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!


Thursday, July 29, 2010


For the second year in a row, the Conservancy’s West Branch Research and Demonstration Forest was included in the Annual Prowl the Sproul hiking weekend. In its 7th consecutive year, the Prowl the Sproul continues to draw people from all over the state to participate in a series of guided hikes. The three day event occurred this year on July 16th – the 18th. Headquartered at the West Clinton Sportsman’s Association along State Route 120, registrants can take advantage of the club’s facilities, overnight camping spots, and outdoor grilling. The “Sproul” contains some of the most rugged and remote forestland in Pennsylvania. The Conservancy’s West Branch Forest hike was led by Conservancy Forester, Mike Eckley. Thirteen hikers enjoyed the designated 5 mile loop that covered the central portion of the 3,000 acre property. Multiple scenic viewpoints were visited along with traversing historic logging trails. The highlight was a unique encounter with two, relatively large, yellow-phased timber rattlesnakes that appeared to be mating. Upon further analysis of video footage by local wildlife biologists, this observation was determined to be two adult male rattlers fighting for territory or breeding rights. If interested in participating in Prowl the Sproul next summer, visit the Keystone Trails Association website for information http://www.kta-hike.org/
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