Thomas Mlsna, founder of Untamed Ambition, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of trail cameras in hunting preparation. In this conversation, Jon Teater and Thomas discuss various topics related to hunting property design and management. They cover the importance of wet meadows in hunting properties, the use of compost teas to promote microbial activity in food plots, and the challenges of balancing soil health and weed control. They also touch on the concept of solarization, the benefits of diverse plant blends, and the value of focusing on the surrounding habitat rather than just food plots. Additionally, they discuss the use of herbicides, the benefits of no-till drilling, and the importance of soil amendments in timber areas. In this conversation, Jon Teater and Thomas discuss the importance of long-term habitat management and the role of consultants in implementing systems and routines. They emphasize the need to address weak points on the property and improve soil health through methods like fertilization and introducing organic matter. They also discuss the value of fire as a tool for cycling through vegetation and the challenges of using prescribed fire in certain areas. They highlight the significance of diversity in habitat and the impact of food plots on the surrounding environment. They encourage listeners to observe and experiment with different amendments and plant species to improve their habitat. Finally, they provide some quick tips for improving habitat before hunting season, including timber stand improvement, burning, and scouting.

Takeaways:

• Trail cameras only tell you where you should have been, not where you should be.
• Trail cameras only tell you what is happening directly in front of them.
• Pressure is anything that causes stress or discomfort on a deer to a level that it's going to change their behavior.
• There are really only two things that reduce pressure on deer. It is cover and consistency in pressure or lack thereof.
• Topography is the greatest form of cover there is.
• Variation in food value, a variation in food type composition is extremely important.

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