BISMARCK – The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is offering free seed for the 2024 growing season to landowners interested in planting wildlife food plots for pheasants.
Instead of a traditional corn or sunflower food plot, the department said its seed mix increases plant diversity, including flowering plants from spring to fall, which will attract insects, the main component of pheasant chicks food. Additionally, the mix will provide much-needed cover during the spring and summer, as well as a food source in the winter. Other wildlife species will also benefit from the mix, according to the department’s news release.
Most Game and Fish food plots are part of the department’s Private Land Open To Sportsmen (PLOTS) program, but this food plot campaign does not require a PLOTS contract. The department asks participating landowners to allow reasonable public access, which may mean only giving access to hunters occasionally, posting “Ask Before You Enter” signs around place or not place the surrounding land. Additionally, landowners participating in the promotion may not charge a fee for hunting.
Game and Fish will provide enough seed for a maximum 5-acre planting at no charge.
Landowners interested in receiving food plot seed must sign up online by April 5. Seed will be available in April at Game and Fish offices in Bismarck, Jamestown, Devils Lake, Harvey, Dickinson, Williston and Riverdale.
Game and Fish private land biologists can provide technical assistance with food plot location and site preparation.
Landowners interested in additional financial incentives may be considered for the PLOTS program, as well. More information is available by contacting a private land biologist at any state Game and Fish office or emailing [email protected].
