This program was started by KFWA in 1989. Members maintain their own mineral supplement sites individually, we simply supply the mineral to them. The formula was developed by Penn State Deer Research Facility, and consists of salts (attractant), calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, D, and E, and other trace minerals in a granular form.
Three factors control antler development: age, genetics, and nutrition. Sportsmen can have an effect on the age factor by passing up 1-1/2 year-old, small-racked bucks, giving them a chance to survive another year (although this is easier said than done!).
The lack of protein available explains the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) area's smaller deer (compared to the corn-fed deer living in the farmlands of southern PA). Sportsmen can also boost nutrition and improve genetics by supplementing vitamins and minerals to both bucks and does. Healthier bucks grow bigger racks, and healthier does produce healthier fawns—it’s that simple.
When choosing a location to supplement minerals, scout thoroughly to find a feeding area or a trail leading to one. Trails can be broken down into two main categories: those leading to a food source and those leading away from food. If we examine our own habits, we can compare them to the habits of deer. When we wake up and head for the kitchen, it is usually by the same path. Thus, the more distinct trails found in the woods lead from bedding areas to feeding areas. When we leave the kitchen, different routes (lesser used trails) are taken, depending on our schedule.
In late March or early April, dump about half a bag of mineral on an old stump along a main trail or in a feeding area; the deer will start using it almost at once. Dump the rest out in mid-summer, or sooner if the mineral is gone, or has leached into the soil. Keep in mind, during hunting season this is considered as bait by the Pennsylvania Game Commission!
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Last updated 11/05/03