What Direction Will This Blog Take?

I've been doing a lot of thinking about the purpose of this blog.

For a while now, I've been regurgitating news that I thought to be interesting, or maybe even useful.

But it struck me. I'm doing something that others are already doing, and, in fact, they're doing it better. (Look for a post soon on what I believe to be some of the best sources for regular -- daily -- outdoor news on a countrywide scale.)

So, I'm thinking, what can I offer that isn't already out there in several locations?

The quick and dirty answer is my opinion. Nobody else is printing my opinion on things, or sharing with the world news about my successes and failures as an outdoor writer.

That's the direction I'm going to be leaning. Until I get it figured out for sure, I'd expect fewer offerings here than what I've been posting.

OutdoorsVT 4-3-09

DVD features New England’s reptiles, amphibians

The spring peepers are about to begin their peeping and with it comes another spring to Vermont.

The world of reptiles and amphibians don’t often get the attention that other wildlife species garner.

Snakes, frogs and salamanders just aren’t as sexy as deer, turkeys and bears.

Certainly it has something to do with their size and that they aren’t obvious like a deer standing in a field or a moose in a bog.

But, in their own way, amphibians and reptiles are fascinating critters and worthy of study and appreciation.

And, now is the time to learn more about these animals and their habitats.

If the peepers haven’t already started their serenade, they will soon in a vernal pool near you.

And while many species of amphibians and reptiles may be abundant in places, others are nearly impossible to find unless you know exactly where and when to look. Because most of us aren’t herpetologists, most of us don’t know when or where that is.

A newly released interactive DVD will help.

“Rattlers, Peepers & Snappers,” is the result of a collaboration between wildlife videographer and editor Vince Franke and Jim Andrews of Middlebury College.

The DVD was four years in the making as Franke videoed all over New England when time allowed in between his other projects and when the various species were active.

Now complete, the DVD includes three hours of video coverage of all 52 breeding species of amphibians and reptiles in New England.

While aimed at resource professionals, naturalists, teachers and students, the DVD would be of interest to anybody who appreciates wild critters, their habitat and the challenges biologists face in protecting sensitive species.

Franke said one of the keys to the production was the knowledge of Andrews, who has been the driving force behind the Vermont Reptile and Amphibian Atlas at Middlebury College.

“He’s very knowledgeable and he’s focused on educating people on amphibians and reptiles and what we can do to reduce our effects on them,” Franke said.

A one-hour presentation, culled from the three hours of video footage on the DVD, will be aired at 7 p.m. Sunday on Vermont Public Television.


The DVD

This DVD, while not organized just like a traditional paper field guide, supplies much of the same information but with video, interviews and an ease of use that, in some ways, surpass a standard field guide.

Speed is one advantage. If you know what species you’re looking for, you can be watching a video of an expert herpetologist discussing the species within seconds.

You can learn about its distribution, whether it is common or rare, habitat needs, visual identification, and listen to its vocalizations in about the same amount of time it would take to find the species in a guide and start reading.

The program is divided into two sections: one for amphibians and one for reptiles with videos, field adventures, species specific information and videos and quizzes for each.

The camera work is incredible, a result, Franke said, of the expertise of his guides and having a lot of patience at times.

Two Vermont species – the five-lined skink and the timber rattlesnake, both of which are found in Rutland County – are so rare that few have ever seen them.

Alcott Smith led Franke to some timber rattlers, finding some large rattlers and, later, footage of fall babies.

“The most humbling thing about the rattlesnakes is they were just sprawled out sunning in the forests,” Frank said.

The skinks, Franke said, were even more of a challenge because they are hard to find and fast moving when they are found. He said the key was to go to an area where they had been seen before and then waiting for hours.

“The skinks took a while to film,” he said. “I think it’s pretty unique footage. I don’t think there’s much footage out there of five-lined skinks in our area. It’s great to be able to show that to people.”

Because of the way it’s designed, you don’t lose anything by watching the segments out of order allowing the viewer to hit the things most interesting to them or most appropriate to learn about a specific species as needed.


Big honor

Editing the three hours of footage into the one-hour show for VPT this Sunday was difficult, Franke said.

“It was a bit of a challenge but I realized what would work best was to show the field trips,” Frank said.

Even then, there was too much video, so he pruned the field trips, each featuring an expert in the field, down from 15 to nine.

“The field trips allowed people to go along and find out where these critters were and let these experts explain things in their own way,” Franke said.

The DVD has been released to wide acclaim including an honor in an international film festival.

“Rattlers, Peepers & Snappers” will be given an honorable mention for Scientific Content at the 32nd International Wildlife Film Festival on May 9-16.

Franke said it’s quite an honor because the film festival draws entries from the British Broadcasting Corporation, National Geographic, Animal Planet International, and the Nature series on PBS.

“All the big producers are there,” Franke said. “It is nice to get recognized by the scientific community.”

Check this DVD out.

Keeping a kid’s attention in today’s video-game world is difficult. A DVD like this one gives a parent a fighting chance and it will be fun and educational for everyone.

“Rattlers, Peepers & Snappers” is $24.95 and is available from Peregrine Productions at www.rpsdvd.com.

Darren Marcy is a local outdoor enthusiast. His Web site is www.DarrenMarcy.com. E-mail him at darren@darrenmarcy.com.

OutdoorsVT 3-27-09

Happy birthday to OutdoorsVT

It’s been a whole year since I first subjected you to OutdoorsVT.

Can you believe you’ve put up with me for 12 months?

My long-suffering wife sympathizes with you. She can barely put up with me.

Congratulate yourself on your dedication and perseverance.

Whether you actually like reading the dreck I schlep every week or just put up with it, I thank you.

Many writers go through their entire careers thinking so highly of themselves they believe it’s their work that is important and the readers are lucky to read it. But I learned long ago it’s the other way around.

These days we have many, many places to get our news and that applies to outdoor information as well. If you spend a part of your Friday with my ugly mug in front of you, I appreciate that.

But, just like getting drunk at the end of the year and making resolutions about what we’re going to do in the coming 12 months, I like to take a moment and reflect and look forward — just without the headache that follows.

In the last year we’ve gone biking, hiking, boating, camping, skiing, snowshoeing, watched spring babies, chased the fall foliage and reminisced over Bubba, my golden retriever who went to that great trail in the sky.

We’ve built bridges, attended outdoor shindigs, counted birds, promised to follow the Leave No Trace outdoor ethic and celebrated a relatively safe snowmobiling season.

We’ve bought boots and snowshoes and worried about the BPA in our Nalgene and similar plastic bottles.

We’ve competed in the Mount Ascutney Run, went on plenty of runs in Pine Hill Park including the Sunset Series, ridden in the Vermont Lakes Region Cycling Weekend, a variety of triathlons and went on monthly jaunts around the West Rutland Marsh with the Rutland County Audubon birders, and weekly hikes with the Green Mountain Club.

We’ve celebrated Vermont Days, National Trails Day, the Long Trail Festival, Dead Creek Wildlife Day, and Killington’s 50th anniversary.

We even ran for president together under the banner of the Outdoor Party.

It was fun.

The best part is we’re heading into year two and we get to do it all again.

But before we hit the trail, I’d like to know what you think.

I give a rip what you like or don’t like about this column.

What is it that works, or doesn’t work, for you when you read OutdoorsVT?

For example, my wife doesn’t think I’m funny and when I try she thinks I embarrass myself.

Should I leave humor to Leno and Letterman or Colbert and Stewart? What do you think of the where-to-go pieces? More gear? More trails? Book reviews? What would you prefer to see more coverage of?

Too much hiking and not enough biking? Too much gear and not enough deer? Want to read about a new trail, but not about a … a … sorry, can’t do it. I gave up rhyming after “Green Eggs and Ham.”

What columns do you read to the end and which ones do you turn the page without starting? I want to know.

Understand one thing. I reserve the right to ignore anything you have to say. But I can promise I’ll consider all suggestions and criticisms — even those that include profanity and thinly veiled threats.

But at least put your name on your correspondence. I don’t want to have to write back and say:

Dear Youraidiot@yahoo.com,

I’m sorry you think my column is a waste of perfectly good fire starter.

Sorry, I won’t beat my head on the remaining ice at Lake St. Catherine, but I will seriously consider avoiding suggesting that people hang their wooden snowshoes on the wall in the future.

I did not mean to offend both members of the World Association of Snowshoe Travel Elitists.

Thanks for writing,

Darren

That’s a joke. I actually had one very nice gentlemen write to tell me I was all wet in addition to a recent letter to the editor. The end result? I promised to write a piece about wood snowshoes next winter to give them a fair shake.

If that’s not democratic, I don’t know what is.

And before I forget, I think this is an appropriate time and place to apologize to some folks who were inadvertently ignored back in December and January or so. I apparently had problems with my e-mail configuration or something and I didn’t get any e-mail for a period of time.

I didn’t intentionally ignore you and appreciated hearing your comments on various columns. Now that I’ve recovered them I’m slowly catching up with those that are still valid.

So, send in that feedback. E-mail it to the address below, or do it the old-fashioned way by writing to the Rutland Herald, PO Box 668, Rutland, Vt., 05702.

Go crazy. Tell me what you think. Get it off your chest. It’s not every day a writer asks you to criticize him.

Thanks. I look forward to hearing from you.

Except for you, Long Suffering Wife. You get your say at home. Now, let’s hit the trail on the second year.

Darren Marcy is a local outdoor enthusiast. His Web site is www.DarrenMarcy.com. E-mail him at darren@darrenmarcy.com.

OutdoorsVT 3-20-09

A couple of hikes over the last weekend proved that it's not always what you pick up along the way, but what you bring home that matters.

It started with my youngest daughter picking up a handful of deer pellets, and ended 24 hours later with me getting in trouble for bringing home a scat specimen to identify. In between, there was plenty of fun.

Read about the adventure here.

Fla. Outdoor Writer Dies

An outdoor icon in Florida died March 13.

Jerry Hill, an outdoor writer for the Bradenton (Fla.) Herald for 32 years, was hailed as one of the best outdoor scribes in the state of Florida.

It's always sad when one of these old-timers heads off to the great field or stream in the sky.

For more about Jerry Hill, read a story in Saturday's paper, a column carried in Sunday's Herald, followed by an opinion piece a couple days later.

Salem-News.com Adds Outdoor Reporters

Hold the presses and your hat.

In a move that is the complete oppositive of everything going on elsewhere in the world of publishing, Salem-News.com has announced the addition of two outdoor reporters to its publishing efforts.

It may not exactly be the New York Times, but any work for an outdoor writer is to be celebrated.

Longtime Izaac Walton League Leader Dies

Jack Lorenz, the longtime director of the Izaak Walton League, died March 2.

Lorenz became known nationally during his 18 years at the helm of IWL where he developed a code of ethics on outdoor activities and led the group into the forefront of the national environmental debate.

Lorenz was respected in many outdoor circles, bringing together groups often at odds with each other like the Sierra Club and National Rifle Association to achieve common goals.

Paul Hansen, who led the Izaac Walton League from 1995 to 2007 spoke highly of Lorenz.

"He was the nation's spokesman for many years on the ethical management of hunting, angling and off-road vehicle use," Hansen said. "He was one of the nation's most well known and popular environmentalists."

Read about Jack Lorenz in this Washington Post piece.

OutdoorsVT 3-13-09

It's been a safe year on Vermont's snowmobile trails compared to past years.

With an average of 40 to 50 crashes a year and two or three deaths per year, Vermont closing in on the end of the season with only a handful of crashes and a single fatality.

Authorities are hoping the luck will hold as Vermont remains one of the safest states in New England for snowmobiling.

Read about the safe year in Vermont here.

OutdoorsVT 3-6-09

A coalition of 52 conservation and outdoor recreation groups held a press conference earlier this week to call on the federal government to fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund was established in 1965 to help preserve the nation's natural areas, culturally and historically significant landmarks, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

It is currently designed to be funded to the tune of $900 million per year, but only once has it reached its full funding level.

In the last decade, the funding has continually fallen until, in the 2008 fiscal year, only $155 million went into the fund.

More than $17 billion of the funding has been diverted from land conservation for other governmental uses.

It's no wonder there is such a backlog of needs and a lack of funds for land acquisition and conservation projects.

Read the column about why I think the LWCF should be fully funded.

Seeking Historical Vermont Hunting & Fishing Photos

I'm looking for historical hunting and fishing photos in Vermont for a book project.

Do you have old hunting or angling photos from Vermont?

Do you have family or friends in Vermont who might?

You could see your family's hunting and fishing photos in a book dedicated to those sports.

Please contact me at: darren@darrenmarcy.com.

Cheney confirmed as museum speaker

So the American Museum of Fly Fishing seems to have finally come clean on its involvement with Dick Cheney as a speaker for a fundraiser.

Cheney will speak at a museum fundraising event, but not at next week's annual dinner. The AMFF Executive Director Cathy Comar said the event will be sometime in the fall and probably in the Washington, D.C., area.

Read about the announcement as reported in the Rutland (Vt.) Herald.

Fly-fishing and conservation writer Ted Williams broke the story, to the best of my knowledge, in January. Since that time, the museum has either been mum or denied it.

The museum has sullied its reputation with the choice of Cheney as a speaker and has looked silly in trying to deny -- poorly at best -- the news along the way.

I expect to write a lot more on this as time permits.

OutdoorsVT 2-27-09

Hunters and anglers pay the lion's share of the way for wildlife conservation, habitat restoration and access to recreation areas through two federal excise tax programs on sporting equipment and supplies.

The Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act and the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act provide millions of dollars to states every year.

Many of the benefits are appreciated by users groups well beyond hunters and anglers yet little money is put forward to help pay the costs.

Read my take on the subject here.

OutdoorsVT 2-20-09

Snowshoeing is growing in popularity every year, which means a lot of people are buying snowshoes.

Snowshoes are made for recreational, backcountry and running uses and each has features that make them slightly different from one another.

I run through the various details about buying snowshoes including sizing, construction and accessories.

Read the full column here.

Jaguar Trapped in Arizona

Sometimes it's better to be lucky than good.

After keeping tabs on a wild jaguar in southeastern Arizona for more than a decade, Arizona Game and Fish officials accidantally capture the big cat Feb. 18 while trying to trap mountain lions and black bears.

During a study to monitor habitat connectivity for cougars and bears, the jaguar was captured southwest of Tuscon, Ariz. It was captured, fitted with a GPS tracking collar and released. The collar will relay the cat's location every three hours allowing biologist to track the animal and learn about it's feeding and traveling habits.

Ironically, more than 10 years ago the department tried to trap a jaguar, after a big cat was accidentally treed and photographed by a mountain lion hunter in 1996. Biologists were unsuccessful but jaguars have been captured on trail cameras many times and tracks found over the last decade.

While not immediately confirmed, the jaguar is believed to be "Macho B" a cat that has been photographed multiple times over the last 13 years.

The trapped cat weighed 118 pounds and appeared to be healthy.

Outdoor Products Recalled

Skis, mountain bike forks and a campstove. All three of these items have been recalled recently after they were found to have dangerous defects.


XBi ALU Skis

About 4,500 pairs of skis made in Italy and distributed by Nordica USA have been recalled because a binding plate can crack or break. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

The skis were sold nationwide from August 2006 to December 2008 and retailed for between $800 and $1,500.

The recall includes Nordica ski models: 2006 MACH3POWER; 2007 DOBSPIT; 2007 MACH3POWER; 2007 MACH3; 2007 MACH2; 2007 HELLCAT; 2007 FIREFOX; 2007 DOBPROSL; 2008 FIREFOX; 2008 DOBPROSL; 2008 DOBPROGS. The skis were sold at ski retailers nationwide from August 2006 through December last year.

Consumers should stop using the skis immediately and return them to the retailer for a free replacement of the binding plate.

For more information: Nordica USA at (800) 892-2668 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST Monday through Friday, info@nordicausa.com, or www.nordicausa.com.


Marzocchi Mountain Bike Forks

Bicycle forks made by Tenneco-Marzocchi of Bologna, Italy, have been recalled because the fork could become compressed and fail to rebound.

There have been eight reported incidents including one that called injuries.

The recalled forks include certain 2008 model year 888RC3 and 888RC3WC suspensions with date codes beginning with T07D07, T07D08 and T07D09. The forks are white or black with red and black artwork on the legs.

The forks sold nationwide from July 2007 to September 2007 for between $1,000 and $1,700.
Consumers should stop using the forks immediately and return them to the dealer for a free repair.

For more information: Marzocchi at (800) 227-5579 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PST Monday through Friday, Techinfo@Marzocchiusa.com, or www.marzocchi.com.


Field & Stream Dual Burner Camp Stoves

About 6,700 dual burner camp stoves sold under the Field & Stream brand at Dick's Sporting Goods have been recalled because of burner problems that could cause higher-than-expected flames unexpected ignition. There have been no reported incidents or injuries.

The stoves carry a style number of #CEH00475 and sold for between $100 and $120.

The stoves should not be used and consumers should contact Dick's Sporting Goods for a free repair kit.

For more information: Dick’s Sporting Goods 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST Monday through Friday (888) 837-1380, CampStove@rankam.com, www.dickssportinggoods.com.

OutdoorsVT 2-13-09

Man, getting old sucks.

On top of it, I've let myself go and now I find myself way out of shape and it's hurting my outdoor pursuits.

This is mostly about weight as I'm in pretty decent shape considering my size. Well, as good a shape as a guy with a gut my size can be in.

It doesn't stop my outdoor pursuits. I still hit the trail, but there's no denying I could go faster and farther if I wasn't lugging along the extra poundage.

I'm getting old. When I was hauling around 225 pounds at 30, it wasn't as big a deal. But I'll be 42 in a month and 225 is a long-gone fond memory.

So I've decided to do something about it.

Follow my efforts to get in shape at www.fitoutdoors.blogspot.com/.


And read the rest of my column about being fat and broke here.


Read all about my upcoming effort to get fit for the outdoors here.

Outdoor Expo Grinds to a Close

Toyota Eastern Fishing & Outdoor Exposition ground to a halt after four days in Worcester, Mass. It was a four-day outdoor smorgasborg offering knowledge, entertainment and good old-fashioned American capitalism.

There were many highlights, but for me, it was the people that will prove to be the highlights over time. I was able to meet and have conversations with some really nice and knowledgeable folks during the two days I was there.

Make yourself a promise of attending next year. Mark your calendar now and start checking the Web site toward the end of 2009 for the 2010 Eastern Fishing & Outdoor Exposition.

Fishing & Outdoor Expo

Man, this thing is everything I hoped it would be.

The Toyota Eastern Fishing & Outdoor Exposition completed its third (of four) day today. It was my first day here and I'm worn out. I'm also buzzing after a day of looking at trophy animals and outdoor gear, watching seminars and talking about hunting, fishing, boating, camping and general outdoor fun all day.

I met a lot of great people and made many great contacts that will be paying off down the road in terms of articles and better knowledge. I already have books in hand for review and a line on another. I've come across a great turkey hunting product I plan on writing about this spring and made contact with a guy making his own fishing lures for a variety of freshwater fish I expect to be hooking up with in the future in some regard.

The great thing is that I only scratched the surface. I have a full day tomorrow still before returning home Monday with a bag full of literature and notes.

Stay tuned.

OutdoorsVT 2-6-09

All over the Green Mountain State, winter events are in full swing.

From winter carnivals and festivals to ice-fishing competitions, snowshoeing and animal tracking.

It's an outdoor paradise here year-round, but the winter activity is quite varied.

So, layer up the clothing, find the hat, gloves, scarf and waterproof boots and hit a few of these events.

Read the column here.

Heading to Worcester, Mass.

As soon as I can get away from the office today (and go home and pack) I'm hitting the road for Worcester, Mass., for the 33rd annual Toyota Eastern Fishing & Outdoor Exposition.

The Worcester show is one of three the group is putting on. Although each has a slightly different focus, they all feature impressive lineups. See www.sportshows.com/ for more about the upcoming show in Suffern, N.Y., March 5-8 as well as the details about this weekend's show. A saltwater show is scheduled for March 20-22 in New Jersey.

This weekend's four-day event is chock full of top-notch seminars, acres of displays, and what sounds like a impressive slate of fun demonstrations.

Some of the outdoor industry's biggest names will be teaching their skills. From the bass-fishing world Kevin Van Dam, Mike Iaconelli and Ish Monroe will be on hand. Greg Ritz, host of Thompson Center Arms Game Trails TV show will talk about hunting white-tailed deer; Shane Benoit, Vermont's own famous trophy whitetail deer hunter; and New England legend Stu Bristol will talk about turkey hunting and using a GPS unit to improve your hunting success.

Among the other events, some of the highlights are easy to pick out in advance. Others will likely be a surprise.

There will also be a 40-foot mobile fish tank that doubles as a water dog jumping and retrieving platform, as well as a display and activities by the Maine Primitive School, dangerous reptiles of the world, a bird of prey display and presentations.

If that's not enough, there will be more than 350 exhibitors displaying their wares, trips, guiding services and others to take in.

Can't wait. I'll let you know how it goes and what I find.

Women Outdoor Media Association launched

A new group has formed aimed at outdoor women communicators and professionals.

The Women's Outdoor Media Association launched Jan. 17 at the National Shooting Sports Foundation's annual Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trades Show in Orlando, Fla.

This is what the group says about itself on its Web site:

"The intention is to complement other media organizations. The difference is that the focus of The WOMA is on what women are doing, and what is being done for them, in the outdoor areas of shooting sports, hunting and fishing."

Involving more women is an important part of growing the ranks of outdoor enthusiasts and only by helping women feel welcome will that happen. Hopefully, this organization will bring more women into the fold, and as a result, their daughters down the road.

Aldo Leopold's Shack Made a Landmark

Aldo Leopold, the father of modern scientific conservation, has had his Wisconsin shack named a National Historic Landmark.

Former Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne made the designation before he left office in December.

Leopold is largely given credit for his contribution to conservation through his leadership and his thoughtful essays in "A Sand County Almanac."

Leopold died at 61 in 1948 just before the book was published.

OutdoorsVT 1-30-09

Vermont's State Parks aren't just warm-weather destinations.


The camping, fishing, hiking, biking and other activities that can be found at Vermont's parks throughout the warm-weather months are well-known among Vermont's outdoor recreation crowd.

But because many of Vermont State Parks are open for winter activities and are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.

Read about the winter fun at Vermont State Parks here.

Good Article on "Critter Groups"

Great Falls (Montana) Tribune Outdoor Editor Michael Babcock has written a great piece on how the economy is affecting outdoor organizations dedicated to specific species.

Babcock writes: "'Critter groups' — species-specific, hunter- and angler-supported foundations that watch out for elk, mule deer, wild sheep, wild trout and others — seem to have weathered the recession well."

Organizations like the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Trout Unlimited, Wild Sheep Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation and Pheasants Forever talk about how they are dealing with members expected to be a little tighter with their purse strings.

Read the article here.

OutdoorsVT 1-23-09

Exploring the backcountry in the middle of winter on a pair of skinny skis can be intimidating for someone not accustomed to venturing out in what can be an unforgiving environment.

If a person gets lost while hiking in the summer, an uncomfortable night in the woods is about the worst that will happen. But in winter, it can be deadly.

With a little knowledge and the right gear, heading into the woods on skis can be a way to escape the stress of life and enjoy the beautiful Vermont backcountry.

Sunday, newcomers to cross-country skiing will have the chance to learn the basics of the sport while experienced skiers can learn additional skills.

The Get Out and Backcountry Ski Festival on Sunday is the work of Bolton Valley Resort and the Catamount Trail Association.

Read about the event here.

TRCP Leader Dies

The chairman of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership has died.

James D. Range, 63, died Jan. 20 after losing a battle to cancer.

Range was widely respected for his dedicated work in fish and wildlife circles. He had worked as an advisor to former Senate Majority Leader Howard Baker who said Range "helped to fashion some of this country's most vital environmental legislation.”

Range was involved with Trout Unlimited, Ducks Unlimited, the Wetlands America Trust, the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, the American Sportfishing Association, the American Bird Conservatory, the Pacific Forest Trust, the Yellowstone Foundation and the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust.

He was also a board member and chair of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, a White House appointee to the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin, the Sportfishing and Boating Partnership Council and the Valles Caldera Trust.

The Department of Interior honored Range with the 2003 Great Blue Heron Award, the highest honor given to an individual.

Also in 2003, he was named the Outdoor Life Magazine Conservationist of the Year and the Norville Prosser Lifetime Achievement Award, which is given by the American Sportfishing Association.

For more details on Range's achievements and life, see the release at the TRCP site here.

OutdoorsVT 1-16-09

Downhill skiing is a thrilling sport that allows a person to pick their type of fun.

There are bumps for those who appreciate the challenge of precision turns and strong thighs, terrifyingly steep drops for the thrill seekers, nearly flat routes for those who are learning their skills but refuse to be relegated to the beginner hills at the bottom, flowing blue runs with rippled corduroy for relaxed cruising, deep powder and even terrain parks.

But one thing all these types of terrain have in common is the need for safety.

Beginning Saturday, ski areas nationwide will be focusing on safety as they participate in National Ski Areas Association's National Safety Week.

Read the rest of the column here.

Article Claims Hunting Results in Smaller Animals

Found this interesting article that seems to claim that trophy hunting -- and hunting in general -- is causing rapid evolution of species resulting in smaller animals with smaller antlers/horns.

It is based on a study that says that hunting trophy animals leaves a disproportionate number of smaller animals to reproduce and is creating an artificial "natural selection" resulting in smaller animals with reduced headgear.

It's an interesting theory, but I can't judge if it is biologically sound science. What do you think?

To read the full story, click here.

OutdoorsVT 1-9-09

A national celebration aimed at getting people out onto the trails on snowshoes and cross-country skis.

The 14th-annual Winter Trails offers people a chance to try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at more than 100 locations across the United States and Canada for free.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are among the fastest growing winter sports. There were 1.4 million snowshoers, a number that has increased 60 percent in the last decade. Cross-country skiers number 2.4 million participants, which is a 21.6 percent increase since 2003-04.

Read more about Winter Trails in my column here.

New World Record Elk

478-5/8

Bull Elk

Utah

A Utah hunter has killed what appears to be a new world record bull elk while on a public-land hunt in south-central Utah.

Denny Austad of Ammon, Idaho, killed the nontypical bull in the Monroe Mountains on Sept. 30.

The bull was confirmed Jan. 2 by the Boone and Crockett Club as measuring 478 5/8 after it was taped by a special judges panel. The elk, which sported a 14x9 rack, gross scored 499 3/8 inches.

The bull was officially recognized after it was measured for a final time and an investigation into the hunt proved the bull met requirements for inclusion into the trophy record book for big-game animals taken with a firearm.

"Through our entry process, signed affidavits and follow-up interviews with the hunter, his guides, and state and federal officials, we were satisfied that this bull was indeed a wild, free-ranging trophy and that the tenets of fair chase were used in the harvest," said Eldon Buckner, chairman of the Club's Records of North American Big Game committee.

Austad had hunted for 13 days before connecting with the trophy, which was called "spider bull" because of its antler configuration.

The old world record for a nontypical elk was 465 2/8 B&C points, but that bull was found dead in British Columbia. The previous largest hunter-killed elk scored 450 6/8 B&C points. That elk was killed in 1998 in Apache County, Ariz., by Alan Hamberlin.

NWTF Founder Dies

The National Wild Turkey Federation has announced the death of Tom Rodgers.

Rodgers, 64, died Dec. 25 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Rodgers is the man who started the NWTF in Fredericksburg, Va., in 1973. He was recently honored with the one-of-a-kind Founder's Award.

"Tom is the reason the Federation is here, working daily to promote wildlife conservation and preserve North America's hunting heritage," said James Earl Kennamer, NWTF chief conservation officer. "The organization is reflecting on its rich history and honoring the man who started it all. He was a great friend personally, a great asset for wildlife and he'll be greatly missed."

NWTF CEO George Thornton said Tom's influence on the conservation industry, wildlife and hunters' rights was immeasurable.

"Without him, the NWTF wouldn't exist, and wild turkeys literally would not be where they are today," Thornton said. "Knowing the man who created the NWTF and recognizing his contributions, which helped make NWTF one of the most dynamic and respected conservation organizations in North America, is truly an honor. "

Today, the NWTF is one of the nation's premier conservation organizations.

OutdoorsVT 1-2-09

Happy New Year!

In the spirit of celebration, which hopefully isn't still pounding between your temples, I propose a belated toast.

Raise your coffee mugs please: To the outdoors, to wild places, and to having smart, ethical outdoor fun while in those wild places.

Read the New Year's column by clicking here.

OutdoorsVT 12-26-08

Growing up, my parents instilled in me an ethic about leaving things as I found them. In fact, we left them better than we found them.

When we were packing away a campsite, my final job was to police the grounds. We picked up everything that didn't belong there — old gum wrappers, cigarette butts, tinfoil used in cooking over a campfire … everything. It didn't matter that we had picked up all our own trash, we took everyone else's with us as well.

Today, the "Leave No Trace" ethic is a strong part of many outdoor enthusiasts bags of tricks. Unfortunately, not everyone follows this thought pattern.

In Vermont, the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation has joined the Green Mountain Club, the Vermont Ski Areas Association and the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers to encourage the Leave No Trace ethic among backcountry enthusiasts.

Read about the initiative here.

OutdoorsVT 12-19-08

Just two days after Christmas, while most people will be tucked away safely in their beds, a group of dedicated bird watchers will be out in the cold on a day that could be, well, for the birds.

The 109th annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count began Dec. 14 and runs through Jan. 5.

Rutland County Audubon's 35th effort will be held Dec. 27, as local bird watchers join their state counterparts and those across the nation in for the longest-running wildlife census conducted.

Read about the annual bird census here.

OutdoorsVT 12-12-08

Killington is celebrating its birthday this weekend, and it's not just any old birthday.

It's the big five-oh.

For 50 years, skiers at Killington have hitched lifts to the top of the mountain and carved their way to the bottom.

Read about the festivities and details about Killington in this column.

OutdoorsVT 12-5-08

It's the holiday season and people are looking for gifts for the outdoor enthusiast on their list.

This list of Christmas ideas isn't the standard list with prices and where to get it.

This is a list of alternative ideas including local organizations memberships, the swag they sale, government agencies and gifts suggestions from those agencies.

Read where you can find innovative Christmas gift ideas here.

OutdoorsVT 11-28-08

With your turkey leftovers consider all the things we have to be thankful for as outdoor enthusiasts.

Much of what we have to be thankful for is here all the time, yet we take it for granted.

The list is long and varied.

Read the list here.

OutdoorsVT 11-21-08

There are many things to do in the area these days.

So, just because warm-weather fun has waned and winter hasn't quite arrived, take a look at a few local offerings to fill your time.

Read the roundup of events here.

Ghost Mountain Lion Seen in Mass.

In another case of people being told they didn't see what they thought they saw, several people in the town of Shirley, Mass., are being told they haven't seen a mountain lion.

This is despite the fact that several residents have seen what has been described as a mountain lion, including the town's public works director and the police chief.

Such stories are relatively common in these parts. Someone says they've seen a mountain lion and then describe the animal they saw as, well, a mountain lion.

But then a government agency steps in and tells everyone to relax, it was likely just a bobcat or another yellow Labrador retriever. -- 7-feet long with a round face and pointed ears.

A 7-foot-long bobcat! A round-faced, pointed-ears Labrador?

The reason the officials always snicker at the idea that someone might have seen a mountain lion is because "nobody has seen a mountain lion" -- at least that can be proven -- in so long most people in New England don't remember what they look like.

There has also not been any proof -- scat, hair, tracks, etc. -- found.

But there have been many mountain lions that have been seen, and evidence has been collected showing that the big cats are on the doorstep.

There weren't any wolves in Massachusetts either, until one was shot and killed by a rancher in March of 2008.

Eventually, someone will see a mountain lion, proof will be obtained, and state officials will believe them.

Or not.

OutdoorsVT 11-14-08

There is no shortage of reasons that hikers hit the trails in the fall.

The mild weather, lack of bugs, fewer people, even better views as the foliage thins and the landscape opens up.

But as is usually the case, for all the positives, there are negatives that have to be overcome in order to hike in the fall — particularly as the season heads downhill toward winter as we are now.

Safety becomes paramount. In addition to being in the backcountry during hunting season, the weather becomes a major concern.

To read about staying safe in the fall woods, read the full article here.

OutdoorsVT 11-7-08

During hunting season, hikers and backpackers need to take extra precautions when venturing into the woods.

While hunters are a safe group in general, there are incidents in which a hunter will misidentify a person as a game animal. The overwhelming number of these events are hunters on hunters.

But any time a hiker can make sure he doesn't look like a game animal, the better it will be for everyone.

Here are some tips for hikers and backpackers to help ensure everyone stays safe during hunting season.

Read the article here.

OutdoorsVT 10-31-08

Nov. 4, we're heading to the polls to choose a new leader for our country. Unfortunately, neither of these men have talked about issues near and dear to the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts across this country. The closest they have come is the clear difference the two have when it comes to gun control.

Fortunately, there is another party -- the Outdoor Party -- organized in the mind of someone tired of the same old tired party politics -- me.

Pull on your hip boots and wade into my final column about the Outdoor Party's run for the highest office in the land.

Read the column here.

OutdoorsVT 10-24-08

Oct. 1, recreation professionals from throughout Vermont gathered at the 65th Annual Governor's Conference on Recreation.

Read about the conference in my column.

OutdoorVT 10-17-08

My ongoing run for president under the banner of the Outdoor Party is still short on endorsements and campaign donations. Still, I continue the campaign to discuss the issues important to outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.

Read about the campaign here.

I'm Writing Another Blog

I launched another blog today.

OutdoorsVT, will be an off-shoot of my weekly column in the Rutland Herald.

Topics will focus largely on Vermont but will expand to include anything of interest to Vermont readers, which includes just about anything related to the outdoors in northern New England.

Check it out and tell me what you think.

You can find the blog at: www.rutlandherald.typepad.com/outdoorsvermont

OutdoorsVT 10-10-08

The Rutland area in Vermont has an outdoor champion in Michael Smith. The dedicated mountain biker and outdoor enthusiast is active in a variety of outdoor recreation planning and volunteer work. His latest undertaking is an incredible bridge in a trail system called Pine Hill Park, for which Smith has designed and built most of the trails as well.

Read about the bridge and Smith's efforts in my column.

OutdoorsVT 10-3-08

Vermont's fall foliage season brings autumn splendor as well as a steady stream of tourists. It's hard to blame them for wanting to come experience what Vermonters enjoy year-round.

Read the column here.

OutdoorsVT 9-26-08

The Dead Creek Wildlife Day is an event worth attending every year in Vermont. This year's wildlife day promises to be as good as always.

Read about the event here.

OutdoorsVT 9-19-08

It looks like the poor economy is helping outdoor retailers. Read about it here in my weekly column.

OutdoorsVT 9-12-08

The Outdoor Party candidate launches his run for the White House in presidential bid.

Read the column.

OutdoorsVT 9-5-08

Run for those who can't in this fundraising run for a good cause.

Read about it here.

OutdoorsVT 8-29-08

Long-time outdoor campanion, Bubba, my golden retriever who accompanied me on hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and photography trips was one of the all-time great dogs.

There are dozens of memories stored away that have Bubba's big goofy face in them.

Bubba died one year ago ending more than a decade of outdoor fun.

Read about how dogs are an important part of the outdoor experience and how Bubba would add to the enjoyment of my outdoor adventures.

Read about Bubba here.

OutdoorsVT 8-22-08

First one to the top wins in this hill-climb running race.

Read about it here.

OutdoorsVT 8-15-08

The Long Trail Festival returns to Rutland offering outdoor fun and education.

Read about the festival.

OutdoorsVT 8-8-08

A gate may be the answer to a long-standing problem for a shelter on the Appalachian Trail.

Read the column.

OutdoorsVT 8-1-08

Training for the grand adventure. Read about how to get ready for the big event.

Read the column.

OutdoorsVT 7-25-08

The Vermont Lakes Region Cycling Weekend is considered the best little bike ride in Vermont.

Read about it here.

OutdoorsVT 7-18-08

A boot is not a boot is not a boot.

This is part one of a two-part series on how to buy hiking boots.

Read the column.

OutdoorsVT 7-11-08

Choosing a pair of hiking boots isn't as simple as buying the cheapest pair that looks cool.

This is part one of a two-part series on how to buy hiking boots.

Read the column.

OutdoorsVT 7-4-08

Trail runners tackle Mount Ascutney's 3.8 miles.

Read about it here.

OutdoorsVT 6-27-08

Taking your kids into the outdoors can instill a life-long love of wild places. It's something that is critical as fewer and fewer people are active in the outdoors.

Read the column.

N.M. Lion Trapped, Killed

The lion believed to have killed a New Mexico man was trapped and killed, according to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.

The lion's body will be sent for a necropsy to confirm if it is the lion that killed Robert Nawojski, 55, who was killed June 17 or 18.

The cat killed June 25 was an average-sized male that weighed about 125. It had four bullet holes in it, consistent with buckshot. A New Mexico Department of Game and Fish conservation officer had shot at the cat with a shotgun June 19 at the scene after the cat wouldn't leave

The lion was caught in a USDA Wildlife Services snare about a half mile from the site where Nawojski was killed. Officers with lion hounds are still searching for a second lion reported to be in the area.

Officials Confirm Lion Killed Man

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has issued a press release confirming that a lion killed the New Mexico man found partially eaten in southwest New Mexico. Read the release here.

An autopsy confirmed that the man died from injuries suffered in a mountain lion attack north of Silver City.

Conservation officers and USDA Wildlife Services agents are using dogs and snares to catch the lion.

Officers found the body of Robert Nawojski, 55, June 20, but believe he was killed late June 17 or early June 18.

Family members said the man liked to shave and bath on a rock ledge about 60 yards from his small trailer. It is believe he was killed just below the ledge, then dragged a short distance, partially eaten and then covered.

State wildlife officials say such attacks are very rare, but could become more common.

"Attacks by wildlife may become more frequent as our growing population expands into the urban-wildland interface," said Rick Winslow, the state's large carnivore biologist. "New Mexico has a healthy population of mountain lions and people who live around them must learn to take precautions and avoid dangerous encounters."

The death is the second in the state's history. An 8-year-old boy was killed while playing in Arroyo Seco in north-central New Mexico in 1974. In that case, the lion was an emaciated female that weighed only 47 pounds when it was later killed by a neighbor.

Cougar Suspected in N.M. Man's Death

The Silver City Sun News is reporting that a N.M. man found partially eaten and buried may have been the victim of a mountain lion.

Robert Nowojski, 55, was found 80 yards from his small trailer home near Silver City in southwest New Mexico.

An autopsy is pending to confirm cause of death.

While police couldn't determine cause of death due to the condition of the body, a state police spokesman said it appears the body had been fed on.

Officers who arrived at the home to check on Nowojski after he was reported missing saw a mountain lion that wouldn't leave. Officers contacted the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and a conservation officer took a shot at the lion with a shotgun. The lion is being tracked by hunters with hounds.

Neighbors in the area reported a problem lion in the area with many dangerous encounters including a bold lion and an encounter during which a lion stalked a couple up their driveway. Other encounters report a lion in backyards and looking in windows of homes.

Read the full story here.

Montana Fishing Guide Killed

A fishing guide was killed in a rafting incident on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River in Montana.

Dave Dedmon, 53, of Corvallis, a former sheriff's deputy, police officer, was apparently scouting the river for an upcoming fishing trip. He owned and operated Montana Flywater Co.

Dedmon and his wife were floating down the river when their raft was sucked into a snag, which unseated the pair and flipped the raft. The couple hung onto the raft before it hit another log. His wife was pulled from the river by some kids, but Dedmon wasn't retrieved from the river until farther downstream.

Despite CPR at the scene and en route to the hospital, Dedmon was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Read the full story here.

OutdoorsVT 6-20-08

Staying hydrated in the outdoors is a matter of planning.

Read the column.

Outdoors 6-13-08

If you find wildlife babies alone, walk away. Here's why.

Read the column.

Boy Lands New KS Record Bass

A 14-year-old Kansas boy has laid claim to the states new largemouth bass record after landing a 11 pounds, 12.8 ounce bucketmouth from a private strip pit in Cherokee County.

Tyson Hallam took the fish during the West Mineral Eagles fishing tournament with a jig and pig combo May 3.

The bass barely topped the old record of 11 pounds, 12 ounces, a fish caught by Kenneth Bingham in 1977

Hallam's bass measured 28 inches in length and had a girth of 19 1/8 inches.

OutdoorsVT 6-6-08

Vermont is offering a weekend of free fun during Vermont Days. See what you and your family can do at state parks, historic sites and more.

Read the column.

NWTF Has Its Leader

The National Wild Turkey Federation named George C. Thornton its chief executive officer June 2.

He will begin his duties immediately.

Thornton is well known throughout the agribusiness community, according to a news release issued by the NWTF. Most recently he was president and CEO of Agriliance, LLC., before retiring in 2007.

Also according to the release, "He is a past director of the Minnesota Zoo, and has served on many civic, industry and company boards including chair of the Chemical Producers and Distributors Association, Crop Life America, The Fertilizer Institute, local Boy Scout councils and church groups. In 2006, George was named Agribusiness leader of the year by the National Agricultural Marketing Association."

"We are thrilled to have George leading this organization," said Jere Peak, NWTF chairman of the board. "His background heading up Agriliance, which became the largest Agricultural products distributor in North America under his leadership, and his commitment to the same conservation principles and hunting heritage values that the NWTF family holds dear, makes him a perfect fit to take us to the next level."

Thornton is a lifelong hunter with a passion for restoring and maintaining wildlife habitat, according to the release.

"As a conservationist and hunter, the NWTF's mission really resonates with me, and I'm committed to working with this team of staff, volunteers and partners to fulfill the organization's goals," Thornton said. "The track record of the NWTF is very impressive. We can build from this foundation of success to find new and exciting ways to enrich the experience of our membership."

Thornton replaces Rob Keck who served as CEO of the NWTF for 27 years before resigning recently following the dismissal of COO Carl Brown who had 28 years with the NWTF, and Dick Rosenlieb who had been with the group for 19 years.

Brown and Rosenlieb have sued the organization claiming they were the victims of an organized smear campaign by members of the board that used lies and defamation to sully their reputations.
Read the news release here.

OutdoorsVT 5-29-08

National Trails Day is coming up and there are several opportunities.

Read about them here.

Guide Accused of Robbing Bank

Boy, this one hit close to home.

I just read about a fishing guide on the San Juan River in New Mexico who has been arrested and charged in connection with a bank robbery in Colorado.

The guide, Jude Duran, lived a few miles from where I used to live and guided on the area's top trout stream. In fact, it's one of the top trout streams in the country.

Not real sure what this is all about, but a story in the Santa Fe New Mexican says Duran, 29, is a well-liked guide who had developed a good following of clients.

Duran is accused of robbing the Vectra Bank in Montrose, Colo., with a handgun.

Read the New Mexican's story here.

OutdoorsVT 5-22-08

There are many camping options around. Here are a few possibilities now that it's time to dust off the tent.

Click Here

Parents Say Boy Attacked by Cougar

A 5-year-old boy was attacked and dragged off a hiking trail in the Sandia Mountains of New Mexico before the boy's father jumped on the animal and scared it off.

Both the boy and the father identified the animal as a mountain lion when showed photos by a New Mexico Department of Game and Fish investigating officer.

The attack happened about 7:30 p.m., May 17. The animal grabbed the boy and dragged him into into the forest. The father, followed the animal into the brush and jumped on it, forcing it to drop the boy.

The boy was airlifted to University of New Mexico Hospital where he was listed in satisfactory condition.

The U.S. Forest Service has closed the Balsam Glade Nature Trail and the Game and Fish has searched the area with tracking dogs without luck.

Read the entire press release from the Game and Fish here.

My Web Site Updated

I am finally getting some work done on my Web site.

You can now find my columns on the Web site at: http://www.darrenmarcy.com/ by clicking on the OutdoorsVT link at the top.

I also added some new clips to those that were already there.

Don't miss the story on trophy trout in Vermont, or the information about two fishing books -- Lou Ureneck's stunning read about a trip to Alaska with his son, as well as John Gierach's latest.

You can still find the OutdoorsVT columns on the Rutland Herald site, but this gives you another option if you're looking for one you missed.

OutdoorsVT 5-15-08

Now that your bike is ready to go, where should you go?

This column will point you toward some of the easier, family friendly rides in central and southern Vermont.

Read about them here.

OutdoorsVT 5-9-08

Ready to get your bike out of the shed or garage and hit the highway or trail now that spring seems to actually be here?

Good, here's what you need to know to get your bike ready.

Read the column here.

OutdoorsVT 5-1-08

There's a nasty chemical called BPA that may, or may not, be entering your body from your hard plastic sports bottle. Sports bottle maker Nalgene has been hit hard by the news. Here's a column about the alleged dangers and the fact that alternatives, including a new bottle by SIGG, are taking off as consumers have demanded something different.

Read all about it by clicking on the link below:

Water bottle wars heat up over BPA

OutdoorsVT 4-24-08

Wearing a personal flotation device could save your life.

It certainly made a big difference for me the time I was tossed into frigid water while on a float trip.

Read about it, here, in the Rutland Herald.

Weekly Outdoor News - 4-20-04

Low numbers of returning wild chinook lead to Chehalis River closure

OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The sport fishery for spring chinook salmon on the Chehalis River will not open as scheduled April 16 due to low numbers of returning fish, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced today.

After analyzing the preseason forecast, fishery managers identified the need to close the Chehalis River fishery from the mouth of the Chehalis River to Porter Bridge and from the Porter Bridge to the high bridge on the Weyerhaeuser 1000 line. The fishery will remain closed for the entire spring and summer season, previously scheduled to be open April 16-July 31.

The preseason forecast shows that approximately 900 spring chinook are headed back to the river, an estimate well below the goal of 1,400 needed for spawning, said Bill Freymond, WDFW regional fish manager.

"From our estimates, the run size is significantly lower than what is required to meet our escapement goal for this year," Freymond said. "It's an unfortunate situation for anglers, but we need to protect salmon."

Freymond said although the season is closed for chinook, a coho-directed fishery is scheduled on the river this fall.


Designated trout and fly-fishing-only ponds open April 26

CONCORD, N.H. -- Fishing in New Hampshire's designated trout ponds and fly-fishing-only ponds opens this year on April 26 (the fourth Saturday in April), offering anglers the chance to experience exciting fishing in some of the Granite State's most scenic surroundings.

These ponds are managed specifically for trout, and fishing is allowed through October 15.

"These trout ponds are often the best waters in a given area for a variety of reasons," said New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Fisheries Biologist Don Miller. "Excellent habitat, low species competition and the fact that these ponds are closed to ice-fishing allow these waters to be managed for the trout fishing enthusiast."

Ponds managed for trout may be stocked with one or more species, including brook, rainbow and/or brown trout, with age classes ranging from "yearlings" (8-12 inches), 2-year-olds (12-15 inches), and 3+ year olds.


Washington's Lowland Lakes Open

Hundreds of lakes are teeming with trout as the state's biggest annual fishing event nears its April 26 opener.

More than 24 million trout will be stocked in lakes and streams throughout the state for this year's fishery, including those planted in waters that opened earlier this spring or are open year-round. Most trout will be stocked before the opening weekend, when nearly 300,000 anglers are expected to cast a line.

"With travel costs up this year, lowland lake fishing is a great recreational opportunity for people looking to stay close to home," said Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Jeff Koenings.

OutdoorsVT 4-17-08

This week's column is about a big annual river festival held on the West River in Jamaica, Vt.

Read about the river festival here.

No Charges to be Filed in Idaho Wolf Killing

No charges will be filed against an Idaho man accused of shooting two wolves after the prosecutor in charge of the case declined to file charges.

The first wolf was shot within sight of the man's home and near his horses. But after that, the man chased the second wolf on a snowmobile where it was killed about a mile away, which seems to be in violation of allowed rules that say a wolf can only be killed if it is actively molesting or threatening.

"In my opinion, there is 'reasonable doubt' whether the wolves were, or were not, molesting livestock or domestic animals," said Karl H. Lewies, Fremont County prosecuting attorney, in a letter to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. "I have determined that no charges will be filed."

The killing of the two male wolves is the first in Idaho since the wolf was removed from the endangered species list March 28.

Utah Big Game Permit Draw News

Applicants for Utah's big-game hunting permits should know by April 30 if they were successful or not. If you don't receive an e-mail or letter by April 30, log on to wildlife.utah.gov to check results or call (800) 221-0659.

If you were not one of the lucky applicants, you can still buy a general bull elk permit, along with any general buck permits not taken in the draw on June 12.

"Some general season buck deer permits for the Northern Region and statewide general archery buck deer permits are usually still available after the draw," said Judi Tutorow, wildlife licensing coordinator for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. "Any permits that aren't taken in the draw will be available beginning June 12."

Tutorow says you probably don't need to buy a permit the first day they go on sale. But she also encourages you not to wait too long. Last year, all of Utah's general archery buck deer permits were gone by July 23.

"Utah big game permits are selling out faster and faster every year," she says. "If you wait too long, they might sell out before you get one."

A total of 12,300 any bull elk unit permits, and 11,000 spike bull elk unit permits, will be available. The DWR does not have a limit on the number of general archery elk permits it can sell.

For more information, call the Utah Wildlife Services Administrative office at (800) 221-0659, the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

No Chronic Wasting Disease in N.H.

Officials with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department said testing done during the 2007 deer hunting season turned up no cases of chronic wasting disease.

A total of 405 tissue samples were tested, according to biologist Kent Gustafson in a news release. Nearly 2,300 deer have been tested in New Hampshire since the program began in 2002 without any positive tests.

CWD is a neurological disorder that is fatal to deer, elk and moose. There is no evidence that humans can be infected with CWD.

Looking For Work?

Saw a "help wanted" ad recently in my mailbox. Looks like a heckuva job. If you have the chops, it's not a bad gig. I'd apply, but I already have a job.


The Company
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a national leader in conservation.

The NWTF is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. With an annual budget exceeding $50 million, the NWTF has approximately 300 employees throughout the United States with almost 200 employed in Edgefield, SC. Since 1985, more than $258 million NWTF and cooperator dollars has been spent on upholding the hunting traditions and conserving wildlife habitat.

The NWTF is a grassroots, nonprofit organization with more than 500,000 members in 50 states, Canada, Mexico and 14 other foreign countries. The NWTF supports scientific wildlife management on public, private and corporate lands as well as hunting as a traditional North American sport.

The Position of CEO
The CEO is the full-time chief administrative official of the NWTF. The CEO shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors and shall report to the President of the NWTF. The CEO shall have responsibility for and control of all employees.

As a chief executive, the CEO shall initiate and participate in forming new policies as they have been approved by the NWTF membership or the Board of Directors. The CEO shall organize, direct and coordinate the programs and activities of the NWTF to assure that the objectives are attained, plans fulfilled, and member needs met. The CEO shall also have other such responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time by the Board of Directors.

Qualified candidates for the CEO should have hands on managerial and administrative executive experience in either public, private or nonprofit organizations. Additionally, qualified candidates must also support the ideals of the organization, which include conservation and the preservation of the hunting tradition.

Demonstrated ability to build relationships with governmental agencies and corporate sponsors is a must for this position. CEO candidates also need to demonstrate an ability to communicate with and inspire staff, sponsors, and the grassroots membership. Innovation and visionary processes that further the goals and mission of the NWTF are also desired.

Applications
To be considered for the CEO of the National Wild Turkey Federation, submit your resume and salary expectation via e-mail to ceosearchcommittee@nwtf.net or via fax 803-637-0034.

Bears Waking, Put Away Feeders

Take down birdfeeders to prevent attracting bears

It's time to take down bird feeders as bears are coming out of hibernation in many places across the country depending on where you live.

As bears wake from their winter slumber and head out in search of food, Mother Nature hasn't always cooperated leaving bears with whatever they can find. Don't let that be your trash, bird feeders, barbecue grill or other human-related attraction that could likely end up with a dead bear.

If you have bears around your home, it's because you live in their world. It's up to you to ensure you are a good neighborhood.

OutdoorsVT 4-10-08

Another column posted on the Rutland Herald.

A collection of things to do this week around southern Vermont.

S.D.: Parents Decide When Kid's Ready to Hunt

Legislation in South Dakota makes it possible for kids 10 years old and older to hunt as part of a mentored hunting program.

“Having youngsters in the field is nothing new in South Dakota,” said Tony Leif, director of the Wildlife Division of the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department. “Many South Dakotans learned about hunting and the outdoors well before they were old enough to hunt.”

The legislation will take effect July 1, allowing kids 10 to 15 years old to hunt in the company of a mentor.

“At Game, Fish and Parks we accept the challenge of implementing this new law,” Leif said. “We also recognize that there’s more going on here than just lowering the age limit for hunting.”

Leif said the law makes it possible for kids to hunt with supervision before they take their hunter safety class, it is the parents who really know when their kids are ready for the responsiblity.

“The regulations will adhere to the letter and intent of the law,” Leif said. “The spirit of the law, however, rests on the responsibility of parents to make an informed decision about whether or not their youngster is ready to safely handle and operate firearms in the field. Just because the law allows them to hunt doesn’t necessarily mean that they should. In some cases it may be best to have the child just walk along with the parent during a regular hunt and start the mentoring process in that fashion.”

• There are many rules pertaining to the mentored hunts, a few of which are.
• Must maintain "immediate physical control" over the youth.
• The mentor accompanying the youth may not carry a firearm.
• A mentor can only accompany one youth at a time.
• A hunting party with a mentored youth in the group is limited to six people.

Colorado Lists Habitat Stamp Fund Projects

The Colorado Division of Wildlife sent out a news release detailing where the state has spent habitat money raised through the Habitat Stamps Program. This is good stuff.


HABITAT STAMP SALES BENEFIT WILDLIFE AND WILDLIFE RECREATION

Outdoor enthusiasts who purchase a Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp are beginning to see a return on their investment. The Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) announced today that more than 19,000 acres have been set aside for wildlife and wildlife-related recreation since the DOW started selling Habitat Stamps two years ago.

"What we have seen so far is just the tip of the iceberg," said Dan Prenzlow, a DOW liaison on the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp Committee. By combining money collected from habitat stamp sales with grants from Great Outdoors Colorado (GoCO) and other sources, the DOW is working on dozens of other projects that could protect up to 65,000 more acres of wildlife habitat in the near future.

Some of the wildlife habitat was purchased by the DOW, but most of it is preserved through permanent conservation easements that protect important winter range and migration corridors for deer and elk. Other acquisitions and easements have set aside critical land for sage grouse and opened up fishing access for anglers.

The habitat stamp program was started in 2006 as a way to preserve and enhance wildlife habitat. Sales averaged $3.5 million in the first two years. That money was used to match a variety of grant programs to leverage more than $38 million for habitat protection efforts in Colorado.

The habitat stamp program is overseen by a nine-member citizen's committee appointed by the Governor. The committee has reviewed dozens of proposals to protect critical wildlife habitat. Each proposal receives a thorough review and is ranked according to its merits. Final approval comes from the Colorado Wildlife Commission.

"The habitat stamp program was set up to benefit the wildlife of Colorado for future generations," said committee chairman Mark Smith of Center, Colo. "Our selection process is designed to protect the greatest number of species possible. As stewards of our resources, the committee's goal is to ensure our grandchildren and their grandchildren will be able to enjoy Colorado's natural resources."

Properties protected though the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program as of April 10, 2008:

• Conejos County: Kendrick Parcel, 200 acres, fee title, in-holding at existing La Jara Creek SWA, big game winter range and trout fishing. $400,000.
• El Paso County: Ramah Reservoir, 158 acres, fee title in-holding at existing SWA, warm-water fishing and waterfowl access. $120,000.
• Grand County: Wolf-Taussig, 3,140-acre easement, big game winter range. $3.5 million.
  Gunnison County: Miller Ranch, 1,604 acres, fee title, big game winter range and migration, Gunnison sage grouse habitat and public access. $6.5 million.
• Lake County: Hardeman Property, 1.25 miles of Arkansas River, perpetual fishing access and bighorn sheep winter range. $99,000.
• Moffat County: Raftopoulos Two Bar Ranch, 3,184-acre easement for big game winter range and greater sage grouse protection, including 2,400 acres hunting access and fishing stream access in the Cold Springs Mountain area. $1.7 million.
• Rio Blanco County: Berryman Ranch, 2,905-acre easement, big game winter range and migration. $2.5 million.
• Rio Blanco County: Lunney Mountain, 2,027-acre easement, big game winter range and sharp-tail grouse habitat. $1 million.
• Rio Blanco County: Wenschoff Ranch, 525-acre easement, big game winter range and migration, greater sage grouse habitat. $1.2 million.
• Routt County: Adobe Ridge, 561-acre easement, big game winter range and migration, sharp-tail grouse habitat. $480,000.
• Routt County: Circle 8 Ranch, 637-acre easement, big game winter range and migration, sharp-tail and greater sage grouse habitat. $472,000.
• Routt County: Wolf Mountain, 2,711-acre easement, big game winter range and migration, sharp-tail and greater sage grouse habitat protection, and trout fishing. $1.75 million.
• San Miguel County: Baker Ranch, 1,249-acre easement, big game winter range and migration, Gunnison sage grouse habitat. $850,000.
• San Miguel County: Elk Creek Ranch, 350 acres, fee title, big game winter range and migration, Gunnison sage grouse habitat. $924,000.

The Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp was created by House Bill 1266 during the 2005 legislative session. The bill authorizes the sale of the stamp from 2006 through 2010, with an option to continue past the 2010 deadline with authorization from the Colorado Legislature.

HB 05-1266 mandates that 60 percent of the money collected must be spent on big game winter range and big game migration corridors. The remaining money can be used on other habitat types critical to wildlife in Colorado, including wetlands, riparian, shortgrass prairie, and forest land projects.

"There are many wildlife species that benefit by protecting big game habitat," said Prenzlow. "Bears, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, hawks, eagles, and a variety of grouse, waterfowl songbirds and other mammal species will benefit from the habitat stamp program. Protecting the land that is used by big game goes well beyond just helping the deer and elk herds in the state."

The habitat stamp costs $5 with the purchase of each hunting or fishing license up to a maximum of $10 per year. People who do not hunt or fish can purchase a stamp for $10.25 which includes the Colorado Search and Rescue fee. Anyone between the ages of 19 - 64 is required to have a valid Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp to enter a DOW managed State Wildlife Area. Habitat stamps can be purchased wherever hunting or fishing licenses are sold, as well as on the DOW's Web site at www.wildlife.state.co.us or by phone at (800) 244-5613.

Lake Powell Water Level Could Be Up 50 Feet

The Associated Press is reporting that snowmelt runoff could raise the water level at Lake Powell by 50 feet.

The water level increase is notable for the lake, which is at about half its potential capacity.

If it rises 50 feet, an important shortcut could be reopened allowing boaters to take advantage of the Castle Rock cut, allowing boats to cut a dozen miles off a trip from Wahweap marina to some of the more popular beaches and Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

A decade-long drought has seen the water level at Lake Powell falling leaving the tell-tale bathtub ring on the sandstone walls of the canyons.

Scientists, however, say one good year of runoff won't erase the drought.

Outdoor News

S.D. nixes longer pheasant season
BROOKINGS, S.D.—Heeding the concerns of landowners and sportsmen’s groups, the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Commission decided against a proposal that would have lengthened the pheasant season to the end of January. The commission took the action at its April meeting in Brookings. The 2008 season will adhere to traditional dates, starting on the third Saturday of October and ending on the first Sunday of January. The commission heard testimony both for and against the proposal at a public hearing in Brookings. The department also received more than 200 e-mail and telephone comments about the proposal.

N.H. donates 550 pounds of meet to needy
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Conservation Officers recently delivered approximately 550 pounds of processed moose and deer meat to the Littleton, N.H., Outreach Office of the Tri-County Community Action Program for distribution to the needy. The donation was the result of efforts by all the Conservation Officers in Fish and Game Law Enforcement District 3, which serves west-central New Hampshire. The donated moose meat and venison was confiscated during the fall 2007 hunting season in situations where moose and deer had been taken illegally. Conservation Officers had the meat butchered, packaged and frozen after it was seized. The pending court cases recently were resolved, allowing the meat to be donated.

Indiana offers apprentice hunting licenses beginning July 1
In an effort to help recruit new hunters, Indiana will allow individuals of any age to go hunting before taking a hunter education class, if they purchase an apprentice hunting license and are accompanied by a licensed adult while hunting. The licenses go on sale for the first time July 1. The initiative, which allows individuals to try hunting to see if it is a sport they wish to pursue without having to first invest a lot of time and money, has been done in other states as part of a nation-wide initiative to recruit new hunters.

Minn. anglers were to receive state record fish awards
Three Minnesota anglers who caught state record fish in 2007 were honored by the Department of Natural Resources April 5 at the 76th annual Northwest Sports Show at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
DNR Commissioner Mark Holsten presented the awards during a ceremony.

And My Wife Thinks Bait is Expensive

The Palm Beach (Fla.) Post is reporting a charter fishing company is offering fishing charters with women in bikinis or topless for an additional charge. At least it was until forced to shut down by the city marina.

Smokin' Em Charters, a Port St. Lucie company, began offering the bikini or topless add-ons in January.

The women stay fully clothed until the boats are 3 miles out and in international waters. There is a strict "no-touching" policy.

The cost for a little skin with your fishing is $100 per bikini, $150 if the bikinis come off. Oh, that's on top of the $1,250 for eight hours of fishing.

The name of the charter boat? I swear I'm not making this up. The 44-foot vessel is dubbed "Trojan."

OutdoorsVT 4-3-08

Another column available on the Rutland Herald's web site.

Pittsford trails offer mud-season alternative.

Two Dead in N.H. Snowmobiling Crash

An 18-year-old and his 8-year-old cousin, both of Ossipee, N.H., were killed in a snowmobile crash April 1, according to a news release issued by the N.H. Department of Fish and Game.

Neither victim was wearing a helmet while riding Corridor 19 -- an old railroad bed trail. The victims were on the last snowmobile in a group of three when the crash occurred. Speed and icy conditions may have contributed to the crash, according to the release, and the investigation is continuing.

NWTF President Sends Message

In Box received the following letter yesterday from the NWTF president:

Dear NWTF Volunteers, National Board Members, Sponsors and Partners,

The last week has been a time of transition for the National Wild Turkey Federation, and we appreciate everyone’s patience during this effort.

As NWTF’s family pulled together to manage this period of change, our brief inward focus allowed speculation to fill the information gap. Thus, we want to take this opportunity to clarify some important points.

First, the NWTF annually undergoes an audit of its financial statements by a certified public accounting firm. The conclusion of the most recent audit, as has been the case with past audits, is the organization’s statements of position and activities received the highest level of opinion possible on their accuracy.

In addition, no allegations of criminal activity have been made.

While the organization has undergone change, it’s still made up of more than a half million of the most passionate and dedicated volunteers as well as our amazingly supportive and generous partners and sponsors. Because of all these wonderful people, we’re an organization that will emerge from this and move forward into an era of conservation success. We hope you’ll take that journey with us.

Respectfully,
Peggy Anne Vallery
NWTF President

NSSF Awards 12 Grants

The National Shooting Sports Foundation gave a total of $724,980 in grants were given to 12 states aimed at hunter requitment and retention.

It's the sixth year for the grants and so far more than $2.8 million have been given.

"These grants were awarded on the strengths of the concepts presented to preserve our hunting traditions, by adding to the ranks of hunters and encouraging current hunters to continue their participation," said Doug Painter, president of NSSF.

The grant recipients are:

• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission--$64,400
• Idaho Department of Fish and Game--$153,000
• Indiana Department of Natural Resources--$62,000
• Maryland Department of Natural Resources--$16,500
• Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks -- #1-$77,755, #2-$45,000
• Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks--$61,700
• Nevada Department of Wildlife--$56,125
• New Hampshire Fish and Game Department--$20,000
• Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation--$21,000
• South Carolina Department of Natural Resources--$92,500
• Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency--$30,000
• Wyoming Game and Fish Department--$25,000

Kansas Forms Sportsmen's Caucus

Kansas became the 35th state to join the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses.

A group of legislators gathered at the Topeka Country Club to form the Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus on March 25.

Members of the caucus will set aside politics and present a unified front by remaining informed and organized on sportsmen's issues.

Several groups got together for the kick-off including the National Rifle Association, the National Wild Turkey Federation, Quail Unlimited and Pheasants Forever.

Nearly 60 people attended including more than 20 policymakers, outdoor writers, outfitters and trappers and others were in attendence

House Majority Leader Ray Merrick and Rep. Gary Hayzlett will serve as co-chairmen.

"It is an honor to serve as chairman of the Kansas Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus," Merrick said. "Hunting and fishing are ingrained in the Kansas lifestyle; it's about time we had a legislative group to work on these issues."

DOW Charges Two with Killing 34 Elk

Two men have been charged in connection with the shooting of at least 34 elk on two Moffat County ranches, according to a news release issued by the Colo. Division of Wildlife.

Rodney Heath Culverwell was charged with 18 counts each of willful destruction of wildlife and illegal possession of wildlife. Kenneth Wolgram was charged with 16 counts each of willful destruction of wildlife and illegal possession of wildlife.

The charges are the result of a 16-week investigation into the shooting of at least 34 elk.

If found guilty, a conviction on the charge of willful destruction carry a sentence of one to two years in prison and a fine of $1,000 - $100,000 per count.

If found guilty of the charge of illegal possession of wildlife, the sentence calls for a fine of $1,000 per count. Both men could also lose their hunting, fishing and trapping privileges in Colorado and 24 other states.

Lion Attack 'Probable but Unconfirmed'

South Dakota officials investigating an alleged mountain lion attack March 1 at Sheridan Lake are listing the incident as "probable but unconfirmed," according to a news release.

Ryan Hughes of Rapid City said he was attacked at about 2:30 p.m. at Sheridan Lake.

S.D. Game, Fish and Parks used tracking dogs but was not able to pick up the scent of the lion and no other evidence was found other than Hughes word and the injuries he suffered.

Without enough substantiating evidence, the report listed the attack has probably having happened, but unconfirmed.

“It was very important to our agency that we go over every avenue for evidence that would firmly substantiate this as a confirmed mountain lion attack,” GFP Regional Supervisor Mike Kintigh said. “I know there has been a great deal of public interest, and this is important information for the work that we do.”

But while there was not enough evidence to substantiate the attack, Kintigh also found no evidence to dispute hughes claim.

“Ryan certainly has wounds to back up his story, and in several visits with him I have no reason to doubt his story,” Kintigh said. “There needs to be a chain of evidence to confirm a mountain lion attack report, and we were not able to put that evidence together.”

Dept. of Interior Announces Federal Grants

Interior Secretary Dick Kempthorne announced March 31 in a news release that nearly $4.5 million in federal grants to support neotropical migratory bird conservation efforts in the United States, Canada, Mexico and man Latin America and Caribbean countries.

"What happens in Central and South America affects the birds that visit our backyards every spring and summer," Kempthorne said in the release. "These grants will support cooperative conservation projects and research to benefit our shared migratory bird resources throughout the hemisphere."

With the grants, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will provide 37 grants to conservation partnerships, which will be matched with more than $15 million for research, monitoring and management programs for migratory bird populations.


There are 341 species of Neotropical migratory birds that breed in the United States and Canada and winter in Latin America including species of plovers, terns, hawks, cranes, warblers and sparrows, according to the release. Many of those birds are in decline and some are protected as threatened or endangered species.