Your Community Builder
Your Community Builder
I want to wish everyone in Carter County a belated Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It's hard to believe that 2024 has already come and gone. This past year was extremely busy and exciting as I worked to get a lay of the land and build relationships with livestock producers dealing with predator issues. I deeply appreciate the warm welcome from the community and the support I've received from producers.
A huge thank-you goes out to Carter County contract trappers Robbie Fix and Chad Harrington. We communicate almost daily, and their efforts in getting me onboarded and identifying problem areas have been invaluable. With Robbie and Chad as the eyes and ears on the ground in Carter County, I generally work under their direction. If you're experiencing predator issues, please reach out to them so we can address the problem together.
Producers Working Together for Greater Efficiency
The collaboration between ground and aerial efforts has been outstanding. Tasks such as running creeks with ATVs, glassing from hillsides, checking for predator signs (like wet coyotes or wool evidence), and smoking dens all contribute to our success. This groundwork, paired with aerial efforts, ensures we address potential issues efficiently. Your hard work does not go unnoticed-thank you!
A Clean Slate for 2025
Heading into 2025, I want to focus on clearing out as many coyotes as possible in large areas, especially from late January to mid-April. This period is the most effective time for predator control. In 2024, I joined the program mid-season, which often felt like being two steps behind. By prioritizing maintenance flights early in the year, we can focus on preventing predation before it occurs.
Removing coyotes during this critical time-while pups are still in the mothers-frees up time later in the year for maintenance flights and helps keep livestock losses to a minimum. This proactive approach will allow us to stay ahead of potential issues.
The Role of Maintenance in Predator Control
Maintenance is the foundation of any predator control program, and I encourage everyone to participate. As a predator caller myself, I understand both the joy and economic impact of recreational hunting and the importance of engaging young hunters. I scale back maintenance flights during hunting, trapping, and calling seasons to allow sportsmen their opportunities.
Coyotes' dispersal and repopulation abilities are remarkable. Late fall and winter are particularly challenging for predator control, as clearing an area often feels like trying to reach the bottom of a pool full of marbles. Starting focused efforts from late January through April ensures the lowest possible predation losses.
How You Can Help
1. Communication: Let Robbie or Chad know if you're interested in maintenance efforts. Communication is the key to effective predator control.
2. Sign Up for Aerial Services: If you haven't signed a permission form yet, please contact one of the predator board members to get one.
Thank you all for renewing our contract. We look forward to serving you in 2025.
God Bless,
Dustin Drews
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