Department of Natural Resources

[Palmer]

Here's some info I came across.  I wonder if the DNR thinks of planting trees and bushes for the deer population and other big game.  In alot of areas I only see fir trees.  I wish I'd see more oaks, mulberries, pines, and fruit trees.  When I'm on DNR property it looks like they were looking out for the birds.

"The United States government passed a law, the Pittman-Robertson Act in 1937, to protect wildlife resources that collects an excise tax of 11% of the cost to buy any firearms, guns, or ammunition. This 11% excise tax is sent to the Department of Natural Resources of each State to protect the wildlife habitat and food plots. Over two billion dollars of funding to preserve wildlife habitat has financed wildlife welfare since 1937."[/font][/font]

[robb92]

Some of it would depend on what type of trees will grow in that enviroment. Why would you waste money to plant trees that you know will not grow in that enviroment. I would like to see more pine trees where I live but all we have is oak, walnut or maple, very few pines, and that makes it a pain in the butt during hunting season because of the leaves. 

[billythekidrock]

Don't quote me, but I am pretty sure that the PR act sends money to our F&G. Not all states have a F&G to manage wildlife.

As for tree plantings...it is all about the money.

[Dman]

 I used to volunteer for some of those projects and I work with some DNR folks. The plant selection almost always has to do with what was native to that area, for example; Mulberry if not present prior to planting likely would not be on the planting list. I agree with you though, more thought towards wildlife could be given in some areas. Most KCDNR land cater's to hiker's, bird watcher's, etc., so they tend to plant a lot of larger, aesthetic and berry producing stuff like elderberry, Osier Dogwood, Snowberry, Spruce and Vine Maple. If they really wanted to help out the ungulates, they'd be planting more; Trailing Blackberry, Thimble/Salmon Berry and overseeding with clovers, wild wheat, etc..