Winter feeding programs are expensive too. The Jackson Fire burned with such intensity that the entire shrub overstory was lost. A feeding program, if started, would have to continue for years before the habitat could support a large deer population. Biologists and many landowners agree that the best management strategy is to reduce the deer population to match the habitat. Although the Jackson fire was significant, it affects less than 8 percent of the mule deer in the Beulah Wildlife Management Unit.
Biologists note that other winter ranges in the unit are in good condition.