Doe Rodeo in Lowndes County pushes to final drop-off for deer on New Year's Day

Despite 10 straight days of rain, hunters and organizers pressed forward at the third annual Doe Rodeo in Lowndes County, determined to surpass last year’s milestone harvest and provide venison for families in need across Alabama’s Black Belt. 

Event coordinator Demp Bell reported that 122 does had been collected by mid-December, with hunters continuing to drop off deer daily at Cornwallis. The final tally will be announced on New Year’s Day, following the traditional holiday push hunt. Organizers are confident the effort will reach and likely exceed the goal of 200 does. 

Each harvested deer yields an average of 35 pounds of processed venison. If the target is met, the rodeo could produce nearly 7,000 pounds of meat, enough to serve an estimated 28,000 people through regional food banks. Last year’s total of 126 does provided meals for more than 15,000 residents.  

“It’s a way for hunters to give back,” Bell said. “Venison is a wonderful source of protein, and this helps families who need it most, especially during the holidays.” 

The main event, held Dec. 14, drew a strong crowd once the morning rain cleared. National speakers, vendors, and outdoor exhibitors joined the festivities, while the Alabama Bow Hunter Association hosted bow tournaments and skeet shooting contests. Attendees enjoyed ribs and Boston butt prepared by Brad Shackelford of Vernon, adding a festive flavor to the day. 

Bell noted that hunters are still encouraged to participate, with a new drop-off point established at 10 West Deer Processing on Highway 10 near Pineapple. There, deer will be gutted and skinned before being sent to processors for distribution. 

Organizers are already planning next year’s Doe Rodeo, with discussions underway to expand the season kickoff to Thanksgiving weekend and continue through the end of deer season. The main celebration will remain on the second weekend of December. 

For now, Bell says the focus is on finishing strong: “Hunters are dropping them off daily, and we’re updating totals on Facebook. We should finish at 200 pretty doggone easy.”