The Canada lynx, a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act, is a secretive forest-dwelling cat of northern latitudes and high mountains. Credit: USFWS

Contacts
USFWS, Meagan Racey, 413-253-8558/413-658-4386
MDIFW, Walter Jakubas, 207-941-4471

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- MAINE – The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife has applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a permit to authorize incidental take of Canada lynx resulting from the state-regulated trapping program.

In November, the Service released MDIFW’s draft incidental take plan, a requirement for the permit, and the Service’s draft environmental assessment for MDIFW’s application. The agencies are accepting comments on the documents through February 7, 2012.

The Canada lynx, a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act, is a secretive forest-dwelling cat of northern latitudes and high mountains. Credit: USFWS Karner blue butterfly

The agencies invite the public to attend three informal sessions to learn about the permit process, exchange information on techniques to avoid incidental trapping of lynx, and provide feedback on the draft plan and assessment.

WHEN:

• December 13 at University of Maine at Presque Isle, 181 Maine Street, Presque Isle, 04769 (Grand Ballroom—Allagash and Aroostook rooms); 207-768-9502
• December 14 at Black Bear Inn, 4 Godfrey Drive, Orono, 04473; 207-866-7120
• December 15 at University of Southern Maine in Gorham, 37 College Avenue, Gorham, 04038 (Bailey Hall); 207-780-5961

SCHEDULE:

• 6 p.m. Doors open.
• 6:30 p.m. Overview presentation of the permit process.
• 6:45 p.m. Open house session begins. Experts from both agencies will staff booths on various related topics.
• 7:30 p.m. Agencies will begin a panel discussion.

After the panel discussion, attendees are encouraged to return to booths for further discussion with agency experts. The open house should wrap up by 9 p.m.

Both the Service and MDIFW want the public to understand the documents and process. The sessions are meant to help further understanding of these issues and to encourage and enable the public to evaluate and provide written comments on the application and related documents. The agencies reviewed many alternatives to avoid incidental take of Canada lynx, but both the Service and MDIFW believe expertise among interested parties could provide important additional information and options.

Comments can also be sent to hcpmainetrapping@fws.gov or to the Service’s Maine Field Office at 17 Godfrey Drive, Suite 2, Orono, Maine 04473. Comments sent through U.S. mail should be postmarked no later than February 7, 2012, to be considered.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Columbus, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has formally announced that it is considering issuing an incidental take permit to Maine’s Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

This allows for the accidental take of a small number of Canada lynx in traps set by sportsmen for other legal species.

This is the latest step in a long battle against anti-trapping groups who have attempted to use the Canada lynx’s status as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to ban trapping in the state.

In 2006 and 2008, anti-trapping groups sued the state seeking to stop Maine’s trapping season by claiming that the protected Canada lynx might accidentally be caught by a trapper while attempting to trap other legal species.

The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF), along with the Maine Trappers’ Association, Fur Takers of America, National Trappers’ Association, and several individual sportsmen, intervened in the cases, ultimately winning a landmark victory for trapping in the state. At the same time, this sets a legal precedent nationally that makes it harder for antis to use the ESA to try and ban hunting, fishing, or trapping.

An incidental take permit issued by the USFWS would help shield the state from similar lawsuits seeking to shut down trapping. The permit would allow the state, and licensed trappers, to accidentally trap a small number of Canada lynx, when trapping for other legal species, without being in violation of the ESA. Essentially, the permit would recognize that a few accidentally caught Canada lynx do not threaten the species’ ability to survive and recover.

Without the permit, anytime a Canada lynx is accidentally caught in a trap, it is a violation of the ESA by the trapper, even if the animal is released unharmed. To be clear, the permit does not allow for the intentional trapping of Canada lynx but would act to protect the state and trappers who might accidentally trap one while trapping for other legal species. The permit would also include a cap on the total number of lynx that could be accidentally trapped.

The USFWS will seek and review public comments before making a final decision on the incidental take permit. It can then choose to approve the permit as written, deny the permit, or approve the permit with additional restrictions on trapping within the state.

“Maine has already enacted strict rules and reporting requirements for trappers in the state to help ensure that Canada lynx are not accidentally caught in traps,” said Jeremy Rine, USSAF associate director of state services. “

We hope that the Fish and Wildlife Service will grant Maine’s request for the incidental take permit without any new, unnecessary restrictions on trappers.”

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. Visit www.ussportsmen.org.

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine --(Ammoland.com)- This spring, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is strongly encouraging homeowners to take food source and food-odor prevention steps around their properties as ways to deter bears that could become a nuisance or danger.

Bears have recently emerged from their dens throughout Maine and are in search of food that is not readily available to them at this time of year. They are drawn to bird feeders, garbage cans, dumpsters and grills – where food or the odor of food is prevalent – or to areas where people believe it’s OK to leave food for them.

“It is important to remember that food odors attract bears to your back yard,” according to MDIF&W Wildlife Biologist Jennifer Vashon. “For example, bird feeders are one of the main reasons we receive bear nuisance calls, and also, garbage that is brought to the curb the night before pickup or is stored outside is a great temptation to a bear. We encourage everyone, especially this time of year, to bring in bird feeders and keep their garbage inside until the morning of trash pickup.”

An incident two years ago in Livermore Falls involved a mother bear who had become dependent on people for food and taught her two cubs the bad habit of foraging for food in peoples’ backyards; they became a nuisance to fearful neighbors. In another case, a bear became adept at getting into dumpsters and actually slept during the day in a treetop in the neighborhood. These could become dangerous situations and result in the bear being destroyed.

Bears who become reliant on people for food return to the same locations to eat.

“The worst case scenario is that a bear will hurt someone,” according to Vashon. “It’s happened elsewhere and it could happen here. In this unfortunate circumstance, we’d have to destroy the bear.”

Spring is when the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Maine Warden Service receives hundreds of nuisance animal complaints, and bears near homes and in neighborhoods are among the calls.

To minimize exposure to nuisance bears, we suggest the following:

• Bring in your bird feeders at night and rake up the seed that has fallen underneath the bird feeder.
• Store garbage and garbage cans in the garage or basement until trash day, and put out the cans the mornings of pickup.
• Nothing with a strong food odor should be composted in the back yard.
• For grills, burn off as much of the meat and grease as possible and then brush or scrape grills clean. Grills should be stored in a closed garage or shed.
• Use dumpsters with heavy metal lids that latch shut. Keep the lids and self-closing doors shut. If garbage is overflowing, contact the trash hauler to pick it up.
• If you have pets and feed them outdoors, bring their food dishes inside at night.
• Store all livestock feeds in a secure location.
• Encourage your neighbors to take the same steps that you are to deter bears.
• When camping, put food and other items with an odor, including candy, toothpaste, suntan lotion and soap, in sealed containers. If camping near your vehicle, keep the sealed containers in it. Never store food or candy in your tent or sleeping quarters. If food or other odorous items cannot be stored, place them in a “bear bag” that is at least 12 feet above the ground and 10 feet from the nearest tree trunk. After meals, store all leftovers and immediately wash dishes. Dump the dishwater away from the camp or use a sump hole to filter the water, and then burn the food scraps. Carefully burn all leftover food, wrappers and grease. Don’t bury them or throw them in a latrine.
• If a bear shows up in your backyard, stay calm. Shout at it like you would to chase an unwanted dog. Most bears are timid enough to be scared away by yelling, waving or banging pots. Check first before going outside. Black bears blend into night skies, thus providing the chance of an encounter. Use outside lights to full advantage and look outside from a safe position, such as a porch or window.
• Never approach a bear.

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine --(Ammoland.com)- The arrival of spring means deer are on the move along roadways. MaineDOT and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife are urging drivers to heed posted warning signs and slow down, particularly in areas where historically a high number of deer-vehicle collisions have occurred.

As snow slowly disappears this spring, areas along the sides of roads are generally one of the first areas to green up with vegetation. Deer, who have been feeding on poor quality food throughout much of the winter, flock to roadsides where they can feast on tender, green plants. As deer disperse from areas where they have wintered, motorists will often see deer feeding along the sides of roads. Often these areas are along the sides of major highways or high speed routes.

Drivers Urged to Heed New Roadside Warning Signs and Watch Out for Deer

Recognizing the need to protect both motorists and deer, MaineDOT and MDIF&W have identified several seasonal areas where there are a high number of deer crashes and have installed unique signs that alert motorists to deer during this peak season. These signs are generally specific to a 1-mile or less stretch of road with very high collision rates. It is extremely important that motorists watch for these signs and slow down.

“It’s a scenario we don’t like to see happen – a car hitting a deer, injuring the driver and the animal,” said MDOT Commissioner David Bernhardt. “Unfortunately, it does happen too often. Please, heed the roadside warning signs and be alert for deer that may want to cross in your path. Save your life, and that of the deer.”

These “Caution — High Hit Area” signs feature a silhouette of a deer, and are a bright, reflective orange and yellow. These signs are foldable signs, and they are only opened and displayed during this time of year, when deer collisions are frequent. As deer disperse away from the roads, these signs will be folded up by MDIF&W personnel so drivers do not become accustomed to them. Next year, they will be unfolded as deer start to move.

These signs were recently installed at a high deer crash area along I-95 in Sherman. That particular stretch of highway is located alongside a deer wintering area, and crosses a traditional travel corridor used heavily by deer.

“As we work to reduce mortality factors on deer and rebuild Maine’s deer population, alerting motorists to these high-hit areas is critical,” said MDIF&W Commissioner Chandler Woodcock. “By slowing down and using extra caution in these limited-but-distinct sites, drivers have an opportunity to save a deer.”

Over the past two years, these orange-and-yellow signs have been installed at the following locations where there has been a history of deer/vehicle crashes during this time of year: Route 9-Amherst, Route 9-Wesley, Route 193-Cherryfield, Route 191- Jacksonville, Route 1-Edmunds, Route 1 in East Machias, Route 2-Oakfield, Route 212-Smyrna Mills and Route 1-Monticello.

Motorists who see these new signs should be aware that deer are likely in the area, and should drive accordingly. Remember, these signs are only erected during high risk periods for a specific section of road.

Over the past 10 years, Maine has averaged over 3,000 deer-vehicle crashes each year. Drivers should take care this time of year, and be on the lookout for all wildlife on the sides of the road. Motorists should reduce their speed when it is dark, use high beams where appropriate, and always wear their seatbelt.

State of Maine

AUGUSTA, MAINE --(Ammoland.com)- State Rep. Dale Crafts says his bill to modify the law regarding concealed carry weapons is a safety enhancement for law abiding citizens and would make concealed carry permits more affordable.

The bill by Rep. Crafts (R-Lisbon), LD 658, is titled “An Act to Modify the Requirement of a Permit to Carry a Concealed Weapon.” It is modeled on laws currently in effect in Arizona and Alaska. In essence, it would allow a person to carry a concealed weapon without a permit except in certain places, which are detailed in the legislation.

“In my view, an armed society is a safer society,” said Rep. Crafts, a second-term legislator. “The requirement to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon could be considered a violation of the 2nd Amendment, which states that the right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. The Founding Fathers thought that right was so basic that it comes at the top of the Bill of Rights, just after the right to freedom of speech and freedom of religion.

“American citizens have a right to protect themselves,” he added, “whether they are in their own homes or in a public venue. This bill would enhance the right to self-protection for law-abiding folks, with reasonable restraints.”

Rep. Crafts said his bill also would make concealed carry permits less expensive – $10 for an original application instead of the current $35 fee – and would extend the length of permits from four years to seven years.

Under LD 658, all restrictions that apply to concealed carry permits would apply to the proposed law, and persons carrying a concealed weapon without a permit would be subject to additional restrictions. Such persons, for example, could not enter a polling place on the day of an election, the grounds or buildings of a school or a nuclear power plant or hydroelectric facility.

Moreover, the prohibition against carrying without a permit would extend to “a structure, vehicle or craft owned, leased or operated by the state or a political subdivision of the state after a reasonable request by the operator or sponsor…to remove the dangerous or deadly weapon and place it in the custody of the operator or sponsor for temporary and secure storage.”

Rep. Crafts said his bill has been attacked in press accounts based on false and misleading statements. In one article, a critic said the bill would make guns “very, very available to young people – to children – who are just playing with them.”

Rep. Crafts said critics need to remember that citizens are currently allowed to carry weapons that are not concealed. “I don’t see this leading to an explosion in the number of guns,” he said. “Right now you can walk down main street wearing a holster with a revolver just like you could in the old West. The only difference with my bill is that you could conceal that same weapon.”

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- Following a six-month investigation by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, five residents of Maine – four adults and a 17-year-old juvenile – were charged with more than 250 counts of violating the Game and Wildlife Code and the Crimes Code in the one of the largest wildlife crime sprees ever detected in the Commonwealth’s history.

The group is charged with multiple counts of killing deer at night with a light, killing deer in closed season and killing deer in excess of season bag limits in Armenia Township and surrounding municipalities, Bradford County. During the months of October and December, the group is accused of killing dozens of deer unlawfully, including three large-racked bucks, during the state’s early muzzleloader season and regular firearms deer seasons. The group also has been charged with numerous wildlife crimes in Maine.

“This investigation is a prime example of why it was so critically important for the General Assembly to have enacted legislation to increase the fines and penalties for chronic poachers last year,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “The increased fines and penalties addressed the exact type of violations allegedly committed by these individuals, which involved killing multiple deer out of season, at night with spotlights and significantly over the bag limits.”

In late 2010, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Bureau of Warden Service contacted the Game Commission with information that Everett Tyler Leonard and E.H. “Lenny” Leonard were suspected of killing a large number of deer over the legal limit in both Pennsylvania and Maine.

A joint investigation between the Game Commission and the Maine Warden Service was initiated and continued throughout the deer hunting seasons in both states. Game Commission Special Operations Division investigators conducted surveillance on the group’s illegal hunting activities in Pennsylvania during the white-tailed deer hunting seasons.

“Good interagency communication and teamwork was what made the investigation a success,” said Dan Scott, Captain of the Maine Warden Service. “It’s been our experience that fish and wildlife violators know no jurisdictional boundaries, and this investigation once again proved that to be true. These individuals showed complete disregard for the wildlife laws of both Maine and Pennsylvania. By doing so, they were stealing opportunity and natural resources from the citizens of both states.”

In January, a team of Game Commission investigators traveled to Maine to accompany Maine Warden Service investigators on the execution of five search warrants as a result of the investigation. During the execution of these warrants, investigators seized hundreds of pounds of deer meat, firearms, deer antlers, bows and arrows, spotlights, a mounted hawk and owls, a computer, documents and other hunting-related equipment.

The four adults charged in Pennsylvania were: Everett Tyler Leonard, 31, Everett H. (Lenny) Leonard, 59, and Carlton John Enos, 19, all of Turner; and Lucien H. Clavet, 44, of Monmouth. The 17-year-old juvenile, from Greene, will be charged with multiple summary violations involving the unlawful killing and attempting to kill deer both out of season and at night with a spotlight, using a motor vehicle to hunt and possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle.

Pennsylvania Game Commission Special Operations Division Chief Thomas P. Grohol and Bradford County Wildlife Conservation Officer Vernon I. Perry III filed Pennsylvania’s charges against the group before Magisterial District Judge Jonathan Wilcox of Troy, Bradford County on Feb. 23.

The law to increase fines and penalties for poaching was made possible by House Bill 1859, which was sponsored by House Game and Fisheries Committee Democrat Chairman Edward G. Staback. The bill was approved by the House on July 21, 2009, by a vote of 196-3. The Senate, after making minor adjustments to the bill, approved the measure unanimously on July 3, 2010, followed by a 189-6 concurrence vote in the House also on July 3. The bill was signed into law on July 9, making it Act 54 of 2010.

Among the 250 charges filed against the adult defendants are the following:

Defendant 1: Everett T. (Tyler) Leonard, 31 of Turner, Maine:

Total charges: 117

Highlights of Title 34 Game and Wildlife Code Charges:

• 22 Felony 3 counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game(white-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $15,000 and up to 36 months imprisonment per count.
• 4 Misdemeanor of the first degree counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $10,000 and up to 18 months imprisonment per count.
• 4 Misdemeanor counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $3,000 and up to 6 months imprisonment per count.
• 2 Misdemeanor Counts of Section 2312 Buying and Selling Game(White-tailed deer).

Possible penalties: Up to $3,000 and up to 6 months imprisonment per count.

• 9 Summary 2nd degree counts of Section 2307 Unlawful taking or possession of game or wildlife (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: $400 to $800 and up to one month imprisonment per count.
• 7 Summary 5th degree counts of Section 2310 Unlawful use of lights while hunting (spotlighting while in possession of a firearm or bow and arrow). Possible Penalty: $100 to $200 per count.

In addition to Game and Wildlife Code Violations, the defendant also was charged with:

• 4 Misdemeanor counts of The Controlled Substance, drug, device and cosmetic Act, Section 780-113 Prohibited Acts. Possible Penalties: Up to $5,000 in fines and up to three years imprisonment per count.
• 1 Misdemeanor 3 count of Pa. Crimes Code Section 4906, False reports to law enforcement authorities. Possible penalty: Up to $2,500 in fines and up to one year imprisonment.

Defendant 2: Everett H. (Lenny) Leonard, 59, of Turner, Maine:

Total charges: 52

Highlights of Title 34 Game and Wildlife Code Charges:

• 14 Felony 3 counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $15,000 and up to 36 months imprisonment per count.
• 2 Misdemeanor of the first degree counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $10,000 and up to 18 months imprisonment per count.
• 4 Misdemeanor counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $3,000 and up to 6 months imprisonment per count.
• 2 Summary 2nd degree counts of Section 2307 Unlawful taking or possession of game or wildlife (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: $400 to $800 and up to one month imprisonment per count.

In addition to Game and Wildlife Code Violations, the defendant also was charged with:

• 2 Misdemeanor counts of The Controlled Substance, drug, device and cosmetic Act, Section 780-113 Prohibited Acts. Possible Penalties: Up to $5,000 in fines and up to three years imprisonment per count.
• 1 Misdemeanor 3 count of Pa. Crimes Code Section 4906, False reports to law enforcement authorities. Possible penalty: Up to $2,500 in fines and up to one year imprisonment.

Defendant 3: Carlton John Enos, 19, of Turner, Maine:

Total Charges: 59

Highlights of Title 34 Game and Wildlife Code:

• 11 Felony 3 counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $15,000 and up to 36 months imprisonment per count.
• 4 Misdemeanor of the first degree counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $10,000 and up to 18 months imprisonment per count.
• 4 Misdemeanor counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $3,000 and up to 6 months imprisonment per count.
• 4 Summary 2nd degree counts of Section 2307 Unlawful taking or possession of game or wildlife (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: $400 to $800 and up to one month imprisonment per count.
• 8 Summary 5th degree counts of Section 2310 Unlawful use of lights while hunting (spotlighting while in possession of a firearm or bow and arrow). Possible Penalty: $100 to $200 per count.

In addition to Game and Wildlife Code Violations, the defendant also was charged with:

• 1 Misdemeanor 3 count of Pa. Crimes Code Section 4906, False reports to law enforcement authorities. Possible penalty: Up to $2,500 in fines and up to one year imprisonment.

Defendant 4: Lucien H. Clavet, 44, of Monmouth, Maine:

Total charges: 22

Highlights of Title 34 Game and Wildlife Code:

• 5 Felony 3 counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $15,000 and up to 36 months imprisonment per count.
• 2 Misdemeanor of the first degree counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $10,000 and up to 18 months imprisonment per count.
• 2 Misdemeanor counts of Section 2321 Unlawful killing or taking of big game (White-tailed deer). Possible Penalty: Up to $3,000 and up to 6 months imprisonment per count.

Outdoors Magazine

Vermont --(Ammoland.com)- Master Maine Guide and deer hunting legend Randy Flannery will be making a rare public appearance in the Adirondacks on March 27, 2011, and will be conducting a seminar on advanced deer hunting strategies, specifically targeting tandem hunting techniques.

Flannery is a regular columnist with Outdoors Magazine and is considered a pioneer in tracking and stalking techniques.

His strategies and methods have been featured several times in other magazines like Field & Stream and Deer & Deer Hunting.

Doors open for the seminar at 11:00 a.m. and lunch will be served shortly after. It is expected the event will run late into the afternoon with several pertinent topics being covered. Tickets are limited.

Flannery’s presentations are a must for “real hunters.”

Learn From a Deer Hunting Legend - Randy Flannery

They encompass a variety of strategies that have been proven successful across the East. If you know the challenge of killing a buck on public land, and the thrill of hunting the deep woods, you will not want to miss it.

The seminar will be held at the Lakeview Restaurant in Averill Park, N.Y. on Sunday, March 27. The cost is $50 per person or $25 for youth hunters under the age of 18. Lunch is included.

For more information contact Glenn Galkiewicz at (518) 477-5100 or on his cell at (518) 429-0463. Or email glenster1231@yahoo.com

About:
Each month Outdoors Magazine shines its spotlight on different areas of the outdoors world. Features and sub-features are multiple page spreads written by select experts in their fields. In addition to features and sub-features, each month Outdoors Magazine has over 40 columns written by real guides, industry experts, and the best in their fields. Our staff are die-hards who take the time out of their lives hunting and fishing to write. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, and expanded article descriptions, visit www.outdoorsmagazine.net.

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine –-(Ammoland.com)- It’s time to enter the 2011 Maine Moose Permit Lottery!

Applications for this year’s lottery now are available online through the department’s website, www.mefishwildlife.com.

Completing the application online is a convenience that thousands of hunters are using because the form’s easy to fill out and they receive instant confirmation that they’ve been entered into the lottery.

The deadline for online applications is 11:59 p.m. on May 13, 2011.

Maine Moose Hunting

MDIF&W no longer prints or mails paper applications for the moose lottery. If an interested hunter is unable to apply using the online licensing system, the Department suggests:

• Picking up a February issue of The Maine Sportsman or Northwoods Sporting Journal. The paper application is printed on Page 2 in The Maine Sportsman and on the back cover of Northwoods Sporting Journal.
• Printing out a paper application from MDIF&W’s website at www.mefishwildlife.com, fill it out, and mail it with your payment to the Department;
• Coming to MDIF&W’s main office to fill out a paper application. The address is 284 State Street in Augusta;
• Sending a stamped self-addressed envelope to MDIF&W at the address below. Department personnel will mail a paper application that can be filled out and mailed with your payment to MDIF&W. The address is:

Moose Permit Application Request

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
41 SHS, 284 State St
Augusta, ME 04333-0041

Paper applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered to MDIF&W in Augusta by 5 p.m. on April 1, 2011. The April 1 deadline for paper applications provides adequate time for department employees to process the paperwork before the lottery.

This year, 3,205 permits will be allocated in the state’s 28 Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs). This is an increase of 65 permits from 2010, primarily in WMDs 22 and 25.

Season dates are:

• September 26-October 1: WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 19
• October 10-15: WMDs 1-14, 17, 18, 19, 27, 28
• Nov. 7-12: WMDs 2, 3, 6, 11
• Oct. 31-Nov. 26: WMDs 15, 16, 22, 23, 25, 26

A “Maine Residents Only Day” is set for October 29, in WMDs 15, 16, 22, 23, 25, 26. Maine hunters need a lottery-drawn permit to hunt these districts on that day.

The 2011 Maine Moose Permit Lottery will be held in mid-June at Cabela’s in Scarborough. The date and time will be announced closer to the event.

For complete 2011 Moose Permit Lottery rules, please visit www.mefishwildlife.com. Please call (207) 287-8000 if you have any questions.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Columbus, OH --(Ammoland.com)- For years you’ve probably been seeing our press releases talking about the ongoing court battles over the Canada lynx and trapping in both Maine and Minnesota.

Hopefully, you’ve read our latest release highlighting the victory on the recent appeal in Maine.

In the most recent case, the Animal Welfare Institute and the Wildlife Alliance of Maine filed a lawsuit against the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife requesting an injunction to permanently shut down trapping in the state. They claimed that Maine’s trapping regulations allowed for Canada lynx, a species listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), to be incidentally caught in traps.

Ultimately, the Court ruled that even if lynx were incidentally caught in traps the antis had to show that accidentally catching a single lynx “irreparably harmed” the lynx population as a whole. In the end, they couldn’t do this. Sportsmen won the case and the subsequent appeal.

If you aren’t a trapper in Maine or in Minnesota there is a good chance that you’ve wondered what the Canada lynx (and the above case) has to do with you. Why does a lawsuit concerning lynx in Maine matter to a hunter in Kansas or a fisherman in Florida?

The answer can be boiled down to two words, legal precedent.

Legal precedents are set when courts interpret what the law says, in this case the ESA. These interpretations are examples for other courts across the country to follow. On the surface, the lynx cases were a simple attack on trapping in Maine and Minnesota. However, had the antis won; the legal precedent set by these cases would have set the stage for much, much more than just a ban on trapping in those states. Anti-hunting groups across the nation could have used the case as basis in other courts to attack hunting, fishing, and trapping.

There are all kinds of ridiculous lawsuits that anti-hunting groups could dream up if they had set a favorable precedent in the lynx cases.

Perhaps they’d set their sights on pheasant hunters in Kansas claiming they are “harassing” an endangered species by simply walking through fields that the species might occupy (harassing an endangered species is prohibited under the ESA). Maybe they’d seek a fishing ban in Florida because fishermen could accidentally catch a fish listed as threatened under the ESA.

The sheer amount of time and money that these groups have spent in court highlights just how important of a precedent the lynx cases could have set for them and how dangerous it could have been for sportsmen. They’re willing to spend years in court and countless dollars on legal fees because they know that if they get that one precedent-setting win it will make it that much easier for them to chip away at hunting, fishing, and trapping in other states.

Fortunately, sportsmen have won the first few rounds in the Lynx battles. Even so, sportsmen can’t turn a blind eye to what is happening in other states because, in the end, something that seems too far away to matter, like the Canada lynx in Maine, could end up playing a pivotal role in whether or not you get to hunt, fish, and trap in your own backyard tomorrow.

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. Visit www.ussportsmen.org.

The take of lynx occurring in Maine foothold traps, typically un-injured catch-and-release incidents, did not constitute irreparable harm.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Columbus, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Trappers in Maine and sportsmen nationwide scored a huge victory after a Federal Court of Appeals rejected an effort from anti-hunting groups seeking to use the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to stop trapping in the state.

This decision reaffirms a lower court decision that set a precedent against manipulation of the ESA to stop hunting, fishing, and trapping.

“We are ecstatic and relieved that this lawsuit is no longer a threat to our lifestyle as we prepare to open the 2010 trapping season,” said Skip Trask of the Maine Trappers Association.

“The Maine Trappers Association couldn’t be happier with this decision. It is much more than just a victory for Maine. This decision will help protect all trapping and other sports from coast to coast. We appreciate the support and guidance of the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF) legal team and all of our partners.”

The anti-hunting groups had originally filed the suit in 2008 against the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. They had argued that Maine’s trapping regulations provided insufficient protection for the Canada lynx, a species listed as threatened under the ESA, and thus required the season to be stopped.

The USSAF, along with the Maine Trappers’ Association, Fur Takers of America, National Trappers’ Association, and several individual sportsmen, intervened in the case on behalf of the state. The groups argued that those seeking to shut down an entire season of trapping (or hunting or fishing) must not only prove the incidental take of an ESA-protected species, but also “irreparable harm” to the population.

In the initial lower court decision, Judge Woodcock concluded that the take of individual members of a reasonably numerous protected species does not necessarily meet the requirement of irreparable harm. He also indicated that the take of lynx occurring in Maine foothold traps, typically catch-and-release incidents, did not constitute irreparable harm in this case. Consequently, Judge Woodcock declined the injunction and the trapping season was able to take place.

Unhappy with the result, the anti-hunting groups filed an appeal in December, 2009 seeking to reverse Judge Woodcock’s decision. The USSAF and the others immediately filed legal briefs in order to defend the major legal victory.

In the unanimous opinion rejecting the appeal, Chief Judge Lynch affirmed Judge Woodcock’s findings that the plaintiffs’ failed to demonstrate the irreparable harm necessary for an injunction. Judge Lynch then went on to criticize the plaintiffs’ last-minute request for lesser sanctions restricting trapping. In the lower court, Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) expressly refused that option and instead pursued a full ban on trapping.

“It may well have done so for tactical reasons, preferring to stress the inadequacy of other remedies in order to strengthen its case for injunctive relief against foothold traps,” wrote Lynch. “Parties are held to their choices and AWI’s bait and switch tactics in the courts are to be deplored, not rewarded.”

The latest decision should assist in the defense of any further lawsuits by anti-trappers. It leaves the plaintiffs in this case with few options other than a petition to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case. The Supreme Court agrees to consider only a few dozen cases a year out of the many hundreds of cases filed with it each year.

“It was clear all along that anti-hunters were looking to set a precedent that could be used in state after state to shut down not only trapping, but hunting and fishing as well,” said Bud Pidgeon, USSAF president and CEO. “With this strong decision, antis are going to have a far more difficult time doing this.”

About the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing, trapping, and shooting – that generate the money to pay for them. The Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible.

About the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. For more information about the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance and its work, call (614) 888-4868 or visit its website, www.ussportsmen.org.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Columbus, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF) completed oral arguments during a legal hearing in the U.S. Court of Appeals on behalf of Maine trappers.

The long-standing case prompting the hearing will have a far reaching impact by establishing whether anti-hunting groups seeking to manipulate the Endangered Species Act (ESA) will be able to block hunting and trapping seasons across the nation.

“This is the latest in a long line of steps taken by the USSAF and our partners to protect not only trappers in Maine, but sportsmen nationwide,” said Rob Sexton, USSAF vice president for government affairs while referring to the oral arguments made on September 8.

“If the anti-hunters win, they will use this example in court room after court room across the nation to deny trapping and hunting everywhere.”

In November of 2009, Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. of Maine’s Federal District Court denied the injunction sought by Animal Welfare Institute and the Wildlife Alliance of Maine to stop the state’s trapping season. The groups had originally filed suit against the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in 2008, arguing that that Maine’s trapping regulations provided insufficient protection for the Canada lynx, a species listed as threatened under the ESA, and thus required the season to be stopped.

The USSAF, along with the Maine Trappers’ Association, Fur Takers of America, National Trappers’ Association, and several individual sportsmen, argued that the antis must show that Maine’s trapping practices were a threat to the Canada lynx population.

The opinion of Judge Woodcock closely followed the arguments made by the USSAF and others by requiring that plaintiffs looking for an injunction to shut down a trapping (or hunting or fishing) season prove not only the incidental take of ESA-protected species, but also “irreparable harm” to the lynx population. Judge Woodcock concluded that the take of individual members of a reasonably numerous protected species does not necessarily meet the requirement of irreparable harm. He also indicated that the take of lynx occurring in Maine foothold traps, typically catch-and-release incidents, did not constitute irreparable harm in this case. Consequently, Judge Woodcock declined the injunction and the trapping season was able to take place.

This decision would make it difficult for antis to shut down hunting and trapping in other states based upon the incidental take of a single animal that falls under ESA protection. The precedent is so important that the antis filed an appeal in December, 2009 seeking to reverse the decision. This prompted the USSAF and others to file a new set of legal briefs in order to defend the hard fought victory.

According to Sexton, “We continue to feel confident in our case and will keep pressing ahead to be sure the ESA is not hijacked by those that want to shut down practically all sportsmen activities.”

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. Visit www.ussportsmen.org.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Maine --(Ammoland.com)- On March 29, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund (SLDF) led a legal brief with a Federal District Court of Appeals as part of its ongoing defense of both trapping in Maine and a major legal precedent protecting sportsmen nationwide.

The brief is the latest action taken by the SLDF to defend sportsmen from anti-hunting groups that seek to manipulate the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in order to block hunting and trapping seasons across the nation.

The latest case was originally filed in 2008 by the Animal Welfare Institute and the Wildlife Alliance of Maine against the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The antis argued that Maine’s trapping regulations provided insufficient protection for the Canada lynx, a species listed as threatened under the ESA, and thus required the season to be stopped.

The USSAF, along with the Maine Trappers’ Association, Fur Takers of America, National Trappers’ Association, and several individual sportsmen, argued that the antis must show that Maine’s trapping practices were a threat to the entire Canada lynx population.

In November of 2009, Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. of Maine’s Federal District Court denied the injunction sought by the antis to stop the state’s trapping season. The opinion of Judge Woodcock closely followed the arguments made by the USSAF and others by requiring that plaintiffs looking to shut down a trapping (or hunting or fishing) season prove not only the incidental take of ESA-protected species, but also “irreparable harm” to the entire population. Judge Woodcock concluded that take of individual members of a reasonably numerous protected species does not meet the requirement of irreparable harm in this case.

This decision would make it difficult for antis to shut down hunting and trapping in other states based upon the incidental take of a single animal that falls under ESA protection. The precedent is so important that the antis filed an appeal in December, 2009 seeking to reverse the decision. This prompted the USSAF and others to file a new set of legal briefs in order to defend the hard fought victory.

“The importance of our courtroom win last year can’t be overstated…it makes it much harder for anti-hunting groups to launch a cascade of similar lawsuits from coast to coast to block sportsmen from enjoying their rights,” said Rob Sexton, USSAF vice president for government affairs. “We are confident in our ability to win the appeal and will continue to battle the antis as far as they want to take it.”

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. For more information about the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance and its work, call (614) 888-4868 or visit its website, www.ussportsmen.org.

Maine Fish and Wildlife Digital Magazine

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Maine --(Ammoland.com)- The winter edition of Maine Fish and Wildlife digital magazine now is available online!

Visit www.flipseekllc.com/maine2010winter.html

In it find stories about “How Should We Fund the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries,” a look at the Department’s funding, its impact on Maine’s economy, and ways to improve revenues – plus results of a Critical Insights poll; two controlled hunts to address nuisance moose and deer concerns; and the new Department web site home page and social media sites.

We encourage you to forward this article to your friends – those who love Maine’s outdoors as much as we do!

Thank you.

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

About:
IF&W: We are stewards of Maine’s fish and wildlife, protecting and preserving Maine’s natural resources, quality of place and economic future. Visit: www.maine.gov/ifw/

National Rifle Association

Maine - -(AmmoLand.com)- Friday, February 26, the Joint Standing Committee on Criminal Justice voted 7-5 to reconsider LD1737 with an amendment that would allow permit holders and law enforcement officials to carry concealed firearms in Acadia National Park.

This amended version is a critical step forward in assuring the right of self-defense for the law abiding.

The federal law, which allows the carrying of firearms in National Parks, went into effect earlier this week. Without this important change, LD1737 would nullify federal law within Acadia National Park, by disarming potential crime victims.

The original version also defies Maine’s Constitution which states, “Every citizen has a right to keep and bear arms and this right shall never be questioned.”

Please contact your State Representative and State Senator TODAY and respectfully urge them to oppose any changes to LD1737 which would create victim zones in Maine. Remember to tell them that crime does not stop at the park gate and the right to defend yourself and family shouldn’t either! Contact information can be found by clicking here.

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.

OpenCarry.org

Maine - -(AmmoLand.com)- According to an NRA alert at, certain groups are unfortunately working hard to make a very bad bill slightly better . . . so it can pass and succeed at sharply restricting the right to bear arms in Acadia National Park!

OpenCarry.org urges the Maine legislature to reject the so -called “compromise” LD 1737 which would sell out gun owners by discriminating against everyone but people with concealed firearms permits. Moreover, the sell-out deal would leave even lawful concealed carriers susceptible to federal weapons violation charges if their handgun became accidentally exposed while hiking or changing clothes at a camp site.

The “compromise” result would also be irrational as open carry without permits would still be legal on the streets and sidewalks of every village and city in Maine, from Roque Bluffs to Augusta, and in White Mountain National Forest and the vast majority of other states’ National Parks, from Massachusetts to California! See http://tiny.cc/nps50

Accordingly, Opencarry.org is urging gun owners to demand that their legislators reject this sell-out effort.

Congress finally did the right thing and ordered National Park bureaucrats to respect state gun carry rights, a proven rule long followed in all National Forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. Maine’s legislature should now stand tall and reject the sellout compromise version of LT 1737.

About:
OpenCarry.org was founded in 2004 by Virginia gun-rights activists John Pierce and Mike Stollenwerk and has served to ignite the “Open Carry Movement” that is sweeping the country. In addition to being an invaluable legal resource for gun owners, the site has quickly grown to be a social networking portal for thousands of American gun owners. Visit: www.OpenCarry.org

After all, it’s not like there’s a National Park exception to Article I, Section 16 of Maine’s constitution which declares:

“Every citizen has a right to keep and bear arms and this right shall never be questioned.”

OpenCarry.org

Maine - -(AmmoLand.com)- OpenCarry.org urges the Maine legislature to reject LD 1737, a misguided effort to ban the same citizen gun carry in National Parks that’s currently legal on the streets and sidewalks of every village and city in Maine, from Roque Bluffs to Augusta.

Ironically, LD 1737 singles out National Parks in Maine for this gun ban, but not White Mountain National Forest where gun carry has been legal under federal and Maine law as far back as anyone can remember.

Why can citizens in Maine be trusted to carry guns in cities, towns, and National Forests – but not National Parks?

Is there something in the water at National Parks that we should know about?

Congress finally did the right thing and ordered those pointy headed National Park bureaucrats to respect state gun carry rights, a proven rule long followed in all National Forests and Bureau of Land Management lands.

Maine’s legislature should now stand tall and reject LT 1737. After all, it’s not like there’s a National Park exception to Article I, Section 16 of Maine’s constitution which declares:

“Every citizen has a right to keep and bear arms and this right shall never be questioned.”

About:
OpenCarry.org was founded in 2004 by Virginia gun-rights activists John Pierce and Mike Stollenwerk and has served to ignite the “Open Carry Movement” that is sweeping the country. In addition to being an invaluable legal resource for gun owners, the site has quickly grown to be a social networking portal for thousands of American gun owners. Visit: www.OpenCarry.org

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine – -(Ammoland.com)- Preliminary deer harvest numbers show a decrease of 14% from the 2008 harvest with an initial tally of 18,045 deer taken by hunters.

“To put this into perspective, we must consider that the 2008 and 2009 winters represent the most severe back-to-back winters since 1971-72,” according to IF&W Deer Biologist Lee Kantar.

Long winters with deep snows have a tremendous impact on the overwinter survival of deer. Both expected regional declines in deer abundance and adverse hunting conditions — two weeks of poor hunting conditions during the firearms season — played a role in the fall 2009 harvest decline.

Decreases in the deer harvest from 2008 also were expected given the 16% decrease in any-deer permits for Maine’s hunters (reducing overall success rates). The reductions in any-deer permits for 2009 were necessary to allow the deer herd to begin to recover.

Relative to adjacent provincial and state jurisdictions, the decline in Maine’s deer harvest was less in comparison to our Canadian neighbors in Quebec and New Brunswick whose deer harvests declined greater than 30% during the same time period, but was greater than the decline in New Hampshire’s deer harvest (decrease of approximately 5%).

For 2009, Department biologists projected a statewide harvest of approximately 19,289 deer. The annual deer harvest projections by department biologists in the late spring result from an analysis of mortality and reproductive rates, harvest trends, and any deer permit allocations to meet Wildlife Management District (WMD) goals and objectives. Thus our initial number for statewide harvest was 6% less than projected.

Over the next few weeks, department biologists will complete a more detailed analysis of the 2009 harvest and will release the final deer harvest number and further details about how the harvest looked by season, WMD, sex and age.

Maine Fish and Wildlife Online!

IF&W:
We are stewards of Maine’s fish and wildlife, protecting and preserving Maine’s natural resources, quality of place and economic future.

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Maine - -(Ammoland.com)- The Maine Wildlife Park in Gray, owned and operated by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, received the “Commitment to Tourism Growth” Award from Gov. John E. Baldacci on Monday evening during the 2010 Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

This award recognizes an outstanding company, organization or person that not only strives to grow its business, but works with others within the industry to grow tourism in Maine through leadership roles in regional and statewide tourism initiatives, facilitation of tourism networks and development, and contributions to the local economy.

The Maine Wildlife Park is managed by IF&W Natural Sciences Educator Lisa Kane, who also schedules or teaches education programs at the park. MWP Superintendant Curtis Johnson handles day-to-day operations, including the care of more than 25 different species of native wildlife. The park has four full-time employees, up to 12 seasonal employees, and more than 100 volunteers.

“Over the last several years, through the tireless efforts of Lisa, Curtis and the entire park staff and volunteers, the Maine Wildlife Park has grown to become the must-go-to destination of residents and visitors who want to see and learn more about the wildlife that lives among us in Maine,” according to Commissioner Roland “Danny” Martin. “I whole-heartedly congratulate Lisa, Curtis and everyone at the park on their receipt of this tremendous honor. Your commitment to Maine’s outdoors is demonstrated by your desire to share and promote it to all through activities at the Maine Wildlife Park. This award is well deserved.”

Despite the rainy weather last summer, the Maine Wildlife Park played host to more than 102,200 visitors, up 9 percent from 2008, and revenues were up 24 percent. According to Kane, the Maine Wildlife Park is self-sufficient, with all personal services and capital expenses covered by its dedicated funding account.

The Maine Wildlife Park works with many Gray businesses to promote the town and the park as a destination. Among the partners in promoting the area are the Maine Office of Tourism, the Maine Tourism Association, the Portland Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Gray-New Gloucester Business Association, and the Gems of Route 26, a consortium of five businesses along the Route 26 corridor from Gray to South Paris.

“We do as much business locally as possible, supporting Gray-area grocery, lumber, automotive, printing, hardware and computer stores, as well as restaurants, contractors and other businesses,” according to Kane.

The Maine Wildlife Park is a 200-acre haven on Route 26 in Gray, just 3.5 miles from Maine Turnpike Exit 63. It is open from mid-April to Veterans’ Day, and visitors are guaranteed to see a moose! For more information, visit www.mainewildlifepark.com. A schedule of educational programs for the upcoming season will be posted soon. Also, become a fan of the Maine Wildlife Park on Facebook by searching Maine Wildlife Park on facebook.com.

During a ceremony on Monday evening, Gov. Baldacci presented awards in five general categories: Commitment to Tourism Growth, Commitment to Innovation and Creativity, Commitment to Customer Service, and Commitment to Employees. The Governor also presented the key award – Governor’s Award for Tourism Excellence.

Maine Fish and Wildlife Online! Just click

DID YOU KNOW: All proceeds from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses stay at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife? Not planning to hunt or fish? Consider buying a license as a way to support our fish and wildlife management efforts. Please go to: http://www.informe.org/moses/ Thank you for your continued support!

Pintail Ducks

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Maine - -(AmmoLand.com)- Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife conducted its annual mid-winter waterfowl survey early in January 2010 and recorded numbers identical to or lower than 10-year-average figures.

The mid-winter waterfowl survey is conducted at the same time each winter in every state in the Atlantic Flyway. MDIFW wildlife biologists Brad Allen and Kelsey Sullivan and U.S. Geological Survey biologist Dan McAuley flew with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service pilot John Bidwell for nearly 40 hours to conduct the low-level survey between January 4 and January 16.

This year, the team counted slightly more than 56,000 ducks and geese, a figure significantly lower than the latest 10-year average count of 69,000.

According to Brad Allen, leader of MDIFW’s bird group, this year’s count likely was low because of the relatively mild, ice-free coastal conditions encountered during the survey. In years when the survey is preceded by cold, harsh weather conditions, waterfowl become concentrated along the coast and are more likely to be counted. In years when the weather is mild, waterfowl are either along the coast or are dispersed in freshwater sites near the coast that remain ice free. These inland areas are not searched by the survey team.

Despite the mild conditions, a relatively good number of black ducks were recorded at 16,388 birds. This figure is nearly identical to the latest 10-year average for this species.

The most disappointing numbers recorded this year were for the sea ducks, according to Allen. Fewer than 1,000 scoters were encountered during the survey. Long-tailed duck numbers also were low at 1,253. Common eider numbers were the lowest ever recorded during mid-winter waterfowl survey flights. The survey team tallied fewer than 15,000 eiders, well below the latest 10-year average of 26,500 for this species.

Other numbers recorded for waterfowl in Maine in early January 2010 were as follows:

• Mallards: 2,778
• Scaup: 232
• Goldeneyes: 7,549
• Buffleheads: 6,561
• Mergansers: 2,613
• Ruddy ducks: 107
• Harlequin ducks: 24
• Canada geese: 3,286

While Maine’s numbers were relatively low this year, the overall status of winter populations cannot be determined until Maine’s data are pooled with the other state’s numbers from Maine to Florida. Collectively, these data provide a relative index to the abundance of all waterfowl species and their distribution within the flyway.

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine –-(AmmoLand.com)- Bids are being accepted for the 2010 Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Moose Permit Auction.

Each year, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife auctions 10 moose hunting permits and awards them to the highest bidders. Proceeds from the auction go to the Youth Conservation Education Fund, which awards partial scholarships to send Maine boys and girls, ages 10-14, to one week of conservation camp at the Bryant Pond 4-H Camp and Learning Center on Lake Christopher or Greenland Point Center on Long Lake in Princeton.

More than 400 boys and girls were able to attend conservation camp in 2009 because of these scholarships.

“Ever since the auction began, hunters have been very generous in their bids because, I believe, they know this program helps send Maine kids to conservation camp,” said Deputy Commissioner Paul F. Jacques. “We are appreciative of their participation in this program. While successful bidders get a permit, the real winners are the children.”

Maine Moose Hunting

The Moose Permit Auction was created by the Legislature in 1995 specifically to fund youth conservation education efforts. Ten of this year’s 3,015 allotted moose permits will be auctioned. Last year, close to $100,000 was raised from the auction, and the 10 winners had a 90 percent success rate.

The 10 highest bidders are able to choose their 2010 season hunt dates.

Bids must be submitted to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife no later than 5 p.m. EDT (Eastern Daylight Time) on February 17, 2010. A non-refundable bid fee of $25 must accompany each bid. A bid packet is available by calling (207) 287-5207.

Submitted bids will be opened Feb 19, and successful bidders will be contacted. If selected, bidders have 30 days to send in the bid payment and select a moose hunting district, hunting week for the permit and permit type. A subpermittee, if desired, must also be selected at this time. The bid amount covers the resident or non-resident moose permit fee, but does not include the resident or non-resident hunting license fee.

The Bryant Pond 4-H Camp and Learning Center and the Greenland Point Center offer five-day residential camps that are designed to teach the boys and girls of Maine the importance of conservation, a respect for the environment and a working knowledge of outdoor skills. Subjects taught at the camp include wildlife identification, introduction to fishing, boating safety, archery, firearms handling, hunter safety, forest conservation and map and compass work.

The two conservation camps currently are accepting applications for this summer’s camp sessions. Partial scholarships are available and distributed on a first come, first serve basis. For information and applications, visit www.extension.umaine.edu/bryantpond/ or www.greenlandpoint.com

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine –-(AmmoLand.com)- The Maine Warden Service is urging people to check any ice before venturing out as spring-like conditions, with warm temperatures, substantial rainfall and heavy winds, are weakening ice throughout the state.

According to the National Weather Service, between one to three inches of rain is expected today (Jan. 25, 2010), and temperatures near or above freezing are expected for most of the week.

Significant snow melt is likely, with possible flooding.

The heavy rains either will open the water, thin existing ice or create slush, according to Maine Warden Service Major Gregory Sanborn. Inlets and outlets will be dangerous due to runoff from rivers and streams.

“January ‘thaws’ are not unusual,” said Major Sanborn. “However, most of Maine has not had a consistent stretch of sub-freezing temperatures this winter to provide a thick layer of ice that can withstand this wet, warm spell. What may have been moderately safe ice this past weekend may be extremely treacherous this week.”

The Maine Warden Service offers these tips for ice safety:

• Never guess the thickness of the ice – Check it! Check the ice in several different places using an auger or some other means to make a test hole and determine the thickness. Make several, beginning at the shore, and continuing as you go out.
  Check the ice with a partner, so if something does happen, someone is there to help you. If you are doing it alone, wear a lifejacket.
• If ice at the shoreline is cracked or squishy, stay off! Watch out for thin, clear or honeycombed ice. Dark snow and dark ice are other signs of weak spots.
  Avoid areas with currents, around bridges and pressure ridges. Wind and currents can break ice.
• Parents should alert children of unsafe ice in their area, and make sure that they stay off the ice. If they insist on using their new skates, suggest an indoor skating rink.

If you break through the ice, remember:

• Don’t panic.
• Don’t try to climb out immediately – you will probably break the ice again. Reach for solid ice.
• Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice. Once on the ice, roll, DON’T WALK, to safety.
• To help someone who has fallen through the ice, lie down flat and reach with a branch, plank or rope or form a human chain. Don’t stand. After securing the victim, wiggle backwards to the solid ice.

DID YOU KNOW: All proceeds from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses stay at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife? Not planning to hunt or fish? Consider buying a license as a way to support our fish and wildlife management efforts. Please go to: http://www.informe.org/moses/ Thank you for your continued support!

IF&W: We are stewards of Maine’s fish and wildlife, protecting and preserving Maine’s natural resources, quality of place and economic future

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Maine - -(Ammoland.com)- The Maine Warden Service this week arrested or summonsed seven adults and a juvenile from Aroostook County on hunting, fishing or drug charges, the result of a six-month special investigation into illegal fishing and hunting activity that was initiated from a tip to a district game warden.

On Tuesday evening, January 12, 2010, game wardens and supervisors of the Maine Warden Service served four search warrants and an arrest warrant in Aroostook County with the assistance of the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency. Two individuals were arrested and six received summonses.

The Maine Warden Service is working with the Aroostook County District Attorney’s Office on this case.

In June 2009, the Maine Warden Service received information that alleged that Stephen Rediker, 30, of Mapleton was committing fish and wildlife law violations. During an investigation, the Maine Warden Service documented more than 90 violations by Mr. Rediker, including the illegal killing of deer and moose. The investigation also revealed that Mr. Rediker had several associates who were participating in the illegal possession of fish and wildlife, resulting in additional search warrants and suspect interviews.

The total number of violations detected by this group exceeded 125, according to Maine Warden Service Captain Daniel Scott.

“This special investigation was a priority for the Maine Warden Service, especially given the struggling deer herd in northern Maine,” said Major Gregory Sanborn. “After much-spirited and emotional debate last summer, policy makers decided that our junior hunters would be prohibited from taking antlerless deer during the special youth hunt day last fall in northern and eastern Maine, and yet this small group appears to have had no such reservations or concerns on the lasting impact as a result of their actions.”

On Tuesday, Jan. 12, Mr. Rediker was arrested for night hunting, exceeding the bag limit on deer, and killing a moose in closed season – all Maine Title 12 Class D violations – and criminal threatening with a dangerous weapon (Class C, Title 17A), and trafficking prescription drugs (Class B, Title 17A). He was taken to Aroostook County Jail in Houlton. Class D violations carry mandatory minimum fines, jail terms and mandatory license suspensions, if convicted.

As the investigation continues, more charges are likely against Mr. Rediker, according to Captain Scott.

During the execution of the search warrants, Game Wardens seized firearms, deer meat, fishing equipment, illegal drugs and other evidence.

Julie R. Faria, 37, Mapleton, was arrested for furnishing prescription drugs and possession of marijuana. She was taken to the Presque Isle Police Department, where she posted bail and was released.

The following individuals were summonsed for their involvement:

· Robin D. Cobb, 37, Woodland, possessing antlerless deer, possessing unregistered deer, cultivation of marijuana;

· Timothy N. Rediker Jr., 55, Presque Isle, illuminating wildlife, night hunting;

· Joseph H. Little, 69, Presque Isle, possessing deer killed at night, possessing deer killed in closed season, possessing antlerless deer;

· Roy D. Little, 20, Mapleton, possessing deer killed at night, possessing deer killed in closed season, possessing antlerless deer;

· Adam S. Murphy, 18, Mapleton, hunting fox in closed season.

“These individuals are intentional violators who had a significant negative impact on our fish and wildlife resources,” according to Captain Scott. “They demonstrated complete disregard for Maine’s fish and wildlife laws and the safety of the public.”

The Maine Warden Service urges anyone with information regarding the abuse of our fish and wildlife resources to call Operation Game Thief at 1-800-ALERT-US.

About:
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife are stewards of Maine’s fish and wildlife, protecting and preserving Maine’s natural resources, quality of place and economic future.

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, MA ––(AmmoLand.com)- Maine 2010 hunting and fishing licenses now are available for purchase just in time for holiday gift giving.

Licenses are available using MOSES, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife’s online licensing system, at https://www.informe.org/moses/.

This system, too, is used at more than 300 licensing agents statewide.

With MOSES, hunters and anglers can purchase licenses at any time of the day or night and print their licenses from their home or office computer in just minutes. It’s also easier to print duplicate licenses, and by clicking on “express user” the system will maintain your information for future license purchases.

Any resident or non-resident sportsperson looking to hunt or fish in Maine can use MOSES. This online service in not available for individuals that need to obtain a complimentary, lifetime or military license, or for those interested individuals from countries other than the United States or Canada.

All hunters and anglers will notice an increase in license fees this year. For resident anglers and hunters, most licenses are increasing by $4. The price increase, approved by the Maine Legislature, helps the Department cover the costs of fish and wildlife resource management. When considering the license fees in other states, Maine’s rates are comparable or are a better bargain for outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, Maine offers wide open spaces and some of the best opportunities in the country! Ask any angler and you’ll hear that this year’s fishing was the best in years!

The best value for residents is a hunt-fish combo license, which increased by $4. If you hunt and fish, buying a combo license instead of each license separately saves $4.

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife primarily is funded from the sales of licenses and registrations. This year, the Department will receive little revenue from the state’s general fund.

All proceeds from the sale of licenses and registrations stay within the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. None of the money is used to support other state agencies.

If you believe in the Department’s efforts to manage Maine’s natural resources, but may not be a hunter or angler, consider buying a license to support our programs. Outdoor recreation activities such as hunting, fishing, ATV riding, snowmobiling, boating and wildlife watching contribute $2.4 billion to Maine’s annual economy and support 15,790 outdoors-related jobs.

Using MOSES is simple. License buyers will need to have available their personal information, such as first and last name, address, date of birth, and other pertinent information. Also, they’ll need their previous hunting license number or safety course number (if you are purchasing a hunting authority), and a credit card number. Visa, Mastercard and Discover credit and debit cards are accepted.

By purchasing online, buyers are saving the department the direct costs associated with the expense of manual paper licensing. These savings then can be applied to the important management of our fish and wildlife resources.

About:
IF&W: We are stewards of Maine’s fish and wildlife, protecting and preserving Maine’s natural resources, quality of place and economic future. Visit: www.maine.gov/ifw/

Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

AUGUSTA, Maine – -(AmmoLand.com)- The Maine Warden Service is urging people to not venture out onto any ice that may be covering Maine’s waterways.

Throughout Maine, the state’s lakes and ponds may appear to be frozen in parts or their entirety, but safe ice conditions cannot be assumed even though temperatures have been below freezing in recent days and at night.

Also, any snow covering thin layers of ice acts as insulation and slows the freezing process.

“There are no safe ice conditions anywhere in the state right now,” said Col. Joel Wilkinson, chief warden of the Maine Warden Service. “I understand that people are anxious to begin winter activities, such as ice fishing and snowmobiling. But don’t risk your life or the lives of others by traveling onto thin ice.”

As the temperatures continue to fall in the coming weeks, and the ice begins to thicken, the Maine Warden Service is recommending that people check the thickness of any ice before venturing out for any activity on frozen water.

If you must go on the ice this winter, the Maine Warden Service offers these tips for ice safety:

• Never guess the thickness of the ice – Check it! Check the ice in several different places using an auger or some other means to make a test hole and determine the thickness. Make several, beginning at the shore, and continuing as you go out.
• Check the ice with a partner, so if something does happen, someone is there to help you. If you are doing it alone, wear a lifejacket.
• If ice at the shoreline is cracked or squishy, stay off! Watch out for thin, clear or honeycombed ice. Dark snow and dark ice are other signs of weak spots.
• Avoid areas with currents, around bridges and pressure ridges. Wind and currents can break ice.
• Parents should alert children of unsafe ice in their area, and make sure that they stay off the ice. If they insist on using their new skates, suggest an indoor skating rink.
• If you break through the ice, remember:
• Don’t panic.
• Don’t try to climb out immediately – you will probably break the ice again. Reach for solid ice.
• Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice. Once on the ice, roll, DON’T WALK, to safety.
• To help someone who has fallen through the ice, lie down flat and reach with a branch, plank or rope or form a human chain. Don’t stand. After securing the victim, wiggle backwards to the solid ice.

About:
IF&W: We are stewards of Maine’s fish and wildlife, protecting and preserving Maine’s natural resources, quality of place and economic future.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Columbus, Ohio – -(AmmoLand.com)- Sportsmen won a major victory on November 10 as Maine’s Federal District Court blocked an effort by anti’s to misuse the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to stop hunting, fishing, and trapping.

In 2008, the Animal Welfare Institute and the Wildlife Alliance of Maine filed a lawsuit against the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife seeking a permanent injunction to stop trapping in the state. The anti’s claimed that Maine’s trapping regulations provided insufficient protection to the Canada lynx, a species listed as threatened under the ESA. They argued that the accidental taking of a single animal was enough to justify the closing of the state’s trapping season.

If successful, it would have established a precedent that could block hunting, fishing and trapping should a single protected animal be captured or killed.

Throughout the case, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF), along with the Maine Trappers’ Association, Fur Takers of America, National Trappers’ Association, and several individual sportsmen, argued that the anti’s had to show that Maine’s trapping practices were a threat to the entire Canada lynx population.

In the decision, Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. denied the injunction sought by the anti’s. Further, he upheld the idea that a season could not be blocked due to individual incidents that did not threaten the entire protected species.

“The Court’s decision is a monumental victory for the trappers in Maine,” said Rob Sexton, USSAF vice president for government affairs. “It sets an excellent precedent that will make it harder for the antis to misuse the ESA in their attempts to ban hunting and trapping in other states.”

“We knew the evidence was on our side and are thrilled with the outcome,” said Skip Trask, Maine Trappers Association executive director. “The USSAF’s legal assistance was invaluable to the favorable outcome.”

“Trappers nationwide should be grateful that the court saw through what the anti’s were trying to do,” said Chick Andres, Fur Takers of America president.

In 2008 the USSAF’s legal arm, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund, was granted permission to intervene in the lawsuit. The case came on the heels of similar case, also in Maine, that was settled in late 2007 when the DIFW agreed to restrict trap sizes in areas where Canada lynx exist.

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. For more information about the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation and its work, call (614) 888-4868 or visit its website, www.ussafoundation.org.

Outdoors Magazine

Sidney, Maine --(AmmoLand.com)- Vinnie Trask of Sidney, Maine celebrated Veteran’s Day a few hours late in the North Maine Woods. He did it in style though with a trophy that carried 8 points and 250-plus pounds.

Trask was staying at Pine Grove Lodge in Pleasant Ridge, Maine, and was a guest of the Pine Grove Program, which gives free hunting, fishing, and outdoor-related trips to people with disabilities – primarily those received as the result of a man-made or natural disaster. In Trask’s case he is a Vietnam-era veteran who lost both of his knees while working on aircraft. These days he gets around on prosthetics with the use of a cane.

Veteran Deer Hunter's Big Maine Buck

Early this morning Trask was working his way into a “hot spot” when he caught the flag of a deer in the distance. As he waited for it to get lighter he slowly worked up a logging trail for a better vantage point.

As Trask topped a small hill he spotted the heavy-racked buck in the distance and fired. The deer disappeared and Trask continued to slowly make his way along. In a short time he caught the deer standing about 150 yards away looking back at him. This would be the big buck’s last mistake. As Trask’s gun again disrupted the quiet morning air the deer dropped out of sight.

Due to the roughness of the terrain Trask waited for reinforcements before going to see if his shot had hit home like he suspected. In no time guides Heath and Steve Howe arrived on the scene.

“It took them about an hour to find the deer,” said Trask. “”It was about 50 yards from where I thought I shot him.” After examining the buck it was clear Trask’s long shot had broken the deer’s back.

“I’ve been lucky to shoot seven deer over 200 pounds,” said Trask, who also wanted to thank Bob and Andrea Howe and the Pine Grove Program for all they do to help people with disabilities.

For more information visit www.pinegroveprogram.com.

About:
Each month Outdoors Magazine shines its spotlight on different areas of the outdoors world. Features and sub-features are multiple page spreads written by select experts in their fields. In addition to features and sub-features, each month Outdoors Magazine has over 40 columns written by real guides, industry experts, and the best in their fields. Our staff are die-hards who take the time out of their lives hunting and fishing to write.