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An example sprig of side oats gamma grass.
The Benefits of CRP, Native Vegetation

The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a voluntary incentive-based program administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) that was started in 1985, initially to deal with soil erosion and stabilize commodity prices. This was quickly expanded to include enhancement of wildlife habitat.

A collage of two photos over a brown wood graphic. The photos show McCurtain County farmer John Sanders has been selected as the 2025 Landowner Conservationist of the Year by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Sanders Selected Landowner Conservationist of the Year

McCurtain County farmer John Sanders has been selected as the 2025 Landowner Conservationist of the Year by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. 

A photo of a good example of diverse habitat in Oklahoma. Trees in the distance, tall grass and a large field can be seen.
Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Occupant

When I’m out talking to landowners, there is one phrase I hear quite often. “This place will look a whole lot better when I get it cleaned up.” Sometimes they are right; but often, when it comes to improvements for wildlife, they are mistaken.

A scaled quail is standing on a barbed-wire post.
Beyond the Bobwhite: Oklahoma’s “Other” Quail

When you hear the word “quail,” you likely picture the familiar northern bobwhite and its distinctive whistle. But Oklahoma is actually home to two species of quail: the widespread northern bobwhite, and the scaled quail.

A photo of ideal deer habitat of mixed vegetation.
Strategies for Deer Management on Private Lands

White-tailed deer are Oklahoma’s most popular game animal, and recent harvest numbers show their strong presence across the state. With record antlerless harvests and a mix of public and private land hunting opportunities, landowners play a vital role in sustaining healthy deer populations.

Mourning dove on log. Photo by Stephen Ofsthun
Oklahoma’s Dove Species – ID and Habitats

Generations of family and friends have long enjoyed dove hunts. No expensive gear is needed, and with the right setup, you can even carry on a leisurely conversation without the fear of alerting your quarry. But did you know there are three species of dove that hunters can pursue in the Sooner State?

A pair of Oklahoma prairie chickens in a field.
Efforts Continue to Monitor, Help Prairie-Chicken Numbers

Prairie-chicken numbers in Oklahoma have fallen over the last 30 years, but landowners and agencies are teaming up to restore grasslands and bring these iconic birds back.

A dead tree hangs off the branch of a living tree, making this tree deadly and known as a widowmaker.
Widowmakers: Hazardous Habitat

Oklahoma’s forests are full of hidden hazards after severe weather. Learn what “widowmakers” are, why they matter, and how spotting and safely removing them can keep you — and your property — out of harm’s way.

A small pond surrounded by tall grass and fields under a cloudy sky.
Assessing Your Farm Pond fishery

Managing your farm pond starts with understanding what’s beneath the surface. Learn simple ways to assess your pond, set goals, and get expert help when you need it—all while making the most of your water.

A camera on a tripod points to a field of grass and trees.
Using a Photo Point to Monitor a Year’s Growth

We visited a Lexington WMA photo point every month in 2024 to track the before and after views of a prescribed fire.