Swift Wildlife Refuge near Cresbard, South Dakota, is a priceless pheasant hunting property that has been within the same family since 1883. With 580 acres of manicured shelter belts and tens of thousands of trees planted over the years, the refuge provides a diverse and thriving habitat for various wildlife species, including pheasants, whitetail deer, and waterfowl. Paired with the farm is a charming turnkey lodge, which is down the road.
Lodge
The ranch includes a four-bedroom and two-and-half-bathroom farmhouse converted into a lodge to host friends and family. The farmhouse is ideal for large crowds with 11 beds, a garage, a partially fenced yard, and an entertainment room equipped with a bar, TV, furniture, mounts, and a pool table.
Habitat
The presence of creek bottoms, abundant water sources, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) areas, crop grounds, and tree rows on the property creates a dream environment for supporting a healthy ecosystem and attracting a high number of wildlife. This diverse mix of habitats contributes to the refuges ability to produce large whitetails and sustain exceptional pheasant populations.
Agriculture
Approximately 390 acres of the farm are tillable. However, 300 acres are currently farmed, and the remaining 90 acres are pasture. The farming is leased through harvest to the farm manager who would love to stay on if a Buyer so chooses. The longstanding agreement with the farmer includes keeping corn and sorghum or millet strips standing until the owner is done hunting. Several locations around the farm are food plot areas that are not harvested - aiding in the overwintering of wildlife.
Location
Cresbard, South Dakota is located 45 minutes southwest of Aberdeen and over an hour east of the Missouri River. Aberdeen, which has a population of approximately 30,000, serves as a regional hub for healthcare facilities, retail, restaurants, commercial air services, and other services in northeastern South Dakota. Aberdeen, South Dakota is in the heartland of the Pheasant Capital of the World. The regions diverse landscape includes farmlands, grasslands, wetlands, and shelter belts, providing ideal habitat for pheasants to thrive.
Summary
For individuals interested in wildlife conservation, hunting, or simply enjoying nature, Swift Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic destination to experience the beauty and richness of the worlds pheasant capital, South Dakota.