A group of about 60 dedicated individuals graduated from the QDMA Deer Steward 1 course held at the extraordinary Pine Mountain Lodge at Callaway Gardens, Georgia.
This intensive three day seminar was packed with cutting edge information in quality deer management techniques. recent recipient of the Budweiser Conservationist of 2011 Joe Hamilton, Director of Education & Outreach, Southern Region started off the weekend talking about Aldo Leopold who was the the original leader in conservation.
Texas is the formal birthplace of QDM. Beginning in the late 1960s, wildlife biologists Al Brothers and Murphy Ray Jr. began formalizing their novel ideas on deer management.
QDMA’s mission is to promote sustainable, high-quality white-tailed deer populations, wildlife habitats, and ethical hunting experiences through education, research, and management in partnership with hunters, landowners, natural resource professionals, and the public.
Qualified experts in wildlife ecology, forest management and deer science our instructors Joe Hamilton, Dr. Karl Miller, John Grunchy, Kip Adams, Brian Murphy and Matt Ross all presented seminars over the two days of classroom.
The staff of Calloway Gardens ensured every one’s room were with out doubt a five star experience as were the meals. I know extra time on the treadmill will be required.
Purina sponsored Sundays evening dinner and some great products for use this spring out in the field.
On the last day a field trip to Jeff Foxworthy’s Farm “The Beloved” highlighted the weekend. A longtime supporter and QDM member arranged to have us tour this wonderful property.
Thanks to Lindsay Thomas for the group photo of the QDM staff & new DS1 graduates.
The dedicated staff hard work displayed what could be accomplished when QDM practices are followed. On going progress in timber management and cover continue to improve the 3000 acres farm.
Thanks to the QDMA staff, Pine Mountain Calloway Lodge Staff and Jeff Foxworthy and his great team for a great experience in quality deer management techniques.
