In September 2026, the Commission voted to approve a change to MDWFP's supplemental feeding regulations. The change addresses how feed may be provided to wildlife on private lands. The information below explains the updated requirements and answers common questions.
The most effective strategy for managing Mississippi's deer population remains consistent: prioritize habitat management, maintain year-round food plots, and keep herd densities within the natural carrying capacity of the land. Supplemental feeding is rarely necessary given Mississippi's favorable environmental conditions.
While some hunters use feeders for scouting, research indicates that artificial congregation significantly increases health risks. Troughs and gravity feeders create direct contact points that facilitate the spread of parasites and diseases, such as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Even when broadcast feeding is used to reduce contact, it still disrupts natural spacing among wildlife. In the wild, physical distance is nature's best defense; keeping deer apart ensures healthier populations for the whole herd.
Yes. Supplemental feeding of wildlife remains legal on private lands in Mississippi, except within Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Management Zones.
Please note: Under Mississippi Code § 49-7-33, it is unlawful to hunt, trap, or kill any wild animal with the aid of bait.
Outside of CWD Management Zones, feed may only be provided through above-ground covered feeders, spin-cast feeders, or by evenly broadcasting, distributing, or scattering feed across the landscape. All feed and feeders must be located at least 100 yards from property lines.
There are no specific restrictions on the method used to broadcast feed.
Acceptable/Legal methods include spreading by hand, using a handheld spreader, an electric ATV/UTV spreader, or a tractor PTO-driven spreader.
No closer than 100 yards.
No, this is NOT legal and is very dangerous to wildlife.
Corn and other small grains are highly susceptible to toxic fungal spores that grow quickly in Mississippi's climate. These spores, specifically Aflatoxins, can kill turkeys in a few days and deer in a week or two.
Any feed product placed in a manner contrary to the approved methods outlined in Rule 2.4, Section C, will be considered baiting and is illegal.
Yes, they remain legal outside of designated CWD Management Zones.
It is important to note that while salt and minerals are found naturally in Mississippi’s landscape, artificial blocks attract and congregate wildlife in ways that do not occur in nature. This concentration raises the risk of disease spread. Consequently, while permitted by law, the MDWFP advises against using artificial salt and mineral blocks for biological safety reasons.
Food plots.
Food plots provide much more food over a larger area. The plantings are growing vertically above the soil in the field, thereby creating less contact with soil-borne pathogens, feces, and urine. In addition to supplemental feeders creating more artificial congregation, researchers at Mississippi State University have documented increased nighttime behavior at feeders compared with food plots.
A. To properly manage wildlife in Mississippi, MDWFP Biologists recommend a complete wildlife management program which includes:
B. It shall be unlawful to feed any wild animals or game birds except as provided in this rule.
C. Supplemental Feeding of Wild Animals and Game Birds: It shall be lawful to feed wild animals and game birds, on private lands, subject to the following restrictions: