Georgia Department of Natural Resources

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- The beginning of squirrel season is just around the corner, are you ready? 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.

Georgia Squirrel Hunting Season Opens August 15Th

Beginning August 15, 2011 and lasting through February 28, 2012, 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 became a significant cultural hunting tradition in Georgia,” says John Bowers, Wildlife Resources Division’s Game Management assistant chief. “Squirrel hunting provides one of our best opportunities to introduce youth to hunting, instill in them our responsibilities to wildlife conservation and provide exposure to the outdoors. Additionally, it’s fun, inexpensive 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 access to nearly 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.

For more information on the 2011-2012 squirrel hunting season or other small game hunting seasons, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com . To renew or purchase a hunting license, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/recreational-licenses .

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Nominations are now being accepted for the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

For the past 45 years, the Hall of Fame has been the state’s top honor for individuals who have improved the quality of life in Ohio through natural resources management, environmental education or scientific achievement.

Selection criteria and a nomination form are available at www.ohiodnr.com or by calling 614-265-6842. Nomination forms must be returned no later than August 26 to ODNR Communications, 2045 Morse Road, Building D-3, Columbus, OH 43229.

Created by ODNR in 1966, the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame has proudly honored 155 individuals to date, including John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed), explorer John Wesley Powell, conservationist/novelist Louis Bromfield, pioneering botanist Lucy Braun, and farming conservation advocate Bob Evans.

Successful nominators of this year’s Hall of Fame selections will be notified by September 12. Award presentations will be made this fall with a date and location to be announced.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources is offering a variety of opportunities for women to learn more about shooting, archery and hunting this August, through its Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program. These hands-on workshops, designed primarily for those 18 and older, teach women the skills needed to take part in outdoor recreational activities.

“This August, women can learn how to shoot a shotgun, a rifle, a bow or how to hunt for deer,” said BOW program coordinator Sue Tabor. “Even if you’ve never held a gun or a bow before, here’s a great chance to get your feet wet in a fun and friendly atmosphere.”

August BOW programs are taking place in the metro Detroit, Grand Rapids and Saginaw areas.

For registration forms and more information on the following BOW programs, visit www.michigan.gov/bow, call 517-241-2225 or email dnr-outdoors-woman@michigan.gov.

Introduction to Rifle Shooting
Saturday, Aug. 6, 3 to 6 p.m.
Hosted by Detroit Sportsmen’s Congress
49800 Dequindre Rd., Utica

This class will consist of the National Rifle Association’s FIRST Steps rifle course, presenting firearm safety with video and computer graphics in the classroom. Instructors will discuss firearms actions and component parts, ammunition basics, basic shooting positions and firearms for recreational and sporting uses. A hands-on firearms display will be set up for students to handle and become comfortable with the unloaded firearms, with certified instructors available to answer questions. Live fire will take place at an indoor range, using .22 rimfire firearms and supervised by certified instructors at all times. Ammunition, eye and ear protection will be provided. Participants are asked to not bring their own firearms to this class. Youngsters 10 and older are welcome to attend but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Cost per person is $30 (adults and youth) to cover ammunition and class materials. This class is first-come, first-served and is limited to 24 participants.

Introduction to Shotgun Shooting
Thursday, Aug, 11, 6 to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Saginaw Field and Stream Club
1296 N. Gleaner Rd., Saginaw

For beginners as well as those who would like to sharpen their shotgun skills, this shooting clinic provides one-on-one instruction. With an emphasis on firearm safety, participants will learn and practice shotgun shooting technique, how to determine their dominant eye, proper stance and firearm fit. Attendees may bring their own shotgun to this class or one will be provided for their use. Only 20-gauge ammunition will be provided; those bringing their own 12-gauge shotgun will need to provide their own ammunition. Eye and ear protection will be available. Cost per person is $30. The class is first-come, first-served, and class size is limited.

Introduction to Archery
Saturday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to noon
Hosted by Detroit Sportsmen’s Congress
49800 Dequindre Rd., Utica

No skill level is required for this workshop, which will cover safety, dominant eye, proper shooting form/technique, various archery equipment, maintenance and selection. The course will also provide hands-on practice shooting a bow with assistance by instructors. All equipment will be provided. Girls 10 and older are welcome to attend, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Cost for both adults and youngsters is $20 each. This class is first-come, first-served and is limited to 24 participants.

Introduction to Shotgun Shooting
Wednesday, Aug. 17, 5 to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Caledonia Sportsman’s Club
10721 Coldwater Road SE, Alto

The Great Lakes Outdoors Foundation will provide one-on-one instruction in this class for beginners as well as those who would like to sharpen their shotgun skills. With an emphasis on firearm safety, participants will learn and practice shotgun shooting technique, how to determine their dominant eye, proper stance and firearm fit. Attendees may bring their own shotgun to this class or one will be provided for their use. Eye and ear protection also will be available. Cost is $30 per person, including ammunition.

Deer Hunting Workshop
Saturday, Aug. 20, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hosted by Detroit Archers Club
5795 Drake Rd., West Bloomfield

Learn the basics necessary to successfully take part in one of Michigan’s favorite hunting traditions in this workshop that will cover both archery and firearms deer seasons. Participants will learn about deer hunting regulations, rules, and deer health; deer hunting equipment and scent control; scouting and habitat – where to find deer and places to hunt; safety and hunting etiquette in the field; and caring for and processing game after the harvest. The $20-per-person cost includes lunch and all materials.

Introduction to Archery
Wednesday, Aug. 24, 5 to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Caledonia Sportsman’s Club
10721 Coldwater Road SE, Alto

No skill level is required for this workshop, which will cover safety, dominant eye, proper shooting form/technique, various archery equipment, maintenance and selection. The course will also provide hands-on practice at an indoor range, shooting a bow with assistance by instructors. All equipment will be provided. Cost is $15 per person. This class is first-come, first-served and is limited to 10 participants.

Women’s Hunter Education Safety Course
Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 27-28
Hosted by Tuscola County Conservation Club
1060 Gun Club Rd., Caro

This is the perfect class for anyone who has been interested in learning how to hunt, or to use a firearm, but has been nervous to get started. Women and girls age 12 and up are welcome to take part. Participants must attend both days to take the hunter education safety standard test and take home their certificate. Beverages and morning snacks will be provided; attendees are asked to bring their own sack lunch both days. Early registration is encouraged, as the class is limited to 25 participants and is first-come, first-served. Cost is $10 per person.

BOW is a noncompetitive program for women, in which each individual is encouraged to learn at her own pace. The emphasis is on the enjoyment, fun and camaraderie of outdoor activities, and sharing in the success of one another.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources is offering an Introduction to Shotgun Shooting class through the Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program on Sunday, May 22.

The class is designed especially for women to learn basic shotgun shooting skills from certified instructors in a safe and comfortable environment.

The class will take place from 2 to 6 p.m at the Detroit Sportsmen’s Congress in Utica. Instructors will discuss firearm safety, ammunition basics, shooting techniques, determining the dominant eye, proper stance and firearm fit. Participants can then practice their skills on site with trap and skeet shooting.

The Detroit Sportsmen’s Congress located at 49800 Dequindre Rd. in Utica.

The registration deadline is May 12. Register early; class sizes are limited to 24 participants. A $30 fee is due at the time of registration. This fee includes instruction, both classroom and range time, and ammunition. Shotguns are available for your use, or you may bring your own. Only 20 gauge ammunition will be provided. Eye and ear protection will also be provided. For registration forms and information on this and other BOW events, visit www.michigan.gov/bow, email dnr-outdoors-woman@michigan.gov or call 517-241-2225.

BOW is a noncompetitive program for women, in which each individual is encouraged to learn at her own pace. The emphasis is on the enjoyment, fun and camaraderie of outdoor activities, and sharing in the success of one another.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources reminds Michigan residents that hunting and fishing licenses for 2011 are now on sale at license retailers statewide and online at the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Hunters who want to try turkey hunting this spring are encouraged to purchase a leftover license for Hunt 234.

This hunt includes all areas of the state open to spring turkey hunting, except the public lands of southern Michigan, and extends from May 2-31. Hunt No. 234 licenses can be purchased through May 1.

Sportsmen and women who purchase four licenses — a turkey, deer, fish and small game — receive a 15 percent discount.

Anglers are reminded that Michigan now offers a three-day license, which is particularly beneficial for three-day holiday weekends, said DNR Director Rodney Stokes. A three-day fishing license is $21 for both residents and non-residents and only $9 for seniors.

Anyone 17 and older who wants to fish is required to purchase a license. Youth anglers can purchase a voluntary license for $2 (plus an additional $1 for a DNR Sportscard). Stokes said for a small investment of $2, Michigan gets a big return.

“For every license we sell, we receive about $9 back in federal funding from the Pittman Robertson Act (for game species management) or the Dingell-Johnson Act (for fisheries management),” Stokes said. “The voluntary youth license is a great investment for fisheries management in our state, and it conveys to youth anglers their important role in conservation in Michigan.”

License prices in Michigan remain unchanged from 2010.

“Hunting and fishing is an important part of Michigan’s heritage,” Stokes said. “Our work in natural resource management at the DNR would not be possible without the support of Michigan residents and visitors who purchase hunting and fishing licenses.”

For more information on Michigan hunting or fishing, go to the DNR’s website at www.michigan.gov/dnr.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

2011 West Virginia Wildlife Calendars Now Available

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – -(Ammoland.com)- “The 2011 West Virginia Wildlife Calendars are now available for everyone to enjoy,” according to Curtis I. Taylor, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the Division of Natural Resources.

“We apologize for the delay in distributing the calendars this year. We were expecting delivery from the printer by Oct. 20, but the printer has indicated that mechanical problems have kept them from delivering the calendars until now.”

The cover of this wall calendar features an outstanding painting of an adult bald eagle. Other paintings include a gray squirrel, a buck running through a stream, and an English setter with a ruffed grouse. A rainbow trout, hooded merganser, Eastern chipmunk also grace the pages of this large-format calendar. A brief description of the subject accompanies each painting.

Feature articles highlight white-nose syndrome, which is causing large-scale die-offs of bats; ruffed grouse hunting; and a biographical sketch of the late Tom Allen, along with 15 of his paintings which have been in the calendar over the years. The calendar also contains the 2011 hunting and fishing license fees.

“The calendar is full of interesting daily facts, best fishing days and times, and monthly helpful tips to help you fully enjoy the outdoors. Its $10 price tag makes it a terrific bargain and a great holiday gift. Everyone who enjoys and ventures into the outdoors will find it beneficial,” said Taylor.

The 2011 West Virginia Wildlife Calendar is available at WVDNR district offices, department stores, newsstands, convenience marts and food stores throughout the state or through the WVDNR, 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, Discover and American Express are accepted).

Organizations, clubs and civic groups can also profit by selling the Wildlife Calendar as part of their fund-raising activities. Interested organizations should contact the WVDNR at the above address for more information.

Levee construction on Eagle Flats Marsh, Iowa.

Ducks Unlimited

FOREST CITY, Iowa --(Ammoland.com)- Construction activities are complete and the pump is running to flood Eagle Flats Marsh in Hancock County.

Already managers with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources have witnessed several hundred ducks and geese as well as a pair of sandhill cranes on the property.

Eagle Flats Marsh is part of a historic 800-acre formerly-drained wetland complex in north-central Iowa. In the early 1990s, the DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partnered to successfully acquire and restore several tracts of land within this complex. However, DNR biologists continued to have problems effectively managing some of the wetlands because of drastically altered water flows and lack of sufficient infrastructure to manage water levels.

In 2007, Ducks Unlimited, DNR and several local conservationists stepped in to help with this project.

“DU and the DNR designed a plan that would split the marsh into three wetland units where water levels could be managed independently using a series of dikes, water controls and a pump,” said Eric Lindstrom, DU regional biologist in Iowa.

The $500,000 Eagle Flats enhancement project was funded by contributions from state, federal and private conservation partners, including several DU major sponsors.

“We now have an ideal wetland unit with functioning structures that allow us to manage each wetland cell to optimize habitat conditions for waterfowl and other wetland dependent birds,” said Greg Hanson, DNR area wildlife manager.

The DNR began flooding the units in August. Once completely flooded, the area will comprise nearly 270 acres of high quality waterfowl foraging habitat. DNR managers report the pump is working great and that they will continue to flood the units this fall.

“We want to give special thanks to the DNR and DU’s supporters for making this Living Lakes project possible,” Lindstrom said. “We will celebrate this conservation success story with all the major contributing partners at a formal project dedication in the spring of 2011.”

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

Deborah Loon (left) and Mike Malling (right) accept Beyond the Call awards from Jon Schneider (center).

Ducks Unlimited

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- Ducks Unlimited presented two key Minnesota partners with “Beyond The Call” awards for work above and beyond the call of duty to make the Perch Lake enhancement project possible.

Deborah Loon of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust, and Mike Malling of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service were recognized at the trust’s October board meeting by Ryan Heiniger, DU director of conservation programs for Minnesota and Jon Schneider, DU manager of Minnesota conservation programs.

“The Perch Lake project has been a high priority for our local, state and federal partners for many years, as it is so valuable to migratory waterfowl and one of the state’s designated wildlife lakes,” said Loon, executive director of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust.

“The trust was proud to be a partner in this project and help bring it to fruition.”

In 1971, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources legally designated Perch Lake in Blue Earth County for wildlife management purposes. The 310-acre lake has a history of abundant waterfowl use, but is periodically compromised by carp and other invasive fish entering from the nearby Cobb River.

Shortly after the designation, the Minnesota DNR installed a water control structure on private land to allow water level management on the lake that would induce natural fish winterkill conditions and rejuvenate the marsh. By the mid 1990s the structure was no longer functioning, and because the structure and lake outlet were on private land, it could not legally be replaced until the land was acquired by a public conservation agency.

“The challenging conservation work we tackle to enhance, restore and protect Minnesota’s key shallow lakes for waterfowl simply cannot be accomplished without strong partnerships,” Schneider said during the presentation. “Enhancing Perch Lake with an improved water control structure was made possible only through a decade of perseverance by Mike Malling and strong land acquisition efforts and negotiations by Deb Loon. Without the leadership of these two individuals and the strong support of both the trust and the service, Perch Lake would still be unprotected and unmanaged today.”

After years of effort by many conservation partners, Malling and Loon spearheaded an effort to acquire the 110-acre outlet tract and several others on Perch Lake to help restore the lake’s watershed and provide DNR and DU with legal access to the lake’s outlet to replace the structure. DU engineers surveyed and designed a new variable crest outlet water control weir structure equipped with a fish barrier feature. The structure returned water levels in the lake to normal levels, and will be subsequently used by the DNR in future water level management actions designed to keep the lake in an optimal state for migratory birds, especially waterfowl.

“DU was a very important partner in the success of this project as well, and their wetland engineering expertise was invaluable,” Malling said.

Funding support for the engineering of the project was provided through a 2008 grant from Minnesota’s Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. DU then installed the new structure in spring 2010 using a combination of other state and federal grants from LCCMR and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act.

The land will be transferred from the trust to the service and managed as a federal Waterfowl Production Area, and the DNR will manage the Perch Lake structure through a cooperative agreement with the trust and service. The project is part of DU’s Living Lakes Initiative and the Minnesota DNR’s Duck Recovery Plan. These cooperative efforts call for the enhancement, restoration and protection of shallow lakes and large marshes for both waterfowl migration and brood-rearing habitat.

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

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources and Environment will host an open house on Wednesday, Oct. 13, to provide information and receive public comment on proposed forest management treatments for 2012 in the Grayling Management Unit.

The open house will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Grayling Forest Management Unit office on M-93 in Grayling.

Each year, the DNRE inventories and evaluates one-tenth of state-owned forest. Personnel gather information about the health, quality and quantity of all vegetation; wildlife and fisheries habitat and needs; archeological sites; minerals; recreational use and wildfire potential. They also evaluate social factors, including proximity to roads and neighborhoods, and use on adjacent public and private lands. The DNRE then proposes treatments to ensure the sustainability of the resources and ecosystems. These treatments may include timber harvesting, replanting, and other management activities.

The open house is an opportunity for the public to review proposed treatments and to provide input toward final decisions. It also provides the public an opportunity to talk with foresters and biologists about issues of interest. Maps and information regarding the proposed treatments will be available at the open house, and can be accessed at www.michigan.gov/dnr under the Forests, Land & Water section.

Each forest section is divided into smaller units or compartments for easier management of the resources. Compartments under review this year are in Frederic, Maple Forest, Lovells, Grayling Charter and Beaver Creek townships in Crawford County; and Greenwood, Elmer and Clinton townships in Oscoda County.

The formal compartment review to decide on prescriptions for these areas is scheduled for 9 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 3, at the Grayling Forest Management Unit office in Grayling.

Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for these meetings should contact Susan Thiel at 989-348‑6371, extension 7440 a minimum of five business days before the meeting.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is committed to the conservation, protection, management, and accessible use and enjoyment of the state’s environment, natural resources, and related economic interests for current and future generations. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/dnre.

8 Pet Dogs Killed by Wolves in Wisconsin in 2010

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin --(Ammoland.com)- Each year, with the beginning of the Wisconsin bear hound training and hunting season, bear hunters are reminded to exercise caution if they plan to train or hunt bear with hounds.

As of August 3rd, eight hounds have been killed by wolves since the opening of bear hound training season. Hunters should use the caution area maps below to help reduce conflicts during this year’s bear dog training season. Table 1 contains a summary of the 2010 dog depredations by wolves.

**Anyone suspecting a wolf attack in northern Wisconsin should call USDA-WS immediately at 1-800-228-1368.

Caution Areas and Wolf Behavior
When wolves attack dogs in hunting or training situations, the Wisconsin DNR will create “wolf caution areas” to warn hunters that a specific pack has attacked a dog or group of dogs. (What are Wolf Caution Areas?) Bear hunters are urged to exercise greater caution if they plan to train hounds or hunt bear with hounds near any caution area, especially if near an actual kill site. Table 1 contains a summary of the 2010 dog depredations by wolves with additional information and caution area maps shown below.

As with other wild canids, wolves are very territorial and will guard their territories from other wolves, coyotes, and domestic dogs. Wolves are probably most aggressive toward strange wolves and dogs at den and rendezvous sites when their pups are small, during the breeding season in January and February, and when they are protecting a fresh kill. Wolf packs have pups in spring and then later will use rendezvous sites from mid June to late September, after the pups are big enough to leave their den. Adult wolves are very defensive of pups at rendezvous sites and will attack other predators, including dogs, that get too close to the rendezvous site or the pups.

A pack will use from 2 to 3 to as many as 6 or more rendezvous sites during the summer. The exact locations vary from year to year and throughout the summer. The sites are usually forest openings or edge areas, with lots of wolf tracks, droppings, and matted vegetation. Move 2 or 3 miles from any rendezvous site, if possible, before releasing dogs. In addition, avoid releasing dogs at baits recently visited by wolves. When looking for bear sign at a bait, make sure to also look for wolf tracks. Be familiar with your own dog’s tracks, so that you can distinguish it from any wolf tracks. If a specific bait site is receiving a lot of wolf use, discontinue using it until wolves have left, and concentrate on an alternative bait site. Some hunters have had success with bells on dog collars to reduce wolf attacks, but some dogs with bells have been attacked by wolves. For more options on reducing the likelihood of wolf attacks on hounds see:

• A Guide to Reducing Conflict between Wolves and Hunting Dogs
• Guidance for Bear Hunters and Pet Owners

Pet Dogs
Although wolf attacks on pet dogs in residential areas are rare, they do occur and have increased in recent years. These types of attacks represent a special kind of wolf depredation to domestic animals. For additional guidance and information about protecting pet dogs and bear hounds from wolves, see “Guidance for Bear Hunters and Pet Owners”.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, AZ – -(Ammoland.com)- Arizona Game and Fish customers are reminded that the department’s Phoenix headquarters and regional offices in Pinetop, Flagstaff, Kingman, Yuma, Tucson and Mesa will be closed on Friday, July 23, as part of the mandated furlough days for all state employees.

The department will conduct law enforcement activities that day and the Operation Game Thief program will be active. Wildlife violations can be reported by calling 1-800-352-0700 or online at www.azgfd.gov/thief.

Those department wildlife areas that are normally staffed will be closed. Fish hatcheries will be staffed to ensure the health of hatchery fish but will not be open to the public.

Although Game and Fish offices are closed on Friday, there are still a number of services that are still available to the public, either as noted or at the Game and Fish website at www.azgfd.gov:

• The Ben Avery Shooting Facility and Clay Target Center will be open during their normal range hours. (7 a.m.-3 p.m. BASF and 7 a.m.-9 p.m. CTC)
• Hunting and fishing licenses and stamps may be purchased online (and at more than 300 license dealers statewide)
• Renewals of watercraft registration may be performed online
• Fall big game drawing results and listing of leftover tags can be accessed online
• Take an online education course for OHV, boating, hunting or bowhunting
• Signup for Game and Fish e-news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter, and check out videos online

The furlough days are part of the state’s budget-balancing efforts. State employees are required to take six unpaid furlough days over each of the next two fiscal years under a schedule set by the Arizona Department of Administration.

Other furlough days on which department offices will be closed in 2010 are Aug. 20, Sept. 17, Nov. 26, and Dec. 23.

Wisconsin's Operation Deer Watch’ Kicks Off August 1

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI – -(Ammoland.com)- Beginning August 1, Wisconsin citizens will have a new opportunity to be part of managing white-tailed deer in Wisconsin.

Dubbed Operation Deer Watch, people are being asked to record and report all deer they see between Aug 1 and Sept 30. Go to the Department of Natural Resources website [dnr.wi.gov] and click on the Operation Deer Watch button to get started.

“All deer seen including bucks, does and fawns should be reported during this two month period,” said Jason Fleener, assistant DNR deer specialist.

“The observations will be entered into a database and will be used to determine doe to fawn ratios, which are a part of the population estimation equation.”

Summer deer observations have always been part of the population estimation process, according to DNR biologists. The number of deer seen and the number of fawns seen with each doe are indicators of annual production in deer herds. In addition to deer seen, observers are asked to note date and location. Only deer seen between sunrise and sunset are to be counted.

In previous years, the observation period lasted three months and only state and federal biologists, foresters, law enforcement and other government staff participated.

“One of the recommendations of a panel of experts that that reviewed our deer population estimation model a few years back was to increase the number of observers and to shorten the summer deer observation period to two months from three,” said Fleener

“We hope to capitalize on the intense public interest in Wisconsin’s whitetail deer population. It’s a great chance for the public to help keep an eye-on-the-herd and add a lot more observations to our database.”

Operation Deer Watch is yet one more way in which the deer enthusiasts can help monitor the herd. In 2009, the department launched a hunter observation website that asked hunters to record observations from their trips in the woods. Valuable information on species distribution, as well as, data the number of hunting days, hunting hours and environmental conditions they experienced was gathered. Nearly 20,000 hunting trips were logged into the online database. In addition, similar new data questions were added to the deer registration form that successful hunters complete and this provided over 320,000 observations.

“We expect the value of these citizen-based monitoring efforts will grow with each additional year. We will be able to look at year-after-year changes that provide insights to our deer populations across Wisconsin” added Fleener.

Visit: http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/harvest/summerdeer.htm

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Bob Manwell – (608) 264-9248, Jason Fleener – (608) 261-7589 or Jessica Rees – (608) 221-6360

2009 West Virginia Big Buck Contest

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – -(Ammoland.com)- The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced the winners of the 2009 West Virginia Big Buck Contest, according to Gene Thorn, Chairman of the West Virginia Big Buck Contest Review Committee.

The contest is cosponsored by the DNR, Izaak Walton League of West Virginia, West Virginia Bowhunter’s Association, West Virginia Muzzleloader’s Association, West Virginia Physically Challenged Advisory Board, and Toyota to recognize sportsmen and women who take an extraordinarily big antlered buck in West Virginia.

This past year, 260 hunters had their deer antlers scored at one of the six DNR district offices, field offices, or during the West Virginia Hunting and Fishing Show in Charleston. Eighty (80) hunters qualified for the 2009 Big Buck Contest by entering their legally harvested bucks into one of three categories (gun, bow or crossbow). Contestants were required to meet certain conditions to participate: deer antlers needed to meet or exceed a minimum score established for the respective category, an Official Game Check Tag had to be presented, and a Fair Chase Statement had to be signed.

Twelve bucks killed by gun hunters scored above 140 points typical or 165 points non-typical. In the Typical Gun category, the winner was Kenneth Carpenter from Streetsboro, Ohio, with a 12-point buck killed in Kanawha County that scored 163 7/8. There were no entries this year in the Non-typical Gun category.

Bowhunters killed 67 deer that scored above 125 points typical or 155 points non-typical. The winner of the Typical Bow category was Jason Kerns of Shepherdsville, Ky., with a 14-point buck from Logan County that scored 162 3/8. The Non-typical Bow category winner was Howard Powell III of Parkersburg, W.Va., with a huge 23-point buck taken in Wood County that scored 193 1/8. Howards’s buck took over the #4 position for Non-typical Bow kills in the list that ranks the top five buck scores for all time in West Virginia.

One buck killed by a physically challenged crossbow hunter scored above 125 points typical or 155 points non-typical. The Typical Crossbow category winner was Bobby Grose of Rock, W.Va., with a 9-point Mercer County buck that scored 131 3/8. There was no non-typical buck taken with the crossbow this year that met the minimum score.

The Boone and Crockett Club, or Pope and Young Club, rating systems are used to score bucks, depending upon the method of harvest. The Boone and Crockett Club guidelines are used to score deer harvested with a firearm, muzzleloader, or crossbow (used by physically challenged hunters with a Class Y Permit). Certificates are presented for racks scoring at least 140 points typical or 165 points non-typical for firearms and muzzleloaders, and scoring at least 125 points typical or 155 points non-typical for crossbow. Deer harvested with a bow are measured according to Pope and Young Club standards, and they are recognized with a certificate for racks scoring at least 125 points typical or 155 points non-typical.

The winner in each category will receive a plaque during the 2010 National Hunting and Fishing Day Celebration, held the last weekend of September at Stonewall Resort State Park. A list of bucks meeting the minimum qualifications will be posted on the DNR’s website: www.wvdnr.gov/hunting/BigBuckContest.shtm

The Big Buck Contest Committee thanks all the hunters who participated in this year’s contest.

HuntnFishRegs.com

HuntnFishRegs.com

Orem, UT --(AmmoLand.com)- Before you invest a lot of time trying to find up-to-date Hunting and Fishing Regulations, check out huntnfishregs.com.

Whether you are computer literate or not, the interactive huntnfishregs.com will help you with all the information you will need for a legal and safe hunting or fishing trip.

No newcomer to the Hunt and Fish industry, co-founders Guy Van Dyke and Jeff Hunt both have over 15 years experience producing the State Regulation Guides.

According to Jeff Hunt, creative director, “We have helped make the guides what they are today and are now taking them into the next generation.”

Accessibility is a unique and important aspect of huntnfishregs.com. Visitors to the site will find useful tools to help them plan their hunting and fishing trips. They can buy their license, check out maps for all 50 states, see weather and lunar forecasts, find a hunter safety course in their area, view the gallery, and so much more.

“Our goal is not to change the way the state regulations look but, to change the way you look at the state regulations,” Van Dyke said.

For more information, visit huntnfishregs.com.

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- There were 4,360 people who attended the 2010 Spring Fisheries and Wildlife Rules Hearings and Wisconsin Conservation Congress county meetings that were held in every county statewide on Monday, April 12.

The hearings allowed citizens to comment and provide their input on proposed fish and wildlife rule changes, Conservation Congress advisory questions, and to submit resolutions for rule changes they would like to see in the future.

Statewide hearing results and the questions are available on the Spring Rules Hearings page of the DNR Web site. The results will be presented to the state Natural Resources Board in May.

Hearing results, along with written comments on proposed rules, and DNR recommendations are used to advise the state Natural Resources Board. This year’s results will be reviewed at the board’s May 26 meeting in Lake Geneva. Votes are non-binding and are presented to the Natural Resources Board to reflect public sentiment on proposed DNR rule changes.

DNR fish and wildlife managers will spend the next several weeks analyzing the vote tallies and developing recommendations they will present to the board in May.

The hearings are held in conjunction with the Wisconsin Conservation Congress county meetings. DNR related proposals are presented to attendees by DNR staff. Following DNR business, the meeting is reconvened as a Conservation Congress meeting and congress advisory questions are presented and county congress delegates elected. The congress is an advisory body to the Natural Resources Board. During the congress’ portion of the hearing, citizens may introduce resolutions for consideration and vote by those attending the hearings.

Daryn Benish, 18, of Prairie du Chien High School, displays excellent form during the Fifth annual NASP Wisconsin State Tournament. WDNR Photo

Wisconsin DNR

WISCONSIN RAPIDS --(AmmoLand.com)- A record 635 archers from 18 schools converged on East Junior High School in Wisconsin Rapids for the fifth annual National Archery in the Schools Program state tournament.

That makes it the largest archery tournament ever held in Wisconsin. Participation at this year’s event, held in late March, was five times the number of competitors who attended the inaugural tournament in 2006.

“The more we can get kids into archery, the more skills and interests they develop, and the more time they spend outside connecting with the natural world – important preparation for becoming the conservation stewards of tomorrow,” said DNR Secretary Matt Frank.

Shooting bows with their fingers – no trigger releases are allowed – and without any kind of sighting device – not even a pencil mark on the bow – some of the students were able to stick one arrow after another in the 10-point bulls-eye, a circle no more than three or four inches in diameter.

“The skill of some of these young archers is a wonder to behold,” said Dan Schroeder, a natural resources educator with the state Department of Natural Resources and the Wisconsin state coordinator for NASP. “They are very accomplished archers. It’s gratifying to see these kids get better and better with each passing year.”

The rings surrounding the bull’s-eye have point values from 9 to 1 moving away from center. Shooting three sets of five arrows from 10 meters and three sets from 15 meters, the highest possible score, if all 30 arrows find the center mark, is 300.

The male tournament champion was Jason Marek from Bloomer Middle School who shot a 284.

Michelle Secora, De Pere High School, and Teresa Zoller from Manitowoc High School each shot a 282 to become the 2010 NASP female state co-champions.

The first place schools in their divisions were Spring Hill Elementary, Wisconsin Dells; Osseo Middle School; and Cadott High School.

Betty Holler is a parent volunteer for the Cadott team. She said the program is in its fourth year at Cadott. The students are so enthused, she said, they engage in community service projects to raise funds so the team can compete at state.

Several DNR conservation wardens worked the tournament, assisting with range safety and acting as referees in cases where an arrow’s point score was a close call. But their involvement in NASP runs much deeper. Several – like wardens Kelly Crotty and Tim Price – are NASP-certified teacher instructors, which meant taking a three-day course. They in turn teach the eight-hour course teachers must complete to become basic archery instructors in their schools.

Surveys show the program is incredibly popular with teachers, who give it a 94 percent approval rating. Of the student archers, 77 percent had no prior experience with archery before NASP came to their school.

“One of the things we find is that it helps with attendance,” said Eric Boson, who coaches the Marshfield High School team. “It’s one of those things kids don’t want to miss in school.”

Another teacher and coach, Brent Seamans, transferred to Prairie du Chien from a school district in Alaska where he became a NASP-certified instructor. One of the beauties of the program is that it is exactly the same, with the same equipment and training, no matter what state or country it takes place.

NASP organizers are careful to separate NASP from any programs designed to teach bow hunting. NASP is about target shooting only. Still, target shooting offers a gateway to bow hunting. Surveys show that more than half of these student archers will continue launching arrows after graduating from the program, some focusing on target shooting, others on hunting.

For the point of view of state wildlife officials, either of these outcomes is a benefit, given that a federal excise tax on all archery equipment helps fund state wildlife programs.

More importantly, the growing popularity of NASP offers the prospect of slowing or stopping the continued national decline in the number of licensed hunters and anglers. The “conservation model” in this country is largely dependent on license fees and other forms of financial support from hunters and fishermen. These outdoors lovers form a critical constituency for habitat restoration and land conservation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Schroeder – (920) 740 – 7528

Elementary Team scores
First: 2942 – Spring Hill Elementary, Second: 2853 – Portage John Muir Elementary, Third: 2661 – Superior Elementary.

Middle School scores
First: 3132 – Osseo Middle School, Second:3120 – Spring Hill Middle School,Third: 2858 – Superior Middle School

High School team scores
First: 3210 – Cadott High School, Second: 3189 – De Pere High School, Third: 3168 – Osseo-Fairchild High School.

Individual Scores Overall

Female:

• First: 282 – Michelle Secora, DePere High School, and Teresa Zoller, Manitowoc High School
• Second: 280 – Katie Coughlin, 280-Spring Hill Middle school
• Third: 279 – Andrea Roth, Cadott High School

Male:

• First: 284 – Jason Marek, Bloomer Middle School
• Second: 279 – Devon Wendt, Cadott High School
• Third: 278 – Garrett Lohr, Portage High School

West Virginia DNR

SUTTON, W.Va. – -(Ammoland.com)- Three adults and two juveniles from Braxton County have been arrested and charged with multiple violations of West Virginia wildlife laws in what Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Law Enforcement officers are calling “thrill kill” deer poaching incidents.

In October 2009, DNR conservation officers began finding numbers of dead deer adjacent to several roads in Braxton County. The locations, position of the carcasses and in some cases information supplied by the local citizens led the officers to become suspicious of what might have been written off as deer struck by vehicles. However, upon closer examination of the carcasses, the officers determined that the animals had wounds consistent with being hit by a low velocity projectile that officers later learned were slugs fired from a .410 shotgun.

Officer K.W. Bingaman and Officer D. Duffield began asking questions of nearby residents and increasing patrols in the area. They developed information that a group of poachers was driving these areas, spotlighting the deer and then shooting them with some type of firearm that left a wound inconsistent with either a centerfire rifle or a .22 caliber rimfire, the most common weapons used to poach deer. Most of the killing was occurring in the early hours of darkness.

By late October, the officers got a break in the investigation. Deputy Rob Brady of the Braxton County Sheriff’s Department overheard a remark by a juvenile who then showed the deputy a large set of deer antlers and allegedly initially remarked that the deer was “shot the other night” but later changed his story, stating that another individual killed the deer with a bow on Nicholas Run. Deputy Brady passed this information on to Officer Duffield. Additional information from residents revealed that Joshua Samples, Ashley Johnson, Jack Jenkins and a second juvenile were also allegedly involved in the killing of multiple deer.

The conservation officers began a series of interviews that resulted in conflicting stories and a complex tale of many nights of spotlighting deer, shooting at some deer and missing, wounding other deer that ran off to die and killing some deer outright. Of the deer that were killed outright, a very few are alleged to have been taken to the residence of the second juvenile and processed for consumption. Conservative estimates based on the suspects’ statements and the evidence was that 30-plus deer may have been killed by this alleged poaching ring during a two month period.

The conservation officers’ investigation placed both juveniles in the company of Jack Jenkins on the night of November 8, 2009. On that night they allegedly shot and wounded or killed at least two deer. Court records indicate that Jenkins, who was the suspected shooter, is a convicted felon allegedly prohibited by both state and federal law from possessing a firearm.

Charges have been lodged in Braxton County Court and are pending action. All of the alleged conspirators were from the Sutton and/or Gassaway areas of Braxton County. No hearing dates have been set. Defendants and the criminal charges they face are as follows:

Joshua Samples: Age 19

Ashley Johnson: Age 20

Jack Jenkins: Age unknown

Juvenile #1

Juvenile #2

“The skills and tenacity of Officers Bingaman and Duffield, along with the cooperation of concerned citizens and an alert Deputy Brady, resulted in the senseless destruction of the citizen’s natural resources being stopped,” said Capt. M.A. Waugh of the DNR District 3 office in Elkins.

“Anytime wildlife is taken illegally it robs the honest sportsman of the chance to lawfully harvest game and limits the opportunity to introduce a new generation of young people to the outdoor sports. “

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin – -(AmmoLand.com)- Unseasonably warm temperatures again this week have raised wildfire danger in Wisconsin to high or very high statewide. Burning permits have been cancelled in some areas and restrictions are in place in other areas.

Check the current fire danger page of the DNR Web site for burning permit status and restrictions. Debris burning is the main cause of wildfires in the state, and people are being asked to put off any burning at this time. Since March 3, 166 wildfires have burned 240 acres around the state.

Ten structures have been lost in these fires and another 78 were threatened. Anyone who fails to obtain a permit or check the daily restrictions, risks burning illegally or unsafely, and may be subject to a citation. Furthermore, anyone who starts a wildfire, may be held liable for all damages and fire suppression costs.

Ice conditions have continued to deteriorate with the mild spring weather. Ice thickness has dropped down to the 8- to 12-inch range on northern lakes, and southern lakes are opening. Portions of the Madison area lakes are open and ice may go out of Lake Monona completely this week.

For all practical purpose, the ice fishing season has now ended statewide, as access conditions and honeycombed ice have made it just too unsafe for anglers to get out. Rivers and parts of many flowages have lost their ice cover even through northern Wisconsin.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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/

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

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.

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.

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.

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