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This week, on Deer and Wildlife Stories, host Keith Warren visits Black Label Whitetails, a premier deer breeding operation in Portland, Michigan. The owner, Ryan Halfman, and his family are using scientifically proven technology to make their deer herd more resistant to chronic wasting disease. Black Label focuses on this CWD resistance while producing high-quality whitetails with strong genetics, size, and aesthetics.

Ryan and his family also emphasize sustainable farming practices and discuss how there is no better way to raise their young children than on a deer farm. This upbringing will teach these kids respect for wildlife, the importance of hard work and commitment, and a love of nature.

In this episode, Keith Warren takes a closer look at Black Label Whitetails’ breeding strategies, which include a unique focus on yearlings and the markers found in does. Keith shares his philosophy that one should never rule out a yearling, as deer between one and two years old can make a significant leap in their size and genetics, and Halfman is inclined to agree. By examining the genetic markers in does and breeding accordingly, Black Label Whitetails ensures that their herd continues to grow stronger and more resilient to CWD with each generation.

A key factor in the success of Black Label Whitetails lies in their use of Genetic Estimated Breeding Values (GEBV) testing through the North American Deer Registry (NADR). Halfman explains that understanding the genetic makeup of each deer is essential for the long-term sustainability of the operation. One of their original does, RED 19, was identified as an SS Marker Doe, which means when bred to an SS buck, every offspring she produces will have the SS marker which is scientifically proven to be more resistant to CWD. This attention to detail helps improve the quality and predictability of their herd while at the same time combating the CWD issue.

For those looking to enter the deer farming business or improve their herds, Black Label Whitetails offers valuable insights into effective breeding strategies, genetic testing, and sustainable herd management practices. Ryan Halfman and his family’s commitment to excellence serves as a model for others in the industry.

About Black Label Whitetails:
Black Label Whitetails is a family-operated deer breeding business based in Portland, MI, led by owner Ryan Halfman. The operation focuses on raising high-quality whitetail deer with strong genetics, size, and disease resistance. Black Label Whitetails is committed to using advanced breeding technologies and genetic testing to improve the quality and sustainability of their herd, ensuring future generations of exceptional whitetails.

Deer and Wildlife Stories is a renowned platform for the whitetail deer enthusiast. By focusing on captive deer farming, this program shares valuable scientific information that can only be obtained through the captive breeding of deer. This information is proving valuable to the country's professional wildlife biologists as they make management decisions for the nation’s wild deer population.

To see more from Deer and Wildlife Stories, visit deerandwildlifestories.com or follow us on Facebook and YouTube.

About The High Road Group:
The High Road Group is a fully integrated, one-stop-shop media production company specializing in outdoor industry content creation. From short-form digital media assets to full-length television programs and documentaries, we create and distribute content across various platforms for more than two dozen outdoor industry brands.

Visit www.highroadhunting.com for more information on opportunities with The High Road Group. Email johnny@highroadhunting.com