There is no other ranch in the northern latitudes with such a diverse ecosystem as the Drettmann Ranch. Nearly 800 acres in size, the variety of habitat within the perimeters of the ranch makes it seem much larger than it is. Nearly half of the ranch consists of rolling hardwood ridges containing maple, ash and beech trees. The properties landscape then drops in elevation to thick cedar swamps where numerous creeks and streams flow into the dense thickets of tag elders, windfalls and beaver dams. The thick lowlands and cedar swamp serve as a safe haven for the deer.

Even though this exceptional ecosystem is prime habitat for the whietail, many projects have been accomplished to further enhance the overall structure of the land. Managing the land is just as important as managing the deer herd. Throughout the ranch, nutritional food plots are strategically placed to supplement the food source. The diversity of the ranch not only supplies food, cover and seclusion for the whitetail, it also presents an ultimate wilderness challenge of a lifetime.

A timber management program was established to clear some of the 70-year old forests to make way for lush food plots. Other sections of poplar have been clear cut to create another source of food and cover. Selective cutting is underway to create a healthier forest. In the beginning only 30 acres of food plots were located within the ranch. Since that time, an additional 30 acres have been added which now total over 10% of the entire habitat.