WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST?
USDA Biologist–Tom Rawinski–once stated at the “Growing Deer Debate Conference” years back that if native plants are “given an equal playing field” in regards to deer browse, they will outcompete non-native and interfering plants. This deer exclosure installed jointly by NY Forest Owners Association & CFA on a CFA member’s property several years back demonstrates Tom’s claim. Inside are maple, elderberry, hickory, and oak. Outside the fence only plants that deer don’t like to eat, grow–Japanese barberry, NY fern, etc. The contrast is amazing.
Ryan Trapani
Director of Forest Services
Catskill Forest Association