Whether hunting for turkey, deer or other prey, don’t use invasive plants as a natural hunting blind. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

By Erika Segerson-Mueller, DNR Invasive Plant Program Specialist, Oshkosh Service Center;
Erika.SegersonMueller@wisconsin.gov or 715-492-0391

As fall settles in and hunting seasons start to open across the state, many Wisconsinites’ thoughts have turned to tree stands, blinds and all things hunting.

Planning out your perfect capture means giving yourself the best chance possible, whether slipping into or out of your tree stand or ground blind. One popular idea is camouflaging your path – using plants or trees as a natural blind so you can reach your spot without being seen by deer or other animals.

If you use invasive plants for this natural blind, this idea may backfire. Often marketed as quick or easy growing,  invasive plants are also quick spreading. They may grow tall and dense to provide cover, but that cover can easily take over areas and create infestations, shading out native plants and deterring deer browse.

The costs of planting invasive species in your favorite hunting spot will far outweigh any benefits provided by their cover. Deer and other wildlife browse primarily on native plants, so when invasive plants push out natives, less wildlife will visit what may have been your prime hunting spot. Though your hunting blind may be improving as invasives grow, the surrounding areas will not.

Dense, impenetrable blinds made of invasive plants can also interfere with tree regeneration. Further, increased thatch from dense populations of invasive plants is a fire hazard.

Instead of planting with invasives, purchase a hunting blind or use natural materials that can be easily found around your site. While it’s a bit too late for food plot planting this season, an alternative is to create a natural ground blind using native limbs, brush and foliage. Fallen tree branches, saplings and grass are likely available near your desired location.

For future seasons, plant native species that will be palatable to deer while still providing cover for your spot. Planting food plots is popular; many companies offer specific mixes for this purpose. Always check the ingredients of any mixes you purchase to ensure plants that are included are not invasive.

If invasive plants already exist in your favorite hunting spot, try to avoid walking through patches when getting to your stand and don’t set up within an infestation. Walking or dragging equipment through existing invasive plants can spread seeds, increasing infestation size further.

Although invasive plants can easily spread via seeds on vehicles, boots and other gear, there are a few precautions you can take to avoid spreading invasive plants this hunting season:

• Inspect your clothes, vehicle, gear and dogs both before and after each hunt.
• Pack a boot brush in your vehicle so you can easily remove plants, seeds and mud from your boots and gear before leaving the site.
• If possible, park in non-vegetated areas to avoid carrying seeds on your vehicle.
• Learn to identify the invasive species common to your area so you know what to look for on your next hunting trip and can better aid in slowing the spread of invasive plants.

Learn more about best management practices for hunters and trappers on this DNR fact sheet, or check out the Best Management Practices for outdoor recreationists on the Wisconsin Council on Forestry’s page.

Invasive species threaten the future of hunting and fishing. Defend your favorite places by taking these precautions and helping to slow the spread of invasive plants on your next hunt.