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National Strategy Will Help California Protect Natural Resources

Source: flickr.com via Emily on Pinterest

Interesting? What I think is the most telling aspect of  "climate change" and this article in particular is the highlighted quote "Climate change is very real here". I thought this was about GLOBAL warming effects, not just where Mr. Hunting is standing in California!

A new national strategy will help strengthen California’s ongoing efforts to manage climate change and protect natural resources.

In partnership with State and Tribal agencies, the Obama Administration today released the first nationwide strategy to help public and private decision makers address the impacts that climate change is having on natural resources and the people and economies that depend on them. Developed in response to a request by Congress, the National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy is the product of extensive national dialogue that spanned nearly two years and was shaped by comments from more than 55,000 Americans.

“The specific implications of climate change on fish and wildlife are uncertain and will vary on a regional and state basis,” said Kevin Hunting, Chief Deputy Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). “However, climate change is escalating and accelerating these threats, making it much more difficult and costly for agencies to manage. That’s why the development and release of the National Strategy is important because it serves as a foundation of a science-based and collective nationwide effort and is truly a national strategy – not just a federal strategy.”

The National Strategy provides a roadmap of key steps needed over the next five years to reduce the current and expected impacts of climate change on our natural resources, which include: changing species distributions and migration patterns, the spread of wildlife diseases and invasive species, the inundation of coastal habitats with rising sea levels, changing productivity of our coastal oceans and changes in freshwater availability.

The National Strategy builds upon efforts already under way by federal, state and tribal governments, and other organizations to safeguard fish, wildlife and plants and provides specific voluntary steps that agencies and partners can take in the coming years to reduce costly damages and protect the health of our communities and economy. The strategy does not prescribe any mandatory activities for government or nongovernmental entities, nor suggest any regulatory actions.

In California, significant changes have been measured in its climate such as changes in temperature and precipitation since the late 1800s. The state is experiencing more frequent and larger wildfires. Precipitation is shifting toward more rain and less snow, which has implications for species and habitats as well as for water supplies in its rivers. Climate scientists project that in the coming decades California’s climate will warm even faster, with more frequent and intense heat waves, and further changes to the snowpack.

“Climate change is very real here and we’ve responded,” Hunting said.  “The National Strategy and the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy (CAS)   (www.climatechange.ca.gov/adaptation/strategy/index.html) are examples of how federal and state efforts can work together to address climate change impacts to our fish, wildlife and plants. Addressing climate change is about partnerships at all levels. State fish and wildlife agencies recognize that climate change is a large-scale issue that will require a large-scale response to support robust populations and healthy habitats. We believe that this is the best insurance in an uncertain future.”

The National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy can be found atwww.wildlifeadaptationstrategy.gov.

Contact: Jordan Traverso, CDFW Communications, (916) 654-9937

EPA Survey Finds More Than Half of the Nation’s River and Stream Miles in Poor Condition

It's great I have this to go home to every year, but I wonder how long it will be the case. The largest oil boom in the country has taken over the land and I think photos like this one will be hard to come by without a flare or rig in it. We have to do more to take care of our lands!

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released the results of the first comprehensive survey looking at the health of thousands of stream and river miles across the country, finding that more than half – 55 percent – are in poor condition for aquatic life. 
“The health of our Nation’s rivers, lakes, bays and coastal waters depends on the vast network of streams where they begin, and this new science shows that America’s streams and rivers are under significant pressure,” said Office of Water Acting Assistant Administrator Nancy Stoner. “We must continue to invest in protecting and restoring our nation’s streams and rivers as they are vital sources of our drinking water, provide many recreational opportunities, and play a critical role in the economy.” 
The 2008-2009 National Rivers and Stream Assessment reflects the most recent data available, and is part of EPA’s expanded effort to monitor waterways in the U.S. and gather scientific data on the condition of the Nation’s water resources. 
EPA partners, including states and tribes, collected data from approximately 2,000 sites across the country. EPA, state and university scientists analyzed the data to determine the extent to which rivers and streams support aquatic life, how major stressors may be affecting them and how conditions are changing over time. 
Findings of the assessment include:

- Nitrogen and phosphorus are at excessive levels. Twenty-seven percent of the nation’s rivers and streams have excessive levels of nitrogen, and 40 percent have high levels of phosphorus. Too much nitrogen and phosphorus in the water—known as nutrient pollution—causes significant increases in algae, which harms water quality, food resources and habitats, and decreases the oxygen that fish and other aquatic life need to survive. Nutrient pollution has impacted many streams, rivers, lakes, bays and coastal waters for the past several decades, resulting in serious environmental and human health issues, and impacting the economy.
- Streams and rivers are at an increased risk due to decreased vegetation cover and increased human disturbance. These conditions can cause streams and rivers to be more vulnerable to flooding, erosion, and pollution. Vegetation along rivers and streams slows the flow of rainwater so it does not erode stream banks, removes pollutants carried by rainwater and helps maintain water temperatures that support healthy streams for aquatic life. Approximately 24 percent of the rivers and streams monitored were rated poor due to the loss of healthy vegetative cover.
- Increased bacteria levels. High bacteria levels were found in nine percent of stream and river miles making those waters potentially unsafe for swimming and other recreation. 

- Increased mercury levels. More than 13,000 miles of rivers have fish with mercury levels that may be unsafe for human consumption. For most people, the health risk from mercury by eating fish and shellfish is not a health concern, but some fish and shellfish contain higher levels of mercury that may harm an unborn baby or young child's developing nervous system.

EPA plans to use this new data to inform decision making about addressing critical needs around the country for rivers, streams, and other waterbodies. This comprehensive survey will also help develop improvements to monitoring these rivers and streams across jurisdictional boundaries and enhance the ability of states and tribes to assess and manage water quality to help protect our water, aquatic life, and human health. Results are available for a dozen geographic and ecological regions of the country.
More information: http://www.epa.gov/aquaticsurveys 

Three New Vermont State Record Fish Caught in 2012

Vermont’s lakes and streams continue to produce amazing numbers of big fish year after year. In 2012, three new state records were established for burbot, channel catfish and pumpkinseed sunfish.

In February 2012, Swanton angler Brian LaBelle started the year off by catching a new state record through the ice, an 8.81-pound burbot from Lake Champlain. This is the second year in a row a new state record has been set for this species, and it is a testament to the increasing popularity of this tasty fish.

The burbot is the only freshwater member of the Cod family, and in Vermont they can be found in a number of the deep, cold Northeast Kingdom lakes such as Willoughby and Memphremagog, as well as Lake Champlain. Most anglers target burbot after dark with dead bait set on the bottom in 15 to 30 feet of water in areas adjacent to deeper water. The previous record burbot caught in February 2011 weighed 5 pounds, 10 ounces.

In June 2012, Robert Scott of Poultney was fishing with a live golden shiner off his dock on Lake St. Catherine when he hooked into what proved to be the new state record channel catfish. The big cat measured 41-inches long and weighed a whopping 35 pounds, 15 ounces, besting the previous record by more than a pound.

A month later, another shore angler fishing from a popular location on Lake Bomoseen landed a pumpkinseed sunfish measuring 10.5-inches and weighing 1.25-pounds. Fourteen-year-old Logan Bathalon of Bomoseen was fishing from the Float Bridge with a worm and a bobber when he hooked the giant panfish, which weighed a full quarter pound more than the previous record pumpkinseed. As with LaBelle’s burbot, this was the second year in a row that the pumpkseed record was beaten.

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department fisheries biologist Shawn Good, who coordinates Vermont’s Record Fish Program, says it’s no surprise new records continue to be set every year.

“We’ve had a really good run of record breaking fish catches in Vermont,” said Good, “18 records set since 2001, and eight of them coming since 2010. No other state in the region can boast this many new state record fish over the same time period.”

What is even more encouraging is that 2012’s catches prove anglers don’t need fancy equipment or expensive boats for a chance at catching a state record fish.

“All three state record catches this year were caught either from shore or through the ice,” added Good. “Anglers just need to get outdoors with a rod and reel and spend time fishing. You never know what you’ll catch! It’s a great family activity and a great way for kids to decompress from their busy lives.”

The Vermont State Record Fish Program was established in 1969 and maintains a list of the largest fish caught from Vermont waters in the last 44 years. All records are available to the public on the Fish & Wildlife Department’s website. Records can be searched by waterbody, fish species, or year of entry.

These new state records are a testament to the great quality and diversity of fishing opportunities that are available to anglers in Vermont, so get out there and fish with your family and friends. You never know - you could set the next state record!

For more information on Vermont’s state record fish or to download a record fish entry form, visit http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/Fishing_frmRecords.cfm.

Montana Releases Latest Wolf Numbers, RMEF Maintains Call for Proper Management

MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation maintained its call for the science-based management of wolves as Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) released its 2012 estimate of the state’s wolf population. FWP reports there are a minimum of 625 wolves in Montana, which amounts to a four percent drop since the last count in December 2011 and equates to a wolf population remaining well above the state’s management objective.

“This is a step in the right direction, but it’s a small step,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “What we need to remember is that even though hunters and trappers together had more success this season than in the past, overall wolf numbers remain well above objective. We also need to recognize that this latest calculation is a minimum estimate.”

While the new count is the first decrease since 2004, Montana’s minimum wolf pack and breeding pairs estimates actually increased slightly from 2011. The 2012 calculation does not include the 95 wolves taken by hunters and trappers between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28 of this year. Overall, hunters and trappers harvested 225 wolves during the 2012-2013 season compared to hunters alone who took 128 a year ago. With more than 650 wolves reported by FWP at the end of 2011, population data indicated a harvest of nearly 400 wolves would be required to reduce the minimum population below 500.

"The best news is that hunters and trappers, the core of Montana's wildlife conservation program, are helping us manage Montana’s most recently recovered native species,” said Jeff Hagener, director of FWP.

Hagener also stressed that even with this season’s hunting and trapping success –and 104 depredating wolves removed from the population as a result of more than 70 control actions—Montana's wolf population remains robust.

“There is a ‘sky is falling’ mindset by some who believe wolf management equates to extermination. Nothing is further from the truth. Proper management is mandatory to ensure the future of all wildlife,” added Allen. “We applaud Montana and other states for their ability to manage wolves, just as they do other wildlife, with all the tools in the management tool box.”

"We need to achieve a reduction" Hagener said. "Montana has made room for wolves, we are long past the period of recovering wolves, and we are committed to managing for a recovered population. We also need to remember it is FWP’s responsibility to manage with an eye to how all of our special wild resources affect each other and address issues such as public tolerance, including that of landowners. That is what we continually hear the public asking us to do. FWP is working to manage wolf numbers and will continue to use reasonable tools to maximize harvest opportunities."

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
RMEF is leading a conservation initiative that protected or enhanced habitat on more than 6.2 million acres—an area larger than Yellowstone, Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yosemite and Rocky Mountain national parks combined. RMEF also is a strong voice for hunters in access, wildlife management and conservation policy issues. RMEF members, partners and volunteers, working together as Team Elk, are making a difference all across elk country. Join us at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

Antler Collectors Advised to Avoid Stressing Wildlife

I actually had to read the article to understand how to "stress out" the wildlife. Kinda crazy, but I guess no crazier than the people chasing game for a "fresh shed".

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. - As antler collectors travel the backcountry in search of fresh sheds this coming spring, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds them to avoid stressing wildlife still struggling to survive the cold weather and the lack of forage.

Many collectors use freshly shed antlers to create artwork, furniture and other goods. Although most are responsible, state wildlife officers occasionally receive reports of people on motorized vehicles chasing elk or deer herds in hopes of collecting a fresh pair of antlers dropped by a startled animal.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds the public that harassing wildlife is unethical and illegal and can result in significant fines for violators.

"We caution everyone to be respectful of animals still dealing with tough conditions," said Lyle Sidener, area wildlife manager in Hot Sulphur Springs. "Loud noise, fast moving vehicles and other disruptive human activity is a serious concern because it can stress animals that are trying to conserve energy, leading to higher mortality, especially in fawns and calves."

In some cases, the spooked animals will seek shelter on private land increasing the likelihood of game damage conflicts, or they may run across highways and railroad tracks leading to injuries or death from collisions.

"Hunting for shed antlers is a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors," continued Sidener. "But remember to keep your distance from wildlife and respect closed areas."

Some areas of Colorado close to all human activity during winter and into early spring to protect wildlife, including big game that migrates to lower elevations. In the Gunnison Basin, regulations prohibit antler collecting in game management units 54, 55, 551, 66 and 67, from Jan. 1 through March 14. From March 15 through May 15, shed antler collecting is prohibited from legal sunset until 10 a.m. Violators can be fined by Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers for entering and collecting in closed areas.

Public land management agencies recommend that checking the latest rules and regulations regarding the use of motorized vehicles may prevent costly fines issued by their officers, and local sheriff departments and local law enforcement agencies advise honoring all "No Trespassing" signs to avoid breaking the law.

The growth of antlers is one of nature's most interesting and unique phenomenons. Soon after temperatures warm up in late spring, male deer, elk and moose begin growing a new pair of antlers. During the fall mating season, the bulls and bucks will display their fully-grown racks in an effort to attract females, or use them to joust with other males as they compete for a mate.

After mating season ends and snow and low temperatures move in, the animals focus almost exclusively on finding food and surviving. By the end of winter, when forage becomes especially scarce and the animals rely almost entirely on their fat stores, the bulls and bucks will shed the extra weight of their antlers to conserve energy as they await the spring green-up. Soon after the weather warms, the growth of antlers begins anew.

Some suggestions wildlife managers offer to avoid stressing animals during this time, is too keep your distance and consider searching for shed antlers on foot or horseback instead of a motorized vehicle.

"You can miss much while riding on a fast moving ATV," said Bill de Vergie, area wildlife manager from Meeker. "A slow approach can result in better luck finding antlers, and it will certainly be easier on wildlife."

Many shed antler collectors bring their dogs along, some of which are trained specifically for this purpose. Wildlife managers advise pet owners to keep their dogs under control at all times because in the presence of wildlife, even the most domesticated pets can quickly revert to their primitive instincts and may severely injure deer, elk or other animals. The public is reminded that in Colorado, any law enforcement officer is authorized to take immediate action to stop dogs from attacking wildlife.

Northwest Regional Manager Ron Velarde encourages the public to be ethical when encountering wildlife, and asks the public to do their part to protect one of the state's most valuable natural resources.

"Wildlife belongs to the people of Colorado and the public can certainly help us protect it by calling right away if they see anyone violating wildlife laws," he said.

For more information about shed collecting closures in the Gunnison Basin, Please go to -http://dnr.state.co.us/newsapp/press.asp?pressid=8121
For more information about living with wildlife, please go to -http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/Pages/LivingWith.aspxColorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado's wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more, please visit cpw.state.co.us

With Ammunition Costs Rising, Shooters Reload

With soaring ammunition costs and shortages of cartridges on store shelves making headlines in recent months, many shooters are wondering how they are going to find or afford enough rounds to keep enjoying their sport as much as they always have. For some, the answer—at least a partial one—has been found in reloading their own ammunition. A recent ShooterSurvey.com and HunterSurvey.com poll found that approximately one-in-four respondents—just over 26 percent—said they reload.

Of those who participate in the activity, the top reason cited was to save money, followed closely by wanting to improve accuracy. The chief motivations for reloading are:

• To save money                                                                   86%
• To improve accuracy                                                          72%
• To obtain rounds difficult to find in stores                           34%
• To reduce waste                                                                28%
• Other                                                                               11%

Of those who chose other, the majority wrote in that they reload for fun, relaxation and enjoyment. Respondents could check more than one reason.

“Some people view reloading as a niche activity though these results show, with as many as a quarter of avid shooters assembling their own rounds, it is a popular activity,” says Rob Southwick, president of Southwick Associates, which designs and conducts the surveys at HunterSurvey.com, ShooterSurvey.com andAnglerSurvey.com.

Among the types of ammunition reloaded, rifle leads the way with 79 percent of reloaders putting together those rounds, followed by 60 percent who assemble handgun cartridges and 28 percent loading shotshells. Some people who reload do so with multiple types of ammunition.

To help continually improve, protect and advance angling and other outdoor recreation, all sportsmen and sportswomen are encouraged to participate in the surveys at HunterSurvey.com, ShooterSurvey.com and/orAnglerSurvey.com. Each month, participants who complete the survey are entered into a drawing for one of five $100 gift certificates to the sporting goods retailer of their choice.

About AnglerSurvey.com, HunterSurvey.com and ShooterSurvey.com: Launched in 2006, AnglerSurvey.com, HunterSurvey.com and ShooterSurvey.com help the outdoor equipment industry, government fisheries and wildlife officials and conservation organizations track consumer activities and expenditure trends. Survey results are scientifically analyzed to reflect the attitudes and habits of anglers and hunters across the United States. Follow them on Facebook at http://facebook.com/huntersurvey and http://facebook.com/anglersurvey or on Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/AnglerSurvey and https://twitter.com/#!/HunterSurvey.

Contact Donna@southwickassociates.com

Live Delta Bear Cam Gives Glimpse Inside Den

Between the Bear Cam and Eagle Cam, I pretty sure my productive days at the computer are over!

Mississippi Division of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks, along with MSU wildlife biologists are busy monitoring radio-collared black bears in Mississippi as part of an ongoing research project. Biologists visit the winter dens of each radio-collared bear in order to monitor and replace the collars. Occasionally, newborn bear cubs are discovered. The above photo was taken during their routine den check.

Enjoy LIVE stream from Bolivar County, Mississippi of two newborn cubs found inside the winter den of one of the radio-collared female bears.

California Fish and Wildlife Offering Archery Clinics

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will offer two beginning archery clinics this spring for young archers between the ages of 8 and 17.

The first clinic, the Youth Archery Spring Fling, will be held Saturday, April 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Maya Archery Range, 750 Galleria Blvd. in Roseville (Placer County).

The second clinic, the Mojave Youth Archery Blast, will be held Saturday, June 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mojave Archers Range, 10500 Eaby Road in Phelan (San Bernardino County).

“Archery is a sport that motivates youth to spend time outdoors, and California has some of the best and most scenic outdoor ranges available to the public,” said Lesa Johnston, CDFW’s coordinator for the California National Archery in the Schools Program. “We hope that by offering archery opportunities, youth will be encouraged to explore the possibilities and participate in this lifelong sport.”

Each clinic includes a safety orientation, fundamental archery instruction, an introduction to various types of equipment and plenty of actual target practice. Clinic participants will be supervised by adults as they practice shooting at the outdoor stationary bull’s-eye targets.

Separate instruction will be provided for youth (8-12 years old) and teens (13-17). Participants of both age groups must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The cost is $15 for all ages, and includes the use of the equipment, snacks and lunch. Parents and guardians will also receive a lunch at no additional charge.

CDFW will co-sponsor the clinic with the California Bowmen Hunters and the State Archery Association. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Online registration is available on the CDFW website at www.dfg.ca.gov/yo. For additional information, please call the program coordinator at (916) 322-8933.

Exciting New Program for Louisiana Bass Anglers

"Where’s the best place to fish for bass?" It’s a common question inquiring minds of Louisiana anglers want to know. And the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will soon be able to provide that information through the launch of their new Louisiana Bass Tournament Program, an organized, mutually beneficial method of collecting bass tournament data.

The program compiles input from clubs and tournament trails, and the data is made available to anyone interested in the status of selected bass fisheries in Louisiana.

An annual report will be generated at the end of each year and made available online. Our 2013 report will be available in early 2014. Results will give anglers a good idea of what they can expect when fishing different lakes and a way to see how they stacked up against other anglers.

Anyone who hosts a bass tournament on Louisiana’s waters can participate, and completing the report card takes just a few minutes. Please contact Chase Chatelain at cchatelain@wlf.la.gov or (318) 748-6914 to request a report card or visit http://www.wlf.la.gov/louisiana-bass-tournament-program for more information.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.

For press inquires, contact Ashley Wethey at awethey@wlf.la.gov or (225) 765-2396.

Big Props For My Big Brother

Arvada Fire Department began a new era with the first day of patient transport last week. The celebration included the wetting down of the ambulances, bagpipes, and flag salutes. The history of the fire department came shining through.

About ten years ago, my brother (man hugging his son) decided to follow his dream and go to the fire academy. He was becoming an old man in a sales career and had always talked about being a fireman. Well, my brother not only went, but has proven his worth going above and beyond that of a fireman. Without going over the top, I'm just really proud and love my big brother.

NWTF Convention and Sports Show Sets Record

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — More than 46,000 turkey hunters flocked to Nashville recently for the annual NWTF Convention and Sport Show.

A wave of camouflage and a barrage of turkey calls were seen and heard throughout the weekend as turkey hunters came out in force to celebrate the NWTF's 40th anniversary and support its mission of wildlife conservation and the preservation of our hunting tradition.

Wayne LaPierre, CEO and vice president of the NRA, attended and spoke to a standing-room-only crowd of 600 to respond to President Obama's proposals for new restrictions on lawful gun owners.

The Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center received a big boost, filling more than 6,200 rooms — 200 more than the previous year. New NWTF memberships nearly doubled from the past convention.

The sport show featured a record 721 vendors and included the best and newest hunting gear, home decor, Chevy vehicles, boots, turkey calls, artwork and other products.

This was the NWTF's 37th convention, one of the most heavily attended hunting shows in the country.

The NWTF first visited the Music City in 1986 and has returned 10 times since. The 2014 convention will be Feb. 13 to Feb. 16 at the Gaylord Opryland.

Montana Wolf Hunting and Trapping 2012 Results

State wildlife officials released today the results of the 2012-13 wolf hunting and trapping seasons, which saw a substantial jump in harvest over last year.

The wolf hunting and trapping seasons ended with a total harvest of 225 wolves, 36 percent more than last season. Hunters took 128 wolves and trappers 97. The hunting season ran 181 days from Sept. 1, 2012 through Feb. 28, and the 76-day trapping season opened Dec. 15, 2012 and closed Feb. 28.

"We're generally pleased with these results," said Jeff Hagener, director of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks in Helena. "The overall harvest of 225 wolves this season is higher than last year and reflects the more liberal harvest opportunities that were added for 2012. The effectiveness of hunters and now trappers together continues to grow."

In all, 84 wolves were taken between Sept. 1, 2012 and the end of Montana’s general big game hunting season, which closed Nov. 25, 2012. Sixty four of the 84 wolves taken before November 25 were opportunistically taken by hunters who were in the field hunting other species. The majority of the harvest, however, took place after the general hunting season by hunters and trappers who were exclusively seeking wolves. During Montana’s first wolf hunting season in 2009, the opportunistic harvest was almost 80 percent.

"The best news is that hunters and trappers, the core of Montana's wildlife conservation program, are helping us manage Montana’s most recently recovered native species," Hagener said. "

A total of 18,642 wolf hunting licenses were purchased for the past season—246 by nonresidents. Most successful wolf hunters were Montana residents who harvested 222 wolves.
Additionally, more than 2,500 prospective wolf trappers participated in mandatory educational certification classes held by FWP last fall. About 1,500 of the certified trappers purchased trapping licenses.

Reflecting the increasingly liberal harvest opportunities over the last three wolf hunting seasons, Montana's 2012-13 wolf harvest of 225 wolves was up significantly over the 2009 and 2011 seasons. Court challenges barred Montana's hunting season in 2010.

Hagener stressed that even with this season's hunting and trapping success—and an additional 104 depredating wolves removed from the population as a result of more than 70 control actions—Montana's wolf population remains robust. With more than 650 wolves reported at the end of 2011, when the 2012 season was adopted, population data indicated a harvest of nearly 400 wolves would be required to reduce the minimum population below 500.

"We need to achieve a reduction" Hagener said. "Montana has made room for wolves, we are long past the period of recovering wolves, and we are committed to managing for a recovered population. We also need to remember it is FWP’s responsibility to manage with an eye to how all of our special wild resources affect each other and address issues such as public tolerance, including that of landowners. That is what we continually hear the public asking us to do. FWP is working to manage wolf numbers and will continue to use reasonable tools to maximize harvest opportunities."

Wildlife managers are now compiling Montana’s 2012 wolf population data and FWP’s wolf report will be complete in late March. Montana’s wolf advisory council, which was originally convened in 2006 to assist with the development of Montana’s Wolf Management Plan, will be reconvened following completion of the annual report. The intent, according to Hagener, is to check in with the broad spectrum of interests included on the original council to again discuss issues associated with Montana’s evolving management of wolves.
New Wolf Management Law Adds Management Tools

Hagener noted that FWP sought and received from the 2013 Montana Legislature additional tools to increase the wolf harvest in the future. The wolf management bill—sponsored by State Representatives Kelly Flynn (R-Townsend) and Ted Washburn (R- Bozeman)—won swift and overwhelming bipartisan legislative support and was signed into law on Feb. 13 by Gov. Steve Bullock.

The new law immediately allowed hunters to purchase up to three wolf licenses and lowered the price of a nonresident wolf license from $350 to $50. The new law also allows for wolf hunters to use their license 24 hours after purchase, instead of after a five-day wait; authorizes the use of electronic calls; and removes the requirement for wolf hunters to wear hunter-orange clothing after the general deer and elk hunting seasons have ended.

Montana’s recently passed wolf management legislation allows FWP to close areas near national parks only if established wolf harvest quotas are reached. In signing the legislation, Gov. Bullock asked FWP to ramp up educational efforts aimed at averting the harvest of collared and heavily studied wolves near national parks.

Wolf Harvest Geography
More than half of the total 2012-13 wolf harvest, or about 51 percent, occurred on public lands. The top three counties for wolf harvest were Lincoln with 38, followed by Park with 24, and Missoula with 22. In all, the harvest was well distributed across the areas of Montana inhabited by wolves.

For more information, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov. Click "Montana Wolf Hunt."

Nebraska 2012 Deer Harvest Down

LINCOLN, Neb. - Drought and an outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in 2012 caused significant reductions in whitetail deer populations, permit sales and harvest.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission responded to the outbreak in October by reducing antlerless permit quotas and hunters responded by purchasing fewer permits and harvesting fewer deer.

Deer permit sales in 2012 declined 13 percent to 122,214. Total deer harvest fell 30 percent to 60,548. The whitetail buck harvest fell 29 percent to 26,309; whitetail antlerless harvest dropped 36 percent to 24,974; mule deer buck harvest declined 3 percent to 7,325; and the mule deer antlerless harvest fell 8 percent to 1,940.

"Mule deer were less affected by EHD, but there has been significant mortality due to meningeal worms over the past five years," said Kit Hams, Game and Parks' big game program manager.

Whitetail buck harvest declined 50 percent in the Calamus West and Loup West units in 2012, 35 percent in Calamus East, Elkhorn, Keya Paha, Loup East, Missouri and Wahoo units, and 25 percent in all other units, except the Frenchman, which was down 8 percent. Whitetail buck harvest also decreased on the following permits: Landowner (41 percent), Youth (37 percent), Archery (36 percent) and Muzzleloader (32 percent).

"Statewide mule deer and whitetail populations are similar to population numbers of 10 years ago," Hams said. "Most herds will recover over the next four or five years. Loss of habitat due to drought, increased corn and bean production, and a goal to keep deer populations at a level acceptable to most landowners will likely keep deer numbers well below those seen the past few years."

The Nebraska Game and Parks Board of Commissioners will consider deer and other big game recommendations for 2013 at a meeting March 8 in Kearney. The deer season recommendations are designed to allow for controlled herd growth in most areas of the state. Staff recommends a reduction of approximately 4,000 deer permits and 86,000 bonus antlerless deer tags.

To view the recommendations, visit: http://www.sos.ne.gov/dyindex.html.
Contact: Jerry Kane (402) 471-5008 or jerry.kane@nebraska.gov

Disabled Veterans Receive Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses

The Department of Natural Resources is reminding Michigan resident disabled veteran hunters and anglers that they can obtain free hunting and fishing licenses at their favorite retail agent or online at www.mdnr-elicense.com beginning today. House Bill 5292, signed into law by Gov. Rick Snyder, allows a disabled veteran to obtain any resident hunting or fishing license for which a lottery is not required, free of charge. The veteran will be required to provide proof of eligibility at the time of purchase and carry this proof when using any license obtained under this legislation. The law defines "disabled veteran" as a resident who either: has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service and entitled to veterans' benefits at the 100-percent rate, for a disability other than blindness; or is rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as individually unemployable. Licenses will be available at the agents and online at the same time that the regularly priced items go on sale throughout the year. Some licenses become available for sale later in the year depending on the sporting season openers and leftover or over-the-counter quantities. Legally blind anglers who are not disabled veterans can still receive their fishing licenses at the senior rates. For more information about Michigan hunting and fishing licenses, visit www.mdnr-elicense.com. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Anticipation for Western Canada's Largest Outdoor Show Builds

The 2013 Edmonton Boat and Sportsmen’s Show will kick off at 12:00 noon on Thursday, March 14^th and run through until 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 17^th. Western Canada’s Biggest Outdoor Show takes place at the Expo Centre, Northlands and will feature boats, marine products and accessories valued at over $20 million.
 
This year, the Hunting Seminar Stage and Fishing Presentation Pool will play host to some of the best known outdoorsmen and women in Canada including:
 
Brad Fenson, an avid outdoorsman who travels extensively throughout Canada and the U.S. on various hunting and fishing adventures each year.  Brad’s writing and photographs have appeared in over 65 publications in North America.  He is a regular columnist in Alberta Outdoorsman, Wildfowl, The Outdoor Edge, and Field & Stream magazines.  Field testing rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, archery products, ammunition, optics, and gear has provided him with a broad knowledge base for modern sporting equipment. This helps him learn new techniques and strategies to increase his knowledge as a hunter and angler, which he is then eager to pass on to readers and viewers.
 
Chris David is the host of “The Hunting Chronicles”.  Aside from his TV show, Chris has been an active and successful outfitter in the Hinton area for over 12 years.  He has been fortunate enough to harvest numerous Boone & Crockett and Pope & Young animals.  He volunteers time each summer to teaching kids the basics of archery through his local Fish & Game Association.  Chris was the 2011 Impact Award winner at Wild TV’s Grizzly Awards. It is presented to the person who has made a significant impact in the Canadian Hunting Television Industry.
 
Cody Robbins has been an avid hunter and bow hunter since he was 11 years old.  His interest in cinematography began as a hobby and progressed to new heights when he was asked to film for Jim Shockey’s Hunting Adventures.  Cody has travelled extensively in search of new hunting adventures and guides Moose, Grizzly and Caribou in the Yukon.  Cody’s camera work has netted him some extremely prestigious awards including The Golden Moose Award for “Best Camera Work” and The Outdoor Writers of Canada Aware for “Best Television Show.”  
 
One of Canada’s largest waterfowl outfitters, Claudio Ongaro dedicates much of his time to this endeavor and in the off season, he outfits for trophy White Tail and Mule Deer.  Claudio recently launched his own YouTube Channel “A Guide’s Life”, which portrays life as a guide, bringing viewers the action as it happens.  The videos currently have well over 3.3 million views.  An avid outdoorsman and Shimano Field Staff status holder since 1990, Claudio has competed aggressively as a Walleye tournament angler and holds the 1993 Alberta Top overall Team of the Year.  In recent years he has returned to the tournament circuit finishing 2^nd and 1^st in the 2009 Anglers Cup and the Faust Walleye Tournament respectively. Claudio writes the Seasonal Targets column in Alberta Outdoorsmen Magazine and in 2011 was named one of Cabela’s Pro-Staff.  He feels truly honored and privileged to be a member of this prestigious group of Outdoor Professionals.
 
Richard Mellon’s interest in the outdoors began at an early age.  Growing up in Northern Alberta; where hunting and fishing was a way of life.  He is co-host and Executive Producer of Outdoor Quest TV; Canada’s longest running hunting show, now in its 13^th season. Rich is a well-known firearm and reloading expert with an affinity for long range shooting and accurate rifles are what set him apart.  When he isn’t honing his skills on the range, he is an active Outdoor Writer specializing in guns and ballistics.

One of Canada’s premiere women hunters is Sandi Mellon.  Her love of the outdoors has taken her across North American, New Zealand and Africa.  She spends much of her time promoting women and families in the outdoors.  Sandi’s interests are varied, but her love of outdoor gear has become a personal passion and she taken it upon herself to put them all through their paces.

T.J. Schwanky believes in challenging himself every day and that spirit is exemplified in his hunting and fishing adventures.  He has taken three of North America’s four mountain sheep species and travelled to Asia last year to hunt the king of all sheep, the Marco Polo.  Schwanky is recognized as one of North America’s mountain hunting experts and is obsessed with finding gear that will allow him to push further in search of his next adventure.  T.J. was one of the pioneers on the walleye tournament circuit in Canada and authored the award-winning book, Walleye Across the West.  In addition to his passion for walleye, T.J. is equally at home in the mountains with a fly rod in hand.

Vanessa Harrop is relatively new to hunting, but in eight short years her quest has taken her across North America, Africa, New Zealand and Argentina in search of big game.  Most recently she took a 7 foot Grizzly bear at just 9 yards in the Yukon.  Vanessa is the ultimate gear junky, who is continually searching and testing items to assist in her adventures.  Vanessa is also the editor of “Inside Outdoors” for the Outdoor Writers of Canada.

“Both our Fishing  Presentation Pool and Hunting Seminar Stage will be a bevy of activity throughout the weekend,” says Laurie Paetz, Show Manager, “We have secured an impressive roster of Canadian outdoorsmen and women to conduct seminars on a wide variety of hunting and fishing topics.  Their presentations are sure to be both informative and entertaining.”

The Fishin’ Hole’s 35 Hour Fish-Tacular is a great opportunity to stock up and save on all your outdoor needs for the upcoming season, where many products will be offered at “show special” pricing.

Some of the other features that you should be sure and take in are the Trigger X Kid’s Fishing Pond, The Honda Junior Red Rider Club, the AHEIA hands on displays and simulators, and the Alberta Birds of Prey presentations, and the Retriever Dog Trial demonstrations. The Outdoor Travel and Tourism area is a must stop for anyone who is considering taking a fishing, hunting or outdoor adventure trip.   There is so much to see and do, you will want to spend the whole day at the Show.

This year’s Edmonton Show provides a unique opportunity to meet Willie and Korie Robertson, stars of A&E’s Duck Dynasty on Friday, March 15^th only.  There will be meet and greet sessions along with a question and answer sessions.  In addition to the stars of Duck Dynasty, you can also meet Alex Debogorski from History Channels “Ice Road Truckers” in the Northwest Territories booth and Terry Grant “The Real Mantracker” will be signing his new book “The Ultimate Guide to Tracking Man or Beast” in the AHEIA booth throughout the weekend.

Enter to win the Show’s Grand Prize a 2013 Kawasaki KVF360 ATV valued at $8650, provided by Canadian Kawasaki and Echo Cycle.

For further information including Show hours, ticket prices, features, and a list of exhibitors please visit www.sportshows.ca or become part of the Edmonton Boat and Sportsmen’s Show’s online community by liking us on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/edmontonboatandsportsmensshow?sk=wall. Advance tickets are available at http://www.ticketmaster.ca/Edmonton-Boat-and-Sportsmens-Show-tickets/artist/1536080

DID YOU KNOW:

As a nonprofit Corporation, Canadian National Sportsmen’s Shows is committed to conserving Canada’s Great Outdoors and instilling Canadian youth with an appreciation for nature and outdoor activity.  CNSS uses the proceeds from these Shows to support and promote outdoor campaigns in Canada.  Since the first Show in 1948, more than $32,000,000.00 has been donated.

For Further Information Contact:
Show Manager
Laurie Paetz                                                                                                                     
Canadian National Sportsmen’s Shows                                                                
paetz@sportshows.ca                                                                                                 
Office:  (403) 245-9008                                                                                                 
Cell:  (403) 888-6583
Show Publicist
Jackie Jackson
jjregency@shaw.ca
Office:  (403) 238-3309
Cell:  (403) 614-6697