Advocacy

The Deer & Elk Industry Supports North Carolina Jobs and Families!

North Carolina is a strong agriculture state that works to provide a business climate that creates jobs. Scattered across the state are deer and elk farmers that improve the North Carolina economy in several ways.

Did You Know?

• The North Carolina deer and elk industry contributes to the nation's $4 billion dollar cervid industry.
• NC deer and elk farmers contribute to the states economy by purchasing NC grains and farm supplies.
• Domestic deer and elk farming could provide the sole income for many North Carolina families.
• Most deer and elk farms are family operations. Some of these farms are second and third generation owners.
• Domestic deer and elk can be raised on marginal land that could not otherwise be useful for cattle or farmland.
• Elk meat and venison is fast growing red meat alternative. It is high in protein, low cholesterol, low fat, and sold in many venues.
• Elk burgers and steaks could commonly be sold in local farmers markets and restaurants.
• Velvet antler is harvested from farmed elk bulls and bucks that are used to make medicines to help relieve arthritis and other muscle ailments.
• Farmed elk and deer could produce many commodities that are exported bringing out of state dollars to North Carolina.
• Farmed deer and elk are routinely vaccinated, wormed, tested,and well fed every day making them the healthiest cervids in the state.
• North Carolina has been a home to domestic elk and deer farms dating back to 1908 according to, USDA Deer Farming in the United States.
• There are many different breeds of deer raised by ranchers in North Carolina.
• The biggest threat to North Carolina deer and elk farmers and their businesses is over-regulation and inaccurate information.