What Makes a Great Deer Farmer?
What makes a great deer farmer? I have pondered this question more than once. Now…. I am not an expert, but I am going to give it a shot. Deer farming is still fairly new to me so I am going to be pulling on my extensive four years worth of experience. <wink wink> I have had the pleasure of visiting several deer farms, meeting lots of deer farmers at conferences and following multiple deer farms on social media and let me tell ya, I have been awed by what I have witnessed. Glimpses into their lives that showcase how exceptional they are at what they do. It’s hard to put it all into words, but I’ve concluded there are a few common denominators with folks who have earned the title of a great deer farmer; I hope ya’ll will agree with me.
HEART: Deer farmers must have heart; a strong admiration for, and respect for, all of God’s creation. They need a strong hand with a gentle touch that honors the animals under their care. Someone with the drive to cultivate their LOVE for this way of life. Someone that isn’t bothered to put in the extra effort and spend their time in the pens, in the fields, or in the barn; day or night. They have Grit (not just the dirt that gets everywhere), and grace as they tackle each and every farm project. Someone whose heart grows a size or two with every fawn that drops each season.
Heart makes a great deer farmer.
LOVES ANIMALS: I believe this one just goes without saying. There must be a love in protecting and caring for animals because…. Well… that’s the job. But, it’s more than that. Someone that feels a sense of joy from walking in the deer pen each day. They are in awe as the deer come closer and closer, finally building trust with each other. The pride they feel as the fawns age and the antlers grow each year.
Love makes a great deer farmer.
A NEED TO BE OUTDOORS: A deer farmer should have a profound love of the great outdoors. There needs to be a driving force to honor and restore as much of nature as they can. They have the knowledge that conservation is key to holding on to our natural habitats. They strive to have a positive impact on the natural world that will sustain its beauty and grace for generations to come. They know that fresh air and sunshine are the best medicine, even though our society has forgotten the importance of connecting with the natural world around them. While they have a desire to learn about and protect the world, they particularly love their own space; their small slice of heaven. Their deer farm, local hunting spots and fishing holes are their oasis. They connect with nature in a way that fills their soul. On the hottest of hot days or in the bitter cold winter months, the desire to be outside caring for their herd and being immersed in nature is strong.
A need to be outdoors makes a great deer farmer.
FAMILY: A deer farmer values their family and knows it is a precious commodity, and they have built their farm with this focus. They know that involving younger generations in the inner workings of a deer farm will instill an appreciation for all of God’s creatures. They are not afraid to ask for help from siblings, parents, friends, neighbors or farm managers. Everyone works together to keep all things running smoothly. Their herd is also considered part of their family and is just as precious. They have a high attention to detail and keep an eye on everyone and everything. They know that sacrifice is necessary and do not hesitate to do what is right and needed for their family. They have faith that their efforts are fundamental in ensuring the connection of their family. They know that the deer farming industry is unique. It’s more than just a focus on the bottom line and dollars earned. There is a camaraderie that runs deep. It’s an extended family, really. Dedicated to the animals they raise, their fellow deer farmers and preserving this special way of life. They know that attending conferences and connecting with their extended deer farming family is fundamental. The relationships created with other deer farmers across the nation are paramount, just like family.
A strong family makes a great deer farmer.
All the Kansas folks in attendance at the North American Deer Farmers Association Conference : March 2026
A RISK TAKER: A deer farmer that is not afraid of high stakes. While others may consider them crazy, they are undeterred and put up their high fence anyway. They can step outside of their comfort zone and learn how to care for wildlife and exotic species. Someone that is dedicated to finding or doing the research necessary to ensure their animals thrive. They know that trying new methods, techniques, or nutrition is crucial. They are the first to propose a new plan or protocol change. They believe in the deer farming industry and only want to keep it moving forward. They have the firm belief that this is a positive contribution in the agricultural world. They know that alternative livestock is necessary for the diversity of farms, but also for the betterment of our world through conservation.
Being a risk taker makes a great deer farmer.
Greatness comes from the willingness to do extraordinary things and honestly what is more extraordinary than raising wildlife? A great deer farmer, whether they have been in the industry for 1 year or 36 years, has precision in their methods. They consistently continue to reach beyond the norm, and relentlessly chase their dreams.
Have you ever met a great deer farmer?
~The Deer Wife
