It’s that time of year once again, where we see the fruits of our labor. Our fawns are weaned and does are ready for breeding. Our bucks are big, beautiful, hard horned, and now dangerous to each other and ourselves. Those that have not already been sold as stockers should have their temperament greatly improved or their antlers removed. In this issue you will read an article, To Cut or Not To Cut, and make your own opinion.
It’s also that time of year when deer farmers’ plans for the future are put into action. You can’t change or improve the genetics standing on your farm unless you buy different deer, embryos, or semen. Regardless if you intend to Al or live breed, try to relax, take a deep breath, and remember it’s in God’s hands.
In part 7 of the series, The Truth About CWD, you will read about the second case of CWD being confirmed in Florida and part of my discussion with Steve Padgett who owns a preserve in the “quarantine zone”. I was only too happy to send him all the information I could about CWD so that he was fully prepared for a meeting with FWC.
This year’s Summer Picnic held at the Austin Carey Learning Center was again a huge success. SETDA’s primary goal for the event as always was to help educate deer farmers., and boy did we. Thanks to the help of Dr. Diane Kitchens with FDACS, Ken Holmes with FWC, and the incredible team from CHeRI. The great folks at CHeRI were kind and allowed me to use their data and slides for a presentation that I gave at Pennsylvania’s Deer Fundraising Auction in September. I was asked to be a speaker and help educate our northern friends about hemorrhagic diseases. The timing was unfortunately a few months too late as many states were being ravished by EHD and BTV with heartbreaking losses.
Our Spring Fling Fundraising Auction will once again be held at the Double Tree Hilton by the Orlando airport. You will find information about it, including room discounts, and how you and others can market your deer and products. Members from SETDA’s board of directors will be reaching out to assist you with this and ask for your support. We look forward to seeing everyone there.
Let me introduce you to the newest members of SETDA’s BOD:
Michael “Andrew” Owens, with Whitetail Country Plantation in Live Oak, Florida
Blaine Flynn, with Flynn Farms in Milton, Florida
As always, myself, and your board are here to serve you. Please reach out with any questions or concerns. We will be having announcing the date of the annual meeting to be held prior to January 15th to elect new board members whose term is expiring. Voting members should look forward to receiving a ballot to either be sent by mail or electronically after January 1st. Those interested in being on the board of directors, will find the application form inside, which must be turned in before the ballots are sent out.
I want to wish everyone in advance, a Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!
As always, stay Florida Strong and Safe,
Sincerely,
Dr. Bill Leffler