Hunter Welcome & Introduction

Thank you for your interest and participation in the Quality Deer Management Program at West Branch Forest. The 2010-2011 Deer Season is upon us and DMAP coupons are still available. Similar to years past, DMAP coupons are allocated to interested hunters on a first come, first served basis. If you're interested in obtaining an antlerless coupon(s) or would like general hunting information for The Nature Conservancy's West Branch property please email meckley@tnc.org or call 570-220-6097.

HARVEST GOAL: 25 Deer (20 Does : 5 Bucks)

Similar to last year, our objective for 2010 is to harvest 25 deer across the entire property (4.75 square miles), with hopes of removing 20 antlerless deer and 5 bucks. We realize that this harvest rate will not adequately reduce the overwintering deer densities to a scientifically desirable level, however we believe it is a step in the right direction, especially if we can maintain or even slowly increase this harvest rate over the next decade. As a result, it is anticipated that habitat conditions will greatly improve. If we can consistently harvest an adequate number of deer each year to reduce deer browse impacts, TNC will continue to implement a wide array of planned forestry operations and activities to stimulate the development and advancement of a new forest. Similar to the Quality Deer Management Association, our values are to bring existing white-tailed deer populations into balance with their habitat and promote quality over quantity until the habitat can support higher deer densities.

2009 Harvest Summary: 16 Deer (8 Does : 8 Bucks)

2008 Harvest Summary: 18 Deer (12 Does : 6 Bucks)

The Nature Conservancy would like to thank all participating DMAP hunters who spend time afield at West Branch in pursuit of white-tailed deer. Local hunters play a key role in helping us to balance our forest and wildlife management objectives.

Good luck this 2010 hunting season - hunt hard and hunt safe!


Monday, July 27, 2009

Prowl the Sproul Weekend includes hike at West Branch Forest


The abnormal summer weather patterns that we have experienced this year remind me of those typically experienced in Northern New England. The cooler temperatures have been embraced by many and are saving people money from not having to kick on their air conditioning units. As budgets remain tight with the current economy, an increased number of Pennsylvanian’s are rekindling their relationships with local, outdoor oriented vacations and activities. Fishing license sales are up and so too are the numbers of people taking advantage of the 2.1 million acres of state forest land across the state. The 6th Annual Prowl the Sproul weekend recently took place (July 17-19) and was headquartered at the local Western Clinton Sportsman’s Association. The event, sponsored by the Keystone Trails Association and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources proved to be enticing. Eighteen people turned out to participate in a moderate intensity, 5 mile hike across portions of The Nature Conservancy’s West Branch Research and Demonstration Forest. The hike was crafted to give participants the opportunity to see and hear first hand about the Conservancy’s forest restoration strategies which included the American chestnut orchard, the tree shelter study, the various forest management activities and a glimpse into the CCC built Whetham Cabin along the remains of its associated fire tower. Although the overcast and rainy weather helped to fend off the presence of annoying insects and the potential for encountering ornery timber rattlers, it wasn’t conducive to experiencing the true majestic beauty of the three spectacular viewpoints that were originally incorporated into the tour. The hike did include passage by the Dark Hollow and Breezy Hill camp. Many hikers expressed interest in the history of the local hunting camps and enjoyed seeing the different styles and craftsmanship that went into building the camps, outhouses, woodsheds, and so on. Special thanks to the member of the Dark Hollow camp for mowing their lane, as that made the water logged hike just a little more comfortable. For more information on Prowl the Sproul refer to the Keystone Trails Assocation website at http://www.kta-hike.org/
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