California Outdoor Heritage Alliance

Sacramento, CA - -(AmmoLand.com)- As of January 1st, several new laws sponsored or supported by the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) have gone into effect which will benefit hunters and provide more hunting opportunity in the field.

First, penalties for hunter harassment have appropriately been increased to a possible misdemeanor on the first offense, while field trials and related hunting dog training are now legally protected activities. Also, commercial hunting club license fees imposed by the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) have been substantially reduced, with most hunting clubs seeing their annual fees cut nearly in half. In addition, California’s private lands hunting program (SHARE Program) has finally been formally established as a statewide program, paving the way for significant new hunting opportunity for the public in future years.

Other positive legal changes written by COHA include new laws which: a) reduce penalties for hunters who have been cited for not having their hunting license in the field, but who can produce it in court; b) allow hunters to shoot across roads and other ways open to the public when it can be done in a reasonably safe manner; c) make it a crime to remove the collar of a hunting dog without written permission of the owner; and, d) require the Wildlife Conservation Board, in acquiring land for hunting and fishing purposes, to take into consideration those areas of the state most in need of increased hunting and fishing access.

COHA also teamed with DFG to substantially increase penalties and fines for egregious cases of poaching. Violators can now face tens of thousands of dollars in fines and possibly have their hunting license revoked for life.

COHA thanks Assembly Members Tom Berryhill (D-Modesto) and Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) for their considerable efforts to support and pass these legislative provisions.

About:
The California Outdoor Heritage Alliance is a 501(c) 4 non-profit political advocacy organization dedicated solely to the promotion of wildlife and the protection of our hunting heritage. COHA professional staff is active at the California State Legislature, Congress, State Fish and Game Commission, State and Federal resource agencies and all other political arenas where decisions are made which may impact wildlife management, habitat conservation, wildlife program funding, hunting access and opportunity, and your ability to purchase and possess sporting arms and munitions. COHA was created in early 2006 by the California Waterfowl Association. For more information on COHA and its efforts, visit their website at www.outdoorheritage.org

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. --(AmmoLand.com)- Trappers harvesting beaver and fisher in West Virginia are reminded they must present the whole animal or pelt to a game checking station or Division of Natural Resources representative within 30 days after the close of the respective season. A tag provided by the checking station shall be attached to the whole animal or pelt until it has been sold, tanned or mounted.

The law requires bobcat hunters and trappers to field tag each bobcat before moving the animal from the location where it was killed. The field tag must remain on the carcass until it is retagged with an official game checking tag at an official game checking station. Hunters and trappers are to present the unskinned bobcat when checking the animal.

Information provided by hunters or trappers on the checking tag is used to monitor harvests and assist in future management of these species in West Virginia. Decisions regarding season length, opening and closing dates, and bag limits are reliant upon accurate data obtained from these tags.

California Outdoor Heritage Alliance

Sacramento, CA --(AmmoLand.com)-During the 2009 State Legislative Session, COHA was successful in inserting several pro-hunting amendments into AB 1442 (Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee).

The bill was ultimately signed into law on October 11th. The COHA-drafted language will do the following:

1. Authorize the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) to secure voluntary easements on private land to create public access for recreational activities, such as hunting and fishing opportunities.
2. Require WCB, in acquiring land for hunting and fishing purposes, to consider those areas of the state in which public access and opportunity for those activities is most needed.
3. Make technical changes to provisions of law relating to shooting near roads and other ways open to the public to ensure that hunting can continue to safely and legally occur in those areas.
4. Make it a crime to remove the collar of a hunting dog without the written permission of the owner.
5. Reduce penalties for hunters who have been cited for not having their hunting license in the field but can produce the license in court.

A separate provision in AB 1442 that was supported by COHA creates a voluntary stamp that may be purchased at Fish and Game license offices to support California Game Wardens.

COHA appreciates the willingness of Assembly Member Jared Huffman and the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee to include these important provisions in AB 1442.

About:
The California Outdoor Heritage Alliance is a 501(c) 4 non-profit political advocacy organization dedicated solely to the promotion of wildlife and the protection of our hunting heritage. COHA professional staff is active at the California State Legislature, Congress, State Fish and Game Commission, State and Federal resource agencies and all other political arenas where decisions are made which may impact wildlife management, habitat conservation, wildlife program funding, hunting access and opportunity, and your ability to purchase and possess sporting arms and munitions. COHA was created in early 2006 by the California Waterfowl Association. For more information on COHA and its efforts, visit their website at www.outdoorheritage.org

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

OLYMPIA, WA --(AmmoLand.com)- Eastern Washington’s modern firearm elk hunting season that opens Oct. 31 does not include the West Bar Game Management Unit (GMU) 330 in the northeast corner of Kittitas County.

GMU 330 is mistakenly listed under the Oct. 31 – Nov. 8 season for true spike bulls in the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) 2009 Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet.

“The West Bar unit is available for early archery and special permit elk hunting only,” said Ted Clausing, WDFW regional wildlife program manager.

“Over 20 years ago when it was included during the general season, too much hunting pressure on West Bar caused elk to cross the Columbia River and enter the agricultural and residential areas of Grant County, leading to some unethical and unsafe hunting activities.”

WDFW staff are posting signs at access points to the unit and distributing notices to hunting groups and license vendors to alert hunters to the error.

South Dakota Fish, Game & Parks

PIERRE, S.D. – -(AmmoLand.com)-The Turn In Poacher’s program, a cooperative effort between Wildlife Protection Inc. and South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department, is offering a $1,000 reward for the identification and arrest of the person or people responsible for the death of a moose near Deerfield Reservoir, SD on or about Oct. 1.

Additionally, the TIPs Board of Directors has agreed to accept and administer any additional donations from member of the general public who would like to add to the reward. According to TIPs Board President Bob Schuurmans, individuals and organizations have already contacted TIPs and offered several hundred dollars in donations to supplement anything the TIPs board would authorize.

Those wishing to contribute to the reward may do so by earmarking the donation as “Moose TIPs Reward” and sending it to the Turn In Poachers office at 412 W. Missouri, Pierre, SD, 57501. If you would like more information about making a donation, please call Charlie Wharton at 605-773-5906.

Anyone with information on the bull moose case is urged to call a local state Game, Fish, and Parks conservation officer, a local law enforcement agency, or the TIPs line at 1-888-OVERBAG (1-888-683-7224). Tips may also be submitted online through the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Web site: https://www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/TIPS/AnonRepo.htm

Those providing information through TIPs may remain anonymous.

According to Conservation Officer Blair Waite, elk hunters found the moose dead from gunshot wounds on Friday, Oct. 2 in southwestern Lawrence County. While moose are not native to South Dakota, the animal had recently become a welcome visitor to the Black Hills.

The Turn In Poachers Hotline was started in an effort to reduce the number of wildlife crimes in the state. The TIPs program, which began in 1984 after two elk were poached in the Black Hills, serves as a single contact point for anyone with information about hunting and fishing violations in the state.

The program not only offers rewards for information on those cases, it also provides an opportunity for tipsters to remain anonymous. Hundreds of arrests are made and thousands of dollars are rewarded each year through use of the network. According to Schuurmans, this could be the most important call you ever make.

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia –(AmmoLand.com)-A Kanawha County man was issued a number of citations for hunting law violations on the last day of the recent early bear hunting season, according to Lt. David Trader of the Division of Natural Resources’ District 5 office in Nitro.

An early firearm season for black bear was in effect Sept. 21-26 in Boone, Fayette, Kanawha and Raleigh counties.

On Saturday, Sept. 26, Conservation Officers Chad Rains and Ed Goodson were on patrol near Sanderson Ridge in Kanawha County.

A routine check of a hunter by the officers resulted in several citations being issued to Ricky D. Jarvis, age 40, of Clendenin.

He was charged with carrying a loaded gun in a motor vehicle, hunting from a motor vehicle, feeding bears, hunting bear over bait, and failure to present a hunting license. Charges were filed in Kanawha County Magistrate Court and are awaiting action.

“Hard work and information sharing between the DNR Law Enforcement Office in Elkins and the Nitro district office about potential problem areas and complaints about bear hunting violations paid off,” said Lt. Trader. “Conservation officers in the state have been working diligently checking for hunters who illegally kill or bait bear. Anyone with information about any such illegal activity is encouraged to call the DNR at your local district office listing.”

The next firearm season for black bear for most of the state runs from Dec. 7 through 31.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – -(AmmoLand.com)-New elk hunting statutes will impact Panhandle landowners who want to be included in hunting zones in 2010. Those zones qualify landowners for limited numbers of elk permits.

“The ability to qualify for landowner elk hunting permits is different than landowner permits for other Nebraska big game,” said Todd Nordeen, Panhandle district wildlife manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

“It is important that landowner elk permits are available to those landowners impacted the most by elk use on their property,” Nordeen said. “While the total numbers of elk hunting permits for the Panhandle have increased, the demand for landowner permits has increased significantly in recent years as well.”

Landowners seeking inclusion in a zone for 2010 should do so by Dec. 31. The deadline for landowner bull elk applications will be in mid-May.

Elk hunting zones are established to identify private property that has elk usage, elk depredation and supports consistent elk habitat and numbers. The zones are much smaller than the elk hunting units used when hunters apply for elk permits. The entire Panhandle is located within elk management units, including the Hat Creek, Ash Creek, Bordeaux, and North Platte River units.

Interested landowners that have significant elk usage and can meet other requirements will be considered for acceptance into the zone.

The following are some of the changes in landowner requirements for 2010 as a result of the passage of LB 105 by the Legislature:

• – To qualify for a limited permit, a resident landowner must own 320 acres, lease 640 acres or own or lease any combination of 640 acres.
• – A limited landowner antlerless-only permit may be issued to a nonresident, or immediate family members, who own or lease 1,280 acres.
• – To qualify for a limited permit, one must be a landowner, leaseholder or member of the immediate family of landowner or leaseholder, including siblings who share ownership. A qualifying child no longer is required to live in the same household as the landowner or leaseholder.
• – The number of limited permits issued annually for each farm or ranch may not exceed the total number of acres divided by 320.
• – The Commission will begin issuing preference points in 2010 to landowners who are unsuccessful in drawing a landowner bull permit in 2010.

For more information on Panhandle elk zone landowner requirements and eligibility, contact the Alliance district office of the Commission at (308) 763-2940 or the Ponderosa Wildlife Management Area at (308) 665-2924.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA –-(AmmoLand.com)- The omission of a regulation that has been in place for decades in this year’s digest has caused some hunters and trappers to wonder whether they still are required to display their licenses in the middle of the back as has been done for many, many years. Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe answered,

“Yes, it still needs to be displayed.”

Roe noted that the Game Commission is supporting House Bill 460, sponsored by Rep. Neil Goodman (D-Schuylkill), which proposes to remove the statutory requirement that licenses be displayed, and thereby allow hunters to place their hunting license in their wallet with other ID.

Roe said, when the agency was drafting the digest, it was believed that the HB 460 may be enacted before the start of the license year on July 1. So, to avoid potentially conflicting information, a decision was made to modify the wording about the requirement that licenses must be displayed.

“License buyers do need to remember that the digest is not the ‘Game & Wildlife Code’ or its attendant regulations, and should not be considered final on legal interpretation,” Roe said. “In printing the digest, the agency simply summarizes the more important and frequently misunderstood hunting and trapping regulations.”

Arkansas Wildlife Officers Assist Iowa With Poaching Cases

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

JEFFERSON, Iowa –-(AmmoLand.com)- What began from a chance encounter on a trespassing complaint two years ago has led to 18 people, from six states, pleading guilty to various poaching violations. Wildlife officers from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission helped uncover the poaching violations.

The investigation ended with guilty pleas for illegal taking or possession of whitetail deer, no valid deer tag, illegal use of a deer tag, illegal transportation of a deer and providing false information to a peace officer.

AGFC Chief of Enforcement Mike Knoedl said that Arkansas wildlife officers are constantly working with other states to uncover hunting and fishing violations.

“We work closely with other states. We have a great working relationship with them since we have the same goals – to make sure people follow the rules and violators don’t take advantage of the resource,” Knoedl said.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources filed 48 state charges that included fines of $7,845 and $85,000 in liquidated damages for 12 illegally taken deer over a four year period in Greene County, Iowa.

Those charged include Daryl Thompson, 52, of Grand Junction, Iowa, Eric Poindexter, 32, Eufaula, Okla., David Miller, 42, of McAlester, Okla., Richard Densmore, 57, Wetumka, Okla., Marvin Autrey, 41, Wagoner, Okla., Anthony Bernhardt, 47, McAlester, Okla., Garrett Patterson, 27, McAlester, Okla., John Keys, 28, Stillwater, Okla., Andrew Oquist, 33, Knoxville, Ark., Randal Hurst, 43, Altus, Ark., Ricky Hurst, 48, Altus, Ark., Erick Hurst, 22, Altus, Ark., Steven Stubblefield, 43, Springfield, Tenn., Bryan Entrikin, 33, Ashland City, Tenn., Timmy Sanford, 29, Springfield, Tenn., Scott Keys, 38, Bossier City, La., Kenneth Gabriel, 59, Butler, Mo., and Tamara Kiner, 46, Grand Junction, Iowa.

The individuals forfeited 19 bows and accessories, 9 tree stands with ladders, 6 mounted deer heads, 5 skull capped deer racks, 1 ground blind, 1 rifle and 1 shotgun. The individuals are in the process of paying their fines and restitution.

The case arose during an unrelated poaching investigation in 2008 when Iowa DNR Conservation Officer Dan Pauley recalled a trespassing report where he had spoke with Daryl Thompson, of Grand Junction. Pauley received additional information from local residents about deer poaching and guiding activity in Greene County over the past few years that lead him back to Thompson.

In 2009, a nonresident who had pleaded guilty to poaching deer, provided information on other poaching activity that lead Pauley to other nonresidents who had similar experiences in Greene County.

Arkansas wildlife officers assist Iowa with poaching cases This information and an analysis of license buying patterns sent Pauley and Iowa Conservation Officer Nathan Haupert to fellow game wardens in Oklahoma and Missouri.

The web started to build and would eventually include poachers in Iowa, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Louisiana and Tennessee.

“We interviewed a lot of people on the case and each interview would lead us to more individuals who were involved which would lead to more charges. Most of these interviews were done either over the phone with the suspects or by a game warden from the suspect’s home state. There were days when I would be on the phone for 10 or 12 hours,” said Pauley. “There are likely more deer out there than we know about, but we got them on what we could.”

Thompson likely met some of the individuals through business contacts he made while working out of state, and would line up the land and set up deer stands. Until 2007, many individuals would buy doe tags for use as a reason for them to be deer hunting in the woods while they waited for a trophy buck. The poached deer would not be tagged or reported. The Iowa DNR stopped selling nonresident archery doe tags in 2008.

Pauley said there is no evidence that Thompson profited financially from the arrangement.

Pauley, along with fellow officer Haupert, the Greene County Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lead the six month investigation. Officers from Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri and Iowa assisted in the case.

Iowans Charged with Illegal Pursuing of Bear in Arkansas

It seems like poaching turnabout is fair play.

Officials in Arkansas filed charges against Justin Thompson, 22, Grand Junction, Iowa, for hunting bear out of season and without a license. The Iowa officers assisted with that investigation. Scott Kiner, 48, from Grand Junction, Iowa, was charged with aiding and abetting hunting bear out of season. A juvenile from Iowa was issued a written warning.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, Pa –-(AmmoLand.com)- With thousands of Pennsylvania hunters heading off to hunt big game in other states and Canadian provinces, Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe reminds hunters that, in an effort to prevent the introduction of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) into the Commonwealth, the agency prohibits hunters from importing specific carcass parts from members of the deer family – including mule deer, elk and moose – from 14 states and two Canadian provinces.

Roe noted that this importation ban is a revised executive order signed into effect in May, and affects hunters heading to: Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York (only from CWD containment area), Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, West Virginia (only from Hampshire County), Wisconsin and Wyoming; as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Roe emphasized that the new executive order prohibits hunters from bringing back the tissue described below from any cervid from these states or provinces, whether the animal was taken from the wild or from a captive, high-fence operation.

The specific carcass parts, where the CWD prions (the causative agent) concentrates in cervids, that cannot be brought back to Pennsylvania by hunters are:

• the head (including brain, tonsils, eyes and lymph nodes)
• spinal cord/backbone
• spleen
• skull plate with attached antlers, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present
• cape, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present
• upper canine teeth, if root structure or other soft tissue is present
• any object or article containing visible brain or spinal cord tissue
• unfinished taxidermy mounts; and brain-tanned hides.

Roe noted that the prohibition does not limit the importation of: meat, without the backbone; cleaned skull plate with attached antlers, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; tanned hide or raw hide with no visible brain or spinal cord tissue present; cape, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if no root structure or other soft tissue is present; and finished taxidermy mounts.

Pennsylvania hunters heading to a state with a history of CWD should become familiar with that state’s wildlife regulations and guidelines for the transportation of harvested game animals. Wildlife officials have suggested hunters in areas where CWD is known to exist follow these recommendations to prevent the possible spread of the disease:

• - Do not shoot, handle or consume any animal that appears sick; contact the state wildlife agency if you see or harvest an animal that appears sick.
• - Wear rubber or latex gloves when field-dressing carcasses.
• - Bone out the meat from your animal.
• - Minimize the handling of brain and spinal tissues.
• - Wash hands and instruments thoroughly after field-dressing is completed.
• - Request that your animal is processed individually, without meat from other animals being added to meat from your animal, or process your own meat if you have the tools and ability to do so.
• - Have your animal processed in the endemic area of the state where it was harvested, so that high-risk body parts can be properly disposed of there. Only bring permitted materials back to Pennsylvania.
• - Don’t consume the brain, spinal cord, eyes, spleen, tonsils or lymph nodes of harvested animals. (Normal field-dressing, coupled with boning out a carcass, will remove most, if not all, of these body parts. Cutting away all fatty tissue will help remove remaining lymph nodes.)
• - Consider not consuming the meat from any animal that tests positive for the disease.

Roe said hunters who harvest a deer, elk or moose in a state or province where CWD is known to exist should follow that state’s wildlife agency’s instructions on how and where to submit the appropriate samples to have their animal tested. If, after returning to Pennsylvania, a hunter is notified that his or her game tested positive for CWD, the hunter is encouraged to contact the Game Commission for disposal recommendations and assistance.

The Game Commission, with the assistance of the Pennsylvania and U.S. departments of Agriculture, has conducted tests on more than 18,000 deer and elk that have either died of unknown illnesses, were exhibiting abnormal behavior, or were killed by hunters. No evidence of CWD has been found in any of these samples.

The Game Commission will continue to monitor this disease and collect samples from deer and elk that appear sick or behave abnormally. The agency plans to test all hunter-killed elk and approximately 4,000 hunter-harvested wild deer for CWD again this year.

First identified in 1967, CWD is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) that affects cervids, including all species of deer, elk and moose. It is a progressive and always fatal disease of the nervous system. Scientists theorize CWD is caused by an unknown agent capable of transforming normal brain proteins into an abnormal form.

There currently is no practical way to test live animals for CWD, nor is there a vaccine. Clinical signs include poor posture, lowered head and ears, uncoordinated movement, rough-hair coat, weight loss, increased thirst, excessive drooling, and, ultimately, death. There is currently no scientific evidence that CWD has or can spread to humans, either through contact with infected animals or by eating meat of infected animals. The Center for Disease Control has investigated any connection between CWD and the human forms of TSEs and stated

“the risk of infection with the CWD agent among hunters is extremely small, if it exists at all” and “it is extremely unlikely that CWD would be a food-borne hazard.”

“Hunters spend a lot of time in the woods, and are a valuable source of information to wildlife agencies across the United States,” Roe said. “If a hunter sees a deer or elk behaving abnormally, or dying from unknown causes, contact the state wildlife agency and provide as much specific information as possible about where the animal was seen.”

In 2005, Pennsylvania CWD task force members completed the state’s response plan, which outlines ways to prevent CWD from entering our borders and, in the event CWD is found in Pennsylvania, how to detect it, contain it and work to eradicate it. The task force was comprised of representatives from the Governor’s Office, the Game Commission, the state Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the state Department of Health, the state Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, as well as representatives from stakeholder groups including hunters, deer farmers, deer processors and taxidermists. Initiated in 2003, a copy of the final plan can be viewed on the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) by clicking on “CWD Update” in the “Quick Clicks” box in the upper right-hand corner of the homepage.

“We know that Pennsylvania hunters are just as concerned about keeping CWD out of Pennsylvania as we are, and we are confident that they will do all they can to protect the Commonwealth’s whitetail and elk populations,” Roe said.

Other information, including tips for taxidermists and meat processors, can be found on the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) in the CWD Update.

Websites for all 50 state wildlife agencies can be accessed via the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us). Click on the “Related Links” section at the bottom of the homepage, then select “Wildlife Agencies,” and then choose the state of interest from the map.

Additional information on CWD can be found on the CWD Alliance’s website (www.cwd-info.org).

Arizona Game and Fish Department

Arizona --(AmmoLand.com)- Arizona Game and Fish Department law enforcement officers want the public to report wildlife violations, but there are things a person should and shouldn’t do at a potential crime scene.

“The desire of the public to help us catch violators is great. However, there are instances when those desires can actually hinder law enforcement efforts,” said Ken Dinquel, Operation Game Thief (OGT) program manager in Phoenix.

Dinquel explained that those encountering violations sometimes inform the violator they will be calling the Operation Game Thief 24-hour hotline.

“At that point the violator vacates the scene before law enforcement personnel can arrive,” Dinquel said. “A better approach is to avoid contact, leave the scene, and call the OGT hotline as soon as possible with details.”

Dinquel added that license plate numbers, names (if known), vehicle descriptions, and GPS (global positioning system) coordinates are all important pieces of information an officer can use.

Another common mistake is getting too close or examining a dead animal.

“Additional footprints, tire tracks, and general disturbance of the area make an investigation difficult, if not impossible,” Dinquel explained. “If the death of a wild animal appears to be suspicious, people should assume a violation has occurred, call the OGT hotline, and provide the location. Do not disturb the area around the site.”

Individuals should also remember that confronting suspected violators in the backcountry could be dangerous.

“Approaching a violator is not the best course of action,” Dinquel warned. “Allow trained law enforcement officers to handle such situations. Individuals should focus on being a good witness, but should never put themselves in harm’s way.”

Individuals witnessing or suspecting a violation can call Operation Game Thief toll free, 24 hours a day at 1-800-352-0700. Callers can remain anonymous upon request. The OGT program may pay rewards for information leading to the arrest of a suspect in a case.

For additional anti-poaching resources or to report wildlife violations online, please visit the Operation Game Thief web page at www.azgfd.gov/ogt.shtml.

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

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Whitetail Watch – Stop Poaching

Whitetails Unlimited

Wisconsin – -(AmmoLand.com)- In an attempt to help curb poaching across the country, Whitetails Unlimited has available an anti-poaching property boundary sign that is suitable for use anywhere in the United States. The sign, part of WTU’s Whitetail Watch Program, encourages anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it to their proper wildlife law enforcement agency.

In addition to the property boundary signs, other components of Whitetail Watch include wallet cards and decals. The decals and signs serve as visible reminders to poachers that local citizens are on the watch and will report any suspicious activity.

“As I have stated in the past, all true conservationists have an obligation to help fight poaching,” said WTU Executive Director Pete Gerl. “It’s as simple as being conscious of what’s happening around you while in the field and reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement.”

Poaching is a growing problem, one that occurs nationwide and takes place all year long. However, Whitetail Watch provides an avenue for concerned citizens to assist their wildlife enforcement agencies. Whitetails Unlimited experiences a rise in requests for Whitetail Watch materials in early spring, and they tend to peak in mid-fall. This time frame is when people display the most concern for poaching, but poachers are out there all year long.

“Poaching steals from all of us, destroys our natural resources, and tends to cast a negative light on the sport of regulated hunting,” Gerl said. “Wardens and law enforcement can’t be everywhere, and they need the help of all citizens to catch those who think they are above the law.”

All Whitetail Watch boundary property signs, wallet cards, and decals are available at no charge, in small quantities, by contacting WTU headquarters at 1-800-274-5471. Larger quantities are available at a very reasonable cost.

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.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA –-(AmmoLand.com)- The “long-arm of the law” caught up with George Isenberg Jr., 52, of Venetia, Washington County, who recently pled guilty of one count of unlawfully transporting illegal game into Pennsylvania, and concluded an investigation that began in January.

In January, information was given to Game Commission WCO Dan Sitler, who serves the northern district of Washington County, about Isenberg shooting a bull elk in Colorado without having a valid bull elk license issued in that state.

“The Colorado Division of Wildlife was notified of the investigation and information was shared between officers of both states regarding the investigation and findings,” WCO Sitler said. “Two search warrants were executed in January: one for high school attendance and excuse records; and the second on the Isenberg’s residence.

“The first warrant showed that his son, who actually was the one issued the bull tag was back in Pennsylvania attending school. The second warrant on the residence produced 98 packages of meat and two 2008 Colorado hunting licenses.”

Isenberg gave a written statement admitting to the taking of the 5×5 bull elk. After pleading guilty, he was ordered to pay fines and court costs of $566.50 in Pennsylvania. Earlier, he pled guilty to Colorado violations and was fined more than $2,800.

Along with the fines imposed he will also have his license revoked in Colorado and Pennsylvania.

However, Richard Palmer, Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Protection, noted that since Colorado is a member of the “Wildlife Violator Compact,” along with several other states, those other states enrolled in the compact also will honor the Colorado revocation.

“This is fine example of how two states and their wildlife agencies can work together for a common cause: protecting wildlife,” Palmer said. “It also is one example of how states place differing values on wildlife based on their fines and penalties.”

Facts from the Pennsylvania Game Commission: House Bill 1859, sponsored by House Game and Fisheries Committee Chairman Edward G. Staback (D-Lackawanna), recently was approved by the House and awaits action in the Senate. The bill would increase fines and penalties for poaching. Additionally, House Bill 1832, sponsored by Rep. Marc Gergley (D-Allegheny), would authorize Pennsylvania to join the Wildlife Violator Compact. This bill is awaiting action in the House Game and Fisheries Committee.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

AUSTIN, Texas — -(AmmoLand.com)- In preparation for implementation of new legislation, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has adopted rules allowing hunters to use crossbows during the upcoming special archery-only hunting season and authorizing persons with documented physical disabilities to use laser sighting devices.

Currently, crossbows cannot be used during an archery-only season except by persons with an upper-limb disability. Recent legislative action gave authority to the Commission to allow any person, regardless of physical ability, to use a crossbow during the archery-only season, provided the person has acquired an archery stamp and a valid Texas hunting license, except in Grayson County. Crossbows may be used in Grayson County during the special archery-only open season (Oct. 3-Nov. 6) only by hunters with an upper-limb disability who possess a physician’s statement attesting to the permanent loss of the use of fingers, hand or arm in a manner that renders a person incapable of using a longbow, compound bow or recurved bow. Any person, regardless of physical ability, may use a crossbow during the general season in Grayson County (Nov. 7-Jan. 3).

The Commission also authorized use of laser sighting devices by persons with a physical disability that renders the person incapable of using traditional firearm sights to hunt game animals and game birds. The provision is limited to lawful hunting hours in open seasons, provided the person possesses a physician’s or optometrist’s statement certifying the extent of the disability. The person must also be assisted by a person who does not have a physical disability, has a hunting license and is at least 13 years of age.

The new crossbow and laser sighting rules are both the result of bills passed by state lawmakers in the 81st Texas Legislature earlier this year. The new rules take effect Sept. 1, 2009.

Anyone planning to take advantage of the new crossbow opportunity during the special archery-only hunting season this October should review the rules and definitions for crossbow hunting in Texas. These are listed under Means and Methods in the Outdoor Annual booklet available at hunting license sales locations and on the TPWD Web site

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

OLYMPIA, WA - -(AmmoLand.com)- The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission will accept public testimony and take action on waterfowl-hunting rules, take public comments on the search for a new director for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and hear briefings on wolf management and other topics at a meeting Aug. 6-8 in Colville.

The commission, a nine-member board appointed by the governor, sets policy for WDFW.

The meeting begins at 2 p.m., Aug. 6, at the NE Washington Fairgrounds, Ag/Trade Center, 317 W. Astor St. in Colville, where commissioners will discuss the search for a new WDFW director with state Department of Personnel staff and take public input on that process. An executive session is scheduled for the rest of the afternoon, followed by a no-host buffet dinner at 6 p.m. The dinner is open to the public, but no public input will be taken.

The meeting continues at 8:30 a.m., Aug. 7, at the Sheriff’s Ambulance Training Center, 425 North Highway 395 in Colville, with briefings by WDFW staff on 2010 supplemental budget proposals, current status of wolf conservation and management, department legislative proposals for 2010 and the status of WDFW lands management and public-conduct rules.

The commission will discuss local fish and wildlife issues with elected officials, hear a briefing and public testimony on rules that implement legislative changes to the Master Hunter permit program, hear public comments, and discuss and act on 2009-10 waterfowl hunting rule proposals during the afternoon.

The meeting is scheduled to re-convene at 8:30 a.m., Aug. 8, for additional briefings, including a report by the Colville Confederated Tribes on the results of a fishing gear use survey, Commission committee reports, and open public input on any fish and wildlife topic.

For the complete agenda, see http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/meetings/2009/08/agenda_aug0609.html .

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA –-(AmmoLand.com)- Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe today praised the House of Representatives, including House Game and Fisheries Committee Chairman Edward G. Staback (D-Lackawanna), for the near unanimous approval of House Bill 1859, which would increase penalties and fines for poaching. The bill, which was sponsored by Rep. Staback, and is similar to House Bill 97, passed the House on July 21 by a vote of 196-3.

“Increasing penalties for serious violations is one of the operational objectives within the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Strategic Plan, and we welcome the House’s approval of this measure,” Roe said. “This bill recognizes poaching for the crime that it is; the stealing of natural resources from all Pennsylvanians.

“There is widespread public support for this legislation as indicated by surveys that showed 96 percent of Pennsylvania’s citizens feel that wildlife protection is a vitally important function.”

Roe said that the causes of poaching vary, but the myth that most poachers are committing their offenses to provide food for their families is, in reality, almost never the case.

“Most often, poaching today is committed by criminals driving $30,000 vehicles, using expensive night-vision technology, illegal silencers and firearms,” Roe said. “They poach wildlife for greed, notoriety, money and out of an obsessive behavior to collect antlers at any cost. A disturbing and increasingly common cause is killing simply for thrill with no intention of making use of any part of the animal.

“Enactment of this bill will mark the first comprehensive piece of legislation to increase Game and Wildlife Code Penalties since 1987, and we believe it will significantly enhance wildlife protection in the Commonwealth.”

Roe noted that the bill now goes to the Senate for consideration before being sent to Gov. Edward G. Rendell for his action.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – -(AmmoLand.com)- The Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners tabled recommendations to the 2009 waterfowl hunting regulations at its meeting Friday. In doing so, however, it recommended opening dates of the early teal and early Canada goose seasons be moved up seven days.

Many hunters appeared at the public hearing and some told the board they desired an earlier teal season to better take advantage of the peak migration.

In tabling the recommendations, the board directed the wildlife staff make any further changes, which would be based on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service framework, and amend the early teal and early Canada goose season openers to Sept. 5.

The amended recommendations will be brought before the board in its next meeting, Aug. 28. The board then could approve them and set the seasons.

A number of representatives of the tourism industry along the central Platte River spoke regarding the proposed recommendations for the light goose conservation action. One proposal would reduce the buffer zone in Zone 2, starting on March 11, to within 3 miles of the Platte River channel, instead of 5. Many said they could support a 3-mile buffer zone but nothing less than that.

Following another public hearing, the board approved amendments to wildlife regulations for Clear Creek Wildlife Management Area near Lake McConaughy. The amendments added flexibility in the language that would allow additional hunting opportunities in the future.

The board also:

– approved the acquisition of the 220-acre Hermone Tract north of Lincoln in Lancaster County, which will be managed for wildlife diversity and hunting, and designated as Little Salt Creek West Wildlife Management Area.

– granted an easement to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Indian Cave State Park near Shubert so wing dikes along the Missouri River at Indian Cave Bend may be notched and extended in an effort to enhance fishing and create shallow-water habitat to benefit the endangered pallid sturgeon.

Dr. Steven Schultz, an economist at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, presented a summary of the Niobrara River Economic Study. He was encouraged to complete the report by the Commission as part of its instream flow study of the river. Schultz said recreational floating on the river has an annual economic impact to the Valentine area of $10.9 million.

A group called Friends of Fort Hartsuff voiced its concern about budgets cuts to Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park near Burwell. The group lauded the park’s economic impact on the local area, but it said it was most concerned with access to it being reduced. Parks cuts have resulted in a 15-percent decrease in the fort’s operating budget.

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia - -(AmmoLand.com)-Several important changes in the state’s fall hunting seasons for white-tailed deer and black bear are included in the new 2009-2010 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary brochure, according to Division of Natural Resources Director Frank Jezioro. The publication is now available at all West Virginia hunting and fishing license agents, DNR District Offices, Elkins Operation Center and South Charleston Headquarters.

Hunters and trappers are encouraged to carefully review these regulations due to the numerous changes in hunting seasons, especially for deer and bear hunting, which will be in place this fall. The 2009-2010 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary is also available online at www.wvdnr.gov.

Major Changes for 2009-2010 (See brochure for details)

Black bear hunting seasons are less liberal than last year with only four counties open September 21-26; five counties open November 23 – December 5 during the Buck Season, and 44 counties open December 7-31. The daily bag and season limit is one bear this year.

There will be a one-week Special Antlerless Deer Archery Season on private land only in selected counties September 14-19, 2009. Hunters may kill one additional antlerless deer that must be checked on a Class RB or Class RRB stamp.

There will be a one-week Special Antlerless Deer Muzzleloader Season on private land only in selected counties September 21-26, 2009. Hunters make kill one additional antlerless deer that must be checked on a Class RM or Class RRM stamp.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – -(AmmoLand.com)- A public hearing regarding waterfowl hunting seasons will be conducted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Board of Commissioners at its July 17 meeting at the Commission’s Lincoln headquarters.

Staff will provide information and present possible changes in waterfowl regulations at the meeting, and Commissioners will receive public input. Public input may be provided in person or submitted in writing.

“Public input from the July 17 Commission meeting will be instrumental in developing the final amendments to be considered by the Commission for adoption at its Aug. 28 meeting,” said Jim Douglas, the Commission’s wildlife division administrator.

Amendments being considered so far are similar to last year’s. The most notable changes are to the season length and buffer area for Zone 2 of the Light Goose Conservation Action. The Zone 2 season length could be reduced from 72 days to 55, and beginning on March 11, its buffer zone could be reduced to within 3 miles of the Platte River channel instead of 5 miles.

Final information and allowable waterfowl frameworks from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are pending.

The following are preliminary Commission staff recommendations for the 2009 waterfowl hunting seasons:

• Early Teal: Low Plains: Sept. 12-27 (16 days); High Plains: Sept. 12-20 (9 days)
• Early Canada Goose: Sept. 12-20
• Youth Waterfowl Hunt: Oct. 3-4

Duck and Coot:
Low Plains Early: Oct. 10-Dec. 20 and Dec. 26-27; Low Plains Late: Oct. 17-18 and Oct. 24-Jan. 3; High Plains: Oct. 10-Jan. 13

Pintail and Canvasback (39-day season):
Low Plains Early and High Plains: Oct. 10-Nov. 17; Low Plains Late: Oct. 17-18 and Oct. 24-Nov. 29

Dark Goose
East Unit: Oct. 24-Jan. 27; North Central Unit: Oct. 10-Jan. 22; Platte River Unit: Oct. 24-Feb. 5; Panhandle Unit: Nov. 7-Feb. 5; Niobrara Unit: Oct. 24-Feb. 5

White-fronted Goose
Statewide: Oct. 10-Dec. 20

Light Goose
Regular Season (Statewide) – Oct. 10-Jan. 8 and Jan. 23-Feb. 5

Conservation Action – Zone 1: Feb. 6-April 18; Zone 2: Feb. 6-April 1; Zone 3: Feb. 6-April 18

Crow
Statewide: Oct. 1-Nov. 15 and Jan. 20-April 6
Special Public Health Hazard Order: Nov. 16-Jan. 19

Falconry
Early Season – Low Plains: Sept. 1-30 and concurrent with teal season dates within Low Plains Early and Late zones; High Plains: Concurrent with teal season dates within the High Plains zone

Regular Season – Low Plains Early: Oct. 10-Dec. 20 and Dec. 26-27; Low Plains Late: Oct. 17-18 and Oct. 24-Jan. 3; High Plains: Oct. 10-Jan. 13

New Jersey Fish and Game

Trenton, NJ - -(AmmoLand.com)- Hunters are reminded that beginning with the 2009-2010 New Jersey waterfowl hunting season, a “paper” waterfowl stamp will no longer be issued along with the waterfowl stamp privilege purchased from license agents or via the internet sales site.

Only the production of the paper stamps is being discontinued. The waterfowl stamp program itself will not be discontinued.

New Jersey waterfowl hunters must possess a current New Jersey hunting license, a current HIP certification, a current New Jersey waterfowl stamp privilege, and a current federal waterfowl stamp (available at your local post office) to participate in the season.

About:
Division of Fish and Wildlife is a professional environmental agency dedicated to the protection, management and wise use of New Jersey’s fish and wildlife resources.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

Arizona - -(AmmoLand.com)- Arizona Game and Fish Department officers have arrested five men in connection with alleged poaching activities that occurred north of Springerville in December.

Four of the men — John K. Parks, Michael E. Mangum, Jeffery D. Phillips and Frederick P. Dobson — were arrested May 15 at the Tucson Electric Power/Salt River Project generating station outside of Springerville. The four were taken into custody without incident with the assistance of power plant security staff and the Apache County Sheriff’s Department.

A fifth man, Freeman L. Kartchner, was later arrested off-site by officers.

Parks, Mangum and Kartchner were charged with unlawfully killing four mule deer does during the closed season and with the aid of a spotlight. Most of the meat was left to waste.

They were also charged with vandalism for damage caused to ranchers’ fences, gates and locks. In addition, Parks and Mangum were charged with littering for allegedly leaving a string of empty beer bottles in the area.

Phillips, who was not present during the alleged poaching incidents, was charged with providing false and misleading information to officers to protect two of the other individuals. Dobson, who also was not present during the incidents, was charged with eight counts of fraudulently obtaining resident Arizona hunting licenses and tags.

The alleged poachings occurred during the night and early morning hours of Dec. 20-21, 2008, near Richville, a rural farming and residential community located along the Little Colorado River between Springerville and St. Johns. The arrests were made as a result of a tip called in to the Game and Fish Department’s Operation Game Thief hotline.

“I’d like to recognize and commend the high level of cooperation our staff received from the power plant administration and its security personnel,” said Jim Hinkle, law enforcement program manager in the department’s Pinetop office.

Hinkle emphasized that poaching is not hunting. “The vast majority of people who hunt have a deep respect for wildlife resources and the laws established to protect them, and they are outraged by poaching. Unlawful killing of any wildlife is considered a major loss for the residents of Arizona and our wildlife resources.”

If convicted of the criminal charges, each of the men, except Phillips, will face potential license revocations and/or civil assessments from the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. The commission may civilly assess the men a minimum of $1,500 or more for the loss of each mule deer to the State of Arizona.

To report a poaching or wildlife-related violation, hunters and non-hunters alike are strongly encouraged to call the Operation Game Thief toll-free hotline at (800) 352-0700, 24 hours a day, 7 days week. Callers are eligible for a reward if the information leads to an arrest. Caller identities can remain anonymous upon request.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. - -(AmmoLand.com)- Georgia Department of Natural Resources officers charged seven people with a total of 113 poaching-related counts in Dodge and Laurens counties this week.

The investigation sparked by complaints and started in March resulted in search warrants served at the Rentz home of Michael Warren and a home and cabin owned by William Stacy Jones of Eastman on May 18. Evidence seized varied from computers to animal parts, said Sgt. Keith Byers of the DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division. The counts range from hunting deer at night to possession of illegally taken wildlife, hunting out of season and taking over the bag limit. Most involved deer or turkeys.

“In my 28 years (with the division), I’ve never seen anything like this,” Byers said of the amount of evidence and scope of violations.

Those charged were William Stacy Jones, 31, of Eastman (70 charges); Mary Michelle Warren, 28, of Eastman (17 charges); Michael Warren, 30, of Rentz (nine charges); Cody Coleman, 21, of Marietta (six charges); Durwood “Trey” Graham III, 29, of Eastman (four charges); Summer Page, 28, of Rentz (four charges); and, Brandon Brisco, 31, of Eastman (three charges).

Each misdemeanor count carries a maximum penalty of up to a $1,000 fine and up to a year in jail. Other charges are possible. Most were filed in Dodge County. Michael Warren faces five counts in Laurens County.

Byers said complaints about the suspects increased in February. An investigation was opened in March. Two months later, Cpl. Johnny Ashe and Rangers 1st Class Rodney Horne and Barry Britt served search warrants at the homes of William Stacy Jones and Michael Warren, leading to the arrests and the array of charges.

Byers explained that such investigations take time. Rangers spent hours working the case, sorting evidence and making charges. “When looking at evidence you have to basically connect the dots that lead you back to a suspect,” Byers said. “In this case, there were a lot of dots to connect.”

Bonds for the suspects range from $1,500 to $15,000.

Georgians can report game and fish violations by calling the TIP hotline, 1-800-241-4113, or by e-mailing TurnInPoachers@dnr.state.ga.us. For more information, visit www.georgiawildlife.com (select the TIP logo on the bottom of the home page), contact your local Wildlife Resources Division Law Enforcement office or call (770) 918-6414.

Ohio Division of Wildlife

COLUMBUS, OH - -(AmmoLand.com)- Since Ohio became an Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact (IWVC) member state on January 1, 2008, 146 violators have been entered into the system by Ohio wildlife law enforcement officers. Ohio has also reviewed and agreed to recognize over 6,500 suspensions entered in the database by 30 other member states.

In June of 2008, the first entries in the database by Ohio officials were made. Wisconsin fishermen had taken twice the daily limit of walleye from Lake Erie. Their suspensions were recognized in their home state, and one of the men was caught fishing under revocation this past spring. He now has another year added on to his suspension.

“The suspension of hunting, trapping or fishing privileges is a powerful deterrent for violations,” said Ken Fitz, law enforcement program administrator.

Fitz cites two other instances where the system worked well. One person from Michigan was suspended in Ohio, then went to Florida on a fishing trip and tried to buy a license and was denied. A Pennsylvania resident was suspended in Montana, when he contacted the ODNR Division of Wildlife to inquire about hunting here; he was told he cannot hunt in Ohio until his suspension ends.

Entries made by Ohio officers include citizens of Ohio (128), Wisconsin (12), Illinois (3), Michigan (2) and Tennessee (1).

The IWVC is an agreement between states that was developed to recognize hunting, trapping, and fishing license suspensions across state lines. The IWVC was begun in 1991, with Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington joining that year. Since that time, over 24,000 entries have been made in the national database used to track suspended violators. Each state must review entries in the database, and recognizes suspensions from other states based upon their individual laws or criteria.

The agreement also allows nonresident violators from a compact member state to be treated the same as a resident of the state where a violation occurs. In the past, nonresidents were immediately taken to jail or had to pay their fine immediately, but were not allowed to pay through the mail. Under the agreement, nonresident violators can be issued a summons (ticket) and allowed to pay through the mail. If they do not pay, their hunting, trapping, and fishing privileges are suspended in all member states until they pay or appear in court.

Member states are listed at http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Home/tabid/20979/Default.aspx. Several more states are in the process of completing the necessary legislative action to join. For more information, check the ODNR Division of Wildlife Web site at wildohio.com.

About:
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

West Virginia DNR

West Virgina - -(AmmoLand.com)- Anyone who wants to report hunting or fishing law violations is advised to follow a new procedure announced by the DNR Law Enforcement Section. “We are doing this to ensure a quicker response to the public,” said Lt. Col. Jerry Jenkins of DNR Law Enforcement.

For non-emergency calls or questions, or to report questionable hunting or fishing activity, telephone calls should be made directly to the closest of six DNR District Offices.

For emergencies or to report game law violations in progress, calls should go to local 911 centers, which can communicate directly with local law enforcement officers for response.

“In the past, DNR had a 1-800 number for reporting game violations, but that proved to be inefficient and expensive in recent years,” said Jenkins. “By calling directly to the District Offices or the local 911 centers, the public will be assured of receiving the fastest and most accurate responses possible.”

WVDNR District Offices

District 1 – Farmington (304) 825-6787

(Barbour, Brooke, Hancock, Harrison, Marshall, Marion, Monongalia, Ohio, Preston, Taylor, Tucker and Wetzel counties)

District 2 – Romney (304) 822-3551

(Berkeley, Grant, Hampshire, Hardy, Jefferson, Mineral, Morgan, and Pendleton counties)

District 3 – Elkins (304) 637-0245

(Braxton, Clay, Lewis, Nicholas, Pocahontas, Randolph, Upshur, and Webster counties)

District 4 – Beckley (304) 256-6945

(Fayette, Greenbrier, McDowell, Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming counties)

District 5 – Nitro (304) 759-0703

(Boone, Cabell, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, Mason, Mingo, Putnam, and Wayne counties)

District 6 – Parkersburg (304) 420-4550

(Calhoun, Doddridge, Gilmer, Jackson, Pleasants, Tyler, Ritchie, Roane, Wirt, and Wood counties)

National Rifle Association

Trenton, NJ - -(AmmoLand.com)- Governor Jon Corzine (D-NJ) has signed Senate Bill 802, which will permit bow hunting on Sundays during the respective deer season dates on state wildlife management areas and private property.

S802 was sponsored by State Senator Stephen Sweeney (D-3) and received strong bi-partisan support in both the Senate and Assembly.

Please contact Senator Sweeney at (856) 251-9801 or sensweeney@njleg.org and thank him for supporting New Jersey’s rich hunting heritage.

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX — -(AmmoLand.com)- The 2009-10 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations are available now at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Web site at www.azgfd.gov/draw. Applications are now being accepted for hunting permits for fall deer, turkey, juniors-only javelina, bighorn sheep, buffalo, bear, mountain lion and pheasant (antelope and elk are already complete).

The application deadline for the fall draw is Tuesday, June 9, by 7 p.m. (MST) – postmarks do not count. Those applying are reminded there is no online application process available. All requests must be via the paper application process only – either by dropping the application off at any department office or by U.S. mail.

All of the materials needed to apply are available at www.azgfd.gov/draw, including a digital PDF application that can be filled out using a computer for improved legibility, some minor error prevention and convenience. However, the PDF form must be printed, signed and submitted (along with the correct fees using check or money order) by mail, or by hand delivery to any department office. The form can also be printed and filled out using an ink pen.

Printed copies of the 2009-10 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet, applications and envelopes are anticipated to be available at license dealers statewide by mid-May.

Applicants should note, there is a new P.O. Box for submitting hunt permit applications and the new address should be reflected on the new envelopes. The new address is Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Drawing Section, PO Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052. However, applications mailed to the old address will be automatically forwarded to the new address.

Hunters are reminded to avoid a couple common mistakes when applying for a fall hunt permit-tag. Common errors include using Game Management Unit numbers (one to two-digit sometime with letter code) in lieu of the hunt numbers (four-digit), incorrect payment amount, and using the wrong years hunting license number are just a few.

Speaking of errors, apply early and take advantage of the grace period. Here’s how it works: if your application has a mistake and is received by May 28, the department will attempt to call you three times in a 24-hour period and give you the opportunity to correct the mistake. After that date, mistakes can cause your application to be rejected.

New this year, pheasant applications are now due at the same time as the other big game species, Tuesday, June 9. This improvement will eliminate remembering an additional deadline date for this permitted hunt and it should simplify the internal processing of these applications.

Another change to the tag allocation process for this year is an improved system for distributing leftover tags through the first-come, first-served process. The by mail-only process using an application will still apply starting Aug. 3 at 8 a.m. However, after 8 a.m. on Aug. 10, remaining tags may be purchased at any department office.

Compared to last year, the changes to hunt structures are relatively minor, and there is a reason for that. Every two years (odd numbered years), the department reviews the existing hunt guidelines. Hunt guidelines are the “recipes” used to formulate the annual hunt recommendations in which sportsmen participate. The direction for the next guideline revision is to standardization, simplification, and increasing hunter participation and 2009 marks the ground floor and hunters are encouraged to participate in the process. If you have an idea or suggestion, submit it to the hunt guideline team through May 31 to azgamebranch@azgfd.gov or to Hunt Guidelines, Arizona Game and Fish Department, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086.

To learn more about the hunt guideline process, to review and download the current guidelines, visit www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines.

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

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX — -(AmmoLand.com)- The Arizona Game and Fish Department is accepting public input for revising the state’s hunt guidelines now through the end of May. Comments may be submitted either electronically via email or mail them directly to the department headquarters in Phoenix.

The hunt guidelines set the framework (biological and social) that the department uses to develop specific hunt recommendations and set permit levels, season dates and season structures.

Every two years, on odd-numbered years, the department reviews and revises the existing hunt guidelines and recommends changes that address the direction given by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. The guidance for the 2009 package, which will be the framework for setting the 2010-11 and 2011-12 hunting season structures, is for standardization, simplification, and increasing hunter participation.

“This is your opportunity to get involved. The department needs your thoughts and ideas on how to meet the demand for hunting opportunities,” said Brian Wakeling, chief of game management. “What can we do different with our hunt structures to make it better for hunters, while still managing within biological sideboards? And what are your thoughts and ideas on how we can get more hunters engaged and in the field?”

The current hunt guidelines to be revised can be reviewed and downloaded at www.azgfd.gov/pdfs/h_f/huntingrecommendations/2009/HuntGuidelines.pdf.

Please submit ideas and comments through May 31 to azgamebranch@azgfd.gov or to Hunt Guidelines, Arizona Game and Fish Department, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086.

After all the comments are received, reviewed, and processed, the department will host nine public meetings across the state, from June 10-25, to present the proposed revisions, answer questions, and to collect any additional public input. A final draft will then be prepared and posted at the department’s Web site prior to being presented to the commission for approval at its Sept. 11-12 meeting in Phoenix.

The Arizona Game and Fish Commission and Department want to accommodate the many varied desires of our hunting and nonhunting public. Wildlife is managed in the public trust for all Arizonans; this is how the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation is perpetuated.

To learn more about the hunt guideline process, and listing of public meeting dates and locations, visit www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines.

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

New Jersey Outdoor Alliance

Trenton, NJ - -(AmmoLand.com)- I am a lifelong resident of New Jersey and deeply committed to the conservation of the state’s land, water and ecology. So, I’d like to speak to a piece of legislation that will benefit the quality of our state’s ecology and now awaits the Governor’s signature – 14 days of Sunday bow hunting.

It is little wonder why there are so many misconceptions regarding a bill that allows bow hunting on Sunday. New Jersey is one of the most disparate of all the world’s cultures; a spot where the roots of rural rearing and “living off of the land” are mere acres from the treadmill of metropolitan life and an existence dependent on modern conveniences. It is a setting that has flamed the fuels of more than one culture war but perhaps a little education can quell any fervor regarding Sunday bow hunting.

The basis for the legislation is founded on the precept of conservation. Conservation is the wise and deliberate use of a resource so that the entirety of its condition is safeguarded. Humankind’s survival is based on the consumption of natural resources such as water for drinking, trees for houses and animals for subsistence. Since people are dependent on resource availability we must strike a balance between consumption and the ability of the ecology to regenerate.

Balance is also central to the health of ecology and has as its custodian “Mother Nature.” When an aspect under her care is out of balance she labors to restore it. In the case of deer, an overabundance eventually leads to the devouring of forest undergrowth, a food source that sustains not only deer but other wildlife. As the fodder is depleted all of the links in the food chain are impacted leading to starvation, disease and death. Population levels are compromised until the remaining habitat is able to sustain the feeding demands of the surviving animals. Ideally, the flora and fauna eventually repopulate and flourish. It is a dynamic process, one that ebbs and flows and may take years or decades to attain equilibrium.

Since humankind is also dependent on natural resources for survival, modern society has augmented the role of hunting to assist Mother Nature in maintaining a balance in her ecology. The Division of Fish and Wildlife uses science as the foundation for determining excess deer populations and then institutes strict “bag limits” as a means for hunters to cull the excess deer. Deer culling also provides food for the hunter and his or her family. Should the hunter be prohibited from harvesting the excess deer he would likely join in the lines at the local food market adding to the demand for institutionally slaughtered animals such as turkeys, chickens, pigs, and cows. In America, more than 1 billion of these animals are raised, slaughtered and distributed to market annually so that people may avoid the labor of hunting.

Hunting is not only an honest way of obtaining food it is also eco-friendly. A hunter may use the forest to find his prey but leaves the ecology undisturbed. This is not the case with animal husbandry or farming. Farms are often built by razing the ecology and displacing wildlife, non-native grasses may be introduced as feed as are non-indigenous livestock. These animals are then slaughtered and trucked to market. Scientists tell us that methane gasses and carbon monoxide are byproducts of farming and food distribution, which adds to global warming. This is in stark contrast to the hunter who leaves no footprint on the ecology.

We should also keep in mind that not only is hunting a contemporary conservation tool it also provides societal benefits. Populations of deer in balance with the surrounding habitat will minimize car-deer collisions. Each roadside deer carcass is a story of a car accident. It is a headstone for financial loss, personal injury or death.

The addition of Sunday bow hunting will provide relief from agriculture losses due to deer feeding, which are currently estimated at 20% per year. It will aid in the reduction of residential landscape damage and lessen the chance of people contracting Lyme disease. It will help boost the sales of hunting licenses, which will add revenue to be used to improve natural resource management.

It must also be noted that the bill restricts Sunday bow hunting to private property and Wildlife Management Areas only. WMAs were originally purchased from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and operational funding is still provided in this manner. Sunday bow hunting would still be prohibited in State Parks, County Parks and Municipal Parks and only amounts to 14 Sundays (24 in some zones) because hunting is limited to certain months of a year.

I suppose it was science and facts like those stated that were carefully considered by the legislators that voted to support Sunday bow hunting. The bill was passed in the assembly and senate by a super-majority and is a statement of commitment to a sound ecology and to prioritizing the safety of New Jerseyans.

On behalf of the 650,000 conservationists who hunt, fish and reside in New Jersey and for the reasons detailed above I urge Governor Corzine to sign Sunday bow hunting into law.

Anthony P. Mauro, Sr is an author on the subject of conservation. He is also Chairman of the New Jersey Outdoor Alliance Conservation Foundation, an organization dedicated to environmental conservation.

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

Ohio Division of Wildlife

FINDLAY, OHIO – -(TheOutdoorWire.com)- Three Kalida residents were arraigned in the Putnam County Court during the month of December for hunting deer with the use of radios.

William J. Gerding, 53, Benjamin A. Gerding, 33, and Jason D. Ricker, 35, were cited on December 2, 2008 following a law enforcement project operated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. The project was initiated after several complaints were received. One of the individuals was also cited for not wearing proper hunter orange during a deer gun season.

On March 9, 2009 the three men plead no contest and were found guilty by Judge Michael O’Malley. Benjamin A. Gerding received a total of $300 in fines, $150 in court costs and was sentenced to 70 days in jail. The jail time was suspended on the condition that he does not violate any similar law or wildlife rule for 2 years. He was also ordered to pay $500 in restitution for the deer that he harvested by use of radios. Jason D. Ricker received a $200 fine, $75 in court costs and was sentenced to 60 days in jail.

The jail time was suspended on condition that he does not violate any similar law or wildlife rule for 2 years. William J. Gerding received a $200 fine, $75 in court costs and was sentenced to 60 days in jail. The jail time was suspended on the condition that he does not violate any similar law or wildlife rule for 2 years. William J. Gerding’s hunting privileges were suspended for 2 years due to his prior convictions of wildlife offenses. Additionally, because Ohio participates in a multi-state Wildlife Violator Compact, Mr. Gerding’s hunting privileges will also be suspended in 31 other states.

All of the radios involved in the violations were forfeited by the court to the Division of Wildlife and the deer meat was ordered to be donated to a local food pantry. Judge O’Malley concluded court by saying that what these men were doing could not be considered sporting. He further stated that if this case had gone to trial and they were found guilty he would have fined them the maximum fines and suspended their hunting privileges for the maximum amount of time that the law would allow.

Judge O’Malley commended the Division of Wildlife for their efforts on this case and for the job they do.

Putnam County Wildlife Officer Jason Porinchok noted that public involvement played an important role in this case. Officer Porinchok encourages those with information on wildlife violations to call him at 419.429.8391 or use the 1.800 POACHER hotline.

HAMILTON, Texas — -(AmmoLand.com)-  Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials and partners from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, the Police Activities League and the Texas Game Warden Association will break ground April 9 on the first phase of a planned $20 million training complex in Hamilton County.

Major donors will be recognized at the April 9 groundbreaking, and cadets from the 54th Texas Game Warden Academy class will be participating in scheduled field training exercises at the site.

For more than 30 years, game warden cadets trained in a converted warehouse on 6.2 acres in downtown Austin, along with a patchwork of borrowed facilities around the state.

That changed when the 54th Texas Game Warden Academy cadet class began training in fall 2008 at existing facilities on a 220-acre property in Hamilton County. Envisioned from the beginning as a public-private partnership, the property was donated by the nonprofit Police Activities League.

The Texas Legislature authorized an initial infusion of $3.6 million from the sale of the Austin property to begin construction on 39,000 square feet of instructional, administrative and residential facilities. Along with the state’s initial investment, private donors have so far given about $6.4 million, altogether providing about half the estimated $20 million that will be required to complete construction of facilities that will be home to 48 cadets and 16 instructors at a time. With the first phase of the project underway, project partners are launching a broader public fundraising campaign and encourage Texans to support Texas Game Wardens with a donation.

The Game Warden Training Center eventually will include a water rescue training facility, a firing range, an emergency vehicle operations course and more (see complete plans online) — specialized training facilities that add dozens of hours in travel time and thousands of dollars to the training schedule now. The goal is a world-class training environment for a world-class law enforcement agency.

“Every day, every night, for more than a century, Texas game wardens have epitomized community-based conservation law enforcement across our state,” said Peter Holt, chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. “They put their lives on the line, take educational messages to schools, save lives during hurricanes and floods, and do it all with a positive, can-do outlook. Sometimes they pay the ultimate price. Now, with this training center, game wardens could use some help. We hope the people of Texas will respond with donations to help us meet our fundraising goal.”

Since 1895, Texas game wardens have built a reputation as “off-the-pavement” peace officers with a heritage second only to the legendary Texas Rangers. Sixteen have died in the line of duty.

That proud tradition of service is carried on today by more than 500 men and women who reflect the diversity of the people of Texas. They come from small towns and some of the nation’s largest urban areas. Many have degrees in criminal justice or wildlife management or biology. Others studied the humanities, and worked as bankers and graphic designers, city cops and schoolteachers, before gaining entrance to the Game Warden Academy.

Something they all have in common is their dedication and desire to serve the people of Texas, and to help conserve the state’s natural and cultural resources.

Only about 10 percent of applicants to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s law enforcement training program make the cut each year. Those who are accepted undergo the most rigorous training of any peace officer in Texas, and are widely acclaimed as the best-trained and best-educated conservation law enforcement officers in the nation. It’s a program with an international reputation.

In the most recent cadet class, two trainees hailed from the nascent conservation agency of the Mexican state of Nuevo Leon. Conservation organizations hope to send officers from as far away as Africa to attend future courses.

Applications are being accepted through April 30 for the 55th Texas Game Warden Academy class.

Major donors to the Texas Game Warden Training Center include William P. Clements, Lee M. Bass, TXU, T.D. Friedkin, T.L.L. Temple Foundation, Edwin L. Cox, Walter Umphrey and the George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation.

For more information about how to make a tax-deductible donation to support construction of the training center, please visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Web site.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

PHOENIX, Az — The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s proposed recommendations for the 2009-10 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations are now available for review at a series of open houses at the regional offices and in PDF format on the department’s Web site at www.azgfd.gov/h_f/hunt_guidelines.shtml.

The 2009-10 recommendations take into consideration the public input received from a series of regional public forums held in March. Department officials said this new process addresses the concerns of hunters earlier in the process, when there is still time to make changes if they are warranted, and give constituents a look at any potential changes before they happen.

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

The open house schedules are:

• Tuesday, April 7, 3-6 p.m. – Kingman regional office, 5325 N. Stockton Hill Road
• Tuesday, April 14, 4-6 p.m. – Pinetop regional office, 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd.
• Tuesday, April 14, 4-6 p.m. – Flagstaff regional office, 3500 S. Lake Mary Road
• Tuesday, April 14, 3-5 p.m. – Yuma regional office, 9140 E. 28th St.
• Tuesday, April 14, 5-7 p.m. – Tucson regional office, 555 N. Greasewood Road
• Tuesday, April 14, 3-5 p.m. – Mesa regional office, 7200 E. University Drive

The final recommendations are scheduled to be presented to the Arizona Game andFish Commission for consideration during its April 17-18 meeting in Phoenix at the department headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix (1.5 miles west of I-17). The agenda will be posted at www.azgfd.gov/commission under commission agenda.

Each year, the department makes recommendations to the commission regarding the management of big game species for the annual hunting and trapping regulations, which establish the seasons, dates, bag limits, open areas, and hunt permit-tag allocations based on the framework of the hunt guidelines set by the commission every two years. The next guidelines will be set in the summer of 2010 for hunting seasons 2010-11 and 2011-12.

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

Nevada Division of Wildlife

Nevada - -(TheOutdoorWire.com)- The Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners will hold a Special Telephonic Commission Meeting on Monday, April 6 at 9 a.m. to discuss wildlife legislation pending at the Nevada State Legislature.

The Board of Wildlife Commissioners will be meeting via teleconference; the public is invited to participate in the meeting and provide public comment at the following locations: NDOW Headquarters in Reno, 1100 Valley Road; NDOW Elko Office, 60 Youth Center Road; and NDOW Las Vegas Office, 4747 Vegas Drive.

Wildlife Commissioner David McNinch requested the special meeting at a recent Wildlife Commission meeting in Reno, stating he felt it was an important duty of the commission to review pending wildlife legislation. A number of commissioners stated that they felt that taking a formal position on legislation was an important and essential duty of the commission, and the commission unanimously approved the special meeting.

An estimated 16 wildlife bills are pending at the Nevada State Legislature. The Board may take action to support or oppose individual items of legislation.

The Special Commission meeting agenda, and language of the bill draft requests is posted on the Nevada Department of Wildlife website at www.ndow.org.

About:
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

LITTLE ROCK Ar –-(AmmoLand.com)- Arkansas youth deer hunters will enjoy two extra days for their modern gun hunt and a relaxed antler restriction during the upcoming deer season. Commissioners from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission formally approved the regulation changes as part of the 2009-10 hunting season-setting process at its monthly meeting last week.

Two additional days will be added to the youth modern gun deer hunt on Jan. 2-3 to go along with Nov. 7-8 youth hunt. The Jan. 2-3 days will be bucks only in zones 1, 1A, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 4B, 5, 5A, 5B, 10, 11, 13, 14 and 15. No hunters 65 years and older are allowed to harvest deer during the January youth hunt. The bag limit revision allows a youth to take any buck (no antler restrictions) during any season. Youths must comply with the zone or WMA seasonal bag limit.

One major change revised several of the current deer zones. The changes modify the existing boundaries for deer zones 1, 2, 3, 14 and 15; dividing deer zone 6 into three zones and splitting deer zone 8 into two zones. The changes were introduced to address goals of the Strategic Deer Management Plant. The new zones will be 1A, 6A and 8A.

Another change for deer season removed the zone doe quota permit requirements for zones 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, and 11 in order to manage the doe harvest utilizing doe days. The zone doe quota permits will be replaced with doe days to manage the doe deer herd in Arkansas.

A change in the antler restrictions from a 3-point rule to a 4-point rule in deer zones 16, 16A and 17 was also approved. The change allows for a buck with at least one main beam 18 inches or more in length, regardless of the number of antler points, to be harvested.

A proposal to add telephone checking also was approved by the commission. The proposed change would eliminate all county check stations as well as check sheet programs. Deer Management Assistance Program camps will continue to receive check sheets so biological data can be collected. The new checking option begins with the October archery season. Along with the phone checking, on-line checking will still be available as will the check sheets at DMAP camps. The change allows more real-time, accurate data for the AGFC biologists.

Season dates for the 2009-2010 deer hunting season:

Archery – All zones: Oct. 1 to Feb. 28.

Modern Gun – Zones 1, 1A, 2, 3, 6, 6A, 7, 8, 8A, 10 and 11: Nov. 14-Dec. 6.
Zone 4: Nov. 14-15.
Zone 5: Nov. 14-15 and Nov. 21-22.
Zone 4A, 5A, 13, 14 and 15: Nov. 14-Dec. 13.
Zones 4B and 5B: Nov. 14-22.
Zones 9 and 12: Nov. 14-Dec. 20.
Zone 16, 16A and 17: Nov. 14-Dec. 25.

Muzzleloader – Zones 1, 1A, 2, 3, 4A, 5A, 6, 6A, 7, 8, 8A, 10, 11, 13, 14 and 15: Oct.17-25 and Dec. 19-21.
Zones 9, 12, 16, 16A and 17: Oct. 17-25 and Dec. 29-31.
Zones 4, 4B, 5 and 5B: Closed.

The statewide Christmas holiday modern gun deer hunt is Dec. 26-28 with two special youth modern gun deer hunts.

During the special modern gun youth deer hunt, holders of 65+ licenses, who are accompanying a hunting youth, will be allowed to hunt deer and take the bag limit legal for the deer zone or WMA in which they are hunting.

The commission also announced the 2010 opening dates for deer season. Archery deer season will open on Oct. 1, 2010 followed by muzzleloader season on Oct. 16, 2010 and modern gun season on Nov. 13, 2010. The 2009-2010 public meeting dates for various wildlife were also announced. The 2009 waterfowl meetings will be held June 2 from 7-9 p.m., spring turkey on Aug. 25 from 7-9 p.m. and the 2009-2010 general hunting public meetings on Jan. 5, 2010 from 7-9 p.m.

Fall turkey season was also set by the commission:

Fall Wild Turkey Archery/Crossbow Seasons:
Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 4B, 5, 5A, 5B, 6, 7, 7A, 8, 9, 9A, 10 and 17: Oct. 1, 2009-Feb. 28, 2010. Zone 1A: Closed.

Fall Wild Turkey Firearms Season:
Zones 3, 5B, 6, and 17: Oct. 26-Nov. 1, 2009. Zones 1, 1A, 2, 4, 4A, 4B, 5, 5A, 7, 7A, 8, 9, 9A and 10: Closed.

In other business, the commission:

*Voted against an emergency proclamation on banning turtle harvest and directed the staff to consider the issue during the normal fishing regulation setting cycle.

*Heard a proposal to close Coal Pile Lake to hunting. Fishing and non-hunting activities would be allowed.

*Heard a proposal to revise hunting regulations on Choctaw Island WMA West Unit for the upcoming hunting seasons.

Ohio Division of Wildlife

COLUMBUS, OH - -(AmmoLand.com)- September 1 will again kick-off the state’s fall hunting seasons – with the opening of the squirrel-hunting season that runs through January 31 – under regulations approved Wednesday by the Ohio Wildlife Council.

The statewide muzzleloader season will move to early January. Season dates are January 9-12, 2010, which includes two weekend days.

Two additional northwest Ohio counties will be open for fall turkey hunting, October 10-November 29, bringing the total to 48 counties statewide. Spring turkey season for 2010 will be April 19-May 16, 2010. Spring gobbler hunters will be able to hunt all day the last two weeks (May 3-16, 2010) of the four-week season. Legal hunting hours during those two weeks will be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.

The ruffed grouse bag limit will be cut from three to two, and the season will end on January 31, 2010. Grouse populations continue long-term declines with flush rates and harvest rates at record lows.

Deer hunters can again buy additional antlerless deer permits at reduced prices for hunting in an urban zone, participating in a Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunt or hunting during the September 26 to November 29 portion of the deer season. The deadline for using the antlerless permit will be extended to December 6 for those hunting in Deer Zone C. Cost of the antlerless deer permit remains $15.

A hunter can take only one buck in Ohio, regardless of zone, hunting method or season.

Hunters must purchase a regular deer permit before purchasing antlerless deer permits. The sale of antlerless permits will cease after November 29, so hunters need to commit early to buying and using the extra, reduced-cost opportunity.

The regulations maintain the same deer zones as the last four years. Zone C will cover 38 central, southern, southeastern, and southwestern counties. There will be 30 counties in Zone B and 20 northwestern counties in Zone A.

The maximum number of deer that a hunter can take in Zone A is two. Prior to November 30, hunters can take up to two deer in Zone A, one of which can be on a $15 antlerless deer permit. Beginning November 30, hunters can take only one deer in Zone A and antlerless permits cannot be used.

The maximum number of deer that a hunter can take in Zone B is four. Prior to November 30, hunters can take up to four deer in Zone B, two of which can be on a $15 antlerless deer permit. Beginning November 30, hunters can take only two deer in Zone B and antlerless permits cannot be used.

The maximum number of deer that a hunter can take in Zone C is six. Prior to December 7, hunters can take up to six deer in Zone C, three of which can be on a $15 antlerless deer permit. Beginning December 7, hunters can take only three deer in Zone C and antlerless permits cannot be used.

Another change for deer hunters includes those hunting in urban units and at Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts will have a six-deer bag limit, and those deer will not count against the hunter’s zone bag limit. Antlerless deer permits can be used for the entire season in urban deer units or Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts.

A valid hunting license and proper deer permits are required to hunt deer in Ohio. A hunter can take only one buck in Ohio, regardless of zone, hunting method or season.

Archery season will run from Saturday, September 26 through Sunday, February 7, 2010. The popular youth deer-gun season is for Saturday and Sunday, November 21-22. During the youth deer-gun season, zone bag limits will apply to young hunters. Any deer taken will be part of the young hunter’s total season limit.

Deer-gun season will run Monday, November 30 through Sunday, December 6 and Saturday and Sunday, December 19-20. Statewide muzzleloader season will run Saturday, January 9 through Tuesday, January 12, 2010.

Special area muzzleloader hunts will be open Monday, October 19 through Saturday, October 24 at Salt Fork, Shawnee, and Wildcat Hollow. Hunters can use either a deer permit or an antlerless deer permit for this hunt. The bag limit remains at one deer of either sex with any antlered deer harvested counting toward the hunter’s one-buck yearly limit.

During the 2008-2009 season, which concluded February 1, hunters bagged a record 252,017 deer. Approximately 475,000 people hunted white-tailed deer in Ohio this past season.

Hunting and trapping seasons for rabbit, pheasant, quail, squirrel, fox, raccoon, mink, muskrat, beaver, river otter, crow, and falconry were approved as proposed.

Rules and season dates for mourning dove, Canada goose, rail, moorhen, snipe, and migratory waterfowl hunting will be set in August, in compliance with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s 2009-10 framework.

All hunting and trapping season dates and rules can be found at wildohio.com.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

GoHuntGeorgia.com

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. - -(AmmoLand.com)- The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division will hold three public hearings to receive input on proposed changes to the hunting regulations for the 2008-2009 and the 2010-2011 hunting seasons. The purpose of any proposed regulation change is to manage Georgia’s game birds and game animals according to sound principles of wildlife management and to meet public objectives for use of these renewable natural resources. Those interested are encouraged to bring these hearings to the attention of others who also may wish to participate.

Proposed changes include amendments to reflect statutory changes, manage white-tailed deer populations through either-sex days, set seasons for rails and woodcock, expand alligator opportunity, expand counties open to bear hunting in north Georgia, regulate hunting and other activities on wildlife management areas and others state lands, adjust scheduling of hunting seasons in accordance with calendar date changes, and changes to firing range rules.

Members of the general public will have an opportunity to provide input at the following Division sponsored public hearings:

- Tuesday, April 14, 2009; 7 p.m.; Waycross Courtroom; 800 Church Street; Waycross

-Wednesday, April 15, 2009; 7 p.m.; Canton City Hall; Meeting Room/Courtroom; 151 Elizabeth Street; Canton

-Wednesday, April 15, 2009; 7 p.m.; Walter Williams Recreation Park; 59 Hwy. 22 West; Milledgeville

Any participant at the hearing may present data, make a statement or comment or offer a viewpoint or argument, either orally or in writing. Statements should be concise to permit everyone an opportunity to speak. Participants are required to register upon arrival and notify the registering official of their intent to give a statement. Those unable to attend the hearings may submit statements electronically through the Division website at www.gohuntgeorgia.com or by mail prior to close of business May 8, 2009. Written statements should be mailed to:

Georgia Department of Natural Resources / Wildlife Resources Division / Game Management Section / Attn: John W. Bowers / 2070 U.S. Highway 278, S.E. / Social Circle, Georgia 30025

These meetings are accessible to people with physical disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to John Bowers at the above address by April 10, 2009.

The Board of Natural Resources will consider the proposed changes and any comments received during the public hearing process May 27, 2009 at 9 a.m. at the DNR Boardroom at 2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, SE, Suite 1252, Atlanta, Georgia.

For more information on the scheduled public hearings or to view the proposed regulation changes, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com. For additional information or to receive a copy of proposed regulation changes by mail, contact John W. Bowers at (770) 918-6404.

OLYMPIA - -(OutdoorWire.com)- The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission will consider adopting a three-year package of statewide hunting seasons and rules during a public meeting scheduled April 3-4 in Olympia.

The commission, which sets policy for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), will meet both days at 8:30 a.m. in Room 172 of the Natural Resources Building at 1111 Washington St. S.E.

Hunting seasons under consideration include those for deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, black bear, cougar and small game in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

Commissioners also will consider proposed revisions in special seasons and hunting restrictions; opportunities for terminally ill and disabled hunters; landowner hunting permits and damage-prevention permit hunts; trapping seasons; big game and wild turkey auctions, raffle and special-incentive permits; special closures and game management unit boundary descriptions; non-toxic shot requirements; and hunting equipment restrictions.

The commission is scheduled to take action on the three-year hunting plan April 4, the second day of the public meeting. Proposals now before the commission are posted at http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/seasonsetting/index.htm recommendations on the WDFW website.

Several of those proposals reflect changes made in response to public testimony at the commission’s meeting last month in Ellensburg, said Dave Ware, WDFW game manager. No further public testimony is scheduled on the three-year hunting plan at the April 3-4 commission meeting.

The proposals, developed after extensive public involvement, are based on the 2009-15 Game Management Plan, available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/management/2009-2015/ .

On the first day of the meeting, the commission is scheduled to take action on two proposed land transactions and will receive briefings from WDFW staff on issues ranging from the state’s aquaculture industry to illegal marijuana growing on public lands.

A meeting agenda and background materials are posted on the commission’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/meetings.html .

Pennsylvania - -(AmmoLand.com)- Two York County residents recently pled guilty to illegally killing four deer and one wild turkey in Clearfield County, according to Pennsylvania Game Commission officials.

Jeffrey Alan Smith, 48, of Hanover, and Keith Eugene Myers, 45, of York, pled guilty before District Judge Michael Rudella, of Kylerstown, to four counts each of illegally killing or possessing deer and one count each of illegally killing or possessing a wild turkey. Judge Rudella sentenced each to pay fines of $1,300 ($300 for each deer and $100 for the turkey).

Smith and Myers also face having their hunting and furtaking privileges revoked.

According to Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officer David Stewart, of Clearfield County, on Oct. 21, he and Deputy WCO Terry Sheetz witnessed Myers exit his camp and move across a field in Girard Towship. Myers was not wearing any orange, but was carrying a rifle.

“We saw Myers enter an adjacent field and, minutes later, two shots rang out in rapid succession,” WCO Stewart said. “Deputy WCO Sheetz and I made our way toward the location of the gunshots and, from inside the treeline, observed Myers and Smith go into the camp to retrieve a flashlight, and then proceed back into the field to where two deer were laying.”

“As the two defendants began dragging the untagged deer back to the camp, Deputy WCO Sheetz and I stopped them.”

During the investigation, the defendants produced two additional skinned and partially butchered deer that were in a refrigerator at camp, along with parts of a freshly-killed wild turkey. The defendants admitted that they had killed these two deer and turkey the previous day, Oct. 20. Turkey season was closed on Oct. 20. Also, Oct. 20 and 21 were part of the overlap for archery and muzzleloader deer seasons, during which the use of a rifle is not permitted.

Facts from the Pennsylvania Game Commission: On March 18, the House Game and Fisheries Committee will hold a public hearing on House Bill 97, which would increase penalties for a variety of poaching-related offenses. HB 97 is sponsored by Rep. Ed Staback (D-60), who chairs the House Game and Fisheries Committee.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

Pennsylvania - -(AmmoLand.com)- An investigation that began by looking into a concerned citizen’s complaint about illegal baiting resulted in three Massachusetts residents being charged for two illegally killed antlerless deer in Elk County, according to Pennsylvania Game Commission officials.

Elk County WCO Doty McDowell, on Oct. 7, was investigating a baited tree-stand in Jones Township, when he encountered two individuals who were staying at a local camp with others from Massachusetts.

“While it soon became clear that these two had no part in the baiting, neither had identification on them, as required by law, so we proceeded back to camp so they could obtain their identification,” WCO McDowell said. “On the way back, one of the men offhandedly mentioned a deer that had been killed and was at camp. When I began to ask about the deer, the individual who first mentioned it refused to provide more specific information.”

“Upon arriving at camp, both provided identification and the two claimed they had nothing to do with the deer that had been taken. However, they told me it was in the shed and that it was taken by another in their party.”

At this point, WCO McDowell obtained description of the vehicle that the other individual was in, and contacted neighboring Elk County WCO Dick Bodenhorn and asked him to patrol the area to look for vehicle.

In a short time, WCO Bodenhorn found the vehicle, and escorted its occupants back to the camp. As the vehicle approached the camp, WCO McDowell noticed that the truck drove past the camp and parked in the dark. As the investigation continued, Kaleb Ryan Severance, 25, of Worchester, Massachusetts, admitted he shot an antlerless deer, and then the landowner signed a consent to search the shed.

“Upon searching the shed, we found the head and hide of the deer,” WCO McDowell said. “The individuals then went into camp and removed meat from freezer and surrendered it to us. ”

“Another defendant, Michael Christopher Siemaszko, 24, of Millbury, admitted to illegally possessing an antlerless deer that was in the bed of the truck, which had previously been hidden in the woods.”

Both deer were seized, and WCO Bodenhorn donated them to needy families in the Ridgway area.

On Oct. 15, WCO McDowell filed charged in the office of District Judge Tony King, of Johnsonburg, Elk County, against the three for unlawfully taking or possessing of wildlife: Kaleb Severance was charged for the first deer in shed, Michael Siemaszko was charged for second deer in truck; and Robert Joseph Siemaszko, 51, of Worcester, was charged for transporting Kaleb Severance’s illegally killed deer.

Kaleb Siemaszkos pled guilty on Oct. 22, and Robert Siemaszkos pled guilty on Oct. 23, and both were ordered to pay fines of $300 each, plus court costs. The case against Severance remains open at this time.

Facts from the Pennsylvania Game Commission: Since Pennsylvania is not part of the Wildlife Violator Compact, each of these nonresidents will be able to continue to lawfully hunt in other states. If Pennsylvania were part of the Wildlife Violator Compact, which would take an act of the General Assembly, these convictions would be reported to the other 31 states, as of January, enrolled in the Compact, and they would be prohibited from hunting in those states as well for their poaching activities here.

LINCOLN, Neb. – A record number of antlerless white-tailed deer were harvested in Nebraska last year. That record should be broken again in 2009, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The deer population in the state has never been higher. An expanding white-tailed deer herd, especially in extreme eastern Nebraska, has caused increased complaints of crop damage. As a result, 87,000 deer permits in 2008 had free “bonus” tags that allowed the harvest of an antlerless white-tailed deer. This year, 90,000 of those bonus tags will be available. Big game seasons were set Friday by the Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners.

One of the biggest changes in this year’s deer hunting seasons is the result of a need to harvest even more deer in eastern Nebraska. A new October antlerless season has been created for a portion of eastern Nebraska along the Missouri and lower Platte rivers where too few antlerless whitetails were harvested last year. The Commission hopes this season will add 3,000 antlerless whitetails to the 2009 harvest.

The October antlerless season – Oct. 9-11 – is for hunting only in the Season Choice Areas 18 and 21. Deer may be taken with archery equipment, muzzleloader, rifle or crossbow. Hunters may take two antlerless deer with each permit, and there will be an unlimited number of permits available. Hunter orange is required.

Following is a summary of big game species regulations for 2009:

Deer

It was a record year in many ways for deer hunters in Nebraska in 2008. The following all-time highs were set: harvest (80,467), permits sold (131,392), whitetail antlerless harvest (32,397), whitetail buck harvest (36,235), mule deer buck harvest (9,115); and nonresident permits sold (12,022).

Record harvests of mule deer, whitetails and elk are expected again this fall as more permits are available and herd sizes remain strong in most areas. The harvest of antlerless whitetails may exceed that of whitetail bucks for the first time this fall. The average age of whitetail bucks is expected to increase for the fourth straight year.

Concern about the age of bucks in some central Nebraska hunting units led the Commissioners on Friday to authorize a reduction in either-sex permits in some of those firearm deer units. This is aimed at increasing the average age of mule deer and whitetail bucks.

Also, in an effort to improve the age structure and population of mule deer bucks in three units in south-central and southwest Nebraska, statewide buck permits will not be valid for mule deer bucks south of Interstate 80. This is expected to reduce the harvest of mule deer bucks by about 250.

Other highlights of the 2009 deer hunting regulations are:

– The number of either-sex deer hunting permits decreased by 1,200.

– The number of season choice antlerless deer hunting permits increased by 1,800.

– The number of bonus tags for antlerless white-tailed deer hunting permits increased by 3,300.

Antelope

Permit quotas were increased, giving rifle hunters more opportunity to draw a permit. The age structure of bucks continues to improve, with 91 percent of harvested bucks in 2008 age 2 years or older, therefore buck quality and hunter success should continue to improve.

Other highlights of the 2009 antelope regulations are:

– There are 510 firearm and muzzleloader antelope hunting permits authorized, an increase of 65 from 2008.

– A new Eastern Sandhills antelope hunting unit was created.

Elk

Nebraska’s elk population is growing, expected to reach 2,000 following calving season. Hunters will have more opportunities than ever to harvest a trophy bull. Last year, 91 percent of harvested bulls had at least six points on one antler, and the average beam length of those antlers was 47 inches.

Other highlights of the 2009 elk regulations are:

– The Ash Creek, Hat Creek, Bordeaux Creek and North Platte River elk hunting units were expanded.

– There are 85 bull and 147 antlerless elk hunting permits authorized, an increase of 12 bull and six antlerless permits

About:
The mission of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is stewardship of the state’s fish, wildlife, park, and outdoor recreation resources in the best long-term interests of the people and those resources.