Where are the properties you are offering located?
The majority of the properties we are offering will be located in central and western New York. However, we also plan to offer properties in the new York City Metro, Boston, Philadelphia metro areas as well as parts of New Jersey and otherwise. We are in the process of evaluating properties on other states as time and other factors permit. Call us for a listing of what we currently offer or to let us know your specific needs.

What is a “turn-key” deerscaped property?
A “turn-key” deerscaped property is a property that is ready to be hunted. We evaluate everything about the property and do the majority of the work for you. We do most or all of the work to prepare the property for the new landowner to walk in and hunt. All properties will also include an owner's manual in the form of a NorthCountry Whitetails Management Plan- prescribed by Neil Dougherty himself.

Are all the properties finished?
No, some of the properties are deerscapes and progress. Understanding that there are a lot of “do-it-yourself” folks out there we will offer some properties that are not completed. As with every NorthCountry Property these properties will come with and NorthCountry Whitetails Management Plan- prescribed by Neil Dougherty. But, with these properties you can do the remainder of the work yourself or have us finish it for you. Either way, you have the pledge of NorthCountry Whitetails to help you produce the best quality habitat and hunting possible.

What size properties are you offering?
Small property management is our specialty. We like to describe small properties as those 500 acres and less. We are offering properties in the 100-500 acre range, but expect of have offerings both larger and smaller than that based upon the properties potential and location. Specifically, smaller parcels will be offered in locations close to New York City, Boston, Philadelphia and the New Jersey area.

What's different about a NorthCountry Whitetails Property?
1. We spend a great deal of time evaluating dozens of properties before even setting foot on one. We evaluate all properties to make sure they will offer what we consider to be world-class white-tailed deer hunting potential.

2. We know exactly what we are looking for in a property to offer that type of potential. We're not a real estate broker looking to close as many land deals as we can. Our goal is to offer the highest quality white-tailed deer hunting property available, anywhere. We do not promote land close to state forests, small lots with cabins or land that does not offer security and outstanding hunting potential.

3. We have started or completely finished making the property into a deerscape that will offer unparalleled hunting potential.

4. All of the NorthCountry Properties include a NorthCountry Whitetails Management Plan and out commitment to help you develop your property and use it to it's fullest potential.

Do you have any properties that have not been deeerscaped?
Occasionally, we offer a “wildlife” property, which while supporting deer has not been fully deerscaped for a various reasons. Often, these properties have outstanding wildlife diversity potential, but are not what we consider to offer the best possible deer hunting. However, overall they are the best-suited property for anyone interested in wing shooting, good deer hunting, bird watching or general wildlife viewing.

What is covered in a site evaluation?
It varies per property. We cover all aspects of the property including available food, cover, and current hunting strategy. We then recommend how to improve these aspects as well as what will improve your overall hunting experience. At the same time, we will demonstrate and develop a plan of how to facilitate and obtain your specific hunting and habitat goals.

Can I use my four-wheeler to put in food plots?
Sure, providing you have enough power. There are a wide variety of food plot implements designed to be pulled behind ATV's.

Will Whitetail Institute food plot seeds grow in the North?
Yes, in fact, the Whitetail Institute tests all of its seed blends at the NorthCountry Whitetails Demo Center in Western NY.

Can I fertilize when my plants are already growing or up?
Yes, but it is preferable to do so when preparing the seedbed. If this is not possible or you miss this opportunity, you can fertilize when plants are 2 inches tall and just prior to a good rain.

How do I know when I need to fertilize again?
Generally, it's good to practice fertilization when seeding; however, a mid growth fertilization is often necessary. We watch our plots closely for color changes, from dark green to yellow or orange and dramatic signs of growth slow down. If there has been adequate rain these are usually signs of starving or “hungry” plants. A good fertilizer application will usually perk them up in a hurry.

Why don't you add nitrogen to clover based seed blends?
Clover has the ability to fix its own nitrogen; plus nitrogen stimulates grass and weed growth.

How far apart should I put my posted signs?
This will vary by terrain, but as a rule of thumb, we recommend every couple hundred feet as being adequate. Each state has its own regulations, so be sure to check and see the legal rate. In areas where there might be easier access for trespassers, we recommend heavier posting.

Can I mow my Brassica?
Yes, especially early in the season, but it's best to confine your mowing to control weeds as mowing will decrease the overall tonnage produced per acre, per year.

Can you put too much lime down?
Yes, even though a soil test may indicate that an application of lime is needed (4 tons), it 's best not to exceed 2-2.5 tons per seasonal application.

How do I plant no-till seed blends?
We wish we could say just spread and forget but we can't. Spreading seed over sod or covered ground is like starting a campfire with 20 dollar bills. Food plot establishment is directly proportional to food plot preparation. Bare dirt is essential and can be created with a combination of herbicides (to kill existing vegetation) and soil disturbing implements (rakes, roto-tillers, plows, discs, etc.) Once this is accomplished, seeds will have their best chance of survival and you will see the best possible results from your seed.

What is the best way to hold deer on my property?
Providing food and cover is a great start; combine that with low impact hunting, a couple of sanctuaries, and deer will stick around.

How can I create more cover on my property?
Wildlife biologists often state that a chainsaw is a deer's best friend. This is for good reason because cutting established stands of timber will create immediate cover in the tree tops now on the ground; at the same time allowing sun light to reach the forest floor stimulating growth of forbes, weeds, saplings browse, etc.

Can I apply chemicals when my plot is already growing?
Yes, species specific chemicals like Slay or Arrest, which kill most grasses and broadleafs, can be applied to help establish and maintain food plots. Be sure to know your species and herbicides well before attempting.

Where should I locate my food plots?
Food plots are best located where there is a history of strong vegetation growth. Barren areas are barren for a reason and are not good news for the aspiring food plot "farmer". Also, keep your food plots away from roadsides where deer become easy targets for poachers.

What about sanctuaries?
Sanctuaries are great management tools to help you keep deer “home”. They are especially important on small properties where serious consideration should be given to dedicating up to 50% of your land to sanctuary. However, for most properties we generally recommend at least 20%.

When do I apply RoundUp?
It is best to apply RoundUp when weeds are growing aggressively and have recently been cut. You can/ should then do another application 7-10 days prior to planting in order to kill the plant's root system.