soil health, liebig's law of the minimum.

It's always important to ask tough questions about our practices, thoughts, and future plans and with soil health it's no different. If we improved the soil organic matter by 2% over ten years what would we notice happening? Would we notice any changes or better yet would we notice any improved health of our deer? These are tough questions we must answer before we waste time doing things that don't have great returns. #Forloveoftheland

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Wild Turkey Podcast Series Habitat Management Implications Mar 30, 2021

After two weeks of deep conversations with two of the top wild turkey researchers we cover the importance of turning research information into well-managed habitat. Often times we find some folks have difficulty translating the podcast information directly into habitat plans. This is where the podcast will focus on ways that leading research can assist landowners with boots on the ground habitat enhancement.

We talk about dormant season discing, timber management, prescribed fire, brood plots, invasive species removal, and overall neighborhood collaboration to strongly influence turkey populations. If you want more turkeys on your property give this podcast a listen and a share, then pick up your chainsaw and drip torch and get to work! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Transforming Habitat Is Not Accidental, It's Intentional Mar 23, 2021

During this podcast we discuss how to yield actual results from your work on the landscape. After a day of prescribed fire, we have many stories to tell of our insights from the field. Often times we see folks taking the right steps but in wrong orders. This can be potentially harmful and not helpful.

Being able to develop a plan that will reach clear objectives is first and foremost. Next comes implementing those steps as designed. Taking shortcuts or getting steps out of order often takes habitat improvements into a stalemate. We want more for you, the land, and the wildlife. There is more to experience than staus quo habitat manipulation. It's time to be intentional with our goals and the steps we take to achieve them.

If you want to create a successful business, you need a plan, and you need to take certain intentional steps at the perfect time to achieve success, habitat management is very similar to his! We hope you learn how to attack your property properly during this podcast! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Wild Turkey Podcast Series with Dr. Bret Collier Mar 23, 2021

During this podcast, Frank sits down with Dr. Bret Collier of LSU to discuss the latest information in wild turkey research. These two are great conversation starters as both are passionate about hunting, management, and the research of the wild turkey.

During this podcast, Frank and Bret discuss how to turkeys move across the landscape, and what type of movements landowners can expect to witness. In addition, they discuss how and why turkeys use different habitat types. This has serious implications for the conservation-minded landowner. Do you want to grow turkey numbers in your area? Do you want to hear more gobblers in the spring or see more poults during the summer? Be sure to listen to this podcast closely and pick up on the latest research data on the wild turkey.

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Turkey Podcast Series with Dr. Mike Chamberlin Mar 16, 2021

As we promised, we were going to bring on the expert turkey biologists during our Turkey Management Podcast Series. This guest has been researching and following turkeys for over 25 years professionally. Please welcome, Dr. Mike Chamberlin to the podcast this week where he brings his professional research expertise to the topic of habitat management specifically for wild turkeys.

With all of the knowledge and data points collected on this fascinating wild bird, we find that Dr. Chamberin's biggest suggestions revolving around thinning the timber, prescribed fire, discing, and old field management, and removal of non-native invasive species. This should be reassuring to our listeners who are implementing this same exact practice. These sound techniques yield results, it's not opinion, but fact. There must be something to these practices if a top research biologist who knows wild turkeys inside and out are promoting the exact same practices that we promote weekly. Follow along as you will find out more about wild turkey behavior and movements across the landscape than ever before.

If you want to hear one of the greatest minds in understanding turkey management, then follow along with this podcast. Share it with a buddy who is struggling to manage turkeys consistently on their property.

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Standard Operating Procedure Mar 16, 2021

During this week's podcast, we catch up and discuss some of our recent finds during our consulting trip. These finds all come back to a central theme of what should be the "Standard Operating Procedure" for each individual property. This Standard Operating Procedure revolves around how to make the best impact in the most efficient way possible.

We discuss during the podcast two different approaches we recommended on recent consulting trips on how to attack non-native invasive species such as bush honeysuckle, autumn olive, and multi-flora rose. In addition, we discuss a common theme of that many landowners take by not improving the property for fear that it help the neighbors, we break down this philosophy's flaws and how it could be contributing to your lack of success. Every acre needs attention!

We hope you enjoy this podcast and learn that there is a "Standard Operating Procedure" for your property, do you know it? Are you aware of how to follow it?

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Wild Turkey Series - Life History Traits of the Wild Turkey Mar 09, 2021

On this second installment of the Wild Turkey Podcast Series. This week Matt and Frank review the life history traits of the Wild Turkey from nesting, brood rearing, breeding behavior, and diets. These discussions will provide you with a detailed baseline of the wild turkey, this podcast is a foundational podcast for the weeks to come.

If you have experienced the thrills of a spring morning and gobbling toms this podcast will provide you with a more in-depth look at the details behind the behavior and ways those memories can be experienced. During the late 90's and early 20's hunters generally saw a strong upward trend in turkey populations, but as of late turkey numbers have decreased which has lead to more research on this amazing bird. We discuss in detail the current trends and ways biologists, land managers, hunters, and conservationists can rally together to share the education of the wild turkey and habitat specifics to improve the land to hold and recruit more turkeys each year.

We hope you enjoy this podcast devoted to understanding the wild turkey! #ForLoveoftheLand

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190" Buck In Timber Country: The Story of Donuts Mar 09, 2021

This is the story of a giant buck on our home dirt and how he went from a mediocre 3.5 year old buck to a world class stud. Over the course of time many hunters have encounters of pictures on trail cameras of a large buck that haunts their dreams and is talked about for seasons to come. This is a podcast devoted to a buck we called "Donuts," and the story about his life and what we can all learn from his pattern, growth, and habitat management around his home range.

Keep in mind this buck lived on a property that Chad and Adam have managed for years, and just two years before Donuts was 3.5 years old there wasn't a single buck living on the farm over 4.5 years old on a total of 900 acres. This isn't known to be a big buck area, this is a vast landscape of poor habitat and low quality deer hunting. The Keith brothers have set out to try and improve the habitat and see just what happens to the deer herd, so far it seems to be working! After a large timber harvest and prescribed fire the place is beginning to turn around, but with less the 25% of the overall work being done on the farm it's safe to say we're only at the beginning.

Listen up to hear the story of a buck that should encourage us all to look past the food plots and begin to manage the entire landscape. #ForloveoftheLand

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Wild Turkey Series - Habitat and Hunting Part 1 Mar 02, 2021

We're kicking off another podcast series this week that will carry us into April and it's all devoted to turkeys! Whether it's the latest scientific research about improving turkey numbers to the calls we use to fill more tags this will be a fun series for us!

As many of our listeners are land managers we'll lay the groundwork out to help each landowner know what steps and practices they need to take to benefit the turkeys immediately as well as years to come!

This will be a series full of guests and common hear say that couldn't be further from the truth. Let's be honest, turkeys are struggling through much of the United States and the common opinions we hear aren't going to fix it! We'll never trap our way to more turkeys, but we can do the habitat work to help them come back!

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Tips and Tricks For Deer Hunting Mar 02, 2021

On this podcast we sit down once again with Kasey Morgan of Drury Outdoors. Kasey has a unique work resume that covers outfitting Ohio to managing properties in Iowa from frequent podcast guest Greg Glesinger. If you listened to the podcasts this fall with Greg you know what's happening on their farms is almost unmatched across the country with Three, 200" is greater bucks being harvested in the last four years.

We cover a wide range of topics, from how to clear a field without educating all the deer, what buck beds mean to them, how they utilize access routes and more. When it comes to hunting layout and utilizing habitat improvement and hunting strategy together it's hard to find a better duo than Kasey and Greg.

Don't miss this podcast! #ForLofeoftheLand

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Prescribed Fire Series - Fire Ignition Techniques Feb 23, 2021

On the final podcast of the prescribed fire podcast series, Frank and Kyle host as they share their extensive knowledge regarding the usage of prescribed fire. Frank and Kyle go in-depth about the different ways that you can ignite a fire. The way fire moves across a landscape from residual heat, flame height, the direction of the wind all help to determine the plant response.

There are several key ways to ignite a fire. In this podcast we cover the following in-depth: Backing Fire, heading fire, ringing fire, stripping fire, and flanking fire. These different firing techniques will be used based on the changes in the terrain as well as the desired effect of the fire. A backing fire cannot produce what a head fire can, just the same as a flanking fire is different from a stripping fire.

If you ever wonder how you should be using prescribed fire to alter the plant communities growing on your property, this is the podcast for you. Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Are Your Deer Going To Starve This Winter? Feb 23, 2021

With the recent extremely low temperatures that gripped much of the country, it's only fitting that we discuss the ways you should be reading the health of the local whitetail herd. Without proper habitat in place, you may notice deer drastically changing patterns and adapting to these conditions.

We dive deep into the ways you as a land manager should be working with the farm to prepare for harsh conditions. If you are finding deer consuming low preference food resource such as ornamental landscaping you should be alarmed. If you can't find deer using your property during these times, you should also be alarmed. These are some of the few signs that you should be aware of. Habitat management is intentional, not accidental! We need to be placing certain features on each property to offer the necessary habitat.

To learn more about how you can prepare your property to maximize wildlife usage, tune in to this Land & Legacy Podcast.

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Prescribed Fire Series - Using Fire to Alter Plant Communities Feb 16, 2021

On this week of the Prescribed Fire podcast series, we get down to the nitty-gritty of prescribed fire. Often times prescribed fire is thought of a as a broad brushstroke of improvement for a property. This can be true for some, but oftentimes this is when we see fire being misused.

When a landowner begins to implement fire, they should have a clear goal for what the intended result is of a fire. Ideally, what is the response, if a landowner can not answer this, then we have issues! Fire, based on its fire return interval, the season of burning, intensity, and amount of sunlight on the unit all combine to determine what the plant response will be. During the podcast, we share with you the different ways scenarios and potential fire return intervals that we would use and recommend to get a certain desired result.

We hope you learn and enjoy this podcast. Share with a landowner who is looking to improve their land for wildlife.

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Increasing Turkey and Bobwhites in the Southeast Feb 16, 2021

On this week's podcast Frank and Matt discuss a new farm setup in Mississippi. This farm has lofty goals that will take a precise plan to accomplish. During this podcast, we cover how we plan to attack it.

This property wants to produce a habitat that will not only sustain but improve bobwhite quail numbers. This habitat is primarily covered in planted pines of varying ages from 3-year old clear-cut, 13-year-old unthinned pines up to 20-year-old thinned pines. These varying stages and habitat types create a complex arrangement of plans to create the desired habitat.

First and foremost, we will be thinning the canopy and then adding prescribed fire across much of the property. Although this may seem simple, it is a very detailed puzzle that when put together will have flocks of wild turkeys and coveys of quail on each unit of the farm. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Prescribed Fire Series - How To Burn in the Timber Feb 09, 2021

During this week's podcast, we continue with our Prescribed Fire Series. Last week we covered all of the tools you will need to get started burning, so now that you are fully equipped, it's time to cover how to implement a fire. This week, we cover how to burn within the timber.

Some new research out of Auburn just found that a reduction of the canopy by 30% and a follow-up fire will result in a 500% increase in deer food per acre. So, now that we have your attention, it's important to burn your timber, but it should be done properly. This week we discuss the ideal conditions for burning in the timber as well as different firing techniques and how to prepare burn lines. If you've dreamed of using prescribed fire to improve your habitat, but haven't actually implemented it, then this podcast is for you!

We will take you from start to finish on how to use prescribed fire on your property. Let us know what you learned this week from this podcast! #ForLoveoftheLand

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We Bought a Farm! Expanding the Family Farm Feb 09, 2021

Dreaming of buying ground is a very popular dream for almost anyone who enjoys hunting, but if you're like Adam and his brother Chad the dream consists almost entirely of buying land that borders the family farm. In 1952 their Grandpa purchased what is now the family farm, but after last week we've managed to expand the size and are looking forward to the future restoration!

Using a creative approach they were able to utilize a farm loan set up by the Farm Service Agency to establish a plan to run the farm where it almost solely pays for itself. By incorporating cattle, timber management, and replicating nature this farm will be unlike most farms you'll see. From dry arid glades to wet beaver swamps, they have plans to push back the normal and create a template for future landowners to build off of and restore landscapes in your next of the woods.

Tune in this week to hear all the plans they have to bring back the Bobwhite quail, grow MORE 190" bucks, and work the ground with a business mindset to avoid those costly mistakes. You don't want to miss this one! #Forloveoftheland

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Prescribed Fire Series - How To Get Started Burning Feb 02, 2021

Welcome to a new podcast series. Over the next few weeks, we will be discussing all things prescribed fire. This week, we cover the tools needed to get started and discuss why you need to be burning if you want results.

Prescribed fire is an age-old tool that is both natural and does not discriminate. We go deep into why this tool should be used to manage landscapes for improved health, not for its detriment. Prescribed fire is a necessary tool that each and every landowner needs to be an advocate for. We ask that you learn why first, then follow us for the next few weeks to learn how you implement this. By the end of the series, you will be itching to drop a match responsibly.

Please follow along and learn how and why you should be using prescribed fire on your property that you manage for wildlife.

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Land & Legacy Workshop Announcement Feb 02, 2021

We are rolling out a new learning opportunity for 2021. Welcome to the Land & Legacy Workshop series, coming to a region near you! For 2021 we are offering two workshops, one located in Michigan and the other located in Alabama.

We have been waiting to release this opportunity for several years now, but it is finally here, the opportunity for you as a listener to come and see first hand the work we have discussed for years on the podcast. We will be hosting in-person demonstrations, presentations, and seminars all weekend long regarding habitat management. This is a perfect gift for Father's Day or for the young eager up and coming wildlife biologist.

If you are interested, please register for this event at www.shoplandandlegacy.tv. We will see you there! #ForLoveoftheLand

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So, You Want to Become a Wildlife Manager? Jan 26, 2021

This podcast is devoted to those wanting to work in the field of wildlife or land management. We often get emails, messages, or phone calls from folks who are looking to learn how they can have a similar job in the wildlife field. Over the course of several years, we have seen many new land management companies get started and then fade away for various reasons. This podcast is a story of Land & Legacy, our humble beginnings, journey, and advice for those looking to prosper in this same field.

Land & Legacy literally started on a prayer and hasn't stopped since. When pursuing a career in a field of passion, we found success not because we loved what we did, but because we feel called to do so. We are convicted to share this passion and knowledge that we have about Creation and the natural world with others. We have found success based on following through and listening to the direction God called us both.

We encourage anyone in any field of study to pray through their career choice and pursue what you are called to do. Follow along on this podcast as we share personal stories of sacrifice to get to this point today. #ForLoveoftheLand

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10 Reasons Why Edge-Feathering is Necessary Jan 26, 2021

Welcome back to a new Land & Legacy podcast! We are discussing and wrapping up the month of January by reviewing one of the more trendy habitat techniques out there right now, edge-feathering! This technique is in its simplest form, a recreation of nature properly-functioning when fire was apart of the landscape.

During this podcast, we talk very clearly as to why you should be actively using the technique around the edges of your food plots or crop fields. We spell out 10 very important reasons that can greatly impact the wildlife, hunting, and habitat. Most people only think it's a way to steer deer into bow range, but this habitat technique goes well beyond that! We can create woody browse, visual barriers, improve food plot success, improve hard mast production, and much more!

We hope you enjoy this podcast and learn why edge feathering should be in your arsenal of tools to use on your farm. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Understanding Vegetation Podcast Series - Trees Jan 19, 2021

On today's podcast we wrap up the last part of the Understanding Vegetation Podcast Series. We dive super deep into all things Trees. Often times, trees are certainly overvalued by many hunters. They consider them to be cover or perhaps all mast producers when in reality, many trees are dying or growing in severely stifling conditions.

We break down the differences between hard mast and soft mast trees. From there we discuss how God designed the Red Oak trees to be on a two-year cycle production as opposed to white oaks being on a one-year production cycle. From here, we then discuss observing tree health. This is an easily learned skill, but one that makes managing the timber for wildlife a necessity. Let's just say, we spend a lot of time on how to create a landscape that thins the bad trees and promotes a robust understory of plant vegetation.

You will want to listen closely to this podcast if you have any amount of timber on your property. It's time to start actively managing your timber! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Late Season Archery Bow Kill from A Saddle Jan 19, 2021

Chainsaw Chad went down to the wire with a late-season bow kill by deploying some unique strategy. This buck was on the radar all season, but once the weather got right and the proper plan was put together, the last two hunts of the year provided him with two shot opportunities on the 158" whitetail.

During this podcast, Adam and Chainsaw Chad discuss in detail the approach to put this Missouri buck down. Most late season hunts are typically over large destination food sources, however, this hunt went do very close to bedding. We break down why this was the only strategy that could be used to intercept this buck during daylight, despite the late season drive to food most deer have.

Don't miss this archery hunt breakdown from a saddle! You will enjoy learning how to repeat this success yourself! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Stihl Before Steel Jan 12, 2021

As many hunting seasons are coming to a close around the country, landowners have the options of what they will focus on next. Often times, we see folks choosing "steel" traps over the "Stihl" chainsaw for the purpose of improving the land for game species - WRONG MOVE! The research is clear and the long term benefits of working diligently on the habitat far outweigh the temporary void created by removing a predator.

If we want to make a difference for game species, we have to be honest with our evaluations of the habitat and how we utilize our time in the field. Grab the chainsaws and get to work! Time to impact acres for years to come! Be sure to share this podcast with someone who needs to hear this deliberate message! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Understanding Vegetation Podcast Series - Shrubs Jan 12, 2021

After following up the podcast form last week, where we discussed in full detail the value of forbs on the landscape, we climbed the vegetation ladder and covered shrubs this week. Shrubs are the multi-tool or swiss army knife of vegetation devoted to wildlife value.

During this podcast, we discuss upland shrubs, wetland variety, and also differentiate soft versus hard mast shrub producers. The role of these shrubs often times produce year-round food options as well as dynamite cover opportunities. If you want to improve your property for wildlife, you have to know and promote native shrubs! Learn all about them this week! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Understanding Vegetation Podcast Series - Forbs Jan 05, 2021

On this week's installment of the Understanding Vegetation Podcast series we discuss Forbs. Yes, that is right, we nerd out about broadleaf plants for over an hour this week. To understand wildlife, you have to understand the significance of forbs. These are the forgotten plants of wildlife management.

We discuss in full detail the role that forbs plan and how they work from annuals to perennials. We even discuss protein content and what Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) means when evaluating the cellulose/lignin material of vegetation. In addition to food value, we spend a lot of time discussing the value that forbs bring to cover as well. They grow during key times of the year for important life-history events such as nesting, fawning, brood rearing, lactation, antler development, and more!

Tune in next week as we discuss the next vegetation class! Hope you enjoyed this week's podcast all about forbs!

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Finding the Quail - Hunting Public Land Jan 05, 2021

If you're in search of quail on public land you know that sometimes they can be very hard to find! During this podcast Kyle and Frank discuss tips and tricks to find upland birds on heavily pressured public land. It doesn't stop there though, these strategies can help you be successful even on private land.

Have you ever considered quail feeding patterns in your hunting strategies and defining whether you're hunting woody cover or cut grain? Determining the attraction and or the habitat features will create more successful hunts in your future. Are you willing to put the work in and walk to that back corner of a walk in hunting area to check a shrub row for quail? These are areas often overlooked due to their size and distance from the road but they could be the answer to your question, "where are the quail at?"

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Building a Hunting Property off Restricted Access Dec 29, 2020

On the second podcast this week, we review a recent consultation from eastern Missouri along the river breaks of the Mississippi River. This 100-acre parcel like many along the river breaks had some severe topographical features. The steep terrain and limited access become the foundation of how the property will be managed.

As we commonly discuss, access to a property is fundamental aspect of the property. It is imperative to have good access to manage the land and hunt appropriately. This property had one way in, through the Northeast corner. A small narrow ridge was the main travel corridor for access throughout the entire property. With up to four hunters hunting at once, we describe how this property will not only be managed but now accessed differently for deer and wild turkey hunting. Some of the suggestions may surprise you! To learn more about these changes and transformation, be sure to listen and follow along with this podcast! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Understanding Vegetation Podcast Series - Grasses Dec 29, 2020

Welcome back to the Vegetation Podcast Series with Land & Legacy. This podcast series will give you the leg up on all other land managers by learning the basics of each type of vegetation a true wildlife manager would need to know. In the first week of the series, we are going to be working through grasses. It is not uncommon for various types of grasses such as warm-season grasses to be glorified by wildlife managers across the country. Why is that? Are they right? Or will you find out that is just fluff?

To start the podcast, we break down the various categories grasses can be placed based upon their specific features, such as cool-season versus warm season, native versus non-native, and bunchgrass versus sod-forming grass. This gives information gives the ability to make the proper decisions moving forward on how to properly manage the grasses growing across the property. In addition, we highlight the food and cover value of grasses for animal species such as whitetail deer, turkey, and bobwhite quail.

If you want to learn more about how to properly manage land for wildlife game species, it starts with having a complex knowledge of what is growing on the land. We hope you will continue to follow along with the podcast series, next week, is all about forbs. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Understanding Vegetation Types 101 Dec 22, 2020

For years now we have done podcasts on various subjects touching every category included in land management practices. But we continue to learn how people best learn from podcasts and the topics of land management. So as we enter into the land management season for most hunters, we thought it would be best to start a new podcast series explaining from start to finish the different vegetation types you should be managing, starting with grasses, forbs, shrubs, trees, and invasive species. This week is the introduction to the new series!

We will take a category and tackle it each week, so for instance, the next week, we will talk all about grasses! We will break down the roles that grasses should play in wildlife management and what roles they do not. In addition, we will discuss how to best manage them and what composition they should ideally be found in. By the end of the podcast, you will know what grasses do and what their significance is, as well as some grass identification tips!

Be sure to follow along each week to get a firm understanding of the different vegetation types that each land manager should be able to easily identify and manage properly. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Hunting Improvement Techniques Vs. Habitat Management Practices Dec 22, 2020

With everyone sharpening chainsaws and preparing to get some work completed, we wanted to take a moment to discuss what is impactful and what is not. There are so many time wasting techniques out there that seem to grab the attention and distract away from sound habitat management practices.

The goal while working on a property is to improve the deer herd and its top-end quality, so to do that, we can't waste time on techniques such as, mock scrapes, water holes, monoculture grass plantings, and kill plots. These practices may just help you kill what deer are already on the property. However, practices such as old field management, timber stand improvement, prescribed burning, edge feathering, and destination food plots actually provide the local deer with more resources to improve their fitness. These practices are impactful and should be implemented during this habitat season.

Please make a difference this winter! Run the chainsaw just as much as you run trail cameras.

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Hit the Reset Button on Your Property Goals Dec 16, 2020

Get ready for a rocking podcast to set the tone for the coming New Year. Have you struggled with seeing results or accomplishing tasks on your property? Do you constantly have analysis paralysis because of information overload? We've found the reason why and share it here on this week's podcast.

After polling podcast listeners, we determined the most people are not able to create achievable property goals. The foundation of property improvement and success is missed because the initial goals for a farm are not obtainable, measurable, or way too vague to ever know where you stand. This podcast will likely make you take a step back and re-evaluate your goals. This is the perfect time as the New Year is just a few weeks away to prepare for you getting started during land management season on the right track.

This to this podcast with open ears to achieve more than you ever have on your farm. Reach your goals by re-evaluating and creating well-defined goals that are measurable. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Christmas List for the Land Manager 2020 Dec 15, 2020

Merry Christmas from the Land & Legacy team. We want to provide you with a long list of Christmas gift ideas for the land manager. So, share this with loved-ones as the perfect gift ideas for you. These ideas range in value from just a few dollars to a few thousand. However, they have all saved us time, energy, or allowed us to become more efficent in the field.

The list of the perfect land manager Christmas ideas includes some of the following, Bluetooth headphones, chainsaw hip pouch, chainsaw gear bag, 2" rigid water hose, Danner boots, Ozonics, Stihl MS261-CM, and much more. These gift ideas will not bring disappointment to anyone on Christmas morning.

We hope you enjoy this holiday-themed podcast. We wish you the Merriest Christmas and hope each of you seeks the true gift of salvation during this season. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Knock The Dust Off the Chainsaws Dec 08, 2020

Welcome back to another Land & Legacy podcast! We are getting back into the swing of things with the habitat talks. The majority of rut hunting is over and the questions are rolling in regarding habitat improvement projects. So we take time this week to cover some viewer questions and build upon last week's podcast when we discussed the difference between bedding thickets and sanctuaries.

Security cover on a farm is a non-negotiable necessity. However, security or the lack of intrusion is NOT often limited in most neighborhoods. There are always tucked away places on farms in your neck of the woods that will experience very little human intrusion. However, what is lacking is the presence of quality cover that is secure. Deeming an area as a sanctuary doesn't set you apart from neighboring farms. Quality cover that is secure gets you way ahead! Holding deer during daylight hours is the name of the game. This is how you win at controlling the local deer herd.

It is time to start getting the chainsaws sharp! Trees need to drop and the sunlight needs to be reintroduced. Wildlife need to thrive, not simply survive. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Pennsylvania Deer Management and Habitat Management Dec 08, 2020

When it comes to the hunting heritage in the state of Pennsylvania the roots run deep. Hunters flock to the woods during the firearms season in numbers that few states can compete with. The sheer amount of hunters headed to the woods creates a landscape where deer are conditioned to hunters and pressure. Nocturnal deer movement and the chance for older age class bucks are a struggle for many who wish for better hunting.

Land & Legacy client Will Russell has worked hard on his property since our visit in 2019. From timber thinning, young forest openings (Bedding Thickets), edge feathering, and old field management are at the top of his list to improve the farm. By utilizing a logging operation he was able to complete much of his timber work in less than two years and the wildlife are already showing drastic improvements.

With all this work being done it's provided a great opportunity for his family to enjoy. WIth his six year old son joining him in the stand and his dad making his first archery harvest in over 20 years its been a season to remember! Tune in this week to hear the story of how we're changing the habitat and the perspective of deer hunting in Pennsylvania!

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Hunting the Rut Success - Bedding Areas Dec 01, 2020

Land management can take years to show improvement right? Wrong! Land & Legacy client Louie Zinn had a season to remember this fall. Adam worked with Louie in January of 2020 on his farm in western Illinois and they addressed the main habitat issues he was facing. Like many people in the midwest he was missing some key features to bring his property to the next level. Quality cover is something that is greatly overlooked and isn't hard to create.

With Eastern Red Cedar encroachment occurring throughout the farm this was louie's first project. By adding diversity and cutting the cedar trees Louie found immediate results and the deer were taking advantage of it! By utilizing a chainsaw and cutting cedars and thinning outer undesirable species with a mix of hinge cuts and flush cuts woody browse and cover were quickly added to the farm.

Through habitat restoration and property architecture Louie and his friend were able to tag two giant bucks on his farm less than a year after running the chainsaw! He's just getting started! Tune in to hear his story and how he's looking forward to the future! #ForLoveoftheLand

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What's the Difference between Bedding Areas and Sanctuaries? Dec 01, 2020

Time to set the record straight on terminology. Some of the most common phrases in the world of wildlife often get used incorrectly and then rarely implemented appropriately. The term bedding thicket and sanctuary are NOT interchangeable.

Sanctuaries are often large vast areas that receive little to no human intrusion. The lack of human intrusion then begins the assumption that the area is secure and holding deer. A secure area doesn't necessarily hold deer, but an area that offer secure cover does! That is the main difference between a sanctuary and a bedding thicket. The presence of actual deer cover is critical to see wildlife actually respond to it positively.

You will certainly want to join us on this podcast as we break down the important differences between these key terms in property layout. Enjoy. Learn. Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Harvesting a Buck with a Huge Home Range Nov 24, 2020

If the week couldn't get any better, the same morning that Michael Schupbach (brother-in-law) killed, Adam Keith also tagged out on a fine Missouri 8-pointer. This buck came in right at daylight and worked a scrape over hard. Thrashing antlers, breaking limbs, and pawing the ground, he did it all at just 35 yards. After looking over the buck Adam decided it was an go-time. A well-placed shot with the Deer Season XP Copper Impact only allowed the buck travel 35 yards.

After we all were able to get hands-on this buck, we identified him as a buck Matt had an encounter with last year during late bow season. Although the encounter took place close to where he was harvested, the buck has been seen on camera many hundreds of yards away and by a surveyor, as this buck chased does in the pasture in the other direction. We know very little about where this buck summered, but we know the last two falls, he was a regular, but a regular with a big range! It was anyones guess which camera location this buck would show up at next.

It's always enjoyable to have success each season, but it's special to connect the dots with a familiar buck! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Two Cruising Bucks Hit the Dirt Nov 24, 2020

During this episode, we review the first few days of Missouri Firearms season. To say it went off with a bang would be an understatement. Matt was fortunate to find success on the third morning of the season as a familiar 10-pointer showed himself. We break down the hunt, topography features, behavior, previous encounters, and hunts, that lead to this success. The buck barely covered 60 yards before piling up insight. This action was pretty fast, but, we captured it all on film, so be sure to follow along on the Youtube Channel to catch that action.

Just two days after Matt's success on the lease, Matt took Michael Schupbach (brother-in-law) out for his first hunt in many years. With limited time to be in the woods, Michael wanted to put his tag on some venison, little did he know, this first deer of the morning was a 20 inch wide 6 pointer! This buck almost got away, but Michael got the green light and delivered a lethal shot. This happened to be Michael's first buck! So we were thrilled to document the hunt and help a beginning hunter seal the deal.

You will want to follow along to hear the details of these two awesome hunts. Bucks were cruising hard and covering lots of ground this week! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Welcoming the "Orange Army" Nov 17, 2020

During this podcast, we speak on the tradition and heritage of firearms season. In addition, we discuss our own personal outings to the woods during the season opener! Although the weather was not cooperating we still had buck encounters and Adam heard more turkeys gobbling than during the spring!

Here in the state of Missouri, we have an 11 day gun season that is situated right during the middle of the rut. If you ask any serious bowhunter, you will hear how this does not often sit well with them. Despite mixed reviews, firearms season is a time for increased opportunity. That means opportunities for new hunters, youth hunters, disabled hunters, and folks with less time to hunt. Our dynamic as hunters and the world of conservation would drastically change if firearms season was altered.

We need to open our minds and thoughts to every opportunity we have to increase hunter participation. Stay safe in the woods! #ForLoveoftheLand

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A Giant 200" Buck Taken in Illinois with Ryan Kirby Nov 17, 2020

During this podcast, we catch up with Land & Legacy's client, Ryan Kirby to discuss his recent hunting success. Ryan recently made his annual voyage back home to Illinois to bow hunt the rut during November. This year was different than most as he was able to harvest a 200" inch whitetail on his family's farm. This buck is a giant whitetail, whose mass is out of this world! The fourth mass measurement was over 7 inches!

In addition to hearing the story of how Ryan harvested this giant whitetail, you will hear the hunt and habitat break down for a 154 inch 9-pointer that was taken by Ryan's friend on a 40-acre parcel that Ryan owns. Land & Legacy assisted Ryan in the development of this property. It's no wonder after hearing this story of why this giant 9-pointer was harvested downwind of a bedding area. This specific hunt and story is the picture-perfect reason behind why habitat needs to be manipulated. We took a transitional property and total changed it to hold deer.

If you like what you hear and want to create something like this on your property, please contact us at info@landandlegacy.tv. We hope you enjoy and create memories like this on land you own.

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Bucks in Range and Arrows Launched Nov 10, 2020

Following up last week's podcast when we dove deep into habitat and whitetail deer movements during the rut. This week, we review a bow hunt that eventually leads to a mature buck stepping into range for Adam and Chad.

As we noticed consistent daylight movement on a specific ridge on the Keith farm, we moved in mid-day to hang a new treestand to take advantage of the upcoming winds. This stand was positioned just off the edge of thick cover overlooking a few fresh scrapes. On the first sit, the buck they went in after, appeared with 5 does. The setup and plan were becoming a reality. You will have to find out what happened next by listening to the podcast!

This story is a culmination of years of habitat work, a three history with a specific buck, a lifetime of learning a property, and the predictability of November rut behavior! We hope you enjoy the podcast. #ForLoveoftheLand

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How to Prepare for the Lockdown Phase with Greg Glesinger Nov 10, 2020

During this episode, we sing the warmer weather blues with Greg Glesinger and provide you with some hot tips for getting in front of mature bucks despite the above-average temperatures. Greg also provides a hunt recap with Kasey Morgan as Kasey harvested a great Missouri buck over a decoy setup.

Hunters are taking to the woods as the calendar has flipped to sweet November. Although temperatures are in some areas are 20 degrees above average. Without fail bucks are still pursuing does as does are still coming into estrous, as photoperiod dictates these physiological processes, not the moon nor the day-to-day weather. In the podcast, we provide you with some great hunting tactics to put the odds back in your favor during this time period. Although temperatures may be restricting movement to dawn and dusk, you can still be successful with archery equipment.

Be sure to give this podcast a listen! Greg's insight he delivers is sure to give you an edge and an education on chasing whitetails. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Habitat Designed for the Pre-Rut Nov 03, 2020

On this weeks podcast, we discuss the necessary habitat and security cover requires to attract, hold, and hunt mature bucks during the pre-rut stage. This podcast will get you excited about hunting chaotic times of the year.

We break down why whitetails do what they do during November and how habitat is very strongly correlated to their movements. Secure bedding cover is like an magnet for deer during this time. Creating it can be easy, but location is key. You have to be able to access these areas to hunt them effectively. Don’t worry we walk you through this during the podcast.

Best of luck in the woods this week! Enjoy and Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Your Trail Cameras Have Been Lying Nov 03, 2020

This is a bold statement, but it’s true, especially during this time of the year. The pre-rut is a great time to get some fascinating deer behavior captured on trail cameras. But with all the intel you can gain, does it paint a full picture?

On this weeks podcast, we break down some crazy buck management that we captured this past week. In just 24 hours we captured over 1.5 miles of straight line movements! This deer was traveling long and far, but is this the normal? Trail cameras tell you what already happened, not what is going to happen.

Learn how we interpret trail camera information during this time of the year. #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Secrets from a Game Rich Consulting Trip Oct 27, 2020

Recently, Kyle, Frank, and Matt headed south to central Florida to work on a new farm. The property owners were looking to improve the overall function of the property, habitat, and wildlife. We went in with high hopes and we weren't disappointed with what we saw.

This property had less than drastic terrain features, yet the habitat types were extremely numerous and ever-changing. In total, the property's highest point was 46 feet and the lowest was 32 feet in elevation. The amazing part about this farm was the amount of cover it produced for species like quail, turkey, and whitetail deer. The cover was everywhere, almost too much! So we prescribed thinning certain areas and adjusting the composition of the cover. Overall the property in Florida was game rich and we break down all the reasons why!

We hope you enjoy the lessons in land management that this property has to share. Even central Florida can be turned into a sportsmen's paradise with sound land and wildlife management techniques. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Step by Step Pre-Rut Hunting Guide Oct 27, 2020

Guess what, it's about that time! The buck activity is ramping up all across the mid-west as we record this podcast. What a great time to be a bowhunter. Although the activity is escalating, that doesn't mean you should go in "guns blazing", you still need a plan and guide to put yourself in a likely setup to cross paths with a mature buck.

On this week's podcast, we break down how to read the sign and behavior you may be seeing on your trail cameras or field observations. Are you seeing bucks working scrapes in the daylight or are you seeing solo fawns wandering around aimlessly? These are signs of the stages of the rut and activity in the whitetail breeding season. In addition, we discuss what the next steps are for treestand selection. Travel corridors or pinch points are fantastic during this time of the year. The progression of young bucks to older bucks of chasing is in full swing.

If you want to make the most out of your hunting season for the next two week, give this podcast a listen! We share the activity level of bucks on our cameras, hopefully, soon we will be a full draw! #ForLoveoftheLand

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How to Decoy Mature Whitetails with Greg Glesinger Oct 20, 2020

On this week's podcast we break down with an expert the art of decoying in rutting whitetails to bow range! This podcast is fun, filled with great bowhunting tips, and stories of successful hunts, including several Boone and Crockett whitetails, postured up to slam a buck decoy.

Greg Glesinger is a very successful bowhunter who strongly believes in the power of a buck decoy during the pre-rut phase. His success is more than enough to get the average bowhunter jacked up about bowhunting over a decoy. Greg shares countless tips on how to properly set up the decoy, angles, ranges, locations in fields, and much more. This podcast will leave you feeling like a pro on how to decoy whitetail bucks into bow range once you've listened to it.

During the podcast, you will hear the intense stories of how bucks reacted to the well-placed decoy, including one, that left the decoy needing to be repaired by three bottles of super glue! That's intense. We hope you enjoy the podcast and share it with fellow hunters! #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Story of Missouri Buck Harvested Over Acorns with Seth Harker Oct 20, 2020

On this week's podcast we have returning guest Seth Harker to discuss his recent harvest of a mature buck over acorns. This is usually a very tall feat for most as trail cameras played a small role and woodsmanship skills are left to pick up the rest of the pieces. This story is exactly that!

Seth watched this buck throughout the summer months almost daily. He knew the area well that this buck was frequenting. Once season opened, he was high on the target list. With only 1 trail camera image in two weeks, Seth managed to stay on this buck's trail by observing natural food sources. Black oak acorns were falling and the deer and turkey revealed their desired food source at the time. A middle of the season scouting trip found the best location to intercept this buck! Listen as Seth tells the story of the hunt and be sure to watch it all unfold on the Land & Legacy Youtube Channel.

We hope you enjoy and learn somehting about mid-season scouting techniques. Trail camera images didn't reveal this pattern, scouting and knowing desired food sources sealed the deal! Enjoy and share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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How Does Rainfall Impact A Management Plan in Texas? Oct 13, 2020

On this week's podcast, we compare and contrast two different regions of the great state of Texas. Kyle Hedges joins Matt Dye on this podcast as the recommendations begin to flow.

As we know and share during this podcast, the region you own or hunt property in makes a considerable difference. We highlight two different properties this week, one that receives only 21 inches of rainfall a year and another that gets over 50, both in the state of TX, both that want to manage deer and wild turkey. 30 Inches of rain doesn't seem like a lot, but over the course of a year and the timing of these rains has serious implications on vegetation growth, prescribed usage, stress periods for wildlife and much more.

We hope you enjoy this week's podcast and learn more about the natural world and the factors that make it work and flow. #ForLoveoftheLand

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230" Whitetail Mega Giant Buck, Again! Oct 13, 2020

Not one, not two, but three bucks over 200" in four years is quite the accomplishment. Throw in a 193" buck last year and you're looking at one of the best four years of deer hunting anyone can have on free range whitetails! Greg Glesinger of Drury Outdoors is a longtime friend and Land & Legacy Client and his story is something we can all learn from.

"You have to put deer hunting aside when trying to manage your land." Gregs says when he made a major shift in the production of his farm. In 2017 we visited Greg's farms and immediately saw major potential. By focusing on ROI (Return on Investment) or practices that actually make a return on the property for wildlife value both in the short term and long term. Timber Stand Improvement, Old Field Management, Edge Feathering, Savanna Restoration, and many more, have led to one of the healthiest deer herds we have worked with.

We don't just discuss the habitat work, we also discuss hunting strategy and using ROI on selecting days to hunt. This is a podcast devoted to doing what's right for the land and how to capitalize on the benefits. Greg is a wealth of knowledge and we know you'll enjoy this one! #ForLoveoftheLand

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A 6.5 Year Old Buck Goes Down Oct 06, 2020

Follow along with us this week as we chat with Seth Harker who relives the story and multi-year hunt for a buck him and Trace call Hefty. Young bowhunter Trace Harker finally connects on this buck at just 25 yards. This podcast breaks down that journey of highs and lows.

Several seasons ago, Trace Harker shot Hefty at 4.5 years old. Unfortunately, the arrow didn't penetrate but thankfully the buck survived the shot and lived to be chased again. Following the same path and pattern in 2020, Hefty started becoming a regular on the Cuddeback cameras. After seeing the pattern redevelop in the exact same location, Seth and Trace went in after this now 6.5-year-old buck. Walking the same path, Hefty was arrowed by a well-placed arrow. Trace was pumped and the buck was down quickly.

Be sure to hear how Seth and Trace stayed with this deer for multiple years. There is some serious deer strategy talk as they take down another mature buck with a bow in early archery season. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Leaving a "Living Legacy" with Dr. Sanchez Oct 06, 2020

It's been too long since we had Dr. Sanchez back on the podcast but without any more waiting we breakdown what it means to leave a "Living Legacy". This podcast and topic is special to us as the work Legacy is within our own name.

In this podcast, we go deep into the long term impact of relationships. How do you maximize them? How do you use the outdoors and creation to connect with people? How do you support people and share wisdom with them? This podcast is incredibly relevant to how hunters, fathers, husbands, etc.. can be the best they can be.

We hope that you take time to reflect on this podcast and apply what you can to your life and relationships. Be sure to share this podcast with those who need to hear this message, be a friend to those in need. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Habitat Management - Quick Results and Quick Kills Sep 29, 2020

Learning from someone else's mistakes and also their best practices is a lot easier than trying to learn from your own mistakes. Land & Legacy Client Eric Pitcock bought his farm in 2016 and began the process of land management. In the beginning he started with planting food plots, fruit trees, and switchgrass. Results were limited and it was until the year 2020 when the fruit trees produced the first fruit. Over the years he's modified his management style to focus more on long term effects that can also have immediate results, such as timber stand improvements and invasive species control.

Have you ever heard of switchgrass plantings that result in a barrier deer won't utilize? This is a problem that Eric experienced after planting several acres in his old fields, fortunately enough he used a quick treatment of herbicide to knock the grass back and nature took over with head high natives that provided food and cover for many wildlife species! Nature loves diversity, and with Eric now managing for increased diversity and all wildlife he's seeing some of the quickest returns he's had since owning the farm.

With all this work done, it's no surprise it didn't take him very long to find a mature buck to hunt. In fact, it was his first hunt of the season. Tune in to this podcast to hear how it all unfolded! #Forloveoftheland

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Chasing a Missouri Velvet 8-Pointer Sep 29, 2020

On this podcast, we complete a multi-day hunt for a velvet 8-pointer in southern Missouri. We take you through the techniques and strategy we go through over several days of the hunt. This is an installment with almost play-by-play action.

After observing a big 150 inch 8 pointer, Chad goes in after him. We break down the strategy we deploy to get within bow range. This group of bucks is feeding each night in an alfalfa field on a cattle farm. To say there are a few variables to this hunt is an understatement. We break down our thought process as we attempt to put an arrow in this buck on the first weekend. We saddle hunt and even climb a tree only 10 feet off the ground to make this happen.

Be sure to follow along with this exciting semi-live podcast. Enjoy the hunt breakdown! Stay tuned for more hunts like this from the Land & Legacy team. #ForLoveoftheLand

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How Many Does Should I Shoot with Kip Adams Sep 22, 2020

During this podcast, you will hear from Kip Adams the Conservation Director of the QDMA. Kip is a long time hunter and land manager with extensive knowledge of whitetail deer management. Kip and his family own roughly 700 acres in north-central Pennsylvania. This farm is situated in a heavily hunted portion of the whitetail's range. With his class and willingness to educate fellow hunters, Kip shares his farm's personal trail camera history with us to learn from.

In this podcast, you will hear Kip discuss how to conduct a trail camera and hunter observation study. Then we will discuss in full detail what all these numbers like the buck to doe ratio, doe to fawn ratio, age structure, and percentage of the deer herd you should be harvesting. These numbers are real and have significance to everyone listening because they are repeatable. Acquiring these numbers isn't difficult. A simple camera trap along with hunter observation cards will do the trick.

Don't go into the season without having goals. If you want to grow bigger bucks, shoot does. Reduce the number of mouths and each deer will improve in condition. There is a balance or harmony with the land and wildlife that call it home that each land manager should strive to accomplish. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Observing Whitetails From the Treestand Sep 22, 2020

Whitetails reveal all that we need to know if we can read their body language. As bow season has opened up here in Missouri and only a few hunts in, a few observations have hit us squarely in the face. Deer tell us everything we need to know. We've observed a large destination food plot twice now. This plot has had 25-30 deer in it each night. With that many deer, it is easy to observe common whitetail deer behavior.

During this podcast, we breakdown how to read deer behavior. What does it mean when you see a deer's tail wag or a flag stand upright? What does it mean deer are alerted when feeding? What does it mean when you hear a deer blow? We break down all of these behaviors as many of them can be misunderstood by hunters. Knowing these common deer behaviors will make you a better woodsman and deer hunter. This information at the beginning of the season will give you the advantage as season opens up across the country.

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What Happened to the Quality Bucks? Sep 15, 2020

On this podcast, you will hear our take on a listener question. This question falls right in line with some of the recent podcasts we are having regarding herd management. This time it is on a bigger scale. We look beyond a single property and involve regions and states.

During the podcast, we talk about a real life example form Southern Iowa. This podcast follower has seen a decrease in the number and quality of bucks over the course of 8 years, despite completing some pretty serious land and herd management during this time. So, we break down in an honest review of what this landowner could be experiencing. This neighborhood is seeing crazy lease values and outfitting. The number of mature bucks being harvested annually is only increasing. The targets are being shot while does are left to increase.

If you want to hear the answer to this question on a deeper level, then follow along on the podcast. Take a dive down to the complexities of managing wild free ranging whitetails. #ForLoveoftheLand

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What's in Our Hunting Pack for 2020 Sep 15, 2020

As the bowhunting season is opening up across the country, we are putting the finishing touches on our gear selections for this season. Today's podcast revolves around the bowhunting gear we plan on taking to the deer stand this fall. You will get a list of the new products we are trying. As we move through the season, you will hear about our experiences with each one.

Every year, there are new products to choose from and try. Although we don't often get bogged down by the product game, it is still good to try new things and provide you with honest feedback from real-life hunting scenarios. Some of the products will include arrows, broadheads, blinds, saddles, boots, ozone, bows, and more.

Be sure to follow along to see what we plan to include in our whitetail hunting daypacks. This will be a fun fall! We hope you break the mold for 2020, get outside and try something new. This is a great year to take a new person hunting! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Managing For Improved Age Structures Sep 08, 2020

On this podcast, you will hear the recipe for having more big bucks on the landscape. This isn't rocket science, yet it seems hunters get caught up in genetics and food plots constantly. If you want more deer with bigger antlers then develop an age structure that allows deer to reach maturity. Plain and simple.

As the season begins to open up in your neighborhood, you are immediately faced with decisions. Do you harvest certain bucks or not? Without fail, we will hear, if I don't my neighbor will... Well, guess what, if you do, then your neighbor will not, regardless, you don't control every outcome. But every time you kill a but in defense of a neighbor, it dies. It doesn't get older and you were the road block between developing the age structure you wanted, not anyone else.

The secret recipe for big bucks comes not by buying products but with education, habitat, and age structure. The age structure can be influenced by not harvesting younger age class deer, offering secure cover, and creating a wildlife co-op. These are the options, what will you do differently? #ForLoveoftheLand

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A Deeper Understanding of Weather Fronts with Bryan Jackson Sep 08, 2020

We had to reach out to the experts on this topic. Bryan Jackson of the National Weather Service is an experienced meteorologist who works day in and day out studying weather. Bryan is a part of an experienced team that predicts the precipitation levels across the country. He joins us this week to teach us more about the weather. Any hunter or land manager needs to have a comprehensive understanding of interpreting weather conditions.

We spent time this week discussing how weather fronts are formed and the impact they have on things such as barometric pressure, prevailing winds, and precipitation. In addition, we breakdown the most recent hurricane Laura as many of us took cover or advantage of the rainfall and planted our food plots ahead of her arrival. There is so much to learn as we find out from Bryan. Weather predictions are not clear cut and dry. They are educated guess based on how thousands of variables will play out, so we have much to learn.

Take a few minutes to learn about the natural world and how it plays a huge part in our daily life. This podcast will leave you wanting to learn more about weather events and the climate in your region. #ForLoveoftheLand.

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Why We Burn in Late Summer Sep 01, 2020

On this habitat focused podcast, we discuss the benefits of the burning during the late summer. Yes, we burned during a drought recently here in southern Missouri with strict goals and objectives for this burn unit. On this podcast, we examine, how, why, when, and where.

Growing season fires are not like dormant season fires, they result in different outcomes. A growing season fire usually allows the forbs to flourish while controlling the woody saplings in the unit based on the time of the fire. Based on the ambient temperature outside, it is much easier to top kill a sapling when temperatures are warmer now than in February. The size of these units also are very important, we use a growing season fire to put the finishing touches after the broad strokes of habitat improvements have been made. Edge feathered areas usually respond very well to a growing season fire. It places more food and cover in close proximity to food plots.

Be sure to listen to this educational podcast on prescribed fire during the growing season. Turn your habitat into a dyanmic offering for the wildlife. #ForLoveofotheLand

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Our Outlook on a New Lease Sep 01, 2020

New opportunities are on the horizon for Land & Legacy this fall. With one phone call, we packed the truck and headed west to a new hunting opportunity. A generous client has offered an invitation for this fall to hunt a large property with him and his crew. We quickly jumped on the chance and this podcast, is our plan of attack to chasing whitetails in Oklahoma.

This property is managed intensely for waterfowl. However, that doesn't mean there aren't ample opportunities for quality whitetails. During this podcast, we break down our perspective prior to visiting this farm recently and then again after the visit. With having eye balls on the farm our perspective and season outlook has changed. Be sure to follow along as we dissect the farm, habitat, variables, and season dates for 2020 in Oklahoma.

This podcast is a look into the fall hunting season for the Land & Legacy team. We are thrilled to hit the woods soon with the crew chasing whitetails in Missouri and now Oklahoma. We hope you enjoy the podcast and can share some of the same principles on learning new hunting territories. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Land Management vs. Herd Management Aug 25, 2020

Have you ever heard of the phrase "that farm is managed"? Have you stopped to consider what that means? Do you wonder, what type of management they are talking about? Overtime we have seen this term become devalued and over-generalized.

During this podcast, we clearly outline the difference between herd management and land management. These two different types of management play huge roles in the progress we aim to see on land. Land management involves, TSI, prescribed fire, old-field, etc. Herd management involves tracking and selectively harvesting deer based on recorded data such as adult sex ratios, fawn recruitment rates, recorded weights, and overall carrying capacity.

If you desire to maximize your property you have to actively manage. Manage the land in sync with the herd. It's not, one or the other, it's both. If you want results, manage every aspect and year-round by addressing the needs of the land and herd. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Proven Dove Hunting Tactics Aug 25, 2020

During this podcast, we sit down with Kyle Hedges of Land & Legacy to discuss the cheat codes for dove season. The opening day of dove season in many states is just as important as deer season. The heritage and tradition built around this sport is impressive, so give this podcast a listen to learn how to be successful every summer.

Last year at this time, we discussed how to plant and manage a pristine sunflower patch for opening day. This year, we discuss what natives should you be hunting over for doves. Do you hunt pond banks with bare dirt? What about roost trees? Some of the top native species to look for when scouting for doves are, barnyard grass, foxtail, ragweed, and wholly croton.

If you enjoy dove hunting, it's not too late to scratch out a few good hunts for this year. Download this podcast to increase your chances as dove season in your neck of the woods opens up! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Ohio Update Aug 18, 2020

On this weeks podcast, we discuss the flexibility of land. We have worked a certain property in Ohio for several years now. Despite working the same property, the ownership has changed hands. This means plans change! We cover this week, how new owners means new objectives, but the question is, can the land handle the change?

Since the property has sold, the new owners are now full time residents of the property with a young family. This means the property has more hands to work it, but more hunters as well. So we need to accommodate for that and increase the access and number of hunting locations across the farm. In addition, the amount of useable space for whitetails needs to increase as well. We need to add cover across the entire farm to increase the overall carrying capacity. This was done with solid execution in the last 5 months. Roughly 20 acres of clear cuts have been completed. Over 15 acres of native grass and forbs blends have been established. Cover is not limiting on the property! The land is handling the changes very well, despite many drastic measures, the response has been great.

The land has responded very well, but so has the deer herd. After reducing deer numbers significantly, the fawn recruitment rate is extremely strong. But also impressive are the size of some of these bucks. Despite a dry summer, these bucks have grown impressive racks!

We hope you enjoy this podcast and use it as fuel to change your property for the better. Remember drastic improvements come from drastic changes! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Hindsight is 20/20 - Mistakes on the Land Aug 18, 2020

Sometimes the best way to learn is to look back in history at what worked and most importantly, what didn't work. During this podcast we discuss some of the biggest failures we've ever committed on our family farm and some of the most common we see people making. If you're looking to make an impact on your farm without it costing a fortune don't miss this podcast.

We're walking through techniques we used that we're still trying to correct today, like deep tillage, hinge cutting, and even road layout. Many decisions we make when managing our land affect the farm for the long haul. Consider the importance of a plan and working through that plan to ensure that progress is made. As a young land manager we spent many weekends randomly working the property with no real plan, my how things have changed.

If you're not tracking your progress with photos of before and after your work and journaling your work, you're falling into the same trap that we did. That has been one of the biggest regrets we have in land management and thankfully you shouldn't have to make the same mistakes. Listen in to this podcast to avoid those annoying regrets and mistakes. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Overhauling an Iowa Hunting Property Aug 12, 2020

During this weeks podcast we bring you an update from the owners of Bur Oaks Bluff. This 280 acre property is getting a habitat facelift.

Since the owners took possession earlier in 2020, many things across the property have changed. We cover topics such as cedar removal, food plot expansion, TSI, edge feathering, tillable acres expansion, fishing pond improvements, and more! This property is well on its way to creating a dynamite whitetail property in a under estimated period of Iowa. Southern Iowa isn’t the only place giant whitetails are produced.

Give this podcast a listen if you want to watch a farm come alive for wildlife in the coming years. This farm will be a destination location for a future outdoor minded family.

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Wool and Whitetail Hunters with Kevin Harlander of First Lite Aug 12, 2020

It’s been coming for a while, the wool revelation for the typical eastern whitetail hunter. Wool has been used for hundreds of years as a premium fabric for all kinds of clothing. This week, we speak with Kevin Harlander of First Lite to learn about the company and the secrets of wool based hunting gear.

Are your tired of the overheating on your way to the treestand, but freezing your tail off as you sit the whole day? We were too! After much research and trial and error we have switched to wearing wool hunting clothing. From the start of season till the end, the Properties of wool keep us covered.

In addition to creating incredible hunting clothing, First Lite is devoted to the conservation of wild things. From west to East, this company is giving back to the habitat. Not just money, but time, labor, and education.

If you haven’t given First Lite a chance, we encourage you to try some pieces this fall and support a conservation minded company!

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The Foundational Element of Landscape Architecture Aug 04, 2020

During this week's podcast, Matt and Frank discuss one of the largest and overlooked fundamental aspects of land management, location! Your specific region matters. The east is not the west and the north is not the south. Despite bobwhite quail living in all of these regions and despite it being the same animal you are managing for, the management will be different!

The region you live in and manage is likely the second largest factor when it comes to management decisions. The first being, what species you will be managing for, but second is your location in that species range. Social media has connected people and brought to light some good and bad techniques over the years. However, the connection of people has often led to many practices being mis-used. Things that work in the north for deer, many not work or be even remotely necessary for those in the south. It is imperative to know your location, soils, rainfall, temperature, growing degree days, first and last frost dates.

We encourage you to download the podcast and listen closely. This podcast will help elevate your understanding of your property and how it relates to your region. Manage with fundamental principles to get the response you want! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Step by Step Fall Food Plot Planting Guide Aug 04, 2020

Are you ready for fall like we are? Ready or not here it comes. During this week's podcast we discuss how fall food plots actually work. We start at the basis with the understanding of how seeds germinate. Germination of seeds starts when adequate moisture is available, yet, most food plots start off with a practice of removing all the soil moisture, like discing.

In addition, after discussing how to get the most out of your food plot planting, we dive into soil improvement techniques. The phrase "I'm building soil" is often misused and misunderstood. So we discuss in detail the 5 principles of building soil health. These principles should not be confused or deviated from as they simply work with mother nature. Building soil does not happen overnight, the process is complex and the solution will be as well. Monocultures are not the solution. Be sure to hear us out on this topic. It's a hot button item, but simply science should be applied to understand how the soil should be improved.

Be sure to share with others who need to hear this message. To get the most out of your food plots, you need to understand the medium they are planted in. Give this podcast a download and a share. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Introducing the National Wildlife Cooperative Jul 28, 2020

Here it is! Finally the wait is over, after a few years of development, Hunter Pruitt the founder of the National Wildlife Cooperative is ready to release his baby. We are thrilled to be a part of the launch of this project. If you are a landowner or lease ground, turn your ears all the way up, this podcast and organization is for you.

Research strongly supports the need for landowners joining forces to work side by side improving the habitat for a wide array of wildlife species. We are not talking about improving properties, we are talking about improving regions! This is an organization for the benefit of the landowner and wildlife, not itself. This grassroots organization puts the value back on the land and landowner, with a focus not just on one animal, but land and wildlife itself, so we can get on board with that!

Have you considered starting a wildlife cooperative in your area? Do you know where to begin? Please take time and visit the National Wildlife Cooperative website. Read the information provided and take action, open dialogue with your neighbors and start improving regions! Look beyond your property, don't just stop there. #ForLoveoftheLand

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How We Are Implementing Wildlife Cooperatives Jul 28, 2020

We would be hypocritical if we didn't implement cooperatives in our region. These cooperatives are wide ranging in the structure, some will be very organized while others will be fresh and new. However, the important thing is they will be started and communication can begin between landowners.

This week we have two interviews during the podcast, one with Matt Dye and Seth Harker who was before his time and started working with neighbors to improve the overall neighborhood he leased ground in. Although not all jumped on board right out of the gate, his region is now seeing some incredible results, routinely harvesting multiple 150" class whitetails yearly and countless turkeys. In comparison, Adam and Chad discuss how they plan to begin a cooperative around the Prairie Hollow property. At this time the neighborhood is full of hunters, but very little communication between the groups. In time, with open dialogue, this too will be a region to watch wildlife and habitat be improved.

This week is full of wildlife cooperative news! We hope you will join us in standing up for wildlife and the land they roam. Carry the torch in your neck of the woods to discuss goals and expectations with others openly. #ForLoveoftheLand

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What Fall Food Plot Blend is Best For You? Jul 21, 2020

Over the course of several years we have worked closely with Stratton Seed Company to develop many different blends for food plotters across the country. Without fail, we always get the question, what food plot blend should I plant? This broad question leads to many other questions. So this podcast addresses the benefits of each fall annual blend that Stratton Seed company offers. In addition, Keith Hammer of Stratton Seed Company joins us on the line to do the fall food plot blend breakdown.

Two of the top food plot contenders each and every fall is between the Legacy Blend and the Bounty Hunter Blend. Although composed of similar species, these two blends complete different objectives for the food plotter looking into the future. The Legacy Blend is dynamic and offers benefits from fall through the winter and well into early summer with a diverse blend including three different annual clovers. In comparison the Bounty Hunter provides great forage from fall through spring, but times out earlier than the Legacy Blend. These differences maybe the most important when it comes to deciding which one to plant. Find out which one is best for you.
Don't forget about the clover options as well, both annual and perennial with the Emerge and Revival blends. Both are dynamic but accomplish different tasks in the food plot. The Revival blend is likely our favorite blend from the benefits it provides over the course of an entire year. It is important to remember that it is a perennial so this benefit comes year after year!

We hope you enjoy this week's podcast and give Stratton Seed a try this fall. Be sure to checkout all the options for food plots at www.shoplandandlegacy.com

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Finding the Good in Hot, Dry Weather Jul 21, 2020

How's the weather in your part of the world? It's the middle of the summer so most of us are experiencing the severity of summer heat. If the summer rains have missed you, you're probably looking at a drought. As a deer manager we've likely been told to hate droughts and that "wet weather means bigger, healthier deer." Although that statement may have some truth, the natural world doesn't revolve around just deer.

Finding the positive in the situation can not only help you appreciate the current situation but it can also help you understand how changing weather patterns can help certain plants and animals. One of the biggest topics covered in this podcast is the benefit of a dry nesting season for ground nesting birds like quail and turkeys. While a deer hunter may hate the heat, a quail manager will be relieved without the worry of flooding.

Finally, during a drought you can monitor food plot species and native species and observe which species thrives in the heat and which fails. With acres and acres of cool season non native grasses throughout the midwest it's easy to see how the heat takes the life out of many acres of the landscape. Take this time in the summer to look over your farm and find a void of productivity and work to improve it! Don't let the summer heat get you down, change your perspective and look to improve your natives! #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Things I Wish Were True Jul 14, 2020

This podcast is one for the ages! We take a light hearted approach this week to land management information. Disclaimer, these "research" points are just fun jokes to show the importance of diversifying the landscape is. These are not true, but humorous to imagine if they were true, just how much valuable work would get done.

From the title of the podcast, you can tell that the topics in this podcast aren't actually true. Things such as, "Had you heard, that midges that carry EHD require eastern red cedar for egg laying purposes?" Obviously, this isn't true, however imagine if it was for a moment. The vast monocultures of eastern red cedar that decrease water intake, biodiversity, and much more would be addressed. This is just one example of many that we wish were true.

Take this podcast light heartedly! We hope you enjoy it as it will bring humor to your day. Let's get out there and work the landscape, run a chainsaw, target invasives, and remove some nonative cool-sesaon grasses! Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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What is Our Land Actually Telling Us? Jul 14, 2020

Our land, public or private is showing clear signs of warning. In many places the land is degraded and in need of assistance. How do we know this? Well, the clues are everywhere, we just need to be looking and observing to see these clear indicators.

The health of our landscape is greater than chasing a mature whitetail or gobbling turkeys in the spring. Stress on the landscape has revealed itself in many different ways, it's our job to bring this to light so that we can address the issues. Things such as invasive species infestations, soil erosion issues, poor soil health, unhealthy forests, degrading populations or isolating populations due to poor habitat conditions. All of these are signs that something is out of whack or unbalanced in nature.

This podcast is not meant to bring a bummer to your day, but simply enlighten you to beware of the fact, we have work to do. The world is not coming to an end, but we have areas across the landscape that need help! Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Don't Emotionally Buy A Hunting Property Jul 07, 2020

During this podcast you will hear how two Land & Legacy listeners used us to help find them the perfect property to reach their goals. Oftentimes we find folks enter into real estate transactions on an emotional basis. This emotion can cloud judgement and cause buyers remorse months later.

Wil Perry and his father contacted us to find them the right recreational property in the mid-west. Even being from north Georgia, they wanted to become non-resident landowners with their hearts set on Southeast Kansas. This area has its positives and negatives, but by purchasing the right property, you can have some incredible hunting success. So we worked with them and scoured the listings to find the top properties at the time on the market. With solid communication and critical evaluations of each one, we landed on one specific property. By utilizing our network of agents across the country, we found the proper closing agent and got the deal done.

Flash forward to July 2020 and the Perry's are proud owners of a 120 acre parcel in Elk County Kansas. This property has already had a Land & Legacy consultation and at the moment it is underway in the transformation. With an educated and calculated purchase, this property will not only meet, but likely exceed the expectations of the Perry's. We are blessed to have assisted on their journey, but look forward to working with other like minded land owners. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Buying Land "Outside of the Box" Jul 07, 2020

Do you dream of owning your own property one day? Do you have a complex understanding of what that buying process looks like? During this podcast you will be enlightened on how the world of buying and selling recreational real estate work. Our goal with every client is to work on behalf of clients to help them reach their goals whether they contact us when they already own a property or are just entering the buying process.

We discuss in this podcast the role of buying agents, selling agents, commission splits, and the truths behind the real estate marketing schemes you commonly see. It will open your eyes to the weaknesses as you are preyed upon by the marketing of recreational property. We all know that not every piece of property can be a "Big Buck Paradise".

In addition, you will hear our pitch for the Ozarks. With the recent current events and the drive for people to become self sustainable the land ownership opportunities locally are very appealing. Our local real estate values are affordable, but offering some incredible hunting opportunities as well. It takes work, but we know the recipe to make it happen. Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Are Gov't Cost Share Programs Really Worth It? Jun 30, 2020

During this podcast, we break down a contract on an existing Land & Legacy project. These are real numbers applied to real habitat management projects. We encourage everyone to listen to the podcast who has had interest in enrolling in these types of programs. These cost-share programs help conserve and pay landowners to implement sound management practices on their property.

Page by page we cover the different techniques, from our of work that would be completed, how we would complete the work all the way down to how much cash is exchanged for doing it. Some of the management practices included are FSI, prescribed fire, conservation cover, temporary forest openings, medium brush management all the way up to heavy brush management. If you've ever wondered how, why, or if its worth enrolling your land into cost-share programs, then this podcast is for you! Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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The Great Debate - Food vs. Cover Jun 30, 2020

Oftentimes the debate of food versus cover has caused heated discussions among hunters. Here is the quick and simple explanation, the answer is both. Why would you attempt to manage for either one without the other? That does not make sense. Great food without quality cover in close proximity is useless. In comparison, only having cover and no food is severely limiting!

After a recent trip to the incredible state of Iowa, this debate becomes incredibly clearer. The vast amount of acres of food literally covered the landscape from tillable crops to alfalfa, and legume heavy pastures. This amount of food is great, but it is only available for 5-6 months out of the year, then the food supply drops drastically. Imagine a place where the food supply does not stop or is at least sustainable throughout the remainder of the year. In contrast, cover of high quality is limited in Iowa as well. Some old field areas or CRP offer solid cover, but even this has times when it is less than ideal cover. Young forests are very rare, so adequate winter cover is rare.

It is important to remember that food and cover is not a decision to be made. Both are just as equally as important to have on a property. As good as Iowa is, it has holes and could use improvement. #ForLoveoftheLand

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This Is Why We Love Land Jun 23, 2020

Hope you are ready for a passion-filled podcast! This week we fly off the cuff and provide listeners with an in-depth look at why we love land. Being passionate about something requires devotion and deep understanding. This hour is filled with countless reasons why we are so devoted to learning as much as we can about land and being the best land managers and landowners as we can be.

The first profession was a caretaker of the land. This is a calling, so we feel as if those who own land have a big responsibility. The connection between the biological world we live in and manage is so closely connected to the spiritual world. The illustrations between being a gamekeeper and real-world scenarios are countless. So the more we know or educate ourselves about the biology of plants and animals, the more we grow spiritually. Landis bigger than hunting, it's bigger than food plots, it has more to offer. If all you do is hunt and food plot, you are only scratching the surface when it comes to overall enjoyment of land.

Please take time to consider this podcast. Reflect on your experiences. Get outside and spend time enjoying the natural world, you're called to do it! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Planting Natives and Homesteading in the Mid-Atlantic Jun 23, 2020

On a recent trip to the mid-Atlantic region, Matt was able to spend time reviewing success from a client who planted diverse natives as well as met with a new landowner who has converted just 1.5 acres into a food production mecca! You will hear about both wonderful stories on this week's podcast.

It is a joy to share with everyone the success that those who implement the plans have. These real-life examples are perfect to build off of and use as encouragement for others to replicate this success on their own property. We sit down with Kevin of southern Maryland to discuss the progress of the native wildlife corridors he planted. In just year two this planting is booming with life from diverse grasses to many pollinator species.

In addition, we interview Daniel Adams of Up and Adams Farm. Daniel is a brand new client of Land & Legacy, but while onsite, we took time to review the other ways he is using his land. Daniel and his family devote 1.5 acres to food production. This includes 40 laying chickens, 90 meat chickens, 5 pigs, and a 7,500 sq foot garden that could support 30 different families. This type of production out of 1.5 acres is incredible! We can't wait to hear what you think about this content! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Why Do I Need to Identify Plants? Jun 16, 2020

Grab your pen and paper for this podcast! After many months of debating this podcast topic, we release the truths behind the knowledge that will take you deeper in the understanding of your property. The foundation of habitat management is a detailed knowledge of the resources that comprise habitat offered on the property. This foundation is simply, what vegetation is growing?

Without being able to identify what plant species are growing it is impossible to make sound or qualified land management decisions. It would be irresponsible for someone to either apply herbicide or cut trees down without knowing what they are spraying or even what they are sinking a chainsaw into. During the podcast, we stress the importance of repetition and intentional learning of the plant species growing on your property. This doesn't happen without practice. In addition, we leave you with 20 very common plant species that deer strongly relate to in four different categories, trees, shrubs, forbs, and grass. If you can learn these 20 species you can learn 200 more. But this requires you to start!

Learning the native flora in your region is a skill. This skill makes you powerful in the land management game. Begin using helpful apps such as iNaturalist to sharpen your skills! Be diligent and learn these species so you can learn how to improve as a land manager and hunter. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Where Did All the Quail Go?! Jun 16, 2020

Where did all the quail go? This is a recurring question that begins in the eastern United States and ends in western United States with many ideas and opinions. Like many complicated questions, it has a very complicated answer that we do our best to break down and discuss some of the biggest factors in the decline of the Bobwhite Quail. From habitat loss, to predators, to farming practices, to timber harvest, Kyle and Adam paint a picture of a landscape during the early 1900's to mid 1960's to present day.

Bobwhite Quail numbers have been declining for many years now and without an understanding of the problem there will be no real solution. Education is the solution to many problems in our world today and educating everyone that "Predators ate all the Quail," is simply a false statement. Did you know that farming today looks entirely different than it did even 30 years ago? Or that one of the country's largest sawmills sat in south central Missouri, where close by, quail hunting was done with a canoe and dogs floating the Current River. What a changing world we live in!

Quail discussions shouldn't all be doom and gloom and this podcast isn't either. We chat about the great things we can do as land managers to bring the quail back. Co-operatives to government cost-share opportunities to incentivize landowners to improve their farms and be rewarded for their work! Deer hunters, don't miss the boat on this, it's important you care about quality habitat as well! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Food Plot Trials and Tribulations Jun 09, 2020

If we could sum up food plots in one question or phrase it would likely be, "How can we maximize our food plot production with as little time and money as possible?" We strive to always find the best products for the money and allow us to have the best return on our investment. It is no different with food plots and we've fortunately been planting and testing for a long time. During that time we've found some major money pits, bad practices, and also very quick results that helped landowners save money all while still growing successful food plots.

Why does soil health always include non-native annual species? Why soil health improvement shouldn't involve monocultures of plants and low diverse blends. These are all questions and concerns we discuss in new movements headed towards soil health. We really get into the weeds on this podcast as we talk about implementing cattle into our system to build diversity and increase disturbance on the food plots.

Finally, we touch on some of our testing with no drill, and only small equipment like ATV's and UTV's and how almost anyone can go no till. Diversity wins again! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Creating Summertime Thermal Cover Jun 09, 2020

On this week’s podcast we cover all things summer and heat. It’s been heating up in the Midwest and a recent consulting trip to Texas reinforced the need for thermal cover. Yes, thermal cover for the summertime. The heat and potential for drought are something land managers should consider.

Can you imagine what summer thermal cover looks like? How do you create it? Why is summer thermal cover even necessary? We address these questions and more. By the end of the podcast you will be considering shade, aspects of slopes, bedding on extended points, wind currents and much more. Don’t forget about the bottomland management as well. Creeks with shaded sandy banks will be “hot” spots.

Don’t let the heat keep you from managing your land appropriately. Make sure you address each stress period adequately for the wildlife you want to promote.

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It's Time To Start Focusing on the "Little Guys" Jun 02, 2020

In this podcast, Frank and Matt discuss the foundation and start of life for many of the game species we all enjoy chasing. We address rumors and common misunderstandings that revolve around nesting, brood rearing, lactation and fawning.

One of the common thoughts is that spring rains destroy nests from flooding or even flood and wash turkey poults into the mighty Mississippi River. This idea has spread and caused a lot of misunderstanding on how to best understand weather events during the Spring. It is not flooding that causes poor recruitment, it's the lack of a poult's ability to stay dry. Rain and cool nights cause hypothermia, this inability to regulate body heat ultimately causes the young birds to perish. In addition, fawns can be just as fragile. If you are trying to grow the biggest or baddest deer herd possible, it starts with healthy does, lactation, and quality fawning cover. Just because you see fawns on camera and your deer population isn't struggling like bobwhites, doesn't mean fawning habitat can't be improved.

Be sure to give this podcast a listen! We need to collectively begin thinking of the spring as one of the most critical times in our game species life. Let's commit to solid education as it will guide our management in a more productive fashion. Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Open Your Eyes, You're a Land Manager! Jun 02, 2020

The best tool a land manager can have is their own two eyes! Chainsaws, prescribed fire, tractors, drills, sprayers are all great, but if you don't see what needs to be seen, then the tools we do have will be misused.

One of the largest problems we see when we tour farms is the lack of knowledge the landowner has of their given property. In many cases, the most time a landowner spends on the property is spent on a UTV, not their own two feet. To see what's happening on a property, you have to walk. Walk constantly, get off the roads, take the beaten path. If you spend 80% of our time on the roads, we miss 90% of the property and the resources the farm actually is offering. You have to monitor the property, trail cameras, food plots, and road systems only tell a small fraction of the story. In addition, do you terminate your food plots too early? Are you cutting the fall blend too short? We answer these questions as well this week.

We hope you Enjoy.Learn.Share! Tag a fellow landowner who needs to hear this message. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Timber Management in the North Woods May 26, 2020

This Spring has been one to remember from chasing turkeys to burning down the roads on consulting trips. Two recent trips took Adam to the hills of Central Pennsylvania and Matt to the lakes of Minnesota. These two northern regions created some important field observations and similar management strategies.

When traveling and working in different regions of the country it is important to recall the significance of each area. There are no cookie-cutter situations where all the techniques work the same and the climate conditions are similar. On our trips, we both recognize that woody browse is so incredibly significant to understand and produce, there are various ways to accomplish this. For Adam, timber harvesting was critical and being executed routinely. On the other hand, TSI and shrub plantings were the recommendations for Matt in his region. Without a doubt, principles of habitat management don't change, however, each and every region must be studied and examined to produce the best habitat that is suitable for wildlife. is applicable.

We hope you enjoy learning about the management opportunities that each region has even if you are from other portions of the country. Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Expanding Travel Corridors and Increasing Diversity in Kansas May 26, 2020

Back on the road again, Matt and Frank discuss a recent trip to the heart of deer country in SouthEast Kansas. Working with new landowners is always enjoyable, but these two, a father and son, have an incredible work ethic and desire to improve habitat the right way. They aren't looking for quick fixes, they know the work before themis going to be tough, but rewarding. So we developed a plan for them to use in transforming a simple travel corridor into a deer holding and hunting mecca.

This 120 acres of an abandoned homestead is the only cover around for a large area. Two large creek systems flow through the farm north to south that is surrounded by native pastures and dotted agriculture fields. You can see as it lays by examining and aerial that this farm would be attracting deer along this large corridor. However, that is isn't satisfactory, the goal is to maximize each and every acre! So we are going to expand existing corridors, create new ones running east to west with the existing cover andslow deer down as they hit the farm by creating new food resources and superior bedding.

I cannot wait to get the success photos back from these two! This farm is ready for an overhaul and these two landowners are just the pair to do. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Do Soybeans Really Grow Antlers? May 19, 2020

Sit back and enjoy! Yup, we went there and put a bullseye on soybeans! This week, we invited Kip Adams of the QDMA to discuss how bucks grow antlers. This is a complex subject and one that many folks are severely misunderstood about. The timing is critical to understand when evaluating the driving factors and influences revolving around antlers.

Many people are focused on turkey hunting or food plots to slow down and see that antler formation begins during late March or April each and every year. Soybeans in most areas are still two months away from being a beneficial forage and adding value to antler growth. Roughly 50%+ of antlers are developed by mid-June! Think about that the next time you consider how valuable food plots are to growing antlers. So what then makes antlers grow? Forbs, native broadleaf annual and perennial plant species are the magic that fuels the mind-blowing growth every hunter is enthralled with each fall.

Please take time to share this podcast with each hunter, food plotter. land manager, and whitetail enthusiast that you know. Antlers help drive conservation, so understanding them is critical will help improve habitat across the country.

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Evaluating the Results of Prescribed Fire May 19, 2020

If you haven't learned yet, we love prescribed fire for managing native plant communities. Fire has so many different elements that impact the result of applying fire to the landscape. It has its cautions, but so do running a chainsaw and applying an herbicide. Take the precautions and use this incredible tool!

After two different prescribed fires completed this year on the Prairie Hollow Property, there are several results to discuss. The later burn timing allowed us to specifically target and top kill multiflora rose and many other woodland shrubs such as spicebush. After opening up the canopy over the past few years through a timber harvest and TSI, the growth was impressive, so fire allowed us to reset this growth. It is critical as we discuss in the podcast to have sunlight reaching the ground if you want prescribed fire to produce quality results. If you want or need drastic results, you have to do drastic things!

We hope you enjoy learning about prescribed fire and how we use this natural and incredible tool to improve the landscape for wildife and plant communities.

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Using Cattle to Improve Wildlife Numbers May 12, 2020

The ongoing statement is that cattle and wildlife can't co-exist and this podcast is devoted to debunking that statement. Adam and Kyle discuss the use of cattle in a grazing rotation that he calls "conservation grazing." This system uses cattle to replicate historical Bison herds on the diverse landscape to improve habitat for Bobwhite Quail and other grassland birds. This grazing has not only increased diversity on the landscape for grassland birds but also species like whitetail deer.

One of the biggest questions by landowners in our consulting business is the possibility of bringing in financial gains on their farm. Cattle grazing contracts could be a great way to increase income, improve habitat, and increase animal populations. Win! Win! Win!

We discuss the differences in grazing patterns you'll find commonly used on the landscape today and what a herd of cow/calf or stockers looks like and their individual grazing selection. We even take a look at the historical fires and grazing and what the historical landscape might have looked like and how we can replicate it! #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Lies Grandpa Told Us About Land Management May 12, 2020

We all grew up listening to our Grandpa's, hanging on every word they had to share with us. Well, these days we find that not all of these phrases hold true. This podcast is devoted to searching for the truth in science and then how we can apply this to the property we manage.

Grandpa's always seemed to undervalue soil, as it was commonly referred to as dirt. This misunderstanding of such a valuable resource has led to decades of mistreatment of this resource. Now we know with the help of science and technology that there is more life under the soil than above it. These ideas and misconceptions have led to poor practices and management decisions when planting seeds whether working in food plots or agriculture fields. The search for fresh, new, peer-reviewed science gives us the best knowledge and decision making power. We have one life to improve the world we call home. It's time we make a devotion to decision making based on truth and science. Give the wildlife and natural resources your best!

Please share this podcast! Let's learn and share valuable information with one another. This will result in powerful changes and improvements all across the country. Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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How to Properly Manage Open Acres May 05, 2020

On this podcast, we talk specifically on the best ways to manage open acres on recreational land. These open acres can be comprised of various forms of cover, foods, and security. After a recent consulting trip to Kansas, the topic of open management is on the brain. Most landowners have open acres to manage and improve for wildlife, so listen up!

On the podcast, we cover, native pasture management, cattle management, bottomland TSI, invasive species management, crop rotations, cover cropping, CRP, and non-resident food plot acres. All of these topics make for great conversations regarding midwest wildlife management. This multi-purpose property us going to be developed into a fantastic recreational property with income when he implements the recommendations on his property.

We hope you enjoy learning how to manage the open acres on your property during this podcast. Thanks for sharing and listening! ForLoveoftheLand

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Why Are You Buying That? May 05, 2020

During this podcast, we examine the benefits of purchasing the latest and greatest gear versus simply habitat management tools. These tools we compare and contrast are priced in the same ballpark as a common new hunting product such as the newest bow, greatest trail camera, or even a shoulder mount.

As hunters, we need to do a better job at improving the habitat rather than taking from it consistently. What would happen if all the hunters decided to purchase a chainsaw rather than the newly released rangefinder. What would happen to the land, would we see healthier animals, or even more conservation efforts put into place? We think so, therefore use this podcast as a great reminder of how you spend your time and money can impact the land we hunt even more! Habitat improvements don't happen unless they are we start them, that falls on our shoulders.

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Turkey Management 301 Apr 28, 2020

Here it is, all you need to know about turkey management. Do you have turkeys on your property now? Do you want turkeys? Download this podcast and apply these techniques to the property you hunt to create more habitat for the wild turkey. Turkeys are diverse so therefore they need lots of different plant communities on the landscape to persist.

The expansive diet of the wild turkey is a great reminder of just how diverse the habitat needs to be. Turkeys need to have grasses, forbs, insects, worms, hard mast, soft mast, gravel and all of these different elements in the right spatial arrangement. Without these arranged appropriately the rearing of turkeys will be limited. Similar to whitetail management, diversity reigns king! In addition, the height of the vegetation is also very important, too tall or too thick and the acre becomes unusable. In this podcast, we talk timber management, prescribed fire rotation for turkeys, bare soil, fallow fields, and roosting sites.

Please do your part in becoming a producer and share this podcast. The wild turkey will thank you! These critters are amazing, but we need to do our part in managing these birds for others to enjoy. EnjoyLearn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Spring Turkey Success Part 2 Apr 28, 2020

What an unreal first week of the spring turkey season for the Land & Legacy team in southern Missouri. Opening day was a huge success for Matt and Seth Harker. Two birds were down just as we planned in Part 1 of this podcast series. On the other hand, Adam and Chad Keith struggled during the first day, but made a strong showing on the second day of the season when they tagged two mid-day gobblers.

Each turkey hunt was unique in its own way and we share the breakdown of those hunts on this episode. From strong gobbling turkeys, decoy shy birds, and bully jakes interfering with several hunts. To learn how we still remain successful under these conditions you will want to tune in! These hunts will be on the Youtube Channel and social media channels soon, so be sure to subscribe. You will hear our different techniques in hunting these early season scenarios.

We hope you have a great successful turkey season. Be sure to share your harvest photos with us online! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Are You a Producer or a Consumer? Apr 21, 2020

Here we go! This podcast topic has been brewing for several weeks. In essence, the podcast is simply produced to get people thinking about pulling the trigger. We have spent several years discussing all the things it takes to fall into place for turkeys, quail, and deer to be produced. This is not just a simple phenomenon that we have huntable populations. When habitat in most of the country is rapidly declining, we have to recruit more producers than we currently have.

This podcast is heavy, but we need to consider the actions we take in the off-season seriously. With rising recreational land prices, cattle and crop prices dropping, it is more difficult more than ever to become a producer. Farmers are needing to squeeze more "juice from the lemon" off their land to simply make a living these days. This means all the potential ground that can make an income becomes a void of habitat. If you take this scenario and extrapolate it across the landscape, many farms are going in the opposite direction of being suitable for game populations. This is not a doom and gloom podcast, however one that will get people thinking that the goal doesn't need to be #limits or #taggedout to have a successful season.

If you have been pondering this or know a person who needs to hear this message, please share this podcast with them! Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Turkey Opener: Planning and Strategy Pt. 1 Apr 21, 2020

Anticipation is at an all-time high this week. Here in Missouri, the spring turkey season has now opened. This week's podcast is special as you will hear from two different groups of Land & Legacy hunters hitting the turkey woods. This Part 1 podcast is focused around the scouting, land management, and hunting strategy leading into the opener of turkey season.

One team will consist of Seth Harker, Trace Harker and Matt Dye, while in an adjoining county, Adam Keith and Chad Keith will be joining forces. This is no competition, however, just two farms that require two different strategies to not only scout effectively, but to also hunt. First, you will hear from Seth and Matt and how they plan to capitalize on consistent images from the Cuddelink system. However, despite several years of success from this location, a massive habitat management project just went underway. So this will surely plan into the setup and hunt. In contrast, Chad and Adam are hunting a cattle farm with tillable acres and large pastures. The turkey numbers are high, but the consistent changes of cattle, farmers harvesting, spraying, etc, may play into the strategy of the hunt.

Be sure to follow along with the social pages to see how both crews of hunters do during the opening days of turkey season 2020 here in Missouri. Next week, you will catch part 2, which will be the hopeful successful hunts! Stay tuned as we bring you the turkey hunting action. Enjoy. Learn. Share #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Future of Land Management - Wildlife CO-OPS Apr 14, 2020

As this crazy world we live in continues to evolve, so does conservation. With the continual increase of land values across the country, it is becoming more difficult for landowners to hold larger tracts of land devoted to wildlife and conservation. More and more we are seeing recreational focused properties decrease in size. With the decrease in the average size of land parcels, it is more difficult to have larger blocks or areas where habitat is very segmented. It is common to have pockets or good habitat and other areas where habitat is incredibly poor.

This week we talk with Hunter Pruitt who has recently completed his graduate studies on wildlife management CO-OPS and their impacts on habitat and wildlife. A CO-OP is simply a congregation of several landowners agreeing to work together for a common goal to support a wide range of conservation efforts. These can be formal or informal, however, the impact that these CO-OPS can have is substantial. Some CO-OPS are comprised of hundreds of acres while others are 30,000+ acres. We are talking about the potential of influencing counties and then regions as CO-OPS grow in size and popularity over time.

We forecast CO-OPS to become a large part of the way we all will be managing wildlife for the coming years. The potential to positively impact declining species such as the bobwhite quail or wild turkey or influence a region to produce a better age structure in the whitetail herd is huge! Please follow along and consider starting or joining a wildlife CO-OP in your area. Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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Youth Hunting - The Difference Between Boys and Girls Apr 14, 2020

It might be every dad's dream who grew up hunting to think of the day that he gets to introduce his kids to hunting. A passing of the torch, or a deep rooted heritage belief that this is what our family does. But, as many Dads will likely tell you, that's not always how it happens. During this recent Missouri Youth Turkey season, our good friend Seth Harker got the experience of the fun differences of taking a son and taking a daughter. With patience and humor Seth was able to have an exciting weekend with the kids chasing turkeys and learning life lessons.

How do you get your kids into the outdoors? It's a crucial part of teaching and raising our children to understand the importance of time outside but if you're planning on teaching them about hunting it may take multiple approaches to ensure your kids are hunters. Listen in as Seth discusses the differences he experienced with his kids and how he used food as a technique to teach his daughter the importance of hunting.

We also discuss the declining turkey numbers and how habitat improvement on his farm has allowed numbers to increase while surrounding farms continue to see declines. Why having tags doesn't always mean trying to fill all those tags. It's a great conversation about hunting tradition and ways to promote the future of hunting. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Let the Food Plot Planting Begin Apr 07, 2020

It's that time again when the food plot planting questions start all over. Food plot planting is just around the corner and we are ready for it, are you?

This week, we discuss the common food plot questions we receive as well as the most popular misunderstandings when it comes to planting food plot varieties. It seems as if people only want to plant a monoculture of soybeans for food during the summer and winter, however often times, that cannot occur due to over browsing, but year after year they repeat this same technique. In addition, we often see people from different regions trying to adopt techniques from regions to the north and make it apply to southern zones. This thought process is flawed and we discuss why and what the remedy is to this problem. If you live in the south, don't try to make it the north by the way you plant your food plots.

Be sure to take time to understand the forages you are planting. Make sure they make sense for your area, climate, and region! Checkout the different food plot blends on the store offered by Stratton Seed. Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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We Are Losing Quail Habitat at Alarming Rates Apr 07, 2020

On this week's podcast, Matt and Frank discuss the recent trends in bobwhite quail numbers. This podcast should wake you up! Not with excitement, but with a cause to care. Although quail are still found in decent numbers across some portions of their historic ranges, vast amounts of the range are quite each summer. There are no more whistles occurring. Pennsylvania has even considered the bobwhite quail extirpated from the state. Why is no one doing anything about this?

Land & Legacy is not going to sit back and watch a beloved icon of North America's game species dwindle into oblivion. Such little quail habitat remains across the landscape currently that if you do routinely see quail, you are most likely encountering an isolated population, dependent solely upon the habitat they persist within. Outside of these areas, the population you witness would cease to exist. It is time that hunters and conservationist step up to the plate and take a swing at bringing back bobwhite quail numbers.

Please, once you have listened to this podcast, hit share! Spread the awareness of the quickly declining quail habitat. Improving habitat is a must if we want these incredible and fragile critters to exist for our future generations. Enjoy.Learn.Share #ForLoveoftheLand

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You think CRP is Good? Just Wait! Mar 31, 2020

What does CRP mean to you? Do you think of dense tree plantings or a mix of warm-season grasses among a vast number of tillable acres? Did you know this program was initiated to reduce erosion and improve water quality? You can learn this and much more about the ways to improve CRP land for various wildlife species during this week's podcast.

The role that CRP has played over the years has drastically improved the number of acres available for upland bird species to reproduce. The wide variety of wildlife species that have benefited from this conservation program is long. However, despite all of these positives, we know that it can be improved. This week, we spend an hour discussing the details of CRP and how it can be greatly improved to offer more forage and cover. Areas dominated in grasses only provide cover, but no forage. There are a number of techniques that can be used like, dormant season discing, herbicide application, pollinator plantings, surrogate shrub placements, and even legume plantings to provide a remedy for this problem. These techniques will improve the reproduction rates of quail, pheasants, rabbits, and whitetail deer. If you want to see CRP come alive, check out this podcast! Be sure to share with someone who is looking to enroll in CRP this year.

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What Makes a Larger Impact? Managing Coyotes or Antlerless Deer Mar 31, 2020

Well, sit back and get ready for a debate. This week is full of science, hard data, and truth about managing for a bigger impact. Our goal here is to provide information that will allow landowners to accomplish their goals the quickest and to educate them along the way. So why not debate two hot topics and see which one science will reveal as the most impactful.

For years, hunters or deer managers have been trying to better understand the coyote and how they impact deer populations. Without a doubt, their presence impacts the species as some are certainly killed, but also pressure and alertness are impacted as well. What isn't often discussed is the pressure that too many antlerless deer within a herd will do, or a herd that is over the areas carrying capacity. Bucks and does are in direct competition for those resources, they both eat the same plants, they both choose the same or best cover to hide in. So they are in direct competition for the same resources. But when we look at the home ranges and effectiveness to impact populations, our time will be best served on managing the deer herd versus killing coyotes.

This discussion is sure to stir the pot, but take time to listen with an open mind. Share with those land managers who need to hear this news! Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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Don't Use Whitetail Deer As Your Habitat Meter Mar 24, 2020

During this week's podcast, we are self- quarantined in separate offices as we record but we keep bringing the heat on land management information. This spring has been a blur and we have many new and exciting projects that we have been working on across the country. We review a few quick highlights from recent consultations in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia.

In addition, we discuss why things such as age class, antler size, and quantity of deer may not be the best gauge for habitat improvements. Deer are generalist species, meaning they can persist in so many different habitats, climates, regions, and elevations. What if instead why used species richness of an area, like the number of different songbirds using the area after a timber harvest or perhaps the number of different plants growing in an area that was once a pasture. Deer are bi-products of quality habitat! If you create and increase usable space for deer, they will thrive, whereas other species may now simply have a chance to live. Don't let deer bum you out, look around when managing the land to see what else is benefiting from your work.

We hope you enjoyed this week's podcast, take time to get outside among the crazy world to improve some acres! Take a chainsaw, herbicide, or a drip torch, and use it wisely! Be safe and be sure to share your habitat improvement projects with us! Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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The Importance of Nesting Cover for Turkeys and Quail Mar 24, 2020

Recently we sat down with some of the top Wild Turkey Biologists in the country who are studying the decline of turkey populations through the South and Southeast. We're taking another look into some of the biggest factors causing unsuccessful nests when we chat with our very own Kyle Hedges.

You may have heard that Turkey and Quail can have multiple nests a year if the first one fails, but have you ever considered why it's important to try and create a landscape where the first nest is successful? What's the impact of snakes, raptors, and raccoons as the summer progresses? Once you understand the movement patterns of some of these predators you can then begin to manage accordingly.

Kyle and Adam will discuss a variety of topics and management techniques that you should be using to combat the all famous nest predators. Some techniques are very cost effective, very easy labor and can greatly increase your nest success. If you're managing for all wildlife don't miss this podcast! #FORLOVEOTHELAND

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Friends, Films, and Coffee with Nathaniel Maddux Mar 17, 2020

Over the course of building Land & Legacy, Nathaniel Maddux has seemed to stay in the shadows, despite his immense support in the mission. Nathaniel is the owner of Slate & Glass Productions which creates documentaries and films for brands and individuals looking to share their stories. Nathaniel and his wife also own Niangua Coffee, which is based out of SW Missouri.

To share this new adventure for Nathaniel and his wife, we invited him to join us on the podcast to discuss his life as a Christian, film-maker, and coffee connoisseur. Niangua Coffee is a brand built around the outdoor lifestyle with seasonal flavors such as Fly-Down Roast, Deer Camp, Blue Spring, and Black Water. There is a coffee flavor for every season, lights, dark, and medium.

Please take time to support our dear friend Nathaniel and Niangua Coffee! You will be seeing more with Nathaniel as the year goes on, as the video production increases for Land & Legacy!

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How To Increase Usable Space for Whitetail Deer Mar 17, 2020

If you missed the QDMA Whitetail Weekend, we give you a taste of what the seminars and educational opportunities are present at the event. Every year, we speak at this event to help educate people on how to increase the value of their property for whitetail deer. This year, we presented on the reasons and value of managing the natural resources for whitetail deer.

First, we define what usable space is for whitetail deer. What is required to keep deer on a property throughout the entire year? Then, we discuss how to create those resources from what the property and its vegetation have to offer. From here, we can then determine how big of an impact all of this work with give us! For our example in the podcast, we increased the value and forage production on the property by nine times and nothing was planted at all! We simply used what the property offered and drastically improved the offerings of this property.

Take a listen and let us know what you think. How will you be increasing the usable space on your property this year for whitetail deer or other species? Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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Non-Native Invasive Species Are Not Welcome! Mar 10, 2020

There is no room for non-native invasive species on the landscape. These species vary from region to region, but the presence of them is not welcome. Non-native species do not have their natural predators therefore, landowners have to become the predator of choice. It falls on your shoulders to eradicate or at the very least, keep them from spreading.

These species are rapidly invading the swamps, prairies, woodlots, forests, and fields across the country. The direction and speed at which they are invading is alarming. It is important to envision what the landscape will look like 20 years from now when no one addresses these species. We've seen fields being overtaken in a matter of few years by species like autumn olive, bush honeysuckle, multi-flora rose, Japanese honeysuckle and bradford pears.

Please take this podcast seriously and share with others who need to hear about the importance of managing non-native invasive species. If you are the owner of recreational land, you are responsible, stop playing the blame game and address the issue! Take that responsibility seriously! Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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Flush-Cut, Hinge-Cut, Hack-N-Squirt, When To Use Each Mar 10, 2020

Timber management is not a question of if you should implement it, but when. However, there are serious misconceptions as well as misunderstandings of techniques. This podcast is devoted to fuel the need and educate the audience on how to implement proper timber management techniques on your hunting property.

Landowners are plagued by analysis paralysis! They have often researched information too much and hear so many contradicting recommendations that they can not begin working on managing their property. We want this podcast to provide clarity to your situation. We want to clearly communicate the pros and cons of each timber management technique. Flush cutting, hinge-cutting, and hack-n-squirt are all tools in the tool-box, but we answer when they should be used and how they shouldn't be!

If you want to learn more about how to manage the timber on your property, listen and share with a friend who struggles from the same issue. Closed canopy timber is not helping the wildlife to the degree most people think, we need active management of this incredible natural resource.

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When Science and Optics Collide - “RLVNT” Mar 03, 2020

By now you know we are kinda nerdy when it comes to wildlife and facts about how they work and function. Well this week we take science and the function of how birds such as wild turkeys and waterfowl see! The light spectrum changes when you see through there eyes. Since this is the case, it begs the question, how do they see you?

This week, we sit down with Adam Winkleman, the owner of RLVNT. Adam's knowledge and experience lies within the optics industry, but his hunting passion lead him to address issue of concealment for hunters, especially bird hunters!

Checkout how RLVNT is providing solutions for hunters based on the UV light spectrum. This technology is incredible! Elevate your game with RLVNT.

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The Power of Native Plant Communities Mar 03, 2020

While in Nashville at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention, we caught up with Pure Air Native’s Justin Adams. He took time to sit down and review the power of native plants on the landscape.

The last few weeks we’ve have talked with biologists about the requirements for wild turkeys across the country. Some of the key components consist of early successional habitat, insects, and hard mast. To have each of these components on your property at the right time of the year both turkeys to persist, you need to have native plants and then be managing these native plant communities. There are no substitutes or short cuts for top of the line habitat. By managing for diverse Native plant communities on both public and private land the land, soil, water, air, and wildlife quality will improve!

Take time to learn about native plants, the role they play and how to best eradicate non native plants! It’s like picking up trash, nonnative plants are liter compared to the plant world! Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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Using Prescribed Fire to Restore Landscapes and Ecosystems Feb 25, 2020

This week, we sit down with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commissioner to discuss the direction of wildlife and landscape management in the state. We were encourage to hear of the direction this new commissioner was taking the department.

Arkansas is an extremely diverse state offering flooded bottomland, prairies, agriculture land, woodlands and savanna’s. This present both challenges and opportunities when managing the state and its wildlife. In our discussion, we really hit on prescribed fire and what the state will be doing to incorporate it more as well as educate landowners on how to use this wonderful tool!

We hope you sit back and enjoy learning about the state of Arkansas and it’s usage of prescribed fire! Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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What Hard Science Tells Us About Wild Turkey Populations Feb 25, 2020

Last week we spoke with the man who was in charge of the restocking efforts of the the wild turkey across North America. This week, we sit down with two biologists Mike Chamberlin and Brett Collier to discuss wild turkey numbers and why they are plateauing or even dropping.

Wild turkey reproduction is a complicated matter, but as we find out today, habitat and landscape usage is incredible important to annual reproductive success. Wild turkeys need specific habitat requires to nest and rear broods successfully. As both Mike and Brett confirm, diversity on the landscape is the necessary and driving factor for continued success of the wild turkey.

Take this information to heart and share with your fellow turkey hunters! We have to keep sharing solid information regarding true habitat management. Please share and enjoy a successful turkey hunt this spring.

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The History of Re-Stocking Wild Turkeys with James Earl Kennemar Feb 18, 2020

Ever wondered how wild turkey populations became available in your neck of the woods? You may need to take a moment and thank this week's guest, James Earl Kennamar. This gentleman was at the helm of conservation and re-stocking efforts with his long term position at NWTF. James Earl was the spearhead of re-stocking and expanding the turkey population beyond the native range.

During the podcast, we discuss the process and challenges James Earl faced throughout his career. Much of this can be boiled down to the lack of solid research as well as common misunderstandings of wild turkey ecology among the general public. Sit back and listen to the wonderful stories of growth and expansion of the wild turkey. James Earl is a conservationist and land manager at heart. He is welcome on this podcast anytime to discuss the usage and benefits of prescribed fire, logging, TSI, and early successional habitat.

We hope you enjoy this spring turkey season, but be sure to thank James Earl as that gobbler closes the distance. Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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Managing Right of Ways with NWTF's Steve Barlow Feb 18, 2020

During this podcast, we sit down with Steve Barlow of NWTF and associate Travis Rogers of Corteva. These two gentlemen represent large groups actively working to increase the conservation footprint around the country, but specifically within power line and gas right of ways. These clearings transect large blocks of timber and offer great opportunities for diversity.

In the country, over 14 million acres of right of ways exist. That is a huge resource that offers an incredible amount of land to positively impact game and nongame species. Currently, large land management companies are using mechanical means to keep the right of ways cleared. However, experience tells us that woody regeneration will come back in quickly. So Steve with NWTF and partners like Corteva are demonstrating that appropriate herbicide applications to control the woody resprouts will increase biodiversity on these 14 million acres. In essence, NWTF is putting early successional plant communities back on the landscape in a big way! The group is doing big things for game populations such as wild turkeys, bobwhite quail, golden wing warblers, and cottontail rabbits.

If you are not apart of the NWTF at this time, please take time to join this group that is putting serious habitat on the landscape. Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt by becoming a member of NWTF. Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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Introduction to Burr Oaks Bluff Feb 11, 2020

We want to officially welcome you to our latest project, Burr Oaks Bluff! This farm is about to get a major facelift. This week, we discuss this 288-acre farm in the Loess Hills of Western Iowa with the new owner Brenton Feucthenberger and his team.

Burr Oaks Bluff is a dynamic property with tillable acres, burr oak savanna to be restored, barren hillsides, native grasses, forbs, and shrubs. The property also has a beautiful pond situated among the Loess Hills. The plan for this property will be to take it from its current state and do a total rehabilitation of the landscape. Once that is done, the property will be offered again to a new owner to enjoy and create lasting memories with. This project will be full of updates as we see the transition unfold over the next few years.

The Burr Oaks Bluff property is utilizing the full gamut of Land & Legacy services. So we are thrilled to bring this to your attention. If you have any questions, please go to www.landandlegacy.tv and send us an email!

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"Renewing the Mind" of Hunters with Dr. Sanchez Feb 11, 2020

Sit back and prepare yourself to be challenged, encouraged, spiritually awakened, and educated. This week, we sit down with the renowned Dr. Sanchez who is a hunter, outdoorsmen, father, and a powerful man of God. For many years now, we have discussed the deep connection between our time in Creation and how that helps to repair us and lower stress. Finally, our guest has the science to prove it all!

We discuss in full detail how and why time in the outdoors is necessary to manage stress levels. Consistent exposure to nature can lower stress levels and heal our minds. However, this all comes with a balance of family time. This isn't an excuse to not be present at home or in the office. Dr. Sanchez discusses how a proper balance in your life of time outdoors will improve relationships and focus.

We hope that this podcast fuels you to look critically inside. There is no doubt that we all have a passion for the outdoors, but we must ask ourselves, do we have this in balance with the rest of our lives? If we are honest with ourselves, we likely don't. We encourage you to listen and then re-listen to this podcast. Enjoy.Learn.Share! #ForLoveoftheLand

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The Recipe for Producing Top Caliber Deer ANYWHERE Feb 04, 2020

The excuse of I don't live in Iowa or Kansas anymore doesn't work. Big deer can be produced anywhere across the country! No matter the state, the resources are present on the landscape, they just need to be managed in a way to produce the results you are looking for.

A developed age structure in a whitetail herd is difficult to come by in many portions of the country. The number of older bucks in the herd is simply less in states like West Virginia or North Carolina, but that does not mean that buck cannot get big in North Carolina or West Virginia. We are simply scratching the surface on how big deer can get and what states can produce superior caliber deer.

If you have any doubting friends, be sure to share this podcast with them. If you know anyone who feels limited by their area or state, share this podcast and start a co-op! Change the game and change the habitat in the process! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Addition by Subtraction - Land Management Edition Feb 04, 2020

This week we find ourselves in the great state of Iowa! the hunting heritage is strong here in the state. But to make the hunting better and to improve the land, it is important to understand the basic principle that you must subtract to add value.

Most farms we work do not have the existing habitat in place that you can simply begin to manipulate disturbances to improve habitat. First off, in most cases, things must be removed. This could be closed-canopy timber, cool-season non-native grasses, or even invasive species. Once these are removed or subtracted, then the fun of adding species can begin!

Land management does not always make sense when it comes to math, but when adding value to the landscape, it is often necessary to remove species before adding any! Thanks for listening, be sure to share this with a new follower this week! #ForLoveoftheLand

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Cookie Cutter Consulting - Why Historical Evidence is Important in Land Management Jan 28, 2020

When it comes to land and wildlife management there should be very little cookie cutter techniques. That's due to the ever changing landscape that we get to call home. There should be a change in your management from what ecosystem to the next or from one state to the next. The principles of replicating nature and using nature as our model are the same but our focus of plant communities and layout may change to support the local wildlife and their needs. That's why we don't follow any ratio or stats that claim each property should have Blank% of cover and blank% of food plots. Those ratios create a landscape with less diversity and less diversity is a loss for everyone.

Have you ever heard the claim that a certain amount of your food plots should be clover or 50% of your timber needs to be converted to young forest? We break those down and why you should be focused more on what the stressful period of the year is for the wildlife and how you can help the wildlife during that period of time. Because if you're in the south it's completely different than in the north and so our management must change.

During this podcast we also discuss the different types of thermal cover and how it varies from wildlife to location. We often forget about the use of thermal cover in the south and how we should manage for it just as much as land managers use thermal cover in the north. This podcast is loaded with deep thoughts on land management and what we often forget with habitat improvements. Next time you're considering the traditional method of land management consider looking at the landscape first and working to improve the land wants to be, rather than what you want it to be. #ForLoveoftheLand

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How To Make Your Property A Chick Factory Jan 28, 2020

This week is all about chicks, as in how to increase brood survivability on your property. Quail and wild turkeys can nest in many different locations and in varying types of vegetation with adequate success. So if they are nesting successfully to sustain a population why are numbers dropping?

In this podcast we address the most crucial timeframe for both quail and wild turkeys and what they need on the landscape. Once a turkey poult or a quail chick has hatched the average rate of survival is roughly 25%. This is a result in many cases of poor brood rearing habitat. Everyone forgets about how important weeds and flowering forbs are in the life cycle of young game birds. Upwards of 70% of their diet in the first weeks of life are protein rich insects. Without insects and the right habitat to support insects, they will not be recruited into the adult population. We also address the reasons behind wet springs and how that impacts nest success and brood rearing capabilities.

If you love to hunt birds and improve your land, this podcast is for you. Please share with the hunter or landowner in your life who is looking to improve wild game numbers on their property.

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Growing and Harvesting a Michigan Giant Whitetail Jan 20, 2020

Every state has the potential to grow top-caliber deer. In most areas, the natural resources are already present on the landscape to produce great habitat. However, it’s just in the wrong form. That is how we help assist landowners to shape the landscape on a way that improves the land but also produces results. This podcast walks you through that exact situation as Jason from Western Michigan tags a 163” whitetail on his home turf.

Despite the many challenges in getting deer to older age classes based on hunter densities across the state and liberal bag limits, it can be done! Adequate cover and security is the key to making this happen. During the podcast we discuss how a logging operation, invasive species removal, prescribed fire, edge feathering, and patience paid off.

If you are interested in learning how to manage the landscape and hold big deer on your property, this is the podcast for you! Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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The Pitfalls of Managing for Big Bucks Only Jan 20, 2020

Being our on the road a lot during this time of the year, we begin to see many different habitat types that are struggling and begging to be managed in a better way. During this weeks podcast, we discuss the recent observations from the field. We cover states like Illinois, Indiana, West Virginia, and Ohio.
In addition, we pose the question, what if we only managed for big bucks. What would the landscape look like, what would be the priorities of our time when on the property? How would this affect the overall health of the property? Would the land increase in diversity or would it diminish as we begin to fear working the land?

We answer all these questions and continue to support why managing for diversity and managing for plant communities rather than for specific plants is far more rewarding and healthier for the land. We hope you enjoy and share with someone new this week! Enjoy. Learn. Share!

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Observations from Across the Whitetail's Range Jan 14, 2020

On this week's podcast, we discuss our recent observations traveling from Kansas to West Virginia. We saw farming landscapes, bottomland, CRP, and thousands of timbered acres. These observations will help you to look critically at your property so you can influence it greater making it more attractive for wildlife.

First and foremost, improving and restoring the landscape is important. Wildlife need a home, not an insufficient place to simply survive. We are looking for all wildlife to thrive, this can only happen when each acre is addressed! Despite the landscape changing in appearance and land use from the recent states we visited, deer still were present, but just because a species is present, does not mean it is thriving. Thriving habitat and wildlife means diversity of species that occupy the 3 to 6 ft. range is present.

As we cover more properties in the next few weeks, be sure to follow along and learn through the eyes of Land & Legacy. We will teach you how to examine, critique, and improve the land. Enjoy.Share.Learn. #ForLoveoftheLand

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How to Shrink a Deer's Home Range Jan 14, 2020

Trying to keep a mature deer on your farm for as many days as possible is a goal many hunters try to obtain. Others wish to lower the amount of deer they find dead from "winter kill" or from predators. Landowners also find themselves in a stand still and what else to do to improve their farm. All these scenarios or problems can be solved with the technique we call "fragmenting the farm."

We we start out looking over an aerial image we try to coordinate different habitat features or plant communities and look at their arrangement on the land. So many times we will find vast acres of one habitat feature. That could be large amounts of mature timber or overgrazed pasture with no shrubs around. There are many types of food resources and types of cover that deer and many other game species use in a year that it's easy to overlook some of them. We take a look at a simple technique to add diversity to your farm.

Fragmenting your farm will add more year round benefits to create a property that provides benefits from January to December for not just deer but small game too! Our goal at Land & Legacy is to make your farm better than you found it and by fragmenting the habitat features you will create a landscape conducive of growing plenty of game and a healthy ecosystem. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Must Kill Management - Finding True Land Management Jan 07, 2020

Have you ever heard a deer hunter speak about needing to kill more coyotes and a few months later complain about having too many deer? Or better yet a self proclaimed conservationists complain about native weeds taking over his non-native food plot? One that hurts the most is the process of taking a highly diverse, highly beneficial grassland or old field and plant it in a monoculture food plot. SO many problems here that can be solved with a little deep thinking.

Must Kill Management is a huge problem arising in deer management across the country. A hunter loses focus on drastic complexity of the land and focuses solely on deer. When a single species becomes the focus many other will suffer, and some animals have suffered long enough.

We discuss some of the worst practices we find with "Must Kill Management" with this podcast. Remember, just because it's management doesn't make it good! This podcast is meant to open our minds and create positive thinking to look at the land in a new light that lowers stress and creates a more enjoyable time spent afield. #ForLoveoftheLand

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Tricking Out a Kansas Farm Jan 07, 2020

On this week's podcast, Matt, Kyle, and Frank breakdown the steps it is going to take to convert an under-utilized farm in Kansas into a dynamic wildlife rich property. Currently, these parcels have several key elements to attract, hold and harvest various wildlife game species.

On the podcast, we cover topics such as CRP buffers, managing nesting/brood rearing cover for quail, creating corridors for wildlife, timber stand improvements, cattle and grazing contract management, cover crops, soil improvements, water quality, covey headquarter establishment, cedar removal, prescribed fire, and much more. All of these elements with the appropriate layout will turn what appears to be game rich lands into actual dynamic, functional, and income-producing properties. Not every property in Kansas can produce giant deer, however, executing this habitat plan will get them well on their way!

Be sure to share this podcast with those who can benefit from maximizing and managing the resources on their lands. Thanks for listening! Enjoy.Learn.Share!

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Edge Feathering - The Lost Habitat Management Tool Jan 07, 2020

Edge Feathering has been lost in the weeds for sometime now but it's time you should bring it back. When we look for habitat or land management tools we usually go with the new fad or silver bullet. Hinge cutting has been on the scene for a couple of years now with major publicity, but what if we told you that edge feathering can provide more benefits to more species of animals?

You might now believe that statement but let us break down all the benefits of edge feathering for you in the podcast to make you a believer. When we discuss the drastic difference between a person managing for quail and a person managing for deer it comes to no shock that edge feathering is a big part of quail management. Quail management requires a much more intense management plan. A good deer hunting farm doesn't mean great quail hunting, but a great quail hunting farm likely means a great deer hunting farm. We can learn a lot from quail management and if they have a tool to use that's beneficial deer hunters should listen up!

We break down how we edge feather, when we do it, and the year round benefits it provides during this podcast. Be careful after listening you will likely want to fire up the chainsaw and get to work! The lost art of feathering the edge is coming back and you don't want to miss out on this awesome habitat management tool! #ForLoveoftheLand

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