During tough winters, hungry deer often eat hay and other stored livestock feed. South Dakota State University researchers are currently exploring fall cover crops that will attract deer and provide nutrient-rich winter forage. Preliminary results show that turnips and radishes are the top two choices followed by peas.
The research project is in its final year and focuses on eastern South Dakota. It’s funded by a three-year grant from the Federal Aid to Wildlife Restoration, administered by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks.
Jonathan Jenks is SDSU Department of Natural Resource Management Distinguished Professor and Kevin Robling is big game biologist for the state Game, Fish and Parks. They joined Dakota Midday and discussed the study.