Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The judges’ decisions are in: the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife’s first fishing and hunting photo contests each have first and second place winners and three honorable mentions.

Three judges – well-known professional photographer Kevin Fleming, and local photographers Tony Pratt and Freda Barrett, both DNREC employees – reviewed 53 fishing entries and 27 hunting entries, and then narrowed each category to the top five.

The contests specified that photographs must have been taken in Delaware and must depict youth participating in fishing or hunting activities. Judges were looking for photos that best portrayed “the promise of the future” as envisioned by the Division’s 2011 theme of “Celebrating 100 Years of Fish and Wildlife Conservation: Reflecting on the Past, Moving into the Future.”

“When we were judging the contest entries, we looked most importantly for photographs that portrayed our theme and ‘the promise of the future,’” said Ms. Barrett, who suggested the contest as part of the Division’s 100-year celebration. “We also considered technical criteria such as resolution, clarity, lighting and composition. Some entries fit the theme, but had flaws such as poor lighting, an undesirable background or out-of-focus. Our winners are crisp close ups of youth partaking in fishing or hunting activities.”

“We saw some very nice entries for a first-time contest, and the winners were all good,” said Mr. Fleming, adding, “I would encourage the Division of Fish & Wildlife to consider making this year’s special photo contest held on the anniversary of 100 years of fish and wildlife conservation an annual event – and in case they do, I hope more people will be encouraged to take their cameras with them on their outdoor Delaware adventures.”

Fishing contest winners are:

• First place: “Fishing with My Daddy,” toddler at Cape Henlopen, by Michele Reeder of Dover
• Second place: “Barefoot Basin,” Collins Pond, by Joey Melvin of Georgetown
• Honorable mention: Untitled photo of 8-year-old boy in waders holding big fish on White Clay Creek, by Brenda Rappa of Wilmington
• Honorable mention: “Got One,” 9-year-old boy fishing in Cedar Creek Mill Pond, by Kathy Sheldon of Lincoln
• Honorable mention: “Maddie Fishing Pic,” toddler fishing in Christina River, by James Brainard of New Castle

Hunting contest winners are:

• First place: Untitled photo of 5-year-old boy hunting at Broadkill Beach, by Tom Burke of Greenwood
• Second place: “Calling Them In,” 6-year-old boy hunting near Milton, by Amy Argo James of Milton
• Honorable mention: “Scanning the Skies,” teen boy hunting at Ted Harvey Wildlife Area near Dover, by Dave Sawicki of Magnolia
• Honorable mention: “Practice Makes Perfect,” 11-year-old girl hunting near Marydel, by Andrea Sergent of Marydel
• Honorable mention: Untitled photo of two 12-year-old boys hunting near Lincoln, by Joey Melvin of Georgetown

“When we announced these contests as part of our 100-year celebration, we wanted to feature images of young anglers and hunters in our hunting and fishing guides, since young Delawareans will become the next generation of Delaware conservationists. The response from our resident photographers more than met our expectations,” said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director David Saveikis.

“Moving into the next century of fish and wildlife conservation in Delaware, we are encouraged by the promise of the future represented by these photographs of young anglers and hunters enjoying the outdoors.”

The winning fishing photos will appear in the 2012 Delaware Fishing Guide, with Ms. Reeder’s first place photo on the cover and second place and honorable mention photos printed inside the guide. The fishing guide will be available online, at the DNREC license counter in Dover and at fishing license dealers statewide in March.

The winning hunting photos will appear in the 2012-2013 Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide, which is not yet in production. The hunting guide is due out in July and will be available online, at the DNREC license counter in Dover and at hunting license dealers statewide.

For more information about future Division photo contests, please visit www.fw.delaware.gov.

Russell Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- In 1911, when the first members of Delaware’s new Game and Fish Commission were appointed by the Governor and the state’s first game warden was hired, the state did not own wild lands for conservation purposes, the idea of educating the public on wildlife conservation was yet to take root, and few regulations were in place to properly manage the hunting and trapping of game animals.

However, within three years, the first Commissioners would list conservation, education and appropriate regulation among their recommendations – and these remain priorities today.

As the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife celebrates Delaware’s first 100 years of fish and wildlife conservation by reflecting on the past and moving into the future, here’s a closer look at how part of the old Board of Game and Fish Commissioners developed into today’s Wildlife Section.

In the history of Delaware wildlife conservation, several figures loom large, including Ted Harvey, Norman G. Wilder, and former Governor Russell Peterson – all familiar today from the wildlife areas that bear their names. Two of Gov. Peterson’s accomplishments in particular would shape the future of fish and wildlife conservation in Delaware. The first, in 1970, was the creation of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), which brought the state’s fish and wildlife-related functions together under the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife. The second, in 1971, was passage of the landmark Coastal Zone Act, which set the standard for other states and established the regulations that continue today to protect Delaware’s precious and fragile coastline from uncontrolled industrial and commercial development.

“Today we continue to build upon the strong foundation laid by generations of conservation pioneers to preserve and restore Delaware’s rich ecological diversity for the benefit of wildlife and all Delawareans,” said DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara. “Through our numerous habitat restoration efforts, including the Delaware Bayshore Initiative and the Nanticoke River watershed, we will honor past successes and leave our own legacy of stewardship and conservation for the enrichment of current and future generations.”

After working for the Commission since 1948, Wilder became the first director of Delaware’s fish and wildlife agency in 1957 and began actively pursuing the acquisition of wild lands. A few early acquisitions before Wilder’s directorship included the first state-owned wildlife area, Petersburg Game Management Refuge (now Norman G. Wilder Wildlife Area), established in 1941; Assawoman Wildlife Area lands, which were transferred from the federal government in 1945; and the C&D Canal Wildlife Area established by agreement with the U.S. Army in 1950. Wilder saw the need to acquire more lands for conservation and recreation purposes.

“[Norman Wilder] knew that if lands were going to be set aside for future generations of Delawareans to hunt, fish and play on, it had to be done as expeditiously as possible… He had a far-sighted vision, and spot-on, especially with regard to wetlands, the heart and soul of the magnificent Delaware estuary,” recalled Tony Florio, who was hired as a wildlife technician by Wilder and later became Wildlife Section administrator, working 40 years for the state agency that became the Division of Fish and Wildlife.

In 1961, Ted Harvey made his mark on land conservation efforts by founding a private, non-profit conservation group, Delaware Wild Lands, for the purpose of protecting coastal areas via land purchase, legislation and education. Over the years, Delaware Wild Lands has acquired, or partnered with the state and other organizations to acquire thousands of acres statewide, including the 10,000-acre Great Cypress Swamp conservation area in Sussex County.

A key acquisition and one of the largest was a 4,000-acre, seven-tract Kent County purchase including the Ted Harvey Wildlife Area, negotiated by the Division and Delaware Wild Lands in 1979, and turned over to state-administered public ownership to help tie together a missing piece in protected coastal habitat. Today, with more than 60,000 acres of wild lands owned and managed by the state through the Division of Fish and Wildlife, the emphasis on linking lands and habitats by acquiring missing pieces continues.

Early efforts at educating and informing the public included a 1931 program designed to stir interest in game bird hunting in which school children hatched and raised ring-necked pheasants; a 1933 film entitled “Hunting and Fishing: An Asset to Delaware,” which was shown to community groups and at various events; a natural science camp for teachers in summer 1942; and the first issue of the Delaware Conservationist (now Outdoor Delaware) in 1957. The statewide Delaware Hunter Education program began in 1970, and a facility dedicated to the program, the Ommelanden Hunter Education Center and Range in New Castle, opened in 1981. Ommelanden’s offerings currently include free firearms safety instruction and public-use ranges for rifle, pistol, shotgun and archery target practice.

Scientific research was a key function early in the history of Delaware’s fish and wildlife agency, from a test project planting pond vegetation to supply ducks with food in 1930 to early efforts at wildlife management and habitat restoration in the 1950s to the highly successful wild turkey restoration project in the 1980s. Today, the Division continues to manage game animals as well as non-game wildlife and native plants through the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, established in 1986.

Wildlife Section biologists perform a wide range of duties and research, from monitoring shorebird populations to banding owls to counting bald eagles to working with endangered and rare animals and plants, to tracking avian influenza in waterfowl, white nose syndrome in bats and chronic wasting disease in deer. White-tailed deer and wild turkey, both popular game species in Delaware today, are among the section’s significant species restoration success stories.

Today, applied science continues to be the basis by which the Division manages wildlife populations.

From estimating deer densities in order to maintain their populations within ecological and social carrying capacities to determining where suitable roosting sites exist or need to exist for migrating red knot populations, wildlife management decisions are based on data collected from carefully designed studies and through analysis. This basis on science is directly linked to the Division’s ability to manage sustainable populations of wildlife, allowing some species to be recreationally harvested through regulated hunting and trapping. As Delaware’s expanding human population and its needs put increasingly more pressure on wildlife and the habitat it depends on, the need to continue making wildlife management decisions based on science will become increasingly more important.

Since the Delaware Legislature granted regulatory powers over freshwater fish and resident game to the Game and Fish Commissioners in 1953, the state’s fish and wildlife agency has been responsible for planning, drafting, enforcing and modifying state wildlife regulations. Funding for many programs has come from a variety of sources in addition to the state, including federal aid from the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration fund through the Pittman-Robertson Act, authorized by the state legislature in 1938; the Delaware Duck Stamp program, started in 1980; hunting licenses – which in 1915 cost a resident hunter $1; nongame wildlife and endangered species tax check-off fund – which has dwindled from contributions of more than $80,000 per year in the 1980s in Delaware to less than $15,000 annually today as tax payers have more and more check-off programs to choose from; federal endangered species funding which also helps support management of federally listed plants; and most recently the state’s diversity of wildlife and habitats have benefited from funding via the federal State Wildlife Grant Program administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“We are looking ahead to our next century, in which we hope to make further progress managing our game wildlife, nurturing our endangered and rare species, restoring and connecting our wildlife habitat areas, learning more about the animals and plants with which we share our habitat, adapting to sea level rise and climate change and providing recreational opportunities that bring residents and visitors closer to our natural world,” said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director David Saveikis.

This history of the Delaware Fisheries Section is part of a series of press releases issued in honor of the 100th anniversary of fish and wildlife conservation in Delaware in 2011.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- This Saturday, Nov. 5, the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife has announced a statewide deer hunting day for youth hunters ages 10 to 15 and non-ambulatory disabled hunters on both public and private lands.

To promote youth hunting, the Division is waiving blind fees for youth using Division deer stands or blinds on youth hunting days.

Youth hunters must be accompanied by a licensed or exempt adult hunter age 21 or older, but the companion may not possess a firearm. Young hunters must be of sufficient physical size and strength to safely handle a firearm, and may also hunt on regular season days, accompanied by an adult. Youth hunters age 13 to 15 must have completed a hunter education course, possess a certification card and purchase a Delaware junior hunting license. Normal bag limits and regulations apply, and all deer taken must be registered.

On State Wildlife Areas that require a lottery drawing for available deer stands, the drawing will be held 1.5 hours before legal shooting time. Participating hunters should plan to arrive in time to sign up before the drawing. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge also will hold a lottery for any unfilled stands at the refuge and nearby Woodland Beach Wildlife Area. Hunters should plan to arrive two hours before legal shooting time to sign up for the lottery.

For more information, check the 2011-2012 Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide, available at hunting license dealers statewide or online at www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw.

Specialized blinds/stands and hunting locations as well as special hunting permits also are available for disabled hunters. For more information, call 302-739-9912.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife also would like to remind hunters headed out on Saturday to take their cameras, as the youth deer hunting day is a great opportunity for taking photos to be entered in the Delaware Hunting Photo Contest. Sponsored by the Division as part of the celebration of 100 years of fish and wildlife conservation in Delaware, the contest is seeking photos of young Delaware hunters, with the winner to be published in next year’s Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Deadline for entries is Friday, Dec. 16. Information and entry forms are available on the Division’s website at www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw , the Fish and Wildlife Facebook page (search Delaware Fish & Wildlife) or requested by calling Amanda Belford at 302-739-9911, or email amanda.belford@state.de.us.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The deadline for the annual conservation poster contest sponsored by the Sussex, Kent and New Castle Conservation Districts is fast approaching on Friday, Nov. 4.

The theme this year is “Forests for People: More Than You Can Imagine!” Posters will be judged in the following grade categories: K-1, 2-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. First, second and third place winners in each category will receive a prize valued at $50, $25 and $15 respectively.

The annual conservation poster contest provides kindergarten through 12th grade students an opportunity to convey their thoughts about soil, water and related natural resource issues through art. It also highlights the educational outreach efforts of conservation districts and their state associations, auxiliaries and agencies. The contest follows the annual Stewardship theme which is sponsored by the National Association of Conservation Districts.

This year’s theme, “Forests for People: More Than You Can Imagine,” reminds us that we all have a connection to the trees in the forest. Forests play a critical role in providing clean water and healthy wildlife habitat, as well as jobs for our citizens and products that we use every day. Forests also offer us a place to take a peaceful walk or pitch a tent or hold a picnic. And they provide children with the perfect atmosphere to learn about the great outdoors.

For more information and educational resources about the theme, please visit

http://www.nacdnet.org/education/contests/poster/2011/rules_and_resources.html.

Each of the conservation districts will submit their first place posters in each category for judging at the state level. State level winners will then be submitted to the national contest. Last year, the winning Delaware poster for the 10-12 category went on to win first place in the 10-12 category in the national contest. In the event that an insufficient amount of posters are received, the county level contests will be eliminated and all posters will be judged at the state level.

The name of the student, teacher, school and student’s grade level must be written on the back of the poster. Posters must be hand-delivered or mailed flat in time to meet the deadline to the conservation district in the county in which the student resides.

Addresses for Delaware’s conservation district offices are as follows: New Castle Conservation District, 2430 Old County Road, Newark, DE 19702; Kent Conservation District, 800 Bay Road, Suite 2, Dover, DE 19901; and Sussex Conservation District, 21315 Berlin Road, Unit 4, Georgetown, DE 19947.

For more information, please contact Michelle Jacobs at 302-739-9135 or email Michelle.Jacobs@state.de.us.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Have you taken a great photo of a young hunter in action?

If so, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife invites you to enter the Delaware Hunting Photo Contest being held as part of the Division’s celebration of 100 years of fish and wildlife conservation in Delaware.

The winning photo will be featured on the cover or inside the 2012-2013 Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide.

“We are hoping photographers from all over the state will come out for this contest and share some of their best images with us,” said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director David Saveikis. “As we move into a new century of fish and wildlife conservation in Delaware, we’d like to feature the faces of young hunters in our hunting guide – especially since young Delawareans will become leaders of the next generation of Delaware conservationists.”

The contest is open to Delaware residents of all ages, with a maximum of three entries per person. Entries will be accepted now through Friday, Dec. 16. To be eligible, photographs must depict youth participating in hunting activities and must have been taken in Delaware. A judging panel comprised of DNREC staff and professional photographers will be looking for photos that best portray “the promise of the future” as envisioned by the Division’s theme of “Celebrating 100 Years of Fish and Wildlife Conservation: Reflecting on the Past, Moving into the Future.” Judges also will be looking at technical criteria including resolution, clarity and composition.

Entries may be mailed to the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, Attention: Amanda Belford, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901. All entries must be postmarked or delivered by Friday, Dec. 16, and must include a completed and signed entry form and photo release form. Information and forms are available on the Division’s website at www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/ , the Fish and Wildlife Facebook page (search Delaware Fish & Wildlife) or requested by calling Amanda Belford at 302-739-9911, or email amanda.belford@state.de.us.

Photos must be 8 x 10 paper prints, with no frames or mats and no markings or signatures on the front or back. Normal processing of RAW image files, minimal cropping and minor adjustments to color and contrast are acceptable. HDR and focus stacking are permitted as long as manipulation is disclosed upon entry. Nothing should be added to the image or, aside from dust spots, taken away. The entrant must hold all rights to the photograph and must not infringe on the rights of any other person. Images that involve unlawful harm to wildlife or damage to the environment should not be submitted and will not be accepted. Entries will not be returned.

The Division’s Fishing Photo Contest is also still accepting entries through Nov. 16.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- At DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Annual Acorn Collection Day, 163 volunteers joined with agency biologists to collect 231 pounds of acorns that will be scattered in reforestation areas to establish new wildlife habitat.

In addition, 122 pounds were collected by landowners on their properties and donated to the Division.

“Our collection totals were a little lower this year, but it is not uncommon to have ‘boom and bust’ years for acorn production. We are fortunate to continue to have such a great volunteer turn-out at this event each year and we are pleased with this year’s collection,” said Lynne Staub, Division of Fish and Wildlife coordinator for the event.

“With the assistance of collection day volunteers and donations from landowners, this year’s collection was a success, with a final count totaling 353 pounds of acorns. The acorns will be used in reforestation efforts at the Blackbird Reserve and Cedar Swamp Wildlife Areas. These areas provide valuable habitat – food and shelter – for many native wildlife species,” Staub added.

Volunteers collected acorns from areas at each site where seedlings would not generally be able to grow, including mowed areas along trail edges, open spaces and roadsides. The acorns will be scattered in reforestation areas.

This year marked the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s 7th annual event, with more than 3,713 pounds of acorns collected since Acorn Collection Day was introduced in 2005.

This year’s collection day was made possible by the support of volunteers from throughout the state and by assistance from DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation – Rockford Park and Trap Pond State Park, and DelDOT – Smyrna Rest Area, for the collection sites.

For more information on volunteer opportunities with the Division of Fish and Wildlife, visit www.fw.delaware.gov/volunteers or contact Lynne Staub, 302-735-3600 or Lynne.Staub@state.de.us

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife maintains specially constructed duck blinds and deer stands on many wildlife areas for hunters with disabilities, as well as providing other accommodations.

To ensure that hunters with permanent disabilities have preference for use of facilities intended for them, the Division is now requiring hunters to provide documentation of permanent disability.

When documentation is received, the Division will issue a Certified Hunter with Disabilities Card for use at hunting check stations.

Documentation of permanent disability can be provided in several ways. Hunters can obtain an application form from the Division to be completed by a licensed physician. A document issued by a Federal Agency such as the Veteran’s Administration or Social Security Administration showing permanent disability also may be used, as well as the Interior Department’s Federal Interagency Access Pass for disabled persons. A third option would be to provide a document issued by a state agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency, which attests that the applicant has been deemed eligible to receive vocational rehabilitation benefits or services as a result of a medically determined permanent disability.

“Our intention is to provide a better level of service to those with permanent disabilities,” said Wildlife Section Administrator Greg Moore. “We want to encourage these hunters to continue their tradition of hunting and make it easier for them to access these facilities.”

The program will officially begin Oct. 7 with the opening of the October muzzleloader deer season.

“We know that there may be hunters who will have not heard about the card requirement by that date,” said Ken Reynolds, Program Manager with the Wildlife Section.

“If they come out for their first hunt without a card, they will be allowed to participate, but they must obtain the card before their next hunt.”

For more information about the program or to obtain the application form for doctor’s certification, hunters should contact Ken Reynolds at 302-735-3600.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Delaware hunters will be able to start honing their wing shooting skills on Thursday, Sept. 1 with the opening of the mourning dove and resident Canada goose seasons.

On Saturday, Sept. 10, hunters can start adding teal to their bag. The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife offers many early season hunting opportunities on its wildlife areas throughout the state.

In some locations, hunting hours may be more restrictive due to other activities taking place on the wildlife areas.

New Castle County

Dove
In New Castle County, sunflower fields have been planted at the Cedar Swamp Wildlife Area on the Rocks, Guestford and Bell tracts. The sunflower field at the Rocks Tract has been relocated this year to approximately100 yards further down the driveway past the old field. Hunting spots are chosen by a lottery held at noon at the Cedar Swamp check station located on Collins Beach Road. Hunting days will be Thursday, Sept. 1, Labor Day Monday, Sept. 5, and all Saturdays in September. Hunting hours are 1 to 5 p.m. All other areas of Cedar Swamp outside of zones 1, 2, 8 and 9 are open daily to dove hunting according to all state and federal regulations.

The Baxter Tract of the Augustine Wildlife Area has one sunflower field open throughout dove season with no special permits required. Shooting hours for this field are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. All other tracts of the Augustine and C&D Canal Wildlife Areas are open to dove hunting throughout the season with no special permits required.

Resident Canada Geese
Resident Canada goose hunting will be available on the C&D Canal Wildlife Area and on and around Reedy Island in the Delaware River. No special permits are required.

September Teal
Eleven blinds on the Port Penn Tract of the Augustine Wildlife Area will be open for the early teal season. These blinds are available by permit only through lottery drawings held at the Augustine check station at the end of North Congress Street in Port Penn. Lotteries are held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday with drawings taking place 1 ½ hours before legal shooting time throughout the season.

Kent County

Dove
Kent County state wildlife areas offer several dove hunting opportunities with both lottery and non-lottery hunts. Lottery permit hunts are available at the Milford Neck Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Penuel Tract, the Norman G. Wilder WMA Caulk Tract and the Ted Harvey WMA Logan Lane and Buckaloo tracts. Permits to hunt the sunflower fields on these areas are issued through a noon lottery at the Little Creek check station on Route 9/Bayside Drive just south of Little Creek. These areas are hunted on opening day, Labor Day and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in September only.

For those not interested in the lottery hunts, dove hunting opportunities are available at both the Blackiston and Norman G. Wilder wildlife areas where sunflower fields have been planted. These sites are open all days of the dove season with hunting hours from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.

Resident Canada Geese
Several Kent County wildlife areas have resident Canada goose hunting opportunities. At the Milford Neck WMA, all of the waterfowl hunting blind sites will be open on a first come-first served basis. In addition, Blackiston, Norman G. Wilder (Petersburg and Willow Grove Tracts), Milford Neck and Little Creek (Davy Crockett Tract) will be open for September goose hunting with no restriction to blinds or blind sites. Additionally, at the Woodland Beach and Roberts tract permit-required blinds, resident goose hunting will be allowed while hunting September teal.

September Teal
Daily lotteries for blinds will be held at the Woodland Beach WMA for marsh blinds, blinds on the Taylor’s Gut impoundment and the McKay Tract. At the Ted Harvey WMA, Roberts Tract and river blinds 32-44 will be available through a daily lottery at the Little Creek WMA. Lotteries will be held 1 ½ hours before legal shooting time at the Woodland Beach Check Station and 2 hours before legal shooting time at the Little Creek Check Station. Other wildlife areas open for teal hunting include Milford Neck WMA, and the Little Creek Davey Crockett Tract. All teal hunting on the above areas will be every day of the September season from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.

Sussex County

Dove
Dove hunting on managed fields will be available on the Assawoman and Nanticoke wildlife areas. At Assawoman, permits will be issued from the check station beginning at noon on the first Saturday in September with hunting hours from 1-6 p.m. Dove fields are located on the Muddy Neck portion of the Short Tract. Hunting on this area will be on Saturdays only during the month of September. Hunters will be hunting over sunflowers in 2011. Dove hunting will be allowed on other unmanaged areas with a permit.

At the Nanticoke WMA, dove hunting will begin on opening day, Sept. 1. Corn and sunflowers are planted at the George Adams Field and the Dirt Pit Fields. No permits or check out are required and there are no limits on the number of hunters. Dove hunting is allowed on other unmanaged areas without a permit.

All other wildlife areas in Sussex County are open for dove hunting with no permits required.

Resident Canada Geese
No resident goose hunts are planned for Sussex County on state wildlife areas. No resident goose flocks are present on areas accessible for hunting.

September Teal
Prime Hook State Wildlife Area is open to teal hunting this year. Hunting days are Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. State blinds 1-8 will be open. Permits are free and will be issued on a first come-first served basis from the tag board on Prime Hook State Wildlife Area at Little Neck Road. All federal blinds are closed, and no drawings or check out will occur. No other Sussex County state wildlife areas fall within the September teal season zones.

General Hunting Information for the 2011-2012 seasons:

September season dates are:

• Doves: Sept. 1-Oct. 1
• Resident Canada Geese: Sept. 1 –24
• Teal: Sept. 10 –28.

Non-toxic shot must be used for all dove hunting on state wildlife areas during the month of September.

In addition to a Delaware hunting license, teal, dove and goose hunters will need to have registered with the Federal Harvest Information Program (HIP) to get a registration number. Hunters can call toll free 1-855-335-4868 or go to www.dnrec.delaware.gov/delhunt to register for an HIP number.

If hunting from a blind that was selected through a lottery, all hunters in the blind are required to have the $20 annual blind permit that can be purchased where hunting licenses are sold. This permit is waived for hunters participating in Division of Fish and Wildlife-designated youth hunting days.

Hunting maps for state wildlife areas are available online at www.fw.delaware.gov or by calling 302-739-9912.

A legislative change that hunters should be aware of this year is that businesses licensed to operate as a commercial game preserve may now operate on Sundays. This change only applies to for-profit businesses and not to licensed shooting preserves that release game solely for hunting purposes.

For additional information, hunters should consult the Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide and the Delaware Migratory Game Bird Season Summary. The Division would like to note that Sunday, Oct. 2 is not a deer hunting day as listed in the print version of the guide. The Division apologizes for any confusion this error may cause. It has been corrected in the online version of the Guide that can be viewed at www.fw.delaware.gov.

Delaware Honors Georgetown Farming Brothers & Longtime Conservation Professional As 2011 Wetland Warriors

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

HARRINGTON, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Today at the Delaware State Fair, Governor Jack Markell and DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara honored three men for their efforts on behalf of conserving and restoring Delaware wetlands.

“Wetlands contribute to the quality of life in Delaware by providing storage for floodwaters and protecting us from coastal storms, providing habitat for wildlife species, and purifying water by removing pollutants and nutrients from runoff. Efforts to protect and restore wetlands are critical to enable the continuation of the economically valuable services provided by wetlands,” said Secretary O’Mara.

“We are proud to recognize this year’s Wetland Warriors for their important contributions to our state.”

The Wetland Warrior Award, now in its fourth year, is presented annually to a citizen, organization, business or other group that has demonstrated exemplary efforts to benefit Delaware wetlands in the areas of outreach and education, monitoring and assessment, or restoration and protection. This year, three men are being honored as the 2011 Wetland Warriors.

Landowner brothers Mark and Charles Workman are fourth generation Sussex County farmers who operate almost 3,000 acres of cropland, with corn, soybeans and wheat as their primary crops. In 2010, they restored 26 acres of forested wetlands on their farm near Georgetown through the USDA’s Wetland Reserve Program (WRP). The hydrology restoration of the woodland complimented the existing shallow water area for wildlife they had installed with assistance from Partners for Fish and Wildlife and 11 acres of native warm season grasses installed through the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The Workmans are planning to install several additional shallow water areas for wildlife this year on the same farm through the CRP.

When the Workman brothers first applied to the WRP in 2007, they had already begun to adopt conservation practices for their farming operation, noted Jayme Arthurs, Wetland Reserve Program manager with the USDA. “Mark and Charles Workman balance crop production with conservation practices, and they regularly do both in concert with each other,” said Arthurs, who nominated the Workmans for the Wetland Warrior Award because as farmers, hunters and avid outdoorsmen, they enjoy and support wildlife habitat as an ongoing commitment.

“Mark and Charles Workman’s volunteer participation in restoration programs available to landowners is a superb example of citizens making a difference. In Delaware, forested wetlands are the most vulnerable to loss due to conversion to other land uses. The work they have conducted on their property will benefit wildlife, water quality and flood control while providing carbon storage helping to mitigate climate change,” said Rebecca Rothweiler, DNREC Wetlands Team.

To the Workmans, protecting and conserving our natural resources simply goes hand-in-hand with their lives and livelihood. “We’re outdoors people, and we care about wildlife and we care about the Bay, and we like to hunt and fish and eat crabs,” said Mark Workman.

Ecologist Wayne Lehman of Dover is an accomplished conservation professional who has championed a number of wetland restoration projects throughout Kent County, where he is a regional wildlife manager with the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife. Since 1992, Lehman has led projects that created 170 acres of shallow water wetland areas distributed throughout several wildlife management areas under his supervision: Blackiston, Norman G. Wilder, Ted Harvey, Milford Neck, Little Creek, Woodland Beach and the Fortney and Urban Tract. These wetlands provide critical habitat to a variety of wetland wildlife species many of which are listed as species of conservation concern.

At Blackiston Wildlife Area near Clayton, for example, Lehman was instrumental in working with a number of partners to create and restore freshwater wetland complexes on marginal agricultural lands. These restored wetlands help with nutrient runoff and improve water quality in a watershed that flows into the Chesapeake Bay.

“Wayne has an easy going and non-confrontational style about him that has served both him and DNREC well when explaining to landowners the benefits of his wetland restoration work. As a landowner in this area, I have benefited from these projects and Wayne’s technical assistance. He is both a warrior and ambassador for wetland protection, education and restoration in Delaware,” said Andy Manus of Lehman’s nomination.

“It’s really rewarding to take poorly drained, marginal farmland that doesn’t produce crops well and doesn’t really provide anything for wildlife and create areas that are highly diverse in wildlife,” Lehman said of his work. “These areas also make a valuable contribution to improved water quality for the watersheds that link to the Delaware and Chesapeake bays,” he added.

Next year’s call for nominations will be posted next spring on the Delaware Wetlands website, www.dnrec.delaware.gov/Admin/DelawareWetlands.

Cows To Help Improve Marsh Habitat At Brandywine Creek State Park

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- In an effort to restore the Freshwater Marsh Nature Preserve within Brandywine Creek State Park, DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation will borrow two cows from a Delaware farm to graze the area and help reduce the number of invasive plants.

The two Belted Galloway cows, from Belted Galloway Cows of Centerville, will be on loan for seven to eight weeks beginning later this month. They will graze a five-acre fenced area in the park’s nature preserve.

“The cows are being used for prescribed grazing, or restoration,” said Rob Line, Environmental Stewardship program manager, with the Division of Parks and Recreation. “The Belted Galloways are an ancient Scottish breed used to eating coarse grasses, which is why they will work so well on a site like this,” Line said.

The project is a partnership among Delaware State Parks, which owns the land, DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Natural Heritage program scientists, who will help monitor vegetation changes at the site, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which provided the $23,500 funding to build the fence.

“This is new for Delaware, but not new for marsh restoration projects throughout the Northeast,” continued Line. “Very often, sheep, goats and other cow breeds are utilized for prescribed grazing.” Historic records show that dairy cows grazed the area during the 1940s.

The cows will suppress invasive plants – especially reed canary grass among others - by eating and crushing them since the weight of the cows breaks up the root mat. The black and white cows weigh approximately 1,200 pounds each.

“Their grazing will be beneficial to Delaware’s native plants and animals, including rare species that are currently being compromised by the invasives,” Line said.

The cows will arrive after the fence is completed, expected by the end of June. Plans are for the cows to be used for seven to eight weeks during spring and summer months for the next few years. DNREC will monitor the marsh to determine how much grazing will be needed from year to year.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- A four- year, ongoing investigation into the theft of a bronze statue memorializing DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife conservationist Harry Schellenger, who drowned in 2003 while inspecting duck blinds at the Assawoman Wildlife Area, has resulted in the arrest of a Frankford man.

Fish & Wildlife Enforcement followed up on countless leads and tips since the eagle statue, paid for by Mr. Schellenger’s family, co-workers and friends, was stolen from the Mulberry Landing area of the wildlife refuge where Mr. Schellenger, then 53, drowned while attempting to retrieve a boat that had drifted out into the water.

After a suspect surfaced in the theft through a tip in 2010, Fish & Wildlife Enforcement obtained a warrant for the arrest of Douglas R. Powell, 27. Delaware State Police stopped and held Mr. Powell until Fish & Wildlife Enforcement took him into custody. He was arraigned on one charge of felony theft and an additional charge of criminal mischief for allegedly spray painting graffiti on the statue’s base, as well as the restroom facilities in the wildlife management area.

Mr. Powell pled not guilty at his arraignment and was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution after failing to post the $750 bail imposed by the court.

Fish & Wildlife Enforcement continues its efforts to recover the eagle statue, which was dedicated in 2007 by then Governor Ruth Ann Minner; anyone with information on its whereabouts is asked to call 1-800-292-3030.

Mr. Schellenger, with his white hair and beard a well-known figure on the Delaware Bay to both watermen and river pilots, had asked that his ashes be spread at the mouth of the Bay he treasured. The eagle memorial erected at the wildlife management area “was the special place (his) family came to commune with Harry, much the same as many would visit the graveside of a loved one,” his brother-in-law, Jack Henriksen, said at the time of the theft of the statue. A $2,000 reward was offered for its recovery.

In other noteworthy enforcement cases:

• A Bridgeville man, Victor J. Maggioli, 53, was charged with boating violations after he was spotted and stopped by enforcement officers for speeding through a no-wake zone on the Assawoman Canal. During inspection, F&W agents determined that Mr. Maggioli’s boat had not been registered since 2007. He was charged with operating an unregistered motor vessel and one count of excessive speed.
• A Swarthmore, Pa., man, Edward G. Loughead, 44, was cited with a voluntary assessment for two counts of a child under age 12 not wearing a personal flotation device. F&W enforcement agents patrolling the C&D Canal observed two recreational vessels rafted together and drifting on the canal. The agents then saw the operator of one of the boats hurriedly putting life jackets on two small children. After boarding the vessel, they determined that Mr. Loughead had put adult-sized PFDs on the children. He was told to outfit them with proper-fitting life jackets, then given the fine.
• Two Laurel men, Jesse E. Steen, 28, and Edward M. Steen, 51, were found with loaded weapons in their vehicles after Fish & Wildlife enforcement agents responded to reports of gunshots off Trap Pond Road and of lights seen after dark in a field where deer were grazing earlier in the evening. A Fish & Wildlife agent used a 4-wheel-drive patrol car to gain access to field, at which time he apprehended both men after spotting firearms in their two vehicles. The weapons were secured and collected as evidence. Another Fish & Wildlife agent and additional Delaware State Police officers were called to the scene when the suspects became unruly. Both Edward and Jesse Steen were issued a voluntary assessment for one count of possession of a loaded weapon in a motor vehicle, after which they appeared in Justice of the Peace Court #3 in Georgetown and were fined $50 and associated costs after pleading guilty at their arraignment.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- For the eighth straight year, Delaware’s wild turkey season has set a new harvest record – bringing more prominence to one of the state’s most successful wildlife restoration programs as it coincides with DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife’s celebrating its first century of conservation service.

The spring wild turkey season tallied 487 birds, surpassing last year’s harvest by more than 100 gobblers, and included a 25½-pound tom shot by a first-time turkey hunter that was the largest in the state this year.

“The turkey harvest really started climbing in 2004 and we have experienced a remarkable 350 percent increase in just eight years,” said Fish & Wildlife game biologist Matt DiBona. “While we can’t predict what our maximum harvest level might be, we feel that the turkey population is growing, along with hunter interest, so there might be more record seasons to come.”

A number of nice gobblers were recorded this year, the largest the 25½-pound tom taken by Jamie West of Milton.

“I talked to Jamie a couple of weeks after the season, and he was still pretty excited about his accomplishment on his first time out,” said Fish & Wildlife program manager Ken Reynolds. “I think Jamie’s now a committed turkey hunter.”

With Delaware hunters permitted to take only one turkey per season, almost 500 hunters scored with the big birds.

Rob Gano of Frankford took the turkey with the longest beard at 16-1/16 inches. Jay Hastings of Delmar had the longest spur lengths with a matched set measuring 1-13/16 inches each.The top overall scoring bird as measured using the National Wild Turkey Federation formula was taken by Mark Fenimore of Clayton. This system takes into account weight, total spur length and total beard length. Mr. Fenimore’s bird weighed 23 lb. 7 oz., had a total spur length of 2-1/16 inches and had five beards with a total length of 39-3/16 inches for a score of 122.4375 points.

Birds were harvested in 16 of the 17 management zones in the state but several areas stood out as turkey “hotspots.” Zones 4, 6, and 11 accounted more than a third – 38 percent – of the total statewide harvest. Zone 1, which is New Castle County north of the Canal, was the only zone where no birds were taken.

Biologists weren’t surprised to find that nine in 10 birds were taken on private land. But given the limited amount of public land in Delaware and the limited number of turkey-hunting permits available, hunters also did well on state-managed property. Fifty-one birds were bagged on public lands, another new record. Redden State Forest, the Midlands Wildlife Area and the Norman G. Wilder Wildlife Area were the top three producing sites. Birds were also taken on the following wildlife areas: Assawoman, Nanticoke, Marshy Hope, Milford Neck, Little Creek, Cedar Swamp, Blackiston and Ted Harvey.

With the Delaware Game and Fish Commission having been established in 1911, the Division of Fish & Wildlife is now celebrating 100 years of fish and wildlife conservation.

“There have been many noteworthy conservation accomplishments during this century, and the restoration of the wild turkey definitely ranks high among them,” said Greg Moore, Wildlife Section administrator. “We look forward to having this magnificent game bird around for many years to come.”

For hunters planning ahead, Delaware’s 2012 turkey season will run from April 14 – May 12, with the special youth and disabled hunter day set for April 7. Also: a reminder for hunters aiming to pursue wild turkey for the first time in Delaware that a one-day turkey hunter education class is required – for more information about upcoming classes, please call 302-735-3600.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The deadline to submit nominations for DNREC’s 2011 Young Environmentalist of the Year Awards has been extended to Wednesday, June 15.

Nominations must be based on actions or projects that have taken place or are in progress and will be completed between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.

“If you are a teacher, youth group leader, advisor, classmate, parent or friend of a Delaware student who is involved in a project that benefits our environment, we want to hear about that student from you so we can recognize them for their efforts,” said Joanna Wilson, awards program coordinator.

Nominations will be accepted between Sunday, May 1 and Wednesday, June 15, 2011. A winner will be chosen from each of the following categories:

• Elementary for students in grades 1-4
• Middle School for students in grades 5-8
• High School for students in grades 9-12

The Young Environmentalist program honors Delaware students whose actions have resulted in the protection, restoration or enhancement of Delaware’s natural resources. Judges will look for innovative projects that increase public awareness and demonstrate environmental ethics and stewardship.

Past honorees have included students who have organized tree plantings, a household hazardous waste community collection day and school recycling programs; students who volunteered their time with the Delaware Nature Society, DNREC’s Piping Plover Monitoring Program, the DuPont Nature Center, the Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs program, and the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute, among other organizations; and a prolific poster artist, who worked to raise public awareness on a variety of environmental issues.

This is the 18th year for the award, which was established by DNREC colleagues and friends in honor of Dr. Edwin H. Clark II, who served as Secretary of DNREC from 1989 until 1993.

A $100 U.S. savings bond and a Delaware State Parks gift certificate will be awarded to each category winner in recognition of his or her contribution to the community. Winners will be honored in a special ceremony.

Nominations may be mailed to DNREC Public Affairs, attention Joanna Wilson/Jennifer Fitzsimmons, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901, dropped off in person at that address or emailed to Joanna.wilson@state.de.us.

Nomination forms are available on the DNREC website, www.dnrec.delaware.gov, by emailing the address above or by contacting the DNREC Public Affairs at 302-739-9902.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Wetlands are directly tied to our quality of life in Delaware, and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is seeking nominations for the 2011 Delaware Wetland Warrior Award that recognizes exemplary efforts to protect wetlands and the irreplaceable services they provide to all Delawareans.

Information on submitting a nomination can be found on DNREC’s Delaware Wetlands webpage, www.dnrec.delaware.gov/admin/delawarewetlands. Nominations must be submitted by June 10 to Wetland Outreach Specialist Rebecca Rothweiler at 302-739-9939 or Rebecca.Rothweiler@state.de.us.

The Wetland Warrior award is presented annually to a citizen, organization, business or other group that has demonstrated outstanding efforts to benefit Delaware wetlands through outreach and education, monitoring and assessment, or restoration and protection. The award will be presented by Governor Jack Markell and DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara on Governor’s Day, July 28, at the Delaware State Fair.

“The award recognizes efforts that help ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy high quality wetlands, biological diversity and clean water,” said DNREC Wetland Outreach Coordinator Rebecca Rothweiler. “Wetland Warriors are Delaware’s environmental heroes – who have worked tirelessly to slow wetland loss, helped restore degraded wetlands, preserved habitat, increased awareness of the value of wetlands and bolstered support for their protection.

Past Delaware Wetland Warriors have included:

2010: Peter Martin, Delaware Wild Lands Inc.
Peter Martin led efforts to restore the hydrology and plant communities of the largest freshwater wetland that remains in Delaware, the Great Cypress Swamp near the Maryland line in southern Sussex. Mr. Martin served as interim director of Delaware Wild Lands Inc., a non-profit charitable corporation dedicated to purchasing lands for preservation, management, and protection in Delaware.

2009: Al Rizzo, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Al Rizzo was instrumental in restoring thousands of acres of degraded wetlands and former wetlands, in educating the public on the value of wetlands and in training other scientists on innovative techniques.

2008: Indian River School District, Outdoor Education Center

Indian River School District Outdoor Education Center at Ingram Pond improved the future for protection of wetlands in Delaware by educating thousands of students on the value of wetlands, through hands-on monitoring for water quality, studying wildlife interactions and exploring ecosystem dynamics.

Delaware is covered by more than 320,000 acres of wetlands, about 25 percent of the state’s area. Wetlands protect lives and property from the impacts of floods and storms, filter pollutants and improve water quality, reduce erosion and provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife. Almost every part of our state is within one mile of a wetland – making wetland protection vital to our health and safety.

Over the centuries, Delaware’s wetlands have suffered tremendously. Since Delaware was first settled by Europeans in the 1600s, more than half of our original wetlands have been lost, and while much of wetland loss has occurred in years past, it is still happening today – and at an accelerated rate.

Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control studies indicate that over the past 15 years, more than 2,600 acres of wetlands were lost due to conversion to other land uses in Sussex County alone. This acreage is significant because in the previous 10-year period, the total statewide wetland loss was 1,900 acres. .

For more information, visit the Delaware Wetlands webpage, www.dnrec.delaware.gov/admin/DelawareWetlands.

The page includes links to wetland articles published in “Outdoor Delaware” magazine: Secretary O’Mara’s “Flooding and Wetlands in Delaware” (how wetlands can protect residents from flooding); and “Standing Up for Wetlands” (how landowners can enroll in voluntary wetland restoration programs).

The webpage also includes the Wetland Public Participation Guidebook, a comprehensive resource developed to inspire citizens to take actions to protect wetlands. Also featured is the latest information on wetland health, wetland loss studies, regulations, wetland impacts and how they can be prevented, and how the public can get involved with local land use decisions that could affect wetlands. A new wetlands video – Purify, Provide, and Protect that highlights wetland benefits – is also posted on the webpage.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- There’s still time to nominate that Delaware student who is working to make a difference for the environment for DNREC’s 2011 Young Environmentalist of the Year Awards.

Nominations must be based on actions or projects which have taken place between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.

Nominations will be accepted from teachers, classmates, parents, club or group leaders and others between Sunday, May 1 and Wednesday, June 1, 2011. A winner will be chosen from each of the following categories:

• Elementary for students in grades 1-4
• Middle School for students in grades 5-8
• High School for students in grades 9-12

The Young Environmentalist program honors Delaware students whose actions have resulted in the protection, restoration or enhancement of Delaware’s natural resources. Judges will look for innovative projects that increase public awareness and demonstrate environmental ethics and stewardship.

Past honorees have included students who have organized tree plantings, a household hazardous waste community collection day and school recycling programs; students who volunteered their time with the Delaware Nature Society, DNREC’s Piping Plover Monitoring Program, the DuPont Nature Center, the Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs program, and the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute, among other organizations; and a prolific poster artist, who worked to raise public awareness on a variety of environmental issues.

This is the 18th year for the award, which was established by DNREC colleagues and friends in honor of Dr. Edwin H. Clark II, who served as Secretary of DNREC from 1989 until 1993.

A $100 U.S. savings bond and a Delaware State Parks gift certificate will be awarded to each category winner in recognition of his or her contribution to the community. Winners will be honored in a special ceremony.

For more information, including nomination forms, please call Joanna Wilson/Beth Shockley, Public Affairs, at 302-739-9902, or visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The fawning season for white-tailed deer in Delaware has begun, with most fawns born during the last week of May through the first week of June.

With the season’s onset come the inevitable calls to DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife about “abandoned” fawns, and how “doing the right thing” means “saving” these newborns by bringing them home or to a wildlife rehabilitator.

Actually that’s the wrong thing to do and the wrong approach to take with your concern, according to DNREC wildlife biologist Joe Rogerson: “There are a number of things people who remove fawns from the field may not realize,” he said. “First and foremost, the fawn hasn’t been ‘abandoned’ at all.

“Newborn fawns need to feed every few hours so the mother never strays far. So even if a fawn appears to be alone, the doe is likely bedded close by,” Rogerson said. “Fawns don’t become active enough to start traveling with their mothers until they are about two months old, so the survival instinct of a newborn fawn is to stay very still and ‘hide’ from predators.”

Furthermore, research has shown that many fawns cared for by people have a greatly decreased chance of survival once they are released back into the wild, compared to their counterparts raised by their mothers. Fawns raised in the wild are able to learn survival instincts from their mothers that people simply cannot teach them.

Not only is removing a fawn from its hiding place not in the animal’s best interest, it is also illegal for an individual in Delaware to possess a live white-tailed deer. If found guilty, such an offense is punishable by a fine not less than $250, nor more than $1,000, plus the costs of prosecution and court costs; the person may also be fined and imprisoned for up to 30 days. In addition, any deer held illegally in captivity will be removed by the Division.

“The bottom line is, if you really care about the fawn and its well-being, please leave the animal alone. Its mother will return and the animal will have a far greater chance at survival than if you take it home,” Rogerson added.

For more information about fawns or Delaware’s white-tailed deer, please contact Joe Rogerson, DNREC Wildlife Section, at 302-735-3600.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Before applying for a Delaware hunting license, all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1967 are required to take a minimum 10-hour basic hunter education course. Since Jan. 1, 2010, Delaware law also requires that a live-firing experience be part of every basic hunter education class, for both online and traditional classroom versions.

There are now locations in all three counties where Delaware hunter education students can fulfill their live-firing requirement: Owens Station Sporting Clay Range near Greenwood in Sussex County, the C&R Center in Petersburg in Kent County, and Ommelanden Range near New Castle and Taylor Bridge Community Center near Townsend, both in New Castle County.

Insurance rules covering the shooting require that all students participating in any hunter education live firing provide a signed release of liability and waiver of right to sue in order to participate. Waivers for minor students under the age of 18 must now include the notarized signatures of parents or legal guardians. (NOTE: Because the Division of Fish & Wildlife’s Office of Hunter Education asks that the signed waiver be mailed in to at least seven days prior to the course date to validate a student’s registration, students may not be able to just “walk in” on the day of the class and be seated.)

The Hunter Education Program will provide all firearms, ammunition and targets but students will be responsible for their own hearing and eye protection. All basic hunter education courses taught by State of Delaware volunteer instructors are offered free of charge. This includes participation in the instructor-led field days required of all on-line course students. The online hunter education courses are provided by private vendors and are available for a nominal fee.

Additional information, waivers and websites for online courses are available at the Division of Fish & Wildlife website at www.fw.delaware.gov – scroll down to Hunter/Trapper Education Access. Copies of the waiver can be obtained at the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife in Dover or by calling the Office of Hunter Education at 302-735-3600

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

LEWES, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Volunteers who would like to learn more about Delaware’s endangered piping plovers and other beach-nesting birds.

Find out how they can join DNREC’s monitoring team are invited to attend a training session from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at the Biden Center at Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.

The session, which is free of charge, will begin with refreshments and a slideshow, followed by a discussion on the monitoring program and how volunteers can help to ensure that our beachnesting shorebirds are given the peace and quiet they need to successfully rear their chicks.

Weather permitting, the group will finish out the session by going out to the Point at Cape Henlopen to look for piping plovers and other shorebirds that will likely be out on the tidal flats feeding. A few birding scopes and pairs of binoculars will be available for use, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own optics if they have them.

Wildlife Biologist Matthew Bailey hopes the session will draw both new and seasoned volunteers in good numbers to help DNREC staff in their efforts to protect beachnesters and educate the public.

“Volunteers are a critical component of our protection efforts. When posted at the boundaries of the nesting areas, they can help explain to the public facts about the breeding birds and the importance of keeping closed areas free of human disturbance. Without having volunteers to supplement the coverage that our staff can provide, many people might never have the chance to better understand how humans can make a difference in the breeding success of beach-nesting birds,” Bailey said.

Pre-registration is encouraged, but attendees also will be accepted at the door. Park entrance fees will be waived for volunteers attending the training by notifying the fee booth attendant. For more information, please contact Wildlife Biologist Matt Bailey at 302-382-4151 or email matthew.bailey@state.de.us.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- As part of its comprehensive water conservation plan, the DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship is offering rain barrels at a discounted price to residents of Delaware.

Having a rain barrel provides an innovative way to capture rainwater from your roof and store it for later use. Water collected from rain barrels can be used to wash cars and to water lawns, gardens and indoor plants.

“Without a rain barrel, this water would run off your roof and become stormwater, picking up pollutants on its way to a storm drain, stream, lake, bay or ocean,” said Environmental Scientist Sharon Webb of the Division’s Nonpoint Source Program. “By using a rain barrel, you can lower your water bill, conserve well water in the dry season and reduce polluted stormwater runoff.”

Regular retail price for these heavy duty plastic barrels is $119. However, by purchasing the barrels at a quantity discount, the Nonpoint Source Program can offer them for $66 each.

The terra cotta-colored barrels are made from recycled food grade barrels that originally entered the United States filled with olives and pickles. Thoroughly scrubbed, the barrels may have some small scrapes and scratches from their travels. The barrels are fitted with a screw-on perforated top with an inside mesh screen to help keep out debris, bugs, pets and children, plus a spigot and an overflow hose fitting to allow water to be diverted into a second barrel.

A limited number of barrels are available and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. For more information, please call 302-739-9922 or email sharon.webb@state.de.us. To check on availability during distribution please call 302-739-9922. Payment must be made by check or money order made out to “State of Delaware.”

For New Castle County residents barrels will be available for pick up from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 19 at the New Castle County District office Maintenance Yard, 2430 Old County Road, Newark (signs will be posted). For directions to the facility, please visit http://newcastleconservationdistrict.org/ and click on directions at bottom of page.

For Kent County residents, barrels will be available for pick up from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 18 at Polytech High School, 823 Walnut Shade Road, Woodside (signs will be posted). For directions, please visit http://local.yahoo.com/info-12366682-polytech-high-school-woodside.

For Sussex County residents, barrels will be available for pick up from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, May 16 at the DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship, Lewes Facility, off Pilottown Road, Lewes. For directions, please visit www.swc.dnrec.delaware.gov/Shoreline/Pages/LewesFieldFacility.aspx.

Barrels will fit in the backseat of most cars and not in the trunk so you may want to bring a tarp or blanket to protect the seat.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Do you know a Delaware student who is working to make a difference for the environment?

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is encouraging teachers, classmates, parents, club or group leaders and others to begin planning to nominate these students for the 2011 Young Environmentalist of the Year Awards. Nominations must be based on actions or projects which have taken place between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.

Nominations will be accepted between Sunday, May 1 and Wednesday, June 1, 2011. A winner will be chosen from each of the following categories:

• Elementary for students in grades 1-4
• Middle School for students in grades 5-8
• High School for students in grades 9-12

The Young Environmentalist program honors Delaware students whose actions have resulted in the protection, restoration or enhancement of Delaware’s natural resources. Judges will look for innovative projects that increase public awareness and demonstrate environmental ethics and stewardship.

Past honorees have included students who have organized tree plantings, a household hazardous waste community collection day and school recycling programs; students who volunteered their time with the Delaware Nature Society, DNREC’s Piping Plover Monitoring Program, the DuPont Nature Center, the Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs program, and the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute, among other organizations; and a prolific poster artist, who worked to raise public awareness on a variety of environmental issues.

This is the 18th year for the award, which was established by DNREC colleagues and friends in honor of Dr. Edwin H. Clark II, who served as Secretary of DNREC from 1989 until 1993.

A $100 U.S. savings bond and a Delaware State Parks gift certificate will be awarded to each category winner in recognition of his or her contribution to the community. Winners will be honored in a special ceremony.

For more information, including nomination forms, please call Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, at 302-739-9902, or visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- GREENWOOD (April 6, 2011) – The results are in. Missouri artist Tom Morgan Crain’s painting featuring a lesser scaup will become the 2012 Delaware Duck Stamp. A painting of brook trout by Delaware artist George Bradford of Georgetown, will appear on the 2012 Delaware Trout Stamp. Mr. Bradford also won second place in the Trout Stamp contest for his painting of a brown trout.

The paintings won top honors in the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife’s annual stamp art competition, held Saturday, April 2 at the Ducks Unlimited Greenwings Event in Greenwood. This year’s event drew 33 entries for the 2012 Duck Stamp and 11 entries for the 2012 Trout Stamp. The 2012 Trout Stamp winner, George Bradford, receives $250 and retains the rights to reproduce and sell prints of the stamp.

The 2012 Duck Stamp winner, Tom Morgan Crain, who resides in Branson, Mo., will receive a $2,500 prize and 150 artist’s proofs of the limited edition print series of his first place duck entry. Crain has illustrated many best in shows for the National Wildlife Show in Kansas City. He is a three-time winner for the Missouri Duck Stamp and a past winner for the Indiana Trout Stamp and Delaware Trout Stamp. He was recently awarded the 2012 Ohio Duck Stamp. Crain has also illustrated for the Wild Turkey Federation, Missouri Show-me Chapter, Ducks Unlimited Hunters log, Cabela’s catalog cover, and many other covers.

Other winners included:

• 2012 Duck Stamp: Second place – Gerald Putt of Boiling Springs, Pa., pintails; Third place – Steve Oliver of Brookhaven, Pa., green-winged teal; Honorable mention: Richard Clifton of Milford, Del., pintail; George Lockwood of Santa Ynez, Calif., mallard; and Ron Kleiber of Erin, N.Y., bufflehead.
• 2012 Trout Stamp: Third place – Bart Gelesh of Oxford, Pa., brook trout; Honorable mention: Larry Smail of Kittanning, Pa., brown trout; Matt Patterson of New Ipswich, N.H., brook trout; and Donnie Hughes of Lexington, S.C., brook trout.

The Duck and Trout Stamp entries are on display now through Saturday, April 23 at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, 866 N. DuPont Highway, Dover, just south of Delaware State University. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information about the museum, please call 302-734-1618.

The 2012 Duck Stamp judges were Ducks Unlimited Chairman Clif Bakhsh, artist Paul Shertz, collector Dan Shevock, art professional Don Parks and biologist Charlii Miller.

The 2012 Trout Stamp judges were collector Dan Shevock, biologist Charlii Miller, artist Doug Gibson, Trout Unlimited member Bill O’Connor, and collector/biologist Roy Miller.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife, in partnership with Ducks Unlimited, began the duck stamp and print program in 1980 to raise funds for waterfowl conservation, including acquiring and improving the wetland habitats that are vital for the survival of migratory waterfowl. To date, more than $2.5 million has been raised.

The Division began requiring trout stamps in the 1950s. Trout stamp art was first used in 1977. The fees paid for Trout Stamps are used to purchase rainbow and brown trout from commercial hatcheries. The purchased trout are stocked in two downstate ponds and selected streams in northern New Castle County for Delaware’s spring trout season.

Residents 16 to 64 years of age are required to have a Delaware Trout Stamp, which costs $4.20. Residents ages 12 through 15 years old are required to have a Young Angler Trout Stamp, which costs $2.10. Non-residents 12 years of age and older are required to have a Non-Resident Trout Stamp, which costs $6.20.

Duck Stamps go on sale July 1 for $9 and are required when hunting migratory waterfowl in Delaware.

Duck and Trout Stamps are available at the Division of Fish and Wildlife offices in the Richardson and Robbins Building at 89 Kings Highway in Dover, at license agents throughout the state or online at www.fw.delaware.gov, which also includes a list of license agents. Collector stamps and prints are sold only at the Division’s administrative offices.

For more information, call the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 739-9911.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

SMYRNA, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is seeking volunteers to help remove non-native vines that have invaded a section of the Blackbird Reserve Wildlife Area near Smyrna.

The volunteer removal effort runs from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 10.

The invasive vines, including Wintercreeper Euonymous, English ivy and Japanese wisteria, are clinging to trees and covering native plants and wildlife habitat.

Volunteers will be using hand tools to remove the vines. Gloves and tools – pruners, loppers, handsaws, etc. – will be provided, but volunteers are welcome to bring their own.

Due to the nature of the work, volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers also are strongly encouraged to pre-register with contact information in case of inclement weather leading to postponement.

Volunteers will be meeting at the wildlife area’s parking lot on Eagles Nest Landing Road.

Interested in volunteering or more information? Please contact Lynne Staub, volunteer coordinator with the Division of Fish and Wildlife, at 302-735-3600, or by email at lynne.staub@state.de.us.

To learn more about Fish and Wildlife’s volunteer programs and upcoming projects, visit www.fw.delaware.gov/volunteers

North American Amphibian Monitoring Program

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The sound of frogs calling in the night is more than just a sign of spring’s arrival.

Frog calls can also be an important way to determine where different species live and how populations are doing over time – and many scientists now believe keeping track of these small amphibians can provide valuable information about our natural world.

“Frogs, toads and other amphibians have received more attention over the last few years as scientists and the public have become increasingly alarmed over amphibian declines and deformities. Because amphibians are aquatic for at least part of their life cycle, they can serve as important indicators of water quality and other aspects of environmental health,” said Holly Niederriter, a wildlife biologist with the Delaware Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program.

Concern over declines in amphibian populations has prompted the initiation of amphibian monitoring programs in North America and around the world, Niederriter added. The Delaware Amphibian Monitoring Project (DAMP) is our local chapter of a national effort called the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program.

This spring, DAMP is seeking volunteers to conduct surveys of calling frogs around the state. Volunteers with DAMP are assigned a route in one portion of the state, and they conduct surveys by listening for calling frogs at stops along the route, where they record the species they hear and general number of frogs calling. A number of routes have yet to be assigned in Delaware, particularly in Sussex and Kent counties.

An orientation meeting will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 10 at the St. Jones Reserve in Dover, with a training CD and other information to be provided. Potential volunteers need to have a car, access to the internet and be willing to conduct surveys along a roadside at night. After volunteers learn the calls of Delaware’s 16 frog species, they conduct three nighttime surveys between February and July each year. Each survey takes between two to three hours, not including drive time to the start point. This is a long-term project and is best suited for volunteers who are able to commit to conducting surveys for at least a few years.

To find out more about volunteering for DAMP, please contact Vickie Henderson or Lauren Johnson, Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, at 302-735-8651 or via e-mail Vickie.Henderson@state.de.us or Lauren.Johnson@state.de.us. Preregistration for the orientation is encouraged but not required. Information is also available by visiting the national project website, www.pwrc.usgs.gov/naamp/.

DAMP was started in 1997 and is part of the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program (NAAMP), which helps to coordinate similar efforts in other states and provinces. The program is funded by donations to the Nongame and Endangered Species Fund on the Delaware state income tax form. You can donate all or a portion of your state tax refund to keep frogs singing in Delaware.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section today released the following recent arrests:

· John P. Bachand, age 41, of Lewes, was arrested on Feb. 14 and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and loitering to solicit sex in an incident at Courseys Pond near Felton. Bachand was released pending trial.

· Michael L. Dale, age 47, of Smyrna, was arrested on Feb. 13 and charged with operating a motor vehicle off of established roadways and cutting/removing plants from a state refuge without a permit in an incident at Woodland Beach Wildlife Area. Dale was ordered to unload wood he had cut from his truck and leave it in the wildlife area.

· Roger G. Clarke, age 68, of Dagsboro, and Betty G. Jean, age 55, were arrested on Feb. 13 and charged with loitering to engage in sex/soliciting another to engage in sex in an incident on state-owned property at Haven Lake in Milford. Clarke and Jean were fined and released.

· John W. Whitby, age 40, of Laurel, was arrested on Feb. 10 on a warrant for unpaid fines for fish and wildlife violations. Whitby was remanded to the Sussex County Correctional Institution in lieu of $100 cash bail.

· Paul M. Hullinger, age 52, of Middletown, was arrested on Feb. 8 and charged with damaging state property and operating a motor vehicle off of established roadways in an incident on the C&D Canal Wildlife Area. Hullinger was fined and released.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

SEAFORD , Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents on Jan. 20 arrested two Kent County men for spotlighting.

In separate incidents, Alan H. Zaccardi, age 24, of Camden Wyoming, and Thomas Clough, age 42, of Hartly, were both arrested and charged with spotlighting.

Both also received warnings for traffic violations.

Each was fined $327 including court costs.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

GEORGETOWN/TOWNSEND, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- In separate incidents, DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents arrested a Camden Wyoming man on weapons charges in Redden State Forest near Georgetown, and a Townsend father and son and a Dover man for illegal operation of ATVs in Blackbird State Forest near Smyrna.

Justin L. Clough, age 26, of Camden Wyoming, was arrested Jan. 19 and charged with one felony count of possession of a firearm by a person prohibited and one count of hunting without a license in Redden State Forest.

He was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court No. 3 in Georgetown and released on $5,500 unsecured bond pending trial in the Sussex County Court of Common Pleas.

Three men – Arthur Bennett, age 49, and Arthur Bennett Jr., age 30, both of Townsend, and Daniel Angwin, age 33, of Dover – were arrested Jan. 16 and each charged with operation of an off-road vehicle (OHV) on a public roadway, trespassing with an OHV and operating a non-licensed motor vehicle on State Forest lands.

The three were fined a combined total of $1,384.50 and released.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Dover, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents on Jan. 8 arrested three upstate men on charges of waterfowl violations related to an incident on Indian River Bay in Sussex County.

Ryan W. Moody, age 28, of Bear, was arrested and charged with carrying a loaded firearm in a vessel, hunting from a vessel and possession of unlawfully taken game. Randolph S. Moody, age 26, of Middletown, was arrested and charged with over limit on waterfowl and possession of unlawfully taken game.

Raymond P. Paoletti, age 38, of New Castle, was arrested and charged with over limit on waterfowl and possession of unlawfully taken game.

All three men were also charged under federal rules adopted by the State of Delaware with rallying ducks – in this case, by operating a boat to cause ducks to fly for the purpose of shooting at them.

The three men were issued fines totaling $800 and released.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

MILFORD, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents assisting Delaware State Police in an accident investigation on Dec. 26 arrested a Milford man on charges of hunting and weapons violations.

Gary M. Messick Jr., age 28, of Milford, was arrested and charged with three counts of possession of a firearm/ammunition by a person prohibited and four counts of possessing unlawfully taken waterfowl. Three shotguns were seized as evidence.

Messick pled not guilty to the charges in Justice of the Peace Court No. 3 in Georgetown and was released on $7,500 unsecured bond pending trial in Superior Court.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Dover, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Two local chapters of private non-profit conservation organizations recently donated funds to the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife for wildlife management projects on four state-owned wildlife areas in Kent County.

The Delaware Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) has donated $1,390 to fund a wetland restoration project on 10 acres of forested wetland at Norman G. Wilder Wildlife Area near Viola. The original wetland was degraded by ditches for agricultural drainage. The project is expected to be completed this winter.

In addition to serving a water quality function, the restored wetland will provide valuable habitat for a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, aquatic invertebrates and many species of mammals. Additionally, the wetlands provide water at dry periods where previously little or none existed.

The RMEF also donated $1,750.50 to fund the purchase of herbicides that were used to control undesirable brush and invasive species on 50 acres of meadowlands (early successional stage) habitat at Norman G. Wilder Wildlife Area and Blackiston Wildlife Area near Kenton. The project was completed this fall.

The Delaware Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation has also donated $1,750.50 to fund purchase of herbicides for wildlife management on 50 acres of similar habitat at Woodland Beach Wildlife Area near Smyrna and Little Creek Wildlife Area near Dover. The application will take place in the fall of 2011.

Meadowlands vegetation provides valuable brood and nesting habitat for wild turkeys and quail. Restoration of this habitat will also benefit cottontail rabbits, American woodcock, small mammals, many songbird species, butterflies, and many species of desirable insects.

All four wildlife areas are within the Delaware Estuary Watershed.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents on Nov. 15 arrested a Dover man for hunting-related violations.

Michael Camisky, age 56, of 65 Song Bird Lane, Dover, was arrested and charged with two counts of failure to attach deer tag to antlered deer, failure to check antlered deer within 24 hours, two counts of unlawfully transporting antlered deer, two counts of killing antlered deer without purchasing a hunter’s choice tag, carrying an unlawfully loaded firearm in a vehicle and not wearing required hunter orange.

He was released on $1,900 unsecured bond pending trial at the Kent County Court of Common Pleas.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

For further information, contact Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, at 302-739-9913.

Weather Conditions Lead To Deaths Of Migrating Songbirds

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DOVER (Nov. 2, 2010) – A significant number of songbirds were silenced last week in Delaware when their southerly migration ran afoul of circumstantial weather conditions that led to their flying into glass windows causing mortal injuries to nearly a dozen species of thrushes and sparrows, common and rare birds alike.

As a cold front moved into the northeastern United States on the night of October 28, conditions were perfect for a mass migration of songbirds throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. After almost a week in which no strong bird migratory movements had been detected across Delmarva, many songbirds seized on the coming cold front to depart ahead of it, leading to a historic fallout of migrants in Delaware. Reports from birders indicate that migrant songbirds, particularly sparrows and thrushes, had descended on Delaware in record numbers as they worked their way south for the upcoming winter. Unfortunately, their epic migration also provided a glimpse into the dangers that many migratory birds face along their journey.

Just after daylight Friday morning, Oct. 29, shopkeepers, residents, and visitors of Rehoboth began noticing a number of dead birds along the boardwalk. Their concern led them to contact the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, which got through to the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section. Later, as he identified photos of some of the dead birds as thrushes, Anthony Gonzon, a wildlife biologist with the Division’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, knew immediately that something disturbing had happened in the resort beach town.

For Gonzon, finding one or two dead songbirds almost anywhere would not be surprising, but an initial report of 12-15 birds at a localized site was highly unusual – especially occurring away from large cities where tall buildings and the potential for birds to strike windows would be much more prevalent.

Joined by Sr. Cpl. Tommy Penuel of the Division’s Enforcement Section and officers from the Rehoboth Police Department, Gonzon searched the Rehoboth boardwalk and side streets for dead migrants, eventually turning up 60 dead songbirds representing 11 different species. Counted among them were 20 White-throated Sparrows, 17 Hermit Thrushes, along with uncommon species such as the Lincoln’s and Nelson’s Sparrows.

Nearly all of the birds had injuries consistent with window or building strikes. Others had already been scavenged by cats and other birds, but all were found in proximity to those that had died as a result of collision. Sites along the northern half of the Rehoboth boardwalk resulted in the greatest number of mortalities. Windows along that stretch showed obvious signs of avian impacts, several with dead songbirds having fallen directly below them. While there were likely far more dead birds than searchers found at the time, between boardwalk residents and maintenance workers removing and discarding some birds and scavengers taking others, the actual number of mortalities is difficult to speculate.

All of the events leading to this mortality event might never be truly understood, but Gonzon ironically pegged it in the larger picture to perfect migration weather patterns.

“I’d received word from several sources that migration on Thursday night (Oct. 28) would be historic in terms of the sheer number of birds on the move,” he said. “Given that hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of birds were passing by and descending on us very early Friday morning, and with winds blowing out of the north-northwest, birds coming off Cape May and crossing over to Delaware may have been forced a bit further south. This would result in a landfall at or about Rehoboth Beach.”

As exhausted birds reached the Delaware coast during the predawn period, lights and reflections from buildings and glass could disorient them, resulting in strikes. Because birds fly lower over water as they descend upon reaching land, it’s possible that buildings and glass along the boardwalk were directly in their path. Gonzon also noted that ominously perfect conditions aligned for the unfortunate mortality, and that until those conditions coalesce again, Delaware would likely not see an event like this anytime in the near future.

Unfortunately, there are no easy preventatives for birds striking buildings or glass. Because birds often cannot see glass or comprehend the difference between a flyway and a reflection, bird strikes on glass are implicated as one of the most significant causes of mortality for migrants. Mortality estimates from glass strikes range from a conservative 100 million annually to nearly 1 billion.

“However, we can do some things to reduce the impacts of this type of mortality,” Gonzon said. “Decreasing the use of building and window lighting during peak migration periods and using bird-safe glass can help to reduce the number of strikes. The use of exterior window treatments such as pull down shades also can reduce or eliminate reflectivity, and prevent birds from striking.”

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents on Oct. 8 arrested a Milford man for hunting-related violations on Redden State Forest land near Georgetown.

Timothy W. Wyatt, age 47, of 549 Canterbury Road, Milford, was arrested and charged with hunting without a license, not wearing required hunter orange, hunting with a prohibited weapon and using a prohibited hunting method (baiting, illegal on public lands).

Wyatt pled guilty to all charges on Oct. 13 and was fined $275.50 at Justice of the Peace Court 3 in Georgetown.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

For further information, contact Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, at 302-739-9913.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- DNREC Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents this week arrested two Dover men in separate incidents on hunting-related violations.

On Oct. 10, Robert Burns, age 28, of 6032 Center Road, Dover, was arrested and charged with hunting without a license, trespassing to hunt and not wearing required hunter orange.

Burns pled guilty to all charges and was fined at Justice of the Peace Court 6 in Harrington.

On Oct. 13, John L. Flick, age 39, of 13 Turning Leaf Court, Dover, was arrested and charged with providing hunting guide services without a license.

Flick pled guilty to the charge and was fined at Justice of the Peace Court 3 in Georgetown.

Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.

For further information, contact Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, at 302-739-9913.

Delaware's Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Weekend set for Aug. 27-29

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- A few slots remain for the 2010 Delaware Becoming an Outdoors-Woman weekend set for Aug. 27 – 29, with registration closing Sunday, Aug. 1.

The BOW program provides women the opportunity to learn skills that encourage and enhance participation in outdoor activities, such as hunting and shooting, fishing and boating, and non-harvest activities.

Delaware’s BOW Weekend features four half-day training sessions that begin on Friday afternoon. Participants have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of course offerings during each of the sessions. Included among the many hands-on courses during the weekend are target archery, surf fishing, camping, shotgun shooting, basic boating, canoeing, fly-fishing, saltwater fishing, nature photography, and various other outdoor activities. The instructors of these courses have been selected for their expertise as well as their ability to provide instruction in a safe, supportive and non-competitive atmosphere.

This workshop is for you if:

• You have never tried these activities but have hoped for an opportunity to learn.
• You are a beginner who would like to improve your skills.
• You have some experience but would like to try your hand at new activities.
• You are just looking for camaraderie with like-minded individuals.

The cost of the three-day program is $200, which includes lodging, meals, instruction, and the use of all necessary equipment and supplies. Registrations will be accepted until Aug. 1, 2010. No refunds will be given for cancellations.

While Becoming an Outdoors-Woman is aimed primarily at women, it offers an opportunity for anyone 18 or older to learn skills that allow them to participate in numerous outdoor activities. Since the first BOW was held in Wisconsin in 1991, this exciting international program has expanded to 46 states and seven provinces with more than 80 workshops offered each year.

For more information, contact Lauren Johnson or Pearl Franklin, Aquatic Resources Education Center, by calling 302-735-8656. Registration packets are also available online at: www.fw.delaware.gov/HunterEd/Pages/BOWHome.aspx

For more information, contact Lauren Johnson or Pearl Franklin, Aquatic Resources Education Center, 302-735-8689, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

Chronic Wasting Disease In Deer

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Nearly 600 brain and lymph node tissue samples taken from white-tailed deer in all three counties of Delaware in 2009 showed no evidence of chronic wasting disease (CWD), the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife announced today.

The samples were submitted to the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine’s New Bolton Center for testing. Final test results just received showed all the 2009 samples to be negative for the disease for the seventh straight year. This latest sampling brings the total number of Delaware deer tested since 2003 to nearly 3,500, and none so far have been positive for CWD.

During the October muzzleloader and November shotgun deer seasons last fall, 592 tissue samples were collected at meat processors across the state from deer harvested by hunters. The Division’s goal is to test and sample 200 deer within each county. Last year, the Division achieved this goal in Kent and Sussex Counties but despite collecting samples from two deer processors, it came up a little short in New Castle County.

“A full 600 samples would have provided us a 99 percent probability of detecting the disease if it existed in one percent or more of the deer population. The only way to be certain that every deer in Delaware is free of CWD would be to test every deer, and that would not be practical. While this doesn’t provide 100 percent assurance of no disease, we are encouraged by these results,” said DNREC Game Mammal Biologist Joe Rogerson.

CWD is a neurological condition found in deer and elk in which an abnormal protein material called a prion invades and gradually destroys the animal’s brain. It is thought to be 100 percent fatal and believed to be transmitted from close contact with infected deer. The disease wasn’t known until the 1960s. In the 1970s, CWD was identified as a transmittable neurological disease. Extensive research has found no evidence that the disease can be transmitted to humans.

Surveillance programs such as Delaware’s have been established in all eastern states and monitoring will continue in future years. So far, most eastern herds seem to be disease free. The closest state to Delaware in which CWD has been detected is West Virginia, while the most recent states to detect the disease are Missouri and Virginia, which found CWD in their state’s deer herd this past year. DNREC will continue monitoring in Delaware for the disease with plans for more tissue sampling this fall.

Several years ago, the Division passed two regulations in an attempt to ensure that Delaware remains CWD free. The first regulation bans the importation of high risk parts such as the brain, spine and lymph nodes from deer harvested in areas where CWD has been detected. A second regulation requires mandatory notification to the Division by a hunter if a deer harvested out of state by a Delaware resident tests positive for CWD.

Hunters should be aware that more news regarding CWD will likely be available as more information is learned about this disease. In the event a deer does test positive for CWD in Delaware, or a surrounding state (Maryland or Pennsylvania), the Division is in the process of finalizing a CWD Response Plan so that action can be taken immediately. Under the plan, additional regulations also may be created in an attempt to keep Delaware free of CWD.

More information can be found in the 2010-2011 Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide (available soon), on the Division’s CWD Awareness Page at

http://www.fw.delaware.gov/Pages/CWD%20not%20in%20Delaware.aspx

or the CWD Alliance’s website, www.cwd-info.org/.

For more information about CWD in Delaware or any other deer related issue, please contact Wildlife Biologist Joe Rogerson at 302-735-3600.

Coyote Sightings Increase

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Just 10 years ago, the First State had very few – if any – resident coyotes. Even now, coyotes remain rare, so rare that even Delawareans who spend a lot of time outdoors probably will not encounter one. However, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife has documented that these animals can now be found in each of Delaware’s three counties.

Because of this, residents are no longer being asked to report sightings to the Division.

“In the past, we have asked people to contact us if the saw an animal they believed to be a coyote. These sightings helped us document their distribution but now that we know they are here, we do not need sighting reports from the public,” said Joe Rogerson, Deer and Furbearer Biologist.

Coyotes resemble medium-sized dogs, with erect pointed ears, a long, slender muzzle and a bushy tail held low to the ground. Typically, they are brownish or reddish gray with a lighter-colored belly and rusty ears and legs, weighing between 20 and 50 pounds. Highly adaptable to change and able to thrive in suburban as well as rural areas, these opportunistic predator-scavengers will eat practically anything, from garbage to small mammals, berries and even deer on some occasions.

As with all wild animals, Rogerson urges residents to use caution if they do spot a coyote in their area. “Remember, all wild animals are unpredictable and caution is the watchword when they are around. If you want a closer look, use binoculars and observe from a distance. Never put food out to lure them closer. Nearly all bites or attacks occur when people attempt to feed wild animals or to treat them like domestic animals,” Rogerson said. “The chances of being attacked by a domestic dog are approximately one million times greater than being attacked by a coyote. In a given year, there are usually fewer than five coyote attacks on humans across the entire United States, and no one has ever reported a coyote attack on a person in Delaware.”

To make your property less appealing to coyotes, take the following steps:

• Do not leave food outside, and eliminate standing sources of water.
• Elevate bird feeders so that coyotes can’t reach them. Coyotes are attracted by bread, table scraps, and even seed. They may also be attracted by the birds and rodents that come to feeders.
• Put all food waste in secure garbage containers.
• Keep pets safely confined and provide secure nighttime housing for them.
• Discourage coyotes from “cohabitating” with humans. If you see them around your home, chase them away by shouting, making loud noises or throwing rocks.

For information or questions concerning coyotes in Delaware, please contact Joe Rogerson, Wildlife Section, at 302-735-3600, or visit http://www.fw.delaware.gov/Hunting/Pages/Coyotes.aspx .

What You Should Know If You Find A Seemingly Abandoned Fawn

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- The end of May marks the beginning of the fawning season in Delaware, with most born during the last week of May through the first week of June.

Some fawns will be born as late as August. Each year around this time, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife receives numerous calls regarding “abandoned fawns.” In an attempt to “do the right thing” individuals may attempt to “save” these animals and bring them to a wildlife rehabilitator.

“There are a number of things people who remove fawns from the field may not realize. Fawns actually don’t become active enough to start traveling with their mothers until they are about two months old, and the survival instinct of a fawn is to stay very still and “hide” from predators,” said DNREC Wildlife Biologist Joe Rogerson. “Also, even if a fawn appears to be alone, the mother is likely bedded close by. Newborn fawns need to feed every few hours so the doe never strays far.”

Furthermore, research has shown that many fawns cared for by people have a greatly decreased chance of survival once they are released back into the wild, compared to their counterparts raised by their mothers. Fawns raised in the wild are able to learn survival instincts from their mothers that people simply can’t teach them.

Not only is removing a fawn from its hiding place not in its best interest, it is also illegal for an individual in Delaware to possess a live white-tailed deer. If found guilty, such an offense is punishable by a fine not less than $250, nor more than $1,000, plus the costs of prosecution and court costs; the person may also be fined and imprisoned for up to 30 days. In addition, any deer held illegally in captivity will be removed by the Division.

“The bottom line is, if you really care about the fawn and its well-being, please leave the animal alone. Its mother will return and the animal will have a far greater chance at survival than if you take it home,” Rogerson added.

For more information about fawns or white-tailed deer in general, please contact Ken Reynolds, Rob Hossler or Joe Rogerson, Wildlife Section, at 302-735-3600.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- After nearly two years of work - which included stakeholder meetings, public meetings, surveys and extensive field research - the DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife (DFW) is pleased to announce that it has completed The Delaware Deer Management Plan: A Guide to How and Why Deer Are Managed in the First State.

“Deer are arguably the most important wildlife species the Division is responsible for managing because they affect so many people. This plan will enable the Division to manage the Delaware deer population in a manner that meets the expectations of the public while also taking into account what the environment can support,” said Joe Rogerson, Deer and Furbearer Biologist.

White-tailed Deer Management Plan Finalized

The Division of Fish & Wildlife has never had a formal deer management plan. The new Delaware Deer Management Plan fills this gap three-fold. The plan first documents the history of white-tailed deer and white-tailed deer management in Delaware. It goes on to describe the current status of white-tailed deer in Delaware, and the positive and negative impacts of the state’s white-tailed deer herd. Finally, the plan documents the Division’s responsibilities related to deer management, outlining the goals and objectives for deer management through 2019.

The new plan is both a strategic and operational plan, using hunting as the primary tool for deer management as well as outlining how hunting seasons are established and amended to keep Delaware’s deer population in check.

“Whether you are a farmer, hunter, outdoor recreationalist, or someone who has experience with deer in roadways, you probably have an interest in how deer are managed in Delaware, which is why we created this document,” Rogerson said. “Though it is difficult to ensure everyone is 100 percent satisfied, we feel the plan will meet the needs and address the concerns of most Delawareans, including farmers, wildlife watchers and hunters.”

Printed copies of the plan will be available in the coming weeks. For now, the full 102-page plan can be found online at http://tiny.cc/ddfw.

“We recognize that this plan is rather technical and quite long, so we will be working on a summarized version that’s more user-friendly for the public. Those who want more specifics will be able to refer the longer version,” Rogerson added.

For questions concerning the Delaware Deer Management Plan, or any other deer related issue, please contact Joe Rogerson, Wildlife Section, at 302-735-3600.

Piping Plover

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(AmmoLand.com)- As of today, May 10, six piping plover nests had been spotted at Cape Henlopen, all on the Point. Things are progressing more slowly down at Gordons Pond, where two pairs of plovers have staked out territories and no nests have been seen yet.

The first four nests at the Point have complete clutches of four eggs. The newest nests, when checked earlier today, had two eggs each. Two of the nests have had predator exclosures built around them, and a third will likely receive an exclosure when its clutch of eggs is complete. The other three nests are in spots where there is relatively heavy vegetation and/or steep dunes nearby.

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service suggests avoiding use of exclosures around nests in such low visibility areas, since predators may be able to sneak up on the adult plovers as they incubate the nest,” explained Wildlife Biologist Matthew Bailey.

Two pairs of American oystercatchers have nested at Cape Henlopen, one at the Point and one at Gordons Pond. The nest at the Point was taken by a predator, but hopefully the pair will renest, Bailey said, noting predators and May high tides will continue to threaten the nests.

Volunteers who would like to help monitor the progress of Delaware’s endangered piping plovers and other beachnesters this season are invited to a free training session from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 15, at the Biden Center at Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.

The session will begin with refreshments and a slideshow, followed by a discussion on the monitoring program and how volunteers can help to ensure that our beachnesting shorebirds are given the peace and quiet they need to successfully rear their chicks. Weather permitting, the group will finish out the session by going out to the Point at Cape Henlopen to look for piping plovers and other shorebirds. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own scopes or binoculars if they have them.

Preregistration is encouraged, but attendees also will be accepted at the door. Park entrance fees will be waived for volunteers attending the training by notifying the fee booth attendant. For more information, please contact Wildlife Biologist Matt Bailey at 302-382-4151 or email matthew.bailey@state.de.us.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(AmmoLand.com)- Over the last two decades, more than 3,000 Delawareans of all ages have joined the Delaware Adopt-A-Wetland Program to care for thousands of acres of our state’s treasured wetlands. On Saturday, May 8, DNREC staff and some of those adopters gathered at the site of the program’s 100th adoption in Frederica to celebrate the continuing success of Adopt-A-Wetland.

“The Delaware Adopt-A-Wetland Program began as a way to encourage grassroots environmental stewardship in our communities to help care for one of Delaware’s most vital natural resources. It was developed to increase public awareness about the many benefits our wetlands provide and to enlist volunteers to help monitor and protect them for the future. Today, the program is one of DNREC’s great success stories, and a wonderful example of what a public-private partnership can achieve,” said DNREC Deputy Secretary David Small.

Delaware Adopt-A-Wetland Program

Delaware Adopt-A-Wetland got its start in the late 1980s as the inspiration of a retired chemist and small farmer named Dot White. Concerned about the impact of her farm on the environment, Ms. White drew on her scientific background to research the best way to reduce that impact – and discovered the importance of wetlands.

Wetlands maintain and improve water quality by removing chemicals, filtering sediments and absorbing organic pollutants. These areas between land and water also control flooding by absorbing excess water; hold water in times of drought; stabilize soil with marsh plant roots to reduce erosion; provide habitat and breeding grounds for fish, birds and other animals; provide us with a rich harvest of products, from timber and salt hay to food gathered from hunting, fishing, crabbing and trapping; and offer recreational opportunities such as canoeing, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching and photography.

Ms. White launched her idea in 1989 with the adoption of a site at Records Pond near Laurel by a local school and soon gained the support of DNREC to start the Adopt-A-Wetland program. Since then, individuals and families, youth groups such as schools, scout troops and 4-H, service clubs and organizations, homeowners associations, and businesses of all sizes have adopted wetlands. The program’s 100th adoption, of a wetland on the edge of the town of Frederica, was made by a group of DNREC employees in the Division of Water Resources’ Subaqueous Lands Section.

Adopters may apply with a site in mind or ask that one be chosen for them. With guidance and support from the AAW Program, adopter activities can include cleanups, trail work, plantings and restoration work, plant and animal surveys, wildlife and bird watching, erecting nest boxes, monitoring water quality, removing invasive plants, monitoring reptiles, amphibians, fish and other invertebrates, habitat enhancement projects and more.

To learn more about the Adopt-A-Wetland Program and how you can adopt a wetland, please contact Program Coordinator Marlene Mervine at 302-735-8652 or email marlene.mervine@state.de.us.