Use citric acid to treat and protect the meat.

http://www.outdoorsdirectory.com/magazine/citric_acid.htm

It allows for shorter, lighter tripods.
Easier for multiple people to use.
Less frequent tripod adjustments.
It is easier to bend me neck down than up.

Not sure if this is north and west enough for you, but both of these guys are terrific and do wonderful work! That I can guarantee.

Custom Birdworks (Dale)
1615 Montana Street
Missoula, MT. ...