Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The 2012 Pronghorn Antelope and Elk Hunt Draw Information regulations booklet has been posted online at www.azgfd.gov/draw.

Hunters can now start applying for a hunt permit-tag issued through the drawing process.

Paper applications can be submitted either by U.S. mail to Arizona Game and Fish Department, P.O. Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052, or hand-delivered to any Game and Fish office.

The online application service for this draw is expected to be available by early to mid January 2012.

The deadline to apply is Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012 by 7 p.m. (MST). For those mailing their application, remember, postmarks do not count.

A 2012 hunting license is required to apply in the draw, and hunters are reminded that licenses purchased through the draw will not be mailed out until after the drawing process is completed.

2012 Arizona Pronghorn & Elk Hunt Draw Booklet Is Online

Licenses can also be purchased online at the Game and Fish website, and also at Game and Fish offices and more than 300 license dealers statewide.

Please keep in mind that you must have a working printer handy if you purchase your license online. The online system is self-fulfilling and you must print your license at time of purchase.

Apply early to take advantage of the “correction period.” If your application has an error and is received before 5 p.m. on Jan. 20, 2012, you will receive up to three phone calls from Game and Fish in a 24-hour period to help get the application corrected.

After that date, mistakes can cause your application to be rejected.

The printed elk and antelope draw information/regulations booklets are anticipated to be available at department offices and at license dealers statewide around mid January 2012.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department does not receive any of the state’s general funds (tax revenues) to operate.

Wildlife conservation and management of the state’s game animals, which also benefits many nongame species, is made possible through the direct sale of hunting and fishing licenses, big game tags, and matching funds from the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program, a federal excise tax on certain hunting and fishing equipment.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Did you get a second spring hunt-permit tag in the mail from the Arizona Game and Fish Department?

No, it wasn’t an early Christmas present. It was a simple error, so don’t make a serious mistake that could cost you.

“Since we had to print all 22,000-plus tags in house, we did encounter a few problems with the printers,” said Kathy Ford, the draw manager.

Ford explained that the bad tags were pulled and placed in a box for destruction.

“However with all the hard-working volunteers we had helping us stuff envelopes, those bad tags inadvertently got stuffed and mailed too,” she said.

Around 50 duplicate hunt tags for javelina and turkey were mailed.

This isn’t like playing Monopoly with a bank error in your favor – it would be illegal to use the second tag.

The legal annual bag and possession limit for turkey and javelina is one animal. If you harvest two animals (except as prescribed by R12-4-120), you could face serious consequences, including possible criminal fines, civil fines and even the loss the hunting, fishing and trapping privileges for up to five years.

Don’t let this error cost you in the end – destroy the second tag, don’t be tempted to use it.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Gov. Jan Brewer today announced the appointment of Kurt R. Davis to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

“Kurt possesses a wealth of expertise in government, communications and business,” said Gov Brewer. “In addition to an eclectic professional background, Kurt is both well-liked and well-versed in issues affecting the Arizona outdoors. He will be a tremendous asset to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.”

An avid hunter and fisherman, Davis is currently a founding partner at FirstStrategic Communications & Public Affairs, where he specializes in strategic public policy development for non-profit clients, issues relating to rural Arizona, and government relations. He also is on the board of directors of Great Hearts Academies, the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, and ASU’s Ramsey Executive Program for Public Policy.

Prior to forming FirstStrategic, Davis served as the vice president of public affairs & marketing at Northern Arizona University. Earlier, he was vice president of public affairs & corporate communications at Rural/Metro, a company that provides fire and ambulance services to communities across the country.

Before joining Rural/Metro, Davis was a deputy chief of staff and executive assistant in the office of former Arizona Gov. Fife Symington. In that role, he had direct oversight of executive agencies such as the departments of Transportation and Corrections. He has also served as director of intergovernmental affairs & issues analysis at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, and executive director of the Arizona Republican Party.

Davis has held a variety of state and federal appointments, including with the Arizona Board of Regents and Arizona State Board of Charter Schools, as well as with the administration of President Ronald Reagan, the U.S. Department of Education, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. He received a Bachelor of Science from Northern Arizona University in 1984.

Davis awaits confirmation by the Arizona State Senate before joining the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. His appointment was made to fill the upcoming vacancy that will be created by the departure from the commission of Robert Woodhouse, whose term is expiring.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game And Fish Commission Sets 23,383 Permits For Elk

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Commission approved the 2012 hunt seasons for elk and pronghorn antelope during its Dec. 3 meeting in Phoenix, paving the way for hunters to start applying once they have the pertinent information available online in mid December.

The Game and Fish Commission set 23,383 hunt permit-tags for elk (down 1,035 from last year). The commission also set 788 hunt permit-tags for pronghorn antelope (down 21).

Don’t forget that the hunt-permit application deadline for elk and antelope is 7 p.m. MST Feb. 14 at all seven department offices – postmarks don’t count.

The department anticipates having elk and antelope regulations posted online by mid December. Once that is done, hunters can begin submitting applications.

The printed elk and antelope regulations for 2012 will be mailed to license dealers at the end of December and should be available the first week of January.

Keep in mind that the online application process is back and is expected to be available in December, but it may not be available right when the regulations are posted. The department will send out a notification about when the online application process will be available to submit applications for elk and antelope.

Hunters applying manually via the paper applications will want to jot down this date: Jan. 20, which ends the correction period. During the correction period, if you make a mistake on your submitted application, the department will make three attempts within a 24-hour period to notify you by telephone (if a phone number is provided), and give you a chance to correct the mistake.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department Unveils HabiMap Arizona

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department has launched an innovative new tool that utilizes the latest mapping technology to put wildlife data at your fingertips.

HabiMap Arizona is a user-friendly, web-based data viewer that allows users to visually explore the distribution of the state’s wildlife, wildlife conservation potential, and stressors to wildlife.

“This is a great example of how technology can be used to assist in transparent wildlife conservation and project planning,” said Arizona Game and Fish Department Director Larry Voyles.

“We’re excited to offer a tool that not only allows the department to better manage wildlife at a statewide scale, but also can be used to help address the growth needs of our state.”

Information available through HabiMap Arizona is non-regulatory and may be useful in making decisions about our state’s future growth by considering wildlife early in the planning process. Tools such as HabiMap Arizona can help ensure that current and future generations are able to experience Arizona’s rich wildlife heritage.

“I can’t think of a better way for the Arizona Game and Fish Department to proactively plan for the future of Arizona’s wildlife,” said Jonny Fugate, Yuma Valley Rod and Gun Club.

“Arizona will continue to grow, so the question is not if but how we grow. HabiMap Arizona is a tool that can help us have both a healthy economy and healthy wildlife populations,” said Rob Marshall, The Nature Conservancy Director, Center for Science & Public Policy. “We appreciate the department’s investment in developing tools with the capacity to expand and grow as our state changes.”

HabiMap Arizona is a component of the department’s State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), which provides a framework for helping to set the state’s wildlife conservation priorities. HabiMap Arizona provides a visual representation of the Species and Habitat Conservation Guide, which includes more than 300 layers of wildlife data and other information to identify the conservation potential at a statewide level.

Through aggressive protection, management and educational programs, the Arizona Game and Fish Department conserves, enhances, and restores Arizona’s diverse wildlife resources. The department also provides information and suggestions on how you can enjoy and appreciate Arizona’s wildlife. Learn more about the department at www.azgfd.gov. To learn more about HabiMap Arizona, please visit www.habimap.org.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Commission has a busy agenda including setting the 2012 hunts for elk and antelope and discussing wolf recovery efforts during its Dec. 2 and 3 meeting at the Game and Fish Department headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway in Phoenix (1.5 miles west of I-17).

The Friday, Dec. 2 portion of the meeting begins at 8 a.m.

Among the items on the Friday agenda are:

* The commission will be provided a briefing on the department’s involvement in Mexican wolf reintroduction in Arizona and New Mexico and related Mexican wolf recovery and conservation issues. The commission may vote to reaffirm existing policy guidance and/or to provide new or additional policy guidance to the department on any or all aspects of Mexican wolf conservation, including reintroduction and range-wide recovery (time certain at 10:30 a.m.)

* The department will request commission approval of the notice of exempt rulemaking to amend R12-4-304 (addressing lawful methods of take) to implement House Bill 2396.

• * The department will provide the commission with a proposed objective for the Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center Project and a briefing on the project timeline and approach.
• * The department will request commission approval to enter into five conservation easement agreements with private landowners along the Upper San Pedro River and to approve the accompanying memorandum of understanding with The Nature Conservancy for monitoring each conservation easement.
• * The department will request commission approval of a cooperative agreement for livestock operations at Horseshoe Ranch, which will facilitate the required federal base property lease for livestock operations based out of the commission-owned Horseshoe Ranch.
• * The department will request commission approval of the draft notice of exempt rulemaking to amend Article 8 (addressing wildlife areas and department property).
• * The department will request commission approval of a notice of docket opening, notice of proposed rulemaking, and economic impact statement amending rules within Article 1 addressing management unit boundaries and Article 3 addressing taking and handling of wildlife to implement HB 2543 and SB 1334.
• * The department will request commission approval of a notice of final rulemaking and economic impact statement amending R12-4-422 to ensure compliance with amendments made to federal sport falconry regulations.
• * The department will request commission approval of a revised department mission statement.
• * The commission will conduct hearings on license revocations for violations of Game and Fish codes and civil assessments for the illegal taking and/or possession of wildlife (time certain at 2 p.m.).
• * The department will provide the commission updates on federal and state legislation; information/education and wildlife recreation activities; recreational access issues; lands and habitat program activities; Sonoran pronghorn recovery activities; and law enforcement program activities.
• * The commission will consider approval of several consent agenda items.
• The Saturday, Dec. 3 portion of the meeting begins at 8 a.m. Among the items on Saturday’s agenda are:
• * The commission will consider proposed commission orders 3 (pronghorn antelope), 4 (elk), and 26 (population management) establishing seasons and season dates, bag and possession limits, permit numbers or authorized limits, and open areas for the respective 2012 fall hunting season.
• * The commission will be presented with the proposed hunt permit-tag application schedule for the elk/antelope 2012 hunts.
• * The commission will consider proposed amendments to the hunt guidelines process schedule and the 2012-13 and 2013-14 hunt guidelines governing hunting seasons to accommodate Hopi Trust Lands located in Units 4A, 5A, and 5B and allocation of permits to Hopi tribal members.
• * The commission will consider amendments to commission orders 10 (mountain lion), 11 (tree squirrel), 12 (cottontail), 13 (predatory and furbearing mammals), 14 (other birds and mammals), 16 (quail), 19 (dove), and 21 (waterfowl) for 2011-12 hunting seasons to incorporate changes to open areas as authorized by SB 1334 and changes to method of take as authorized in R12-4-304.
• * The department will request commission approval of acquisition of a federal patent from the BLM Kingman office for the development of the Tri-State Shooting Range.
• * The department will request commission approval of the transfer of the Adair Shooting Park in Yuma County from the Bureau of Reclamation to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

The public can view the meeting any of three ways: (1) attending the meeting in person in Phoenix; (2) viewing it via video stream at any of six Game and Fish regional offices; or, (3) viewing it over the Web at www.azgfd.gov/commissioncam.

Those wishing to submit “blue slips” to present oral comment during the meeting must do so either at the Phoenix meeting or at any of the regional Game and Fish offices (Pinetop, Flagstaff, Kingman, Yuma, Tucson and Mesa). For office addresses and contact information, visit www.azgfd.gov/offices.

For a complete meeting agenda or to learn more about the Game and Fish Commission, visit www.azgfd.gov/commission.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The public can now view the proposed hunt recommendations for Arizona’s 2012 elk, pronghorn antelope, and population management seasons by visiting www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines.

The annual hunt recommendations establish season dates, open areas, permit levels, and legal method of take to meet management objectives based on the hunt guidelines

The Arizona Game and Fish Department will host six open houses at regional offices statewide where the public will also have the opportunity to preview the recommendations. Although no formal presentation will be made at the open houses, a knowledgeable staff person will be available to discuss regional hunt recommendations.

Open house dates, times and locations are:

• Tuesday, Nov. 22, 3-5 p.m. – Pinetop regional office, 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd.
• Monday, Nov. 28, 3-5 p.m., Tucson regional office, 555 N. Greasewood Road
• Tuesday, Nov. 29, 3-5 p.m., Kingman regional office, 5325 N. Stockton Hill Road
• Tuesday, Nov. 29, 3-5 p.m. – Yuma regional office, 9140 E. 28th St.
• Tuesday, Nov. 29, 3-5 p.m. – Mesa regional office, 7200 E. University Drive
• Thursday, Dec. 1, 3-5 p.m. – Flagstaff regional office, 3500 S. Lake Mary Road.

The proposed hunt recommendations will be presented to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission for consideration during the Saturday, Dec. 3 portion of the commission’s regular meeting in Phoenix at the Game and Fish headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix. The meeting agenda is posted at www.azgfd.gov/inside_azgfd/meeting_agenda.shtml.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The proposed hunt recommendations for Arizona’s 2012 elk, pronghorn antelope, and population management seasons are anticipated to be available for public review beginning Nov. 19 at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website at www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines, followed by six open houses at regional offices statewide.

The annual hunt recommendations establish season dates, open areas, permit levels, and legal method of take to meet management objectives based on the hunt guidelines.

Although no formal presentation will be made at the open houses, a knowledgeable staff person will be available to discuss regional hunt recommendations.

Open house dates, times and locations are:

• Tuesday, Nov. 22, 3-5 p.m. – Pinetop regional office, 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd.
• Monday, Nov. 28, 3-5 p.m., Tucson regional office, 555 N. Greasewood Road.
• Tuesday, Nov. 29, 3-5 p.m., Kingman regional office, 5325 N. Stockton Hill Road.
• Tuesday, Nov. 29, 3-5 p.m. – Yuma regional office, 9140 E. 28th St.
• Tuesday, Nov. 29, 3-5 p.m. – Mesa regional office, 7200 E. University Drive.
• Thursday, Dec. 1, 3-5 p.m. – Flagstaff regional office, 3500 S. Lake Mary Road.

The proposed hunt recommendations will be presented to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission for consideration during the Saturday, Dec. 3 portion of the commission’s regular meeting in Phoenix at the Game and Fish headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix.

The public has three options for viewing the meeting:

• Attend the meeting in person in Phoenix;
• View it via video stream at one of six Game and Fish regional offices (Pinetop, Flagstaff, Kingman, Yuma, Tucson and Mesa; addresses are available at www.azgfd.gov/offices);
• View it over the Web at www.azgfd.gov/commissioncam.

Those wishing to submit “blue slips” to present oral comment during the meeting must do so either in person at the Phoenix meeting or at one of the six Game and Fish regional offices showing the video stream.

Once the commission sets the hunt orders, the final regulations are typically available online by the third week of December, which triggers when hunters can begin submitting their applications for the drawing process.

The anticipated application deadline for elk and pronghorn, which is also set at the December Commission meeting, is the second Tuesday of February, pending commission approval. Printed copies of the regulations are typically available in mid to late January.

The big game draw is a lottery-style process for allocating the limited number of Arizona big game hunting permits to applicants. The department typically receives far more applications than the number of permits allocated for elk and pronghorn hunts.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Eddy Corona, one of Arizona’s leading hunter conservationists, is in the running for the “Mentor of the Year” award from the North American Hunting Club for his dedication to introducing youngsters to the great outdoors.

Eddy of Ahwatukee, is an Arizona native, longtime sportsman, and co-founder of Outdoor Experience 4 All (OE4A), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing an enjoyable outdoor adventure to children with life-threatening illnesses.

Corona and OE4A are key players in the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Hunting and Angling Heritage Workgroup (HAHWG), a consortium of sportsmen’s organizations, community leaders, and outdoor industry representatives that works to pass down the skills and traditions of hunting and fishing to the next generation.

Through the coordination of the HAHWG and the dedicated efforts of groups like OE4A, mentored hands-on outdoor skills events have grown from only a handful a year to more than 40 events for the 2011-12 season.

Arizona Hunter Eddy Corona

Events hosted by experienced mentors, like Corona and OE4A, introduce first-timers, youngsters and their families to an array of outdoor experiences, including firearm safety, hunting, fishing, cooking wild game, wildlife conservation, wildlife biology/ecology, and camping skills. Not only does OE4A conduct its own events for kids, Eddy and his crew participate in other organizations’ events by providing equipment, camp help and mentors to give the participants that one-on-one support that is so important at mentored events.

Surveys have shown that mentoring is critical for continuing the hunting and angling heritage to those that may not have a family member or connection to these American pastimes.

“The efforts of the Hunting and Angling Heritage Workgroup are carried out in partnership with dozens of dedicated individuals and organizations, and we are certainly proud of the men and women of these outdoor organizations who work to pass on the outdoor heritage. The HAHWG is proud to see Eddy representing Arizona at the national level for recognition of the hard work every mentor does for the next generation,” said Chief of Wildlife Recreation, Craig McMullen.

The North American Hunting Club Mentor of the Year will be determined by online voting. Voting is open to the public at www.nahcmentor.com from Oct. 24 – Nov. 27. Other nominations from across the U.S. for the annual mentoring award are Phil McAmis, Mark Charbonneau, John E. Clites and Harry Fox, Sr.

To learn more about the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Hunting and Angling Heritage Workgroup mentoring program and upcoming events, visit www.azgfd.gov/outdoorskills.

Note: The recruitment and retention of hunters, anglers, trappers, and shooters is important to continue the successful management of Arizona’s wildlife. Funding for the management and conservation of game animals is funded by dollars generated by the sale of licenses, hunt tags, and matching funds from federal excise taxes hunters pay on guns, ammunition, and related equipment – not through the state’s general fund. However, driving on a country road and enjoying roaming elk herds, antelope on the range or ducks in flight are enjoyed by all citizens of Arizona and beyond.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Bruce Taubert of Glendale, Ariz., took the top honor with his unforgettable image of a Townsend’s big-eared bat.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- A bat swoops low over a pond, tongue extended for a drink, its reflection perfectly mirrored in the dark, still water.

This stunning image and 12 more are among the winners of this year’s wildlife photo contest, sponsored by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

The grand prize winner, Bruce Taubert of Glendale, Ariz., took the top honor with his unforgettable image of a Townsend’s big-eared bat. Another Taubert photo, showing a coyote in a snowstorm, won one of 12 first-place prizes.

“To have the Arizona Game and Fish Department select my photos is not just a pat on the back for me, but an opportunity to share my passion for wildlife photography with other people,” Taubert says.

“I don’t need a contest as an incentive to go out and shoot, but it’s exciting to know people will see my work.”

The other winning photographers are:

• Lou Romain of Scottsdale, American avocet
• Debbie Goldenstein of Flagstaff, porcupine
• Ann Beisser of Scottsdale, Harris’s hawk
• Gordon Karre of Mesa, verdin
• Corey Anderson of Tucson, madrean alligator lizard
• Stephanie Rainey of Lakeside, spotted owl
• Ed Bonkowski of Mesa, immature bald eagle
• Rhonda Spencer of Tucson, Couch’s spadefoot
• Roger Marble of Gilbert, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
• Jeremy Houston of Kanab, Utah, mule deer
• Tom Whetten of Tucson, scaled quail

The 13 winning works of art celebrating the diversity of Arizona’s wildlife are featured in a full-size 2012 calendar, published in the November–December 2011 issue of Arizona Wildlife Views magazine. In addition to prize-winning wildlife photography, the special issue includes an interview with staff photographer George Andrejko, who has been a professional wildlife photographer for the past 22 years. Andrejko shares his tips for becoming a better wildlife photographer.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department welcomes new subscribers to Arizona’s award-winning magazine about wildlife and outdoor recreation. It usually costs just $8.50 for six issues (one year), but right now subscriptions are on sale at seven issues for $7. Subscriptions are available at www.azgfd.gov/magazine or by calling (800) 777-0015. For those who simply want to purchase the calendar issue, it will be sold at all Game and Fish Department offices for $3 beginning in mid-November.

More than 250 entries were received for this year’s contest. To share the most outstanding entries and celebrate the talent of Arizona’s wildlife photographers, the department has selected honorable mention images as well. These are posted in an online slide show on the photo contest’s Web page, www.azgfd.gov/photocontest.

View a video with wildlife photography tips from contest winner Bruce Taubert below or visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5gKesbKuh8.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board on Nov. 3 selected seven finalists from a field of 46 applicants to be interviewed on Nov. 15 for the upcoming available seat on the civilian policy-setting board that oversees the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Those selected for interview for the 2012 vacancy on the Arizona Game and Fish Commission are:

• James R. Ammons, Yuma (Yuma County), Republican;
• Kurt R. Davis, Phoenix (Maricopa County), Republican;
• Wayne W. Lackner, Klondyke (Graham County), Republican;
• Keith D. Manning, Mesa (Maricopa County), Republican;
• Brian D. Pinney, Chandler (Maricopa County), Independent;
• George Z. Taylor, Rio Rico (Santa Cruz County), Republican;
• Bob W. Thomas, Phoenix (Maricopa County), Republican.

The Commission Appointment Recommendation Board will interview the finalists on Tuesday, Nov. 15, and select the candidates to be forwarded for the Governor’s consideration. The meeting will be held at the Arizona Game and Fish Department headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway in Phoenix and is open to the public.

The finalist list and the Nov. 15 meeting agenda are posted at www.azgfd.gov/board.

Per Arizona State Statute 17-202 (which became effective in July 2010), the Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board shall assist the governor by interviewing, evaluating and recommending candidates for appointment to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

As per the statute, the Commission Appointment Recommendation Board shall recommend at least two, but no more than five candidates to the governor. The governor must select and appoint a commissioner from the list submitted by the board.

Members of the Recommendation Board are Phillip D. Townsend (chair), Susan E. Chilton, W. Hays Gilstrap, Donald R. Johnson, and Leonard G. Stinson.

For additional information about the Commission Appointment Recommendation Board, contact the Governor’s Office of Boards and Commissions at (602) 542-2449 or toll free at 1-800-253-0883 or on the web at www.azgovernor.gov.

For more information on the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, visit www.azgfd.gov/commission.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department proposes to amend R12-4-304 to implement recently passed legislation and increase hunter opportunity by expanding allowable methods for the take of wild mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Amendments are also proposed to make the rule less restrictive, increase clarity, and improve consistency with other subsections of the rule. Amendments include:

Clarifying the use of crossbows; this is proposed to improve consistency and reduce confusion among hunters regarding the use of crossbows.

Allowing crossbows and bows that are drawn and held with an assisting device for the take of specific wildlife; this is proposed to make the rule less restrictive, increase clarity, and improve consistency with other subsections of the rule.

Reducing the minimum standard pull weight for bows; this is proposed to reflect current technological advances.

Allowing the take of mountain lion with shotgun shooting shot. This amendment was requested by members of the public during previous hunt guideline discussions. The Department believes this is an effective and ethical method of take and anticipates that the additional number of mountain lions taken using this method will be minimal.

Allowing the take of javelina and turkey with rimfire handguns. This amendment was requested by members of the public during previous hunt guideline discussions. The Department believes this is an effective and ethical method of take.

Allowing the take of upland game birds and Eurasian collared doves with a pneumatic weapon. This amendment was requested at a public Commission Meeting. The Department believes this is an effective and ethical method of take and does not in conflict with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Allowing the take of cottontail rabbits, tree squirrels, upland game birds, and Eurasian collared doves with pneumatic weapons and hand-held projectiles. This amendment was requested by members of the public during previous hunt guideline discussions. The Department believes this is an effective and ethical method of take.

Allowing the take of coyotes and mountain lions with artificial light. This is proposed to give the commission the authority to open a season allowing the take of coyotes or mountain lions from dusk to dawn in game management units where coyote or mountain lion depredation on antelope, mule deer, and bighorn sheep are considered to be a significant factor in recruitment.

Clarifying that pursuit with dogs for cottontail rabbits, tree squirrels, upland game birds, and birds is a lawful activity. This amendment was requested at a public commission meeting. While this activity is currently allowed, it is not addressed in rule.

Allowing an individual to use dogs as a lawful method to take predatory and furbearing animals, small game, and nongame mammals. This amendment was requested at a public commission meeting. The sport of using dogs to pursue and take wildlife has existed in North America since colonial days. This rule amendment clarifies that the take of predatory and furbearing animals, small game, and nongame mammals with dogs is a lawful activity.

Referring to the Raymond Wildlife Area by providing the Game Management Units (GMU) instead of the Wildlife Area. This is proposed to reduce confusion regarding GMU boundaries.

The commission approved the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking at the Oct. 14, 2011 commission meeting and will review the final rulemaking at the Dec. 2, 2011 commission meeting. To view the Notice of Exempt Rulemaking, visit http://www.azgfd.gov/inside_azgfd/rules/rulemaking_updates.shtml.

The Department will accept comments through Nov. 16; to submit comments, call (480) 528-7986 or e-mail DMcGehee@azgfd.gov or rulemaking@azgfd.gov.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Mexican authorities released five Mexican wolves in the San Luis Mountains in Sonora, Mexico, on Oct. 12, 2011, approximately 80 miles south of Douglas, Ariz.

Mexico’s desire to release wolves in Sonora as part of its recovery effort has been known for the past two years, although the exact timetable for release was unknown.

“Mexico is a sovereign nation with its own wildlife conservation and recovery goals. The vast majority of historic habitat for the Mexican wolf is actually in Mexico, and long-term full recovery of the sub-species is incumbent on successful recovery there, as well as our recovery efforts in the U.S.,” said Larry Voyles, director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Game and Fish will continue to work with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine how the wolves will be monitored and managed if animals cross the international border.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has been actively involved in the multi-agency effort to reintroduce Mexican wolves to portions of their historic range in the east-central portion of Arizona (and adjacent New Mexico) for many years. In 1998, 11 captive-reared Mexican wolves were released into the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area (BRWRA) in eastern Arizona.

The current population in Arizona-New Mexico was assessed to be approximately 50 animals during 2011 monitoring. The Mexican wolf is considered endangered in the United States and Mexico.

Game and Fish continues to express concern over the lack of progress in aspects of wolf conservation.

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service initiated efforts earlier this year to update the 1982 recovery plan for the Mexican wolf throughout its historic range in the American Southwest and Mexico,” said Voyles. “The Service also recently released a draft management plan for wolves that might travel to Arizona or New Mexico as a result of the recent release in Sonora or future releases in Mexico. It will likely take years to finalize either plan because of federal environmental compliance processes that could easily be further drawn out by appeals and even litigation.”

Voyles added that wolf management is an emotional issue with potential effects on the human environment, as well as the natural environment. Everyone engaged in wolf management has a responsibility towards open and transparent coordination and information sharing with Arizona stakeholders, as mandated under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Voyles said Game and Fish will make every effort to work with the Fish and Wildlife Service, neighboring states, counties, and Mexico, to the extent that transparency allows, to manage and conserve wolves in Arizona.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

'Shoot For A Cure' Sporting Clays Event Is This Saturday

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Ben Avery Clay Busters, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, is holding a “Shoot for a Cure” event to help in the fight against cancer.

The event will be held at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Ben Avery Clay Target Center this Saturday, Oct. 8.

A 25-target sporting clays “fun shoot” will be held starting at 10 a.m. It is open to shooters of all abilities. No experience is necessary – experienced shooters will coach you. Cost is $25 and includes shotgun rental and shells.

The fun shoot will be followed by a 100-target NSCA registered tournament, with registration starting at 11 a.m. Cost is $100 and includes NSCA/ASCA fees for registered shooters.

Registration fees will be payable by cash or check only. Net proceeds from participant registrations will go to the Phoenix affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

The Ben Avery Clay Target Center is located at 5060 W. Skeet St. in Phoenix. Take I-17 to the Carefree Highway exit and go west 1.5 miles on Carefree Highway. Turn right at the stoplight (Game and Fish headquarters is on the corner) and follow the signs to the Clay Target Center.

For more information, including an event flyer and a registration form for the registered shoot, visit www.azgfd.gov/ctc and click on “upcoming events.” Or, contact (602) 571-4055 or baclaybusters@gmail.com.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

LINCOLN, Neb. –-(Ammoland.com)- Early big game hunting is off to a good start across the state, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The following is a look at harvest as of Sept. 29:

Pronghorn antelope – Hunters have taken 274 animals, according to check station reports: 175 by archery, nine by crossbow and 90 by muzzleloader. Muzzleloader seasons ends Oct. 2 and archery season runs through Dec. 31.

The pronghorn antelope firearm season is Oct. 8-23. Those hunters must check their antelope at check stations.

“Pronghorn populations are at a 25-year high and a record harvest is expected,” said Kit Hams, Game and Parks’ big game program manager.

Elk – Hunters have harvested 44 bulls and at least four cows since the seasons opened Sept. 24. Among those bulls were 16 checked at Crawford, 13 at Chadron and 10 at Bridgeport. Three cows were checked at Crawford and one at Bridgeport. The bull and cow seasons close Oct. 23. The cow season reopens Dec. 1-21.

“Record harvests of trophy bulls are expected as elk populations and hunting opportunities continue to increase,” Hams said. “Game and Parks is aging all bulls harvested this year to determine age structure. Hunters should mail incisors to Game and Parks for this project.”

Deer – Archery deer hunters have harvested 898 whitetails and 56 mule deer since Sept 15. Forty whitetails and two mule deer were taken by crossbow hunters.

The October antlerless season opens Oct. 1 in much of the state. Harvest is expected to exceed 3,000 over the 10-day hunt as the $11 October antlerless permit allows the take of two antlerless whitetails.

“Game and Parks has expanded antlerless deer hunting opportunities across the state and hunters are expected to harvest more than 40,000 antlerless whitetails this season,” Hams said.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Sept. 24 was National Hunting and Fishing Day.

The resolution authorizing the proclamation of the fourth Saturday of every September as National Hunting and Fishing Day was passed by Congress and signed by President Richard Nixon in 1972, to recognize the contributions that hunters and anglers have played in the conservation of wildlife and management of natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

A new study commissioned by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) shows that a strong majority of Americans continue to support hunting.

According to a news release from NSSF, the scientific telephone survey of American adults 18 and older was conducted in early September, and nearly three-fourths of respondents (74 percent) said they approved of hunting, a level of support that has not varied by more than a few percentage points since 1995.

“The numbers have been consistent over the past two decades,” said Mark Damian Duda, executive director of Responsive Management, the research firm that conducted the study. “Support for hunting is solid.”

According to the news release, the new study went a step further than previous research, revealing strong support for the “right to hunt.” The release stated that no matter what their opinion about hunting, Americans stand firmly behind a person’s right to hunt, with 94 percent agreeing it is “OK for other people to hunt if they do so legally and in accordance with hunting laws and regulations.” Only four percent of respondents wanted to strip citizens of the right to hunt.

“It’s gratifying to see that strong public support for our great tradition of hunting is unwavering,” said NSSF president and CEO Steve Sanetti in the release. “For many of us, it is extremely fulfilling to provide food for ourselves and our families through hunting, even if only on a few days a year. That’s one of many reasons why NSSF and others work so diligently to protect hunting.”

According to the news release, the survey also revealed that Americans have a taste for eating what sportsmen harvest. Sixty-seven percent of respondents indicated they have eaten some type of wild (non-farm) game meat or fish within the last 12 months. This finding corresponds to people’s growing interest about their food sources. Hunters and their families have always known the benefits of eating healthful game meat, and now more people are enjoying cooking and eating game, with some even taking up hunting because it connects them directly with locally acquired, sustainable foods.

The survey also revealed the public was equally supportive of target shooting, with 93 percent agreeing that target shooting is acceptable.

According to the news release, survey respondents closely matched the age, gender, race and region of the American population 18 and older. Of the hunters in the survey–about 10 percent–the average age was 41.

“It remains a goal of the National Shooting Sports Foundation and the many programs it funds to increase hunting participation among all ages, especially by attracting younger participants and former hunters,” said Sanetti. “It is they who will carry on this great American tradition and continue to fund the protection of wildlife and habitat.”

The billions of dollars generated through hunting license sales and excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, as well as fishing tackle, provide the foundation for wildlife conservation efforts in America. Excise taxes on firearms and ammunition sales alone have resulted in more than $6.8 billion benefiting conservation through the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, also known as the Pittman-Robertson Act. The excise taxes on firearms and ammunition sales also benefit shooting sports opportunities.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department offers a number of events where beginners and others can learn about hunting, fishing and shooting sports. For a listing of hunting camps/workshops, visit www.azgfd.gov/outdoorskills; for general information on hunting, visit www.azgfd.gov/h_f/hunting.shtml. For information on fishing clinics, visit www.azgfd.gov/i_e/edits/aquatic_education.shtml; for general information on fishing, visit www.azgfd.gov/h_f/fishing.shtml. For information on shooting sports opportunities, visit http://www.azgfd.gov/outdoor_recreation/shooting_sports.shtml.

For information about participation and economic benefits of outdoor recreation, visit www.azgfd.gov/w_c/survey_results.shtml.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department is requesting deer and elk hunters’ continued vigilance in monitoring for chronic wasting disease (CWD) by allowing biological samples of the animals’ lymph nodes to be collected for testing.

CWD has not yet been found in Arizona through regular annual testing since 1998. However, it is present in the neighboring states of Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. CWD is fatal to deer and elk; however, there is no evidence that it poses a risk to humans.

“As in past years, the participation of hunters, meat processors, and taxidermists is essential for the department’s CWD surveillance program,” said Clint Luedtke, wildlife disease biologist. “Collection of samples from elk and deer hunters in Game Management Unit 12B (which borders Utah), as well as Units 1 and 27 (which border New Mexico), is crucial in assuring CWD is not in these potential corridors near neighboring states that have detected the disease.”

For Kaibab and Arizona Strip hunters, the Jacob Lake check station will be open for collecting samples on Oct. 6-11 during the juniors-only deer hunt; on Oct. 20-31 for the general deer hunt; and on Nov. 17-28 for the late season hunt. The check station will be operational from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the following exception that the station will close early at noon on Oct. 11, 31 and Nov. 28.

Department biologists will also be collecting samples during the juniors-only elk hunt in Units 1 and 2C from Oct. 7-13. In addition, biologists will be working in the field from Oct. 27-31 in Unit 28, seeking successful hunters to provide samples for the CWD monitoring effort in this area.

Arizona hunters hunting out-of-state
To help prevent CWD from entering the state, Game and Fish asks that all deer and elk hunters hunting outside of Arizona take the necessary precautions before bringing any harvested animals back into the state. Furthermore, hunters should contact the wildlife agency in the state they are hunting, as several states have restrictions on carcass transportation.

Here are some important things out-of-state deer and elk hunters need to know before coming back to Arizona with their deer or elk harvest:

• Do not cut into the spinal cord or remove the head.
• Do not quarter (or other method) the carcass with any of the spinal column or head attached.
• Do not bring the brain, intact skull, or spinal cord back into Arizona.

Successful out-of-state deer and elk hunters need to bone out the meat and package it (either commercially or privately). It is okay to bring back animal hides, as well as skull plates that have been cleaned of all tissue and washed in bleach. Heads from a taxidermist, sawed-off antlers, and ivory teeth are also OK to bring into Arizona.

Other ways to participate
All hunters are encouraged to assist the monitoring effort by bringing in the head of their recently harvested deer or elk to any Game and Fish Department office between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Place the head in a heavy plastic garbage bag for delivery, and keep it cool and out of the sun. If the weather is warm, it is best to either bring in the head within a day of harvest or keep it on ice in a cooler before delivery.

When submitting heads for sampling, please provide accurate, up-to-date hunter information (name, street address, city, state, zip code and phone number) as well as hunt information (hunt number, permit number, game management unit harvested in, county, state, and hunting license), as this information is crucial should a positive CWD sample occur. If this information is not provided, the department will be unable to test the sample.

Test results are now available online at www.azgfd.gov/cwd, by clicking the “Chronic Wasting Disease Test Results” link on the right side of the page.

CWD basics

Here are some guidelines for hunters when out in the field:

• Don’t harvest any animal that appears to be sick or behaves oddly. Call the Arizona Game and Fish Department at 1-800-352-0700 if you see an animal that is very thin, has a rough coat, drooping ears and is unafraid of humans.
• When field-dressing game, wear rubber gloves and minimize the use of a bone saw to cut through the brain or spinal cord (backbone). Bone out the meat. Minimize contact with and do not consume brain or spinal cord tissues, eyes, spleen, or lymph nodes.
• Always wash hands thoroughly after dressing and processing game meat.

The non-hunting public can also help prevent the potential spread of CWD. If you come across any deer fawn or elk calf in the wild, it should be left alone. Don’t assume it has been abandoned by the parent; in all likelihood, it hasn’t. Being a “good Samaritan” and bringing these wild animals into captivity poses a risk to the state’s wildlife resources.

CWD is a neurodegenerative wildlife disease that is fatal to cervids, which include deer, elk and moose. Clinical symptoms include loss of body weight or emaciation, excessive salivation, increased drinking and urination, stumbling, trembling, and behavioral changes such as listlessness, lowering of the head, and repetitive walking in set patterns.

No evidence has been found to indicate that CWD affects humans, according to both the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.

The department also has had rules in place since 2002 restricting the movement of captive deer and elk into or within the state, and subjecting those animals to marking and reporting requirements.

For more information about chronic wasting disease, visit www.azgfd.gov/cwd or www.cwd-info.org.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Hunters rejoice, you now have access to approximately 1 million acres of public and state trust lands within municipal boundaries this hunting season, but there are regulation changes that relate to these new opportunities and public safety that hunters need to know.

These opportunities required amending the 2011-12 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations, as well as the 2011 Pronghorn Antelope and Elk Hunt Regulations because the changes to state law became effective after these publications were distributed.

In an interest of time and as a cost savings measure, Game and Fish will NOT be reprinting the 2011-12 Arizona Hunting and Trapping regulations, or the 2011 Pronghorn Antelope and elk Hunt Draw Information Booklet.

“Basically, because of these law changes, Arizona hunters now have access to the undeveloped lands on the fringes of municipal boundaries that were once off limits, much of it is perfect for safe recreational small game hunting using shotguns, which have a short effective range,” said Chief of Wildlife Recreation, Craig McMullen.

McMullen also expressed, citizens can feel safe because the Game and Fish Commission, a public body, has prohibited the use of long-range firearms like rifles, muzzleloaders, or pistols on private property in city limits and in metropolitan hunt units. In addition, a core area in metro Phoenix was closed to hunting. These restrictions were implemented to minimize conflicts in urban areas and to assure public safety.

Because of these law changes, hunters will need to download and print the amended regulations (changes are indicated in red font), to get the latest legal hunting requirements. Most of the changes are identified in the notes section for each species in the regulations.

Hunters should carefully read these notes to learn about any restrictions to methods of take, and modifications to open areas for most species including, but not limited to elk, antelope, deer, quail, rabbits, predators, and fur-bearing mammals. The latest regulations are available at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website at www.azgfd.gov/rules.

What changed?
The regulations were amended because of recent law changes to ARS §13-3107 and §13-3108 that transferred the authority to regulate the use of firearms for the take wildlife within municipal boundaries to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. The commission amended the appropriate hunting seasons and regulations at its Aug. 6 public meeting to comply with the new legislation.

While there are many changes to the regulations due to the change of authority, much of these changes are to mimic sensible restrictions that were already in place through other regulations such as overarching state laws, intergovernmental agreements, or other means.

“The good news is, hunters that haven’t heard about these recent law changes and are following the original regulations will not be hunting in city limits, because those originally issued publications do not make specific allowances for hunting within municipal boundaries,” said McMullen.

Before the law change, it was against the law to shoot a firearm, even while taking wildlife, within city limits. Under the new authority of the commission, the hunting regulations have been amended to assure public safety, while also providing as much hunting opportunity as possible.

This is done by implementing seasons that do not permit high-power rifles in certain areas, closing populated urban centers, or through continued communication of the state law that prohibits hunting with a firearm within a quarter mile of an occupied building.

Some of the key changes to the regulations that hunters and the public need to know about, include, but are not limited to:

• Closed to hunting – A large portion of the Phoenix metropolitan area is closed to hunting. For boundary description and area map, visit www.azgfd.gov/rules.
• Closed to hunting – Golf courses, airports, and posted water treatment facilities are closed to hunting.
• Closed to hunting with firearms: Private lands in both the Tucson and Flagstaff metro hunt units (11M and 38M respectively) are closed to all hunting during firearms seasons, including those for shotgun shooting shot. Hunting with a firearm inside city limits in these populated metro units is only permitted on public and state trust lands.
• Closed to hunting during “General Firearm Rifle Seasons” – Private property within city limits is closed to all hunting during “general firearm rifle seasons” using any weapon type including a rifle, pistol, muzzleloader as well as bow and arrows. There are some limited exclusions for wildlife management needs.
• Open to hunting with restrictions – Generally, county and city parks and preserves are closed to hunting. The Commission opened some county parks in Pima and Maricopa County for hunting. For the Pima and Maricopa County parks and/or preserves that are open to hunting by commission order, further restrictions make it unlawful to take wildlife within a quarter mile of a developed campground, picnic area, occupied building, boat ramp, shooting range, or golf course.
• Open to hunting with restrictions – Private property inside city limits not already excluded (i.e. 11M, 38M and Phoenix metro area) are only open to hunting during “limited weapon, shotgun shooting shot seasons.”
• Reptile hunting and collection restrictions – Hunting reptiles with a firearm is closed statewide on private property inside city limits, city and county parks and preserves, golf courses, airports and posted water treatment facilities. A limited weapon season, which does not include the use of firearms, was created for taking/collecting reptiles in these areas closed to firearms.

To learn more about these recent law changes, and how Game and Fish has implemented these changes to assure the public’s safety, while still providing hunting opportunity in these undeveloped, uninhabited public lands in municipalities, visit www.azgfd.gov/rules.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

All Was Quiet On The Arizona Dove Hunting Front Opening Weekend

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- “All was quiet on the dove-hunting front” was the word from wildlife law enforcement professionals following the opening weekend of dove season in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area despite some predictions otherwise.

This is the first year hunters have been able to hunt much of the open, undeveloped public lands within municipal boundaries.

“All in all, it was a quiet dove opening weekend across the state, with about the normal amount of calls into the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s radio room, or maybe even a little less than normal,” said Assistant Director Leonard Ordway.

Ordway added that just as agency experts had predicted, opening around a million acres to small game hunting actually spread out hunters, reduced possible hunter congestion, and overall reduced potential conflicts.

Prior to the opening of dove season on Sept. 1, Game and Fish officials designed and implemented hunt strategies within municipalities that emphasized reducing potential conflicts.

“We certainly did our best to go the extra mile and work closely with municipal law enforcement agencies. As we hoped, because hunters were better able to determine where to hunt legally on open lands, conflicts and potential violations truly diminished,” Ordway said.

On the plus side, Ordway said, lots of hunters have been thanking the department for opening such vast tracts of open desert lands to small game hunting thanks to Senate Bill 1334, which granted authority to regulate hunting within municipal areas to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

“To be honest, we hoped for the best, expected the best, but were still holding our breaths a little. We are grateful that this opening weekend of dove hunting far surpassed our expectations. Which is a good thing, because these new municipal hunting lands allow whole families the opportunity to re-connect with nature close to home,” Ordway said.

The dove season runs from Sept. 1 through Sept. 15. Even though a lot of white-winged doves have migrated south since the Sept. 1 opening of the season, the milder daytime temperatures during the second half of the season should make it more enjoyable for hunters.

“Now it doesn’t take a half-tank of gas for most people to find decent dove hunting,” Ordway said, “It’s great to be able to hunt dove before or after work or school and experience routine contact with nature in our daily lives.”

Ordway added that there is a lot of talk about the growing “nature deficit” among our youth, but wildlife professionals and those who study the social dynamics of the outdoors know the positive spin-offs for youth from such activities – they have been well studied and documented over the years.

“Youth who hunt and fish or routinely participate in other outdoor activities typically do better in school, have better self esteem, have enhanced problem-solving abilities, and demonstrate increased abilities to overcome challenges,” Ordway pointed out.

Studies have also shown other increased attributes to participating in healthy outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and wildlife watching.

Those include:

• Increased self-concept and self-concept domains such as independence, confidences, self-efficacy, and self understanding.
• Enhanced psychological well-being.
• Increased leadership competencies.
• Enhanced academic achievement and academic self-concept.
• Increased personality dimension such as assertiveness, emotional stability, achievement motivation, internal locus of control, and maturity.
• Improved mental strength and interpersonal dimensions, such as social competence, cooperation and interpersonal communication skills.

“It may surprise some, but despite Arizona’s vast tracts of open public land, this is one of the most urbanized states in the union. Most Arizonans live in highly urbanized areas, not rural areas. Yet it may also seem strange that we are truly blessed with so many outstanding outdoor opportunities close to home,” Ordway said.

What’s next on the hunting hit parade close to home? Quail season opens Sept. 30. Rabbit season is open year-round. So is predator season.

“Many of us were lucky growing up because we could simply walk out in the desert and go rabbit hunting. Guess what, it’s almost that easy again, but there are restrictions or rules everyone has to follow,” Ordway said.

Be sure to visit the Game and Fish website for all the particulars.

“These new opportunities definitely come with the necessity for hunters to be familiar with the regulations and act responsibly so that future generations can also be blessed with these character-building opportunities close to home,” Ordway advised.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Here is some updated information for hunters and other outdoor recreationists regarding public access to areas within the Wallow Fire burn perimeter, including a Frequently Asked Questions section (below) and a link to an updated map.

Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department) personnel in Region I have been coordinating with Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (Forest) staff to finalize the Forest’s decisions related to public access to those areas within the Wallow Fire burn perimeter.

With fall hunting seasons rapidly approaching, this is a process of significant priority for the Department.

The following information encompasses the key elements and framework the Forest has announced and will utilize in opening the area of the Forest (those portions of Game Management Units 1 and 27) impacted by the Wallow Fire. In reviewing this information, please be advised of the following key points:

• Many areas within the Wallow Fire perimeter continue to present significant public safety hazards, primarily associated with dead (falling) trees and flash flood impacts. The amount and level of public access provided is largely dictated by these public safety concerns and liabilities.
• A prerequisite to reopening the Forest within the Wallow Fire burn perimeter has been clearing and preparing designated, priority roadways for safe public travel. Roads are being evaluated in an ongoing process for consideration of opening, with open roads for motorized travel being designated with white arrows. Roads and trails not having white arrows are closed to all motorized travel. As a result, vehicular access will be limited to white-arrow roads for a certain time, but foot and nonmotorized access will be available to all areas that are not designated as closed by the Forest.
• Forest users are responsible for their own safety and are encouraged to use caution as they utilize their Forest, and to do so in a responsible manner to ensure the protection of life, property and natural resources. Be aware of your surroundings – “Look up, look down and look around.”

WALLOW FIRE BURN AREA ACCESS – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Developed Aug. 15, 2011

Where can I drive within the Wallow Fire perimeter?
Motorized use within the fire perimeter will only be allowed on roads designated as open, indicated on the ground with a white arrow. With certain exceptions for motorized big game retrieval and fuelwood collection, cross-country motorized use is not allowed.

When will you open more roads?
Forest managers are evaluating conditions on a weekly basis to determine if additional roads or areas are safe for reentry. Typically, we’ll know by Wednesdays if any changes will be made for the weekend. Alternately, all currently open areas are subject to be closed again if safety conditions change. Be sure to Know Before You Go – double check conditions with your local Apache-Sitgreaves office or the website before you venture out.

Why do portions of the Forest need to remain closed after the fire is out?
Our number one priority is human safety. We’re dedicated to avoiding accidents and injuries as much as possible. After the fire is out, many hazards still exist, including stump holes, falling dead trees, and the potential for flash flooding. We’ll continue to work hard mitigating some of these hazards so we can begin opening certain areas for public reentry.

How long until all the areas within the fire perimeter are open?
The length of closure is dependent upon many criteria, including public safety, protection of property, and protection of forest resources (i.e., soils, vegetation, water quality, wildlife, fisheries, recreation, heritage, etc.). We’re working diligently to remove hazards and restore the forest to safer conditions for public use. We’ll be able to open some areas over the next several weeks. Other areas with severe damage will have to remain closed for some time.

If I encounter a road that is not shown on the map, but is posted with a white arrow on the ground, can I use it?
Yes. Postings with a white arrow on the ground supersede the map; however crews are in the process of signing some roads that are not yet open. Gates, barricades, and other closure signs supersede white arrows.

What hazards should I be aware of in burned areas?
Stump holes, flooding potential, washed out roads, falling trees/branches. Any time you enter the forest, you should be aware of your environment and changing weather conditions. The environment you are entering is highly susceptible to rainstorms and wind events. As always, Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

Can I go hunting within the perimeter of the Wallow Fire?
Yes, with a valid hunting license, and as long as you’re driving only on roads designated as open with the posting of a white arrow, or entering via non-motorized means into off-road areas designated as open. Remember that hazards such as falling trees, stump holes, and potential flooding continue to exist in the area. You’re responsible for your own safety — Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

Can I retrieve my legally harvested big game animal with a motorized vehicle within the Fire perimeter?
Yes. You may retrieve legally harvested animals by motorized means, so long as you do not cause resource damage. You may not enter areas designated as closed for either motorized or non-motorized game retrieval without additional authorization by the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests or the Arizona Game and Fish Department. You may not drive off-road to scout for game.

Can I pursue an animal that I wounded during hunting season into a closed area?
In certain circumstances, Apache-Sitgreaves or Arizona Game and Fish officials may consider limited entry into a closed area in pursuit of mortally wounded or deceased game animals. If you experience this situation, you must contact either the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Operation Game Thief hotline (24-hour, 7-day/week) at-1-800-352-0700 or the local Forest Service office (Alpine Ranger District Office at (928) 339-5000, or the Springerville District office at (928) 333-6200) during normal business hours to make a request of this nature.

I am a CHAMP hunter, am I allowed motorized use off designated roads and trails, or in areas designated as closed?
No. With the exception of retrieving legally harvested big game animals by motorized means, you are not allowed to use motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails.

Can I go fishing within the Wallow Fire perimeter?
Yes, with a valid fishing license, and as long as you remain in areas and along routes designated as open with a white arrow. Remember that hazards such as falling trees, stump holes, and potential flooding continue to exist in the area. You’re responsible for your own safety — Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

Can I go camping in the campgrounds associated with the Wallow Fire?
Camping will continue within certain developed campgrounds deemed safe. Please keep in mind that certain campgrounds have been closed for an indeterminant length of time until hazards can be mitigated, and flooding potential subsides.

Can I camp in dispersed areas, outside of campgrounds, within the perimeter?
Yes. Dispersed camping is allowed within 30 feet of any motorized or non-motorized routes designated and posted on the ground with a white arrow. Please keep in mind that certain areas remain closed to dispersed camping in order to limit potential exposure to hazards by forest users, mitigate erosion potential, and minimize impacts to vegetation.

Can I camp further than 30 feet away from an open road if I walk in?
Yes. If you walk in, you may camp in any area designated as open. Vehicles must remain within 30 feet from an open road. Bear in mind that these areas have not been mitigated for hazards and pose a higher risk to your safety. Hazards such as falling trees, stump holes, and potential flooding continue to exist in the area. You’re responsible for your own safety — Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

When can I collect firewood within the fire perimeter?
Fuelwood permits are anticipated to be available beginning Tuesday, Aug. 23 from the Springerville and Alpine Ranger District offices. The cost will be $5 per cord with a minimum purchase of $20. The cost and regulations apply only to areas within the Wallow fire perimeter. All other areas are $10 per cord; regulations vary by district.

Where will I be able to collect firewood within the fire perimeter?
With a valid fuelwood permit, you may collect fuelwood within 150 feet from any Forest Service numbered road, except in closure areas and areas where fuelwood collection is normally restricted (campgrounds, wilderness, etc.). Remember that hazards such as falling trees, stump holes, and potential flooding continue to exist in the area. You’re responsible for your own safety — Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

Can I drive off road to collect firewood within the perimeter of the Wallow Fire?
With a valid permit, you may retrieve your fuelwood by motorized means as far as 150 feet off the road, so long as you do not cause resource damage. You may not enter areas designated as closed. Remember that hazards such as falling trees, stump holes, and potential flooding continue to exist in the area. You’re responsible for your own safety — Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

Why can fuelwood collectors drive on any numbered road and drive 150 feet off the road while hunters must remain within 30 feet of roads signed with a white arrow?
Fuelwood collection is a permitted activity administered by the Forest Service, not a licensed activity from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. By signing the permit, the collector agrees to the specific liability clauses within that permit, clauses that do not exist in hunting licenses.

In addition, collecting fuelwood from the burn area is helping to remove fuels that could lead to tree infestation and disease, as well as severe behavior of future fires. We want to encourage the public to help reduce that risk as much as possible while putting the wood to good use. Safety conditions still apply to all visitors within the fire perimeter: Hazards such as falling trees, stump holes, and potential flooding continue to exist in the area. Each individual is responsible for his or her own safety.

Can I use routes not designated with an arrow for non-motorized activities?
Yes, so long as the routes are not within a designated closure area, you may use routes for non-motorized activities. Please keep in mind that any area affected by the wildfire can be prone to hazards such as falling trees, flooding and burned out stump holes. Any time you enter the forest, you should be aware of your environment and changing weather conditions. The environment you are entering is highly susceptible to rainstorms and wind events. As always, Look Up, Look Down, and Look All Around.

Can I hike on trails within the fire perimeter?
While the trails within the open areas can be used, they have not been mitigated for hazards and pose a higher threat to your safety. We recommend that you try to find other locations across the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Remember that you’re responsible for your own safety. While you’re hiking, continue to Look Up, Look Down, Look All Around.

What is the penalty for going into areas or on routes that are designated as closed?
Any violation of closure order is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals, and $10,000 for organizations and/or imprisonment up to than six (6) months.

Does the white arrow program pre-empt the Travel Management Rule?
No. The White Arrow designation of motorized routes within the Wallow Fire perimeter is being used as an interim measure for the protection of public safety, property and forest resources. Further assessments will occur later in the year that will help Travel Management planners determine the next steps for moving forward in that process.

Where can I get a map of the routes designated as open to motorized use?
As motorized routes are assessed and opened for motorized entry, they will be depicted on a map, which is available to the public. This map will be updated on a periodic basis to accurately reflect conditions as they appear on the ground. The map is available from the link toward the bottom of this information, or can be obtained at any Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests’ office, or at www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf.

How often will the map be updated?
The map will be periodically updated to reflect changes. Be sure to either check this web page, or call one of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests’ offices, or check the Forests’ website prior to venturing into the forest to ensure you have the most recent information.

OTHER KEY INFORMATION

• You are responsible for your own safety!
• Check in with a friend or family member; tell them where you are going, when you’re leaving, and when you plan to return.
• Whenever possible, travel in pairs.
• When parking your vehicle, look up for overhead hazards within 1 ½ times the length of the tallest tree surrounding your vehicle.
• Don’t camp in areas that have dead trees within 1 ½ tree lengths.
• Carry a communication device and check-in at regular intervals.
• Don’t cross washes when water is present.
• Flash flooding almost always follows large, intense wildfires. Locations in, near, and downstream of recently burned areas are now much more susceptible to flash flooding and debris flows.
• Remember…it does not take a heavy downpour to result in flash flooding on a burn scar.
• Even a short period of moderate rainfall on a severely burned watershed can lead to flash floods or debris flows. After soils and vegetation have been charred, rainfall that would normally be absorbed will run off extremely quickly. Severely burned soils can be as water repellent as pavement.
• Rapidly moving flood waters can pick up large amounts of debris that can damage or destroy culverts, bridges, roadways, and buildings, potentially causing injury or death. Flash floods in and near burn scars can be life threatening.

MAP and LIST OF FOREST ROADS CURRENTLY OPEN

• Click here to view the latest burn area access map. (Note: This map was posted Aug. 15 and will be updated as changes occur.)
• Click here for a list of Forest Roads currently open within the Wallow Fire perimeter.

To view Wallow Fire burn area information on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests web site, click here or visit www.fs.usda.gov/asnf.

The above information is also posted on the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website at www.azgfd.gov/wildfires.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department has posted the 2011 Sandhill Crane Regulations, which includes the drawing information for limited hunts at www.azgfd.gov/rules.

Paper hunt-permit applications are now being accepted by mail only and must be received by Aug. 30, 2011.

Applications can be mailed to either P.O. Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052, or 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000.

Postmarks do not count, hand-delivered applications are not accepted, and there is no online application process available.

A 2011 hunting license is required to apply and can be purchased through the application process or in advance from any Game and Fish office, license dealer, or online at www.azgfd.gov.

Applicants are reminded to use the appropriate four-digit “hunt number” when filling out the application form and not the “open areas” game management unit number.

Arizona Sandhill Crane Regulations

Printed copies of the regulations are anticipated to be in license dealers and Game and Fish offices statewide by Aug. 10.

The electronic version of the regulations is easily printable on two pages of standard paper as is the hunt application form, both available at www.azgfd.gov/rules.

Did you know?
Much of the habitat sandhill cranes inhabit is wetland and shallow marsh. In Arizona, these uniquely prehistoric looking birds can be enjoyed at the Willcox Playa Wildlife Area, Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, and the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge. For those that wish to assure these habitats for cranes and other migratory birds for future generations, consider buying a state duck stamp and federal duck stamp.

These conservation stamps are not only works of art worth collecting; they are key funding sources for obtaining these critical habitats in Arizona and across North America.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

SPRINGERVILLE, Ariz. --(Ammoland.com)- Several agencies are working together to assess and open burned areas of the Apache portion of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (ASNF) to outdoor recreation, where safe and appropriate to do so.

“We fully recognize the public desire to continue recreation on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests is paramount. Getting the Apache side of the forest open for all users is a huge undertaking, because of the vast area impacted by the fire. It will be a gradual progression of identifying and removing safety hazards. Reopening the severely burned portions could take several years dependent on manpower and resources available,” according to Jim Zornes, ASNF deputy forest supervisor.

“These hazardous conditions, such as flash flooding and dead-standing trees, pose exceptional problems; however, ultimately, safety is the responsibility of recreationists, hunters, and forest users.”

Three key issues determine all decisions being made: public safety, protection of public property, and protection of natural resources.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, and Arizona Department of Transportation are in ongoing discussions to determine access protocol to portions of Game Management Units 1 and 27 that were impacted by the Wallow Fire. Discussions include access roads, dispersed camping, and motorized big game retrieval.

All fall hunts will occur and take place as scheduled. Protocols will be agreed upon and the public will be able to access this information at www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf and www.azgfd.gov. Ongoing map updates will be supplied through these websites and hard copies at the Pinetop Game and Fish office, the Apache-Sitgreaves Supervisor’s office, and local ranger district offices.

“Game and Fish fully understands the ASNFs’ very difficult situation with the enormity of the Wallow Fire and all its associated issues. We deeply appreciate the Forest working diligently with us in a close relationship to reopen many of the fire-impacted areas in such a short time-frame.

The Forest has been receptive to our suggestions and has gone out of their way to ensure hunts take place that have been scheduled this fall. We ask the hunting community and general public to understand the scale of this situation and to have tolerance and patience as we all work together to restore access back to the National Forest lands affected by fire,” said Jon Cooley, regional supervisor in the Pinetop Game and Fish office.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Time is running out for hunters to apply for Arizona’s fall hunts issued through the draw process. Applications must be received by Arizona Game and Fish by Tuesday, June 14 by 7 p.m. (MST) – postmarks do not count, and there is no online application process.

The fall drawing cycle allocates the limited hunt permit-tags for deer, fall turkey, fall javelina, bighorn sheep, fall buffalo and pheasant.

Due to the deadline quickly approaching, the recommended method to submit an application is by hand-delivery to one of the seven Game and Fish offices. Offices are located in Pinetop, Flagstaff, Kingman, Yuma, Tucson, Mesa and Phoenix.

Applications can be sent by U.S. mail, but those using this method are reminded that postmarks do not count and must be received by Game and Fish on or before 7 p.m. (MST) on Tuesday, June 14. Mailed applications should be sent to Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn. Drawing Section, PO Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052.

Hunters are advised that the wildfires burning in certain areas of the state are likely to impact traditional hunting in those areas; more information is below.

To assist last-minute applicants with survey, harvest and draw statistics, Hunt Arizona 2011 is now available. This free PDF file is an invaluable resource for planning where you want to hunt and will help you balance drawing odds and hunt success odds to meet your needs.

Hunt Arizona and all the other materials needed to apply can be found at www.azgfd.gov/draw. Additionally, regulations, application forms, and envelopes are available at more than 300 license dealers statewide.

Please note: Department office locations will be open until 7 p.m. on deadline day to receive dropped-off applications; however, the front counter customer service for regular business transactions, including buying licenses, still close at 5 p.m.

Wildfire Information
There are currently three significant wildfires burning in Arizona. The Arizona Game and Fish Department, although a wildlife agency, is a community-minded organization, and is concerned for the citizens and communities that have been displaced, lost property, and endured hardships from these tragic events.

Dozens of Game and Fish law enforcement officers are assisting the firefighting effort by helping with evacuations, security, and sharing important on-the-ground knowledge of the community and landscape with incident management teams.

It is far too early to know the short-term or long-term impacts the fire will have to habitat, wildlife, waters, access, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation until the fires are put out and crews can go in and make an assessment.

The Wallow Fire in northeastern Arizona on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests lies within Game Management Units 1 and 27; popular hunts in these units include elk, antelope, deer, turkey and bear.

There are two fires burning in the Coronado National Forest, the Horseshoe Two, primarily Unit 29 and portions of Unit 30A; and the Murphy Complex, which encompasses Unit 36A, 36B, and 36C. Both of these areas are popular for hunting mule deer, white-tailed deer, javelina, and small game.

For those who have applied for or already have a hunting permit in any of these units, there are no provisions in state law (ARS §17-332) or Commission rule for Game and Fish to issue any refunds, reinstate bonus points or offer a rain-check.

However, worth noting, is that until the fires are put out, there is no certainty what the conditions will be in these areas, and hunters could find conditions ranging from area closures to near-normal conditions come hunting season. As an example, here is what the department found in Unit 3C in the aftermath of the huge Rodeo-Chediski Fire in 2002:

Of the Unit 3C habitat on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests impacted by the fire, 28 percent was determined to be severely burned, 19 percent moderately burned, 26 percent low impact, and 27 percent was unburned.

There was no significant reduction in the availability of big game animals in the fall hunts.

Department personnel conducted two aerial surveys and several ground surveys in the unit after the fire. There was no evidence of any large migration of elk or deer out of the burn area. With the onset of the monsoon, it is anticipated that a significant portion of Units 1 and 27 will have adequate forage, and that elk will be well distributed prior to the hunts.

For those that are still planning to apply for a fall hunt, you may want to take these variables into consideration when applying.

Game and Fish will continue to provide information related to wildlife, habitat, and outdoor recreation in these areas as more is learned at www.azgfd.gov.

To stay informed on fire incident information, visit www.inciweb.org.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Arizona is currently experiencing one of its worst wildfire seasons on record.

As of June 10, 2011, the Wallow Fire in eastern Arizona, which began on May 29, has burned about 400,000 acres, making it the second-worst wildfire in the state’s history thus far. The fire is five percent contained as of this writing.

Two other major wildfires are also burning in the state: the Horseshoe Two Fire, which began May 8 and has consumed more than 125,000 acres in the southeast part of the state (40 percent contained as of June 10), and the Murphy Fire, which began May 30 and has burned more than 65,000 acres in the southern part of the state (75 percent contained as of June 10). The state is extremely dry and is at high risk of other wildfires until summer monsoon rains arrive.

Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the communities that have been so significantly impacted by these fires, and our heartfelt thanks go to the firefighters and support personnel who are diligently working to bring these fires under control. Game and Fish currently has more than 30 wildlife officers working with the incident management teams or local law enforcement in support of the firefighting efforts.

Hunters, anglers, wildlife watchers and other outdoor recreationists will undoubtedly have questions about what impact the fires will have on wildlife, hunting, fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities in those areas. We have developed a new web page with information that may answer some of your questions. New and updated information will continue to be added to this web page as it becomes available.

To view the web page, visit www.azgfd.gov/wildfires.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s game branch is hosting 11 public meetings across the state to discuss revisions being considered for the hunt guidelines.

The document is now in the draft state and is available for the public to review, take a survey, and provide their comments.

For example, some of the questions being considered are:

• When do you think quail seasons should open?
• What do you think is the best strategy to provide juniors-only turkey hunts?
• How do you feel about managing for low numbers of elk or mountain lion in certain areas?

“This is your opportunity guide us in meeting our varied hunting public’s needs, as well as continuing our hunting heritage for future generations,” said Chief of Game Management, Brian Wakeling. “We’ve been collecting comments since April and this is a first look at those items being considered.”

The hunt guidelines provide the biological and social parameters used to formulate the annual hunt recommendations and go through a public review process every two years.

The meetings consist of a presentation given by key staff biologists, who can answer questions, provide background, and other details about the process. For those who are unable to attend or prefer to review the materials at their own pace, all of the information is available online at www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines.

Additionally, at these meetings, you will also have the opportunity to discuss wildlife-related recreational access issues. The public’s wildlife often inhabits private lands or habitats surrounded by private lands. Private landowners have legitimate concerns about their private property, yet access to wildlife can be an equally legitimate public concern. Your input on this delicate issue will help inform the Game and Fish Commission on future decisions.

All of the meetings run from 6-8 p.m. per the following schedule and locations:

• June 6, Flagstaff – Flagstaff Game and Fish regional office at 3500 S. Lake Mary Road.
• June 7, Page – Glen Canyon National Recreation Headquarters Office.
• June 9, Phoenix – Game and Fish headquarters office at 5000 W. Carefree Highway.
• June 13, Pinetop – Pinetop Game and Fish regional office at 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd.
• June 14, Payson – Best Western Payson Inn at 801 North Beeline Highway.
• June 15, Mesa – Mesa Game and Fish regional office at 7200 E. University Drive.
• June 16, Yuma – Yuma Game and Fish regional office at 9140 E. 28th St.
• June 20, Prescott – County of Yavapai Board of Supervisors office at 1015 Fair St.
• June 21, Tucson – International Wildlife Museum at 4800 W. Gates Pass Road.
• June 22, Sierra Vista – Sierra Vista Police Department at 911 N Coronado Drive.
• June 23, Kingman – Kingman Game and Fish regional office at 5325 N Stockton Hill Road.

After all the comments and surveys are received, reviewed, and processed, the department will prepare a final draft of the hunt guidelines to present to the Game and Fish Commission at its Aug. 26-27 meeting in Phoenix.

Once finalized, these guidelines (with commission approval) are used for setting the season dates, structures, permit levels, and more for the 2012-2014 hunting regulations.

Visit www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines for a copy of the draft guidelines, to take the survey online, to provide your comments, and to learn more about the hunt guideline and recommendation processes.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Don’t miss out on the new season of Arizona Wildlife Views, the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Emmy-winning television show, which begins Tuesday, May 31, at 7:30 p.m. on KAET (Arizona PBS Channel .

The 13-week run of new episodes will air on Tuesdays (except when pre-empted by special events), giving viewers the chance to take an in-depth look at the enjoyment of Arizona’s great outdoors.

Mark your calendar to tune in at 7:30 p.m. this Tuesday for some fascinating wildlife stories. You’ll learn about endangered Sonoran pronghorn that are being raised as part of a captive breeding program and then released into the wild.

You’ll also see how two countries came together to facilitate medical treatment to save a rare jaguar brought here from northern Mexico. And, you’ll meet a family of Harris hawks who have built their nest and are raising their young in an urban neighborhood.

For more information about upcoming Arizona Wildlife Views episodes, visit www.azgfd.gov/i_e/awv_tv_shows.shtml.

For the Arizona PBS Channel 8 schedule, visit www.azpbs.org/schedule.php.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Janay Brun, 39, of Sasabe, Ariz., executed a diversion agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office yesterday (May 12) where she admitted to committing an Attempted Take of an Endangered Species, which is a violation of the Endangered Species Act.

Brun admitted under oath before U.S. District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson to placing jaguar scat at a snare site in an attempt to capture the jaguar known as Macho B.

Under the terms of the agreement, the criminal charges against Brun will be dismissed and not be reinstated if she complies with the terms of the diversion agreement; namely that she not be involved in any jaguar or large cat study in the United States for 12 months and that she not violate any federal, state, or local law.

On Feb. 4, 2009, at or near Ruby, Ariz., in the Atascosa Mountain region, Brun and Emil McCain placed jaguar scat near snare sites in an attempt to capture and trap the jaguar known as Macho B.

McCain had previously been a subcontractor for Game and Fish, but only to capture mountain lions and bears, not jaguars. As the department previously has stated, at the time of Macho B’s initial capture in February 2009, McCain was acting independently and was neither a subcontractor nor a formal volunteer for the department.

McCain worked with Brun as part of the Borderlands Jaguar Detection Project, whose main task was photographing and tracking jaguar activity in Southern Arizona.

According to court documents:

Brun knew that there had been recent evidence of Macho B’s presence in the area of the snares. The snares had been set for the purpose of capturing and placing tracking collars on mountain lions and bears; there was no authorization or permission to intentionally capture a jaguar. The jaguar known as Macho B was caught at a snare site where Brun placed scat on February 18, 2009.

McCain plead guilty in May 2010 to unlawfully taking a jaguar in violation of the Endangered Species Act, and he received five years probation with the condition that he not participate in any jaguar or large cat study in the United States for that period, and a $1,000 fine.

Brun’s admission conclusively establishes her true involvement in this matter and supports the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s long-standing assertion that there was no authorization from the department for the capture of Macho B.

Even though Game and Fish did not authorize the capture of Macho B, it had a valid permit covering either the incidental or intentional take of a jaguar for conservation purposes. The validity of the permit was affirmed earlier this year by two federal judges.

“Following the extensive two-year federal investigation, resulting in two separate court actions, it has been shown that the Arizona Game and Fish Department did have a valid permit covering incidental or intentional take of a jaguar, did not authorize the initial capture of Macho B, and that no department employees have been implicated in criminal wrongdoing in the actions resulting in Macho B’s capture,” said Larry Voyles, Game and Fish director. “Additionally, inaccurate and misleading accusations of criminal wrongdoing by the department, made in the media and by other sources, are simply unfounded and irresponsible.”

One Game and Fish employee, Thornton W. Smith, was dismissed in May 2010 as a result of admissions he made during the department’s internal investigation: that he had lied to federal investigators. Those admissions were related to actions Smith took several weeks after Macho B’s capture, recapture and euthanization, and not to his actions during the initial capture.

Voyles added that the department’s own internal investigation continues to be open and ongoing.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- A $25 raffle ticket could put an Arizona Game and Fish Commission’s special big game permit for elk or bighorn in your pocket.

How would you like a chance to pursue mule deer during the rut on the Kaibab for just a $20 ticket?

Welcome to the Big Game Super Raffle, where your dreams can come true.

A consortium of nonprofit conservation groups partner together to raffle off one each of the 10 special big game tags (issued by the commission) to raise funds for wildlife conservation projects that directly benefit those species (and many others indirectly) in Arizona.

Winners will be able to hunt for 365 days almost anywhere in the state of Arizona during a special 2011-12 hunting season.

To cover the administrative costs of the raffle there are two bonus items: an incredible Swarovski optic package valued at $7000, ticket cost of only $10; and, a guided trophy elk hunt in New Mexico valued at $6,500, ticket cost of only $20.

For $150, you get one ticket for each of the 12 items up for raffle, that’s only $12.50 a ticket.

Now that you’re excited, here is the icing on the cake. While there will obviously be 12 very happy winners, the real winners are Arizona’s wildlife and habitats. The money raised from the Super Raffle goes right back on the ground to wildlife conservation in Arizona. So buy a ticket, support wildlife and we all win.

Tickets can be purchased by mail or online. The deadline for mail orders is July 15. Online orders are available until July 17. The public drawing will be held July 21.

For more details, order form, and deadlines, visit www.arizonabiggamesuperraffle.com.

To learn how funds raised through the raffle are benefiting wildlife, visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Habitat Partnership Committee webpage at www.azgfd.gov/w_c/hpc.shtml.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department does not receive any of the state’s general funds to operate. Wildlife conservation and management of the state’s game animals, which also benefits many non-game species, is made possible through a user-pay, user-benefit system. Funding from the direct sale of hunting and fishing licenses, big game tags, and matching funds from the Pittman-Robertson Act, a federal excise tax that sportsmen pay on guns, ammunition and related equipment, remain the backbone of wildlife conservation in North America.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Hunters will be happy to hear that printed copies of the 2011-12 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations are now available at all Arizona Game and Fish offices and more than 300 license dealers statewide.

For those interested in applying for one of the limited tags issued through the drawing process, get your application submitted by May 27 (5 p.m. MST) to take advantage of the correction period.

If your application is received by the correction period deadline and has a mistake, Game and Fish will attempt to call you three times in a 24-hour period and give you the opportunity to correct the mistake. After that date, mistakes can cause your application to be rejected.

Applications must be either hand-delivered to one of the seven Game and Fish offices or sent by U.S. mail to:

Drawing Section
Arizona Game and Fish Department
PO Box 74020
Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052

The fall drawing cycle allocates the limited hunt permit-tags for deer (rifle and some archery), fall turkey, fall javelina, bighorn sheep, fall buffalo and pheasant.

The application deadline for the fall drawing cycle is Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 7 p.m. (MST). Postmarks do not count and there is no online application process available.

The 2011-12 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations contain information on how to fill out an application, how the draw works, license requirements, hunt numbers, season dates, number of permits available, and other pertinent information for the hunter. Also included in these regulations are the seasons for quail, rabbit, tree squirrel, predator and fur-bearing animals. The small game opener is set for Friday, September 30.

To learn more about the drawing process, hunting season dates, and more, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.

Deer hunting camps for new young hunters
Seasoned hunters, if you know a youngster that has shown an interest in going deer hunting here is a great opportunity. Local hunting conservation groups are hosting three mentored hunting camps for kids with a juniors-only deer permit. These camps offer expert instruction on hunting, safety, camping, game care, and other useful information for first-time hunters. To enjoy one of these camps, apply for a tag for the hunt number for the camp that best fits your schedule and location:

• Wickenburg area, Nov. 18-20: Apply for hunt number 1165, juniors-only deer. The Unit 42 Juniors Deer Camp is hosted by Wickenburg sportsmen and local businesses.
• Wickenburg area, Nov. 18–20: Apply for hunt number 1155, juniors-only deer. The Unit 20C Juniors Deer Camp is hosted by Youth Outdoors Unlimited.
• Green Valley area, Nov. 18–20: Apply for hunt number 1163* or 1164*, juniors-only deer. The Unit 36A/36B Juniors Deer Camp is hosted by the Arizona Chapter of Safari Club International.
• *These hunts are eligible for a corresponding javelina tag (see below).

Double up your harvest
To give kids twice the reason to go hunting this season, Game and Fish is offering a companion javelina tag in some of the juniors-only deer hunts.

The hunts that qualify are hunt numbers 1159, 1160, 1163, 1164 and 1177 (general hunt areas include units 28, 29, 30A, 30B, 31, and 32 for one hunt; 33; 36A; 36B; and a 16A muzzleloader hunt). The companion tag (restricted nonpermit-tag, population management hunt) can be purchased over-the-counter from Game and Fish offices for $15.

Arizona Hunting & Trapping Regulations 2011-12

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department today announced that the 2011-12 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations are available online at www.azgfd.gov/draw and the application period for the draw is now open.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 7 p.m. (MST) is the deadline to submit an application for a hunting permit issued through the draw for deer, fall turkey, fall javelina, bighorn sheep, fall buffalo, and pheasant.

Those submitting an application are reminded that postmarks do not count and there is no online application process available.

Applications must be either hand-delivered to one of the seven Game and Fish offices or sent by U.S. mail to:

Drawing Section
Arizona Game and Fish Department
PO Box 74020
Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052

The 2011-12 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations contain information on how to fill out an application, how the draw works, license requirements, hunt numbers, season dates, number of permits available, and other pertinent information for the hunter.

Another valuable online resource for hunters when applying for a permit is the Hunt Arizona: Survey, Harvest and Draw Data guide. This book contains nearly 200 pages of information on species and hunt areas including the odds of being drawn, harvest success rates, and more.

To aid your application process there is a digital editable PDF application that can be typed using a computer and then printed, signed, and submitted to Game and Fish. Alternatively, print a blank copy of the form, fill it out using an ink pen, and then submit in the same fashion.

Regardless of how you fill or submit your application, be sure to apply early and take advantage of the correction period. Here is how it works: If your application has a mistake and is received before May 27 at 5 p.m. MST, Game and Fish will attempt to call you three times in a 24-hour period and give you the opportunity to correct the mistake. After that date, mistakes can cause your application to be rejected.

Printed copies of the regulations are anticipated to be available at all Game and Fish offices the second week of May (9-15).

To learn more about the drawing process, hunting season dates and more, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.

Youth deer hunting camps
Kids ages 10-17 can learn to hunt deer from experienced sportsmen at hosted hunting camps. These camps help young hunters and their families reconnect with the outdoors and learn about the hunting heritage. Each camp offers expert instruction on hunting, safety, camping, game care, and other useful information for first-time hunters. To enjoy one of these camps, apply for a tag for the hunt number for the camp that best fits your schedule and location:

• Wickenburg area, Nov. 18-20: Apply for hunt number 1165, juniors-only deer.
  The Unit 42 Juniors Deer Camp is hosted by Wickenburg sportsmen and local businesses.
• Wickenburg area, Nov. 18–20: Apply for hunt number 1155, juniors-only deer.
  The Unit 20C Juniors Deer Camp is hosted by Youth Outdoors Unlimited.
• Green Valley area, Nov. 18–20: Apply for hunt number 1163 or 1164, juniors-only deer.

The Unit 36A/36B Juniors Deer Camp is hosted by the Arizona Chapter of Safari Club International. These hunts are eligible for a corresponding javelina tag (see below).

Two hunts, same area, same season
To give kids twice the reason to go hunting this season, Game and Fish is offering a javelina tag in some of the juniors-only deer hunts. The hunts that qualify are hunt numbers 1159, 1160, 1163, 1164 and 1177 (general hunt areas include units 28, 29, 30A, 30B, 31, and 32 for one hunt; 33; 36A; 36B; and a 16A muzzleloader hunt). The companion tag (restricted nonpermit-tag, population management hunt) can be purchased over-the-counter from Game and Fish offices for $15.

Buy a ticket, support wildlife
To increase your odds in getting a big game tag, and possibly one of a lifetime, take part in the Arizona Big Game Super Raffle. There are 10 special big game tags (issued by the commission) and every dollar raised for these tags goes directly towards management projects that benefit that species in Arizona. Winners will be able to hunt for 365 days almost anywhere in the state of Arizona during a special 2011-12 hunting season. Tickets range from $5-25. For more details, order form, and deadlines, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.

Arizona Hunting & Trapping Regulations 2011-12

The Arizona Game and Fish Department does not receive any of the state’s general funds to operate. Wildlife conservation and management of the state’s game animals, which also benefits many non-game species, is made possible through a user-pay, user-benefit system. Funding from the direct sale of hunting and fishing licenses, big game tags, and matching funds from the Pittman-Robertson Act, a federal excise tax that sportsmen pay on guns, ammunition and related equipment, remain the backbone of wildlife conservation in North America.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Shooting sports enthusiasts, on the early show April 12, 2011, KNXV-15 television showed a report on the pending hearings in Congress on extended capacity magazines for handguns.

They used a backdrop of our Ben Avery Shooting Facility entrance sign for their video reporter’s standup. Attached is a letter from us to Channel 15 regarding that story.

From my standpoint and important for you to know:

• Ben Avery Shooting Facility is the place where legal recreational shooting and archery takes place with families, youngsters in Hunter Education, Olympic hopefuls practice and compete, and a host of shooting disciplines enjoy safe, responsible use of firearms.
• Law enforcement officers practice and qualify with pistols, rifles and shotguns…nearly every day of the week, with most all local, state and federal agencies participating.
• Ben Avery is a “Phoenix Point of Pride”. There are only 31 “Points” in the valley.
• The tragedy in Tucson should in no way be linked to our range nor to the legal, responsible use of firearms.
• Rather than chastise, our approach to Channel 15’s managing editor was to inform and offer another viewpoint for them to consider.
• We invited them to come and see what Ben Avery Shooting Facility is about as well as gave them the dates of next year’s Outdoor Expo on which they will hopefully do one or more stories.

As issues like these arise in the future, I have directed staff to respond in a professional, courteous manner to correct misinformation and offer “the rest of the story” as Paul Harvey was famous for doing. In that light, I wanted you to know.

Attachment

April 12, 2011

Andy Ramirez, Managing Editor
KNXV-15 TV
515 N. 44th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85008

Dear Andy:

I watched the news story that ran on Channel 15 this morning by Hatzel Vela on the hearings in our nation’s capital on extended capacity magazines for handguns. I was appalled that your producers chose the backdrop of our Ben Avery Shooting Facility entrance sign to discuss the issue of a mentally unstable person’s actions in Tucson in January. This was an act of violence and in the opinion of many…terrorism. The media has a responsibility to help the public understand the difference between responsible firearms owners and not confuse that with those in society that misuse firearms, or any other device turned into a weapon, to the detriment of society. The difference between the two is not even comparable, yet your piece invited viewers to make that connection. How is that balanced and objective?

Ben Avery is a Game and Fish Department-owned shooting range where shotgun, pistol, rifle and archery enthusiasts can pursue SAFE, responsible shooting activities. It is also the place that hundreds of youngsters each year get safety training and hunter education, learn the responsibilities of owning and using firearms, and the ethics of hunting. The City of Phoenix has awarded Ben Avery as one of Phoenix’s Points of Pride, a recognition of special parks, cultural facilities, historic residences and mountain peaks, that contribute to the quality of life in the Valley and foster a sense of community pride.

Law enforcement from most of the Valley police departments, DPS and other state agencies (including Arizona Game and Fish Rangers) and most of the federal law enforcement agencies use the facility to practice and qualify with their issued firearms. Their job is to be proficient and able to bring their weapons into use if needed, and Ben Avery serves a critical role in ensuring they are better prepared to protect you and me, or themselves from “the bad guys!”

Lastly, why not choose to do a more progressive, positive story on shooting, like our Outdoor Expo event in March where 42,000 people visited Ben Avery in three days to see and experience responsible shooting sports? More than 50,000 rounds were fired safely, many by first-time shooters. We would like to invite Channel 15 to come out and participate in next year’s Outdoor Expo and report on what responsible, ethical, and SAFE shooting is all about. That date is March 31 & April 1, 2012. An invitation is extended for anytime you would like to do a story on what is available at Ben Avery or any of the other six shooting ranges the Commission owns.

If you would like to discuss this issue, please call me directly at (623) 236-7226.

Sincerely,

Jim Paxon
Information Branch Chief

Arizona Game And Fish Commission Eliminates Pronghorn Hunts Because Of Private Property Concerns

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Faced with the loss of public access to a vast area of Game Management Unit 19B north of Prescott, the Arizona Game and Fish Commission on March 23 decided to cancel the pronghorn antelope hunt there prior to the big game draw for the 2011 season.

The commission’s decision affects the hunting prospects for 65 hunters who would have received allocated tags.

Commission Chairman Robert Woodhouse said, “There have been closures of other hunt units for a season or more based on biological reasons such as severe winter die offs, loss of habitat due to fires, etc. … but this was the first time a decision was made to eliminate hunt tags due to public access closures. This was a difficult decision made only after extensive staff input and a long discussion by the commission.”

During the discussion, commissioners pointed out that this was a “no-win situation” for the commission, the department, and for the hunters who applied for the general and archery pronghorn antelope hunts in Unit 19B this fall, but the commission was compelled to do what was most fair to all concerned.

Late last week, the property manager for the Chino Grande Ranch, which is a checkerboard of private and state trust land parcels, verbally notified the department that the ranch is now closed to public access, due to a proposed renewable energy project. Access to other portions of the unit has also become restricted, with some private lands being closed entirely and other ranches allowing access by payment of “trespass” fees.

The Chino Grande Ranch contains a significant portion of the available pronghorn habitat in 19B, and its lands also hold the greatest density of pronghorn numbers in the unit.

The deadline to apply for the upcoming draw was Feb. 8 and the draw results are pending, giving the commission only days to modify the affected hunts without affecting thousands of other hunters.

There are 4,780 people who applied for the 65 pronghorn antelope hunt permits in the two hunts (one general hunt and one archery hunt) scheduled for 19B. Game Branch Chief Brian Wakeling said “the antelope hunts in 19B are some of the most coveted in the state.”

The commission also considered reducing the number of permits in the hunt but after significant discussion, the members felt that option would do a disservice to those who applied, as the area left open for 2011 would differ substantially from that available when hunters applied in February.

With the elimination of these two hunts, the draw program will treat any choice where these hunts were selected as if all tags had been issued and move to the applicant’s next choice. The draw examines first and second choices primarily and then third, fourth, and fifth choices secondarily. The majority of the commissioners felt that to be the most equitable approach.

The commission also expressed its desire to open up a dialogue on the whole land access and wildlife availability issue with land management agencies, county governments and stakeholders to include hunters, anglers and other recreationists. At issue is access to public lands and state trust lands and the management of public resources, such as wildlife and fish.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Commission, today, unanimously approved the master site plan for the future Northern Arizona Shooting Range.

“Approval of the site design is a huge step towards filling the more than 40 year void for a designated shooting venue in Northern Arizona,” said Chief of Shooting Ranges for Game and Fish, Jay Cook.

The design approved reflects slight modifications from the draft presented to the public at the open house last week where more than 100 persons attended, providing 55 comments on the plan. Public input from that meeting resulted in increasing the archery range from 50 yards to 100 yards.

The other significant change was to the 800-yard long distance rifle range which is now oriented to true north with lateral safety and sound berming on each side of the range. Although more costly, these changes were made based on input from competitive long-range shooters and sound concerns from Walnut Canyon National Monument.

Cook added, “With the approved plan, we can now begin to address the details of the range and develop a safe shooting range on the Foster Ranch site that is compatible with other public uses and values in the area.”

View Draft Master Plan For Arizona Shooting Range

The range will be developed in stages over the next couple of years based on funding, resources, weather conditions, and many other factors. To keep up-to-date on the progress of the range, visit www.azgfd.gov/nazsr.

Game and Fish receives no tax dollars from the state’s general fund and operates under a user-pay, user-benefit model.

The property was purchased and will be developed through the sale of licenses to hunters and anglers. A $3 surcharge is imposed on hunting and fishing licenses to acquire, construct, renovate, or improve Game and Fish facilities.

The fund for the development of the Northern Arizona Shooting Range was established beginning in 2001.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities.

If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Commission will be presented with the Northern Arizona Shooting Range conceptual master plan site design for their approval, at their regularly scheduled meeting Friday.

The design achieves a multiuse-facility on the 160-acre commission-owned property with capabilities for law enforcement training, hunter education, rifle and pistol shooting, shotgun shooting sports, archery, rifle sight-in, and onsite facilities.

“We are very happy that we were able to incorporate many of the elements of a regional range into this design and within the footprint of the property,” said Chief of Shooting Ranges for Game and Fish, Jay Cook.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has collected extensive input from a variety of sources since September 2010, including public open houses; a user group survey; letters from and meetings with neighboring stakeholders; and consultation with national shooting range industry experts to compile the conceptual master plan site design being presented.

Cook added, “We are confident that the faint distant reports/echoes from the range in the areas open to the visitors of Walnut Canyon will be further reduced through the range construction process and other mitigation methods which will inherently reduce sound emitted from the range.”

Understanding there are concerns regarding the site location of the shooting range, Game and Fish has compiled a list addressing many of the common topics of concern to provide constituents with more information about the long and complicated process for developing a pubic shooting range.

Three common concerns are:

* Isn’t Game and Fish disregarding its own advice after opposing a road at the monument in 2002?
Response: Game and Fish did support the preferred alternative with some concerns, most notably the proposed road and hiking trail which would have fragmented wildlife corridors, wildlife access to the rim’s edge, and brought human disturbance directly into critical habitat areas of the canyon.

* Won’t gunshots disturb the natural quiet?
Response: During the independent sound study, before any sound mitigation measures, with the Rim Trail was closed to the public, the natural quiet was 48 dBA, and even then, only faint distant reports were slightly audible and not measurable.

* Won’t wildlife be disturbed?
Response: The shooting range site was selected with the knowledge that it was outside of any critical habitat areas or movement corridors. Game and Fish is following the appropriate environmental analysis and works closely with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on any concerns for sensitive, threatened, or endangered species.

For a complete listing of common topics of concern, and to learn more about the Northern Arizona Shooting Range, visit www.azgfd.gov/nazsr.

The commission meeting is Friday, March 11 at the Game and Fish Department headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway in Phoenix (1.5 miles west of I-17). The public session begins at 8 a.m.

The public can view the meeting any of three ways: (1) attending the meeting in person in Phoenix; (2) viewing it via video stream at any of six Game and Fish regional offices; or, (3) viewing it over the Web at www.azgfd.gov/commissioncam.

Those wishing to submit “blue slips” to present oral comment during the meeting must do so either at the Phoenix meeting or at any of the regional Game and Fish offices (Pinetop, Flagstaff, Kingman, Yuma, Tucson and Mesa).

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Senate today confirmed Governor Jan Brewer’s appointment of Robert E. Mansell to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

Mr. Mansell, from Winslow, was one of three candidates submitted to Governor Brewer in November 2010 by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board. The governor appointed him to the commission in December to replace Jennifer Martin, whose term expired this year.

Mr. Mansell is a lifelong Arizona resident and outdoorsman, hunter, angler, boater, pilot and community leader. He had a long and distinguished career in public school administration, including service as superintendent of the Winslow Unified School District from 2003-2009.

He has been active in the community, including past service on the Winslow City Council, the Winslow Memorial Hospital Board, and the Winslow Rotary Club. He is a life member of the National Rifle Association.

Mr. Mansell’s father and uncle, both now deceased, served as fish hatchery superintendents at the Canyon Creek and Tonto Creek hatcheries, respectively.

“I look forward to serving on the commission and working for the interests of wildlife and Arizona’s citizens,” said Mr. Mansell. “I grew up knowing biologists and game rangers, so I have a unique perspective on the management and conservation of fish and wildlife in Arizona.”

The Arizona Game and Fish Commission makes rules and regulations for managing, conserving, and protecting wildlife and fisheries resources, and safe and regulated watercraft and off-highway vehicle operations for the benefit of the citizens of Arizona.

The commission is composed of five members appointed by the governor pursuant to ARS 38-211. The commission appoints the director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and the director serves as secretary to the commission. No more than one commissioner may be from any one county. No more than three may be from the same political party. Each commissioner serves a five-year term, staggered. For more information on the commission, visit www.azgfd.gov/commission.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director’s Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director’s Office as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Located in a prime riparian area near where the Salt and Agua Fria rivers join the Gila River, the “Three Rivers” Festival emphasizes local animals, plants, ecological relationships and recreational opportunities.

Attendees will be able to see live wildlife up close, go canoeing, try archery, fish, view local birds, hike and learn about recycling and green-living.

A true family event, the Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival will feature a special area for children with hands-on activities centered around nature, recycling and the outdoors.

A recycling fashion show, live entertainment – including the popular Backporch Bandits bluegrass group – and numerous other features will give the annual event a true festival flavor.

The event is typically held at the Base and Meridian Wildlife Area near the Phoenix International Raceway, but was moved in 2010 and 2011 due to the possibility of heavier than normal water flows down the Gila River.

Enjoy The Outdoors At The Family-Friendly Tres Rios Nature & Earth Festival

Activities run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

The festival will be held at 14805 W. Vineyard, 5 ½ miles south of Interstate 10 off of Estrella Parkway. Signs will provide visitors with further directions. The event is free, although a $3 per vehicle entrance fee will be charged by the park. Some children’s rides will also require a small fee.

For more information, visit www.tresriosnaturefestival.com or call the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce at (623) 932-2260.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department reports no detection of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in any of the 1,417 testable samples from hunter-harvested or road-killed deer and elk during Arizona’s 2010-11 hunting season.

Game and Fish has tested nearly 16,000 deer and elk samples since beginning its surveillance program in 1998.

To date, none have tested positive for the disease.

Although CWD has not yet been found in Arizona, it is present in the three neighboring states of Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico.

“We remain steadfast in our sampling efforts in high-risk areas, nearly tripling the number of tested samples compared to last year in Game Management Units 1, 27 and unit 28 (areas bordering Utah and New Mexico),” said Anne Justice-Allen, DVM, wildlife health specialist with the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Another improvement to the program is easy access to test results. A web-based online system at www.azgfd.gov/cwd allows you to enter your name, phone number, permit and hunt number to obtain results, rather than waiting for a mailed post card with those results.

“The online system is a great improvement to get individual test results out as quickly as possible,” said Justice-Allen. “This monitoring program is made possible by Arizona’s hunters, meat processors, and taxidermists who continue to provide the samples we need and we hope this new tool will make the process easier for them too.”

Each year, hunters who are successful in the Game Management Units bordering Utah and New Mexico, particularly Units 1, 12B, 27, and 28, are encouraged to submit heads for sampling because these units are closest to CWD positive areas. Arizona deer and elk from these areas have the greatest potential to have contact with an infected animal from these neighboring states.

While it is only mandatory to bring animals harvested from Units 12A East and 12A West to the Kaibab check station, hunters may also bring animals harvested from other units to the check station for CWD sampling during the regular hours of operation.

About CWD
CWD is a neurodegenerative wildlife disease that is fatal to cervids, which include deer, elk, and moose. Symptoms include loss of body weight or emaciation, excessive salivation, increased drinking and urination, stumbling, trembling, and behavioral changes such as listlessness, lowering of the head, and walking in circles or repetitive patterns.

No evidence has been found to indicate that CWD will cause disease in humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.

CWD was first identified in captive deer in Colorado in 1967 and has since spread to both captive and wild cervids in 18 states and two Canadian provinces. It is a naturally occurring prion disease belonging to a group of diseases called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Other TSEs are Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in domestic cattle and Scrapie in sheep and goats.

The department has had rules in place since 2002, which designate cervids as restricted wildlife and ban the importation of cervids in order to protect against the introduction of CWD to free-ranging or captive wildlife in the state (for details see R12-4-406 and R-4-430). Additionally, Game and Fish has a CWD Prevention, Detection, Response, and Management Plan that provides a logical process to manage issues related to CWD in Arizona.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department will continue to work in close coordination with other state and federal agencies to monitor for CWD.

For more information on CWD, visit these website resources:

* Arizona Game and Fish Department’s CWD program at www.azgfd.gov/cwd
* Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance at www.cwd-info.org
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/cwd

About:
The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department is hosting an informational open house to present the draft master site-plan for the Northern Arizona Shooting Range on Thursday, March 3 from 5:30-8 p.m.

The meeting will be held at the Game and Fish Flagstaff regional office at 3500 S. Lake Mary Road.

“This is a great opportunity for the public to provide input on the latest draft design, and get first-hand information about the efforts the department is taking to balance the needs for a shooting range and being good neighbors in the community,” said Jay Cook, chief of shooting ranges for Game and Fish.

On display at the self-paced open house will be the latest proposed range design, capabilities of the facility, and examples of range construction methods that assure safety and further mitigate sound.

View Draft Master Plan For Arizona Shooting Range

The draft design is in the final stages and addresses many of the needs for a shooting range in northern Arizona, including law enforcement training, hunter education, rifle sight-in, a long-distance rifle range, shotgun sports, and onsite camping. All of the facility is within the 160-acre Foster Ranch property that was acquired by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission through a private land purchase.

Although no formal presentation will be made, key Game and Fish representatives will be on hand to answer questions, provide information, and take comments on the proposed range design.

The Department will continue to take public input on this updated draft design before finalizing and presenting it to the commission for approval, which is tentatively scheduled for the March 11-12 public meeting in Phoenix.

Visit www.azgfd.gov/nazsr to preview the current conceptual plan and other information about the Northern Arizona Shooting range including a way for those who are unable to attend the open house to submit their comments.

About sound
An independent sound study, conducted to state standards, found the sound emitted from the range to be in compliance even before any range construction.

“We understand for many, the discussion of guns and shooting ranges is unfamiliar and invokes concerns – particularly for noise. The Arizona Game and Fish Department is looking at the latest technologies in sound mitigation to build a state-of-the-art shooting range, and everything we do as required by range construction will further reduce the sounds that are already in compliance,” said Cook.

Range design components required by standards for safety and function such as earthen berms backstops, sound-absorbing shooting canopies, and natural landscape will further reduce sound from the range. Additionally, Game and Fish is committed to incorporating cost-effective measures when considering specific sound-mitigation design elements apart from the inherent design components of the range.

During the study at the Walnut Canyon’s Rim Trail observation point, the faint distant reports/echoes from the sound test were only slightly audible, but not measurable over the ambient sound levels (approximately 48 dBA), which would have been undetected amongst a normal conversation (approximately 55-60 dBA). Once again, this is before any construction and sound mitigation measures have been employed.

Background and history
Northern Arizona residents have been without a rifle and pistol shooting range since 1968. In 1994, closures of the local shotgun and archery ranges resulted in Flagstaff being one of Arizona’s largest communities without a designated place for recreational/competitive shooting and law enforcement training.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has looked at over 50 site locations, mostly public and then private (which have a different acquisition process than federal lands) over the last 15 years, seeking to establish a shooting range in northern Arizona.

In 2009, the Game and Fish Commission set its objectives (based on constituent input) for selecting a site for the shooting range as:

1. to be located within 30 minutes from downtown Flagstaff;
2. sized for a local range with potential to expand to a regional range; and
3. the ability to be operational by 2013 (3-5 years).

In July 2010, the commission purchased the private 160-acre Foster Ranch in Coconino County. The private purchase followed state regulations for acquisitions.

The public process on the range design began in September 2010, with input from user groups, the public and neighboring stakeholders. Additionally, the National Rifle Association, National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Association of Shooting Ranges, and other private industry consultants provided professional design consultation.

From all of these collaborations, Game and Fish took into consideration many elements, including safety, environmental concerns, sound mitigation, functionality, capabilities, training, education, and other shooting range requirements to create this conceptual master site plan for the deeded 160-acre, Arizona Game and Fish Commission-owned property.

Game and Fish receives no tax dollars from the state’s general fund and operates under a user-pay, user-benefit model. The property was purchased and will be developed through the sale of licenses to hunters and anglers. A $3 surcharge is imposed on hunting and fishing licenses to acquire, construct, renovate, or improve Game and Fish facilities. The fund for the development of the Northern Arizona Shooting Range was established beginning in 2001.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department will host a webcast and public meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 6:30 p.m. to develop a Comprehensive Game Management Plan (CGMP) for advancing the management of the state’s game animals and their habitats.

“The vision of Comprehensive Game Management is to develop a tool linking existing management plans with the latest visual data of development paths, wildlife corridors, critical habitat areas, and other data for a holistic view for management,” said Brian Wakeling, chief of game management for Game and Fish.

The public can view the proceedings of the meeting in any of three ways:

1. live webcast at www.azgfd.gov/webcast;
2. by video conference at all six regional Game and Fish offices;
3. in person at the Game and Fish headquarters office at 5000 W. Carefree Highway in Phoenix.

The public can provide comments and ask questions in person, or via e-mail to webcast@azgfd.gov. Questions e-mailed early in the presentation may be answered during the question-and-answer portion of the meeting; however, all comments will be considered in shaping the plan.

Wakeling added, “We are looking forward to giving this presentation to our constituents and getting their input to help us shape the Comprehensive Game Management Plan that will guide better decisions to protect, restore, and manage game populations in the 21st Century.”

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD’s programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Arizona Game and Fish Department officers in the Pinetop Region donated more than 3,100 pounds of wild game meat and fish to local charitable organizations and food banks located throughout the White Mountains area during 2010, report department officials.

“We’re happy to see this program continue each year,” says Dan Dymond, law enforcement program manager in the department’s Pinetop office.

“Many of our less privileged residents in eastern Arizona receive nutritious meat they desperately need because of our officers’ extra efforts. Most of the donated game meat and fish comes from seizures resulting from various wildlife violations.”

Charitable organizations the department works with in the White Mountains include Shepherd’s Food Bank in the Snowflake/Taylor area, The Love Kitchen in Pinetop-Lakeside, and churches in the Springerville/Eagar area.

“We are thrilled with our partnership with Arizona Game and Fish,” says Chuck McMaster, founder and CEO of Shepherd’s Food Bank.

“With high unemployment in many areas fueling an even greater need for nutritious food items at food banks and feeding ministries, we really appreciate these donations and the efforts of these dedicated officers. We provide food boxes to more than 7,300 families each month throughout Navajo County, and this game meat goes a long way in helping us meet the needs of these families.”

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s mission, in part, is to conserve, enhance, and restore Arizona’s diverse wildlife resources and habitats through aggressive protection and management programs for the enjoyment, appreciation, and use by present and future generations. Visit the department’s website at www.azgfd.gov.