Why Did My Deer Stand Deteriorate So Quickly?

I love to deer hunt and have many friends that do also.  In the US South we are in the harshest decay zone due to our high temperatures and humidity.   Therefore, any wood in contact with the ground must be naturally decay-resistant or preservative-treated for ground contact.  Second, wood composites such as particleboard are a bad idea.  The panels will swell and fail very quickly.  A better option is treated OSB or plywood.  Make sure your ladder to get to your stand is in good condition.  There are far too many preventable human deaths each year in deer stands.  Be safe!