Florida Spring 2024 by DandKDesign

SOUTHEAST TINES Spring 2024 l Volume 12 l Issue 1

ROCKY RIDGE WHITETAILS FOCUSED ON CWD RESISTANCE AND QUALITY BREEDING Sponsored by Rocky Ridge Whitetails

SAFARI CLUB INTERNATIONAL HELPING TO CREATE BENCHMARKS FOR DEER FARMERS SPONSORED BY UDFOM

THE NORTH AMERICAN DEER REGISTRY (NADR)

MORE SERVICES AND INNOVATION FOR BREEDING AND MANAGING DEER Sponsored by iwda

Big Guns

BARR NONE / REMEDY(MAXBO XL SON) / NEWBIE / PEBBLES SIS NADR # 32030

SEE ADS INSIDE

CONTENTS

FEATURED ARTICLES: 2024 NADeFA in Springfield, Illinois Promises Lasting Memories and Good Times..................................................................37 Insecticides in the Enviornment........................................................................18 Rocky Ridge Whitetails - Focused on CWD Resistance and Quality Breeding................................................................................... 16, 17 Safari Club International – Helping to Create Benchmarks for Deer Farmers.......................................................................................................32 The North American Deer Registry (NADR) Offering More Services and Innovation for Breeding and Managing Deer..........................................20

SETDA INFORMATION: BOD Application............................................................................................54 Common CWD Questions - Answered.......................................... 43, 44, 46 Featured Farm - Legacy Ranch..............................................................10, 11 My Most Memorable Hunt.....................................................................24, 25 Questions for FL Ag Commissioner Wilton Simpson................................13 Remember the “ Mission”............................................................................26 SPRING FLING - Event Information...............................................................4 Vice President’s Message...............................................................................6

Spring Deadline May 1st

GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PUBLISHING Kathy Giesen, Editor/Publisher 305 E. 350 N., Ivins, UT 84738 deerassociations@gmail.com 435-817-0150 • Fax: 435-359-5333

Website: deersites.com (Editorial Provided by Contributing Writers)

IN EACH ISSUE Advertising Information............................................................. 56 Membership Application ........................................................... 50 Quarterly Calendar....................................................................... 8 SeTDA Business Cards................................................................ 38 SeTDA BOD.................................................................................... 2

ADVERTISERS INDEX Bella Mia Ranch................................................ 5 Blessed Bayou................................................ 12 Blosser Whitetails.......................................... 35 Blue Creek Whitetails.................................... 53 C&E BioSolutions........................................... 48 Cervid Central Market Place......................... 14 Cervidae Health Research Initiative............. 19 Cervid Solutions, LLC..................................... 51 Clay Kuntry Whitetails................................... 38 Crescent Ranch.............................................. 40 CuddliEZ.......................................................... 36 Dan-Inject North America............................. 31 Droptine Studios............................................ 33 EZid, LLC.......................................................... 52 Fox Valley Animal Nutrition, Inc..................... 7 Head Gear, LLC............................................... 30 Hilty Whitetails.....................Inside Back Cover Jo Jo’s Whitetails............................................. 27

MaxRax Performance Nutrition................... 48 NADEFA........................................................... 36 NexGen Animal Health.................................. 41 North American Deer Registry..................... 21 Osceola Whitetails.................... Center Spread Pine Creek Deer Farm................................... 49 Pneu-Dart........................................................ 55 Prime Acres Whitetails.................................. 47 Purina.............................................................. 22 Rocking JE Whitetails.......Cover, 3, Back Cover Springfield Whitetails.................................... 15 Storm’s End Whitetails.................................. 23 Straight Shooter Game Fencing................... 21 Stubbs Whitetails........................................... 42 Tajada Whitetail Ranch.................................. 39 The Swamp Whitetails....... Inside Front Cover Trophy Whitetail Deer, Inc............................ 34 Walnut Ridge Whitetails.................................. 9 Woodard Whitetails....................................... 45

BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

DIRECTORS

James “Smitty” Smith Gum Creek Hunting Preserve 813-714-5045 Jsmith@crossenv.com www.GumCreekHuntingPreserve.com

Benny Wilkison Lil Oak Whitetails 3193 NW 216th St Lawtey, Fl 904-424-7233 liloakwhitetails@yahoo.com

VICE PRESIDENT

Mike Hunter MS Hunter Farm 8479 Puckett Rd Perry, FL 32348 850-843-0881 Mike.Hunter@etranscarriers.com

Dr. Bill Leffler 2 Base Down Farms PO Box 159 Morriston, FL 32668 561-373-2353 Bleffler2011@gmail.com Twobasedownfarms@yahoo.com

TREASURER

Dr. Juan Campos College of Veterinary Medicine Dept. of Large Animal Clinical Sciences University of Florida 108 Deriso Hall, Gainesville, FL 32610 352-363-0703 jmcampos@ufl.edu

Louis Scott Scott’s Game Farm 96769 O’Neil Scott Road Fernandina Beach, FL 32097 904-557-8940, 904-753-4091 Tim Cromwell 18015 NE CR 1471 Hampton, FL 32044 352-727-9528

Mike Vizcaino Osceola Whitetails 149 Sand Lake Dr Pomona Park, Fl 32181 904-814-7214 Mvizcain@bellsouth.net

Watch for These Sybols

- these are interactive links in the eBook that is sent out to all members This symbol indicates there is a video linked

This symbol indicates there is a link to an email, website, or facebook page

Ryan Boyd Legacy Ranch 3000 NW 28th Trail Jennings, FL 32053 904-874-4537 ryan@quick-catch.com Ryan Stubbs Stubbs Whitetails 16518 Alderman Turner Rd. Wimauma, FL 33598 (813) 924-1136 Stubbswhitetails.com

Don’t Miss Out! This years Spring Fling will have Florida Ag Comissioner, Wilton Simpson, as a guest speaker. And Keith Warren will be filming a new episode - “The Truth About CWD”.

Vice President’s Message from Dr. Bill Leffler Welcome One and All Winter is now behind us and 2024 is looking brighter than ever. As deer farmers it’s a time to kick back and relax and watch our deer get big and fat again. Our does are bred, our breeder bucks’ job is finished as they now rejoin younger bucks to put on weight and get ready to begin growing antlers, and our fawns are quickly growing and developing. By now our children and other kids are looking forward to Spring break, and what better place to bring them than Orlando. Come and spend a day or two at this year’s SETDA SPRING FLING Auction, March 15-16th at the Double Tree Hilton by the airport. The Fl Ag Commissioner, Wilton Simpson, will be speaking Friday and updating us about the status of CWD in Florida and answering some of the questions you’ve submitted. I was overwhelmed with the hundreds of questions that I received from Florida land owners and deer farmers for Mr. Simpson. There were far too many for him to be able to answer in such a limited time while he is with us. Therefore, I will attempt to address as many as possible in this issue and upcoming issues. When it comes to CWD, there seems to be more questions than answers and is still very misunderstood. Unfortunately, some are still trying to sensationalize “Zombie” deer as can be seen on social media. Those antics help no one. Keith Warren will be filming at this year’s event. The topic of his show, The Truth About CWD. All costs for the production being paid for by the Southeast Trophy Deer Association. It’s our combined effort to inform and educate the public as well. It will be broadcast on YouTube’s Deer Farming Channel and on the Pursuit Channel through December 2025. It is always important to “Remember the Mission” when dealing with Federal and State agencies, including the FWC ( article in this issue). Florida’s response plan, for farms, in the CWD management zone, as currently stated, FDACS will “ seek approval of captive cervid owners .... to identify, remove, and test any sick or dead cervids”. We are very fortunate, that everything in the Response Plan talks about “owner’s choice to depopulate and test”. Owners can refuse to depopulate and test AND they can still sell deer and hunts (with restrictions). This year’s Spring Fling looks to be bigger and better than ever. We have received donations from across the country, representing some of the best deer and products in the industry. The Board and I, want to thank all of our sponsors, advertisers, consignors, and donors. We ask you to remember that as well, because without their support events like this are not possible. Please keep our President, Smitty and his family in your prayers. I look forward to seeing him hand out our first Scholarship check to a very qualified recipient, Presli Busby. I want to introduce our newest board members: Matt Young , Jack Boyd, Mike Mansfield, and Ryan Stubbs. As you can see, your Board of Directors have been very busy working on your behalf. If you have not had a chance yet to see our new website, please check it out. You can also find us on Facebook. Your board is always ready to HELP AND SERVE YOU. To quote a friend of mine, “Facts are facts, the truth is the truth, and science evolves”. As Always, Stay Safe, Well, and “Florida Strong”. God Bless

DAY ONE FORMULA Species - Specific for Whitetail , Mule Deer & Elk “Better Than Mother’s Milk”

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FEEDING DIRECTIONS: WHITE-TAILED DEER: • Fawns up to 1 week of age: Feed 16 oz. of formula daily, divided into 4 – 6 feeding. • Fawns 1 week to 1 month of age: Feed 24 to 30 oz. of formula daily, divided into 4 feedings. • Fawns 1 month to 2 months of age: Feed 30 to 35 oz. of formula daily, divided into 2 to 3 feedings. • Fawns 2 months to weaning: Gradually decrease formula and number of feedings to approximately 15 oz. of formula once daily until fawn is fully weaned at 12 to 14 weeks of age. Provide a weaning diet and fresh clean water to the fawn. For oral use only. These feeding directions are guidelines. As each animal is an individual, the feeding rate may be increased or decreased according to the needs of the neonate.

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Quarterly Calendar Update Ad Deadlines & Events

Quarterly Calendar Update ~ Ad Deadlines & Events

FEBRUARY AUGUST

Provided by D&K Design, Publisher for State Association Magazines l VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE EVENT DETAILS: DEERSITES.COM

Indiana Deer & Elk Farmers’ Association Mulit-Magazine Fall Deadline

Spring Quarter Begins

Pennsylvania Fall Deadline

North Dakota Deer Ranchers Kentucky Alternative Livestock Association

Summer Showcase Fudraiser Auction Event

IDEFA Journal 2023 Ohio Fall Upper Midwest Deer Convention Summer Deadline Deadline Spring

*SHOWCASE BOOK IN THE MAIL! to Deer Farmers in over 20 States!

OK Annual Convention

Annual Meeting

Southeast Tines Southeast Tines Fall Deadline Spring Deadline LAST DAY TO SUBMINT *UPDATED BUCK PHOTOS

Annaual Meeting Benefit Auction

Texas Deer Association Annual Convention

KS Annual Convention

Pennsylvania Bluegrass Trophy Buck Auction, The IDEFA Journal Spring Deadline Cave City, KY Fall Deadline

Visit our website for more details realated to events: deersites.com

New York Deer and Elk Farmers Association

IA Annual Meeting Summer Picnic TBD

Whtietails of Louisiana alabama Deer association Expo & Auction Auction & Tradeshow

* See Showcase Flyer in this magazine for more information

MARCH SEPTEMBER

* See Showcase Flier in this magazine for more information

MDFA Annual Banquet

Louisiana Spring Deadline Labor Day

Mulit-Magazine Fall Deadline

UDFOM Annual Convention

Indiana Deer & Elk SETDA Spring fling Farmers’ Association Tri-State Associations Whitetails of Wisconsin Banquet & Fundraiser Fall Deadline Annaual Meeting Pennsylvania Benefit Auction Fall Deadline Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association

Alabama Spring Deadline

NADEFA Annual conference and Fundraiser

Fall Classic Stocker and Breeder Auction

& North Dakota Deer Ranchers Annual Pennsylvania Deer and OutdoorAnnual Expo Meeting Louisiana Kentucky Alternative Fall Deadline Livestock Association Southeast Tines Summer Showcase Fundraiser Auction Event Fall Deadline

Kentucky & New York Deadlines Kentucky & New York Fall Deadline Upper Midwest Summer Deadline

2023 SOUTHERN TOP 30 Whitetail & Specialty Extravaganza Great Wolf Lodge, Grapevine, TX

Quest for Michigan’s Best Spring Deadline

APRIL OCTOBER

The IDEFA Journal Fall Deadline

Quest for Michigan’s Best Spring Deadline

New York Deer and Elk Farmers Association

SDDEBA Annual Meeting

Summer Picnic

ILDFA Annual

Meeting & Luncheon

Whtietails of Louisiana Expo & Auction

SDDEBA Annual Meeting ILDFA Annual

Meeting & Luncheon

Columbus Day

UpperMidwest Spring Deadline

Quest for Michigan’s Best Fall Deadline

Tri-State Associations Fall Deadline

Labor Day

Summer Quarter Southeast Tines Pennsylvania Deer Begins Farmers Association Summer Deadline

Louisiana Fall Deadline

8 Halloween

Fall Classic Stocker and Breeder Auction & Annual Pennsylvania Deer and Outdoor Expo

Featured Farm Story

LEGACY RANCH

1. HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT DEER FARMING? One of our close friends, Mike Vizcaino had a deer farm and we helped him move a buck he was selling. After spending that day helping him, I fell in love with being up close and hands on with such magnificent animals.

2. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START A DEER FARM? Growing up an outdoorsman I’ve always had a love for whitetail deer and all wildlife, and knew I wanted to work hands on with animals some way or another. So, in 2007 I started my own wildlife removal company in North East Florida where we remove anything from rodents in attics to wild hogs digging up yards or golf courses. But once I learned I could raise and grow my own deer with exceptional genetics on the property we had. I knew starting a deer farm is what I wanted to do. We now have triplet 3 year old boys and love that they get to grow up in such close proximity to deer and are excited for them to be more hands on to help us as they get older.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DEER FARMING? We started small, in 2019 we built our own high fence with the help of friends on 25 acres we had in Elkton, FL. Then in 2020 we expanded to a 250 acre preserve and deer breeding facility in Jennings, Florida, where we are now.

4. HOW MANY DEER DID YOU START WITH? I started with 4 bred does in the original 25 acre preserve we built.

5. DO YOU AI OR LIVE BREED? IF YOU AI, DO YOU USE VAGINAL OR LAP PROCEDURE? Our breeding program now includes live breeding and Lap AI.

? ? ? ? ? 6. DO YOU BOTTLE FEED YOUR FAWNS?

We have learned mama does usually take way better care of their fawns than we ever could. So, we only bottle feed fawns as a last resort.

7. WHAT FEED DO YOU USE? We use Record Rack Elite Breeder feed for our deer and have had great results with it!

8. WHAT IS THE MOST ENJOYABLE PART OF RAISING DEER? Being able to share the experience with our friends and family. And finally seeing a buck grow into his genetics is pretty awesome and rewarding!

9. HOW HAS THE ASSOCIATION HELPED YOU AND YOUR FARM? The Southeast Trophy Deer Association has helped me to network and meet other deer farmers in Florida that have been very instrumental in helping me learn and grow professionally as a deer farmer. I’m excited to see the association keep growing as the deer market continues to grow here in Florida!

The following are questions for FL Ag Commissioner Wilton Simpson to answer at the Spring Fling: Question #1. When and where was CWD first detected? Question #2. Currently, how many states and provinces has CWD been found in? Question #3. What was the population of deer in the US when CWD was first detected, and what is the population today? Question #4. What does it take to kill or destroy the prion responsible for CWD? Question #5. Can meat processors and packers sterilize their equipment to prevent the possible contamination of meat from other animals being processed? Question #6. Has any human ever been reported getting CWD from eating venison or any other means? Question #7. Has the CWD prion been discovered in soils, plants (including grasses, hay, and grains) and in bodies of water? Question #8. Has the CWD prion been discovered in the feces of scavengers, including avian scavengers (such as migratory birds like crows, vultures, and eagles) and arthropods (otherwise known as insects)? Question #9. Has double or even triple fencing or depopulation stopped the spread of CWD? Question #10. Since the CWD prion can be found in all tissues and fluids of infected deer, why is live animal tissue testing not accepted or approved? Doesn’t it make sense to remove the “infected” animal(s) vs kill the entire herd? Question #11. Following the recent discovery of a CWD positive deer in Florida, two privately owned cervid operations were quarantined. As to the quarantines a. What are the terms of the quarantine orders? b. Since the CWD positive animal was a wild deer with no genetic ties to a high fence facility, why were privately owned cervid owners quarantined? What rationale justifies quarantines for facilities that have no ties or links to the CWD positive animal? Question #12. Are any Florida legislative changes being considered in the wake of the CWD positive animal? If so, what changes are being considered?

AFTER ADDRESSING THESE MR SIMPSON HAS AGREED TO TAKE QUESTIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE - TIME PERMITTING

ROCKY RIDGE WHITETAILS FOCUSED ON CWD RESISTANCE AND QUALITY BREEDING

By: Gail Veley When asking John Ervin Stoltzfus at Rocky Ridge Whitetails what he breeds for, his answer always begins the same way. “I don’t take short cuts. I breed for super large mainframes, such as beam length, tine length, width, and solid mass,” he said. He feels confident in his decisions and validated by the fact he is consistently winning antler competition awards at NADeFA. “I really like the “wow factor” when you get those antlers in your hands,” he added. John Ervin likes to breed a variety of deer for his customers to choose from, such as large clean typicals, large typical mainframes with extras to help increase score and give more character. Close to 15% of his herd he breeds for 500”+ and 600”+ giant nontypical’s with a focus on large balanced mainframes. In addition to breeding for a variety of antler types, he also breeds for health, body size and proven “pass down” genetics. “All of these factors have been a high priority for many years at Rocky Ridge Whitetails and continues to be,” John Ervin

16 16

emphasized. However, his focus has also shifted to another unavoidable trait in the quest to produce quality deer, breeding for CWD resistance. Scientific research by experts such as Dr. Haley, Dr. Seabury and numerous research facilities like the one found in Aimes, Iowa has paved the way for a future potentially void of CWD. “I’ve always had a passion and fascination to study, breed, watch and follow genetics and pedigrees in whitetail deer,” John Ervin said. “About 6 years ago when I heard about Dr. Haley’s research in whitetails on CWD resistant genes, it got my attention. I always had a feeling that nature has a way of taking its course and the weak will die off. But the strong genes will survive and reproduce. If they could breed out sheep scrapies, then why couldn’t deer farmers breed deer CWD resistant deer, since both are a prion disease.” John Ervin also feels optimistic about a genetic test first introduced three years ago by Dr. Seabury, a 50K Genomic Estimated Breeding Value (GEBV) test for CWD

resistance. Continued research will include updating this genomic test through CWD positive herd research. “I believe CWD research needs to be continued especially since it’s a regulated disease,” John Ervin explained. “I am grateful to Dr. Seabury and to NADR for updating GEBV research annually. NADR is now doing the GEBV and codon marker test.” As a result of this test, recommendations now include breeding away from codon 96 GG and instead breeding the combination codon 96 SS and lower negative number GEBV’s, which is proving successful in making deer less susceptible to contracting CWD. John Ervin feels determining breeding markers is easy and while that itself may not take long, breeding lower and lower GEBV numbers will take a lot more time if your goal is to have your whole herd at the lowest GEBV numbers possible in spite of variables such as prion contamination exposure. “I find it very interesting on GEBV pass down,” John Ervin said, and explains it just like breeding for antler size.

“You would expect that in breeding a 200” class doe to a 400” buck, that the sons should be close to the middle at 300”. But anyone that has been breeding deer long enough knows that isn’t nearly the case, with some being under 200” and some being somewhere between 200” to 400”. And sometimes you get that one that is even bigger and better then both parents. And, naturally the desire is to breed the bigger and better deer, if you are striving to improve and take your herd to the next level.” In the 27 years that John Ervin has spent raising whitetails, he has seen and appreciated the efforts of deer farmers striving to produce their next level of deer. He is hopeful the industry will see the same thing happen with GEBV’s and that CWD will cease to exist on deer farms. He understands the numbers have continued to rise for CWD positives and CWD trace-out quarantines in his home state of Pennsylvania and for many other states. “There has been a lot of CWD found in the wild in the recent years and it seems to have an effect on many deer farms going CWD positive,” John Ervin shared. “Our Pennsylvania Game Commission does a good job at supplying the records on tracking CWD in the wild herds, but they don’t have a good solution to eradicate CWD. The following are reports on the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website for Bedford and Lancaster Counties. Bedford County wild deer...............................#CWD tested........ #CWD positive 2012/2013 season 5% positive.............20..................... 1 2013/2014 season 0.34% positive........581................... 2 2014/2015 season 0.43% positive........462................... 2 2015/2016 season 0.94% positive........636................... 6 2016/2017 season 2.56% positive........678................... 18 2017/2018 season 3.99% positive........1103................. 44 2018/2019 season 5.23% positive........1223................. 64 2019/2020 season 7.76% positive........1263................. 98 2020/2021 season 14% positive...........886................... 124 2021/2022 season 22.15% positive......614................... 136 2022/2023 season 32.54% positive......676................... 220 2023/2024 season results still coming in and to this date percentage of CWD positive has increased again

While you can track each county on the PA Game Commission website for wild deer, John Ervin picked the first county (Bedford) where CWD was found in 2012 and his own county (Lancaster) where his farm is. While he is thankful no CWD was ever found in his county in wild deer to this date, he does understand that could change in the future with wild deer CWD positive appearing on the other side of his farm fence, and he wants to be prepared with a resistant herd if that would ever happen. And while his farm is double fenced, he understands as do all deer farmers, that there are also other ways to spread CWD. John Ervin also already seen a tremendous shift in those desiring CWD resistance genetics in the amount of

Lancaster county wild deer...................#CWD tested........ #CWD positive 2012/2013 season 0% positive.............2....................... 0 2013/2014 season 0% positive.............116................... 0 2014/2015 season 0% positive.............52..................... 0 2015/2016 season 0% positive.............49..................... 0 2016/2017 season 0% positive.............52..................... 0 2017/2018 season 0% positive.............67..................... 0 2018/2019 season 0% positive.............296................... 0 2019/2020 season 0% positive.............290................... 0 2020/2021 season 0% positive.............245................... 0 2021/2022 season 0% positive.............199................... 0 2022/2023 season 0% positive.............202................... 0 2023/2024 season results still coming in with no CWD positives to this date

semen he sells, as well as his embryo and breeding stock sales. He has also heard first-hand from hunting ranches that while CWD resistance genes will not make a difference to hunters, it will make a difference for stocking preserves if CWD resistant deer lower the risk of bringing the disease onto their property. “Because

of this, I believe we have the potential for a very bright future and great opportunities for our next generation,” he said. “I’m so happy to be sharing my passion with my wife Mary Ann and our five precious children, and to be meeting the genetic demands of my customers and their clients.”

INSECTICIDES IN THE ENVIRONMENT Non-Target Ef fects • Insecticides are designed to affect • target insects that are pests, nuisances, or vectors. However, in some cases, insecticides can affect non-target insects.

Non-target insects are any insects that are unintentionally exposed to insecticides during applications targeting insect pests. This can include beneficial insects, such as pollinators, biological control agents, decomposers, and insects used for food or feed, among others.

Effects on pollinators • Insecticides can harm pollinator insects, such as butterflies, bees, flies, and beetles. • Pollinators may be exposed to insecticides in numerous ways, including: - Direct contact: When the insecticide lands directly on pollinators - Residual contact: When the pollinators land on surfaces that have been treated with insecticides.

What can we do to minimize non-target effects? • Read and follow the insecticide label before you purchase a product, before you mix it, and before you apply it. • Dispose insecticides as recommended in the pesticide label • Do not spray more than the label recommends • Clean spills immediately • If possible, avoid applying insecticides at times when pollinators are most active. For example, butterflies and bees are usually more active during the day. • Avoid spraying flowering plants, since insecticide drift can contaminate pollen and nectar that pollinators may be exposed to. • Consider implementing an integrated pest management program which uses biological, cultural, and mechanical control against pests. Some examples include the use of barriers to protect animals from biting insects, habitat modification to reduce areas where biting insects develop, and trapping of biting insects. 18

Effects on biological control insects

• Insecticides can harm beneficial insects that naturally control insect pests (natural enemies) • When insecticide applications targeting pests also kill natural enemies, there is a risk that the pest will resurge at even greater levels, since no natural control will occur. • Some examples of natural enemies include lady beetles, lacewings, parasitic wasps, and flower flies.

Effects on decomposers

• Some insecticides can harm beneficial insects that are decomposers. • Decomposer insects are important because they help to transform organic residues into useful organic matter. For example, dung beetles are important decomposers of animal waste. • Decreases in decomposers have been associated to lower availability of nutrients in soils that are necessary for plant growth. Would you like more information? Do you have any questions?

Use your camera Contact us, and stay connected to scan the QR code wec.ifas.ufl.edu/cheri @vilmalikesflies @UF_IFAS_CHERI vilma.montenegro@ufl.edu

Authors Vilma Montenegro, M.S. Eva Buckner, Ph.D. & Nathan Burkett-Cadena, Ph.D. to complete a 3-min survey on Florida Medical Entomology Lab insecticides University of Florida

www.wec.ifas.ufl.edu/cheri |

ufifas.cheri@gmail.com

Develop strategies to reduce mortality and improve herd production by:

• HD testing • herd health management • nutrition consultation • integrated pest management • other diagnostic tests

UF IFAS Cervidae Health @UF_IFAS_CHeRI Research Initiative

THE NORTH AMERICAN DEER REGISTRY (NADR) OFFERING MORE SERVICES AND INNOVATION FOR BREEDING AND MANAGING DEER By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by IWDA Deer farmers, through the unwavering innovations of NADR, can now know exactly which GEBV markers and codons their deer possess, along with standard DNA parentage markers. “Our recently upgraded technology is allowing us to include GEBV markers and codon information with our standard parentage testing,” said NADR Executive Director Gary Cook. “This information allows breeders to maximize the reduction risk regarding CWD. The science allows them to genetically reconstruct their herds, making them less likely for CWD to occur, by virtually layering genetics from animals that are less susceptible to CWD. This will greatly influence breeding decisions as well as the future of the deer industry.” Established in 2007 as an independent agency to help validate the deer industry, NADR has also recently purchased Game Management Solutions (GMS) software from NADeFA. “Our goal is to reinvent it so it can be opened from a phone and utilized in web-based applications,” Cook said. “We’ve been spending considerable time and effort revamping it to make it a much more powerful tool.” GMS, a tracking system designed to help manage every aspect of deer farming, will be available on a subscription basis in late winter or early spring, depending on when NADR is ready to introduce it. Currently, NADR maintains a DNA registry for whitetail, fallow and mule deer and as such, has tested almost 400,000 tissue samples. In addition, NADR is working on adding SNP markers for axis deer that will be available in 2024. Deer farmers looking to sell, breed or participate in consignment sales are strongly encouraged to register their deer with NADR, through the submission of tissue samples. Sample submission options include an excel spreadsheet,

GMS software or manually. Samples could include pulled (not shaved) hair between 30-50 millimeters long from the underside of the tail, an antler core from the base of a shed antler, semen straws or used semen straws with the cotton plug still intact. However, AllFlex tissue tubes can be handled much quicker through an automated process versus hair or blood, explained Lindsey Kogut, NADR Senior Lead Scientist. “We need to constantly remind people that we’ve grown, and samples can take weeks to process,” she said. “The earlier you get them to us the better. We will keep you informed and let you know when it’s in process.” One of the advantages of the revamped GMS software will be the ability to notify breeders when samples are in process and when results are available.

the latest CWD research and how GEBV’s and codons influence resistance. “Genetic improvement for reduced CWD susceptibility is not a single step process. It is a work in progress and is a standard practice in commercial/production livestock species as well,” Kogut said. “This information takes the guess work out of it and can provide an immense level of comfort to deer farmers. I cannot imagine where the deer breeding industry would be without the efforts of NADR.”

As a more recent staff edition, Kogut, is responsible for ensuring parentage and GEBV results are reviewed and released to the breeders in an accurate and timely manner. Drawing from the extensive research conducted by Dr. Christopher Seabury, Kogut spends a considerable amount of time talking with deer farmers in an effort to explain

You may reach NADR staff by calling 405-513-7228, faxing them at 405-513-7238, sending an email to nadr@deerregistry.com or visiting their website at www:deerregistry.com. NADR is located at 1601 Medical Center Drive, Suite 1, Edmond, OK, 73034.

“We continue to work hard to provide the very best tools and the most valuable information in a genetic registry,” Cook said. “NADR is ever continuing to seek ways to use technology to provide knowledge and state of the art services to our customers.”

Watch online at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9mcoEMtacA&t=768s

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My Most Memorable Hunt Honored to be able to share this hunt with Blake. Blake is a purple heart vet with a heck of a story!

Not much is safe around this group of hunters!

Not many guys can free hand make a 250 yard shot, but Melinda’s did and too a fine and took her first Blackbuck. Congratulations!

Charter Captain Chris with his biggest buck. Not only can that guy find the fish, but also big deer!

To have your Most Memorable Hunt featured in the next Southeast Tines send a photo and a short story to deerassociations@gmail.com. Subject line should be “My Most Memorable Hunt”.

Dillon Wilkison harvested this 8 point buck in west Texas.

Jack Boyd and his beautiful whitetail! A hunt to remember!

This family knows what it means to start them young. It’s a Young family tradition. Congrats, Matthew, on his 1st axis buck!

This young man killed this beautiful 9 point. It was his first buck ever! He made a perfect shot and dropped the buck in his tracks!

Idaho Elk hunt. A father & son dream trip that finally took place after many years in the planning. Precious memories.

Remember the “Mission” by Dr. Bill Leffler VP of SETDA In dealing with Federal and State Agencies it is always critical to remember their Mission Statement and Vision. It may have little or nothing to do with what you feel that they should do for you, your animals, or your industry. It is always best to keep cool heads and emotions in check. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at the following: Department of Natural Resources (DNR) To protect and enhance our natural resources: our air, land and water; our wildlife, fish, and forests and the ecosystems that sustain all life. To provide a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities. To ensure the right of all people to use and enjoy these resources in their work and leisure. To work with people to understand each other’s views and to carry out the public will. And in this partnership consider the future and generations to follow. US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Our mission is to develop and deliver state-of-the-art, science based methods that improve the postharvest processing, preservation, quality, marketing, and consumption of safe and nutritious foods. This effort extends to the development of value added food and feed. Their vision is to provide economic opportunity through innovation, helping rural America to thrive; to promote agriculture production that better nourishes Americans while also helping feed others throughout the world; and to preserve our Nation’s natural resources through conservation, restored forests, improved watersheds, and healthy private working lands. Fl Department of Agriculture To safeguard the public and support Florida’s agricultural economy by: Ensuring the safety and wholesomeness of food and other consumer products through inspection and testing programs; Protecting consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices and providing consumer information; Assisting Florida’s farmers and agricultural industries with the production and promotion of agricultural products; and Conserving and protecting the state’s agricultural and natural resources by reducing wildfires promoting environmentally safe agricultural practices, and managing public lands. Florida Wildlife Commission ( FWC) Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long term well-being and the benefit of people. Vision: A Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy. Values: are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment. We work diligently to conserve fish and wildlife in a manner that honors the public trust that has been vested in us through Florida’s constitution.

*All information for this article was taken off official public sites posted online.

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2024 NADEFA IN SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS - PROMISES LASTING MEMORIES AND GOOD TIMES ®

By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by ILDFA Attending The North American Deer Farmer’s Association (NADeFA) national convention could prove to be a game changer for your deer business. “Developing long-lasting business relationships through face-to-face meetings and camaraderie is one of the most important reasons for deer farmers and those who sell products and services to attend NADeFA,” offers Kathy Giesen, Editor and Publisher of multiple state deer association magazines, and steadfast convention attendee. “At NADeFA you get a very good mix of state association people. I feel this convention in particular will draw from every state deer association and be very well attended. There will also be a lot of educational and fun activities.”

anticipated event. Springfield, a city known for being home to President Abraham Lincoln, the invention of the corn dog and horseshoe sandwich as well as Springfield Lake, a beautiful and popular reservoir, is also rich in culture. In 1812, Explorer John Kelly built the first cabin in Springfield, noting the area’s vast abundance of wild deer and game. Today, among the city’s grid structured streets is The Abraham Lincoln President Library and Museum, a mere 12 minutes from the convention. NADeFA attendees will receive a special admission rate of only $10 if they visit the museum during the convention, which is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Scheduled for March 20th-23rd 2024 at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Springfield Illinois, NADeFA will also feature several guest speakers. “We typically cover a wide variety of topics such as information on starting a deer farm to the latest CWD findings to herd health and management,” said NADeFA Executive Director Shawn Schafer. “A sampling of this year’s speakers includes Justin Greenlee and Dr. Chris Seabury.”

ILDFA Vice President Chase Baker and Board Member Dr. Clifford Shipley believe that Illinois, a state with a very good reputation for raising deer, is a perfect choice and central location for hosting NADeFA. “Springfield is a good city with easy access from the interstate and airport to the hotel,” Dr. Shipley said. In addition, ILDFA members hope Illinois “gains the exposure it deserves in being a great state to be a deer farmer,” Baker added. “We see it continuing to be that way in the future.”

Board members for The Illinois Deer Farming Association (ILDFA) are pleased that Springfield, the capital of Illinois, will serve as the host city for this always much-

As bright as the future is for Illinois deer farmers, is the prospect for new NADeFA attendees to make life-long friends and business partners, and for more

seasoned attendees to strengthen and deepen existing relationships. In addition to events such as the anticipated Antler Competition, Silent Auction, Benefit Auction, Consignment Auction, Dart Gun Competition, Coloring and Photo contest is the convention hall itself, featuring booths from deer farms as well as those promoting various products and services geared toward helping a deer farmer succeed. “There are approximately 2,500 members reached through our publications with the various state deer associations,” Giesen emphasized. “Therefore, I feel there should be at least 2,500 people that attend NADeFA. Many deer farmers have never been to a national convention. Everyone owes it to themselves to go. Sponsorships, and the recognition that comes with that, are also available for anyone who wishes to sponsor a meal or an event.” To register for NADeFA or to have a booth, visit the NADeFA website under NADeFA 2024. “We are expecting a good size crowd,” Schafer said. “This is an event the whole family will enjoy. Plan on attending. You will really have a great time.” For more information: www.nadefa.org Phone: 330.454.3944 • Fax: 330.454.3950 Email: info@nadefa.org

I want to thank everyone who submitted questions for Fl Ag Commissioner, Mr. Simpson to attempt to address at the Spring Fling this March 15-16. There were so many that it would take more than an entire day to get to them all. His time with us is very limited and I thank him for spending it with us. In this issue and those to follow I will attempt to answer, to the best of my ability, as many as possible. I have combined many that were very similar and organized them in a manner for consistency of thought and better understanding versus jumping all over the place. Since I am not an attorney, many of the legal questions and concerns I will probably be unable to answer. Q1. When and where was CWD first discovered? Colorado, affecting a mule deer.

It was first written about around 1967 , near Ft. Collins,

Q2. What causes it? An abnormal, mutated or misfolded protein particle that gets into a host resulting in a prion disease, also known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE). Q3. What are prion diseases, and can they infect humans, and how many are there? 16 different prion diseases have been reported, 7 in animals, and 9 in humans. Animal prion diseases include scrapie in sheep and goats, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE or Mad Cow Disease) in cattle, transmissible mink encephalopathy (TME) in farm raised mink, exotic ungulate spongiform encephalopathy(EUE) in zoo ruminants like nyala and kudu, feline spongiform encephalopathy (FSE) in cats and large felines in zoos, non-human primates (NHP) in lemurs, and chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids. There are 9 human prion diseases, most arriving from spontaneous mutation of prions, Kuru from cannibalism, iCJD from infected cadaver corneal grafts, and vCJD from consumption of infected meat from cattle. Q4. Can people get CWD? To date, no human has ever been reported contracting CWD. Q5. Are all prions bad? No, prions exist as normal harmless cellular protein particles found in all body tissues, including those of humans, but are most commonly found in the brain and spinal cord. Q6. Is eating venison safe? As answered earlier, no human has gotten CWD. Venison consumption has continued and increased since the discovery of CWD even from locations where CWD is highly prevalent. There are many geographic areas where venison is a large part of the regular annual diet? That being said, the CDC and other government agencies advise not to eat venison from deer that have tested positive. Q7. If people can’t get it and eating venison is safe, what’s all the fuss about? A primary part of the mission statement of the USDA and Fl Dept of AG, deals with ensuring that food is safe. There are concerns that it could one day jump species to infect humans, and because of the long incubation period of prion diseases go undetected for a very long time or even manifest itself with totally unexpected signs or symptoms. Q8. Can’t we cure it like mad cow disease? Uncertain at this time. It’s important to note that all animal prion diseases other than scrappies and CWD have been controlled (not cured) by removing the source of contamination from the animal’s diet . Scrapie and CWD are naturally sustaining epidemics. Q9. Isn’t CWD like a bacterial or viral disease which can be treated? CWD, and all prion diseases are unique unlike all other diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Prions are non-living malformed pieces of protein. All other diseases above are caused by living organisms which can be killed or rendered relatively harmless with various therapeutic treatments. You can’t kill what’s not alive! Q10. Can deer get scrapie like sheep? No and Yes. Outside of a research lab or facility deer do not get scrapie, it is species specific to sheep and goats. However, in clinical/experimental research facilities, deer that have received injections of scrapie into their brain as well as being fed infectious brain and organ tissues, have in fact developed scrapie. It is critical to note, that the scrapie prion examined in those deer had mutated and afterwards did not resemble scrapie at all.

Continued on page 44...

Continued from page 43... Q11. Can prions reproduce or evolve if they are not alive? Yes, J. Li from the Scripps Institute in Florida in 2009 discovered that lifeless infectious proteins are capable of Darwinian evolution, all without a single strand of DNA or RNA. “ They could very well play an important role in natural evolution”, she stated. They replicate or reproduce by causing a catalytic chain-like reaction wherein abnormal misfolded prions cause normal prions to mutate their configuration and become misfolded as well. Q12. How long do prions that cause scrapie and CWD live or last? Since they are not alive, they can last for a very long time. The exact time they can remain infectious in the environment is still unknown. In fact, infected brains that have been sitting in formaldehyde for decades can still transmit spongiform disease. Scalpels that have been sterilized with standard autoclave methods were found to be still contaminated with prions having infectivity. Q13. What is the oldest know prion disease and where was it found? The earliest written records of Scrapie in English sheep were around 1732, but it was already prevalent in central Europe prior to that. It was brought to America from Europe. Q14. Isn’t CWD actually scrapie? Possibly, but NO. As previously stated, the infectious scrapie prion once experimentally injected into or fed to deer, mutates so that it no longer resembles itself. Could it father mutate to resemble and become the infectious CWD prion is possible, but not yet proven. Q13. Can prion diseases like CWD cross over or jump to other animal species? This has not been seen in the wild. However, since the 1960’s and still continuing today, scientists have been experimenting and have been successful in getting prion diseases to cross over or jump to other species. This has been reported as possibly being the cause of the very first mule deer being infected with CWD back in 1967 near Ft. Collins, Colorado. Q14. Is CWD always fatal to deer as has been reported? The uniform statement from all governmental agencies is that CWD is highly contagious and always fatal. In fact, prion “diseases” are always fatal. However, the incubation period, or time before signs, symptoms, and ultimate death can be many years or decades in humans. Alzheimer’s is actually a double prion disorder. It is also interesting to note, that Parkinson’s disease may very well be a prion disorder as well. Q15. What are the neurological signs of CWD? It is important to understand that deer infected with CWD may have absolutely no signs of the disease for years. The incubation period varies from 12+ months to apx. 5+ years, and yet they can still shed infectious prions. It is usually that in the last 6 months of life that infected animals show a variety of changes in appearance and behavior. These may include: drastic weight loss (wasting away), stumbling, lack of coordination ( running in circles), listlessness, drooling, excessive thirst or urination, droopy ears, and lack of fear of people. Q16. Do “zombie” deer have CWD? It is impossible to determine based on symptoms alone, often described as zombie-like, if a deer has CWD or not. Many other diseases, besides CWD, and malnutrition, can cause the very same symptoms. CWD can only be absolutely diagnosed by specific lab testing. Q17. How can we trust lab results, when everyone has had lab results that were either false positive or negative for either themselves, their family, or friends? When a deer is initially tested and found to be positive, additional tissue from that deer is sent to the Aimes Research lab for further analysis. Only after it has been also found to be positive there can it actually be reported as positive for CWD. Unfortunately, there have been reports of herds being depopulated before the results from a second test could confirm the positive results from the initial test, and sometimes the initial test was a false positive. Q18. When did CWD first appear in the “wild deer” population? It is well known that the 1st case of CWD was detected in a research facility in Colorado around 1967. What is not well known is that that facility was run by government agencies attempting to see if mule deer could get scrapie back around 1967. Nor is it well known, that those deer were then released into the wild, and by 1981 CWD was now identified in wild deer. Q19. Despite all efforts to stop or control the spread of CWD, how far and wide is it now found? As of February, 2024 it is now in 32 states across all 4 regions ( West, Midwest, South, and Northeast) of the continental US, five Canadian provinces. Globally it is in free ranging cervids found in the US, Canada, Sweden, Finland, and Norway, and captive herds in South Korea. Continued on page 46...

Continued from page 44... Q20. Can animals other than cervids get CWD? There exists in nature a structural barrier for cross-species transmission of prions and resultant prion diseases. However, scientists and researchers have been conducting laboratory experiments for decades to understand and explain this. Only in lab setting has CWD been able to jump or cross- species barriers, most often via direct injection of infectious material into the brain of test animals and occasionally orally, by feeding animals infected meat/ organ material. In an article published 9/1/22 University of Calgary, College of Veterinary Medicine..... were able to get mice to finally develop CWD after years of injecting with CWD isolates from infected deer. In July 2017, scientists published a summary of research begun in 2009, where they were able to get squirrel monkeys and macaques ( another type of monkey) to contract CWD. Q21. I have heard that burning deer carcasses is the only way to destroy CWD, is that true? It takes extremely high temperatures to destroy a prion like those that cause CWD. There are still low levels of infectivity remaining even after incinerating at temperatures of 600 degrees Celsius (1112 degrees F). There are no fires that the general public can do to destroy CWD and few research facilities incinerate more than very small samples due to the high costs. This is a big concern and reason why UF CHeRI’s necropsy team only takes very small tissue samples, which are enough to run what tests they need, but never the whole deer. Q22. Was the deer that is Florida’s first case of CWD a genetic match for deer in the “wild” population or from a captive herd? The doe that was discovered in Holmes county apx. 5 miles from the Florida-Alabama state line was in fact a match of those deer in the wild for that geographic area and NOT from a captive herd. The next closest case of CWD to that site in Alabama is north west of Huntsville in Lauderdale County near the AlabamaTennessee state line. The next nearest county with CWD is Warren county, Mississippi. Q23. How is CWD spread in the wild, outside of a lab? Scientists believe that CWD, and the prions responsible for causing it, are likely spread between animals through bodily fluids like saliva, blood, urine, feces, either through direct contact or indirectly through environmental contamination of soil, food, or water. Experts now believe that CWD prions can remain is the environment for a very long time, so that other animals can contract CWD from the environment long after infected animal(s) have died. It is very important to remember that scrapie has been around for nearly 300 years and can still be found in the environment. Q24. How can we stop CWD from spreading once it is in the environment? Once in the environment it is virtually impossible to stop the spread for the following reasons. Contaminated soil, including dirt and mud can cling to the bottom of shoes, boots, all types of tires, regardless whether the tire was on a recreational vehicle, off road ATV/UTV, motorcycle, private or commercially owned car or truck, mining vehicle, or even agricultural vehicles (like tractors and combines, etc). This soil can then be very easily transferred across vast distances only to fall or get washed off and then contaminate the soil in that new location. We don’t even need to speak about inter and intrastate transportation of fill dirt, rock, and other aggregates in mining. All types of plants grown in soils contaminated with CWD prions are capable of up taking the prion and themselves become contaminated. CWD has been found in grasses, hays, and grains and yet they are still being transported all across the country daily contributing to the spread. There is no way for us to know if the feed that our captive cervids and possibly wild ones eat is not itself contaminated. CWD has also been in many bodies of water, but modern filtration and treatment plants can easily remove them from the public drinking water. Q25. Can CWD be spread in the air? In experimental lab and research settings, YES. Scientists have been able to infect other animals with aerosolized CWD prions. It is doubtful, but unknown at this time if that is a possible means of transmission in the wild. Q26. I have been told that many state agencies have been promoting and, in some states, requiring double fencing as the only effective way to keep my Captive farm raised deer safe from getting CWD, does that really work ?

TO BE CONTINUED

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APPLICATION FOR SETDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dear SeTDA Member: The Board of Directors (Board) for the Southeast Trophy Deer Association (SeTDA) has several Board positions set to expire. Therefore, the SeTDA will be holding an election for the expiring Board positions. The SeTDA is looking for HARD WORKING individuals who will devote the necessary time and energy to accomplish the following mission of the SeTDA: • To promote the business of raising and marketing Whitetail Deer in the State of FLORIDA. • To provide educational opportunities for members of the Corporation and other interested people through the sharing of information concerning Whitetail Deer. • To serve as a collective voice in governmental issues that affect whitetail deer producers, so as to enhance the Whitetail Deer industry. • To promote high ethical standards in the care, handling and harvesting of Whitetail Deer. • To require members of the Corporation to operate in a legal, honest and forthright manner with fellow members, other Whitetail Deer producers and the general public.

If interested in running for one of the expiring Board positions, please answer the following questions:

CANDIDATE QUESTIONS FOR THE SETDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 1. Please describe yourself and what you do outside of the cervid industry. 2. Please describe your operation. (How long have you been raising deer? Where is your farm located? What species are in your breeding program? What are your primary markets? Etc.) 3. Describe any roles you have served in (committee member, officer, etc.) for your state and/or national association (NADEFA). 4. Describe your position on open borders for your state of residence, as well as from a national perspective. 5. Why do you want to serve as a SETDA Director?

Mail to Dr Bill Leffler c/o 2 Base Down Whitetails, PO Box 159, Morriston, FL 32668 or email to Bleffler2011@gmail.com

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