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Many landowners and hunters dream of improving their land to support healthier wildlife populations and more sustainable ecosystems. However, achieving these goals often requires a shift in mindset and a commitment to better land stewardship. For Dr. Grant Woods, a leading expert in wildlife biology and regenerative agriculture, the key lies in starting from the ground up—literally.

“My focus has always been on improving soil health,” Dr. Woods says. “Big antlers start in the dirt. If you want healthier deer and better hunting success, you need to get your soil in shape first.”

Dr. Woods has spent decades teaching hunters and landowners how to implement regenerative practices that benefit both the land and its inhabitants.

What Is Regenerative Agriculture?

At its core, regenerative agriculture is about restoring the natural balance of ecosystems. According to Dr. Woods, “It’s simply returning soil health, water health, and the health of energy systems—like sunlight—to the land. Most land is degraded, but the good news is that it can be regenerated to a high level of productivity for wildlife, crops, or livestock.”

This approach is particularly relevant for hunters. “If you want to create better habitats for deer and other wildlife, you have to start with the soil,” he emphasizes.

Building Resilient Ecosystems for Wildlife and Agriculture

One of the primary goals of regenerative agriculture is to create ecosystems that can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as droughts and floods. Dr. Woods shares a recent success story: “A big storm came through our area, dropping over six inches of rain. In our food plots, which follow regenerative practices, we had zero erosion. The mulch and living roots held the soil in place, and the healthy soil soaked up water like a sponge.”

Regenerative Agriculture for Hunters

A key objective of regenerative agriculture is to foster ecosystems that can remain resilient in the face of extreme weather events, including droughts and floods.

This resilience isn’t just beneficial for the environment; it also supports wildlife. Diverse plantings, a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture, provide a steady food supply for deer and other animals throughout the year. “A mix of grasses, legumes, broadleaves, and root crops benefits the soil and supports wildlife. Each plant contributes something different, whether it’s adding nitrogen to the soil or providing varied nutrition for animals,” Dr. Woods explains.

Food Plots Done Right

For hunters, food plots are a key tool in managing deer populations. Dr. Woods advocates for no-till planting and the use of cover crops to maximize the benefits of these plots. “No-till planting preserves the microbial life in the soil, and cover crops provide year-round protection for the soil while feeding wildlife,” he says.

Diversity is also critical. “I like to plant blends that include members of each of the four main plant families—grasses, legumes, broadleaves, and root crops. This not only benefits the soil but also creates a more attractive and nutritious food source for deer,” he notes.

Dr. Woods encourages hunters to take advantage of resources like the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), which offers no-till drills for rent at affordable rates. “It’s a game-changer,” he adds.

Leaving a Legacy

For many landowners, regenerative agriculture is about more than immediate benefits—it’s about building a legacy. “Improving the land’s productivity and resilience ensures it’s better for future generations,” Dr. Woods says. “Whether you’re growing timber, crops, or managing it for wildlife, healthier land is more valuable and enjoyable to pass down.”

On his own property, Dr. Woods has seen long-term benefits like reduced input costs, healthier deer populations, and more sustainable land management practices. “Not having to pay for lime or fertilizer, seeing green fields all summer during a drought, and knowing you’re feeding your family healthier food—it’s incredibly rewarding,” he reflects.

Practical Advice for Beginners

For those new to regenerative practices, Dr. Woods emphasizes education as the first step. “Listen to podcasts, watch YouTube videos, and learn from others who are already doing this,” he advises.

When it comes to action, he says the most impactful change is simple: “Do not disturb the soil. Healthy soil can’t reach its full potential if it’s being plowed, disked, or chemically treated unnecessarily.”

food plot

For many landowners, regenerative agriculture goes beyond short-term gains—it’s about creating a lasting legacy.

He also highlights the importance of setting clear goals. “Too often, landowners try to do everything at once and get frustrated. Write down your objectives—whether it’s wildlife management, timber production, or both—and tailor your practices to meet those goals,” he suggests.

The Future of Regenerative Agriculture

Dr. Woods is optimistic about the growing interest in regenerative agriculture. “The more we learn, the brighter the future looks,” he says. “These practices aren’t just good for the environment—they’re good for your wallet, your family, and your hunting success.”

For those ready to take the first step, Dr. Woods recommends starting small. “Even a two-acre food plot managed with regenerative principles can make a difference. From there, you can expand your efforts and watch your land transform,” he says.

Where to Learn More

Dr. Woods shares his expertise through Growing Deer, an online platform offering resources and tips for landowners and hunters. “We want to help people make their land better,” he says.

By adopting regenerative practices, hunters and landowners can create thriving ecosystems that support wildlife, reduce costs, and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. As Dr. Woods puts it, “Healthy soil is the foundation of everything—better deer, better crops, and a better future.”