Scouting for Deer & Invasives - Boscobel Bluffs State Natural Area

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Learn to scout for deer AND manage invasive species, all in one morning...
 

Mississippi Valley Conservancy and the National Deer Association (NDA) invite landowners, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts to a unique and educational Linked to the Land event at the Conservancy’s Boscobel Bluffs State Natural Area property. This immersive Field to Fork field day will take place on Saturday, September 6 from 9:00 a.m. until noon, and offers a hands-on experience that blends the skills of ethical deer scouting with the practicalities of invasive species management.

The event includes a 3–4 hour guided hike through a stunning conservation property and is designed for participants of all experience levels—especially those from non-hunting backgrounds who want to learn more about sourcing their own sustainable food and being active stewards of the land.

Led by Levi Plath, Land Manager for Mississippi Valley Conservancy, and Brock Rosenkranz, Wisconsin Field to Fork Coordinator for the NDA, this interactive hike will focus on:
•    Scouting whitetail deer: identifying bedding areas, food sources, and travel corridors
•    Spotting invasive species that reduce habitat quality
•    Understanding the connection between habitat health and hunting success
A surprise guest expert, with decades of experience in both deer hunting and invasive species control, will also be on hand to share stories and strategies from the field.

Invasive plants like buckthorn, honeysuckle, and garlic mustard may seem harmless at first glance, but they significantly reduce the biodiversity that supports deer and other wildlife. They alter food availability, limit travel corridors, and outcompete native plants that form the foundation of a healthy ecosystem. Managing these species isn't just good conservation—it’s critical for long-term hunting success.

This event is part of the NDA’s Field to Fork initiative—a food-focused hunter recruitment program aimed at adults from non-hunting backgrounds. The program offers a welcoming, educational approach to learning about ethical hunting, sustainable food sourcing, and land stewardship. Whether you're hoping to harvest your first deer or deepen your relationship with the land, this program is designed to support your journey.

Advance registration is required for this free event by September 2. This special event is part of Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s 2025 Linked to the Land series, supported by Olson Solar Energy and WXOW News 19. 

                                    Map showing location on east side of Boscobel                                                                      Close-up of turn-off

Event Overview:

An interactive field day focused on:

• Scouting for whitetail deer
• Identifying invasive species
• Understanding how these affect deer habitat
• Learning how to positively impact hunting and recreation areas

Hike Details:

• Length: 3–4 hours
• Location: Boscobel Bluffs property

Instructors:

• Levi Plath – Land Manager, Mississippi Valley Conservancy
• Brock Rosenkranz – Wisconsin Field to Fork Coordinator, National Deer Association
• A special guest expert in deer hunting and invasive species

About Field to Fork:

• A food-focused hunter recruitment program by the National Deer Association
• Designed for adults from non-hunting backgrounds
• Teaches participants how to source their own protein and understand the environment

Topics covered:

• Bedding areas
• Food sources
• Travel corridors
• Invasive species identification
• Management strategies for invasives

What to bring and wear:

• Print out the property brochure and map ahead of time to be sure you know where to go.
• Wear long pants, good walking shoes or hiking boots, and consider spraying your shoes and pants for ticks ahead of time.
• There is a moderate incline, so if you like using a walking stick, feel free to bring it along.

We will meet at 8:45 a.m. at the entrance to the location on the day of the event. ANY UPDATES OR CANCELATIONS WILL SENT BY EMAIL THE DAY BEFORE OR OF THE EVENT. Please check your email before you get in the car to come to the event in case of changes.

Please register by September 2nd so we can plan for the event.

Just a reminder that NO DOGS ARE ALLOWED on the Conservancy's nature preserves in order to protect the wildlife that calls it home.

(Photo: Whitetail deer by Allen Blake Sheldon)