Twenty five hunters were selected from 326 applications for the first hunt, and 135 hunters applied for the 2nd hunt from which another group of 25 were selected. Participation in both of these hunts was fairly light, but those who did hunt enjoyed the opportunity. Similar hunts will be conducted next fall. Contact us next summer for details about how and when to apply for these managed hunts. Farmers An agreement has been reached with the area farmers that will allow them to crop the area for one more year.
Conventional agriculture is a good use of the land as management plans are completed.
Most of the area will be farmed again in 1999 but some changes will be made in farming techniques and some areas will be idled. Area staff will work with the farmers to design crop plans that are beneficial to wildlife and the soil and water resources on the area. A portion of the crops will be left in the field next winter after the harvest to provide winter food for wildlife. Sunflowers will be included in the crop rotation to benefit doves and song birds. Public Involvement Thirty people attended a special public input session last August for the purpose of sharing their thoughts and ideas about Columbia Bottom.