Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Monticello, GA --(AmmoLand.com)- A USDA Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer was fatally shot Friday, March 5, at the Ocmulgee Bluff Equestrian Recreation Area on the Oconee Ranger District of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in Jasper County.

The officer, Christopher Arby Upton, 37, of Monroe, GA, was on routine patrol in the area about 11 p.m. Two individuals were hunting coyote with a high-powered rifle equipped with night vision and apparently mistook the officer for game. After the shooting, the hunters dialed 911 and reported a hunting incident.

“This is a tragic incident where the loss of a Federal officer’s life could have been avoided,” said Steven Ruppert, Special Agent-in-Charge for the Southern Region of the Forest Service. “This is a devastating loss for Chris’ family, our agency, other law enforcement officers and his friends and neighbors in Monroe.

“All of our thoughts and prayers are with his family,” Ruppert said. “The standard procedure for a hunter is to identify your target and then shoot,” said Homer Bryson, Law Enforcement Colonel for Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). “The hunter failed to do this, and mistook the officer for game. He then shot and instantly killed the officer.”

The shooter, Norman Clinton Hale, 40, McDonough, GA, and an observer, Clifford Allen McGouirk, 41, of Jackson, GA, were hunting coyotes. The incident investigation is being conducted jointly by the Forest Service and GDNR WRD and is ongoing.

Upton, a 4-year veteran of the Forest Service, had previously worked as a game warden for the Department of Defense, US Marine Corps, at Beaufort, South Carolina, and as a conservation officer, game warden and pilot with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. He is survived by his wife, Jessica, and a 4-year-old daughter, Annabelle. Arrangements are pending.

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USDA Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer Killed in Accidental Shooting

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. –-(AmmoLand.com)- Hunters donated 1,286 deer to the Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) Program during the 2009 hunting season, according to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). This was a bit higher than the 2008 seasons’ donation total (1,149).

“Thanks to generous West Virginia hunters who donated deer to the HHH Program, many needy West Virginians will receive highly nutritious meals this year,” said Jerry Westfall, Program Coordinator. “The DNR, along with their partners, The Mountaineer Food Bank and The Huntington Area Food Bank, truly appreciate the generosity shown by these hunters, and acknowledge that, without their help, this program could not exist.”

The DNR is reliant upon venison collection and distribution by Mountaineer Food Bank (Gassaway) and Huntington Area Food Bank. Two-pound packages of ground venison have been, and will continue to be, distributed to participating distribution centers such as food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers, community centers, churches, orphanages and other institutions, throughout the state. Although it is too late for non-enrolled centers to receive venison this season (because of the minimum 60-day application review process), those interested are encourage to enroll now so they may receive venison during the 2010 hunting seasons. Contact Mountaineer Food Bank at 304-364-5518 to discuss the application process needed to receive venison next season.

“Although the DNR is very grateful for hunter-donated deer, the HHH Program still requires monetary donations to offset processing and distribution costs,” said Westfall. The DNR is restricted from using sportsmen’s license dollars to fund this program, and is completely dependent upon donations from concerned individuals, businesses, conservation organizations, foundations, and churches.

“Without this donated funding, we simply could not continue the HHH Program,” said Westfall.

The DNR accepts monetary donations to the HHH Program year-round. Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation to the HHH Program should go to HHH Web page at: www.wvdnr.gov/Hunting/HHH.shtm, or contact Billie Shearer at 304-558-2771. Those wishing additional information on the HHH Program can contact Jerry Westfall at (304) 558-2771; jerry.a.westfall@wv.gov.

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Deer Donation Totals for the Hunters Helping the Hungry Program

Responsive Management

Harrisonburg, VA – -(AmmoLand.com)- Fish and wildlife agencies nationwide are under increasing pressure to respond to nuisance wildlife calls and situations. Yet many agencies receive no funding for these activities — it simply constitutes an added-on, unfunded responsibility.

The differences between the responses of Delaware residents and Division employees presented below reveal a common dilemma for many fish and wildlife agencies that involves wildlife management, funding, and public expectations: What level of involvement should fish and wildlife agencies have in managing nuisance wildlife?

In the survey, about 1 in 5 Delaware residents (22%) indicate that they have had problems with wild animals or birds in their neighborhood or around their home — that means that close to 150,000 Delaware residents experience such problems. The most common problem animals are deer, raccoons, opossums, birds, foxes, woodchucks or groundhogs, and squirrels. Common problems are damage to gardens, damage to yards, threat to humans, threat or harm to pets, getting into garbage, structural damage to homes or buildings, and agricultural damage.

Delaware residents were asked who they think should be most responsible for addressing nuisance wildlife problems in Delaware, and they could name more than one entity. A majority of residents named the Division (66% think the Division should be most responsible). Other commonly named entities include the property owners themselves (31%) and local or county governments (31%). Given the scenario that the Division would address nuisance wildlife in specific incidents, Delaware residents were asked if the Division should primarily provide advice and guidance only or provide services such as removal as well (or if the Division should provide both about equally). The large majority (75%) indicated that the Division should provide both about equally; otherwise, they are split between advice/guidance (12%) and services (10%). In this question, 85% of Delaware residents give an answer that entails the Division providing some removal services.

In follow-up, Delaware residents were presented with the scenario that the Division would provide removal services. Residents were then asked if they agree or disagree that the Division should charge a fee to do so, and they are evenly split: 46% agree, and 47% disagree.

Division employees were also asked if they agree or disagree that the Division should be responsible for the removal of nuisance wildlife, and a majority of employees (61%) disagree that the Division should be responsible for such removal.

In the same follow-up as the resident survey, employees were presented with the scenario that the Division would provide removal services. Employees were then asked if they agree or disagree that the Division should charge a fee to do so, and the large majority (80%) agree that the Division should charge a fee for such services.

Some fish and wildlife professionals feel that involvement with nuisance wildlife beyond simple technical assistance should not be the responsibility of the state fish and wildlife agency. Others feel that the issue should be embraced and that it represents an opportunity for additional funding and a way to connect the agency with urban and suburban residents. Some fish and wildlife professionals also feel that nuisance wildlife is a wildlife management issue that will not go away and should be dealt with by the agencies in some way.

Regardless of individual philosophy, agencies will have to deal with ever-increasing nuisance wildlife calls in one manner or another, and internal and external assessments such as this study can provide an important starting point for confronting new and non-traditional wildlife management issues

About:
Responsive Management is a public opinion survey research firm specializing in natural resource, wildlife, environmental, and outdoor recreation issues. Visit: www.responsivemanagement.com

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Dealing With Nuisance Wildlife Issues a New Challenges for Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(AmmoLand.com)- Researchers predict climate changes in Wisconsin, recyclers celebrate 20 years of recycling law, winter road crews share ways to keep make roads safer with less salt, and kids of all ages find a sweet treat in the February issue of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.

Longtime Wisconsinites believe they’ve seen it, and new research proves them right: the state’s climate is changing. In this issue, a team of scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies predict changes that could profoundly affect the state’s natural resources, economy and sense of place.

Then, a roundtable of some of the state’s top players in Wisconsin recycling recall how the law developed 20 years ago, discuss why recycling programs have been so successful, and speculate what recycling trends might create business opportunities in the future.

And with the cold and snow upon us, road crews are hoping new de-icers and carefully timed applications and calibrated equipment will give them a chance to keep roads clearer and safer with less salt.

A “Regional Reads” story offers suggestions to kick back and enjoy books about Wisconsin’s roots, routes and rituals, while a story on the MacKenzie Environmental Center in Poyette takes readers outdoors to get sticky and savor maple syrup making up-close.

The issue also contains three inserts: the annual reminder to Conservation Patrons to renew their licenses, a poster on ways to hone your recycling habits and a brochure highlighting how Wisconsin license and permit fees are spent.

Find it all in the February issue of Wisconsin Natural Resources. Let us deliver six colorful issues to your door all year for less than $1.50 a copy. All year long we share the hot spots at the hot times to enjoy the Wisconsin outdoors for only $8.97. Subscribe toll-free at 1-800-678-9472, online at [www.wnrmag.com] or by mail. Subscription blanks and single issues are also available from our circulation office at PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707.

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February Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine Available

Map depicting ducks banded in Saskatchewan and harvested in Iowa from 1923-2008.

Ducks Unlimited

DES MOINES, Iowa –-(AmmoLand.com)- Since 1973, Iowa duck hunters have harvested 8.3 million ducks, most of which according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates originated from the Prairie Pothole Region.

Throughout this 37-year period, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources has contributed over $1.1 million to support the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, which provides vital funding for habitat conservation work in Canada, a primary source of Iowa’s ducks.

“We commend the Iowa DNR for their commitment and significant contributions to conserve quality habitat in key areas of Canada. These areas provide critical breeding habitat for waterfowl that migrate through the state each year,” said Eric Lindstrom, Ducks Unlimited regional biologist.

The DNR’s investments are matched two-to-one by Ducks Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited Canada and leveraged with additional funding from North American Wetlands Conservation Act grants. With this international partnership, each dollar invested by Iowans is leveraged into over $5 of habitat conservation work in Canada.

“It is imperative to understand the importance of prairie Canada to waterfowl migration,” said Greg Drees, chair of Iowa DNR’s Natural Resource Commission. “When waterfowl grace Iowa wetlands each spring and autumn during their grand passage, many of these birds are bound for, or arriving from, life-giving Canadian sites. The Iowa DNR and many of its partners are committed to help sustain invaluable habitat conservation efforts in Canada.”

In January, the Iowa DNR renewed its commitment to keeping Iowa’s duck hunting heritage alive by committing $36,000 to DU’s state grants program that is working to conserve waterfowl habitat in the Lightning Creek region of Saskatchewan. These funds are derived from roughly 15 percent of Iowa’s migratory bird stamp sales. The state grants program represents a unique international funding partnership that preserves critical waterfowl habitat in Saskatchewan and other parts of Canada, while working towards achieving the goals of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

Recognized as a continentally important waterfowl breeding and staging area, Lightning Creek is comprised of 2.9 million acres including 31,000 acres of conserved habitat on over 200 DU Canada projects. Waterfowl harvest and band recovery data complied from 1923-2008 confirms that Saskatchewan, and the Lightning Creek region in particular, are the primary source of ducks harvested in Iowa (see map). The area averaged 250,000 individual wetland basins in May, which supported an estimated 603,909 breeding duck pairs in 2009.

Due to a lack of strong federal and provincial wetland protection policies, however, wetlands across Canada remain at risk of future drainage and degradation. “The future recovery of species of concern, like northern pintail, hinges greatly on our ability to protect and restore large contiguous blocks of grassland and wetland habitat and help advance positive agricultural policies throughout the region that benefit both producers and ducks,” Lindstrom said.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved nearly 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

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Iowa DNR Conserves Critical Habitat North Of The Border

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Annapolis, Md. –-(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife & Heritage Service’s Natural Heritage Program recently completed a review of the Threatened and Endangered Species List in Maryland.

As a result of this review, changes to the list are being proposed as published in the Maryland Register on January 15, 2010.

The proposed changes include adding 16 species of plants and animals to the list, revising the status of 4 species, and removing 8 species from the list.

A summary list of changes can be viewed at www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/.

Public comments on the proposed changes are being accepted until February 16, 2010. Please e-mail your comments to Glenn Therres gtherres@dnr.state.md.us or mail them to:

If you have any questions on the proposed changes, please contact either Glenn Therres (phone: 410-260-8572, email: gtherres@dnr.state.md.us) or Gwen Brewer (phone: 410-260-8558, email: gbrewer@dnr.state.md.us).

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

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Changes Proposed to the Maryland Threatened and Endangered Species List

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. --(AmmoLand.com)- The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section is requesting original wildlife art for the 2011 edition of the award-winning DNR Wildlife Calendar, according to Curtis Taylor, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the Division of Natural Resources.

The deadline for submission of artwork is Feb. 15, 2010. A 35-mm color slide or a high resolution electronic image of each entry must be submitted by this date. Artists may send in multiple entries.

“This is our 26th calendar and it offers a wonderful opportunity for artists to feature their work. Besides distribution in West Virginia, our calendars are enjoyed by people all over the United States and are sent to countries around the world,” Taylor said.

Artists are encouraged to submit paintings of a wide variety of wildlife topics. These may depict popular game and fish species, landscapes, or feature the state’s diverse array of wildlife. Paintings depicting lesser-known animals such as snakes, frogs, turtles, salamanders, bats, songbirds, small mammals as well as nongame fish are also encouraged.

Artists are reminded that the calendar format is horizontal with measurements of 14 inches by 11 inches and should keep this ratio in mind when creating paintings. Paintings not chosen in previous years may be resubmitted.

“Just because the artwork is not selected one year, doesn’t mean it will not be selected in the future,” Taylor said. “Often, there are several submissions of a particular species or season and only one can be used in a given year.”

“We encourage all artists, especially those from West Virginia, to submit their work,” said Taylor.

A $100 prize is awarded for every month’s painting and $500 for the cover. Paintings are chosen based on overall composition and quality, along with anatomical and contextual accuracy. The quality of the submitted slide or electronic image is very important for judging the artwork.

The 2010 West Virginia Wildlife Calendar, featuring a male turkey on the cover, is available at WVDNR District Offices, newsstands, convenience marts and retail food stores throughout the state. For a listing of retail stores that sell the calendar visit www.wvdnr.gov/Wildlife/WildlifeCalendar.

To obtain 2011 calendar art rules or to purchase a 2010 calendar, please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Wildlife Calendar Art, P.O. Box 67, Elkins, WV 26241, phone 304-637-0245. Make checks payable to WVDNR in the amount of $14 for each calendar, which includes shipping and handling (W.Va. residents add $.60 for tax). Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover are also accepted.

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WVDNR Seeks Paintings for 2011 Wildlife Calendar

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia - -(AmmoLand.com)- The West Virginia Division of Natural Resource’s Wildlife Resources Section (DNR) will host an Archery in the Schools (AIS) Program training Jan 19-20, 2010, at the Gander Mountain Store in South Charleston, according to Jerry Westfall, DNR’s AIS Program Coordinator.

“Gander Mountain has always been committed to getting our youth involved in the outdoors,” said Greg Walls, Store Manager for Gander Mountain. “We’ve seen the success and growth of the DNR’s AIS Program with the number of kids coming into our archery department, and we are happy to be assisting schools in the Kanawha Valley, and elsewhere, by hosting this training.”

The AIS Program is the DNR’s largest and fastest growing educational program. Since its inception in 2004, approximately 40,000 students have been introduced to archery as part of their physical education (PE) classes in 199 West Virginia schools. The program teaches Olympic-style, target archery in both public and private school’s Grade 4-12 PE classes.

“However, in order for schools to have the AIS Program, they must first have a certified instructor – preferably a PE instructor or coach who will introduce as many kids as possible to the joys of target archery,” said Westfall. “The DNR has about four trainings a year; and, because class size is limited to 25, training slots are highly sought after. To ensure a training slot, we encourage PE teachers and coaches to apply as soon as possible, before the Jan. 8 deadline.”

As an added incentive, teachers taking this training may be eligible to receive Continuing Education Hours (CEH’s).

Please note this training will cost $25 for all school employees and $50 for non-school employees. This fee will be paid to WVDNR – Archery in the Schools Program (via check, money order, or exact currency only) during the first morning of the training.

To register for the AIS training at the Gander Mountain Store in South Charleston, please call Billie Shearer at 304-558-2771; e-mail billieshearer@wvdnr.gov.

For general information on the AIS Program, you can visit the DNR’s AIS Web site at www.wvdnr.gov/archery or call DNR’s AIS Program Coordinator Jerry Westfall at 304-558-2771; email jerrywestfall@wvdnr.gov.

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Archery in the Schools Program Training to be held at Gander Mountain Store

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia --(AmmoLand.com)- Preliminary data collected from game checking stations across the state indicate deer hunters in West Virginia harvested 62,491 bucks during the two-week buck firearms season, which ran from Nov. 23 through Dec. 5, according to Division of Natural Resources Director Frank Jezioro.

The 2009 buck harvest was 7 percent less than the 2008 harvest of 67,365. The top ten counties for buck harvest were as follows: Jackson (2,493), Lewis (2,215), Preston (2,123), Roane (2,116), Mason (2,105), Ritchie (1,979), Braxton (1,896), Randolph (1,896), Greenbrier (1,896) and Wood (1,853).

This year’s buck kill is somewhat lower than last year, primarily as a result of a decline in the buck harvest in DNR Districts 1 and 2, which encompass the northern and northeastern counties of the state. The harvest was similar to last year in the remaining four DNR districts. Overall, the 2009 harvest increased in 16 counties and declined in 35 counties (see accompanying chart. If you cannot read it in your e-mail reader, go to the “News” section of the WVDNR Web site at www.wvdnr.gov ).

Wildlife biologists will analyze data from the combined 2009 deer seasons (i.e. buck, antlerless, archery and muzzleloader) before making appropriate recommendations for next year’s deer seasons. These recommendations will be available for public review at 12 regulations meetings scheduled for March 15 and 16, 2010 (see current 2009-10 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary page 5 or visit the DNR Web site at www.wvdnr.gov for scheduled times and places).

White-tailed deer are a product of the environment. Too many deer on a given tract of land will result in loss of body weight, reduction in antler development, decrease in reproduction and sometimes death due to starvation during winter months. Over time, these declines in herd condition will actually reduce the deer herd’s resiliency to poor mast conditions and harsh winter weather.

Jezioro reminds hunters that the traditional six-day antlerless deer season in selected counties on both public and private land ends Saturday, Dec. 12. Muzzleloader deer season begins December 14 and runs through Dec. 19. The Youth and Class Q/QQ antlerless deer season will be open on Saturday and Monday, Dec. 26 and 28 in any county with a firearms deer season.

This will be followed by a three-day reopening of antlerless deer season (Dec. 29-31) in 45 counties or portions of counties and on selected wildlife management areas (see 2009-10 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary or visit the DNR Web site at www.wvdnr.gov for county and area listings).

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Deer Hunters in West Virginia Harvest 62,491 Bucks

Whitetails Unlimited

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- Whitetails Unlimited sent a letter today to members of Wisconsin’s Natural Resources Board, opposing an expanded 16-day gun deer hunt in Wisconsin in 2010.

“There is always tension between hunters and DNR regulators, and we understand that,” said Whitetails Unlimited President Jeff Schinkten. “But the results of the 2009 gun deer season show that hunter numbers were down in Wisconsin, and the number of bucks killed was at a 25-year low for the second straight year. Until we can get a handle on the true deer population in Wisconsin, we need to hold off on the 16-day gun season.”

Schinkten also pointed out that car-deer accidents have had a dramatic and steady decline for the last five years, and a survey of WTU members showed a large gap between opinions of Wisconsin hunters and the opinions of DNR policymakers.

“Whitetails Unlimited has been a strong partner with DNR agencies across the country, working on programs in support of regulated hunting,” said Schinkten. “That will not change. In fact, there is an agenda item for the next NRB meeting that is a donation from our Flambeau Chapter for habitat work in the Upper Chippewa Wildlife Management Area. However, we don’t want to see the number of hunters drop, and when those numbers drop in Wisconsin, where deer hunting is a passion, we get concerned. DNR policy can have a huge effect on hunter satisfaction, and we just want a common-sense approach to wildlife management.”

*********************************************
The text of the letter to the NRB is as follows:

To: Members, Wisconsin Natural Resources Board
From: Whitetails Unlimited
Date: December 3, 2009

The Wisconsin DNR has a tremendous responsibility in managing the natural resources of the state, and it comes as no surprise that deer hunters in the state are very passionate about their sport. While there may always be tension between hunters and policymakers, the divergence of opinion in recent years has led to a level of tension that is actually damaging the sport.

After seeing the preliminary numbers of license sales and deer kills for the 2009 season, it is obvious that the hunting public is increasingly dissatisfied. This problem will get worse if the DNR continues under the existing philosophy, methods and goals.

Whitetails Unlimited is very concerned about the future of deer hunting in the state, and urges the DNR to fully evaluate all data, and to listen to deer hunters in establishing future hunting seasons and regulations.

The fact that Wisconsin has had two consecutive years of buck kills at 25-year lows, and a reduction of the total number of deer hunters this year, are troubling indications that Wisconsin hunters are joining in the decline in hunting popularity. While there can be many reasons for the decline in hunters, it is undeniable that DNR policies can be a major factor in hunter satisfaction, and that the DNR needs to be responsive to those who provide a major funding source for their operations.

Whitetails Unlimited is the nation’s largest organization of deer hunters, and we take our mission of “Preserving an American tradition” very seriously. Our national headquarters is located in Wisconsin, and Wisconsin is the state with our largest number of members. When we conducted a survey of our Wisconsin members this year, their opinion was overwhelming that they believe there are fewer deer than DNR estimates, and they oppose many DNR policies. Anecdotal opinions of WTU staff, friends, and family members, hunting all over the state, agree with our members. We are very concerned that the DNR is damaging their credibility by continuing with policies that are not believed or supported, and even actively opposed, by hunters in the state.

I am not a biologist, but it seems like a common-sense approach is needed, rather than the drastic changes in season length that have been proposed. This is based on back-to-back seasons of buck kills at 25-year lows, a steady and dramatic reduction in car/deer accidents over the last five years, and hunters refusing to go deer hunting.

We understand the difficulty of trying to estimate and manage a population of wild animals, months and months in the future, but the solid numbers of this past deer season need to be incorporated into the evaluation, and are significant enough to warrant the DNR to revisit decisions made earlier this year.

Whitetails Unlimited has a long history in working with the DNR, in Wisconsin and many other states, in projects and programs that advance regulated hunting, and this will not change. However, we cannot stand silently when we feel that actions by the DNR will result in fewer deer hunters enjoying an American tradition.

For the record, Whitetails Unlimited is opposed to lengthening the traditional nine-day gun season, based on the information detailed above. We urge the DNR to get a firm handle on the deer population numbers before making drastic changes to deer hunting regulations.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Schinkten
President, Whitetails Unlimited

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

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Whitetails Unlimited Opposes 16-day Deer Season in 2010

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- The close of the nine-day gun deer hunt also signals the opening of the 10-day, muzzleloader deer hunt that runs from Nov. 30 through Dec. 9. The muzzleloader hunt is statewide with the exception of most state parks. There is also an ongoing deer hunting season through Dec. 9 in designated metropolitan, or metro, units due to higher deer populations near some urban areas. Check the current deer hunting regulations for details.

Following the muzzleloader hunt is a four-day antlerless deer hunt running Dec. 10 through 13 statewide except in state parks and in Menominee County.

“The later seasons generally are more relaxed and less crowded,” said Keith Warnke, big game ecologist for the Department of Natural Resources. “It’s a quieter time in the woods that many hunters find enjoyable and it extends the hunting season.”

The late archery deer season also started on Nov. 30 and runs through Jan. 3, 2010. Archers and small game hunters are reminded that they must observe blaze orange clothing requirements during the muzzleloader and December antlerless deer hunt seasons.

License sales officials say there are unit-specific antlerless deer tags are still available for some regular units for $12 each. Antlerless deer tags for herd control units and earn-a-buck units are available for $3 each.

Visit the deer hunting pages of the DNR Web site for details on license requirements, permit availability, bag limits and harvest rules. For additional questions call the toll free 1-888-WDNR-INFo (888-936-7463) line for answers. The line is staffed 7a.m. to 10 p.m. 7-days per week

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Keith Warnke – (608) 264-6035

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Muzzleloader Season Underway – December Antlerless Deer Season Ahead

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- Turkey hunters are reminded that turkey management zones have been consolidated. The number of turkey hunting zones has been reduced to seven large zones instead of the previous 46-zone structure. There is still the same amount of total turkey hunting area. Each of the new zones combine a number of the smaller zones to give hunters more flexibility to move about in search of wild turkeys.

The 2010 spring turkey season officially begins with the April 10-11 Spring Turkey Youth Hunt. The regular turkey season begins on April 14 and consists of six, 5-day time periods that end on May 23.

The drawing for permits will take place in late January-early February. Successful permit applicants can expect to receive a postcard by mid-February.

Permit winners may then purchase their required 2010 spring turkey license (Resident $15; Nonresident $60) and turkey stamp ($5.25) or bear license ($49). Conservation Patrons and Senior Citizen Recreation Card holders do not need to purchase a turkey license or turkey stamp. A carcass tag will be printed at the time of purchase

Permits remaining after the initial drawing for spring turkey will be issued for sale one zone per day on a first-come first-served basis after March 10, 2010 at a date to be specified later.

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Wisconsin Spring 2010 Turkey Season

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- Turkey and black bear hunters have until close of business Dec. 10 to apply for available permits for the 2010 spring turkey season and the 2010 black bear season.

Final permit levels for the spring turkey hunting season are set at 225,420 total permits (not including State Park & Disabled Only Hunting Zones). This is a slight increase from 225,120 total permits available for the 2009 spring season.

Total permit availability for the 2010 black bear season has not been determined yet. It is possible there will be more permits available for 2010. Permit levels will be taken up by the state Natural Resources Board at its Jan. 27-28 meeting.

Hunters registered 3,907 black bears in 2009. This number is preliminary and likely will change when all registration stubs are collected and entered. Hunters registered 2,955 bears in 2008.

Applications for each of these two permit drawings cost $3 and may be purchased at all authorized license agents, through the Online Licensing Center of the DNR Web site, Wisconsin DNR Service Centers, or by calling toll free 1-877-LICENSE (1-877-945-4236). Applications postmarked after the Dec. 10 deadline or filled out incorrectly will not be considered for the drawing.

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2010 Spring Turkey, Black Bear Permit Application Deadline Dec 10

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- There were no confirmed fatal shooting incidents recorded during the first two days of the hunt but there were five non-fatal firearms-related incidents, reports DNR Hunter Education Administrator Tim Lawhern.

“We are grateful these five incidents were not fatal and wish a speedy recovery to the victims, but the fact remains that all five could have been prevented if strict firearm safety rules had been observed by the shooters and by the victims who wounded themselves.”

Three woundings occurred on Saturday. In Grant County a hunters was struck in the back of the leg by shrapnel when a hunting companion’s gun discharged into the door of a vehicle as he attempted to unload the gun.

In Price County, a hunter suffered a self-inflicted wound in the left hand from a handgun, and in Green County a hunter sustained a gunshot wound to his leg when he slipped crossing a stream on a log and his shotgun discharged

On Sunday a Barron County hunter was wounded in the thigh by a bullet, and in St Croix County a hunter sustained a self-inflicted gunshot would to the right hand from a .30-30 caliber rifle.

Hunter Safety Administrator Tim Lawhern noted that historically about half of Wisconsin’s shooting incidents happen during deer drives, usually because someone wasn’t where they were supposed to be or someone shot at a deer when they did not have a safe backstop or in a direction they should not have been shooting.

“It is really important that hunting parties wanting to drive deer have a plan and that they follow that plan to the letter. Knowing where your hunting mates are and where safe shooting lanes are is critical,” he said.

Statistically, about half the hunting incidents happen during opening weekend.

“I am hoping we buck that statistic and can avoid further incidents this year,” Lawhern said. “Compared to the ‘good ole’ days,’ hunting is safe and getting safer. In 1915, of the state’s 155,000 hunters then, 24 were killed and 26 were injured. That meant 1 in about 3,100 hunters could expect to be killed or injured. Today it’s 1 in 100,000 or better. Still any shooting incident is one too many. Hunters need to remember the shooting TAB-K safety rules and be careful with deer drives later this week,” he said.

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WI DNR Reports 5 Hunting Injuries out of 626,404 Hunters

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- DNR Secretary Matt Frank visited several registration stations along the I-39, Saturday morning.

“At the stations I visited it was really gratifying seeing our next generation of hunters taking their place,” said Frank. “I especially enjoyed the chance to visit with the youngsters who brought in their first deer. Congratulations to all hunters for keeping our heritage strong. I wish them all success and an enjoyable and safe hunting experience during the remainder of the seasons.”

The department’s license sales office reported 626,404 hunters hit the woods with a license to participate in the 2009 nine-day gun deer season. The number of gun hunting licenses included a new category this year, 9,592 10- and 11-year-old hunters who for the first time were able to participate as mentored hunters under Wisconsin’s new Mentored Hunting Law.

Deer license and tag sales will continue through the hunting seasons.

The long custom of buying a license on the way to deer camp is also intact. Over 43 percent – nearly half – of all deer hunters purchased a license in the eight days preceding the gun deer opener; 82,463 licenses were sold on Friday.

At peak, which occurred at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, the DNR’s online licensing system – known as ALIS – was processing 212 transactions per minute

Nearly 270,000 licenses were issued in the eight days preceding the season opener.

Of the hunters hitting the woods on Saturday:

• 592,287 (95 percent) were residents and 34,117 were nonresidents;
• More than 79,000 youth hunters under 18 years old participated in this year’s hunt, representing 13 percent of the total number of deer hunters;
• More than 54,000 hunters were age 65 or older, and over 191,000 (31 percent) are under 30-years-old;
• Females represent 8.5 percent of the total hunters, and 20 percent of new 10- and 11-year-old hunters;
• Hunters throughout the U.S. and several foreign countries purchased a Wisconsin gun deer license. The highest number of nonresident hunters came from Minnesota (16,413),
• Illinois (8,568), Michigan (1,078), and Florida (898);
• The most deer licenses were sold in Dane County (29,024), with Brown, Washington,
• Marathon and Waukesha counties following;
• More than 170,000 antlerless deer tags have been sold this year.

Wisconsin Conservation Congress delegates also shared their experiences over the weekend.

Scott McCauley, Conservation Congress delegate from Wood County was hunting in Waupaca County and noted that for his party opening day was off to a promising start.

“Last year we had our best season ever taking nine deer. This year is looking even better with five people taking three deer and the season is just starting,” said McCauley.

Mike Riggle, Conservation Congress delegate from Taylor County called in, “Seven in camp now, including 11-year-old Austin Riggle hunting for his first time as a mentored hunter. Austin didn’t see anything but enjoyed being in camp and will be out again having a good time.”

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Enthusiasm For Hunting Remains High

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- Warm temperatures and heavy fog in many areas greeted hunters on the opening weekend of Wisconsin’s 158th gun deer hunt. Hunters participating in the traditional November 9-day gun deer hunt registered a preliminary tally of 100,330 deer over the first two days of the hunt.

The 2009 preliminary count compares to a similar opening weekend count of 133,828 from 2008. Buck harvest statewide in 2009 was 49,583 (52,477 in 2008) and antlerless harvest was 50,478 (81,351 in 2008)

“We want to remind folks that these preliminary numbers come from a staff call-around to deer registrations stations this morning,” said Tom Hauge DNR’s wildlife management director. “The final opening weekend tally will likely be somewhat larger, when all the registration stubs are entered into the data base over the next couple of months.”

A breakdown of the harvest by DNR Region and county is available in portable document format.

This fall, wildlife staff indicated that they expected lower total harvest numbers – especially antlerless deer harvest numbers – due to several factors including lower deer numbers in many areas of the state, fewer herd control units and no earn-a-buck units outside of the chronic wasting disease management zone.

“There was pretty dense fog until 10-11:00 a.m. opening morning,” reported Kris Belling DNR West Central Region wildlife expert. “The fog coupled with wet conditions, made it hard to hear anything coming and definitely impacted the morning hunt. Hunters I talked to (in West Central Region) enjoyed the mild temperatures and it was comfortable enough for them to stay out hunting, and that seems to have offset the original difficulties due to the fog. Overall, it was just a nice week-end to be out. Lots of interest in getting the deer butchered quickly.”

However, the weather improved later in the day.

“Those deer are still out there,” said Keith Warnke, DNR big game ecologist. “Many folks take this week off leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday and given the slower start to the season, there should continue to be good opportunity out there in many areas. There is still a lot of hunting left.”

As of early Monday afternoon, 571 “opening weekend” hunting trip reports have been recorded on the department’s new online reporting database. Hunters reported seeing 796 total deer on those trips which translates to an average of 1.39 deer per trip. These numbers will also likely change as trip reports were still coming in at a rapid pace. Hunters wish to report their hunting experiences can do so from the DNR website.

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Hunters Register 100,330 Deer Opening Weekend Of 2009 Season

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Annapolis, MD — -(AmmoLand.com)- Maryland State Parks and other public lands managed by the State will be closed during service reduction days for the 2009 holiday season, as part of the State’s Furlough and Temporary Salary Reduction Plan.

Public use parking lots, buildings and other facilities at State Parks will not be available on those days. State parks will remain open on Thanksgiving, Native American Appreciation Day and New Years Day.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Regional Service Centers will be closed from Wednesday, November 25 through the Thanksgiving weekend. Offices will reopen on Monday, November 29 at 8:30 a.m. Recreational licenses can be purchased from any designated sport license agent location (http://dnr.maryland.gov/service/netag2.asp) or online at https://www3.wildlifelicense.com/md/.

• The Maryland State Park Holiday closing schedule is as follows:
• November 25 (the day before Thanksgiving) –State service reduction day
• December 24 (Christmas Eve) –State service reduction day
• December 25 (Christmas Day) – Holiday
• December 31 (New Years Eve) – State service reduction day

The Regional Service Center Holiday closing schedule is as follows:

• November 25 through November 29- State service reduction day and Thanksgiving weekend
• December 24 through December 27- State service reduction day and Christmas weekend
• December 31 through January 3- State service reduction day and New Years weekend

All State Park camping and cabin reservations will be honored on those days. Law enforcement personnel (Maryland Park Service Rangers and Natural Resources Police) will be on duty during the holidays and service reduction days.

In addition to regular holidays (Thanksgiving, Native American Appreciation Day, Christmas and New Years Day), all DNR offices will be closed on service reduction days (November 25, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve) as well.

For more information on State Parks visit to http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/

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Maryland DNR Announces Holiday Schedule

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wisconsin – -(AmmoLand.com)- Early dense fog dampened some areas of the state on the opening day of Wisconsin’s 2009 nine-day gun deer season, but hunters enjoyed balmy weather throughout much of the day that some thought was just a little too good.

In some areas the fog didn’t burn off until mid morning. But the remainder of the day was calm, with temperatures in the 50s. One of the questions hunters were asked this year on the registration stub for the first time was to rate the weather. Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Supervisor Tim Lizotte said some hunters were giving conditions a 10 to 11 on a 10-point scale.

Alan Crossley, DNR wildlife biologist also working the registration station, said “it’s kind of funny. If hunters shot a nice buck, they tended to rate the weather as a “10.”

Wildlife managers at registration stations, especially in former earn-a-buck areas, were reporting a large percentage of older bucks, many with nice antler development. In many areas, deer appeared to still be in rut, or their mating season, in many areas. Tom Hauge, director of the DNR Wildlife Management program, was able to watch two bucks sparring for about 10 minutes. At another station, a 7-year old buck was registered with antlers badly damaged from recent sparring.

Jeff Pritzl, DNR wildlife expert aging deer in Northeast Region, recounted his favorite story of the morning: “A young boy on his first nine-day hunt shot a nine-point, 185-pound buck. The boy said his father had taught him that if he saw a doe that kept looking back, don’t shoot, because a buck was following her. Sure enough, he saw a doe that kept looking back, he waited and the buck came into view. Though the young hunter landed a good shot, the buck moved away and he and his dad spent the next two hours searching the wetland. The dad found the deer, and called his son, teary with pride.”

DNR Secretary Matt Frank, visiting with hunters registering deer in Montello, Westfield, Wautoma and Portage this morning, noted hunters were in good spirits, including one young girl registering her first buck at Wautoma.

“This is a great Wisconsin tradition, and it’s just plain fun visiting with hunters and hearing their stories. Tomorrow, I will be out hunting myself. DNR is committed to maintaining a healthy deer herd so that we can enjoy deer hunting for many generations to come.”

Jim Shurts, Wisconsin Conservation Congress delegate chair from Dane County, registered his deer this morning. He was hunting in Columbia County east of Wyocena and heard more shooting than in the last few years. In one of those rare outdoors experiences, Shurts said a large flock of turkeys roosting near him gobbled loudly every time they heard a shot.

License Sales

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Fog Shrouds Early Morning Of Wisconsin Deer Season

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin – -(AmmoLand.com)- By late afternoon Saturday, DNR Hunter Safety Administrator Tim Lawhern had been notified of two shooting incidents, both non-fatal.

A male hunter in Grant County was shot just below the buttocks, reportedly when a nearby hunter was unloading his gun. A hunter in Green County received a shotgun wound to the thigh; it was not self-inflicted. No other details were available at time of publishing.

Lawhern notes that every shooting incident can be traced back to hunters failing to follow the four basic firearm rules.

“Every hunter – no matter the level of experience or years in the woods – should have these rules so engrained they are automatic,” Lawhern said. “Review these and review them with your hunting friends. It’s in your best interest and theirs. Make these rules your habits.”

The four rules are:

• Treat every firearm as if it is loaded should be a habit.
• Always point the muzzle in a safe direction at all times.
• Be certain of your target and what is beyond it.
• Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.

Wardens wrote citations on opening day for illegal baiting, loaded firearms in vehicles and other violations, but no serious incidents were reported. A hunter in Clark County was cited after he cut down 25 pine trees on county property to improve a “shooting lane.” Another hunter was arrested and booked into jail for carrying a firearm while legally intoxicated.

Detailed Regional Reports are available on the Wisconsin DNR Web site.

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Two Shooting Incidents Reported During Wisconsin Deer Hunting Opening Day

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin – -(AmmoLand.com)- Operators at DNR’s call center began receiving calls at 7 a.m. Saturday morning from tree stands, deer camps and hunters afield. Questions ranged from, “Can I still buy a license” and “What is my hunter ed. number,” to one hunter saying that as the fog lifted, a bunch of cows appeared and were loose on state land. He wanted DNR let other hunters know so that none got shot by accident.

On Friday, the DNR call center bested its daily record by more than 500, answering 2,591 calls. During the week prior to the opener, customer service staff received 10,140 calls and 588 internet chats. The call center expects to handle over 260,000 calls this year, with approximately one-third of calls received on nights and weekends.

“It’s been really busy in the call center, and we love it. We’ve got a great staff just as excited about this season as the hunters are, and we’re here for you if you have a question,” said Customer Service Director Diane Brookbank.

Call center staff are available to serve customers from 7 a.m. through 10 p.m., seven days a week by calling 1-888-WDNR INFo (1-888-936-7463) or online at [dnr.wi.gov]. Spanish and Hmong service is available.

DNR call center staff manning the poacher hotline were also kept busy Saturday with reports of baiting violations, hunters shooting from the road, and ATV’s on public land. Hunters wishing to report a violation can call 24 hours a day and seven days a week at 1(800)TIP-WDNR [800-847-9367] or cell #367.

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Wisconsin DNR Call Center Sets Record For Calls

Maryland Black Bears

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

OAKLAND, MD —-(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the conclusion of the 2009 black bear hunting season.

The season opened Monday, October 26 in Garrett and Allegany counties. The hunt was officially closed Thursday, October 29, at 9:00 p.m. with 68 bears reported to mandatory check stations in Western Maryland.

Harry Spiker, Game Mammal Section Leader for DNR’s Wildlife & Heritage Service, said “The 2009 bear hunt was an unqualified success. Despite marginal weather conditions most of the week, our harvest range of 60-85 bears was met in four days. The hunt remains a safe, effective, well-regulated and scientifically sound tool for sustainably managing our bear population.”

Spiker added, “The new permit application preference point system proved effective this year. More than 3,600 hunters applied for one of the 240 available bear hunting permits and 81% of the permits were awarded to applicants with one or more preference points”.

The average estimated live weight of the bears taken this year was 140 lbs. The largest bear of the season was a 409 lb. male taken by Wayne Chenoweth of Westminster, MD.

The hunt by the numbers:

• Harvest goal: 60-85 bears
• 68 bears taken
• 60 from Garrett County, 8 from Allegany County
• 140 lbs. average weight
• 74% of the bears were taken on private land
• 4 bears were previously tagged and treated as nuisance bears
• 552 hunters participated in the hunt and 3,608 hunters applied for a permit

For more information about Maryland’s black bears visit www.DNR.MD.gov/Wildlife.

About:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 461,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland’s effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov.

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Maryland Black Bear Hunt Closed

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wisconsin - People interested in volunteering to help locate and count gray wolves and other forest carnivores in the coming year can learn how at a series of upcoming training sessions.

In Wisconsin wolves are a protected wild animal under state law, and due to court action on July 1, 2009, are again an endangered species under federal law.

Volunteer trackers are assigned survey blocks in forest portions of northern and central Wisconsin, and are asked to conduct three or more surveys in their assigned block each winter. Information they gather can be compiled with that of other volunteers to aid Department of Natural Resources biologists in evaluating wolf populations.

Wolf and Carnivore Tracker Training sessions are scheduled:

• Nov. 7, Ashland, Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, Highway 2 & G, west of Ashland.
• Dec. 5, Babcock, Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, 1 mile north of Highway 173 along County Road X.
• Dec. 5-6, Grantsburg, Crex Meadow Visitor Center, along County Highway D, 1 mile north of Grantsburg.
• Dec. 12, Tomahawk, Treehaven UW-Stevens Point Field Station on Pickerel Creek Road off County A.

Training sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Applicants should register as soon as possible because space is limited. Please try to register at least two weeks before each session. There is a small fee for the classes. The training at Crex Meadows near Grantsburg on Dec. 5-6 will be by world renowned tracker, Dr. James Halfpenny. Cost of the workshop has yet to be determined.

Details about the volunteer tracking program and the wolf ecology and tracking training sessions are available on the Department of Natural Resources Web site.

In late winter 2009 DNR biologists counted between 626 and 662 wolves in the state, including 599 or more outside Indian reservations. As of early fall, 62 wolves were being radio tracked by Wisconsin DNR pilots. Normally about one-third of the state packs are monitored by radio-telemetry, the remaining packs are monitored by DNR and volunteer trackers.

In 2009, 174 volunteer trackers surveyed 88, 200-square-mile survey blocks covering 8,062 miles of snow-covered roads and trails. Volunteers averaged 4.2 surveys per block, covering 91.6 miles, conducting 15 hours of tracking per block, and detected more than 367 different wolves.

“With the continued spread of the state wolf population and reduced funding for surveys, the volunteer carnivore tracking program is critical for us to obtain accurate counts of the state wolf population,” said Adrian Wydeven, DNR mammal ecologist who coordinates the state wolf program. “These surveys will continue to be important for long-term conservation of wolves and other forest carnivores in Wisconsin.”

Volunteers are also helpful in other ways, Wydeven said. Last fall, several volunteers conducted hunter outreach in the field and made contacts with deer hunters across several northern counties. During the spring volunteers helped with wolf trapping, radio collaring, donations of radio collars, and howl surveys as well as staffing educational booths at sport shows and other events.

Volunteers are also strongly encouraged to take a wolf ecology course if they have not done so already, and biologists recommend taking the ecology course before signing up for track training workshops. Wolf ecology courses will be offered next year on the following dates at the locations listed.

• Jan. 23-24, Babcock – Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, Babcock, $75 (includes 2 meals & dorm lodging). Contact Dick Thiel at Richard.Thiel@wisconsin.gov
• Jan. 30-31, Fall Creek – Beaver Creek Reserve, cost $70 contact the Beaver Creek Reserve at bcr@beavercreekreserve.org
• Jan. 30-31, Tomahawk – Treehaven, cost $105-$140 (includes meals; opt. lodging), contact Treehaven at treehaven@uwsp.edu
• Feb. 20-21, Babcock – Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, cost $75 (includes 2 meals & dorm lodging), contact Dick Thiel at Richard.Thiel@wisconsin.gov
• Feb. 27-28, Tomahawk – Treehaven, cost $105-$140 (includes meals; opt. lodging), contact Treehaven at treehaven@uwsp.edu

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Adrian Wydeven – (715) 762-1363

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Volunteers Needed To Help Monitor Wolf Populations In Wisconsin

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Annapolis, Md. --(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds Marylanders that cooling temperatures will encourage black bears to begin a period of increased feeding activity prior to hibernation.

During this time, bears may be attracted to human-provided food sources such as trash, pet food and birdfeeders. Bears exploiting human-provided food may lose their natural fear of people, potentially leading to encounters and conflicts.

“The best way to avoid problems is to keep your trash, birdseed and pet food in a place where bears can’t get to it,” said DNR Game Mammal Section Leader Harry Spiker. “Taking preventative steps now will help reduce potential bear problems in the future.”

Bears may travel many miles searching for food in the Fall. Motorists traveling in Maryland’s western counties are reminded to watch for bears crossing roads, especially during October and November.

Also, citizens should delay feeding songbirds until the winter months to avoid attracting bears. Bears in Maryland will begin entering dens in mid-November and most are denned by mid-December.

To learn more about Maryland’s black bears, visit www.dnr.maryland.gov and click on the Wildlife and Heritage Service link or contact a Wildlife and Heritage Service staff person in the western region at 301-777-2136 or statewide at 410-260-8540.

About:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 461,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland’s effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov

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Black Bear Activity Increases In The Fall

West Virginia DNR

BECKLEY, W.Va. –-(AmmoLand.com)- The next instructor training for the popular Archery in the Schools Program (AIS) will be held Dec. 8 and 9 at JBC Archery Center in Shady Spring (near Beckley), according to Jerry Westfall, AIS Program Coordinator for the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR).

“It has been quite some time since we held a training session in the Beckley area,” said Westfall. “And thanks to the cooperation of the JBC Archery Center and owner Chuck Frye, we can once again provide AIS training to area physical education teachers and coaches, as well as others from around the state. We are very excited about the potential expansion of the AIS program by involving schools not yet participating. Based on the interest we have received so far, and the number of local schools, this training should be quite successful.”

The AIS Program is the DNR’s largest and fastest growing educational program. Since its inception in 2004, more than 35,000 students have been introduced to archery as part of their physical education (PE) classes in 199 West Virginia schools. The program teaches Olympic-style target archery in both public and private school’s grade four-12 PE classes.

“But in order for schools to have the AIS Program, they must first have a certified instructor – preferably a PE instructor or coach who will introduce as many kids as possible to the joys of target archery,” said Westfall. “The DNR has about four trainings a year; and, because class size is limited to 25, training slots are highly sought after. To ensure a training slot, we encourage PE teachers and coaches to apply as soon as possible.” The deadline to sign up for the training is Nov. 25. As an added incentive, teachers taking this training may be eligible to receive Continuing Education Hours (CEHs).

This training will cost $25 for all school employees and $50 for non-school employees. This fee will be paid to WVDNR – Archery in the Schools Program via check, money order, or exact currency during the first morning of the training.

To register for the AIS training at JBC Archery in Shady Spring, please call Billie Shearer at 304-558-2771; e-mail billieshearer@wvdnr.gov. For general information on the AIS Program, you can visit the DNR’s AIS Web site at www.wvdnr.gov/archery or call DNR’s AIS Program Coordinator Jerry Westfall at 304-558-2771; e-mail jerrywestfall@wvdnr.gov.

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Archery In The Schools Program Training To Be Held

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – -(AmmoLand.com)-The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources predicts a slightly higher harvest of wild turkeys during the 2009 fall hunting season compared to the fall 2008 harvest of 1,206, according to Paul Johansen, Assistant Chief in Charge of Game Management for DNR. This prediction is based upon the increased number of turkey broods reported in July and field notes reported by cooperators in the 2009 West Virginia Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook.

“The poor and spotty mast conditions reported this fall will tend to concentrate birds, and wildlife biologists expect many flocks to be out feeding in open fields or along field borders,” Johansen predicted. “These factors will serve to make birds more accessible to hunters and vulnerable to harvest.”

The spotty hard mast production found in the Eastern Panhandle and mountain counties should concentrate turkeys in areas where the beech and oak mast “hit.” This concentration of turkeys around available food sources in the traditional fall-hunted counties will provide turkey hunters with greater opportunities for success.

Wildlife biologists expect the fall turkey harvest in the mountain counties to be up slightly, while the fall harvest in the Eastern Panhandle is expected to be similar to last year’s numbers. The non-traditional fall-hunted counties found in the Northern Panhandle and along the Ohio River Valley are also expected to see fall turkey harvests similar to last year.

Hunters should be aware of changes in the counties that will be open for fall turkey hunting during the 2009 hunting season. Fourteen traditional fall-hunted counties will be open to a four-week season Oct. 24 through Nov. 21, 2009.

Preston County will have a two-week season from Oct. 24 to Nov. 7. Nine counties (Brooke, Hancock, Harrison, Marshall, Mason, Ohio, Upshur, Wirt, and Wood), will be open Oct. 24 through Oct. 31. Consult the 2009 Hunting and Trapping Regulations for details or log onto the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Web site at www.wvdnr.gov for additional information.

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West Virginia Forecasts Higher Fall Wild Turkey Hunting Harvest

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia –(AmmoLand.com)-The 2009 “Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook” is available on the Division of Natural Resources’ Web site and at DNR district offices, according to Randy Tucker, Wildlife Biologist for the DNR Wildlife Resources Section. Since 1970, the Wildlife Resources Section, in cooperation with volunteers from numerous other agencies, has conducted a fall mast survey to determine the abundance of mast produced by 18 species of trees and shrubs.

“The availability of fall foods has a significant impact on wildlife populations and harvests,” said Tucker. “Our biologists have used the mast survey data to demonstrate the strong correlation between mast conditions and deer, bear and turkey harvests. In addition to the impact on harvests, the amount of food available each year can affect the reproductive success of numerous species which will affect population sizes in the following years.”

Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook

Production of acorns, walnuts, beechnuts and hickory nuts are well below the 39-year average and will have noticeable effects on the 2009-2010 hunting seasons.

“It is very important for hunters to scout and consider the type and amount of food available in the areas that they hunt,” Tucker added. “Hunters can find a wealth of knowledge in the ‘Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook’ and it should provide them valuable information before heading into the field.”

Certain species of wildlife will move larger distances in search of food due to the reduced amount of mast in 2009. West Virginia residents are reminded to make sure that bird seed, pet food and trash are properly stored so that roaming wildlife, particularly black bears, do not become a nuisance.

Copies of the 2009 Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook may be found on the DNR Web site at www.wvdnr.gov under “Hunting.” Information analyzing mast conditions and wildlife harvests is also available on the Web site.

Get Your copy: Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook

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Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook Available

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Blossom Point, Md. –-(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites women to participate in its Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) deer hunting workshop on November 6-7, 2009. The workshop is designed for women 18 years of age or older who are new to hunting or have limited deer hunting experience. Men are also welcome.

“This is a great opportunity to work with experienced staff from DNR and Blossom Point for two unforgettable days,” said Patricia Allen, Maryland’s BOW State Coordinator. “This workshop is designed for new to beginner hunters. If you have ever wanted to experience white-tailed deer hunting but were not sure how to get started, then this is the program for you.”

Classroom instruction will focus on the basics of deer hunting – safety, regulations, hunting skills, white-tailed deer biology and population management. Participants will have time on the shooting range Friday afternoon to sight-in their firearms.

On Saturday, November 7, the day begins before sun-up as participants are stationed in their tree stands for a day of hunting. Staff will be on hand to assist throughout the day. This workshop is for antlerless deer only.

“By the end of the day participants will hopefully have a deer, or at least some great stories to tell,” said Allen.

The fee for the workshop is $45, which includes registration, instruction, lunch on Friday, breakfast, lunch and snacks on Saturday. All participants must posses a valid Maryland Hunting License.

Download the registration form online at
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/beyondbowevents.asp
or contact Patty Allen at 410-260-8537. There are only 30 slots available.

About:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 461,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland’s effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov

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Womans Deer Hunting Workshop To Be Held in November

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Arnold, Md. –-(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP), the law enforcement arm of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) this morning recognized the 52nd graduating class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police Academy. This graduation ceremony marks the second class of new NRP officers hired this year. Congressman Frank M. Kratovil gave the keynote address.

“I believe that Maryland, more than any other state, has an economy so closely related to the health of the environment that to do harm to one immediately creates an imbalance in the other,” said Rep. Frank Kratovil (D-MD). “We are defined by the Chesapeake Bay, the inlets and rivers sprung from the Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. In our state we value the environment for many reasons — beauty, sport, and recreation to name a few, but we also recognize that our environment is the backbone of our state’s economy and for many citizens the reason we are able to put food on our table, pay our mortgages and send our children to college.”

DNR Secretary John Griffin and DNR Deputy Secretary Eric Schwaab also attended the ceremony along with NRP Superintendent Colonel George F. Johnson, IV, and NRP Deputy Superintendent Lt. Colonel Alphonso Hawkins. Pastor Byron Brought gave the invocation and benediction. The ceremony was held at the Pascal Center for Performing Arts at Anne Arundel Community College.

“The Maryland Natural Resources Police are crucial to ensuring the safety of our citizens as well as our treasured land and aquatic resources are safe,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “Their contributions to our State – whether patrolling the Chesapeake Bay or protecting endangered wildlife – are truly a blessing for all of those who enjoy Maryland’s natural areas.”

“Members of this graduating class will serve at the intersection of the environment and the economy that all Marylanders rely on and I wish them the best of luck and safety in their new role,” added Rep. Frank Kratovil (D-MD).

Below is a list of graduates and their hometowns:

• · Officer Mathew A. Bentley, Joppatowne, Md
• · Officer Jeffrey L. Biermann, Cambridge, Md
• · Officer Troy E. Brimer, Salisbury, Md
• · Officer Bradley W. Bunting. Ocean City, Md
• · Officer Devin R. Corcoran, Preston, Md
• · Officer Angela R. Englehart, Big Pool, Md
• · Officer Annette M. Holmgren, Grasonville, Md
• · Officer Gregory A. Jilek, Hagerstown, Md
• · Officer John M. Jones, Elkton, Md
• · Officer Joshua R. Keeney, Frederick, Md
• · Officer Benjamin R. Lillard, Thurmont, Md
• · Officer Bradley S. Lowe, Smithsburg, Md
• · Officer Lindsey R. Markert, Baltimore, Md
• · Officer Jessica L. Mattson, Salisbury, Md
• · Officer Andrew J. Ostazeski, Port Republic, Md
• · Officer Aaron P. Saunders, Columbia, Md
• · Officer Elizabeth M. Tyler, Salisbury, Md
• · Officer Andrew T. Wilson, Rhodesdale, Md

Individual awards given to class members included

• Top Academic Award – Officer Gregory Jilek
• Marksman Award – Officer Elizabeth Tyler
• Navigation and Seamanship Award – Officer Devin Corcoran
• Leadership Award – Officer Annette Holmgren
• Physical Fitness Award – Officer Bradley Lowe.

“I cannot offer praise enough for this graduating class and all of their hard work, said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “On behalf of DNR and the NRP, congratulations on this great achievement and we look forward to working with you in protecting Maryland’s citizens and our natural resources.”

The Maryland Natural Resources Police is the oldest state law enforcement agency with its beginnings as the State Oyster Police in 1868. The NRP serves as a public safety agency with statewide authority to enforce conservation, boating, and criminal laws, as well as to provide primary law enforcement services for Maryland’s state parks, state forests and public lands owned and managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The agency is also responsible for maritime and rural search and rescue, and is designated as the state’s lead agency for homeland security on Maryland waters.

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Governor Congratulate New Maryland Natural Resources Police Graduates

Some of the DU major donors who supported the Diamond Lake project: Dan and Diana Bartlett, Larry and Jean Braby, Greg J. Currell, Dave Haggard, Barry and Linda Hanson, Keith and JoAnne Helland, Michael Heller, Tim and Ann Hoerichs, Tom and Katie Howe, Shane and Christa Kendall, Mike and Carol Locke, Brian and Sherrie McLoud, Richard Meyer, Steve and Michelle Rourke.

Ducks Unlimited

SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa –-(AmmoLand.com)- Diamond Lake is returning to its former glory thanks to renovations conducted and supported by conservation partners in Iowa including area residents, Ducks Unlimited and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Located in Dickinson County, Diamond Lake is a 166-acre shallow lake in the heart of Iowa’s Great Lakes Region. Restoration activities included installing a new water control structure, outlet pipe and protective fish barrier.

“Diamond Lake represents DU’s inaugural Living Lakes project in Iowa and will provide critical habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds that travel though the state each fall and spring,” said Eric Lindstrom DU regional biologist. “The success of this project is a true testament to the commitment and dedication of a diverse group of partners that banded together to achieve a common goal of improving this shallow lake.”

Poor water quality and invasive rough fish problems limited wildlife use on Diamond Lake. Following the renovations, DNR managers were able to drawdown the lake in 2007 and 2008 and eradicate the rough fish.

This spring, the DNR started to bring the lake water levels back up and recent lake monitoring has shown an eight-fold increase in the number and diversity of aquatic plant species. Water clarity has also improved dramatically from less than six inches pre-renovation to over three feet post-renovation. Improved water quality will allow aquatic plants and wildlife to thrive.

In July, DU and the DNR held a dedication ceremony to celebrate the success of the project and to recognize the many supporters that made these efforts possible. DU major donors contributed over $50,000 towards the restoration efforts and were honored by a cairn and plaque placed on the property.

Funding and support for this project was generously provided by the Iowa DNR Wildlife and Fisheries Bureaus and Lake Restoration Program, North American Wetlands Conservation Council, The McKnight Foundation and several DU major donors.

For more information about DU’s Living Lakes Initiative visit: www.ducks.org/livinglakes or the Iowa DNR’s shallow lakes restoration program visit:

http://www.iowadnr.gov/video/shallowlakes_h.html

About:
With more than a million supporters, Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest and most effective wetland and waterfowl conservation organization and has conserved more than 12 million acres. The United States alone has lost more than half of its original wetlands – nature’s most productive ecosystem – and continues to lose more than 80,000 wetland acres important to waterfowl each year.

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Ducks Unlimited And Iowa DNR Celebrate The Diamond Lake Project

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON WI --(AmmoLand.com)- Regular season Canada goose hunting in the Horicon and Collins zones will begin on Sept. 16. Similar to last year, the 2009 regular season in the Exterior zone will not open until Saturday, Sept. 19, which also marks the start of the two-day Youth Waterfowl hunt.

Goose Hunting
The Exterior zone hunt runs from Sept. 19 through Dec. 12 in the north; Sept. 19 through Oct. 11 and Oct. 17 through Dec. 17 in the south; the Mississippi River subzone runs Oct. 3 through Oct. 11 and Oct. 17 through Dec. 31.

This is the third year of a five-year trial period in which the Exterior Canada goose zone will have a stable season length of 85 days and a two bird daily bag limit. Hunters are reminded that the early goose season ends Sept. 15, so there is no goose hunting from Sept. 16 through 18 in the Exterior zone.

The Horicon zone Canada goose season for 2009 will again have two time periods, which also provides more hunting days; Horicon 1 (H1) runs from Sept. 16 through Nov. 1 and Horicon 2 (H2) goes from Nov. 2 through Dec. 16. Hunters who applied for the Horicon zone will receive six harvest tags. The daily bag limit is two Canada geese.

The three time periods in the Collins zone are: Collins 1: Sept. 16 through Oct. 2 and Oct. 3 at 9 a.m. through Oct. 4; Collins 2: Oct. 5 through Oct. 25; Collins 3: Oct. 26 through Nov. 20. Hunters who applied for the Collins zone will receive six harvest tags. The daily bag limit is two Canada geese.

Youth Waterfowl
The 2009 Youth Waterfowl hunt will be held on Sept. 19 and 20. Regular season bag limits and hunting hours apply. This special hunt offers youth age 10 through 15 the opportunity to learn skills without the pressure encountered during the regular season.

All hunters must be accompanied by an adult chaperone age 18 years or older. The adult may not accompany more than one youth hunter, except that an adult may accompany two youth hunters if at least one of the hunters is 12 to 15 and has completed hunter education. The adult may not hunt ducks, but may hunt geese if they possess the appropriate Canada goose permit. Ten- and 11-year-olds or other “mentored” hunters who have not yet completed hunter education must follow additional guidelines or check page 3 of the 2009 Migratory Bird regulations pamphlet for details on this new opportunity.

Participants are reminded that they need free Harvest Information Program registration and that for hunting geese they must possess a $3 goose permit for the zone in which they wish to hunt. No other license or stamp is required for eligible youth during this special hunt. In Wisconsin, 79 percent of waterfowl hunters have introduced someone new to the sport and are encouraged to continue mentoring with this great opportunity to introduce a son, daughter, relative, or neighbor to the tradition of waterfowl hunting.

More information is available on the Waterfowl pages of the DNR Web site.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Kent Van Horn, DNR Migratory Game Bird Ecologist – (608) 266-884; James Christopoulos, Assistant Migratory Ecologist – (608) 261-6458 or Bob Manwell – (608) 264-9248

About:
The Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to the preservation, protection, effective management, and maintenance of Wisconsin’s natural resources. It is responsible for implementing the laws of the state and, where applicable, the laws of the federal government that protect and enhance the natural resources of our state. It is the one agency charged with full responsibility for coordinating the many disciplines and programs necessary to provide a clean environment and a full range of outdoor recreational opportunities for Wisconsin citizens and visitors.

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Regular Canada Goose Hunting Season Begins

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Cumberland, Md. – -(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today the results of the drawing for the 2009 Maryland Black Bear Hunt Permits. A record 3,613 applications were received online and by telephone over the thirty day period. In 2008, DNR received 3,292 applications

“Maryland’s black bear hunt is not only a unique hunting opportunity, but vital to managing the bear population,” said DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service Game Mammal Project Leader Harry Spiker. Spiker added, ”The growing popularity demonstrates that more hunters are learning about the opportunity and want to enjoy the natural resources of Maryland.”

A total of 240 black bear hunting permits were awarded by a random selection process. The list of winning applicants is available online at

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/huntersguide/BlackBearHunt.asp.

Applicants who have misplaced their lottery number may call DNR’s Wildlife and Heritage Service Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 410-260-8540 to obtain this information. Additionally, a packet containing helpful information about bear hunting and instructions on how to register for the hunt will be mailed to each applicant this week.

A “preference point” system has been applied to all applicants who were not selected in the drawing, allowing those that apply next year an additional entry in the 2010 drawing.

DNR’s sixth Black Bear Hunting Season is scheduled to take place from October 26 through October 31, 2009. The hunt remains a quota driven: DNR has established a targeted harvest rate of 60 – 85 bears this year. Once that harvest rate is reached, the hunting season will be closed. A guide to hunting bear in Maryland is available at

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/huntersguide/BlackBearHunt.asp.

New this year, applicants had the option of voluntarily contributing to the Maryland Black Bear Damage Reimbursement Fund. Gene Deems, Black Bear Permit Coordinator for DNR, remarked, “Hunters were extraordinarily generous as we accumulated $1,520 in donations.” Donated funds will be used to directly reimburse Maryland farmers who have suffered agricultural damage caused by black bears. The Black Bear Damage Reimbursement Fund was established in 1996 and has paid out more than $98,000 in eligible claims to Maryland farmers.

Applicants and interested parties can also follow the Maryland Black Bear Hunt on twitter for updates and real time information at http://twitter.com/mdblackbear.

About:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 461,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland’s effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov

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MD Black Bear Hunting Permit Drawing Receives Record Number Of Applicants

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia --(AmmoLand.com)- Deer hunting comes early to the West Virginia hills this fall.

“The special antlerless deer seasons for archery and muzzleloader hunters will open on private land in certain counties in September,” said West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Director.

Frank Jezioro, who wants hunters to be well armed with the facts before entering the woods.

• The early archery season opens September 14 and closes September 19. Hunters wishing to participate in this season must buy a Class RB or Class RRB stamp before going afield. The stamp allows a hunter to take one antlerless deer during this archery season.
• The early muzzleloader season opens September 21 and closes September 26. Hunters must buy a Class RM or RRM stamp before hunting. This stamp allows a hunter to take one antlerless deer during this muzzleloader season.
• If a hunter does not fill a tag during either season, the appropriate stamp can be used during the regular archery or muzzleloader season.
• Landowners hunting on their own land or holders of the new DT license do not have to buy a stamp.

Prepare for Early Warm Weather Deer Hunting

“With these early seasons, you need to know before you hunt how you’ll take care of it in the field and how you’ll get your deer processed,” said Jezioro. “If you don’t plan to process the deer yourself, make sure beforehand that your deer processor will be open to process the deer.” If your regular processor is not open, Jezioro suggests processing the deer yourself. This is a relatively simple process and numerous guides exist explaining how to do it.

“Cooling the deer meat will be a prime concern,” say Jezioro. He encourages hunters to keep a bag of ice in a cooler at camp or in the car. “After you have field dressed the deer, throw the bag of ice into the chest cavity. Get the hide off the deer as soon as you can. This will let the meat cool quicker.”

Hunters planning on participating in the early seasons need to remember to check their equipment earlier than normal to increase their chances for a safe and successful hunt.

“The opening dates are fast approaching and these seasons will provide an excellent opportunity to hunt deer earlier in the year when weather conditions are generally milder. A little preplanning can greatly enhance your outdoor experience,” Jezioro said.

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Early Antlerless Deer Archery and Muzzleloader Seasons to Be Held in September

New Mexico Game and Fish

ALBUQUERQUE, NM --(AmmoLand.com)- If you’ve always had a hankering to shoot a muzzleloader, try your hand at archery or learn a thing or two about hunting and fishing, don’t miss the eighth annual New Mexico Outdoor Expo, a free family event Aug. 22-23 at the Albuquerque Shooting Range Park.

Education and fun are the objectives of Expo, which was moved from May to August this year to take advantage of New Mexico’s fabulous early fall weather. Activities will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

“This is an excellent opportunity for families learn some fun activities that will take them outdoors,” said

Jennifer Morgan of the Department of Game and Fish Hunter Education Program. “It’s also a chance for us to show people how to safely enjoy the lifetime sports of hunting, shooting and fishing.”

Certified instructors will staff ranges for .22-caliber rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders and archery, providing one-on-one instructions to participants of all ages. Young shooters are especially welcome. Other activities include a fishing pool loaded with hungry, live fish for youngsters to catch and release; a climbing wall; and numerous demonstrations to help people polish their hunting and fishing skills.

This year’s Expo will include special demonstrations and training sessions for off-highway vehicle riders about how to safely enjoy their sport while complying with new state laws for OHV use on public lands.

To get to the Albuquerque Shooting Range Park from Albuquerque, take Interstate 40 west to the top of Nine-mile Hill, exit and drive 4.2 miles north on Paseo del Volcan, turn left at the park sign and drive 2.6 miles to the shooting range.

For more information about New Mexico Outdoor Expo, please call (505) 222-4731.

About:
State of New Mexico Department of Game and Fish: Providing New Mexico and its wildlife Year-round Excellent Services

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Learn To Shoot, Hunt And Fish At Free Outdoor Expo

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Texas --(AmmoLand.com)- “More Than” Wardens: On July 25th, two Coke and Sterling county wardens were patrolling Oak Creek. Checking a boat for water safety, they began to leave and observed the boat capsizing. After a quick turn back to the capsized boat, the wardens noticed the pair in the water. Life jackets were thrown to the two, but one was having difficulties and could not get into the life jacket and was going under water. One warden jumped into the water while the other placed the boat next to them and led both men into the boat and to safety.

Thirsty As the Fish: A warden found a group of underage drinkers and fishermen hiding on a canal leading off Balmorhea Lake. After some talking to, picking up litter, and a few citations for providing alcohol to minors and littering, the subjects went on their way a much wiser group of young men.

Mom, Dad, Can I have a White-Tailed Deer?: On July 22, A Grayson County warden cited a Pottsboro man for possessing a white-tailed deer fawn. The subject had the fawn tied up to his front porch with a collar around its neck. The subject was feeding it a pasteurized milk and instant mashed potato formula. Case pending.

Trigger Happy: On July 25, A Coryell County game warden was in the process of writing several no fishing license citations to a group of fishermen on Lake Waco when he heard multiple gunshots coming from the Corps of Engineers property nearby. Upon investigation, the warden found three people in the woods shooting without a permit for the property. During a safety check for more weapons and ammo, marijuana was found on one of the subjects. All three subjects received citations from the Corps of Engineers, and one subject was transported to jail for marijuana possession. The subjects stated that they had just gotten new guns and couldn’t wait to shoot them. Cases pending.

No Tail to Tell: On July 25th, two Polk County Game wardens received a tip while they were checking fishermen below the Lake Livingston Dam about an alligator that had been killed illegally. The wardens patrolled a short distance to a campground and found a discarded alligator carcass that was missing the tail. A short interview and a quick search around a nearby bowfishing campsite yielded the alligator tail and two suspects. The suspects admitted to killing the alligator in the early morning hours on the Trinity River while bowfishing and were charged with taking alligator in closed season and no CITES hide tag/permit. Cases and civil restitution on a 5.5-foot alligator pending.

Got What They Deserved: On July 26, A Calhoun County Game warden received a call that some young men were shooting alligators from a boat in a city park. The warden got a boat and vehicle description and headed that way. By the time the warden caught up with the group, the flat bottom boat had flown out the back of the pickup truck hauling it away. The warden, with the help of a Calhoun County Game Warden, seized the boat, which had no VIN plate on its transom. Soon the group showed up to claim their boat, but in fact it had been reported stolen the day prior. Charges filed for failure to secure load; more charges pending.

No Bueno: On July 26, a Zapata County Game was spotting on Falcon Lake for illegal activity. At approximately 8:30 p.m., the warden observed a commercial fishing vessel enter Texas waters from Mexico. He observed the occupants of the vessel setting out gill net until 9:30 p.m. On July 27 at approximately 3:00 a.m., he and another warden got a boat and headed to the area where the Mexican fishermen were observed the night before. After about an hour and a half of waiting, they saw a Mexican fishing vessel heading in their direction loaded with gill net. The wardens made contact with the vessel and were able to take two individuals into custody. The two fishermen were transported to the Zapata County Jail and charged with fishing without a valid commercial fishing license and possessing illegal equipment in prohibited waters (gill net). The boat, motor, and approximately 3,300 feet of gill net were seized.

Hog Wild: A Haskell County Game warden had been getting complaints on people hunting feral hogs off the road near Haskell. It didn’t take him long to find part of the problem. At 1 a.m. on Sunday the 25th, the warden issued several citations ranging from no hunting licenses to hunting from a public road.

Red and Blue’s A Comin’ for You: A warden was returning home from Lake O.H. Ivie late Saturday night and observed a vehicle traveling a remote county road. He followed the vehicle for several miles, and the vehicle turned around. The warden turned on his headlights and red and blues and attempted to stop the vehicle for not signaling at an intersection. The vehicle failed to stop, sideswiping the warden’s patrol vehicle. The driver stopped a short distance down the road. The driver was arrested for DWI and the passenger for PI.

Stupid Is As Stupid Does: On July 25, a game warden was behind Bringle Lake when a truck went flying down the road and stopped right in front of him. A car then blocked the exit road and a man started walking from the car towards the truck with something in his hand. The truck started to move and a loud bang was heard. The warden stopped the truck and got in between the two vehicles. The man had picked up a rock and in the midst of road rage threw it through the back passenger window of the truck. The very irate man was placed in handcuffs to control him. The warden made contact with the driver of the truck, a very scared 16-year-old. She stated they had passed the man some time ago, and he had been chasing them every since. The man stated when the truck passed him, they threw a can out in front of him and it splashed on his car. The owner of the truck arrived, and the man agreed to pay for the damages so the owner would not press charges. After sitting in handcuffs for a while, the man said his actions were uncalled for and it was a stupid thing to do.

There’s Something in the Water!: On July 27, two Red River County Game observed a spotlight in the distance. The wardens located several individuals a short time later bowfishing in private waters without landowner consent. The wardens summoned the boat to shore and noticed the driver throw something in the water before exiting the vessel. It was found to be methamphetamine, and the subject was placed in custody. Cases pending.

Gotcha!: On July 26th, an Aransas County Game warden apprehended a subject who bought a large amount of shrimp from a commercial shrimp boat captain and then proceeded to set up shop down the street and resell his shrimp at a profitable amount. As the warden approached, the subject asked him if he would like to purchase some shrimp. The warden stated, “No, but I would like to see your license.” The subject handed him a recreational fishing license. A citation for no retail truck dealer’s license closed the “shop.”

A Diamond in the Rough: A marine theft warden obtained a Tampering w/Government Documents conviction on a Tarrant County man, who was also a known “cat burglar.” The individual bought a Baja boat in Oklahoma, paid $54,000 cash, and then falsified the PWD-143 to avoid the taxes. The individual was very hard to locate due to being in jail on another fraud charge. Subject was ordered to pay $2,367.87 to TPWD, and got time served. The U.S. Treasury Department was also investigating the man on similar charges. They served a search warrant on his home and found 85 loose diamonds in a vacuum-cleaner bag. They also found over 100 more diamonds hidden under the carpet that were traced back to prior home burglaries. The boat, a Hummer, and other vehicles were seized.

About:
The Mission of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, (TPWD), is to manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

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Texas Game Warden Field Notes

Pheasants Forever

Saint Paul, Minn. – -(AmmoLand.com)-

WHAT:
For the fifth year out of the last six, Minnesota pheasant hunters in 2008 harvested more than a half million roosters.

Prior to 2003, Minnesota hunters had bagged more than 500,000 birds during just two seasons since 1964 (1981 & 1991).

While the 2008 harvest fell well below the 40-year record set in 2007 with a 655,000 bird harvest, hunter participation and success during the 2008 season remained high.

Season Length (Days) 65

Year /  Pheasant Harvest / Number of Hunters

• 2003 511,000  105,000
• 2004 420,000 77 104,000
• 2005 586,000 79 111,000
• 2006 588,000 80 119,000
• 2007 655,000 81 118,000
• 2008 522,000 86 107,000

WHY:
Pheasants in Minnesota have enjoyed milder winters and spring conditions advantageous to reproduction in recent years. Those favorable weather conditions, coupled with good habitat on the landscape, including nearly 1.7 million acres of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) lands in Minnesota, have created the successful pheasant seasons we’ve enjoyed in the state since 2003. Unfortunately, danger is on the horizon with massive CRP acres set to expire over the next few years. Last year, 107,000 acres of CRP contracts expired in Minnesota, and 65,000 more acres will expire this year. In fact, 621,000 acres of CRP are set to expire in Minnesota between 2010 and 2013. Pheasants Forever is diligently working to re-enroll, replace, and improve those acres of habitat. The new State Acres For wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) practice of CRP is one successful example.

WHO:
Consider an interview with the following Pheasants Forever officials in response to today’s Minnesota DNR announcement:

• Matt Holland, Pheasants Forever Senior Field Coordinator, (320)354-4377
• Eran Sandquist, Pheasants Forever Regional Wildlife Biologist for western & central Minnesota, (763)242-1273
• Scott Roemhildt, Pheasants Forever Regional Field Representative for southern Minnesota, (507)327-9785

About Pheasants Forever
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are non-profit conservation organizations dedicated to the protection and enhancement of pheasant, quail, and other wildlife populations in North America through habitat improvement, land management, public awareness, and education. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever have more than 125,000 members in 750 local chapters across the continent.

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

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Minnesota DNR Reports a 522,000 Rooster Harvest during 2008 Pheasant Hunting Season

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Annapolis, MD – -(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today the opportunity to comment on the new White-tailed Deer Management plan.

Through September 10, 2009, citizens can comment on the 2009 – 2018 White-tailed Deer Management Plan developed by the DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service. The plan will provide the Department guidance on deer management for the next ten years.

“White-tailed deer are one of Maryland’s most charismatic wildlife species,” said DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service Deer Project Leader, Brian Eyler. “Nearly every resident and visitor to Maryland has had an opportunity to interact with white-tailed deer. Most of these interactions are positive, while some are less so. In the end, few species give rise to the same level of cultural and ecological importance. We encourage all citizens to participate in this process and offer suggestions on how DNR can improve upon its plan to manage white-tailed deer during the next decade.”

Maryland’s first 10-year deer plan was created in 1998. The revised Deer Management Plan is intended to represent the interests of all Marylanders and non-resident stakeholders who have an interest in Maryland’s deer population. The revised plan provides information on white-tailed deer history, biology and management in Maryland, outlines DNR’s deer management responsibilities, and identifies major deer management goals, objectives and strategies for the future.

The draft plan and instructions for submitting comments are available at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/dmpforum.asp.

For more information about deer in Maryland, visit http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/deerhunting.asp.

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DNR Invites Comments on 10-Year White-tailed Deer Management Plan

The Georgia Chapter of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy Associates (FBINAA) recently presented the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Law Enforcement Section with the Phyllis Goodwin Agency of the Year Award. The annual award, presented at the FBINAA’s summer conference in July, recognizes agencies that excel in support of the FBINAA Georgia Chapter.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. --(AmmoLand.com)- The Georgia Chapter of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy Associates (FBINAA) recently presented the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Law Enforcement Section with the Phyllis Goodwin Agency of the Year Award. The annual award, presented at the FBINAA’s summer conference in July, recognizes agencies that excel in support of the FBINAA Georgia Chapter.

As leaders in natural resources law enforcement, Georgia DNR’s Law Enforcement personnel who have graduated from the FBI National Academy serve as active members of the FBINAA’s Georgia Chapter.

“The involvement our supervisory officers have with the Georgia Chapter of the FBINAA has undoubtedly positively affected our agency and its operations,” said Lt. Col. Jeff Weaver of the Georgia DNR Law Enforcement and graduate of the 226th session. “We are honored to receive this recognition.”

Capt. Eddie Henderson of the Georgia DNR and graduate of the 211th session currently serves on the executive board for the Georgia Chapter of the FBINAA as First Vice President. Department personnel also have served on membership, finance and conference committees and provided assistance for the chapter’s Web site redesign initiative.

Georgia DNR officers have benefited from the education and training received from the National Academy. Over the years, practices learned through the academy have been incorporated into agency procedures.

Some examples include the requirement of supervisory training for front line supervisors, the offer of risk management training and workplace issue management to staff and command officers and the opportunity for ethics and professionalism training.

The year 2011 will mark a century of service to the state of Georgia by the DNR’s Law Enforcement agency. As the first and longest-serving state law enforcement agency, DNR is committed to understanding and meeting the law enforcement needs of Georgia’s citizens.

Continued involvement with the FBINAA and the training offered will aid DNR in its efforts to remain at the forefront of the state’s law enforcement leadership.

The Phyllis Goodwin Agency of the Year Award was named after Goodwin, the FBINAA police training tech who effectively served members of the academy for nearly 38 years.

For more information about the Georgia Chapter of the academy, visit www.gafbinaa.org .

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Georgia DNR Law Enforcement Deemed Top Agency By FBI National Academy

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

ANNAPOLIS, MD --(AmmoLand.com)- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced the 2009-2010 early migratory game bird hunting seasons.

The dove season marks the traditional start of hunting activity each year in Maryland and will open Tuesday, September 1 and continue through October 10. The second and third split seasons will be November 14 to 27 and December 18 to January 2. The daily bag limit for doves has been increased to 15 this year.

Maryland’s woodcock season is split into two segments, November 7 to 27 and January 15 to 23.

The early resident Canada goose season will open September 1 and run through September 15 in the Eastern zone. In the Western zone, the season will continue through September 25. The daily bag limit is eight geese per day. During the early resident Canada goose season hunters are allowed to use shotguns capable of holding more than three shotshells and shooting hours are extended to one-half hour past sunset.

“Both blue-winged and green-winged teal populations are well above their long term averages and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has approved additional days for the September teal season,” said DNR Game Bird Section Leader Bill Harvey. “We are pleased to offer hunters more opportunity for these early migrants this year.”

The dates for the September teal season are September 16 to 30. A description of the September teal season zone can be found at http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide/ewfchart.asp. Shooting hours for the September teal season are sunrise to sunset.

Official shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset for all migratory game bird hunting EXCEPT for:

• mourning doves during the first season segment, when shooting hours are from noon to sunset,
• teal during the September teal season when shooting hours are sunrise to sunset, and
• early (September) resident Canada goose season when shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

All migratory bird hunters, including landowners who are license exempt, are required to obtain the Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp/HIP Permit. Hunters must possess the printed receipt showing proof of purchase of the Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp while hunting migratory game birds.

All waterfowl hunters age 16 and over must possess the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (federal duck stamp). Hunters are still required to sign the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp and have it in their possession while hunting waterfowl. Hunters may obtain federal duck stamps at U.S. Post Offices, National Wildlife Refuges, DNR sport license agents, or online at www.duckstamp.com.

Hunters can purchase hunting licenses and Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamps/HIP Permits online through DNR’s website, https://www3.wildlifelicense.com/md/ or over the phone at 1-800-918-2870. These new services compliment the existing 320 retail vendors that currently sell licenses, permits and stamps.

Nontoxic shot is required for hunting rails, snipe, waterfowl, and coots. Hunters may not possess or use nontoxic shot larger than size T or use or possess any lead shot while hunting these species. Approved types of nontoxic shot and other information on migratory bird hunting is listed in the 2009-2010 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping issued with each hunting license or on the DNR website: http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide/index.asp.

For a table that lists the dates and bag limits for Maryland’s 2009-2010 early migratory game bird hunting seasons, visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide/weblesschart.asp. For a quick reference to the early resident Canada goose and September teal seasons and bag limits, visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide/ewfchart.asp. Hunters are encouraged to report banded migratory game birds by calling 1-800-327-BAND (2263) or through the Internet at http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbl/.

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

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MD DNR Announces 2009-2010 Early Migratory Game Bird Seasons

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. --(AmmoLand.com)- Whether still, stalk or squirrel dog hunting is your preference, the beginning of squirrel season is just around the corner.

Often revered as a celebrated American fall tradition, squirrel hunting provides the perfect opportunity to introduce youth or a novice to the sport of hunting. Unlike some big game hunts, the pursuit of bushytails often involves more action for energetic youth, providing a greater level of interaction with the outdoors.

Beginning August 15, 2009 and lasting through February 28, 2010, hunters can pursue both gray and fox squirrels. The maximum daily bag limit is 12 per hunter.

“Prior to the successful restoration of white-tailed deer, pursuing squirrels in the fall was a significant cultural tradition in Georgia,” says John Bowers, Wildlife Resources Division’s Game Management assistant chief. “Squirrel hunting can provide one of our best opportunities to introduce the younger generation to hunting and instill in them our responsibilities to wildlife conservation. Additionally, it’s fun, less expensive and provides constant action.”

Squirrel hunting, especially with squirrel dogs such as feists, terriers and curs, is a great way to introduce youth to hunting and the outdoors. In terms of number of hunters and harvest, squirrels are the second most pursued small game species in Georgia, behind doves.

Georgia’s wildlife management areas offer more than one million acres of hunting opportunity for only $19 a year, and squirrel hunting is allowed on WMAs at specified times during the statewide squirrel season. Hunters are advised to check the hunting regulations for specific WMAs and dates.

The two species

Both the gray and fox squirrels can be found throughout Georgia. The gray squirrel, abundant in both rural and urban areas is the most common species. Though mostly associated with hardwood forests, grays also can be found in mixed pine/hardwood forests. Predominantly gray, with white under parts, gray squirrels appear more slender-bodied than fox squirrels, weighing anywhere from 12 ounces to one-and-a-half pounds.

Fox squirrels have several color phases, varying from silver-gray with a predominantly black head, to solid black, to a light buff or brown color tinged with reddish-yellow. Generally larger than grays, fox squirrels range in weight from one pound to nearly three, and are more closely associated with mature pine and mixed pine/hardwood habitats and especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions.

What about the ‘lumpy’ variety?

This time of year, hunters and wildlife watchers often come across a few squirrels with an out-of-the-ordinary ‘lumpy’ appearance. These lumps and bumps are not tumors and actually are caused by warbles, which are bot fly larvae growing just under the squirrel’s skin.

Bot flies (cuterebra emasculator) naturally parasitize gray squirrels, fox squirrels and chipmunks throughout the eastern and midwestern regions of North America. Affected squirrels typically are observed during late summer and early fall – from mid to late July to the end of October.

Adult bot flies lay their eggs in the vicinity of the squirrel’s habitat or directly on the squirrel. Once the larva hatches, it enters a body opening and migrates to a location underneath the skin of the squirrel. The larva creates a warble pore where it grows for three to ten weeks, matures and exits, falling to the ground. There it burrows to pupate and the cycle repeats itself the following year.

Affected squirrels tend to recover quickly once the larvae exit from the warbles to the ground.

While the sight of a squirrel with warbles may be a bit unsettling, they generally pose no threat to uninfected squirrels, other wildlife, humans or domestic animals, and are perfectly safe for squirrel hunters to skin and eat.

For more information on the 2009-2010 squirrel hunting season or other small game hunting seasons, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com, contact a local Game Management office or call (770) 918-6416.

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August 15 Marks the Opening of Georgia Squirrel Season

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wisconsin –-(AmmoLand.com)- Citizens following the deer management unit (DMU) population goal setting process can review and comment on recommendations expected to go to the Natural Resources Board for consideration at the board’s Sept. 22-23 meeting in Sturgeon Bay.

Comments can also be made online beginning Aug. 15 through the Deer Management Unit Boundary and Goal Review page of the Department of Natural Resources Web site or at a series of public hearings beginning Aug. 13.

“Participation in shaping natural resource management decisions is the right of every Wisconsin citizen and a cornerstone of our conservation legacy,” said DNR Secretary Matt Frank. “Public opinion is important to the DNR and these hearings and online comment opportunities are the public’s chance to be heard. By working together can we ensure the long term health of the deer herd and pass Wisconsin’s rich traditions on to future generations.”

Deer population goals and the boundaries of Wisconsin’s 133 DMUs are run through a public review process every three years. The last review was completed in 2005. For this round of reviews the Department of Natural Resources invited various hunting, forestry, landowner, and scientific communities to participate in a stakeholder review panel to evaluate DMU population goals and gather input from the public before drafting population goal proposals for the DNR and the Natural Resrouces Board.

“Deer populations need to be in ecological balance with their habitat if we are going to maintain our deer hunting and viewing opportunities,” according to Jason Fleener, DNR assistant big game ecologist. “Too many deer will degrade their habitat to a point where it can’t support the numbers hunters and wildlife viewers hope to see. Population goals attempt to balance a sustainable deer herd with social tolerance for high deer numbers.”

Deer management unit goals represent the desired number of deer per square mile of deer range (suitable deer habitat) at the end of all deer hunting seasons in each DMU across the state. Deer left on the landscape following the hunting seasons are the foundation of the following fall’s pre-hunt deer population. Population goals drive the number of harvest permits issued and season frameworks.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jason Fleener – (608) 2617589 or Bob Manwell – (608) 264-9248

About:
The Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to the preservation, protection, effective management, and maintenance of Wisconsin’s natural resources. It is responsible for implementing the laws of the state and, where applicable, the laws of the federal government that protect and enhance the natural resources of our state. It is the one agency charged with full responsibility for coordinating the many disciplines and programs necessary to provide a clean environment and a full range of outdoor recreational opportunities for Wisconsin citizens and visitors.

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Public Invited To Comment On Wisconsin Deer Population Goals