Food plots very attractive to wildlife enthusiasts

Whether you are a photographer, a hunter, or just like viewing wildlife on a sunny afternoon, anyone who has spent time overlooking a food plot will have a deep appreciation for wildlife plantings.

Food plots are very attractive to wildlife enthusiasts because they can supplement daily nutritional needs at a low cost. These plots can be designed to serve as a source of food and cover. Well-managed food plots have the potential

to not only increase the wildlife population and their quality of health, but can also increase our opportunities for wildlife viewing.

To aid landowners who would like Cummins to plant wildlife food plots, Wildlife Mississippi is continuing its popular Wildlife Habitat Seed Program. Through this program, Wildlife Mississippi will make seed available at a minimal cost.

The Wildlife Habitat

If planted properly, the food plot will be utilized by a variety of species of wildlife. White-tailed deer, turkeys, bobwhite quail, mourning doves, waterfowl, and many species of songbirds will benefit from the planting of the seed that is offered.

The guidelines regarding this program are simple and easy to follow. Anyone interested in obtaining seed should place their order no later than August 3. Orders are fulfilled on a first come, first serve basis.

Shipping and handling charges incurred by Wildlife Mississippi are included in the price of the seed. The cost will be $9 per 50-pound bag of winter wheat. Pick up locations will be Amory, Greenville, Hattiesburg, and Madison.

For an order form and planting recommendations for this beneficial program, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Wildlife Mississippi, P.O. Box 10, Stoneville, MS 38776. If you wish to place your order online, please visit our website at www.wildlifemiss.org/seed.

James L. Cummins is executive director of Wildlife Mississippi, a non-profit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi. Their website is www. wildlifemiss.org. The opinions in this column are Cummins' and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Starkville Daily News or its staff.