MADISON – Those interested in managing their land for deer and other wildlife are encouraged to join Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources staff Sept. 22 at noon for a Deer Management Assistance Program live chat.

To participate or view past chats, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keyword “chat.”

DMAP provides habitat and herd management assistance to private landowners and public land managers interested in improving habitat conditions for deer and other wildlife. Three enrollment levels are available, depending on the size of the property. All enrollees receive technical advice from wildlife professionals, access to habitat improvement resources and program updates and invitations to DMAP workshops.

Positive feedback from DMAP cooperators fuels continued growth

In DMAP’s first year, the department accepted 114 applications and worked with nearly 300 landowners. In 2015, an additional 248 applications were received, and the department is currently working with over 700 landowners on nearly 88,000 acres of land.

Earlier this year, DMAP cooperators were given the opportunity to attend one of four workshops featuring DNR staff. Here, they could ask questions and see which management practices may be a good option on their property. Close to 80 landowners attended, including Aaron Bigalke. “It was a fantastic opportunity full of great information for landowners,” said Bigalke.

DNR DMAP coordinator Bob Nacks leads a discussion at a DMAP workshop on a cooperator’s property in central Wisconsin. WDNR Photo

A department survey of nearly 300 enrollees in 2014 found that 93 percent were satisfied with the program, and 77 percent intended to implement most or all of the habitat improvement recommendations listed in their management plan. Many current cooperators have stated that they would recommend DMAP to other landowners, and enjoy the informational resources provided to them through their online MyDMAP account.

For more information regarding DMAP or to complete an application, search keyword “DMAP.”