DNR will take over management of the gray wolf in Wisconsin outside of reservations. This photo is of a captive gray wolf at the MacKenzie Environmental Education Center. Wisconsin Wildlife Federation Photo

Wisconsin DNR

PARK FALLS, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Beginning Friday, Jan. 27, 2011, the gray wolf will no longer be considered a federally endangered species in Wisconsin and other parts of the western Great Lakes region.

In Wisconsin, the state Department of Natural Resources will manage the wolf population outside of tribal reservation lands. DNR officials said areas where wolves have attacked domestic animals will be addressed immediately.

“We’ve been fighting hard to gain this authority, and we are grateful to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for removing gray wolves in the upper Midwest from the lists of endangered and threatened species,” said DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp.

“We are ready and capable of managing Wisconsin’s wolf population at a healthy, sustainable level and we welcome the opportunity to begin addressing those areas where problem wolves are attacking domestic animals.”

Wisconsin regulations will treat the gray wolf as a protected wild animal, which means that authorization from the DNR is required before a person can attempt to “take” or kill a wolf. There are currently no plans for a hunting season on wolves. This would involve a change in state law and a public rule-making process.

Wisconsin’s 1999 wolf management plan and a 2007 addendum to the plan will be the basis of wolf management in the state. These documents outline the conservation strategy for Wisconsin’s wolf population, as well as, outlining the approach for controlling depredation situations. Copies of these documents can be found on the department website.

Landowners or people leasing land will have authority to shoot wolves only when in the act of attacking domestic animals on their land. They also will be able to get permits to shoot any wolf coming on their land if they have experienced wolf problems within the last two years.

Any wolf shot or trapped by a landowner or leaseholder must be reported to the DNR within 24 hours. The carcass must be turned over the DNR.

Conditions under which control permits will be issued include the following five situations:

• Landowners have had verified attacks on livestock or pets on their property within the last two years can request permits.
• Landowners with vulnerable pets or livestock, and whose property lies within one mile of a property with a depredation during the same year.
• Farmers with livestock in a DNR-designated “proactive control area.”
• Farmers who have had verified harassment of livestock.
• Any landowner in an area where a perceived human safety situation occurs.

Under the rule published by USFWS in late December, which takes effect Friday, gray wolves in the Western Great Lakes Distinct Population Segment will no longer be considered either endangered or threatened by the federal government. The segment includes the states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota and portions of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, South Dakota and North Dakota.

Along with permits to landowner, the services of U.S. Department of Agriculture-Wildlife Service trappers will again be available to trap and remove problem wolves in Wisconsin.

USDA-Wildlife Service, which operates in Wisconsin under a contract with the DNR, will be available to investigate reports of wolf depredations and when wolf depredations are verified would be authorized to capture problem wolves. Because suitable wolf habitat is saturated in Wisconsin, wolves captured at depredation sites will not be relocated but will be euthanized.

With the federal delisting of wolves, states will be required to continue monitoring of the state wolf populations for the next five years. The department currently uses a system of radio-tracking collared wolves, snow track surveys and collection of public wolf observations to track population trends.

The DNR will continue to recruit and train citizen volunteers to assist with wolf management, primarily through tracking surveys.

During the winter of 2010-2011, biologists estimated a population of about 800 wolves in Wisconsin. The results of this winter’s surveys will be available in the spring.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Adrian Wydeven, DNR mammalian ecologist, at 715-762-1363; Ed Culhane, DNR communications, at 715-781-1683, or Bob Manwell, DNR communications, at 608-264-9248

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Much of Wisconsin received snowfall last weekend and this week, but snow depths continue to be marginal for outdoor winter recreation through much of southern, central and northwestern parts of the state.

Anywhere from 4 to 6 inches of snow fell last weekend, but the snow was light and fluffy and strong winds caused drifting and bear spots in many locations.

Snowmobile trails remain open only in about a dozen northern counties, and are only rated as good in a few of those according to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism’s Snow Conditions Report (exit DNR). Cross-country ski conditions faired better, but many trails in the southern half of the state have had minimal grooming and many are reporting there are some bare or thin spots. The good news is that snow is forecast for later this week into the weekend, with higher amounts expected in the southern part of the state.

Cold temperatures that moved into Wisconsin this week have finally frozen over most of the larger lakes that still had open water last week, including Winnebago and Mendota. However, some areas are reporting that certain spots are still being kept open by large numbers of waterfowl that were staying in the area. And conservation wardens are continuing to caution that much of the ice that formed is still very thin, and now covered by a protective layer of snow. There were numerous reports of snowmobiles and ATVs going through the ice on Lake Winnebago in the last week. Wardens are still advising foot traffic only on southern waters and for people to check ice depths regularly and be prepared should they fall through thin ice.

Ice conditions in the north through the central part of the state are generally good with a foot or more being reported in many locations. Many areas reporting fishing action slowed this week, likely due to the new snow cover. The best action continued to be for panfish, with some reports of very nice crappie and bluegill being caught, but with anglers having to move around a lot to find them. Action for walleye was slower, but there were still some reports of nice northern pike being taken on tip-ups.

While ice has also begun to form on some Lake Michigan harbors, there were still anglers open water fishing this past week. None of the harbor ice is considered safe at this time. Similarly, ice is again forming on the Bay of Green Bay and Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay, but it is not safe. Anglers on Sawyer harbor and Little Sturgeon Bay were reportedly fishing along the shore ice, but with open water not too far out in the bay.

Mid-January generally is the onset of coyote and red fox breeding cycles that last into March. Cold, crisp winter nights afford opportunities to listen for the raspy barks of red fox or the high pitched yipping of coyotes. Pup litters of both species are born in March or April.

Among the waterfowl keeping areas of some lakes open were more than 300 tundra swans that have been on Lake Mendota for a couple of weeks. And more than 100 trumpeter swans have been reported on open water at Willow River State Park in St. Croix County. Visitors to bird feeder have included nuthatches, pine siskins, black-capped chickadees, dark-eyed juncos, blue jays, tufted titmice, northern cardinals and American goldfinches

• DNR Outdoor Report in Portable Document Format (Requires Adobe® Acrobat® Reader®)
• DNR Outdoor Report in Rich Text Format
• Upcoming Events at DNR Parks, Forests and Trails

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- With the announcement today that the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is removing the gray wolf from Endangered Species Act protection , Wisconsin’s long fought battle to manage growing wolf populations within its borders is nearly over.

Gov. Scott Walker has charged the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources with being ready to begin implementing Wisconsin’s Wolf Management plan by Feb. 1, 2012.

“We are eager and ready to take on the challenges of wolf management,” said DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp. “We appreciate Governor Walker’s attention to this issue.”

More information about the gray wolf in Wisconsin and a copy of the Wisconsin Wolf Management Plan are available on the DNR website.

Stepp also thanked the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (exit DNR) for their responsiveness to the concerns that she raised, especially with regard to their finding that the population of wolves in the Western Great Lakes is a single species. In addition, she praised the work of Wisconsin’s Congressional Delegation and that of Michigan and Minnesota in raising the importance of addressing this issue now at the national level.

“I want to acknowledge the citizens of Wisconsin for their patience as we worked on the delisting,” said Stepp. “They were persistent in bringing their concerns to my attention. It is because of that persistence that we were able to achieve the delisting.”

Today’s action is only the first step in the process. Once wolves are delisted, the DNR will be able to do depredation controls, via trapping and permits to landowners in depredation areas.

“While the department is committed to long-term conservation of wolves in Wisconsin, it is critical that we be allowed to manage wildlife populations within our borders,” said Stepp.

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- After last week’s colder temperatures and snowfall built up the anticipation of ice anglers, snowmobilers and skiers, warmer temperatures and rain this week dampened that excitement considerably.

Conservation wardens across the state are reporting that ice conditions have deteriorated considerably. Lakes that had 2 to 3 inches of ice now have areas of open water and ice just an inch or two thick along shorelines. Lakes in the far north are in the best condition, with some near shore areas having a solid 5 to 6 inches of ice, but areas out over deeper water and just a short distance away may only have 2 to 3 inches of ice.

Only far north central Wisconsin has any remaining snow cover, with the most being reported in northern Iron County at about 5 inches. Most areas are reporting only 1 to 3 inches of snow remain.

Prior to the warm-up anglers were reporting fair to good action on early ice for bluegills and some northern pike. Initial walleye success on northern lakes has been generally slow for the tip-up anglers, but a few nicer fish have shown up, including a couple of 25-inch walleye have been reported.

Ice had begun to form on both Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay and on Lake Michigan’s Green Bay, but with warmer temperatures and wind, most of that ice has broken up. Some anglers have returned to open water fishing, with reports of walleye being caught from boats on the Fox River and some good sauger action on the Mississippi River.

Reports were mixed from the statewide antlerless deer hunt, with some areas mostly in the southern part of the state reporting participation and deer registrations were up, while activity was limited in much of northern Wisconsin. Bow hunters are now taking advantage of this recent mild weather to spend more time on tree stands.

Large flocks of Canada geese are still being reported across much of the state. The exterior goose season is now closed, but the Mississippi River subzone remains open through Dec. 29. Turkeys are reporting to be forming into their larger winter flocks with as many as 40 to 50 being seen feeding on many agricultural fields in the mild weather.

With the mild weather, some late season hunters are reporting still seeing black bear out and about, and wildlife biologists confirmed a black bear denning up in Sauk County this week, the first time this has been confirmed in quite a few years.

There has been an abundance of divers ducks, especially golden-eyes and mallards, stil being seen because of the open water. Large numbers of migrating waterfowl has been seen along the shores of Green Bay, including one report of an estimated 12,000 mergansers.

And for people looking for last minute holiday gifts for the outdoors lovers on their lists, 2012 Wisconsin State Park admission stickers and State Trail passes are on sale now at all state park and forest offices and DNR Service Centers.

DNR Outdoor Report in Portable Document Format (Requires Adobe® Acrobat® Reader®)

Wisconsin 2012 Black Bear Permit Application Deadline Dec. 10 2011

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Black bear hunters have until close of business on Dec. 10 to apply for available permits for the 2012 black bear hunting season.

Applications for the black bear permit drawing cost $3 and may be purchased through the Online Licensing Center on the DNR website, at all authorized license agents, at DNR Service Centers (Hours for service centers vary; check the DNR website for service center days and hours of operation; DNR Service Centers are not open on Saturdays), or by calling toll-free 1-877-LICENSE (1-877-945-4236).

The 2012 black bear season begins Sept. 5, the first Wednesday after Labor Day, and runs through Oct. 9. The opening week of Wisconsin’s bear hunting season alternates – allowing those who hunt over bait to go first one year and those who hunt with the aid of dogs to go first the next year.

In 2012, hunters who hunt over bait will go first in all management zones; the season for those hunting with the aid of dogs or using other methods will open Sept. 12 in zones that allow hunting with the aid of dogs (A,B, and D). In Zone C, where hunting with dogs is prohibited, hunters may hunt bear over bait or by other means not using dogs from September 5th through Oct. 9.

There were 27,793 hunters who submitted applications for the 9,005 Class A bear harvest permits available for the 2011 bear season. A total of 103,853 hunters applied for either a harvest permit or a preference point in 2011.

Applicants currently need to have collected between four and nine preference points in order to successfully draw a bear harvest permit. Hunters can check their preference point status in one of three ways: by visiting the Online Licensing Center, by calling Customer Service & Licensing toll-free at 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936-7463), or by contacting a local DNR Service Center.

The bear drawing is held each year in early February. Drawing winners will be notified via U.S. Mail shortly after the drawing. Drawing winners may purchase their 2012 Class A bear license beginning March 7, the start of the 2012 license year.

Total permit availability for the 2012 black bear season has not yet been determined. Proposed quota and permit levels will be taken up by the State Natural Resources Board at its January 2012 meeting.

More information on black bear hunting is available on the DNR website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Linda Olver, Assistant Big Game Specialist – (608) 261-7588

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Reports from across Wisconsin indicate that white-tail deer movement has picked up considerably in the last week, with bucks beginning to pursue does even during the day.

The most activity continues to be near dusk and at night, and conservation wardens across the state are reporting increased numbers of car-vehicle collisions in the last week. Drivers should slow down and watch for deer along roads. If a deer crosses the road, be prepared for another deer following closely behind.

With leaf drop done across most of the north and progressing rapidly in central and southern Wisconsin, archery deer hunters reported a big increase in success this week, with many nice bucks reported. Crop harvest is also progressing rapidly, which is also making it easier for hunters to spot deer.

The strong winds of a week ago brought in the first flights of northern ducks and increased the number of Canada geese moving into the state. Diving duck numbers are building to peaks on the Upper Mississippi River and large inland water bodies. The aerial counts for pools 7, 8, and 9 on the Upper Miss exceeded 80,000 canvasbacks early last week.

Pheasant hunters are reporting very good success on the stocked state hunting grounds. Woodcock numbers also increased in many locations this week, as their migration seems to be peaking.

Trapping has begun and trappers are reporting increased numbers of raccoon and muskrat, with some potholes and marshes that were empty several years ago due to the drought showing muskrat houses again.

With all the hunting and trapping activity, fishing has been slower, but some very good reports are coming in from anglers who are still fishing. Water temperatures have now dropped into the low 50s and upper 40s on northern lakes, and many lakes either have or are turning over. Musky anglers have continued to provide most of the fishing pressure, with nearly all having switched to live suckers now. Some very good crappie and bluegill action is also being reported on the backwaters of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers.

Water flows on Lake Michigan tributaries have been kept pretty constant with some timely rains, but levels have now been dropping. This has helped to extend the fish run through October. Salmon were still being reported in most tributaries this week, but numbers have been declining. Egg collection at spawning facilities is coming to a close, after a very successful year.
DNR fish crews netting sturgeon on the Wisconsin River below the Prairie du Sac Dam this week pulled in a 46-and-a-half pound bighead carp, an invasive fish. This is the second bighead carp documented on the Lower Wisconsin River. Bighead carp are a concern because they eat plankton and can potentially decrease populations of native fish and mussels.

Common Loon migration has begun with birds moving into the bigger lakes in Southern Wisconsin and onto Lake Michigan to stage before they leave for the Gulf Coast for the winter. People can follow the loon migration online at the USGS Loon website (exit DNR).

Tamaracks, the only conifer in Wisconsin to turn color and drop leaves, are now bright gold across northern and central Wisconsin, and a second burst of fall color has arrived in southern Wisconsin this week, with trees that were green last week turning red/rust color, and many yellow leaves still holding on.

DNR Outdoor Report in Portable Document Format (Requires Adobe® Acrobat® Reader®)

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Warm temperatures have continued to dominate the weather scene in Wisconsin this week, with most of the state also receiving some much needed rainfall, including some locally heavy rains in central and southern Wisconsin, which have lead to some rapidly rising and falling water levels on streams and rivers.

The warm weather continues to bring out large numbers of boaters to lakes and rivers, and conservation wardens are receiving many complaints of boats and personal water craft traveling too close to other boats. Water levels had dropped significantly on the Rock and Crawfish River and boaters are urged to use caution as several boats have been damaged by hitting rocks, but levels have risen some with recent rains. Water levels on the lower Wisconsin State Riverway also rose this week. The north has received just light and scattered rainfall in last few weeks and most streams and rivers are near their typical summer low levels. Most natural lakes are also at a low level and many of the flowages are beginning to experience a drop in water levels as well.

Angling success continued to be erratic, with bass providing the most consistent action. Largemouth were being found in thick cover, in the down wood, near the bog edges, in the thick lily pad beds and under mats of vegetation, with smallmouth a little more inconsistent as dropping water levels and warmer temperatures keeping theme on the move. Walleye success has been fair. With water temperatures still in the 80-degree range, many musky anglers have heeded the warnings and let up on fishing pressure. Panfish action has been generally good, with some decent catches of crappie, perch and rock bass reported, but bluegill retreating to deeper water and tough to find. In the south, anglers are having some luck on Beaver Dam area lakes with perch and walleye. Wisconsin River area anglers have been doing very well on catching northern pike, and anglers have still been catching channel catfish throughout the upper Rock and Crawfish rivers .

On Green Bay, walleye fishing continued to be good off Geano Beach on the west shore and Bayshore Park on the east. Perch fishing has improved some in Sawyer Harbor at Sturgeon Bay. On Lake Michigan, west winds last week dropped water temperatures as low as 45 degrees north of Two Rivers. But by the weekend, temperatures rose to 60 degrees at piers to 65 degrees in some lakeshore areas. Angler success out on the lake from most ports continued to be slow, with some chinook reported out of Manitowoc and Two Rivers and a mixed bag of coho, chinook, and lake trout out of Sheboygan and Port Washington. Racine and Kenosha trollers have been catching fewer coho, but more chinook, and rainbow trout.

Some very small spotted fawns are being seen again, indicating some late birthing still taking place. Similarly, some turkeys broods are being seeing with very small poults, indicating there was probably some late re-nesting. The fall shorebird migration is going strong with the peak of adults moving through the Wisconsin at this time. Good numbers of yellowlegs, least sandpipers, and other species are being seen at various wetlands.

Good numbers of swallowtail butterflies are being seen in some areas, while some are reporting fewer monarchs. Black caps are reaching their peak in southern Wisconsin, but large swarms of deerflies continue to make picking difficult.

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- The June issue of the Wildlife Management bi-monthly report is now available on the DNR’s website (http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/wildlife2.pdf).

In this issue, you will find information about potential changes to the duck zones, an increase in the ruffed grouse population, a summary of the deer season framework, and elk assisted dispersal, among many other things.

Keep up to date with the activities of the wildlife biologists and property managers of the Wisconsin DNR’s Bureau of Wildlife Management.

The following reports have been contributed by staff from the WDNR wildlife management and research programs, is compiled and edited by Bill Vander Zouwen, and designed by Meaghan Proctor.

This report is intended to raise awareness of DNR staff and stakeholders regarding wildlife management activities, accomplishments, challenges and plans. We are hoping that these reports will help build a broad coalition working toward our shared vision of producing abundant wildlife for all who appreciate how wildlife contributes to their quality of life.

—

June Issue Wisconsin Wildlife Management Bi-Monthly Report

Wisconsin DNR Needs Your Help With Game Bird Brood Observations

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- The Wisconsin DNR is asking for your help in measuring the brood production of some of the state’s upland game bird species.

We are looking for observations of broods of pheasant, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, prairie chicken, gray partridge, and bobwhite quail.

Wisconsinites spend many days outdoors during the summer months, and see a variety of our state’s abundant wildlife. This makes you a good source of information on the reproductive status of some of our wildlife species.

No special effort is required! Just go about your normal summertime activities, and when you see a brood of young pheasants, turkey, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, prairie chicken, gray partridge, or bobwhite quail, please report your sightings. Instructions on how to perform the survey, a link to the survey form, and a tally sheet for your use can be found here.

Also report any sightings of turkey and pheasant hens that do not have broods.

During the summer of 2010, Wisconsinites reported 950 observations of game broods of wild turkey, ring-necked pheasant, ruffed grouse, prairie chicken, sharp-tailed grouse, gray partridge and bobwhite quail. The most frequently observed game bird species were wild turkey (765 observations) and ruffed grouse (117 observations).

Results from your observations will be used to monitor the reproductive status of these birds and to help make fall hunting forecasts. If you have any questions about the survey, or if you have any issues accessing the survey website please contact Brian Dhuey.

Thank you for your interest in Wisconsin’s wildlife.

Among the 12 wild Wisconsin elk released from their "acclimation pen" this past week were cow number 277 and bull number 293, whose break-away color came off a couple weeks ago. Both are just turning two years old. The photographer, while not invisible to the elk, was sufficiently camouflaged to allow for this exposure. Wisconsin's wild elk are managed with minimal human contact, and they retain their natural wariness and fear of people. DNR Photo by Ed Culhane

Wisconsin DNR

HAYWARD, Wisc --(Ammoland.com)- This is the calving season for Wisconsin’s small but growing elk herd and biologists with the state Department of Natural Resources, joined by a small army of volunteers, are busy searching the woods for newborns.

The search is expanded this year because a dozen of Wisconsin’s wild elk, all young animals, were trapped this past winter and were moved to an “acclimation pen” 10 miles distant from the main herd as the crow flies.

That pen – a black plastic wall that surrounded 2.3 acres of forest around Clam Lake – was breached this past Wednesday by DNR biologists who quickly retreated after leaving piles of alfalfa outside the opening. This allowed the wary elk to wander out into their new territory, undisturbed by humans.

They’ll make quick work of the alfalfa and will then start in on the forest, concentrating on new growth along the edges of openings in the forest canopy. They may have a preference for large-leaf aspen, but for elk – an ungulate whose large rumen allows it to digest an even greater variety of plants than white-tailed deer – it’s all food.

“Elk are eating machines,” said DNR elk biologist Laine Stowell. “They eat almost everything.”

There are four young bulls in the group, all 2 years old, and eight cows, ages 2 to 4. Three of the cows are pregnant. This operation is an “assisted dispersal,” a way of encouraging the herd to expand its range, which may in turn help the herd grow and remain healthy.

The reintroduction of wild elk in Wisconsin, which began with the release of 25 transplanted animals in May 1995, is a wildlife success story that is still unfolding. Progress has been slow at times, and there have been difficulties, but the herd has grown to about 150 animals.

It now seems likely the autumn bugling of elk, like the call of the loon, will become emblematic of the wild beauty of Wisconsin’s Northwoods.

“I’m a lifelong resident of this area,” said Ed Metcalf, a large animal veterinarian who has provided invaluable assistance to the elk program. “I never thought I’d be able to drive 15 miles and see elk. I’ve gone out a few times when they were bugling and listened to them. It’s kind of special for people who get that opportunity.”

The return of wild elk to Wisconsin is a collaborative effort. Initiated by the University of Wisconsin, the effort is managed by the DNR with assistance from the U.S. Forest Service, the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and a large number of interested individuals, landowners and volunteers.

Stowell said that although the herd has grown to six times its original size in 16 years, it had not expanded beyond about 10 percent of the 1,112 square miles of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest originally designated as elk range.

Among the factors slowing herd growth is the presence of State Hwy. 77 and the vehicle collisions that result. A motorist elk warning system installed in 2006, featuring flashing lights activated by the proximity of elk collars, has reduced annual fatalities from 2.9 per 100 elk to 1.4.

Additionally, the wolf packs in the immediate vicinity of the herd have become expert elk hunters and have removed increasing numbers of animals in recent years. It will take years for wolves in the new area to develop the same level of expertise.

The animals most vulnerable to various forms of mortality are calves, which have about a 50 percent survival rate, and yearling elk, which experience a 23 percent rate of mortality. Most elk losses occur from January through mid May. The 12 young elk in the acclimation pen were protected during this period. This will allow them to acclimate to new surroundings under less dangerous conditions.

The elk were captured in corral traps. This is an enclosed pen 45 feet in diameter. It has a swinging door with a counter weight that is held open by a cable and triggering mechanism that is activated by a radio signal from a blind 100 yards away.

“We’ve caught as few as two elk and as many as 31 elk at one time,” Stowell said.

This past January, the DNR captured 95 elk, but with some being caught more than once, it worked out to 58 individual animals. Of these, 25 cows, eight bulls and one calf received new collars, which last about five years. Another six calves got their first collar. Some of the older elk have been collared two or three times.

Trapping is done with minimal human contact. Once corralled, elk are darted with immobilizing chemicals. Blood samples and other biological information are collected. Collars are replaced when necessary. The animals are hooded when handled and those being relocated were transported in livestock trailers with individual compartments.

The hope is that these young elk will adapt to their new surroundings. Learning how elk relate to various types of habitat is part of the ongoing project. A large lake and two rivers separate these youngsters from the main herd. It remains to be seen whether that will be enough.

“From what I’ve heard, people have seen them swimming across some of the smaller lakes,” Metcalf said.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Laine Stowell – (715) 634-9658 ext 3527 or Ed Culhane – (715) 839-3715

American Marten Management Plan Available For Review And Comment

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Two or more self-sustaining populations of American martens would be maintained in northern Wisconsin with an ultimate goal of upgrading the species status from its current endangered species classification, under a draft management plan currently open for public comment.

The Department of Natural Resources has drafted an American marten (Martes americana) conservation and management plan that updates the status of the species in Wisconsin and replaces an original Marten Recovery Plan in Wisconsin.

“The goal of this plan is to ensure that American martens remain a viable member of Wisconsin’s natural heritage today and for generations to come,” says Jim Woodford, a conservation biologist with the Department of Natural Resources in Rhinelander.

American martens have cultural significance to the Ojibwe Indians of Wisconsin. In addition they are one of the best indicator species for a contiguous, diverse, and healthy northern forest ecosystem.

In states and provinces where American martens are harvested, marten furs received the second-highest in total dollar sales of all wild furbearers sold in North America in 2010. In the western Great Lakes states, martens are legally trapped in northern Minnesota and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Woodford says martens were found nearly statewide throughout the forested regions of Wisconsin prior to European settlement, but their numbers and distribution decreased due to unregulated trapping, habitat loss, and subsequent wildfires. Even though marten trapping was prohibited in 1921, martens were considered extirpated from the state by 1925.

Martens (a member of the weasel family) were listed as a state endangered species, and a recovery plan was developed in 1986. Three major reintroduction projects have occurred since then to reestablish martens to the forests of northern Wisconsin.

Marten populations in Wisconsin are monitored annually by winter track surveys in two core population areas. These surveys have not provided definite population trends, in large part due to low density of animals. Researchers estimated between 160 and 282 martens in one core area in 2005. A partnership between DNR, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission are currently completing a three year project that reintroduced 90 martens into the other core area.

The draft management plan calls for, among other things, developing a more accurate population estimate of martens in Wisconsin, maintaining the established two marten protection areas, developing and implementing forest management guidelines to protect and improve marten habitat, and protecting and enhancing corridors for marten movements between isolated groups of martens.

The Draft Management and Conservation Plan for American Martens in Wisconsin (pdf) is available on the DNR website or by request to: Jim Woodford, Conservation Biologist, 107 Sutliff Avenue, Rhinelander, WI 54501, (715)365-8856, james.woodford@wisconsin.gov. Interested individuals or groups can submit comments on the draft plan to Woodford via written, e-mail, or oral comments through July 5, 2011.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Woodford – (715)365-8856

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- As residents and visitors to Wisconsin gear up for camping, fishing, hiking, and other recreation activities, state invasive species control specialists are asking them to consider how these activities can inadvertently spread invasive plants around the state.

“As we venture out to enjoy nature, everyone should be mindful of how humans and our activities can play a critical role in either increasing or slowing the spread of invasive plants,” says Tom Boos, an invasive plant control specialist with the Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry.

At this time of year, Boos says, garlic mustard is one of the most recognizable invasive plants in woodland settings and it is easily spreads by seed.

“Simply scraping mud off your boots or shoes before and after spending time in garlic-mustard infested areas and removing any seeds stuck to clothing can dramatically reduce the risk of spreading this and other invasive plants to new areas,” Boos says.

After camping, people should shake out and brush off equipment to avoid spreading invasive species to the next spot they set up camp. When fishing excursions come to an end, anglers should never dump worms or other bait in the water or out “in nature.”

“It is best to dispose of unused worms in the trash to avoid introducing worms into a nearby forest where they greatly harm the forest,” Boos says. “And remember to always remove any aquatic plants from boats and trailers and to drain all water before leaving a boat landing to avoid spreading aquatic invasive species or fish diseases.”

People take the time to visit parks and other wild areas because of their beauty and biodiversity, Boos notes, so taking these easy steps can help protect those valuable natural resources.

Regardless of the type of recreation activities people are participating in, there are simple actions they can take to minimize the spread of invasive species.

The Wisconsin Council on Forestry Invasive Species Best Management Practices [council.wisconsinforestry.org/invasives] (exit DNR) lists preventative steps for a wide range of outdoor activities from motorized sports and horseback-riding to hiking, biking, camping and hunting. There are also activity based handouts on the website that you can share with others that send the basic message of “Slow the spread by sole and tread”.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Boos – (608) 266-9276

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

OLYMPIA, WA --(Ammoland.com)- Flanked by recreation enthusiasts, Governor Chris Gregoire today signed legislation that will keep state park and recreation lands open with revenue from a vehicle access pass known as the Discover Pass.

“It is essential that we keep our recreation areas open to the public,” said Governor Gregoire. “I applaud the Legislature for coming together with a solution that allows us to help keep our state recreation lands open and accessible during the worst budget crisis in the state’s history.”

The Discover Pass will be required as of July 1 for vehicle access to recreation lands and water-access sites managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The pass—which will be available for sale in mid-June—will cost $30 a year per vehicle or $10 for a day-use pass. State recreation lands include state parks, boat launches, campgrounds, heritage sites, wildlife and natural areas, trails and trailheads.

Holders of certain types of fishing and hunting licenses, registered campers in state parks and other users are exempt from some Discover Pass requirements. For details, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov .

Discover Pass

Once available, the Discover Pass can be purchased at one of nearly 600 sporting goods or other retail stores that sell hunting and fishing licenses. It will also be available for purchase online or by calling toll free 1-866-320-9933. Beginning next fall, the public will be able to purchase a pass when renewing a vehicle license through the Washington State Department of Licensing. The Discover Pass or day-use pass must be visibly displayed in the front windshield of any motor vehicle.

Revenue from the Discover Pass will fill budget gaps created by the loss of State General Fund support for parks and recreation on state lands. Revenue will be split among the three state agencies that provide recreational access to state lands in proportion to their need for general fund replacement: 84 percent to State Parks; 8 percent to WDFW; and 8 percent to DNR.

State Parks, WDFW, and DNR jointly requested legislation that led to the creation of the Discover Pass, intended to provide revenue to maintain recreation access to state lands and meet the increasing demand for outdoor recreation. The legislation was sponsored by Sen. Kevin Ranker, D-San Juan Islands, who conducted stakeholder work and coordinated with other legislators. In addition to providing a stable source of revenue, the legislation provides reciprocal authority for law enforcement staff from each agency, which will improve public safety and help protect state resources.

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Wisconsin department of natural resources wild turkey update – leftover 2011 spring turkey permits go on sale next week!

The 2011 Spring Turkey Season is just around the corner and leftover spring turkey permits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis starting next week! Sales begin Monday, March 21 and leftover permits will be first issued for sale by zone, one zone per day, with each zone having a designated sales date as follows:

• Zone 1 = Monday, March 21st, 10am – midnight
• Zone 2 = Tuesday, March 22nd, 10am – midnight
• Zone 3 = Wednesday, March 23rd, 10am – midnight
• Zone 4 = Thursday, March 24th, 10am – midnight
• Zone 5 & Zone 6 = Friday, March 25th, 10am – midnight
• Any permits still remaining for all zones = Saturday, March 26th, starting at 10am and continuing until all permits are sold out or the season has come to an end

For information on how many permits remain in each zone and when, where, and how to purchase a leftover permit, please visit the DNR’s 2011 Spring Turkey Leftover Permit Availability website at www.dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/springturkey/.

Best of luck for an enjoyable and successful spring turkey season!

• To see this week’s press release announcing the upcoming leftover spring turkey permit sales, please visit: www.dnr.wi.gov/news/weekly.asp
• To visit the DNR’s Wild Turkey website, please visit: www.new.dnr.wi.gov/Default.aspx?Page=72659862-f510-474f-8f33-0f0d2a0b08d9

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- The Department of Natural Resources will request permission from the Natural Resources Board to purchase a CWD-infected Portage County farm known as the Hall Farm to protect wild deer in the area from chronic wasting disease.

The board meets March 23 in Madison. Citizens interested in testifying before the board on this matter must register with the Natural Resources Board Liaison, Laurie Ross, (608) 267-7420 Laurie.Ross@wisconsin.gov by 4:00 p.m. Friday Mar. 18.

Stan Hall operated but was not the owner of the farm. He operated the property as a whitetail deer farm until 2006 at which time it was closed down due to an outbreak of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Chronic wasting disease was first found in a deer harvested from the farm in 2002. Discovery of additional CWD positive deer followed. In 2006, the U.S. Department of Agriculture depopulated the farm’s deer herd in an agreement reached with the owner. At the time of depopulation, 60 of 76 animals euthanized tested positive for the fatal disease. In all, 80 CWD-positive animals were removed from the farm.

“To our knowledge this was the most heavily infected herd found anywhere in North America with 80% of the animals infected,” said Kurt Thiede, land administrator for DNR. “Science tells us CWD prions can survive for years in the soil and that healthy deer can become infected by contacting those prions. We believe that there is an unacceptable potential risk of wild deer being exposed to CWD-causing prions should the current fencing be damaged or removed. Purchasing this property is the best assurance we can give that deer-proof fences are maintained and the wild herd protected.”

The department’s recently adopted Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan 2010-2025 sets a goal to “minimize the area of Wisconsin where CWD occurs and the number of infected deer in the state.”

Since 2002, 1,200 Portage County wild deer have been tested for CWD with no positives.

With the current management agreement between the owner and the USDA due to expire in May 2011, DNR wildlife officials feel the only way the public can be assured the fences will be maintained is by purchasing the property. Stewardship funds will be used to purchase the property from Patricia Casey for $465,000. The department intends to allow access to the property for research purposes only.

Nature based outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, trapping, cross country skiing and hiking would be prohibited as part of the purchase approval. The primary purpose for this purchase is to create a permanent enclosure so that no wild deer may enter the property by any means and to ensure that no soil or sediments are removed from the property and transported to other locations unless authorized by the department, according to DNR officials. Additionally, DNR hopes to use the property to conduct research.

The department has determined that it is necessary to prohibit all public access to this site to accommodate the primary purpose. The authority to use this property as a place to conduct research and wildlife management is granted to the Department generally in s. 23.09 (2) Stats., and more specifically in s. 23.09 (2) (d) (15) and s. 23.09 (2) (k) Stats.

Full details on this action are available online at the DNR webpage, dnr.wi.gov. Select Natural Resources Board followed by Meeting Agendas and Materials

Written comments regarding this proposal and requests for additional information may be submitted to the attention of Richard Steffes, Bureau of Facilities and Lands, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, 101 South Webster Street, Madison, WI 53707-7921. Ph (608) 266-0201. Comments will be received through March 30, 2011.

“Wisconsin’s whitetailed deer herd is one of our state’s most valuable natural resources providing recreational and economic value and is a foundation of family traditions,” said Thiede. “Sportsmen and women rely on us to protect the wild herd. We feel this action is necessary to do that.”

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Wisconsin ended its 2010 gun-deer season free of hunter fatalities, a feat first and last seen in 1974.

“No one was shot and killed while deer hunting this year in Wisconsin,” said Tim Lawhern, Department of Natural Resources hunter education administrator and conservation warden. “This has happened once before in the state’s history of gun-deer seasons. And that was 36 years ago.”

Overall, there were 12 hunting incidents during the nine-day deer gun season. Lawhern said that for the families of those injured hunters, 2010 didn’t feel like a success. The agency only tracks firearm-related incidents and does not keep track of deaths or injuries due to heart attacks, tree stand falls or other causes.

“Any shooting incident is one too many,” Lawhern said. “We wish them all speedy recoveries.”

Lawhern, who also serves as the president of the International Hunter Education Association, says several factors are behind the successful hunt.

Education, guidelines and technology
High on Lawhern’s list as a key factor behind the second-only fatal-free season in Wisconsin’s history of the gun-deer hunt is the participation in the DNR Hunter Education Program – which began as hunter safety classes in 1967.

“The year before hunter education began in Wisconsin, the incident rate was 44 injuries for every 100,000 hunters,” Lawhern said, adding the 1967 course was six hours long and covered firearm safety only.

Things have changed since 1967.

“Since that time, we have seen things like the creation of opening and closing hours for hunting, mandatory blaze orange for hunters, full safety harnesses, firearm restrictions, global positioning satellite devices, cell phones and more,” he said. “All of these have contributed to the increased safety for hunters.”

Wisconsin’s hunter education certification program became mandatory for all hunters born or after Jan. 1, 1973 in 1985. That meant any hunter 12, the youngest legal hunter, beginning in 1985 had to complete the hunter education program.

“We have certified almost one million graduates. Our program has led the way both nationally – and internationally – with improved delivery, curriculum and outreach regarding safe and responsible hunting,” Lawhern said of the program taught by volunteer instructors statewide.

Wisconsin’s hunter education program has had many firsts, including the nation’s first online course, instructor academy and a junior instructor program.

“The hunter education program also has evolved into more topics including knowledge, responsibility and ethics,” he said.

While the fatal-free season is a victory for safety, Lawhern says it wasn’t a complete surprise.

Predicting the fatal-free season, and the four rules of firearm safety
Lawhern says considering all the progress made in hunting, along with looking at the records behind every shooting incident of past seasons, made it easy to predict the fatal-free season was coming.

“We know a tremendous amount about hunting incidents. We can predict who is going to be shot. We can predict how many, where and what they are going to be doing at that moment,” Lawhern said. “We just don’t have the names and addresses.”

Lawhern’s analysis shows about one-third to one-half of all injuries is related to deer drives. The self-inflicted injuries will be one-third to one half of all the total of the gun-deer season.

“We also know the shooters younger than 18 will make up about 20 to 30 percent of the shooting injuries. The vast majority will occur on private land and half will happen on opening weekend,” he said. “Ultimately, nearly all are linked to a violation of one or more of the four basic rules of firearm safety – treat every firearm as if it is loaded, never point your firearm at a person, never put your finger in the trigger until you are ready to shoot and know what is behind your target.”

And, Lawhern says, the most significant contributors to hunting incidents are those 35 and older – the hunters not covered by the mandat ory hunter education course rule. “All hunters should take the hunter education certification course – no matter the age.”

Safety doesn’t take breaks

“Our hunter education program is revered as one of, if not the best in the country,” Lawhern said, adding most of the volunteer instructors have never experienced a gun-deer season free of fatalities. “Those instructors, along with other factors, are major contributors to the success and safety of hunting.”

The course helps all hunters to make safety a habit.

“Safety does not take a vacation. Either you are safe all the time, every time, or you are not. You are only as safe as the next hunt,” he said.

Lawhern says he hopes those who haven’t completed the hunter education certification course will make it a priority in 2011 to make the next gun-deer season the third fatal-free in the state’s history. More information about hunter safety education is available on the DNR website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern – (608) 266-1317

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Three rule proposals to help protect Wisconsin cave bats from the fatal white-nose syndrome disease are available for public review and comment and will be the subject public hearings across the state later this month.

The proposed rules would list four cave bat species as threatened species, list the white-nose syndrome fungus as a prohibited invasive species, and allow monitoring of caves and mines and other preventive measures to limit the potential spread of white-nose syndrome.

Wisconsin has the largest concentration of bats in the upper Midwest. The most common Wisconsin bat – the little brown – is particularly susceptible to the disease and faces extinction.

White-nose syndrome is a white fungus that grows on nose, ears, muzzles and wings of bats. The disease is transmitted to bats from a cave that has been infected, likely from a human introduction on shoes or equipment. It kills up to 90 to 100 percent of bats in infected caves or mines used as hibernacula.

In just three years, the disease has spread across the eastern U.S. and Canada. It is now about 200 to 300 miles from Wisconsin’s borders, well within the 280-mile migrating range of bats.

“We need to act quickly to meet this threat. And we want everyone who is interested in the health of Wisconsin bats and the proposed rules to provide comments,” said Laurie Osterndorf, Administrator for DNR’s Land Division.

The public hearings will be on both emergency and permanent rule proposals to list the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), and eastern pipistrelle (Perimyotis subflavus) as threatened species under § NR 27.03(3), Wis. Adm. Code and to list the white-nose syndrome fungus, (Geomyces destructans) as a prohibited invasive species in § NR 40.04(2), Wis. Adm. Code. The third proposed rule adds provisions to NR 40.04 and 40.07 relating to early detection and prevention of the spread of the disease due to human activities, including the decontamination of clothes and equipment that have been used in mines or caves, and limited access of bats or people to caves or mines. Information on the decontamination protocols is available on the Saving Wisconsin Bats page of the DNR website.

The State Natural Resources Board at its On October 27 meeting adopted each of the three rules as the emergency orders, meaning that the provisions generally go into effect while the permanent rule is being developed. The board did amend the rule on decontamination requirements and the authority to restrict access to caves or mines to either humans or bats as applied to commercial caves or mines to begin 45 days after the effective date of the rule order.

The department will hold hearings on the bat rules via video conference on November 29 beginning at 11 a.m. with participation available at the locations listed below.

• Green Bay – Green Bay State Office Building, Room 618, 200 North Jefferson St.
• Madison – The Pyle Center, Room 315, 702 Langdon St.
• Eau Claire – Division of State Facilities, Eau Claire State Office Building, Room 139, 718 W Clairemont Ave.
• Wausau – UW Marathon County, Room 218, 518 S. 7th Ave.

The proposed rules and fiscal estimates may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted through the Wisconsin Administrative Rules website (exit DNR). Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail through 4 p.m. on November 29. to Stacy Rowe, DNR Bureau of Endangered Resources, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 or by email to stacy.rowe@wisconsin.gov.

Deer Meat Ginger Onion Feeds the Hungry

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- The Wisconsin Venison Donation Program and its affiliates, Hunt for the Hungry and Target Hunger along with more than 140 participating meat processors, are ready to accept and distribute extra venison donated by hunters.

A list of participating meat processors is available on the Department of Natural Resources website.

In this, the program’s 11th year, there are participating meat processors in 65 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties. In 10 years, hunters have donated more than 73,000 deer providing 3.3 million pounds of venison to food pantries across the state.

“Hunters have been generous providers in this program,” said Laurie Fike, venison program coordinator,

“but it has been the volunteers who have put a shoulder to the wheel and accomplished the huge job of distributing the product to the pantries, making it available to families needing some food assistance.”

In the southern Wisconsin CWD management zone, Target Hunger has taken on the task of making the program work smoothly. It involves a partnership of community action groups including Southwest Community Action Program (Dodgeville), Community Action, Inc., Janesville, Community Action Coalition for South Central Wisconsin, Madison, and Central Wisconsin Community Action Coalition, Wisconsin Dells. Hunt for the Hungry operates the program in the Green Bay area.

Additionally, U.S. Department of Agriculture – Wildlife Services staff help administer the program in 49 counties.
How to donate

For hunters, the process for donating a deer hasn’t changed. There is no charge to the hunter except for transporting the deer.

There only a few simple steps:

• Field dress the deer and register it at a Wisconsin DNR registration station prior to donating the deer.
• Call First! Contact one of the participating processors before dropping the deer off to verify the processor has space to accept your deer.
• Deer legally harvested outside the CWD management zone are registered with a silver metal tag. These deer can be dropped off at a participating processor by Jan. 10, 2011.
• Deer harvested in the CWD management zone are registered with a red metal tag. Red-tagged deer can only be donated to a processor participating in the Target Hunger program. Donated red-tagged deer are tested for CWD and only deer that test negative will go out to pantries.
• Donate the entire deer to receive the processing for free. (Head and/or antlers may be removed for mounting.)
• When dropping a deer off at a processor, sign the simple log sheet indicating your desire to donate the deer and the donated deer will be processed and the venison will be distributed to charitable organizations to help feed Wisconsin’s needy.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Laurie Fike – (608) 267-7974

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- In the months leading up to the 2010 hunting season, hunters across the state will anxiously await for their favorite time of year.

Time spent honing shooting skills, readying equipment and scouting the land for game sign are enjoyable and can pay off when the season opens.

Bonds with family and friends strengthen during the hunting season as old traditions continue and new ones begin.

And of course, everyone is wondering what the season will bring.

Attached below you can find the 2010 Wisconsin Hunting Season Forecast for FREE for AmmoLand readers.

2010 Wisconsin Hunting Season Forecast

2010 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Season Map

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI –-(AmmoLand.com)- The 2010 deer hunting seasons structure map is now available on the Department of Natural Resources website. The map identifies Deer Management Units (DMU) as regular, herd control or chronic wasting disease management earn-a-buck. The complete 2010 Deer Hunting Regulations will be available later this summer.

For 2010, a total of 66 DMUs are designated as regular units meaning they will have traditional nine-day gun hunts with buck plus antlerless quota rules. This is an increase from 62 regular units in 2009 and from 22 units in 2008.

Antlerless deer harvest is carefully managed by permits in regular units and 18 regular units will have no antlerless deer harvest permits available to deer hunters in 2010. This is up from 13 units with no antlerless permits available in 2009 and is the fastest possible way to increase herd populations in units where the herd is below established goals. In remaining regular units antlerless deer harvest permits are limited and unit-specific and may be purchased by residents for $12 each and by nonresidents for $20 each. Unit specific antlerless permits will go on sale in August.

At the suggestion of hunters and hunter groups, the department is proposing eliminating harvest of antlerless deer by bow hunters in gun quota units that do not have antlerless permits available. Public hearings on this proposal are scheduled for May 17 in Rhinelander, May 18 in Fitchburg and May 24 in Green Bay. For more information on the proposal and hearing times and locations contact Jason Fleener (608) 261-7589 jason.fleener@wisconsin.gov or review the proposal online.

For 2010, 46 DMUs are designated as herd control. Located mainly in the agricultural regions of the state, deer populations in herd control units are estimated to be more than 20 percent above established goals. There is an unlimited supply of antlerless deer harvest permits available for HC units at $2 each. The permits are not unit specific. Hunters can also use the antlerless permit that comes with each archery and gun deer license in any herd control unit. Herd control units will also have an Oct. 14-17 antlerless deer only gun hunt.

There are 22 DMUs designated as Chronic Wasting Disease Management Units in 2010. These units will have unlimited earn-a-buck rules as they have in past seasons and will also be included in the Oct. 14-17 antlerless deer only gun hunt. Earn-a-buck requires hunters to first harvest an antlerless deer before a buck. Unused buck authorizations from the 2009 season can be used to harvest a buck in the 2010 season. Hunters may shoot as many antlerless deer as they wish and will receive a buck authorization for each antlerless deer registered.
Youth gun deer hunt

Youth ages 10-15 with or without a hunter safety certificate will be able to participate in the Oct. 9-10 Youth Deer Hunt in 2010. Youth hunters 10-15 years of age who do not have a hunter safety certificate can hunt with a mentor under the mentored hunting program created in 2009. Youth 12-15 years of age who do have hunter safety certificate must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older during this youth hunt. Youth participating in this hunt will be able to shoot one antlered buck with their gun buck deer carcass tag and additional antlerless deer per antlerless deer carcass tag valid in the DMU where the youth is hunting.

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

ROTHSCHILD, Wi – -(AmmoLand.com)- Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank congratulated and thanked the participants of the first Hunting Heritage Conference who met over the weekend to share ideas about broadening participation in the state’s hunting heritage.

The conference was funded by a grant from the National Shooting Sports Foundation and The Hunting Heritage Partnership. The grant provided funding to cover the complete cost of those attending the two-day conference.

The Department of Natural Resources invited representatives of local and statewide hunting and conservation organizations to the first ever event. About 115 hunting enthusiasts from mentors to safety instructors gathered at the Stoney Creek Inn for the two-day conference devoted to exploring ideas about building the state’s hunting future for generations to come.

“Wisconsin is a great hunting state with a wide range of hunting opportunities for both novice and experienced hunters,” Frank said. “But we cannot take our hunting tradition for granted. We are looking to build on our past efforts to work with young people as well as adults who have never had an opportunity to hunt. If we want our next generation not only to enjoy our natural resources but to become future conservationists, we need to think creatively and build upon our past efforts.”

The Feb. 19-20 conference focused on educating and training experienced mentors in passing on their knowledge to the next generation of Wisconsin hunters through the DNR’s popular Learn to Hunt program. DNR records show that in 2009, the Learn to Hunt Program had more than 1,500 participants in the turkey, pheasant, deer and waterfowl programs.

“We are very proud of our Learn to Hunt program, which has had the strong support of local conservation groups and volunteer instructors who work with our staff,” Frank said. “We are looking for ways to build mentor participation in this program – and expand it to more youth – boys and girls – from all ethnic backgrounds.”

The conference also featured researchers from the University of Wisconsin-System who shared their research designs on recruiting hunters and testing the effects of social networking and new media technologies to promote hunting.

“The main goals of the conference were to build community around the issue of hunter recruitment and retention; to facilitate networking between organizations; and, to share best practices for hosting successful Learn to Hunt Programs,” DNR Deputy Conservation Warden Benjamin Mott said of the event he helped coordinate. “And another main goal was to make sure clubs understand how they can receive reimbursement for conducting Learn to Hunt Programs.”

The Learn to Hunt Program is designed to help inexperienced hunters, both youth and adults, have a high quality, safe, and rewarding first-time hunt under the guidance of qualified Hunter Education instructors and hunting mentors. Participants receive both classroom and field instruction prior to an actual hunt.

Frank said the DNR hopes to make the conference an annual event.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Benjamin Mott, Deputy Conservation Warden, Madison: (608) 444-1244; Todd Schaller, Conservation Warden, Madison: (608) 267-2774

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

OLYMPIA, WA --(AmmoLand.com)- The second phase of a major land exchange with the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) won approval by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission during a public meeting here Jan. 7-9.

In addition, the commission approved raffles for five new multi-species hunting permits and received briefings on management options for upcoming fisheries for sturgeon and spring chinook on the Columbia River.

The commission, which sets policy for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), approved the land exchange after years of inter-agency discussions and an extensive public-comment process.

By its action, the commission authorized WDFW to transfer 12,424 acres of high-elevation forestland in eastern Washington to WDNR in exchange for 25,849 acres of shrub-steppe and low-elevation forestlands.

The landmark agreement would affect properties held by both agencies in Kittitas, Okanogan, Klickitat, Yakima and Asotin counties.

WDFW Director Phil Anderson called the commission’s action an “historic moment” that sets the stage for improved management of public lands by both agencies.

“This action will allow both agencies to consolidate their holdings and manage public lands more efficiently and effectively,” Anderson said. “It’s a major step forward in correcting the checkerboard pattern of ownership that has complicated management of public wildlife lands since the early days of statehood.”

The land exchange is specifically designed to:

• Protect and enhance habitat for species ranging from elk and mule deer to sage grouse and pileated woodpecker.
• Maintain public access and recreation on public lands.
• Generate revenue for WDNR trust beneficiaries, such as public schools.

A copy of the joint Environmental Assessment, which includes a description and maps of the land exchange, is available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/hab/sepa/sepa.htm .

Under the first phase of the land exchange, approved last August, the commission authorized WDFW to transfer a total of 9,000 acres in Thurston, Kittitas and Okanogan counties to WDNR in exchange for 5,100 acres to be managed as wildlife habitat. Both phases of the land transfer are expected to be completed this year.

In other action, the commission authorized WDFW to initiate raffles for five new multi-species permits to help generate revenue for managing big-game species. Winners of the new raffles – four regional, one statewide – will be allowed to harvest three to five animals in a given year.

Depending on the region, game species available under the new permits includes deer, elk, black bear, turkey, cougar and California bighorn sheep. WDFW will publicize details on the new raffle this spring.

In addition, WDFW staff briefed the commission on management options for several upcoming fishing-season negotiations:

• Columbia River white sturgeon: Surveys indicate white sturgeon are declining in number, prompting fishery managers in Washington and Oregon to consider reducing this year’s harvest by 20 percent to 50 percent. WDFW is seeking the commission’s guidance in developing new management measures prior to meeting next month with Oregon fishery managers to set 2010 fishing seasons.
• Columbia River spring chinook: Although this year’s upriver spring chinook run is expected to be one of the strongest on record, a recent negotiated agreement requires the states of Washington and Oregon to take additional steps to ensure that catch-balancing objectives for tribal and non-tribal fisheries are achieved. WDFW fishery managers advised the commission they plan to hold back at least 30 percent of the states’ catch allocation as a “buffer” until there is strong evidence the upriver spring chinook run will meet expectations.
• North of Falcon salmon policy: In March and early April, state, tribal and federal fisheries managers will meet to establish salmon seasons for Puget Sound, the Columbia River and Washington coastal areas. At the commission meeting, WDFW staff reviewed the commission’s existing North of Falcon policy, which will guide the department’s position on conservation and allocation issues during the upcoming season-setting process.

For more information about future commission meetings, visit WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/ .

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- Wisconsin has been enjoying some very good winter recreation conditions in the new year, now that most lakes have finally frozen over, and snow cover ranges from half a foot to more than a foot and half across most of the state. More snow was falling Thursday, with the southern half of the state expected to get from 3 to 9 inches or more in some locations.

Snowmobile trails were open in all but one county of the state as of Jan. 7, according to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism snow conditions report, with conditions ranging from excellent in the north to fair through central Wisconsin. Conditions were expected to improve with this week’s snowfall. Cross-country ski trails are open and have been groomed in almost all state parks and forests, with conditions generally ranging from good to excellent. Most parks reporting this week indicated they planned to re-groom trails following this week’s snow, so conditions should be excellent across most of the state this weekend.

The recent wave of sub-zero temperatures increased ice thickness and frozen formerly slushy areas on many lakes. However, thickness still varies from lake to lake. Dane County officials had to rescue several individuals who fell through the recently froze surface of Lake Mendota this week. Anyone venturing out on the frozen waterways for the first time should check with a local bait shop or other knowledgeable source on ice conditions. Snowmobiles and ATVs that used the lakes when they were slushy made frozen ruts and ridges. Those frozen rutted areas are now causing difficult travel in some areas. There also continues to be some slush under the snow on northern lakes in spots. The variable weather conditions in the last two weeks have made for some erratic ice fishing. In the north, walleye have been the main species of interest and most anglers report sporadic action. The best action has come on cloudy days, when temperatures reach into the 20s. Panfish anglers have seen some fair action in the north, and some good panfish action has been reported on southern lakes. Along Lake Michigan, the McKinley Marina in Milwaukee and the Racine and Kenosha harbors have frozen over, and anglers have been taking some browns and rainbows through the ice. Fast moving stretches of the Root River are still open and good numbers of browns and rainbows are still holding in the deeper pools.

The Mississippi River stage was at 7.6 feet at Prairie du Chien this week, where the main channel has frozen over, but travel on it is not recommended. Ice fishing activity has been very spotty, with some of the back water areas seeing some bluegill action.

Regular bird sightings include gold and purple finches, chickadees, nuthatches, juncos, tufted titmice, blue jays, cardinals, mourning doves, and a variety of woodpeckers. Eagles are congregating along both the lower Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. Spotters counted 98 eagles below the Prairie du Sac dam this week.

And a reminder that candlelight ski events have begun at state parks and forests. Cold temperatures have kept numbers down a bit, and frigid temperatures forecast for this Saturday have already caused the cancellation of an event scheduled at Lake Kegonsa State Park, so remember to always call ahead to confirm events will be held.

Click to view the complete report along with a list of currently scheduled events.

About:
The Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report is issued each Thursday to media outlets, conservation and environmental organizations, and county, state and federal agencies. It is available to the general public by subscription to an email distribution list and on the Wisconsin DNR World Wide Web site listed above. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in employment, programs, services and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. This document is available in alternative format upon request.

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

OLYMPIA, WA --(AmmoLand.com)- The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is scheduled to accept public testimony and take action on a proposal to exchange additional land in eastern Washington with the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) at a meeting Jan. 7-9 in Olympia.

In addition, the commission is scheduled to accept public testimony on proposed updates to the Columbia River spring chinook policy and the Columbia River sturgeon management policy.

The commission, a nine-member citizen panel appointed by the governor to set policy for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), will convene for its regular meeting Jan. 8-9 in Room 172 of the Natural Resources Building, 1111 Washington St. S.E. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. both days.

Prior to that meeting, the commission will conduct a half-day work session Jan. 7 on policy governance and budget preparation. The work session is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. in Room 175 in the Natural Resources Building.

During the Jan. 8-9 meeting, the commission will consider approving the second phase of a major land exchange proposed by WDFW and WDNR. Under the proposal, WDFW would acquire approximately 25,849 acres of shrub-steppe and lower-elevation forest habitats, while WDNR would acquire approximately 12,424 acres of higher elevation forest habitat.

The proposed exchange – which would affect properties in Kittitas, Okanogan, Klickitat, Yakima, Asotin and Chelan counties – is designed to consolidate both departments’ lands and allow for more effective management of properties. The primary benefits of the exchange would:

Protect and enhance habitat for big-game species (e.g. elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep), shrub-steppe species (e.g. sage grouse, sage thrasher, sage sparrow, Brewer’s sparrow), and forest species (e.g. goshawk, pileated woodpecker, white headed woodpecker, forest grouse).

Maintain public access and recreation on public lands.

Generate revenue for WDNR trust beneficiaries, such as public schools.

WDFW and other agencies involved in the proposed land exchange accepted public comments through Dec. 16 on a joint Environmental Assessment document that addresses both state and federal regulatory requirements. A copy of the joint Environmental Assessment, which includes a description and maps of the proposed land exchange, is available on the WDFW website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/hab/sepa/sepa.htm .

In the first phase of the land exchange, finalized in August, WDFW acquired 9,000 acres and WDNR acquired 5,100 acres.

In other business at its January meeting, the commission is scheduled to consider a proposal to offer hunters five additional multi-species raffle permits and housekeeping changes to the Deleterious Exotic and Live Wildlife regulations.

The commission also is scheduled to hear a briefing on the North of Falcon policy. The two-year policy, which doesn’t expire until the end of 2010, provides direction to fishery managers in defining annual salmon fishing seasons in Washington’s waters.

In addition, WDFW Director Phil Anderson will present to the commission options for alternative public-input processes on two sportfishing rule proposals that have drawn considerable interest. Anderson is scheduled to present those alternatives Jan. 8 during the Director’s Report.

The two alternative processes would address a proposal that would ban the use of small lead fishing tackle at 13 lakes in Washington, and a proposal that would close fishing for bottomfish and halibut off the northwestern tip of the Olympic Peninsula.

Commissioners also are scheduled to attend an annual meeting with Gov. Chris Gregoire Jan. 8 at 1 p.m. in the Governor’s office.

For more information about future commission meetings, visit WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/meetings.html

Whitetails Unlimited

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- Whitetails Unlimited, Wisconsin’s largest organization of deer hunters, is urging the Wisconsin legislature to override Governor Doyle’s veto of Assembly Bill 138, which would make the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board responsible for appointing the DNR secretary. Doyle’s veto retains the practice of making the DNR secretary a political appointment.

“We are urging all sportsmen and women in Wisconsin to contact their state senators and representatives and let them know that they want the DNR secretary to be appointed by the NRB board, and to remove this important appointment from the political arena,” said WTU President Jeff Schinkten. “Governor Doyle’s stated position for 14 years, long before he became governor, was that the DNR secretary should be selected by the Natural Resources Board, and we’re disappointed that when he had the chance to make this happen he inexplicably does an about-face.”

“The more we can remove the DNR from politics, the better off the state will be. The management of natural resources needs long-term vision. The problem is that politics has a very short-term attention span,” said Schinkten.

“Whitetails Unlimited does not have a history of becoming involved in specific legislative proposals, but this is a different matter. For 67 years the Wisconsin DNR secretary was selected by the Natural Resources Board, and this bill returns to that system. This is a structural change that makes the DNR secretary more accountable to the citizens of Wisconsin, rather that a political appointment loyal to whomever the current Governor happens to be,” said Schinkten.

“We have a window of opportunity to make a real worthwhile change,” said Schinkten, “but there is no time to waste.” Schinkten urges Wisconsin residents concerned about this issue to contact their members of the Assembly and Senate, and let them know their feelings in a short, polite, direct message. “Just tell them that you want them to override the Governor’s veto of Assembly Bill 138, and leave your name and address so they know you are one of their constituents,” said Schinkten.

Wisconsin residents can find contact information for their representatives on the Legislature’s web page, www.legis.state.wi.us.

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

Wisconsin DNR

BABCOCK, WI --(AmmoLand.com)- The Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center and Timber Wolf Information Network are co-sponsoring the first of two Timber Wolf Ecology Clinics on Saturday and Sunday, January 23-24, 2010 from 9 a.m. Saturday to noon on Sunday. Because of its popularity, this same workshop is also available February 20 and 21.

Area biologists and volunteers from Timber wolf Information Network have teamed up to provide instruction on aspects of wolf ecology, including status, population biology and field study techniques. Saturday afternoon will be spent outdoors exploring wolf habitat.

Registration is limited to 25 people ages 12 and up on a first-come, first-served basis. Register by mailing in $75 per person by Jan. 13, 2010. Be sure to indicate which dates when registering. This fee includes instructional fees, transportation on Saturday afternoon, Saturday supper and Sunday lunch, and for dorm use.

Participants may stay in the center’s dorm on Friday evening for a donation of $15 per person. Checks should be made out to DNR-Skills Center. Include the name of each participant and the address, e-mail address and daytime phone number of one person in each party. Send your registration fee to: Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, Box 156, Babcock, WI 54413.

The Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center is located 20 miles west of Wisconsin Rapids on County Highway X, 1 mile north of Highway 80 near Babcock, Wisconsin on the 9,000 acre Department of Natural Resources Sandhill Wildlife Area.

For More Information Contact: Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center (715) 884-6333

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Of the hunters hitting the woods on Saturday:

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

However, the weather improved later in the day.

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

License Sales

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI – Wisconsin’s 600,000 deer hunters provide land managers and law enforcement officials with something no amount of survey or police work can replace, more than a million additional eyes pushing out into remote areas of the state.

In recent months, law enforcement officials have cleaned up marijuana growing areas or drug making operations hidden in several remote areas on public lands across the state. Some of these illegal activities were discovered and reported by hunters.

“Hunters should be alert, and if they see something that doesn’t look right, they should leave the area the way they came in, record their observations and report the find to local law enforcement authorities,” said Randy Stark, chief conservation warden for the Department of Natural Resources.

Some things to look for include signs of summer habitation such as huts, tents or other makeshift structures; equipment; watering jugs; chemical containers; or signs of disturbed vegetation including abnormal cuttings or clearing of small areas.

If problems are found on private land, notify local law enforcement authorities. If hunters are on public land, “We operate a 24/7 confidential tip line for reporting suspected or observed illegal activity. The number is easy to remember, 1-800-tip-wdnr (1-800-847-9367 or cell #367),” Stark says.

“Under no circumstances should anyone put themselves in danger in a suspected illegal situation,” adds Stark. “First leave the way you came in the area and then record any easily obtainable information that you observed such as vehicle descriptions, license or registration numbers from vehicles, GPS coordinates if you have a unit with you and back tag numbers if a person is wearing one. It is not recommended that you make contact with people who you believe are violating the law, instead report what you observed to law enforcement authorities.“

DNR works closely with local authorities to keep drugs and illegal activities off our state’s recreational lands to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor recreation.

“Our public lands are heavily used, and we are grateful that law abiding citizens care enough about their public lands to be aware and report problems,” says Stark. “We want everyone to be safe and enjoy Wisconsin’s outdoors and traditions, and we want to work with the public to ensure that public lands are used for their intended purpose.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Engfer – Conservation Warden, (608) 266-0859

Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin - -(AmmoLand.com)- The white-tailed deer rut, or mating season, continues to be going on strong across the state with many reports of bucks being active throughout the day.

Archers are reporting seeing some very nice buck deer, and there have been several recent reports of record or near record bucks being taken. Leaf drop is now nearly complete statewide, so visibility has increased greatly.

An albino deer that escaped from a game farm in Winnebago County was recently shot with state approval, because it was an escaped captive deer. Wild albino deer are protected species in Wisconsin.

Albino deer
An albino deer that escaped from a game farm in Winnebago County was recently shot with state approval, because it was an escaped captive deer. Wild albino deer are protected species in Wisconsin.

An albino buck that escaped from a Winnebago County game farm has been shot with state approval because it had escaped from a game farm and needed to be tested for chronic wasting disease, but there are other reports of albino deer in that area and hunters are reminded that wild albino deer are protected species. Game farm deer are marked either by ear tags or bands.

Hunting has pretty much replaced fishing as the main form of outdoor recreation in the Northwoods. Inland water temperatures have been near the low 40s on northern lakes with the temperatures slowly decreasing and ponds and bays continuing their trend toward ice up; however, warmer temperatures this past week are slowing this process considerably.

Die-hard musky anglers have mostly been dragging suckers around and action has been fair. This is generally known as trophy time for musky, but there have been no recent reports of any exceptionally large fish. Walleye fishing has become very slow and most anglers have winterized their boats and just waiting for first ice to begin trying their luck again. There has been a large influx of whitefish into the Lower Menominee River at Marinette.

Fishing on Lake Winnebago has been slow, and there have been some large numbers of dead gizzard shad in the bays due to falling water temperatures. The Winnebago system is at the northern most range of their habitat, so many of the fish become stressed and die off in colder temperatures.

Lake Michigan anglers have been catching rainbow and brown trout and coho salmon on both spawn and crank baits in harbors. Fair numbers of coho, browns, and steelhead are also still being caught on the Sheboygan River and Sauk Creek. Some coho have also been caught in the Milwaukee River and steelhead have been holding in the deeper pools on the Root River.

Waterfowl reports improved this past week with greater numbers of migrating birds now in the state. This week’s warm temperatures will more than likely keep these birds here for a while.

Grouse have been receiving some attention but with the deer about in full rut right now, a lot of bow hunters have really been targeting the woods. Turkeys are not yet exhibiting winter flocking behavior and there are good numbers being observed.

There have been reports of ducks and coots dying again this year in sizable numbers along the Mississippi River. The die-offs are due to infestation by large numbers of flukes they acquired by eating exotic snails. Dogs, eagles, people and other animals are in no danger from the flukes. Tundra swan numbers have increased greatly along the Mississippi and will continue to increase until the river freezes over. Bald eagles are now also abundant along the river. Snow buntings have been reported in numerous areas across the state.

Following a fairly dry summer in the north, measurable rain over the last couple months have some northern rivers in better condition for paddling than they have been most of the summer, but paddlers should be prepared for cold water conditions if they venture out. Waterfall viewing should also continue to be great, with the rivers running high.

A three-minute audio version of this report can be heard by calling (608) 266 2277.

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

Wolf and Carnivore Tracker Training sessions are scheduled:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON WI --(AmmoLand.com)- One Waukesha County man is guilty and another awaiting court action in what the Wisconsin DNR Law Enforcement Division is calling its first arrest based upon a Facebook video of illegal deer shining spotted by an anonymous tipster.

“This was new territory for us. We learned a lot,” Conservation Warden Supervisor Rick Reed said of the case involving a video posted on the popular social networking Web site.

There have been DNR arrest cases built from information found on other Web sites – such as Craig’s List and EBay, Reed said. However, DNR’s first-ever Facebook-based case against Adam Frame, 25, of Mukwonago, and Dustin Porter, 24, of Sullivan, had one strong similarity to the more traditional cases.

“We rely heavily on the public to help us catch violators,” Reed said. “There is simply too much going on throughout the state – and on the Internet – for us to keep up with it on our own.”

This was the case of the alert citizen who spotted the video titled: “Hunting… Muktown style.” Reed said “Muktown” is a joking reference to Frame’s place of residence — Mukwonago. Published reports indicate Frame posted the video of the two allegedly using a personal vehicle’s headlights to shine deer and ultimately take shots. No deer were shot, according to the complaint.

“The tip came in late November or early December in 2008,” Reed said. “It was not until later in the investigation that we learned it actually occurred in 2007.”

Reed credits Conservation Warden Doug Zeihen, who acted as the primary investigator with Reed as secondary, for his skilled work at “piecing the computer evidence together with other known facts.” Gathering evidence from computers in a manner that is acceptable to the courts requires certain parameters, he added.

“Learning the legal aspects through this investigation was new and each site has its own legal setup for subpoenaing information,” Reed said. “There also is a whole set of terminology associated with computers that we are not used to dealing with. Gathering basic information from an Internet site takes more time and additional follow-up to confirm accuracy.

“Computers do provide some evidence that we do not normally have,” Reed said. “The legal system is definitely still adjusting.”

The complaint notes the two men were on their way home from a tavern when the alleged incident occurred in the town of Mukwonago. Reed said due to the timing of the tip and other factors, it was impossible to speculate on the condition of the two men.

On August 14, Frame was found guilty under a plea deal to shining wild animals and possessing a firearm in Waukesha County Circuit Court. Frame was fined $354 to be paid $25 each month beginning in September – or spend 6 days in jail.

The case again Porter is pending in Waukesha County Circuit Court.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Rick Reed – (262) 574-2160 or Joanne Haas – (608) 267-0798

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wisconsin DNR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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