May 2024 • Nebraskaland 45
what wildlife species may be causing damage, location of
damage and timing of damage," he said. "The more options a
landowner is open to, the more eff ective we can be at helping
them reach their goal of tolerable damage."
One way landowners can limit depredation is to implement
an "earn-a-buck" program on their property, Schelbitzki said.
That is, require hunters to harvest a doe or two before taking
a buck.
Providing access during all hunting seasons is another way,
and landowners can even earn money by doing so through
the Open Fields and Waters program. Communicating with
neighbors to achieve a common goal also is benefi cial.
"After being contacted by a landowner, we try to always
meet up on site to look at the damage to make the best
possible recommendations," Schelbitzki said. "This is
important because every situation is diff erent and some
depredation options may not be as eff ective as others."
Game and Parks also sometimes employs hazing devices,
such as propane cannons and pyrotechnics, and exclusion
tactics such as fencing and stack yards.
Damage control permits usually allow the harvest of only
does, which make the most impact on population. If a permit
does allow bucks, the antlers must be turned into Game and
Parks. No money changes hands during the process and meat
from harvested animals must be utilized.
"These aren't trophy hunters by any means," Schott said.
"They're in it for the meat."
He said deer management during the summer is viewed as
a chore, not recreation.
"If you (get put on the list, but later) can't or don't
participate, there usually isn't a second round," Schott said.
"When given a chance to help control the deer population,
we need results."
The approach is working. Instead of observing herds of 50
on and near the family property as before the permits were
issued, Schott sees them numbering about half that. He no
longer sees the extensive crop damage of the past, where
deer had made it appear as if a herd of cattle had been turned
loose in the corn.
"We've seen that (damage) dramatically cut back," he said.
Less damage to the crops, and less chance of his vehicle
colliding with a deer during his nightly drive into Silver
Creek.
"I don't want one on my bumper. I'd rather have it on my
plate," Schott said.
To learn more about the Game and Parks' programs to
assist landowners experiencing problems with wildlife
species, visit outdoornebraska.gov/depredation or contact
a Game and Parks district offi ce in Alliance, North Platte,
Lincoln or Norfolk.
N
White-tailed deer feed in a Sarpy County cornfi eld. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
