Pheasants Forever

Saint Paul, Minn. --(AmmoLand.com)- On Monday morning, 150,000 acres were opened to landowner enrollment through the Conservation Reserve Program’s (CRP) State Acres For wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) practice.

By Tuesday morning, states were already reporting their allotted acreages were fully enrolled. U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the reallocation of these SAFE acres just over two weeks ago on February 27th at Pheasants Foerver’s National Pheasant Fest in Des Moines, Iowa.

Iowa, Idaho, Minnesota, Nebraska, and both Dakotas have reported extremely high demand for the newly reallocated acres. Iowa filled their 9,000 acre reallocation by the end of Monday. Idaho expects to fully enroll their new 16,000 acre reallocation by the end of this week. Minnesota has also experienced high demand and expects their 10,800 acres to be gone soon. Nebraska landowners have offered well over their available 4,500 reallocated acres to once again cap out their two SAFE programs. North Dakota’s 18,000 acres were committed by the end of Tuesday. And, South Dakota’s 18,000 reallocated acres are also expected to be fully enrolled by week’s end with 11,000 under contract by Wednesday morning.

“There is obviously pent up demand for available SAFE acres from farmers and ranchers. That’s great news for wildlife,” reported Dave Nomsen, Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever’s Vice President of Government Affairs. “The wildlife success stories that SAFE has delivered, coupled with the landowner demand we are currently experiencing are certainly our two strongest allies as we go back to Secretary Vilsack and request additional SAFE acres.”

SAFE acres focus on environmentally sensitive land, as well as species that have suffered significant population declines and/or are considered to be socially or economically valuable. This is the newest CRP practice (CP 38). States and target species include North Dakota pheasants, South Dakota grassland birds, Idaho Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, Minnesota pheasants, Mississippi bobwhite quail, Nebraska upland habitats, Iowa pheasants and upland birds, Illinois pheasants and upland habitat, and Georgia bobwhite quail.

“Local Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency employees, along with Pheasants Forever Farm Bill biologists, deserve a tremendous amount of credit for turning these newly allocated SAFE acres into landowner contracts in such a short window of time,” added Nomsen.

Also during his National Pheasant Fest visit last month, Secretary Vilsack announced the reallocation of 100,000 acres for CRP’s “Bobwhite Buffers” practice (CP 33), 50,000 acres for CRP’s “Duck Nesting Habitat Initiative” practice (CP 37), and plans for the first general CRP signup in four years.

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High Demand for Conservation Reserve Program’s Reallocated SAFE Acres

GoHuntGeorgia.com

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. --(AmmoLand.com)- A convenient but critical way to support Georgia’s wildlife needs your help this tax season.

State income tax checkoff contributions to the Georgia Wildlife Conservation Fund have declined in recent years. While not an all-time low, contributions for the most recent fiscal year fell another 20 percent, or nearly $60,000 from the previous year.

Yet, the checkoff is a key fundraiser for the Wildlife Conservation Fund. The fund is administered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Non-game Conservation Section and dedicated to the conservation of non-game and endangered animals and plants statewide.

The Non-game Conservation Section receives no state funding for its mission to conserve non-game wildlife. Non-game includes native Georgia animals not legally hunted, fished for or trapped, as well as native plants, from sea turtles to songbirds and pitcher plants.

Jon Ambrose, assistant chief of the Non-game Conservation Section, said the Wildlife Conservation Fund is also used to attract federal and private research and conservation funding to Georgia. By using the fund as match, DNR gained $1 for every 25 cents spent from the fund over the past two years. The Nongame Conservation Section has averaged about $1.5 million a year in federal State Wildlife Grants over the past decade, Ambrose said.

The checkoff “is critical in terms of providing the match we need to get this funding from other sources,” he said.

The Give Wildlife a Chance checkoff has been a success since its creation in 1989. Thanks to the generosity of Georgians, more than $6 million has been raised. Contributions played a part in many conservation achievements, varying from the restoration of bald eagle populations to land acquisitions such as the prized Silver Lake Wildlife Management Area near Bainbridge.

That success story can continue with the help of conservation-minded Georgians.

This year, even in the midst of a recession, citizens can reverse the decline in checkoff contributions by filling in any amount more than $1 on line 27 of the state’s long tax form (Form 500) or line 10 of the short form (Form 500EZ). Contributions can be deducted from refunds or added to payments.

For more information, go to www.georgiawildlife.com/node/338, or call Nongame Conservation Section offices in Social Circle (770-761-3035), Forsyth (478-994-1438) or Brunswick (912-264-7218). State income tax forms are available online at https://etax.dor.ga.gov/.

The Nongame Conservation Section also benefits from sales of the bald eagle and ruby-throated hummingbird license plates, an annual fundraiser called Weekend for Wildlife, and donations. Details at www.georgiawildlife.com.

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Help Reverse Slide – Checkoff Funding For Georgia Wildlife on Your Taxes

Ducks Unlimited

WASHINGTON, DC – -(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited looks forward to working with the Administration to implement its plan to streamline and coordinate restoration efforts along the Gulf Coast.

The plan, developed under the leadership of the President’s Council on Environmental Quality, brings together stakeholders from the states, federal government, and organizations like Ducks

“The Gulf Coast is a sportsmen’s paradise,” said John Newman, first vice president for Ducks Unlimited and a coastal Louisiana resident. “It is very good to see that the Administration realizes the importance of these marshes to waterfowl, other wildlife, and people both locally and nationally. These wetlands are a national treasure and provide many, many benefits to people across the United States.”

The effort highlights the importance of waterfowl and wildlife habitat to the overall ecosystem restoration of the region.

“With 10 national wildlife refuges totaling over 300,000 acres in coastal Louisiana and Mississippi, the Department of the Interior recognizes the vital role that Gulf Coast wetlands play in supporting fish and wildlife resources, as well as the nation’s commerce and domestic energy,” said Department of Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks Tom Strickland.

Ducks Unlimited’s efforts to restore Gulf Coast wetlands are ongoing. The region comprises the most important wintering area for waterfowl in North America. The coastal marshes may winter over 15 million waterfowl and myriad other wetland-dependent migratory birds.

“We are pleased that the Administration sees the need for swift, large-scale action to save the Gulf Coast,” said Barton James, director of public policy for Ducks Unlimited. “Ducks Unlimited has been working to restore Gulf Coast wetlands for millions of wintering waterfowl for many years, and it is good to see this new commitment from the federal government to restore this vital national resource.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved over 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

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Ducks Unlimited Lauds New Roadmap for Gulf Coast Restoration

Ruffed Grouse Society

Montgomery City, MO --(AmmoLand.com)- The Mid-Missouri Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) will hold its 31st Annual Sportsmen’s Banquet on Saturday, March 20, 2010 at the, Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Montgomery City, MO beginning with a reception party at 4 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.

As has been the custom at this event, the evening will feature a live and silent auction, games, drawings and door prizes; highlighted with the finest selection of quality firearms, artwork and collectable’s.

According to Jamie Barton, individual membership and dinner tickets are $55. There is also an optional family membership package for $40 which includes membership for each household member and a 1-year subscription for one RGS magazine. Dinner tickets for this package are $30 for each attendee. Banquet, Conservation and Sustaining sponsorship packages are also available at $275, $500 and $1,000 respectively.

As with all RGS fundraisers, proceeds from this event will be used to restore and protect grouse and woodcock habitat.

For more information and/or tickets contact Barton at 573-564-3715, ext 8.

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Conservation Group To Hold Fundraiser Dinner In Montgomery City, MO

Ducks Unlimited

HELENA, Mont. --(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited supports legislation sponsored by Montana’s senators to protect the Upper Flathead Valley.

Sens. Max Bacus and Jon Tester introduced The North Fork Watershed Protection Act that protects the North Fork of the Flathead Drainage.

The legislation is in conjunction with a similar measure in British Columbia.

“The legislation will protect the water quality of downstream flows to key wetlands in this drainage area. This is a critical staging area for migrating waterfowl and supports more than 50,000 waterfowl each year,” said Robert Sanders, DU manager of conservation programs for Montana. “For example, the region’s large number of small wetlands has been known to support one of the highest densities of nesting redheads in the U.S.”

Most of the land in the Flathead Valley is federally owned, with miles of grassland dotted with hundreds of small wetlands. The Intermountain West Joint Venture Coordinated Bird Conservation Plan and numerous federal and state level bird conservation plans list this valley as a priority landscape for waterfowl and other birds.

“It’s imperative water quality in this key area be maintained,” Sanders said, “and DU supports the North Fork legislation as a way to ensure water quality is maintained for these important habitats.”

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

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Ducks Unlimited Lauds Montana Legislation To Protect North Fork Habitat

White-Nose Syndrome In Bats

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Annapolis, Md. --(AmmoLand.com)- Several dead bats and over two hundred visibly affected bats were found during a survey conducted in an Allegany County cave near Cumberland on March 5.

The bats observed during the survey exhibited a white fungus concentrated around the muzzle of the infected bats. The findings are consistent with White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) and if confirmed, this will be Maryland’s first documented occurrence of the disease.

“Many biologists suspect that the WNS fungus, Geomyces destructans, is a non-native pathogen recently introduced to the United States,” said Dana Limpert, DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service ecologist and bat expert. “Fortunately WNS is not known to be harmful to humans. Unfortunately there is no known cure for bats infected with the disease, so our priority is preventing the spread of this deadly syndrome to other bat caves or hibernacula.”

WNS, likely spread by contact among bats and their environment, is a disease suspected of killing more than a million bats in the northeastern United States. Bat carcasses and fungal samples were sent to the National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, Wis. for verification. Positive laboratory confirmation of the fungus is expected to take several weeks.

The disease has been documented in caves and mines where large numbers of bats hibernate. The disease has not been found in bats that use buildings or other man-made structures. Based on its distribution in the northeastern states, WNS in Maryland is only expected to occur in the mountainous parts of the State where caves occur. It is not expected to be found in metropolitan environments.

“It is unclear how this cave became infected but there is evidence from other locations in the Northeast that cavers may be a source for spreading the WNS fungus,” said Dan Feller, the DNR ecologist who discovered the dead bats. “Cavers are generally responsible outdoor enthusiasts, but contaminated clothing and gear may inadvertently transmit spores into new areas, potentially impacting vital bat populations. We will begin immediately to elicit support from the local caving community to help us limit the spread of this disease.”

WNS was first discovered in a cave near Albany, N.Y. in February 2006. It has been confirmed or suspected in 10 states in the eastern U.S. from New Hampshire to Tennessee. Since 2006, biologists across the Northeast have reported as much as a 100% decline in hibernating bats in affected caves.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requests that cavers refrain from caving in all WNS affected states and adjoining states. And cavers should refrain from caving anywhere during the hibernation period (September – May) to minimize disturbance and mortality to bats.

DNR biologists, following strict protocols established by the Northeastern WNS Working Group, will continue their monitoring efforts to determine if any other hibernation sites are affected in the state. Additional information on white-nose syndrome can be found at: http://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/bats/nhpbatdisease.aspl.

About:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2010, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 467,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland’s effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.DNR.Maryland.gov.

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White-Nose Bat Disease Found In Western Maryland Cave

Sage Grouse

Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

Washington, DC --(AmmoLand.com)- In a decision long anticipated by sportsmen and conservationists, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced on Friday that the greater sage grouse will be designated a candidate species for listing under the Endangered Species Act.

The “warranted, but precluded” assessment for the popular upland gamebird, which occupies barely half of its traditional habitat, was startling but not unexpected news for the North American Grouse Partnership, an organization dedicated to the conservation of native grouse and their habitats, and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.

Willard Heck, NAGP chairman of the board, said, “Our organization was formed in 1999 because of long-term downward trends in sage grouse populations. For decades, sportsmen, ranchers, developers and the scientific community saw this day approaching, yet we didn’t work together well enough to avoid it. This population assessment is both a failure and a clear opportunity to rededicate ourselves to healthy Western landscapes.”

Sage grouse populations historically encompassed enormous expanses of the Rocky Mountain West, but in recent years the species’ abundance and distribution have declined precipitously.

Energy projects – both traditional and renewable – and attendant development can have wide-ranging impacts on habitat use and survival of numerous game species, including sage grouse. Current scientific research on sage grouse has identified population declines with energy development activities. In particular, activity too close to sage grouse leks, or breeding sites, can result in permanent displacement. Curtailed energy development in areas of core habitat, such as the Ryegrass Rim region of western Wyoming, can help address these declines.

In its status review finding for the sage grouse, the USFWS formally concluded that, with few exceptions, existing stipulations governing energy development are ineffective and that current science dictates the need for increased safeguards. The sportsmen stressed that this assessment underscores the necessity for on-the-ground changes in the management of energy projects underway in areas of critical habitat and for better planning of renewable energy projects.

“Sportsmen-conservationists have demonstrated a longstanding investment in maintaining productive populations of sage grouse and in working with the federal government to avoid an endangered listing for this species,” said TRCP Energy Policy Manager Steve Belinda.

“Yet the government’s decision regarding the bird’s fate essentially admits that inadequate regulatory mechanisms are in place to sustain existing numbers – and that the Bureau of Land Management and other agencies have a poor track record of following through on promises for other candidate species. Major changes are needed in current approaches to land and resource management to balance the needs of grouse in order to reduce the threats to sage grouse habitat and populations.”

“We can’t keep on applying inadequate approaches to sage grouse management and expecting good results,” continued Belinda, a former BLM biologist. “The government’s findings are relevant only to the extent that they are used to produce concrete changes in the places that matter most to sage grouse; consequently, energy developments such as the Atlantic Rim and Pinedale Anticline projects should be revisited via the adaptive management process. This decision means nothing if the approaches presently in use, such as insufficient buffer zones around sage grouse leks, are not revised to conform to current, peer-reviewed science.”

In 2008, the TRCP and NAGP formally requested that the Department of the Interior undertake a transparent, public process to address landscape conservation measures for sage grouse habitats on lands administered by the BLM, particularly during energy development activities occurring on these lands. The groups’ “petition for rulemaking” requested that the secretary of the Interior commit the BLM to utilize the best available information on the impacts of energy development on sage grouse and alter agency management of activities currently being developed or planned for development in key sage grouse habitats.

NAGP Executive Director Ralph Rogers said, “Lewis and Clark first described the sage grouse in central Montana. From that point to the west and south, sage grouse would have been a dominant species on the landscape. At the turn of the last century, pioneers traveled from Colorado to Washington on a sea of grassland and shrub steppe with sage grouse flushing everywhere they went. Today they are a keystone species; in shrub steppe where they exist, the landscape is healthy. Where they have disappeared, the land is not functioning properly.”

“Where the landscape is intact and free from exotic plants and diseases, sage grouse exist in traditional numbers,” said Dr. Rollin Sparrowe, a former federal biologist who serves on both the NAGP and TRCP boards. “More than half the remaining sage grouse are on public lands where our federal management agencies can help arrest downward population trends. The USFWS has promised increased resources for private lands, increased coordination with state management agencies, and making sage grouse a higher priority on federal lands. These are all steps in the right direction, but much work remains to be done, particularly concerning the impacts of increased renewable energy development, about which relatively little research has been conducted.”

On March 12, the Natural Resources Conservation Service will deliver details on initiatives to benefit sage grouse on private lands. Randy Gray, NAGP board member from the NRCS (retired) said, “The overall management plans to help this species are in place, and soon additional resources will be available for significant conservation work on private lands. Landowners should contact the NRCS and arrange for technical and cost-share assistance to further the conservation of this charismatic species. Only through the collaborative efforts of government and private landowners can we return sage grouse to previous and sustainable population levels.”

“We know more about what sage grouse need to survive than we ever have before,” concluded Rogers. “This announcement does not herald the end of mineral exploration, grazing or hunting. It also doesn’t mean that we can continue with ‘business as usual.’ That isn’t working. It simply means that we must consider the well-defined needs of sage grouse and other uniquely American species as we go about our business. The continued downward trend of America’s old friend, the sage grouse, is unacceptable. Vast areas of altered landscapes devoid of America’s natural heritage are not a legacy we want to leave our children and grandchildren.”

North American Grouse Partnership

The TRCP believes that to better balance the concerns of fish and wildlife in the face of accelerating energy development, federal land management agencies must follow the conservation tenets outlined in the FACTS for Fish and Wildlife.

The North American Grouse Partnership is a 501-C-3 sportsman/conservation organization dedicated to the conservation of North American grouse, their habitats, and kindred species.

Inspired by the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, the TRCP is a coalition of organizations and grassroots partners working together to preserve the traditions of hunting and fishing.

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Sportsmen Call Sage Grouse ESA Decision an ‘Opportunity’ for Science-based Conservation

Ducks Unlimited

CHARLESTON, SC –-(AmmoLand.com)- Ducks Unlimited recently achieved another milestone by conserving its 250,000th acre in the South Atlantic Flyway.

Public and private lands projects in North and South Carolina, Georgia and Florida are providing crucial habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl in the region.
Ducks Unlimited is conserving habitats like this across the South Atlantic.

DU has completed 185 wetland restoration and enhancement projects across the four states totaling over 151,000 acres, with the majority of these projects occurring on public lands. DU has also protected an additional 128,000 acres of private lands through our conservation easement program. Through both public lands restoration projects and private lands protection, DU is leading the way for wetlands conservation in the South Atlantic.

“Our on-the-ground conservation delivery programs have protected, restored and/or enhanced over 250,000 acres to date in the South Atlantic for waterfowl and other wetland dependant species,” said Craig LeSchack, Ducks Unlimited director of conservation programs for the South Atlantic Flyway.

“Our state, federal, and private partnerships contributed tremendously to our successes in the region, and we look forward to continuing these valued partnerships well into the future. At a total cost of over $66 million for all projects, we were able to match every DU dollar with over $7 in partner contributions.”

DU has also protected an additional 128,000 acres of private lands through 154 conservation easements in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia that have been donated to Wetlands America Trust. WAT’s principal role is the fiduciary responsibility for DU’s endowment and land holdings, including conservation easements. A mix of both public and private lands conservation is necessary to maintain healthy waterfowl populations.

“The Lowcountry Initiative is DU’s foundation for land protection in the South Atlantic,” said Chris Vaughn, Ducks Unlimited land protection coordinator. “Pressures from development present a particular concern for our region. Perpetual protection of habitats through conservation easements benefits not only waterfowl, but also provides clean water and open spaces for other wildlife and people, while protecting and enhancing our traditional way of life.”

Gifts from DU Major Sponsors that reside in the South Atlantic states have also played an enormous role in conserving habitat for ducks outside of our region, sending several million dollars to the breeding grounds that produce the majority of the Southeast’s wintering waterfowl.

“We are blessed with a passionate philanthropic family in the South Atlantic,” said Brett Baker, Ducks Unlimited director of development. “DU has conserved important waterfowl habitat on the breeding grounds as a direct result of major gifts from South Atlantic donors. Major Sponsor support of key initiatives on the breeding grounds, such as our Living Lakes and Grasslands for Tomorrow Initiatives, is fundamental to our success in saving the best areas for breeding ducks on the prairies. These individuals are stepping-up in a major way to make lasting contributions for the resource, and we can’t thank them enough.”

The South Atlantic is also home to thousands of dedicated DU members and volunteers. In fact, 16 of the President’s Top 100 DU chapters, based on Grassroots income, hail from the four- state region. “Thanks to the continued passion and efforts of our dedicated DU volunteers who coordinate our local events, we have enjoyed unprecedented growth and success throughout the region, while positively impacting important wetland habitats for the ducks at home and abroad,” noted Don Manley, Ducks Unlimited director of fund raising & volunteer relations.

About:
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

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DU Conserves a Quarter Million Acres and Counting in South Atlantic

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

RENO, Nev. --(AmmoLand.com)- Ten years after his death at the Daytona 500, Dale Earnhardt’s enduring legacy as a competitor and outdoorsman has sparked a new partnership between the Dale Earnhardt Foundation and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The new venture has been christened the Dale Earnhardt Land/Wildlife Legacy.

Announcing the news March 4 at the RMEF annual convention in Reno, Nev., RMEF President and CEO David Allen said the partnership is good for wildlife and hunters.

“There are lots of NASCAR fans in the RMEF membership, and lots of conservationists among race fans. Teaming up allows us to redouble our efforts on projects that honor Dale’s memory—things like wildlife habitat improvement, land conservation, hunting access improvements and more,” said Allen.

Allen added the partnership will help RMEF gain visibility at NASCAR races and events.

Earnhardt’s son, Kerry, was in Reno for the announcement and to represent the Earnhardt family and others involved in the Dale Earnhardt Foundation. The nonprofit group based in North Carolina funds charitable programs and causes that sustain Dale Earnhardt’s lifelong commitment to children, education and wildlife conservation.

Teresa Earnhardt, Dale’s wife, said, “As a lifelong outdoorsman, Dale was committed to wildlife and land conservation, a passion which he shared with his friends and family. Now that legacy lives on through his foundation and we are honored to have a partner in RMEF. Our shared mission to conserve and restore native game and their habitat will ensure the same opportunities for future generations and ‘Continue the Legend.’”

Allen was a personal friend of Earnhardt. In fact, he directed marketing and sponsorships for the Dale Earnhardt/Richard Childress race teams and other NASCAR teams until Earnhardt’s fatal crash in 2001. He remains close to the family.

“When Dale wasn’t thinking about racing, he was thinking about hunting and sharing his passion for the outdoors with others,” said Allen. “It was an honor to know him and now it’s an honor to be working closely again with Teresa to help keep that legacy growing. Dale is the working man’s hero and RMEF is the working man’s conservation group, so this is a great fit. Dale would be very proud today.”

Childress said, “Dale was ‘The Intimidator’ for his fearlessness and competitiveness on the track, but the peacefulness of the outdoors also was a big part of who he was. I believe his quiet-time hunting and fishing helped recharge him for racing, and I know he’s smiling down now at being able to help other people enjoy the outdoors like he did.”

Realtree founder and president Bill Jordan, who also was a friend of Earnhardt, said, “I was fortunate to hunt with Dale and to know him both as an outdoorsman as well as a legendary driver. I’m so pleased to see RMEF teaming up to help honor his memory through conservation, because that’s so meaningful to both race fans and hunters.”

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.7 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

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RMEF Launches Dale Earnhardt Land/Wildlife Legacy

Sage Grouse

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

WASHINGTON, D.C. --(AmmoLand.com)- The Department of the Interior will expand efforts with state, local and tribal partners to map lands that are vital to the survival of the greater sage-grouse, a ground-dwelling bird that inhabits much of the West, while guiding and managing new conventional and renewable energy projects to reduce impacts on the species, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today.

Salazar made the announcement in conjunction with a finding by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that, based on accumulated scientific data and new peer-reviewed information and analysis, the greater sage-grouse warrants the protection of the Endangered Species Act but that listing the species at this time is precluded by the need to address higher priority species first. The greater sage-grouse will be placed on the candidate list for future action, meaning the species would not receive statutory protection under the ESA and states would continue to be responsible for managing the bird.

“The sage grouse’s decline reflects the extent to which open land in the West has been developed in the last century,” said Salazar. “This development has provided important benefits, but we must find common-sense ways of protecting, restoring, and reconnecting the Western lands that are most important to the species’ survival while responsibly developing much-needed energy resources. Voluntary conservation agreements, federal financial and technical assistance and other partnership incentives can play a key role in this effort.”

Adding the species to the candidate list will allow the Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies an opportunity to continue to work cooperatively with private landowners to conserve the candidate species. This includes financial and technical assistance, and the ability to develop conservation agreements that provide regulatory assurances to landowners who take actions to benefit the species. One such agreement was signed last month in western Idaho, encompassing an area of over half a million acres.

“There is much we can accomplish for sage-grouse working with private landowners who care about the future of this iconic western species,” said Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Tom Strickland. “Voluntary conservation efforts on private lands, when combined with successful state and federal strategies, hold the key to the long-term survival of the greater sage-grouse.”

Bureau of Land Management Director Bob Abbey, whose agency manages more greater sage-grouse habitat than any other government agency, said that the BLM will today issue guidance that will expand the use of new science and mapping technologies to improve land-use planning and develop additional measures to conserve sage-grouse habitat while ensuring that energy production, recreational access and other uses of federal lands continue as appropriate. The BLM guidance also addresses a related species, the Gunnison sage-grouse, which has a more limited range, and which is in the process of being evaluated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine whether it also warrants protection under the Endangered Species Act.

“Managing for sensitive and candidate species is nothing new to the BLM,” said BLM Director Bob Abbey. “Using sound science and effective on-the-ground coordination with our many partners, we will build on current accomplishments in managing for sustainable sage-grouse populations on our National System of Public Lands.”

The guidance, which supplements the BLM’s 2004 National Sage-Grouse Conservation Strategy, identifies management actions necessary at some sites to ensure the environmentally responsible exploration, authorization, leasing and development of energy resources in the priority habitat of greater sage-grouse.

Under the guidance, the BLM will continue to coordinate with State fish and wildlife agencies and their Sage and Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse Technical Committee in the development of a range-wide key habitat map. This mapping project, which is not intended to replace individual State fish and wildlife agency core habitat maps, will identify priority habitat for sage-grouse within each of the western states and reflect this across the known range of sage-grouse.

Greater sage-grouse are found in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, eastern California, Nevada, Utah, western Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming and the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. They currently occupy approximately 56 percent of their historical range.

If trends since the mid-1960s persist, many local populations may disappear within the next 30 to 100 years, with remaining fragmented populations more vulnerable to extinction in the long-term. However, the sage-grouse population as a whole remains large enough and is distributed across such a large portion of the western United States that Fish and Wildlife Service biologists determined the needs of other species facing more immediate and severe threat of extinction must take priority for listing actions.

The Service will review the status of the species annually, as it does with all candidate species, and will propose the species for protection when funding and workload priorities for other listing actions allow. Should the status of the greater sage-grouse sufficiently improve as a result of the efforts to be undertaken, the Service could determine that the protection of the Endangered Species Act is not needed.

For more information about the Service’s finding on the greater
sage-grouse, visit
.

For more information about the BLM’s efforts to conserve sage-grouse
habitat, visit

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Sage Grouse Habitat Conservation Included in Department of the Interior Efforts

(Pictured L to R): Dean Schueler, outgoing president of the National Wild Turkey Federation's South Dakota State Chapter; James Earl Kennamer, Ph.D., NWTF chief conservation officer; and Jeff Vonk, secretary of South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, signed a cooperative agreement to benefit wildlife and conservation in South Dakota. Photo: Michael G. Brown Photography

National Wild Turkey Federation

EDGEFIELD, S.C. – -(AmmoLand.com)- South Dakota’s wildlife and sportsmen will benefit from a new cooperative agreement between the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP).

The three-year agreement helps support the NWTF’s on-the-ground work to promote partnerships and complete projects that will benefit wild turkeys, other wildlife and important habitats in South Dakota.

James Earl Kennamer, Ph.D., NWTF’s chief conservation officer, signed the agreement during South Dakota’s NWTF state convention along with Jeff Vonk, secretary of SDGFP, and Dean Schueler, outgoing president of the NWTF’s South Dakota State Chapter.

“This agreement is an extension of an already beneficial relationship with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks,” Kennamer said. “With a regional biologist who knows the needs of South Dakota’s wildlife and sportsmen, we can plan mutually beneficial projects that will benefit wild turkeys and all manners of other wildlife including pheasants and sensitive species such as bald eagles.”

Cooperative projects may include, but are not limited to, restoring riparian areas — or areas near rivers and streams — in South Dakota through the NWTF’s Northern Plains Riparian Restoration Initiative , planting mast-producing shrubs, helping provide standing grain, assisting ranchers who winter large numbers of turkeys on their property through the NWTF’s Operation Big Sky program, and promoting access to private land for increased hunting opportunities.

The NWTF is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage. Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

For more information about the NWTF, call (800) THE-NWTF or visit www.nwtf.org.

About the NWTF:
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more than 350,000 members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

The NWTF was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. According to many state and federal agencies, the comeback of the wild turkey is arguably the greatest conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF for details.

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Renewed Partnership Will Benefit South Dakota Wildlife

2009-2010 Federal Duck Stamp

United States Postal Service

America’s wetlands were drying up or being drained and waterfowl population numbers plummeted below 27 million nationwide, a record low. Alarmed waterfowl hunters and other conservationists knew there was no time to waste.

Pulitzer-prize winning editorial cartoonist, hunter, passionate wildlife conservationist, and visionary, Darling unhesitatingly put his considerable influence and stature to good use, taking on the important challenge of convincing Congress to pass legislation designed to help protect waterfowl habitat. In 1934, thanks to his unstinting efforts and strong support from waterfowl hunters, Congress passed the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act and, on March 16, 1934, President Roosevelt signed it into law.

As Biological Survey Chief, Darling created one of America’s most successful conservation programs, the Federal Duck Stamp Program. Ever the artist, he illustrated his vision for the new Duck Stamp, drawing a pair of mallards landing in a wetland. This picture graced the very first Federal Duck Stamp.

On August 14, 1934, Darling bought the first stamp from the U.S. Postmaster General, paying $1.00. First year sales raised $635,000 for wetland conservation; since then thanks to collectors, hunters and conservationists, Duck Stamp sales have raised $700 million which has been used to buy 5 million acres of wetlands for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Besides conserving wetlands, Darling’s Duck Stamp Program has given this country another gift—one of the world’s foremost waterfowl art competitions. Until 1949, waterfowl artists were invited to submit entries. A committee of waterfowl experts privately judged the entries and selected the winning design. In 1949, for the first time, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service held a public contest, opening up the competition. In October 2007, the Federal Duck Stamp Contest was held in Darling’s beloved Sanibel, Florida, and a distinguished jury panel selected the design for the 75th Federal Duck Stamp, a pair of pintail ducks by Minnesota artist Joseph Hautman.

Jr. Duck Wood Duck 2009-2010

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Duck Stamps a Great Investment in Public Wetlands

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

PRATT, KS --(AmmoLand.com)- On March 2, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) announced that 10 white-tailed deer from northwestern Kansas had tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD).

These were animals taken by hunters in the 2009 hunting seasons. The agency is still awaiting the result from another deer sample that was presumed to be positive after preliminary testing at the K-State Diagnostic Veterinary Lab in Manhattan.

That “presumptive positive” has been sent to the National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames, Iowa, for confirmation.

The one presumptive positive deer was taken by a hunter in Decatur County, and another four deer from that county have been confirmed positive. The other confirmed positives include two from Rawlins County and one each from Sheridan, Graham, Logan, and Thomas counties. One deer each from Sheridan and Thomas counties were exhibiting clinical symptoms of CWD.

In total, 2,702 animals were tested for CWD, including 16 elk, 278 mule deer, and 2,408 white-tailed deer. Although the agency has completed testing of its target sample for this hunting season, biologists are still collecting heads from road-killed deer in northwest Kansas. In addition, the agency is collecting road-killed deer in Harper County, near an area where a captive elk herd had to be destroyed in 2001 because of CWD.

Annual testing is part of ongoing effort by KDWP to monitor the prevalence and spread of CWD. The fatal disease was first detected in a wild deer taken in Cheyenne County in 2005. Three infected deer were taken in Decatur County in 2007 and 10 tested positive in 2008, all in northwest Kansas.

CWD is a member of the group of diseases called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Other diseases in this group include scrapie in sheep and goats, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE or Mad Cow Disease) in cattle, and Cruetzfeldt-Jacob disease in people. CWD is a progressive, fatal disease that results in small holes developing in the brain, giving it a sponge-like appearance under the microscope. An animal may carry the disease without outward indication but in the later stages, signs may include behavioral changes such as decreased interactions with other animals, listlessness, lowering of the head, weight loss, repetitive walking in set patterns, and a lack of response to humans. Anyone who discovers a sick or suspect deer should contact the nearest KDWP office.

There is no vaccine or other biological method that prevents the spread of CWD. However, there is no evidence that CWD poses a risk to humans or livestock. Still, precautions should be taken. Hunters are advised not to eat meat from animals known to be infected, and common sense precautions are advised when field dressing and processing meat from animals taken in areas where CWD is found. More information on CWD can be found on KDWP’s website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us or at the Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance website, www.cwd-info.org

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Ten Kansas Deer Confirmed Positive In CWD Tests

Wyoming Sage Grouse

Wyoming Game & Fish Department

Cody, WY --(AmmoLand.com)- The Big Horn Basin Local Sage-grouse Working Group will meet March 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wyoming Game & Fish Department’s regional office in Cody.

Local working group members will review the goals and objectives outlined in the 2005 Big Horn Basin Sage Grouse Conservation Plan.

“We will evaluate the progress that has been made toward accomplishing those goals and objectives and use a review process to set priorities for up-coming projects,” said working group chairperson, Kathleen Jachowski.

Those wishing to attend the meeting are advised that a public comment period will be made available; however, the public will not be able to actively participate in the discussion.

For more information, contact Kathleen Jachowski at 307-587-3723.

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Local Sage Grouse Working Group To Meet

Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation

WASHINGTON, DC --(AmmoLand.com)- The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation welcomed the sportsman-legislator champions of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus back to Washington last night at a reception honoring their commitment to hunting and fishing access in the 111th Congress.

The re-scheduled “Welcome” reception was originally scheduled for February 10 but had to be postponed until Tuesday because of the record snowfall in Washington, DC.

Over twenty members of the United States Congress joined together for this yearly gathering of hunting, fishing, and conservation leaders, policy makers, and industry representatives to celebrate the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus’ successes on behalf of sportsmen in the previous session of Congress and to focus on current legislative issues affecting hunters and anglers.

“For 20 years now, the combination of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and CSF have been at the forefront of pro-sportsmen’s legislation,” said CSF President Crane. “While the party in power may change, the true bipartisan nature of this Caucus insures that we never take our eye off of the sportsmen’s agenda.”

Past Caucus Co-Chair, Congressman Don Young, jokingly added, “hunting and fishing aren’t partisan pursuits—I’ve never met a partisan bullet.”

“It is really wonderful to gather with all these sportsmen leaders to discuss the ongoing issues that face our way of life,” said Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Dan Boren. “As an avid outdoorsman and a member of the Caucus, I recognize the importance of ensuring that the public has the fullest opportunity to enjoy and participate in sporting activities.”

Special guests included Tom Strickland, Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Chief of Staff to Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, and NASCAR racing legend and CSF Board Member Richard Childress, as well as many other leaders of the hunting, fishing and conservation community.

“We are extremely proud to work closely with members of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, Jeff and his staff at CSF, and with sportsmen and women at large on issues that are important to us all,” said Assistant Secretary Strickland.

The 2010 Welcome Reception was hosted by Laser Shot and sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation, American Trucking Association, Capitol Hill Consulting Group, ETA, National Beer Wholesalers Association, Natural Resource Results, NRA, Oracle, PAC/WEST, and Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, and featured the Laser Shot hunting simulator.

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Sportsmen’s Caucus Members Return To Washington Determined To Improve Hunting, Fishing and Conservation Opportunities

Deltawaterfowl.org

Bismarck, N.D.--(AmmoLand.com)- The announcement that the U.S. Department of Agriculture will offer a general Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) signup later in 2010 is good news for ducks and duck hunters, according to Delta Waterfowl Senior Vice President John Devney.

“CRP is a proven, time-tested voluntary program that provides numerous benefits to our land and waters, including grass nesting cover that each year produces hundreds of thousands of ducks for duck hunters across the U.S.,” said Devney.

“This is welcome news because we haven’t had a signup since 2006.”

Established in 1985, CRP pays farmers and ranchers to idle environmentally sensitive lands and plant them to grass and other cover types. The voluntary program currently has 31.1 million acres enrolled nationwide, down nearly 7 million acres in the last three years. In addition, the 2008 Farm Bill reduced the national CRP allotment from 39.2 million to 32 million acres, and the Obama administration has floated the idea of reducing the existing cap to 24 million.

“We need to keep CRP acreage at that 32-million cap, especially considering the millions of acres that were lost in the last farm bill,” said Devney said, noting that contracts on 4.4 million CRP acres nationwide expire on September 30th.

Despite the announcement of a new general signup, Devney says the Prairie Pothole Region (PPR), often called the nation’s duck factory, is slated to lose millions of CRP acres in the next several years because of expiring contracts.

For example, North Dakota currently has 2.7 million CRP acres, down from its historic high of 3.4 million in 2007. Devney says significant acreage losses could happen, and fast.

“Starting in 2010 and by the end of 2012, contracts on an additional 1.5 million acres are slated to expire in North Dakota,” he said. “That’s a lot of lost nesting cover for ducks and other ground-nesting birds. And that’s why the Prairie Pothole Region should be a national priority area for signup in 2010.”

According to research conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, CRP in the Prairie Pothole Region produces as many as 2 million incremental ducks each year to the fall flight. From 1992 to 1997, some duck species, according to the research, increased 46 percent, adding roughly 12 million birds to the migration.

In addition, Devney said he’s pleased with the USDA’s decision to increase acre allotments by 300,000 for three practices under continuous CRP to help bolster habitat for ducks, pheasants and quail. The allotment for Conservation Practice 37, also called the Duck Nesting Habitat Initiative, will increase by 50,000 acres for Prairie Pothole Region states, the majority of which going to the Dakotas.

“That’s welcome news, too,” he said.

About:
Delta Waterfowl provides knowledge, leaders and science-based solutions that efficiently conserve waterfowl and secure the future for waterfowl hunting. Visit: www.deltawaterfowl.org

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New General CRP Signup Good for Ducks, Duck hunters

Whitetails Unlimited

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- Whitetails Unlimited welcomes a new sponsor, as Predator, Inc. joins WTU as a partner in conservation.

Predator offers a diverse line of clothing and equipment with innovative patterns to help hunters and other outdoors enthusiasts when in the woods.

Almost 10 years ago Wayne and Frank Hood set out to produce products that bowhunters could use that would be unparalleled in the ability to make the hunter disappear.

They have succeeded in that mission, and then some. Predator now produces a line of quality products that are reasonably priced, but will last through many years of rigorous hunting and outdoor activities. WTU Field Director Tim Schlater became familiar with the Predator company, and through his efforts this partnership became reality.

The Predator line of clothing and accessories features some of the finest fabrics available, from soft, durable, fade resistant 100% cottons to the high tech fabric Bucksuede™, Scent-Lok® and Predator’s exclusive Warp Knit® fabric.

Predator Camo

These fabrics combine to give the user a functional, long lasting product. Predator’s line of insulated products feature either 3M’s Thinsulate™ insulation or their new Thinsulate Ultra insulation, along with Dupont’s Comfortmax IB wind barrier to give a hunter the greatest protection against the cold. Predator offers both a dealer locator and an on-line store at their website, www.predatorcamo.com.

“We will be featuring items from the Predator line at select WTU events this spring,” said Dave Hawkey, WTU’s vice president of field operations. “We’re looking forward to featuring the Predator pants and shirts because of the obvious quality and innovation that Predator puts into all their products. We’ve worked out a process so that the lucky winner of the Predator gear will receive the correct size, no matter what their individual requirements.”

“Predator joins a long list of great companies that help us advance the mission of Whitetails Unlimited,” said Kevin Devault, WTU’s manager of conservation funding. “They are located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, which is one of the best deer areas in North America, and these guys understand deer hunting. We’re happy to have them aboard, and look forward to a long relationship.”

Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities, or more information about WTU programs can visit the WTU website, www.whitetailsunlimited.com, or contact Kevin Devault, WTU manager of conservation funding at (920) 743-6777, ext. 102, or e-mail Kevin at kdevault@whitetailsunlimited.com.

About:
Founded in 1982, Whitetails Unlimited is a national nonprofit conservation organization. Our mission is to raise funds in support of education, habitat enhancement and acquisition, and the preservation of the hunting tradition for the benefit of the white-tailed deer and other wildlife. When it comes to the whitetail and its environment, WTU’s degree of professionalism and dedication has earned us the reputation of being the nation’s premier whitetail organization.

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Predator Camo Joins Whitetails Unlimited as a Partner in Conservation

Watching from the banks of the Flint River, visitors can observe as professionals set fire on Pine Mountain ridge...

GoHuntGeorgia.com

THOMASTON, GA --(AmmoLand.com)- Participants of all ages are invited Saturday, March 13, to “Fire on the Mountain!” a celebration of an ongoing effort to conserve areas of rare montane longleaf pine habitat through the use of prescribed fire at Sprewell Bluff State Park near Thomaston.

Watching safely from the banks of the Flint River, visitors can observe the fascinating practice of prescribed burning as professionals carefully set fire on Pine Mountain ridge.

“Fire is essential to maintaining many species of wildlife and their habitats found here at Sprewell Bluff,” said Nathan Klaus, a senior wildlife biologist with the Wildlife Resources Division. “Natural resource professionals feel that it is important to share this knowledge about fire with local citizens, and what better way to do that than with a safe, first hand experience.”

Beginning at noon, festival goers will enjoy the sounds of bluegrass music, the tastes of festival foods sponsored by the Future Farmers of America and crafts and games all surrounded by the natural beauty that makes Sprewell Bluff such a special place.

Throughout the afternoon, natural resource agency staff will provide demonstrations on how and why prescribed fires are conducted, presentations on Georgia’s unique and diminishing longleaf pine forests, and live animal programs showcasing some of the wonderful wildlife that call the Piedmont eco-region home.

“With acceptable wind speed and direction, temperature, and humidity as ‘prescribed’ in our burn plan, we will begin the prescribed fire demonstration on the mountainside, giving spectators a close up look at Mother Nature’s fireworks set in the natural amphitheater of the Flint River Valley,” Klaus said.

Historically, frequent natural fires swept across the unfragmented landscape, helping shape the diversity of plants and animals found there. And fire is still an important tool for maintaining healthy longleaf pine ecosystems throughout the southeastern United States.

Prescribed fire helps prevent the encroachment of competing hardwoods and restores a grassy understory lush with ferns, wildflowers and other herbaceous plants. It also helps establish important habitat for many wildlife species such as the bobwhite quail, wild turkey, Bachman’s sparrow and endangered red cockaded woodpecker.

Wildlife Resources biologists and other burn teams use prescribed fire on thousands of acres each year throughout Georgia to manage wildlife habitats and reduce the risk of damage from wildfires.

Sprewell Bluff State Park and State Natural Area boast more than 3,000 acres along the Flint River. The park and natural area are popular among outdoor enthusiasts for their wildflowers, wildlife, and scenic, rocky bluffs overlooking the river.

The event organized by the Wildlife Resources and State Parks & Historic Sites divisions of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Georgia Forestry Commission, The Flint River-Keepers, The Nature Conservancy of Georgia, Callaway Gardens, Georgia Power and The Environmental Resources Network (T.E.R.N.).

For more information on Fire on the Mountain at Sprewell Bluff State Park in Thomaston, visit www.georgiawildlife.com. Please visit the Web site before March 13 for updates on possible event cancellation due to inclement weather.

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Fire On The Mountain! Event at Sprewell Bluff State Park, GA

Pheasants Forever

Des Moines, Iowa - -(AmmoLand.com)- Today at Pheasants Forever’s National Pheasant Fest, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced plans for a new Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) general signup.

Secretary Vilsack also announced increased acreage allotments for three CRP practices significant to wildlife, and then signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Pheasants Forever.

The new general CRP signup slated for later this year will be the first general signup since 2006. It arrives in time to address the 4.4 million acres of CRP expiring on September 30, 2010. An additional 14.2 million acres of CRP are slated to expire between 2011 and 2013.

“Last week at a Pheasants Forever event is southern Minnesota, Secretary Vilsack indicated his intent to keep CRP at, or nearly fully enrolled at, the program’s authorized level of 32 million acres. Today the Secretary outlined just how he intends to accomplish that by utilizing both a general signup and increased allocations for continuous CRP practices targeted at benefitting pheasants, quail, and waterfowl,” reported Dave Nomsen, Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever’s Vice President of Government Affairs. “Considering the severity of this winter and sizeable number of acres set to expire from CRP this year, the Secretary’s announcement is very welcome news for wildlife and hunters. USDA’s actions today will benefit birds tomorrow with newly allocated CP-33’s, 37’s, and 38’s (SAFE) being available on March 15, 2010.”

During his keynote address in front of 800 attendees, Secretary Vilsack outlined the new acreage caps for three critical CRP practices at or approaching current limits.

• Conservation Practice 33: Known as the “Upland Bird Habitat Buffers” or “Bobwhite Buffers” practice, more than 219,000 of the 250,000 acres allocated in the program have been enrolled nationwide. The newly announced 100,000 acres will be distributed among Midwest and Southern states
• Conservation Practice 37: This “Duck Nesting Habitat Initiative” practice has 87,000 acres currently enrolled in the Prairie Pothole Region states of Montana, North and South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. Today’s newly announced 50,000 acres includes 25,000 acres for North Dakota, and an additional 15,000 acres for South Dakota.
• Conservation Practice 38: Also known as the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement program (SAFE), this conservation practice focuses on environmentally sensitive land, as well as species that have suffered significant population declines and/or are considered to be socially or economically valuable. This is the newest CRP practice, but states like Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota were already maxed out or were quickly approaching their acreage caps. An additional 150,000 SAFE acres have been allocated benefitting a wide array of species. States and target species include North Dakota pheasants, South Dakota grassland birds, Idaho Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, Minnesota pheasants, Mississippi bobwhite quail, Nebraska upland habitats, Iowa pheasants and upland birds, Illinois pheasants and upland habitat, and Georgia bobwhite quail. Currently, more than 253,000 acres are enrolled in 34 states.

“When President Obama took office, we asked his Administration for a new general CRP signup, new SAFE acres, and new CP 33 acres for quail,” explained Nomsen. “Today, Secretary Vilsack and President Obama delivered us these critical tools needed to put habitat back on the ground, birds in the air, and hunters in the field.”

Secretary Vilsack also signed a first ever MOU between the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, and Pheasants Forever. The MOU establishes the framework for the three groups to work together in partnership toward common goals; specifically the implementation of Farm Bill conservation programs. The MOU facilitates the free flow of information among the groups and provides a foundation for Pheasants Forever to deliver conservation technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and landowners.

The MOU will allow Pheasants Forever to facilitate expansion of its current Farm Bill Biologist program, which has proven an effective method for assisting landowners in implementing conservation practices on their property. Pheasants Forever, along with other state wildlife partners, currently employ 50 Farm Bill and Partner Biologists in eight states. To date, Pheasants Forever Farm Bill Biologists have contacted and consulted 30,000 landowners, resulting in the improvement of 1.3 million acres of land for wildlife.

National Pheasant Fest 2010 wraps up on Sunday, February 28th with show hours of 10AM to 5PM. Tickets are available at the Iowa Events Center.

For additional information about Pheasants Forever, visit www.PheasantsForever.org

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USDA Secretary Delivers Welcome CRP News to Pheasants, Quail, and Hunters

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(AmmoLand.com)- In letters to legislators and newspapers across the West, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is calling out groups like Defenders of Wildlife, Western Wildlife Conservancy and others for their disingenuous use of data on wolves and elk.

The RMEF action was prompted by each group’s recent op-ed articles in the media, as well as testimony before Utah lawmakers by Western Wildlife Conservancy Executive Director Kirk Robinson. All cited RMEF statistics to argue that restored wolf populations have somehow translated to growing elk herds in the northern Rockies.

“The theory that wolves haven’t had a significant adverse impact on some elk populations is not accurate. We’ve become all too familiar with these groups’ tactic of cherry-picking select pieces of information to support their own agenda, even when it is misleading,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “We will not allow that claim to go unchallenged.”

RMEF population data, which come from state wildlife agencies, show that elk populations are expanding the most in areas of the northern Rockies where wolves are not present. However, where elk share habitat with wolves, such as the greater Yellowstone area, some elk populations are declining fast. In fact, since the mid-1990s introduction of gray wolves, the northern Yellowstone elk herd has dropped from about 17,000 to 7,100 animals—a 58 percent decline. Other localities in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming also are documenting precipitous downward trends.

Additionally, some research shows that elk remaining in areas of concentrated wolf populations are suffering nutrition loss, lower body weights and decreasing birth rates.

Allen said, “Every wildlife conservation agency, both state and federal, working at ground zero of wolf restoration—Idaho, Montana and Wyoming—has abundant data to demonstrate how undermanaged wolf populations can compromise local elk herds and local livestock production. There’s just no dispute, and emotion-over-science is not the way to professionally manage wildlife.”

RMEF continues to support state-regulated wolf management to include hunting and other viable methods. This position is supported by new reports of diseased wolf populations in the Yellowstone area.

“When wolves are too abundant, they’re more susceptible to diseases, just like all wildlife. The viruses and mange now spreading through wolf packs is another sign of way too many wolves,” said Allen. “Defenders of Wildlife would like to spin sick wolves as a reason to end hunting. But real conservationists know that diseased wildlife populations need better management. Hunting as a management tool delivers that, period.”

He added, “Remember, pro-wolf groups make their living by prolonging this conflict. There is no real incentive for them to admit that wolves are overly recovered. Fundraising is their major motive and they’ve built a goldmine by filing lawsuits and preaching that nature will find its own equilibrium between predators and prey if man would just leave it alone.

That’s a myth. The truth is that people are the most important part of the equation. This isn’t the Wild West anymore. People live here—actually quite a lot of us. So our land and resources must be managed. Wildlife must be managed. Radical spikes and dips in populations show that we should be doing it better. It’s not profitable for plaintiffs, but the rest of us would be better served if the conflict ended and conservation professionals were allowed to get on with their business of managing wildlife, including a well regulated hunting strategy.”

In 2009, RMEF got involved in the ongoing wolf litigation, supporting defendant agencies by filing legal briefs used in federal court to help delist wolves and proceed with hunting—

“facts conveniently ignored by groups who misuse our name, data and credibility to prolong the conflict. We stand for elk and other wildlife and what is happening right now is simply not good wildlife management,” said Allen.

See Allen’s letters to editors, Utah Senator Dennis Stowell and more at www.rmef.org.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.7 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

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Elk Foundation Calls Out Motives of Wolf Groups

Wisconsin DNR

Madison, Wi – -(Ammoland.com)- Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank announced a major new initiative to improve the DNR’s population estimates for white-tailed deer. The information was presented today by wildlife management staff at a meeting of the Natural Resources Board.

“We have heard from hunters who are frustrated and skeptical about the DNR’s deer population estimates. In response to hunter and legislative concerns, we are taking action to improve the model for the deer population estimate, perform additional research, involve hunters more extensively in our efforts, and improve communication with the public on survey results and research findings. Many of these actions have been advocated by hunting organizations,” Frank said.

Frank announced actions, both short-term and long-term, that will include:

Fully implementing the recommendations of the 2006 Sex-Age-Kill model audit, including initiating a buck recovery rate study this year.
Partnering with the University of Wisconsin to do research and data analysis on buck mortality as well research on fawn mortality, including the roles of predators, habitat and weather, beginning with a study in 2011 in northwest Wisconsin.
Beginning this month, the DNR has begun an evaluation of an alternative deer population estimation technique called “distance sampling method” using aircraft. This study is being conducted in areas not previously surveyed with aircraft in both western and eastern Wisconsin. Helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft population surveys will continue in the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Zone in southern Wisconsin.
Working with the Minnesota and Michigan Department of Natural Resources to share insights from data and research projects in all three states regarding deer population trends and dynamics.
Hiring a researcher to review deer-vehicle collision data from salvage operators, Department of Transportation summaries of officer-investigated accidents, and insurance company data to assess usefulness and make recommendations as part of the population estimating process.
Invite hunting organizations to provide input and participate in DNR deer research and studies, and expand efforts to build a data base from hunters’ field observations from deer registration and observations reported on the DNR Web site.
Frank said that “the department will continue to work with the legislature regarding other suggestions, including bringing in an outside, independent third party to verify the accuracy of the data and math used in the preparation of deer population estimates.”

Frank added that the initiative to improve the DNR’s deer population estimate would not have been possible without a significant new investment of federal funds, over $2 million, through additional federal Pittman-Robertson funds allocated to the Wisconsin this year.

“While this is a significant sum, we believe that this is a worthwhile investment to improve the long-term management of a sustainable and healthy deer herd for generations to come,” Frank said.

The presentation to the NRB was made at the board’s Feb. 24 meeting in Madison. The presentation was video recorded and will be available online later today for viewing on the Wildlife pages of the DNR Web site.

A document received by the board, “Investing in Wisconsin’s Whitetails,” detailing past, present and future deer research and outreach efforts is also available online.

The department will be putting out a steady stream of information and updates for hunters and observers of deer and has a new Internet-based delivery system that allows citizens to receive the latest information at home in their email in the form of an alert that something of interest has been posted. Called GovDelivery, users can subscribe and unsubscribe as they wish at anytime and select from a list of subjects that they wish to monitor.

Hunters and others interested in deer can also attend a series of deer management unit information meetings scheduled around the state March 10-25. Meeting locations and times are also available on the DNR Web site.

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Wisconsin Natural Resources Board Hears Update On Whitetails Deer Research

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Annapolis, MD, – -(Ammoland.com)- Governor Martin O’Malley and the Board of Public Works (BPW) today honored three Marylanders who devoted their lives to conservation and stewardship. At the request of the Governor, the Board acted to approve naming of Department of Natural Resources (DNR) properties in honor of folk-singer and educator Tom Wisner, Park Ranger Julie Scheiker, and long-timer DNR employee Gary Yoder.

“Today we honor three individuals who dedicated their lives to helping citizens and visitors better understand and appreciate the beauty and importance of our natural resources,” said Governor O’Malley at a meeting attended by family members, friends and colleagues of the honorees. ”Now their work will live on ― not only in the hearts and minds of all they touched ― but also through the land and education programs they loved.”

The Education center at King’s Landing Park in Calvert County will be named the Tom Wisner Hall at King’s Landing Park. Known as Bard of the Bay, Wisner has been raising awareness among children and adults for the past 40 years about the spirit, beauty, and human connection to the Chesapeake Bay through folk music. In 2002, the World Folk Music Association gave him the John Denver Award.

“Tom was Maryland’s first official environmental educator, who has connected generations of school children to the Bay through music, art, and poetry, and whose footsteps thousands of us continue to follow. Tom is a true hero of the Bay,” said Chesapeake Bay Foundation Vice President for Education Don Baugh.

The Nature Center at Janes Island State Park in Somerset County will be named for Ranger Julie Schweikert. An 18-year Maryland Park Service veteran, Ranger Schweikert worked first as a naturalist, then as park manager until her untimely death in 2009 at the age of 43.

“Julie had a passion for providing interpretive programming for local school children and park visitors,” said MPS Superintendent Nita Settina. “She touched the lives of thousands of young environmental stewards through her passion for getting kids involved with their natural world.”

The Carrie Dixon property in Garrett County will be named the Gary A. Yoder Fish Management Area in honor of the 30-year DNR employee, who was instrumental in efforts to restore and promote fishing opportunities in the region. Yoder, who passed away suddenly in December, was DNR’s first manager of Deep Creek Lake and later worked extensively in land acquisition and planning. The Carrie Dixon parcel was DNR’s first acquisition for public boating and fishing access on the North Branch of the Potomac River.
“If I know my father as well as I think I do, I know he would be proud of this honor,” said Garrett Yoder, Gary’s 14-year old son. “He put everything into his work and now I’m happy that there is a way for everybody to know the important work he’s done.”

“The passion and dedication of Tom, Julie and Gary have long-inspired our DNR family,” said Secretary John Griffin. “It is our honor to be able to recognize them — their spirit and their remarkable contributions — in this way.”

About:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, (DNR) which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2009, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 467,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland’s effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.DNR.Maryland.gov.

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Maryland Governor O’Malley Honors Life-Long Conservationists

Agriculture Secretary defends proposed federal budget cuts to Farm Bill programs in House hearing

Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

WASHINGTON- –(Ammoland.com)- The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership today urged House lawmakers to reject reductions to Farm Bill programs that are critical to American private-lands conservation and hunting and fishing opportunities.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack defended the potential cuts in a hearing this morning before the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, which for the first time is reviewing the Obama administration’s fiscal year 2011 budget for the Agriculture Department.

The budget proposes funding decreases for programs such as the Conservation Reserve Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, Grasslands Reserve Program and Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program. The TRCP and other sportsmen-conservation groups have fought for and championed federal support of these and other Farm Bill programs, which include compensating farmers and other landowners for undertaking measures to conserve wetlands and farmland at risk from development.

“While we appreciate the administration’s desire to reduce unnecessary federal spending, the fact remains that these programs are crucial to our country’s ability to sustain private-lands fish and wildlife habitat – habitat that forms the bedrock of outdoor sporting traditions for millions of Americans,” said Tom Franklin, TRCP director of policy and government relations.

The TRCP expressed concern about the delay by the USDA’s Farm Service Agency in releasing regulations and funding for the Voluntary Access and Habitat Incentive Program, or “Open Fields,” which was authorized by Congress for the first time in the 2008 Farm Bill. Open Fields provides states $50 million in federal funds to create or enhance hunter-access programs on private lands and has been a flagship issue for the TRCP since the group’s inception.

“Open Fields was developed in part by the TRCP and our partner organizations, and sportsmen have an enormous stake in seeing it come to fruition,” said Franklin. “Congress can assure expanded public access to hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreation activities by taking an active role in ensuring the speedy implementation of this important program.

“In the spirit in which our outdoor traditions were forged,” Franklin concluded, “we urge Congress to maintain funding levels agreed upon at the time of the current Farm Bill’s passage in 2008. In doing so, our leaders will assure that conservation activities by individual landowners and citizens remain a priority for our nation and our people.”

Read about the TRCP’s ongoing efforts to promote private-lands conservation via the Farm Bill.

Inspired by the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, the TRCP is a coalition of organizations and grassroots partners working together to preserve the traditions of hunting and fishing.

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Sportsmen Urge Congress To Maintain Full Funding For Farm Bill Conservation Programs

National Wild Turkey Federation

EDGEFIELD, S.C. – -(Ammoland.com)- Master Officer Cleggett Gregory Funkhouser has earned the National Wild Turkey Federation’s National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award for his efforts in conserving America’s wildlife.

Master Officer Cleggett Gregory Funkhouser won the NWTF’s National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award at the NWTF convention, held in Nashville, Feb. 18 to Feb. 21.
Funkhouser, of Roanoke, Va., received the award during NWTF’s 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by MidwayUSA, and held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Feb. 18 to Feb. 21.

“As a boy, I grew up wanting to be a wildlife officer and it’s been great doing something I love that makes a difference for wildlife,” said Funkhouser. “The NWTF is a great organization and I’m honored to accept this award.”

Master Officer Cleggett Gregory Funkhouser won the NWTF's National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award at the NWTF convention

An 11-year veteran of Virginia’s Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) law enforcement division, Funkhouser has established a solid reputation as a caring professional who works tirelessly to conserve natural resources and devotes many hours to community service.

“Greg’s conviction rate of poachers is extraordinary,” VDGIF Sgt. Brian Young said. “He averages a yearly arrest total of nearly 500 cases and is a district leader in narcotic detection. He is an expert in his field who consistently goes beyond the call of duty.”

Young adds that Funkhouser’s devotion to his job and quick thinking once led him to jump into frigid waters to save the life of a distraught man who attempted suicide. Because of Funkhouser’s efforts, the man survived and later thanked Funkhouser for giving him another chance at life.

The NWTF initiated the State Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award in 2000 to highlight the contributions from wildlife officers across the country. In addition to playing a crucial role in helping to convict wildlife criminals, many wildlife officers volunteer their own time to help educate youth about the importance of wildlife, conservation and our hunting traditions.

For more information about the NWTF or the NWTF National Convention and Sport Show, visit nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF.

2010 Convention Sponsors:
Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.

About the NWTF:
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

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Virginia Wildlife Officer Earns National NWTF Award

White-Nose Syndrome In Bats

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia --(AmmoLand.com)- Biologists from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) report that white-nose syndrome (WNS) has been confirmed in a bat in Hellhole, Pendleton County, West Virginia, by the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study in Athens, Ga.

If the effects of WNS on the bats in Hellhole are similar to those seen elsewhere, biologists expect that WNS will devastate the bat population in this cave, including endangered species.

Hellhole is the largest and most important bat cave in the state. An estimated 200,000 bats spend the winter hibernating in the cave. The cave is also important on a national level as it is designated critical habitat for two federally endangered species, the Indiana bat and the Virginia big-eared bat.

Hellhole supports nearly 13,000 Indiana bats and 5,000 Virginia big-ears. The other bats in the cave are mostly the more common little brown bat. This single cave supports more than 40 percent of the world’s entire hibernating population of Virginia big-eared bats. Hellhole is privately owned and is closed to the public.

WNS is a serious wildlife health crisis estimated to have caused the death of more than 1 million bats during the past three years. It is named for a white fungus that often appears on the muzzles of hibernating bats. Once a cave is infected, the fungus spreads rapidly through the bat population, and mortality may exceed 90 percent.

WNS was first seen in early 2006 in a cave near Albany, N.Y. Since then, it has spread more than 500 miles to caves in 10 states from New Hampshire to Tennessee. Last winter it was documented in four caves in Pendleton County, but not Hellhole.

WNS is spread bat-to-bat as they cluster in caves and mines. In addition, scientists have evidence that it could also be transferred from one cave to another on the footwear, clothing, and gear of humans visiting caves. Infected caves and mines may not initially show obvious signs of its presence, so cavers may be unaware that their gear is contaminated.

Bats with WNS use up their fat stores too quickly and do not have the energy reserves they require to hibernate the entire winter. The bats exhibit unusual behaviors, such as flying out of caves during the winter, even in the middle of the day. Unfortunately, few insects are available for the bats to feed on, and eventually the bats starve to death. There have been no reported human illnesses attributed to WNS, and there is no evidence to suggest that WNS is harmful to any animals other than bats.

In January 2010, bats were observed flying out of the entrance of Hellhole. Laboratory tests conducted on a little brown bat captured as it left Hellhole confirmed that the bat was carrying the WNS fungus. WVDNR and USFWS biologists, in cooperation with the National Speleological Society and Germany Valley Karst Survey, are planning to conduct a trip into Hellhole to further document the condition of the bats.

Bats play a key role in keeping insects, including as agricultural pests, mosquitoes and forest pests, under control. Between April and October, each bat can eat its body weight in insects each night. Bats provide a tremendous public service in terms of pest control. If we lose our bat populations, we will lose the tremendous ecological and economic benefits the bats provide.

The USFWS and WVDNR are working with other partners to find ways to treat WNS and slow the spread. Because people may inadvertently transport WNS, in March 2009, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommended a moratorium on caving in states with confirmed WNS and all adjoining states. In addition, because scientists are concerned about the presence of WNS in the vicinity of the most important Virginia big-eared bat caves, last year a few of these bats were brought into captivity for the first time in an attempt to establish a healthy population that could be used to restore populations if that should become necessary.

Although it is not unusual to see an occasional bat flying on a warm day in winter, it is unusual to see large number of bats or bats flying during inclement weather. If you see bats flying during the day and feel something is “just not right,” please report those sightings to: Bat Report, PO Box 67, Elkins, WV 26241. Please mention the county, location, approximate number of bats, time of day, weather conditions and your contact information.

For more information on WNS, please visit www.fws.gov/northeast/white_nose.html.

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WVDNR And USTWS Biologists Report White-Nose Syndrome In Bat In Hellhole

National Wild Turkey Federation

EDGEFIELD, S.C — -(AmmoLand.com)-  The New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation received an L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter Award during the NWTF’s 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show, which was sponsored by Midway USA, in Nashville, Tenn.

The New York State Chapter was recognized by the NWTF for winning first place in the 5,000 to 9,999 Members category. The chapter has been a leader in the NWTF’s chapter system, and a credit to the NWTF.

The L.A. Dixon Memorial awards are given in honor of a man who gave unselfishly during the NWTF’s early years. Dixon founded the NWTF’s North Carolina State Chapter, served at the national, state and local levels and traveled thousands of miles at his own expense carrying the NWTF’s message to all who would listen. The NWTF honors Dixon’s achievements through the L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter Awards.

“The NWTF’s volunteers and chapters make the Federation’ conservation and outreach work possible,” said George Thornton, NWTF CEO. “We’re proud to present our chapters with the L.A. Dixon Awards to honor their excellent performances and unrivaled dedication.”

The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage. Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

Last year, NWTF chapters hosted nearly 2,300 Hunting Heritage Super Fund banquets to raise funds for the NWTF’s conservation and outreach initiatives.

For more information about the NWTF’s L.A. Dixon awards or other convention highlights, call (800) THE-NWTF, or go online at www.nwtf.org.

2010 Convention Sponsors:
Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.

About the NWTF:
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more than 350,000 members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

The NWTF was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. According to many state and federal agencies, the comeback of the wild turkey is arguably the greatest conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF for details.

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New York Volunteers Win Top Award at NWTF Convention

Ruffed Grouse Society

Montgomery City, MO --(AmmoLand.com)- The Mid-Missouri Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) will hold its 31st Annual Sportsmen’s Banquet on Saturday, March 20, 2010 at the, Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Montgomery City, MO beginning with a reception party at 4 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.

As has been the custom at this event, the evening will feature a live and silent auction, games, drawings and door prizes; highlighted with the finest selection of quality firearms, artwork and collectable’s.

According to Jamie Barton, individual membership and dinner tickets are $55. There is also an optional family membership package for $40 which includes membership for each household member and a 1-year subscription for one RGS magazine. Dinner tickets for this package are $30 for each attendee. Banquet, Conservation and Sustaining sponsorship packages are also available at $275, $500 and $1,000 respectively.

As with all RGS fundraisers, proceeds from this event will be used to restore and protect grouse and woodcock habitat.

For more information and/or tickets contact Barton at 573-564-3715, ext 8.

About:
Established in 1961, the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) is the one international wildlife conservation organization dedicated to promoting conditions suitable for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and related wildlife to sustain our sport hunting tradition and outdoor heritage.

Information on the RGS, its mission, management projects and membership can be found on the web at: www.ruffedgrousesociety.org.

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RGS To Hold Fundraiser Dinner In Montgomery City, MO

National Wild Turkey Federation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – -(AmmoLand.com)- If a picture is worth a thousand words, the smiles and fun captured in photos at the many Women in the Outdoors events held nationwide would speak enough to write a novel.

For doing an exceptional job of introducing women to activities in the great outdoors, the National Wild Turkey Federation’s Bakersfield Chapter, from Bakersfield, Calif., was honored with the Best Local Membership Achievement Award during the NWTF’s 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show. The convention, sponsored by MidwayUSA, is taking place in Nashville until Feb. 21.

“The team that works to put this event together is awesome,” said Kristie Blaylock, Women in the Outdoors event coordinator for the chapter. “Each volunteer works tirelessly to offer 47 classes and incredible food to more than 400 women, and every one of them will be thrilled for the chapter to receive this award.”

Kristie Blaylock accepted the Women in the Outdoors Best Local Membership Achievement Award for the Bakersfield Chapter during the National Wild Turkey Federation's 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show.

Since 1998, the NWTF volunteers have worked through the Women in the Outdoors program to share the outdoor tradition by providing expert instruction and hands-on education through events designed for women. During its inaugural year, Women in the Outdoors hosted 18 events and today the program organizes more than 240 events annually across the nation.

“The NWTF’s Women in the Outdoors program is for North America’s moms, daughters and sisters, who want to get outside, learn new activities and make new friends,” said Teresa Carroll, Women in the Outdoors program coordinator. “The Bakersfield Chapter has taken the lead in their area for introducing women to activities like self-defense, canoeing, fishing, hunting, shooting and more.”

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

For more information about the Women in the Outdoors outreach program or the NWTF visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF.

2010 Convention Sponsors:
Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.

About the NWTF:
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more than 350,000 members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

The NWTF was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. According to many state and federal agencies, the comeback of the wild turkey is arguably the greatest conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF for details.

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Bakersfield’s Women in the Outdoors Chapter Wins National Award

National Wild Turkey Federation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. --(AmmoLand.com)- Volunteers with the Neil “Gobbler” Cost Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation are dedicated to preserving North America’s outdoor traditions by providing opportunities for youth to learn outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, shooting and more.

The Neil “Gobbler” Cost Chapter received a Best JAKES Event Award during the Federation’s 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show. Divided into categories based on event size, the Neil “Gobbler” Cost Chapter hosted the nation’s best event for between 76 and 150 youth. The convention, sponsored by MidwayUSA, is taking place in Nashville until Feb. 21.

“Without our volunteers’ determination and hard work, we couldn’t have earned this award,” said Dennis Waters, JAKES program coordinator for the Neil “Gobbler” Cost Chapter. “The volunteers will all be so proud, and also inspired to keep up the good work.”

Dennis Waters from the National Wild Turkey Federation's Neil "Gobbler" Cost Chapter accepted the chapter's award for hosting the nation's best JAKES event for between 76 and 150 youth.

Headquartered in Greenwood, S.C., the Neil “Gobbler” Cost Chapter hosted a JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship) event that was one of the best out of more than 1,000 JAKES events hosted by NWTF chapters nationwide.

“Hunting, fishing, shooting and other outdoor activities are safe, enjoyable and educational for youth,” said Mandy Harling, JAKES program coordinator. “The Neil “Gobbler” Cost Chapter has taken the lead in their area for ensuring that young people understand how important conservation and being good stewards of land and wildlife are to our hunting heritage.”

The NWTF’s JAKES program is dedicated to teaching the principles of wildlife management and passing along the traditions of safe, ethical and responsible hunting to youth up to age 12.

The Xtreme JAKES program was developed for teens between the ages of 13 and 17. The program provides advanced outdoor opportunities and challenges more in line with older JAKES abilities and experiences.

Combined, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES events held throughout North America attracted more than 75,000 youth in 2009. The JAKES program is growing steadily, and earning a JAKES award has become increasingly competitive. Any local NWTF chapter that hosts a JAKES event can apply for the JAKES awards.

For more information about the JAKES program or the NWTF visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF.

2010 Convention Sponsors:
Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.

About the NWTF:
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more than 350,000 members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

The NWTF was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. According to many state and federal agencies, the comeback of the wild turkey is arguably the greatest conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF for details.

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Greenwood’s NWTF Chapter Wins National Award for Educating Youth

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(AmmoLand.com)- Wildlife conservation projects in 12 Oregon counties have been selected to receive grants from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in 2010.

The new RMEF funding, totaling $153,500, will affect Benton, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Grant, Harney, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Union and Wallowa counties.

“These grants are possible because of the successful banquets and fundraisers staged over the past year by our Oregon volunteers—most of whom are elk hunters as well as devoted conservationists,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “Since 1984, our annual grants have helped complete 633 different projects in Oregon with a combined value of more than $36 million.”

RMEF grants will help fund the following projects, listed by county:

• Crook County—Thin 575 acres of juniper encroachment in meadows and aspen stands, treat noxious weeds on 160 acres, and restore riparian habitat along 2 miles of stream in the Deep Creek area of Ochoco National Forest; hand-cut and burn 400 acres of encroaching juniper in the Maury Mountains area of Ochoco National Forest.
• Curry County—Prescribe burn 129 acres, and re-seed native grasses on 20 acres, to maintain forage areas for elk and other wildlife in the Wildhorse Prairie area of Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.
• Deschutes County—Thin conifer from willow and aspen stands, prescribe burn 15 acres and treat noxious weeds on 5 acres in Tumalo Creek area of Deschutes National Forest.
• Douglas County—Create 20 acres of forage openings and plant shrubs on 93 acres to improve 113 acres of habitat for elk in the Umpqua National Forest.
• Grant County—Rehab 100 acres of meadow habitat used by foraging elk and deer in the Rudio Mountain area; thin encroaching conifer to restore 150 acres of meadow in the Logan Valley area of Malheur National Forest; remove juniper to promote sagebrush and bitterbrush growth on 1,235 acres in the Murderer’s Creek area of Malheur National Forest and state lands; re-seed native grasses on 880 acres in the Chrome Ridge area; thin 270 acres, construct fencing around 2 acres of aspen stands, treat noxious weeds and reconstruct two springs in Ochoco National Forest.
• Harney County—Enhance habitat for elk and other wildlife by repairing wildlife drinking stations, collecting native shrub seeds, reseeding habitat areas and employing livestock practices to control noxious weeds in the Egley wildfire area of Malheur National Forest; thin encroaching conifer on 160 acres, replace fencing around aspen stands and develop five ponds or wildlife drinking stations in the Pine Creek area of Malheur National Forest.
• Lane County—Improve forage for elk by removing encroaching conifer and noxious weeds to restore 283 acres of meadows in Willamette National Forest; treat noxious weeds and re-seed native grasses on 100 acres, and rejuvenate browse on 102 acres, in the Foley Ridge area of Willamette National Forest; thin and prescribe burn 112 acres and re-seed native grasses in the Chucksney and Grasshopper meadows area of Willamette National Forest; prescribe burn 56 acres, plant oak seedlings on 40 acres, and re-seed native grasses on 200 acres in the Jim’s Creek area of Willamette National Forest; mechanically treat noxious weeds and re-seed native grasses on 500 acres in the Siuslaw National Forest (also affects Benton, Douglas and Lincoln counties).
• Linn County—Remove encroaching trees from meadow complexes used year-round by foraging elk in the Lodgepole Flats area of Willamette National Forest; create 40 acres of forage openings in the Yellowstone Creek area of BLM lands.
• Union County—Control noxious weeds, re-seed native grasses and develop water sources for elk and other wildlife on 705 acres near Ladd Marsh Wildlife Management Area.
• Wallowa County—Treat 828 acres of noxious weeds to improve forage for elk along the Grande Ronde and Imnaha river corridors (also affects Union County).

Projects are selected for RMEF grants by a committee of volunteers and staff along with representatives from partnering organizations. Partners for 2010 projects in Oregon include Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service, other agencies, corporations and landowners.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.7 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

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Oregon Conservation Projects to Receive RMEF Grants

National Wild Turkey Federation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. --(AmmoLand.com)- The National Wild Turkey Federation honored two men who have dedicated their lives to conservation during the Federation’s 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show in Nashville today.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) wildlife biologist Steve Backs, and retired Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife Biologist, James Cardoza, were presented the Wayne Bailey Lifetime Achievement Award, named for a pioneer in wild turkey restoration.

Steve Backs of Illinois received the Wayne Bailey Lifetime Achievement Award during the National Wild Turkey Federation's 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show in Nashville.

“Wayne Bailey was known to many as the godfather of modern turkey management and was a key player in the development of the NWTF,” James Earl Kenammer, Ph.D., NWTF’s chief conservation officer, told the crowd as he recognized Backs and Cardoza during the NWTF Conservation Awards Luncheon.

“To be recognized with an award bearing his name is special. We are very judicious when selecting someone for this honor, and I’m proud to be standing here recognizing these men’s dedication to wildlife conservation in front of their peers today.”

Said Backs, “Wayne Bailey accomplished so much in his career and everyone looked up to him. To receive an award named after one of my mentors is truly humbling.”

Backs has spent 31 years dedicating his career to quail, wild turkey and grouse research and conservation.

“During Steve’s career with the IDNR the number of wild turkeys has exploded statewide, and turkey hunters have grown from fewer than 1,000 to more than 60,000 strong,” Kennamer said. “Steve has worn many hats for the state during the past three decades, working with grouse, quail and wild turkeys. But ultimately, his work for all three species is inter-connected. His research, trap-and-transfer efforts and habitat improvement initiatives has been invaluable for everyone in the state — hunters and non-hunters alike.”

In 1996, Backs was honored as the IDNR’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Biologist of the Year and during his career has received several other service awards.

“Steve has steadily produced quality research and insight into upland bird biology, from turkeys to quail and grouse,” said Robert Abernethy, NWTF’s assistant vice president of agency and outreach programs. “He has authored more than 350 internal reports and published more than 20 technical manuscripts, including papers in five of nine National Wild Turkey Symposiums. Upland bird biology wouldn’t be what it is today without his contributions.”

The National Wild Turkey Federation presented James Cardoza of Massachusetts with the Wayne Bailey Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of working to benefit wild turkeys.

The National Wild Turkey Symposium is held every five years and brings wildlife researchers together with the wildlife biologists who set season dates, bag limits and hunting regulations throughout the country. During the four-day conference, graduate students and wildlife researchers present 45 papers on dozens of subjects and years of wild turkey research — research done to learn what wild turkeys need to survive and why they behave as they do.

“I knew Wayne Bailey well and recognize his many accomplishments for wild turkeys, so I am very pleased to receive an award named after him,” Cardoza said. “However, I am just the recipient. I consider this a shared award with all the men and women who were involved with restoring wild turkeys in Massachusetts and nationwide.”

Cardoza served the wildlife and people of Massachusetts for 40 years before retiring in 2009. Prior to his retirement, Cardoza managed the wild turkey and black bear research and management projects for Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and was frequently called upon to handle any wayward moose that wandered in the Commonwealth.

“James Cardoza was a pioneer in wild turkey restoration in Massachusetts,” Abernethy said. “He was involved in wild turkey restoration in the state almost from the beginning of the restoration program. His planning and work on the ground have provided Massachusetts turkey hunters with untold numbers of days afield.”

Cardoza has a number of publications to his credit in ornithological journals and is considered to be a wealth of knowledge on many conservation-related subjects. Cardoza joined the Northeast Wild Turkey Technical Committee in 1970 and served as its chair for 13 years. During his tenure as chair of the committee (now known as the Northeast Upland Game Bird Committee) the group completed many technical bulletins providing information for future generations of wildlife biologists. He also served on the National Wild Turkey Technical Committee from the late 1970’s through his retirement.

The 2010 NWTF National Convention and Sport Show, sponsored in part by MidwayUSA and themed “Live the Tradition – Conserve. Hunt. Share.,” is giving credit where credit is due: to the thousands of volunteers who work to progress the NWTF’s mission on a daily basis so future generations can live the tradition of hunting and enjoying the outdoors.

To learn more about the NWTF’s National Convention and Sport Show, visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF.

2010 Convention Sponsors:
Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.

About the NWTF: The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more than 350,000 members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

The NWTF was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. According to many state and federal agencies, the comeback of the wild turkey is arguably the greatest conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF for details.

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NWTF Bestows Wayne Bailey Honor at National Convention

New Jersey Outdoor Alliance

Belmar, NJ --(AmmoLand.com)- The New Jersey Outdoor Alliance Conservation Foundation is pleased to welcome Cape May County Party & Charter Boat Association to its diverse council membership.

Cape May County Party & Charter Boat Association is an organization made up of many local boats located at the southern jersey shore, from Ocean City to Cape May.

It joins an expanding group of influential conservation organizations that comprise the NJOACF Council. NJOACF is dedicated to advancing sound conservation policy in Trenton. We employ a full time government affairs group to work in conjunction with the NJOACF Council and volunteer force of officers, managers and representatives to make New Jersey a “conservation” state.

On behalf of all NJOACF and its supporters I’d like to welcome Cape May County Party & Charter Boat Association to our council! You may learn more abut their organization by visiting their website: www.fishingnj.com

NJOACF Council:
Reef Rescue * NJ State Federation Sportsmen’s Clubs * Jersey Coast Anglers Association * Trout Unlimited * National Wild Turkey Federation * NJ Beach Buggy Association * Hudson River Fishermen’s Association * United Bow Hunters NJ * New Jersey Council Diving Clubs * NJ Trappers Association * NJ Forestry Association * Society of American Foresters * Quail Unlimited * Ruffed Grouse Society * National Animal Interest Alliance Trust * Greater Point Pleasant Charter Boat Association * Cape May County Party & Charter Boat Association * New Jersey Outdoor Alliance

JOIN NJOA: http://www.njoutdooralliance.org/support/njoa.html

About:
NJOA – The mission of New Jersey Outdoor Alliance is to serve as a grassroots coalition of outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen dedicated to environmental stewardship. We will champion the intrinsic value of natural resource conservation – including fishing, hunting and trapping, among opinion leaders and policy makers. We will support legislation, and those sponsoring legislation, that provides lasting ecological and social enrichment through sustainable use of the earth’s resources. Visit: www.njoutdooralliance.org

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NJOA Conservation Foundation Welcomes Newest Member

National Wild Turkey Federation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. --(AmmoLand.com)- The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) honored Thomas Rhoden of Flowood, Miss., with the Wild Turkey Woodlands National Award for implementing quality land management practices, supporting his community and his outstanding NWTF chapter involvement.

The award was presented at the NWTF 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show, which is sponsored by MidwayUSA, and takes place Feb. 18 to Feb. 21 in Nashville, Tenn.

The Wild Turkey Woodlands National Award recognizes committed landowners who meet the needs of wildlife on their land, help promote the NWTF’s mission and are involved in their community, while publicly encouraging conservation.

Rhoden manages his farm to provide quality habitat for wild turkeys and other wildlife. He is restoring native longleaf pine to a 75-acre parcel through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife and Parks’ landowner incentive program and plans to restore longleaf pine on all remaining suitable areas of his property in the next few years. Longleaf pine supports a wide variety of wildlife and is better adapted than other pine species planted previously. He also maintains more than 30 wildlife openings to produce supplemental forage for wildlife year round, and has utilized the NWTF’s Operation Oak program to improve hardwood stands with new seedling plantings to further enhance food and habitat for wildlife in the future.

In addition to his dedication to wildlife, Rhoden is a sponsor member of the Greater Jackson Chapter of the NWTF and is very involved with their annual Mississippi Wheelin’ Sportsmen Youth Deer Hunt. He serves on the committee, provides financial contributions and hosts four to six youth hunters from the Magnolia Speech School on his property.

“Tom goes out of his way to accommodate the children and their families during the hunt,” Joe Wood, NWTF Mississippi regional director, said. “He provides them a comfortable place to rest and relax and even serves homemade barbecue and smoked turkey meals for his special guests.

Rhoden has hosted two Wild Turkey Woodlands Field Days on his property to educate area landowners about the benefits of the Wild Turkey Woodlands program. Rhoden is also a tireless advocate for NWTF conservation and outreach programs. The Mississippi Chapter of NWTF has recognized Rhoden as an Outstanding Land Steward at their annual awards banquet in Feb. 2008.

“Tom’s habitat work and support of his local community is a perfect example of what the NWTF and Wild Turkey Woodlands program promote,” said Joe Koloski, USDA Forest Service natural resource specialist. “The Wild Turkey Woodlands award highlights people around the country who practice sound land management and preserve places for wildlife and future generations to enjoy.”

To learn more about the NWTF National Convention and Sport Show, click here or call (800) THE-NWTF.

2010 Convention Sponsors:
Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.

About the NWTF:
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a nonprofit conservation organization that works daily to further its mission of conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage.

Through dynamic partnerships with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies, the NWTF and its more than 350,000 members have helped restore wild turkey populations across the country, spending more than $306 million to conserve 14 million acres of habitat for all types of wildlife.

The Federation works to increase interest in the outdoors by bringing new hunters and conservationists into the fold through outdoor education events and its outreach programs – Women in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES.

The NWTF was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. According to many state and federal agencies, the comeback of the wild turkey is arguably the greatest conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF for details.

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Mississippi Landowner Wins National Award

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Florida – -(Ammoland.com)- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) voted Wednesday to temporarily prohibit the chasing of foxes and coyotes in enclosures, while moving forward to draft rules guiding such enclosures in Florida. An executive order prohibiting chasing of foxes and coyotes within an enclosure will be issued by Feb. 24.

Before making the decision, Commissioners listened to more than 40 speakers on fox and coyote pens, beginning with Rep. Debbie Boyd, D-High Springs. Boyd urged the Commission to recognize the shortcomings on both sides of the issue, to address those shortcomings and engage stakeholders in the process.

“This issue has been painted with a broad brush,” Boyd said. “I ask the Commission to engage stakeholders and put fox and coyote enclosures into rule rather than through the permit process.”

After listening to emotional appeals from the public, whose comments ranged from calling the practice of hunting foxes and coyotes within enclosures a “heritage” and “a way of life” to making charges of “cruelty” and “mauling” of the animals, Commissioners discussed how to proceed based on staff recommendations and public comment.

“Rep. Boyd said it best,” said Commissioner Kathy Barco. “We need to allow for the process so everybody works together.”

FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto said he leaned toward an outright ban of the practice but also felt the process should be given a chance for review.

“I’m not sure I’ll support the draft rules when they come back,” Barreto said. “I don’t see any sport in the animals’ having no escape. I personally don’t agree with the practice.”

Last September, FWC commissioners directed the agency’s law enforcement staff to explore the history behind the enclosures, including a review of the agency’s permitting process and the number of such enclosures in the state. Then-Executive Director Ken Haddad issued an executive order, putting a moratorium on issuing permits for chasing foxes or coyotes in enclosures.

During Wednesday’s meeting at Apalachicola, commissioners received the report, indicating such enclosures have been around since 1988, when the agency began meeting with stakeholders to draw up regulations for permitting them. Previously, fox hunting took place on large land tracts, but fewer tracts were available as Florida’s human population grew.

Enclosure operators also began using more-readily available coyotes captured within Florida. Importing coyotes from other states is illegal.

It is not legal to kill foxes in Florida, but chasing them with dogs has been a long-standing tradition.

At one time, there were about 50 fox and coyote pens from the Panhandle to Central Florida. Currently, however, because of the moratorium and decreasing demand, the state has only one permitted facility.

In 2007, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources completed an investigation into fox pens in that state, and shared information with the FWC, indicating illegal importation, sale and delivery of foxes or coyotes was taking place among Alabama and six other states.

FWC investigators made similar discoveries during a 10-month undercover operation in 2008. They found some enclosures were ignoring permit provisions. As a result, officers cited 12 suspects for 46 alleged violations.

FWC wildlife veterinarian Mark Cunningham stated in a report that importation of foxes from other states could result in the spread of disease strains and parasites that are not native to Florida, and that poses health risks for humans, native wildlife, pets and livestock.

“This is not a referendum on hunting; we are a pro-hunting commission,” said Commissioner Brian Yablonski. “But we must consider the concept of ‘fair chase,’ and I am not sure chasing coyotes and foxes in an enclosure meets that standard of hunting – a standard that is important to preserving hunting in the future.”

The Commission asked staff to hold workshops and meet with stakeholders to develop draft rules. The draft rules will be brought back for consideration at the June meeting, with the possibility of final rule approval in September.

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Florida Wildlife Commission Decides To Draft Rules Guiding Fox And Coyote Enclosures

Quail Forever

Knoxville, Tenn. – Tennessee is home to a new pair of Quail Forever chapters. Quail enthusiasts in Knox County formed Smoky Mountain Quail Forever, while Maury County quail hunters and conservationists formed Duck River Quail Forever.

Both groups set out with the common goal of improving habitat for a Tennessee species in great need, the bobwhite quail.

As Quail Forever chapters, the Smoky Mountain and Duck River groups will utilize Quail Forever’s local approach to wildlife habitat conservation.

Unlike other national conservation organizations, Quail Forever gives local Quail Forever chapters the ability to decide how 100 percent of their fundraised dollars are spent. This local control gives chapters and members the ability to make things happen for wildlife in their communities, while belonging to a national organization that gives wildlife and conservation a voice in Washington, D.C.

“Bobwhite quail populations won’t rebound by themselves. It takes people who care about quail, care about rolling up their sleeves and doing the necessary habitat work, and care about showing younger generations there is excitement beyond a box and a plug-in,” said Tim Caughran, regional wildlife biologist for Quail Forever in Tennessee. “I’m proud to say such quail folk call Knox and Maury Counties home.”

Smoky Mountain Quail Forever
This Knox County group already calls some serious quail conservationists members, and according to the chapter’s president, Mike Cable of Knoxville, will be digging into its first wildlife habitat projects this March.

• Chapter leaders include Joseph Justice, treasurer, from Knoxville; Jim Horton, youth/education chair, from Maryville; and Greg McDaniel, habitat chair, also from Maryville.
• For more information or to become a member of the Smoky Mountain Quail Forever chapter, contact Mike Cable at 865-809-4588 or via email at 428scj@charter.net.

Duck River Quail Forever
Working alongside one of the most biologically diverse river systems in North America, the Duck River Quail Forever chapter is optimistic about increasing quail populations and augmenting the work of state and federal wildlife agencies.

“We would like to work with wildlife professionals in the areas surrounding Duck River to improve upland habitat for quail and other wildlife,” said Bob Tarter, treasurer of the Duck River chapter. “We are fortunate to be located in such a naturally diverse area, and we think this will bode well for quail in the years to come.”

• For more information or to become a member of the Duck River Quail Forever chapter, contact Bob Tarter at 901-212-1453 or via email at Bob@nhecm.com.

Quail Forever is the quail division of Pheasants Forever. Tennessee is home seven Quail Forever chapters. For more information about Quail Forever in Tennessee, contact Tim Caughran at 618-467-2586 and tcaughran@quailforever.org.

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Quail Forever Doubles Down in Tennessee with New Chapters

Pheasants Forever's National Pheasant Fest 2010

Des Moines, Iowa -(Ammoland.com)- Pheasants Forever has confirmed U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will attend National Pheasant Fest 2010. Vilsack, the former Governor of Iowa, is slated to give the keynote address at the Pheasant Fest luncheon on Saturday, February 27th at noon. Immediately following the luncheon, Secretary Vilsack will sign a first-ever Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, and Pheasants Forever.

“We are very pleased to have the Secretary joining us at National Pheasant Fest and see this MOU with the NRCS and FSA as an excellent step toward accelerating the delivery of conservation policy to on-the-ground habitat acres,” reported Dave Nomsen, Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever’s Vice President of Government Affairs.

The MOU establishes the framework for the three groups to work together in partnership toward common goals; specifically the implementation of Farm Bill conservation programs. The MOU allows for the free flow of information between the groups and provides a foundation for Pheasants Forever to deliver conservation technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and landowners. In this capacity, Pheasants Forever, along with other state wildlife partners, currently employ 50 Farm Bill and Partner Biologists in eight states. The Farm Bill Biologist program is designed to assist landowners in implementing conservation practices on their property. To date, Pheasants Forever Farm Bill Biologists have contacted and consulted 30,000 landowners, resulting in the improvement of 1.3 million acres of land for wildlife.

The Future of CRP
“We are also optimistic that Secretary Vilsack will be bringing us some much needed good news about the Conservation Reserve Program’s future,” added Nomsen. “Every pheasant hunter, particularly our Iowa members, looks across the snow covered landscape today and clearly sees the need for returning significant acres back to the program.”

Originally established in 1985, CRP is in its 25th year. There are currently 31.1 million acres enrolled in the program nationwide, which has seen 6.5 million acres expire in the last three years. Of significant concern is that another 15.4 million acres more are set to expire by the autumn of 2012 without any new sign-ups currently upcoming.

CRP is a voluntary program offering landowners annual payments for 10-15 year contracts for establishing grass, wetlands, shrub, and/or tree cover on their environmentally sensitive lands. Not only have these CRP lands been shown to improve pheasant populations, but CRP is also responsible for improvements in water quality, soil erosion prevention, and the creation of critical habitat for a wide variety of other wildlife species. CRP also helps stabilize farmer’s incomes through annual payments and contributes billions of dollars to the economy annually from hunting expenditures; much of which benefits rural communities.

Pheasant Notes
At a press conference on March 9, 2006, then Governor Vilsack helped Pheasants Forever announce National Pheasant Fest’s first visit to Des Moines in 2007. Iowa bird hunters set an all time low pheasant harvest during the 2008 season with 383,000 roosters bagged. It’s expected the 2009 season total will be even lower than 2008. In the last three years, 389,426 acres of CRP have expired in Iowa. There are currently 1.6 million acres of CRP under contract in Iowa. However, another 422,041 acres are slated to expire in the next three years.
Secretary Vilsack will become the third Secretary of Agriculture to attend National Pheasant Fest. Mike Johanns attended the Des Moines event in 2007 and Chuck Connor attended the Saint Paul event in 2008.
National Pheasant Fest 2010
Pheasant Fest is the country’s largest event for upland hunters, sport dog owners and wildlife habitat conservationists, combining a national outdoor tradeshow, wildlife habitat seminar series, and family event complete with puppies, tractors, shotguns, and art.

Adults – $10 Daily * Ages 6-16 – $5 Daily * Ages 5 and Under – FREE
Weekend Special – $30 (Includes annual Pheasants Forever membership & hat, over $80 value)
To purchase tickets for the Saturday luncheon at Pheasant Fest where Secretary Vilsack will be the keynote speaker, please call Stacy at Pheasants Forever toll free 877.773.2070. Tickets are $30 each. www.PheasantFest.org

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USDA Secretary Vilsack Returning to Iowa to Attend National Pheasant Fest

Danner Boots

PORTLAND, Ore. --(AmmoLand.com)- Inspired by a shared passion for the outdoors and desire to preserve the legacy of the hunt, Danner has entered into a renewed relationship with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Crafting a partnership that incorporates traditional sponsorship opportunities as well as fundraising events and promotions that support the mission of conservation and habitat preservation, Danner is actively working to support the future of the industry.

Cementing the partnership, Danner has donated $2500 to the RMEF as part of the official unveiling of the new Pronghorn™ series of hunting boots at the 2010 SHOT Show. Updated to perform like never before, the new Pronghorn provides a powerful tool to the elk hunter that will help them find their advantage in the field with its lighter, faster and stronger design.

“Danner is passionate about the connection people have with the outdoors and the complete hunting experience,” said Bryan Finke, Director of Marketing at Danner Inc. “The brand is committed to providing the best quality standards in product and working with organizations that share those high standards in the industry. Supporting the mission of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation allows us the chance to ensure the legacy of the sport and align with a quality partner in conservation.”

“Elk hunters require quality and durable gear. The Danner brand and products continue to exceed expectations of elk hunters time and time again,” said Steve Decker, VP of Marketing for RMEF. “The RMEF is proud to welcome Danner as our newest major partner in ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat.”

The relationship will include a media schedule including print and broadcast advertising, leveraging a mutual relationship with accomplished outdoorsman, Cameron Hanes. Danner will also be active participants in the 2010 Great Elk Tour with activation points at retail and key consumer events throughout the year, as well as supporting promotions that drive the mission of RMEF into the future.

About Danner, Inc.
Danner designs and manufactures a complete line of innovative, functional and performance footwear for experts in the work and outdoor markets. With a commitment to craftsmanship, Danner continues to build on the Company’s 76-year heritage of making premium-quality hiking, hunting, occupational, uniform and rugged casual footwear for men and women. Located in Portland, Ore., Danner is a wholly owned subsidiary of LaCrosse Footwear, Inc. For more information, please visit www.danner.com.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.6 million acres-a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

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Danner Boots Announces Partnership In Conservation with RMEF

Mule Deer Foundation

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –-(AmmoLand.com)- The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) and Sportsmen for Fish & Wildlife (SFW) put together a record-breaking event for this year’s Western Hunting & Conservation Exposition (WHCE) held Feb. 11-14, 2010, at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City, Utah. Exhibit hall attendance exceeded 25,000, and daily seminars and evening events were at capacity, entertaining well over 3,500 people.

The sale of more than 60 big-game tags raised over $10 million for wildlife conservation. The Utah Statewide Mule Deer tag brought an all-time high of $260,000, and the Arizona Statewide Mule Deer tag sold for a record $177,000. Hunters had the opportunity to purchase or enter drawings for tags worth over $2 million.

SFW President Byron Bateman said, “Hunters are conservationists. They’re the ones putting the money on the ground. I think we’ve demonstrated that here.”

Over 350 exhibitors displayed and sold products at the Expo. Attendance and sales were so good that next year’s hall is already half sold out. According to many vendors this was one of the most successful sports shows ever.

Keynote Speakers for the event were Wayne LaPierre, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rifle Association (NRA), and Larry Potterfield, Founder and President of Midway USA. World-class entertainment featured Josh Turner, Jo Dee Messina, and Western Underground (Chris LeDoux’s band).

The USA Shooting Team was also involved with the Expo, and attendees had the opportunity to meet these great Olympic athletes up close. A one-of-a-kind USA Team long rifle was auctioned at the WHCE and raised $51,000 to benefit the Shooting Team.

MDF President and CEO Miles Moretti concluded, “This fourth annual event proved to be the best yet, setting records in both attendance and money raised for wildlife. Salt Lake City is the place to be for the hunter who wants to make a difference and help preserve our sport for future generations.”

Next year’s WHCE will be held Feb. 3-6, 2011.

The Mule Deer Foundation is a national non-profit 501(c)3 organization, with over 12,000 members. MDF’s mission is to ensure the conservation of mule deer, black-tailed deer and their habitats. For information about MDF visit www.muledeer.org.

Sportsmen for Fish & Wildlife is a non-profit wildlife conservation organization of sportsmen members who are interested in preserving and increasing healthy, populations of wildlife throughout the Western United States. For information about SFW visit www.sfwsfh.org.

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Mule Deer Foundation & Sportsmen for Fish & Wildlife Raised Over $10 Million For Wildlife Conservation

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.—-(AmmoLand.com)- Two land transfers underway in Idaho are securing public hunting on over 1,500 acres of managed elk habitat—and helping build a special fund earmarked for more similar projects by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

RMEF’s Strategic Land Protection Fund, which began in 2009 with $1.5 million, is now over $3 million. The fund is used for acquiring vital but eminently threatened tracts, holding them until partnering state and federal agencies can accumulate funding, and then conveying them for permanent habitat protection and public access.

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission in late December authorized the Idaho Fish and Game Department to purchase two tracts offered by RMEF at about half of their appraised values. The agency will make four installments of $137,550 each.

“These monies, along with previous imbursements from other states as well as private donations, are building our Strategic Land Protection Fund to a level that makes RMEF well positioned for even broader conservation successes in 2010,” said Jack Blackwell, vice president of lands and conservation for RMEF.

On the Idaho projects, specifically, Blackwell explained, “Most often, while we’re holding land for future conveyance, our agency partners begin managing the habitat and opening the lands for public access. That’s how it worked with the Idaho Fish and Game Department and these latest projects in Idaho. Many public-land hunters in Idaho are already familiar with the quality of habitat and the amount of wildlife on these tracts.”

The first parcel borders the Tex Creek Wildlife Management Area in the Upper Snake River region. This tract is 700 acres, 380 in native habitat and 320 in dry cropland. The second parcel is 895 acres, all in native vegetation, bordering the Georgetown Summit Wildlife Management Area in the southeast region. Both areas include critical mule deer and elk winter range, as well as upland habitat.

The counties were notified in advance of the state’s intent to purchase, and Idaho Fish and Game Department will pay fees in lieu of taxes on both tracts.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.7 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

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Idaho Projects Secures Habitat, Hunter Access and More

Quail Forever

Morgan, Ala. –-(AmmoLand.com)- Bobwhite quail enthusiasts in Alabama have formed the nation’s newest Quail Forever chapter. Named North Alabama Quail Forever, more than 20 hunters and conservationists created the Morgan County-based group to become an active force in reestablishing quail habitat in the region.

As a Quail Forever chapter, the North Alabama group will utilize Quail Forever’s local approach to wildlife habitat conservation. Unlike other national conservation organizations, Quail Forever gives local Quail Forever chapters the ability to decide how 100 percent of their fundraised dollars are spent. This local control gives chapters and members the ability to make things happen for wildlife in their communities, while belonging to a national organization that gives wildlife and conservation a voice in Washington, D.C.

Already, the chapter has taken the initiative of contacting local wildlife management authorities to inquire about assisting with quail habitat projects. The Bankhead National Forest has 11,000 acres slated for quail restoration work as part of its Quail Initiative Program, and the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge has 1,200 acres in a quail habitat restoration program.

“With adequate support from our chapter, state programs and local wildlife officials, we can set the foundation needed to reestablish quail in Alabama,” said Kevin Terry, president of North Alabama Quail Forever.

Although the North Alabama Quail Forever chapter is primarily focused on establishing quail populations, the habitat projects stand to benefit many other species of wildlife. Those who are interested in the environment are encouraged to join the chapter.

“We have an ‘all inclusive’ focus in terms of our members,” said Terry. “Several of our members do not hunt, but know and understand that improved habitat is advantageous for many species. Our chapter is common ground to join together conservationists from all walks of life.”

As it sustains quail habitat, North Alabama Quail Forever looks to sustain quail conservationists. “Regardless of the progress, it is only sustainable with future Quail Forever members. We have several active youth members and plan to engage them in our chapter projects; this is an integral part of our mission.”

North Alabama Quail Forever

• Chapter leaders are Kelly Meeks, treasurer, from Decatur; and Jeff Selby, habitat chair, also from Decatur.
• Chapter planning benefit clays shoot for disabled vets and physically challenged youth, as well as first annual fundraising banquet – both to be held this spring.
• The chapter’s next meeting will be Tuesday, March 2, more info TBA.
• For more information about North Alabama Quail Forever, upcoming events and to become a member, contact Kevin Terry at 256-303-2229 and kevin_terry@bellsouth.net.

Quail Forever is the quail division of Pheasants Forever. Alabama is home to six Quail Forever chapters. For more information on Quail Forever in the state, contact Elsa Gallagher, Quail Forever regional wildlife biologist, at 660-277-DOGS and egallagher@quailforever.org.

For additional information please visit www.QuailForever.org

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Quail Forever Making North Alabama Sweet Home