Seed available at conservation office for wildlife food plots

Jasper County Pheasants Forever has sorghum seed available for landowners interested in planting a wildlife food plot.

The seed is free of charge and can be picked up at the County Annex Building in the Jasper County Conservation Board office, located at 115 N. Second Ave. E. in Newton. There is a limited amount available. For more information, contact the conservation office at (641) 792-9780.

Planting food plots is a great way to improve wildlife habitat and diversity. Food plots provide nutrition for wildlife, especially in adverse winter conditions. Plant species selection in food plots will vary for what type of species a landowner is managing for, but most people choose to plant corn, sorghum, alfalfa, millet, soybeans or sunflowers.

Many people think food plots are the answer to bringing back the pheasants and quail or promoting high quality bucks. However, it isn’t that easy. Wildlife habitat is made up of four components: food, water, shelter and space. Each species has different requirements of each of these components. Landowners who think of new ways to improve all aspects of the habitat on their land will be rewarded by seeing more of their favorite species in no time.