Arkansas Out-of-Doors Jan-Feb 2011

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Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 1

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E A R K A N S A S W I L D L I F E F E D E R AT I O N • A F F I L I AT E D W I T H T H E N AT I O N A L W I L D L I F E F E D E R AT I O N

VOL 39

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Permit 128 Russellville, Ark. 72801

NO 1

Celebrating 75 Years of Protecting Arkansas' Fish, Wildlife and Natural Resources

2 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

75 Years of Protecting Fish, Wildlife and Our Natural Resources

Arkansas Wildlife Federation is celebrating its 75th year of operations. AWF has come a long way since 1936, the year sportsmen decided to get more involved in our fish, wildlife and natural resources.

AWF has been so involved in so many projects locally and nationally. I would like to have a list of things AWF has done over the years, but that would take a lot of work listing everything. Also it would probably fill up this whole paper or more.

So I would like to share with you all some of what we are doing today. AWF and several other organizations are involved in the Bearcat Hollow Project in the Ozark National Forest. AWF signed a stewardship agreement with the U S Forest Service to

work on 23 acres of habitat for wildlife.

You may have read about this in other AOOD issues.

I am very proud of the help we had from AWF members as well as members of other organizations and the work we accomplished on the 23 acres. Volunteer workers put in more than 475 man hours of work and we spent over $11,822 on the 23 acres project.

AWF is meeting with others in another stewardship agreement for 2011. Not sure as of now what all we will try to get done, but it will benefit all wildlife in the area as well as opportunities for the sportsmen and nature watchers. I will have more in the next issue on what we will be working on.

AWF is also looking to partner with other environmental organizations to help on this and other projects that will help support Arkansas Natural Resources. If your group would like to help please contact us at arkwf@ sbcglobal.net or at the AWF office: 501-224-9200.

In addition, AWF is planning for the 75th Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards Banquet set for Aug. 27, 2011 in the new Bryant Center, located on Boone Road, in Bryant, Arkansas, thanks to Heartland Community Bank.

The AWF banquet committee is working very hard to make sure it is the largest and best ever. So we will be sending out nomination forms next issue to try to find indivuals, organization and agencies that have gone the extra mile to help benefit fish, wildlife, and our natural resources in Arkansas. We are also open to donations and sponsorship for the event. So if you’re organization or company would like to be recognized at our event, in our banquet program book and our newsletter then please feel free to contact our office at the information previously provided. I hope you all will help AWF find those that deserve this great honor that has been a tradition for 75 years now, I am honored to be a part of AWF.

–Wayne Shewmake President AWF

This is the 75th Anniversary for the Arkansas Wildlife Federation. The pin you see on the front cover is and will be a covenant collectors pin.

Not many organization can or will be able to say that they have been in business for 75 years.

This year to encourage you to become a member and help support AWF and or mission of conservation and protecting fish, wildlife, and our natural resources in Arkansas. We will give one of these pins to each paid member, along with a membership card. You can also purchase an extra pin for $10 plus shipping.

Also I know times are hard for most everyone, it is also hard for AWF. So if you want to continue to receive our newspaper, we would appreciate your membership support.

For those that chose not to renew there membership, we will discontinue mailing out the AOOD newspaper to you in the near future.

AWF regrets this discussion but we have to pay for the editing, printing and mailing of the paper.

We will be glad to send it to anyone that wants it by email, just send us your name, address and email address and we will add you to our growing email list.

President - Wayne Shewmake 1st VP - Ellen McNulty 2nd VP - Larry Hillyard Treasurer - Garry Bush Secretary - Lucien Gillham

Arkansas Wildlife Federation 9108 Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 101 Little Rock, AR 72205

Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 3

Celebrating 75 Years

By Ethan Nahté 1936 - the middle of the Great Depression and the end of the Dust Bowl. It’s interesting that both the Arkansas Wildlife Federation (AWF) and the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) (began as the General Wildlife Federation until changing their name in 1938) began during such an economic and agricultural crisis, but maybe protecting nature and wildlife was something the United States needed during those difficult times. Now, in 2011, both organizations are celebrating 75 years.

The NWF will be holding their big celebration in Washington, D.C. on April 13, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill. AWF will be holding their celebration Aug. 27, 2011 in the new Bryant Center, located on Boone Road, in Bryant, Arkansas. We expect to have approximately twice the crowd we had last year and are working diligently on improving the event. As usual there should be a silent auction, lots of awards given out and some great food, but we’re hoping to add a little more. Keep your eyes on AOOD for more details.

2011 seems to be a landmark year for many things: World Wildlife Fund turns 50 this year; Carl Benz registered the patent for the first vehicle with a gas

engine 125 years ago in 1886; the Boston Pops is also 125-years-old; Vancouver, that gorgeous city in British Columbia, became incorporated 125 years ago; Arkansas’ very own Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia is also celebrating 125 years.

As part of our year-long celebration AOOD will be showing some other anniversaries as well as searching through our history to give you, our readers and members, some facts about the organization.

Here are a few things that happened in January & February of 1936:

Dale Bumpers, Dr. Rex Handcock and Bob Apple

• The United States Army adopted the semiautomatic rifle.

• Billboard publishes its first music hit parade.

• The first newspaper to microfilm its current issues, New York Herald Tribune.

• The first inductees to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, are announced. They include Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth.

• Briatin’s King George V dies and is succeeded by King Edward VIII. • Screen Actors Guild (SAG) incorporates with King Vidor as president.

• Felix the Cat is introduced by Van Beuren from Otto Messmer.

• Hitler announces building of Volkswagen.

• Sonja Henie, Norway, wins 3rd consecutive Olympics figure skating gold.

• US male figure skating championship won by Robin Lee. • 4th Winter Olympics games close at GarmischPartenkirchen, Germany.

• Hitler introduces Ferdinand Porsche’s “Volkswagen.”

• Willy den Ouden swims world record 100 meter free style (1:04.6).

• Burt Reynolds, American actor, born 75 years ago.

PAST CONSERVATION AWARD RECIPIENTS 1965

W M. (Bill) Apple Wildlife: Charles C. Snapp Soil: Owen Wood Water: J. L. ( Jack) Lee Forestry: David Cameron Education: Dr. C. M. Strack Youth: Kurt Lusinger Legislation: G. D. Smith, Jr. Communications: Harry Pearson Conservation Organization: Union County Wildlife Association F.F.A. Conservationist: James Travis Calhoun 4-H Club Conservationist: Kenn Maples 1966 Governor's Award:

Taking a Look Back 1965 - 1972 ~Past AWF Presidents~ 1965 ~ Raymond Harris, Biscoe 1966 ~ Hurley B. Axum, El Dorado 1967 ~ Robert Apple, Dardanelle 1968 ~ Robert Apple, Dardanelle 1969 ~ Dr. Rex Handcock, Stuttgart 1970 ~ Dr. Rex Handcock, Stuttgart 1971 ~ Ralph Gillham, Dardanelle 1972 ~ Ralph Gillham, Dardanelle

State Conservationist Award:

Governor Orval E. Faubus Wildlife: Harold E. Alexander Soil: Harold Callhan Water: Dr. Neil Compton Forestry: Randall Leister Education: Dr. Henri Crawley Youth: Dale Newberry Communications: Ruth Thomas Conservation Organization: Yell County Wildlife Association F.F.A. Conservationist: Joe Phillips 4-H Club Conservationist: Susan Clements 1967 State Conservationist of the Year:

Kenneth L. Smith Wildlife: Carl R. Amason Education: Dr. Howard K. Suzuki Water: Dr. Joe Nix

Forestry:

A. P Hammons

Soil: Ben Block Meyer

Communications: John Fleming Youth: Mike Mills

Conservation Organization: Arkansas

Audubon Society 1968

Conservationist of the Year: Dr. Rex

Hancock

Wildlife: William J. Allen

Education: Robert T. Kirkwood Water: Gilbert Stramel

Forestry: Russell R. Reynold Soil: M. E. Pelletier

Communications: Mr. and Mrs. Joe M. Clark Youth: Mike Parette

Conservation Organization: Grand

Prairie Chapter 1969

Conservationist of the Year:

Governor Winthrop Rockefeller Education: Dr. Jewel Moore Water: Harold Alexander Forestry: Robert C. Rhodes Soil: C. O. "Jack" Ware Communications: Maurice Moore Youth: Tommy Cantrell Conservation Organization: Ozark Society 1970 Conservationist of the Year: Pratt Remmel, Jr. Wildlife: Trusten Holder Soil: William Baltz

Water: Larry D. Fite

Education: Mrs. H. A Payne

Legislation: Sen. Bill Moore and Rep. Sturgis Miller Communications: Larry A. Dablemont Youth: Milton Bell Forestry: Henry H. Chamberlin Conservation Organization: Westark Wildlife Conservation Club 1971 Conservationist of the Year: Samuel H. Stuckey Education: Julia Foil Communications: George H. Wells Wildlife: Raymond R. McMaster Soil: John E. Bryant Water: Jane E. Stern Youth: Alvin Vanglider Forestry: Monroe Samuel Conservation Organization:

St. Francis Lake Recreational Association 1972 Conservationist of the Year: George Fisher Education: Hugh W Plumlee Communications: Rik O'Neal Wildlife: Presley Melton Soil: William H. Ratcliffe, Jr. Water: John B. Moore, Jr. Youth: Pattie Jennings Forestry: Robert K. Strosnider Conservation Organization: Jefferson Wildlife Association

4 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

Producers can farm less and earn more

by Keith Stephens LITTLE ROCK- ‘Farm less, earn more’ sounds crazy, right? But farm producers around the state lose money on cropland or pasture land in many years.

However, there are a number of options farm producers have to change their red ink to black on their balance sheets. They also can increase their financial bottom-line while improving their farm for fish and wildlife, along with soil and water resources.

What options do farmers and landowners have on their marginally productive, low yielding, hard to farm, unprofitable crop fields, or pastures located adjacent to rivers, creeks and streams?

According to David Long, agricultural liaison for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the Continuous CRP is a conservation program the Farm Service Agency offers that targets those low yielding croplands acres either along field edges or whole fields that producers lose money trying to farm. “They offer significant incentives to producers to place these croplands or streamside pasturelands in good conservation and wildlife cover,” Long says.

Incentives may include yearly rental payments up to 15 years, $100 per acre up-front Signing Incentive Payment and a 50% cost-share payment for establishing the practice coupled with a 40% Practice Incentive Payment. In addition, most CCRP practices pay an additional 20% on the rental payment to increase yearly payments.

Are farmers really farming less and earning more? As of December 2010, according to the FSA website, Arkansas farmers and landowners on 2,202 farms enrolled 125,664 acres in CCRP practices with an average rental payment of $70.82 per acre per year.

Farmers do have an option to “farm less and earn more” by using the CCRP practices to improve their financial bottom-line. It is happening on over 2,000 farms across the state and growing as farmers learn the details of the program.

Payments are made every year, usually in October, for the duration of the contract.

The CRP soil rental payments for cropland are based on the specific soil occurring on the farm. Pasture land has an established flat rental payment by county. Pasture land CCRP practices do apply only to the edges of the pasture land along streams, rivers and creeks out to 180 feet, but can go wider under certain conditions.

CCRP practices include establishing conservation buffers of native grass or trees

along cropland and stream side edges or returning all or a portion of low yielding croplands to bottomland timber or wetlands.

Even small portions of larger crop fields which may be unproductive can be placed into a conservation practice.

Not only do farm producers receive stable farm income over the 15-year CRP contract, they can improve fish and wildlife habitat significantly which can translate into increased deer, turkey, ducks, rabbits, quail and many non-game species of wildlife on the farm, Long said. “For the farmer that also is a hunter, enrolling in the CCRP can provide habitat that can turn a farm that otherwise has low game population into a personal hunting resort for family and friends to enjoy with out traveling far from home to hunt while at the same time continuing farm income on these acres. For the farmer that does not hunt but produces a high game population on CCRP lands, these wildlife paradises can be leased out for waterfowl, deer, turkey or other hunting for added farm income,” he added.

The Continuous CRP has three conservation buffer practices available to row-crop farmers. Conservation buffers for row crop lands include Filter Strips (CP21), Riparian Forest Buffers (CP22) and Wildlife Habitat for Upland Birds (CP33). CCRP practices for whole crop fields include CP 23- Wetland Restoration and CP31- Bottomland Timber Establishment on Wetlands. CP stands for ‘Conservation Practice’ and is assigned numbers to designate each practice.

Row crop lands eligible must have a cropping history of 4 out of 6 years between 2002 and 2008. If the cropland meets this basic criteria along with a few others, there are one or more CCRP practices the producer can choose from, depending on his objectives and his specific cropland or pastureland.

Conservation practices for pastureland edges next to rivers, streams and creeks include Riparian Forest Buffers (CP22) and Marginal Pastureland Wildlife Habitat Buffer (CP29).

The Continuous CRP is a voluntary program that offers annual rental payments for 10 to 15 years, one-time incentive payments and costshare assistance to establish high-priority conservation practices on the farm. Offers are automatically accepted provided the acres and farmer meets minimum eligibility requirements. Farmers may sign-up anytime of the year under the CCRP, and competition does not exist between farmers as in the regular Conservation Reserve Program.

Filter strips apply mostly to the row crop

areas offering the opportunity to establish 20 to 120-foot wide native grass strips along specific cropland edges, Long said.

Long explained one story from a rowcrop farmer in Crittenden County, who signed up approximately 18 acres around his cotton fields in 120-foot wide strips of native grasses receives a yearly rental payment for a 15-year. The farmers asked ‘Why isn’t everybody doing this?’ Long said the biggest obstacle is getting the word out to producers. “Once they learn of the many incentives and benefits, they will usually enroll those acres that just do not provide a profit for their investment and input costs,” he said.

In regards to stream side areas, this is just what the doctor ordered to provide incentives for landowners to improve water quality and fish and wildlife habitat by establishing good tree or native grass buffers, Long says.

“These incentives are available to encourage and reward farmers to reduce sedimentation and polluted runoff into rivers and streams which can also translate into increased fish and wildlife populations.”

Another big benefit of the CCRP comes when a landowner leases out croplands to a tenant farmer, Long said. “Many times a landowner may have, for example, 200 acres of cropland he leases to a tenant

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farmer. However, only 150 acres produces a profit while the other 50 acres, both the tenant farmer and the landowner lose money because of various factors such as poor soil quality, the acres are drought or flood prone or just hard to farm for other reasons,” he said. “The landowner and the tenant farmer can get together and enroll those unprofitable cropland acres into the CCRP and turn a profit on all 200 acres. It’s a win-winwin for the landowner, the tenant farmer, fish and wildlife along with soil and water conservation,” Long stated.

Farmers should contact their county FSA offices and set-up an appointment to discuss the CCRP. In addition, Long may be reached at 877-972-5438 for more information.

AGFC private lands biologist are located at regional offices around the state and may be contacted to help farmers determine areas to consider for the program and help them develop a plan that will ensure the most wildlife benefits from their enrollment in any of the CCRP practices. These biologists may be contacted at the following offices toll-free: Jonesboro, 877-972-5438; Brinkley, 877-734-4581; Fort Smith, 877-478-1043; Monticello, 877-367-3559; Mayflower, 877-470-3650; Calico Rock, 877-297-4331; Camden, 877-836-4512; Hope, 877-777-5580.

So do other readers, so why not support the AOOD and advertise in our publication!

Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 5

Seeking Shooter of Hawk

by Ethan Nahté AWF received an e-mail on the morning of Tuesday, February 1 by Lox Nolley and his wife, Tracy Stackhouse, to ask if we could identify this bird (see photo) they had found at the intersection of Charles Bussey Avenue and Abigail Street in Little Rock.

The residential neighborhood where they found the injured bird contains quite a few trees, perfect for birds of all sizes, including this gorgeous immature red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) which is protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBRT) of 1918.

Title 16, Chapter 7, Subchapter II, § 703.

In short, the taking, killing, or possessing migratory birds, with a couple of exceptions, makes it illegal at any time, by any means or manner to pursue, hunt, take capture, kill; or attempt to take, capture, kill, possess, offer to sale, etc. any migratory bird, nest, eggs, or parts thereof. Basically it states that you should leave the birds alone. Doing so can carry a fine of no more than $15,000 and/or up to six months in jail.

“Lox saw the bird first,” said Stackhouse. “It was on his side of the car and he stopped and pointed it out to me. LRAS (Little Rock Animal Services) said they only had two workers out that day and it might be a long wait.

“When the bird went in the street and crossed it we thought it was time to take action. We were afraid that it would get hit by a car, caught by a dog or that it would not withstand the cold temperatures when it could not fly or hunt. He kept trying to fly, trying to hop over fences and it looked like he might hurt himself worse. We knocked on a door of a house with a comforter in the yard by a bush and got permission to

use the comforter. We threw it over the bird and sort of swaddled it and got the wings by his side. Between the two of us, we kept its wings at its sides while Lox gripped it around the tarsus, right above the feet, and then got the wing-tips into the same grip. He held the bird while I drove to LRAS, which is fairly close down University Avenue,” said Stackhouse.

“We didn’t know if the bird would decide to start struggling, using its beak, etc. I mean he was good sized even if immature. It [LRAS] was close and I knew the bird should really be transported in a dog carrier.

“One of my main concerns was the whole time we were with the hawk, there was another hawk circling above us like it was our hawk’s mate or something. At some point the other bird had a branch in its mouth like it was building a nest,” Stackhouse stated her concern by asking, “Is the yahoo who shot this one going to shoot it too?”

“My theory was to handle and scare it as little as possible, sort of like when I have to handle an injured feral cat. I sort of specialize in small abandoned kittens and injured cats. The smallest [kitten] I have ever gotten was hours after birth [transfer time] and only 2 oz. I have dealt with strays and ferals with snakebite, broken legs, abscesses and other conditions. I know Tracy Roark from our spay/neuter clinics when LRAS loans us its clinic area.

“When we walked in LRAS,” Stackhouse continues, “the front desk was like ‘WHAT?!? How do we do intake on that?’ So I asked for Tracy Roark, the director. At that time he came out of the clinic area. We know each other from the FuRR (Feline Rescue & Rehome) group using the clinic area for

New opportunity to enroll marginally productive croplands

by Keith Stephens LITTLE ROCK – The Farm Service Agency recently announced the Conservation Reserve Program will hold a General Signup from March 14 through April 15. FSA has a commitment to maintaining CRP close to its congressionally-authorized cap of 32 million acres.

According to David Long, private lands coordinator with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, during last fall’s signup in Arkansas, 12,255 acres of cropland were approved for enrollment on 215 farms across the row-crop producing areas of the state. “This provides evidence that farmers still had marginally productive fields and selected enrollment in CRP to improve their farm income though this proven incentive

based conservation program,” he said. “Even though the regular CRP is competitive with farmers competing against each other at the national level, Arkansas has 14 counties in the state designated as Conservation Priority Areas and croplands submitted from these counties, receive extra points in the ranking when they select certain wildlife practices,” he added.

The counties included are Arkansas, Ashley, Desha, Drew, Chicot, Cross, Jefferson, Lonoke, Prairie, Pulaski, St. Francis, White and Woodruff. In addition, the cropland in these CPA counties does not have to be highly erodible. The following three high priority wildlife practices that are being promoted include CP2-Native Grasses, CP3A- Hardwoods and CP4D- Permanent Wildlife Habitat and receive extra points in

our spay/neuter clinics. He took us back into the clinic area and got a big dog carrier and we put the bird in the carrier. Roark said he knew a wildlife rehabilitator and would ask her what to do. He ended up taking the bird to North Hills Animal Hospital.

“Dr. Hawley, of North Hills Animal Hospital, saw the bird and I think a wildlife rehabilitator named Rodney Paul was there. I am a little vague on exactly what the sequence was. As far as I can tell, Dr. Hawley and Rodney Paul decided on euthanasia based on USFWS guidelines.”

Stackhouse said that Paul told her that “…the hawk had been shot in the neck and was paralyzed on the right side and had to be euthanized.”

“It looked as if it were a round shot like a BB,” said Dr. Hawley. “I’m not a hunter but it was shaped like that.”

“This way the hawk went fairly peacefully and wasn’t attacked by dogs or feral cats, used for target practice, hit by car or died a slow death from the cold or starvation,” said Stackhouse. “I guess Lox and I drove down that street for a reason.”

“The shot had hit the hawk in the spinal cord and passed through it,” Hawley said upon examination. “The bird had no pain response, no feeling in its wings or legs. It was very startled about what was going on. It [euthanasia] was the best Rodney Paul and I could do. The immature hawk wouldn’t have stood a chance in nature like that. It’s really a shame.”

AWF referred her to AGFC’s enforcement division [(501) 223-6351] to report the incident. She didn’t get the officer’s name but was a bit discouraged about what she was told. It was probably a kid with a pellet gun and that it would be practically impossible to find the person responsible.

“I bet the yahoo is out there bragging about the big bird he shot and I bet he is in the immediate area because how far does a paralyzed bird fly”?

This is where AWF would like your help. If you live in that neighborhood and witnessed anything or have heard about the incident, please feel free to E-mail arkwf@sbcglobal.net or call our office @ 501-224-9200. You can also contact AGFC @ 1-800-364-4263 toll free or 501-2236300 if you live in the Little Rock area.

“Yes, it was beautiful,” said Stackhouse. “I didn’t hold it, but it was a thrill to see one up close and personal.” It’s just unfortunate that someone, probably just taking pop shots and having a good time, took the life of such a majestic bird.

AWF would like to thank Channels 4 (KARK), 7 (KATV) & 11 (KTHV) in Little Rock as well as the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for running this story and notifying the public on our behalf. We also appreciate the assistance and information provided by Lynn Slater of HAWK (Helping Arkansas Wild Kritters)

the ranking, Long says. “The program gives producers the ability to target cropland acres that are in dry land soybeans that have a history of either drought or flooding that destroys newly planted, standing crops or crops ready to harvest in the fall,” he explained.

Producers who have an interest in wildlife and want to increase their chances for enrollment, should select the highest wildlife ranking points under the practice they signup for, which increases their chances to be approved for funding. Practices such as CP1 Introduced Grasses and Legumes, CP2 Native Grass, CP3 Tree Planting-Pine, CP3A Hardwood Trees and CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat all have an option for a 40 to 50 point score that targets creating premium wildlife habitat which will greatly increase their competitive edge in the national ranking.

Producers may select these high wildlife points when their application is ranked by their county FSA personnel.

Eligible lands include the following:

cropland (or cropland considered planted) with a cropping history of 4 out of 6 crop years from 2002 to 2008 and cropland with a erosion index of eight or higher. Cropland in the CPA counties do not have to meet the erosion index criteria.

Long said that croplands enrolled in CRP provide a winning combination for farm producers through 10-15 year rental payments, cost-share payments, and water quality improvement and increased wildlife habitat on the farm. “In addition, CRP has been a life saver for farmers struggling in today’s economic environment who are still farming marginally productive, nonprofitable acres by enrolling these acres in the CRP which can dramatically improve their financial bottom-line,” he added.

Producers should contact their county FSA offices for more information about the upcoming CRP signup scheduled for March 14 though April 15. Long may be reached at 877-972-5438.

6 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

Hunters, Anglers, Boaters, Nature Lovers: Its time to stand up for clean water Written by Caroline Wick, Restoration and Water Resources Program Associate, National Wildlife Federation; Jan Goldman-Carter, Wetlands and Water Resources Counsel, National Wildlife Federation

“Welcome to 2011, a year that will test the commitment of the outdoors community to the future of their traditions.”

It’s 2011 and this year brings a disappointing anniversary: it’s the tenth year since the Supreme Court issued a decision that pulled the rug out from under the Clean Water Act. The 2001 SWANCC decision removed protections for so-called “isolated” wetlands, including the prairie potholes that support duck populations. The Court’s 2006 Rapanos decision further complicated protection efforts by questioning protections for over half of U.S. stream miles and millions of acres of wetlands directly associated with them. These two decisions together have undermined the landmark clean water legislation that for almost 30 years nearly guaranteed that our water resources would be protected for generations to come.

For the last ten years, Congress has repeatedly seen bills introduced to restore these lost protections, but the legislation stalled in Committee, never becoming law.

Now, in 2011, the Clean Water Act’s first 30 years of progress is threatened by a decade of lost protections, nearly one-third of the total time the Act was in full effect.

Wetlands and small streams, by their very existence, provide a number of services that we frequently take for granted. Healthy streams and wetlands filter and replenish our drinking waters supplies; absorb flood waters; recharge and release precious water supplies during times of drought; support diverse and abundant fish and wildlife; and support local hunting, fishing, boating, and birdwatching industries.

What does the loss of Clean Water Act protections mean for Arkansas?

In Arkansas, as a result of these two Supreme Court decisions and subsequent agency guidance, at least 63% of streams and their adjacent wetlands are at risk of uncontrolled filling and pollution. This is especially concerning because Arkansas has lost more wetland acres than any other inland state in the nation – 72% of its wetlands since the 1780s.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) has acknowledged the importance of these waters to flood control: “[Arkansas’s wet flats] store a lot of

-Bob Marshall, The Times Picayune, 1/2/2011 precipitation that would otherwise run overland to the small streams, making them very flashy and prone to erosion. This water also provides base flow for these tributaries through slow release of this water through subsurface transport. Large expanses of these wet flats could be compromised if the protections of isolated wetlands or tributaries are removed, and degradation of downstream areas is sure to follow.”

Events in Arkansas this past summer highlight the importance of natural flood control and water storage. In June 2010, the Caddo and Missouri Rivers’ water levels increased by 20 feet overnight, threatening as many as 300 campers and killing at least 18.

In 2008 the State issued four flooding-related major disaster declarations. Headwater and wetland drainage, channelization, and filling contribute to flooding losses: just a 1% loss of a watershed’s wetlands can increase total flood volume by almost 7%. Two hurricanes, Ike and Gustav, struck states across the Southeast— including Arkansas—and caused over one billion dollars in storm-related damages.

The AGFC also recognizes the contribution these small streams make to Arkansas’s natural diversity, noting that “[Arkansas] is rich with mountain streams, most of which are tributary orders away from any river used or historically used for commercial navigation… [including] the Buffalo, an Ozark Zone Blue Ribbon smallmouth bass stream and a national recreation destination.”

The Clean Water Act may no longer protect these streams and their adjacent wetlands.

According to the AGFC, “removing the Buffalo National River, its tributaries, or similar streams from CWA jurisdiction would have devastating impacts both to the biological integrity of the stream, and the economy of Arkansas.” This “biological integrity” includes many Ozark Mountain headwater tributaries that originate in karst topography, where seeps and caves support endemic crayfish and the endangered Ozark cave fish. All three federally-listed plants in Arkansas are restricted to specific wetland habitats. Pollution of wetlands in karst topography poses an especially elevated risk to drinking water supplies and streams.

Furthermore, the rollback of Clean Water Act protections threatens future duck harvests. Arkansas is a premier destination for many of the nation’s waterfowl hunters and their expenditures support many local economies. The at-risk wetlands of the Prairie Pothole region (also known as North America’s “Duck Factory”) produce most of the ducks that migrate to Arkansas.

Clean Water Act protections have been withdrawn from most of these wetlands.

If these protections are not restored, this critically important breeding habitat will likely suffer additional losses, potentially contributing to shortened duck seasons and reduced bag limits.

It’s not just Arkansas’ hunting heritage that is threatened by the rollback in Clean Water Act protections, but the fishing and tourism economy as well. Ninety percent of fish caught by American recreational anglers need wetlands for shelter, food supply, spawning, and nursery areas. Wetlands are essential spawning and breeding grounds for fish and they shelter the smaller fish, crustaceans, and insects that serve as food for many larger fish. Arkansas’s wetlands support a wide diversity of wading birds, migratory song birds, and other wildlife that attract wildlife enthusiasts to the Arkansas outdoors. Arkansas’ outdoor recreation and tourism economy rely upon the continued protections of these waters. Over $2 billion was spent in Arkansas in 2006 on fish and wildlife related recreation, most of which is dependent upon healthy and abundant aquatic habitat.

Removing protections for these waters threatens the health of Arkansas’s human and wildlife residents. Nearly one-third of Arkansans’—940,000 residents— drinking water supplies are fed by source water protection areas containing small or intermittent streams and rivers that may be vulnerable to pollution now that Clean Water Act protections have been rescinded.

And, almost 400 polluting facilities are known to be located on at-risk streams in Arkansas. Their pollution is presently limited by Clean Water Act permits, but these permits may no longer be necessary absent confirmation that the Clean Water Act applies to these waters. Failure to protect these wetlands and small streams, which remove pollutants, may increase drinking water treatment costs and/or risks to public health.

And lastly, water flows downhill, meaning that the loss of Clean Water Act protections threatens the quality of the waters flowing into Arkansas from upstream; and the quality of the water Arkansans send down the Mississippi River to Louisiana, Mississippi, and the Gulf of Mexico. Protecting clean water and habitat is a challenge and a responsibility that crosses state lines.

The Current Situation Congress just returned for the 112th session and it seems the partisan cloud of the 111th Congress still looms, leaving little chance for legislation to restore Clean Water Act protections. To ensure that all of America’s waters receive protections as soon as possible, National Wildlife Federation and its partner organizations are asking the Administration to take action to restore these lost protections. As we near the 10th anniversary of the first Supreme Court decision, we must look beyond Congress for action to restore protections. Therefore, we are urging the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers to revise their definition of “Waters of the United States” to restore and clarify Clean Water Act protections, including for so-called “isolated” wetlands, in a manner consistent with both law and science. A successful rulemaking will restore and clarify protections for millions of wetland acres and stream miles, and will place these restored protections on a much more secure legal and scientific foundation.

What You Can Do The Environmental Protection Agency is preparing to release guidance in early 2011 that should serve as a first step toward a rulemaking. Both the proposed guidance and rulemaking will be open for your comments.

To protect Arkansas’s “biological integrity,” outdoor recreation and tourism economy, and quality of life, please submit comments to the E.P.A. informing them of the importance of the wetlands, lakes, and streams on which you depend for water, flood storage, and recreation, and urging them to undertake a rulemaking that restores and clarifies protections for these and the millions of wetland acres and hundreds of thousands of stream miles presently at risk. While you are at it, send a copy of your comments to your members of Congress and to your local media, letting them know the importance of protecting Arkansas’ water resources. Clean water is essential to the health of each of us and our communities, and an issue that all elected officials should care about.

As renowned sportsmen columnist Bob Marshall stated, it’s 2011 and it’s time to defend our outdoor traditions, many of which are dependent on clean and healthy waters.

After ten years of lost clean water protections we can no longer take for granted that our grandchildren will have access to the prized wetlands, lakes, and streams that we have enjoyed for generations.

For further information or assistance in preparing comments, please contact Jan Goldman-Carter (goldmancarterj@nwf.org, 202-797-6894) or Caroline Wick (wickc@ nwf.org, 202-797-6619).

Or, visit our website at www.nwf.org/waters

Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 7

In Memory Of: Carol M. Griffee Veteran journalist Carol M. Griffee, 74, of North Little Rock, died January 24, 2011 after a long struggle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused by smoking. Carol was born December 30, 1937, in Washington, D.C., to University of Arkansas graduates John F., a newsman, and Leda Mae Woodruff Griffee. After John’s death in June 1946, his widow moved the family to Fort Smith where Carol graduated from high school in 1955 and immediately began her first full-time journalism job as a reporter for the Fort Smith Times-Record.

Carol graduated with honors Phi Gamma Kappa (now Phi Beta Kappa) in journalismhistory/political science from the University of Tulsa in 1959 and received her masters degree in history/political science from that institution in 1966. She was a member of Mortar Board; Phi Alpha Theta (history); Pi Gamma Mu (social sciences); Phi Delta Epsilon and Pi Alpha Mu (journalism); was president of Epsilon Gamma Chapter of Phi Mu sorority and of Lottie Jane Mabee Hall for Women; and was chosen three consecutive years for Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges, among other honors. She also worked full-time during college as a Tulsa World reporter.

She returned to the Washington, D.C. area in 1961 and was a reporter/photographer/editor for two Fairfax County (VA.) weekly newspapers before joining the staff of the old Washington Star from 1963-66.

Carol was a reporter for the old Arkansas Gazette from 1973 until resigning in 1985 to become an independent journalist and add book and magazine writings to her efforts through her own company. Although her Gazette assignments varied widely, she became known primarily for environmental, investigative, and political coverage and for being a fierce protector of the Freedom of Information Act, including serving on the state Electronics Records Study Commission in 1999.

She wrote several histories, including those of the Little Rock Wastewater Utility, the Arkansas Conservation Sales Tax, and the Bayou Meto Wildlife Management Area.

She was the current parliamentarian and a former president of the Arkansas Press Women Association, a former board member of the National Federation of Press Women, and had been active in the Arkansas Professional Chapter, The Society of Professional Journalists, which gave her a Lifetime Achievement Award, October 20, 2010. Among other honors, she was the Arkansas Wildlife Federation’s 1985 Conservationist of the Year and wrote many articles for AWF’s publications; 1996 Arkansas Journalist from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock; received the Arkansas Press Association’s Freedom of Information Award in 1997; was inducted into the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame 1999, and received the Ernie Deane Award for valor in journalism in 2004. She also served on the board of the former Greater Little Rock Community Mental Health Center and of the Arkansas Women’s History Institute.

Carol moved to North Little Rock in late 2005 after 32 years in Little Rock.

Carol wanted no services. Her burial was held in Fort Smith in private by Edwards Funeral Home. Memorials can be sent to: Arkansas Press Women Scholarship Fund c/o Treasurer Terry Hawkins 216 S. John St. Dumas, AR, 71639 or to a charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com Carol seemed to be a very energetic and outspoken person and will be dearly missed by those that she worked with and the many groups and organizations that she assisted during her illustrious career.

In Memorium AWF would like to give our condolences and recognize the passing of AWF member Don D. Newkirk of Des Arc, AR. His widow has donated money to AWF as a memorial to Mr. Newkirk who passed away on November 8, 2010. Mrs. Newkirk says, “He will be missed terribly.”

Arbor Day History and Celebration The first Arbor Day took place on April 10, 1872 in Nebraska.

It was the brainchild of Julius Sterling Morton (1832-1902), a Nebraska journalist and politician originally from Michigan.

Throughout his long and productive career, Morton worked to improve agricultural techniques in his adopted state and throughout the United States when he served as President Grover Cleveland’s Secretary of Agriculture. But his most important legacy is Arbor Day. Morton (photo, right) felt that Nebraska’s landscape and economy would benefit from the wide-scale planting of trees. He set an example himself planting orchards, shade trees and wind breaks on his own farm and he urged his neighbors to follow suit. Morton’s real opportunity, though, arrived when he became a member of Nebraska’s state board of agriculture. He proposed that a special day be set aside dedicated to tree planting and increasing awareness of the importance of trees. Nebraska’s first Arbor Day was an amazing success. More than one million trees were planted. A second Arbor Day took place in 1884 and the young state made it an annual legal holiday in 1885, using April 22nd to coincide with Morton’s birthday.

In the years following that first Arbor Day, Morton’s idea spread beyond Nebraska with Kansas, Tennessee, Minnesota and Ohio all proclaiming their own Arbor Days. Today all 50 states celebrate Arbor Day although the dates may vary in keeping with the local climate. At the federal level, in 1970, President Richard Nixon proclaimed the last Friday in April as National Arbor Day. In Arkansas, Arbor Day was celebrated on the third Monday in March.

Arbor Day is also now celebrated in other countries including Australia. Variations are celebrated as ‘Greening Week’ of Japan, ‘The New Year’s Days of Trees’ in Israel, ‘The Tree-loving Week’ of Korea, ‘The Reforestation Week’ of Yugoslavia, ‘The Students’ Afforestation Day’ of Iceland and ‘The National Festival of Tree Planting’ in India. Julius Sterling Morton would be proud.

Sometimes one good idea can make a real difference.

For the homeowner, Arbor Day is an excellent opportunity to take stock of the trees on your property and plan for the future.

Inspect your trees. Note any broken branches or evidence of disease or insect infestation. Think about how planting new trees might improve the look of your property or provide wind or heat protection. Take a trip to your local nursery to see what’s available and to get new ideas. Walk around your neighborhood. Are there any public areas where tree planting or tree maintenance might make a real difference to your community? Talk with your neighbors. Find out what their opinions are. And, oh yes, plant a tree.

8 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

Woods Hollow’s Last Deer

By Jim Wood Sharing the following 1989 piece I wrote for the Yell County Historical Association quarterly recalling how in 1915 my ancestors killed the last deer in Woods Hollow.

Named by US Geological Survey, Woods Hollow lays South of Lake Dardanelle in eastern Logan County at east base of Bear Mountain, a scenic remnant of our Natural State. My great grandfather William settled on Stinnett Creek headwaters during late 1800’s. His children settling nearby was how the community earned its name, typical for how mountains, hollows, streams, etc. got originally named. In the Hollow hogs, cows and other livestock free ranged. Most food came from small gardens and truck patches. Scarce hard cash came from sawmilling and whatever winter fur they managed to catch. Most families owned a couple hounds and plenty steel traps. Hunting was popular mountain sport and produced many handed down adventures.

Leaving east TN in 1818, my ancestors settled on White River near present day Yellville, some bartering “squatters right” lands from Shawnee Indians and in 1841 moved to Dardanelle. Hunting and fishing was necessary to frontier survival and those not good at it went back east. They year around hunted any critter they found under an attitude that unless you killed the turkey, bear or deer at every opportunity your neighbor down the Hollow would. According to old

family member comments, elimination of frontier wildlife was a foregone conclusion; game would soon be gone never to return. The following is a handed down family account as to how the last deer in Woods Hollow was killed.

In 1915 William “Bill” Wood lived near base of Bear Mountain. No deer had been seen in the area for years and folks considered them wiped out. Coon hunting a few hours most every winter night was a family habit.

On a February night he and son Norman followed their dogs up Dry Fork Creek topping out where Spring Mtn. Long Spur meets Buzzard Knob. Dogs had struck nothing so they skirted along east bench. After a hound struck they realized their dogs were on top of Bear Mtn. hot trailing some unknown critter.

Crossing over to Delaware Mtn. they realized this critter’s gone too far to be a coon, may even be a panther, since a Harkey Valley neighbor claimed a cat had recently killed a hog. The chase went north across Bugscuffle Saddle, through Coin Hollow, to Charlie Rollans Mtn. and out of hearing.

Unable to keep up, Bill and Norman went home.

Searching for their hounds next morning, they found them lounging at the Ambros Johnson place and learned the rest of the story. Dogs were running a deer and had bayed it in nearby Delaware Creek. Hearing the commotion, Ambros with his old Civil War revolver, went to investigate, arriving at same time as neighbor Jake Graves. Ambros son Tony remarked sixty years later, “Papa shot it, but he didn’t keep it, Jake got the deer.”

Talking with old time family folks, there was little remorse in Woods Hollow for having killed the last deer. And as the story got retold over and over, neighbors would boastfully commend dog owners Bill and Norman for their role in killing the last deer.

Crappie competitions coming up on Conway, Dardanelle CONWAY – Spring means it’s crappie fishing time in Arkansas, and two of the more productive arenas are Lake Conway and Lake Dardanelle.

Bass Pro Shops’ Crappie Masters will have its 2011 Arkansas State Championship on Lake Conway April 8-9. Crappie Masters will hold a tournament April 29-30 on Lake Dardanelle.

Along with the Lake Conway event, a Kid’s Fishing Rodeo will be April 9 at Bob Courtway Middle School’s Spirit Lake, 1200 Bob Courtway Drive in Conway, for contestants 15 and younger.

Registration is 8 a.m. that day and fishing is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Kids should bring bait and poles. The state championship on Lake Conway offers anglers a chance to compete for cash and prizes, for the Arkansas state champion title and for a berth in the Crappie Masters National Championship.

Crappie anglers may register at Bradford Marine locations – 8020 Landers Road, North Little Rock; 2925 Albert Pike, Hot Springs; 2325 N. Thompson St., Springdale, and 8425 N. State Line Road, Texarkana. Deadline is March 25. Late registration is at the Hilton Garden Inn, 805 Amity Road, Conway, at 5 p.m. There will be a banquet at 6 p.m., April 7, followed by a crappie fishing seminar at 7 p.m.

Tournament weigh-ins will be April 8-9 at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds, 2505 E. Oak Street. Fishing time is 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. both days.

The Lake Dardanelle tournament, April 29-30, is a special invitational tournament pitting the top six teams from each Crappie Masters tournament in 2010. Some spots are open to the public. These call-in entries can be made at 660-723-1552.

Competitors may pick up credentials at 5 p.m., with a banquet at 6 p.m., followed by a crappie fishing seminar at 7 p.m. These events will be at the Hughes Center, 1000 E. Parkway in Russellville.

Tournament weigh-ins will be at Lake Dardanelle State Park Weigh-In Pavilion.

Fishing times are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. both days.

A Kids Fishing Rodeo will be April 30 at Lake Dardanelle State Park Weigh-In Pavilion for youngsters 15 and under. Registration is 8 a.m. and fishing is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Kids should bring bait and poles.

The two tournaments also give anglers a chance to win a boat. Bradford Marine and ATV is sponsoring the boat drawing for a Tracker Pro Team 175 boat, and 40 HP motor and trailer.

To qualify, anglers that enter Lake Conway or Lake Dardanelle tournaments must stop into one of the Bradford Marine locations. Anglers that enter both tournaments will get two tickets for the drawing.

For more information on tournaments, contact Bass Pro Shops Crappie Masters online at www.crappiemasters.net, e-mail at crappiemasters@gmail.com or phone 417-532-0244.

At the State Capitol a profound change was underway that same year though when the State Legislature established the AR Game & Fish Commission. Thirty years later a dozen deer was restocked to the area. Woods Hollow now supports a deer abundance that would amaze Bill and Norman were they here to see it.

Nature center re-opens in Pine Bluff PINE BLUFF – The Governor Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center will showed off its new look the weekend of March 5, 2011 in Pine Bluff. The center has been closed since Dec. 14, 2010, for major renovations to the displays and interactive educational exhibits.

The nature center opened in 2001 and was the first of four centers operated by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Not only were the new exhibits available for viewing, but there also was an arcade shooting game called Laser Shots, as well as an archery area similar to the AGFC’s Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program. There were display booths from the nature center’s quilting and plant swap groups.

The nature center has added wildlife, boating and swamp exhibits, as well as forest and underwater dioramas. New display cases for temporary exhibits have been added. The center’s signature crop-duster has been upgraded. New wall murals and a new video also are in place, as are a watchable wildlife wall and digital information board near the main entrance.

The Governor Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center is one of Pine Bluff’s great attractions and has been toured by hundreds of thousands of people since its opening. It is in Pine Bluff Regional Park off U.S. Highway 65B. For more information, call the nature center at 870-534-0011 or visit its website at http:// www.deltarivers.com/.

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Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 9

Arkansas Sportshow

Plans are already under way for next year’s Arkansas Sportshow.

If you’ve never been to this event then you’re missing out. There’s over 75,000 square feet of the latest sporting products for hunting, fishing, boating and diving. The Convocation Center’s lower level is full of boats, ATV’s, campers and pontoons. The upper level has over 90 vendors that have everything from gear to pork rinds. Next year’s Arkansas Sportshow will have a few surprises on the list of entertainment.

This year’s show was presented by St. Bernard’s and HMG and was brought to you by the Jonesboro A&P Commission.

by Gary Bush The Arkansas Wildlife Federation (AWF) joined the Jonesboro Rotary’s 26th annual Arkansas Sport Show the weekend of February 11-13, 2011. The event serves as a great resource for outdoor enthusiast of all ages and the weekend event brought a wonderful opportunity for AWF to share concerns about conservation with the citizens of northeast Arkansas.

We were also delighted to be joined at the event by Dan Martin, public relations officer for the Greene County Wildlife Club, an AWF affiliate. This club is very active in the community and has helped the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AG&FC) increase the size of the Scatter Creek Wildlife Management Area through local fund raising efforts.

We saw the addition of 44 new members at the event and gave away a Benelli shotgun, signed by competition shooter Tim Bradley. Special thanks to the folks at DNW Outdoors that provided this prize that was given away at the event.

We were also fortunate to have Brad Clevenger with the Forest L. Wood Nature Center (AG&FC) as our neighbor in the “Deer Woods” section of the show. The AG&FC, through the nature center, participates in numerous educational events throughout northeast Arkansas.

Once again, special thanks to the Sport Show Committee and the Jonesboro Rotary. The AWF looks forward to returning to northeast Arkansas later this year to help coordinate educational activities with our conservation partners.

M SA 8am ON T 9 to -F am 6 RI -3 pm pm

By Mike Barber Perfect weather hit at the perfect time for this year’s 26th Annual Arkansas Sportshow at the Convocation Center in Jonesboro, Arkansas on February 11-13.

“With the bad weather that hit just days prior to this years event, patrons of the Arkansas Sportshow came out in droves,” according to Mike Barber, Sportshow Committee Member.

This year the Rotary Club of Jonesboro strived to increase traffic and attractions with the addition of more advertising and new events like the Laser Trap Shooting Simulation. Each paid ticket into the Sportshow got you a free entry in the Kawasaki ATV giveaway but it also allowed you a free round of shooting in the Laser Trap Shooting Simulation.

The Arkansas Sportshow is a service project of the Rotary Club of Jonesboro.

Proceeds from this event go directly to many worthy Rotary causes. To find out more about Rotary go to www.jonesbororotary.org.

“This year’s event featured the MidSouth Big Buck Extravaganza with eight different divisions, a Kid’s Corner featuring a Petting Zoo and a Rock Climbing Wall, the World’s Greatest Trout Tank and a 3-D Pop-Up Archery Tournament which always has a crowd for the tournament on Sunday,” Barber said.

AWF Gives Away Shotgun

Northeast Arkansas’s Premier Hunting And Fishing Headquarters This year the Arkansas Sportshow featured Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame inductee, Eddie Salter. Salter gave five seminars during the weekend focusing on turkey hunting and occasionally spoke about deer hunting when asked questions. “Eddie is a two time World Champion Turkey caller and we were very fortunate to have him come to our show this year. It definitely gave a new meaning of ‘Talking Turkey’,” Barber said.

New this year was the addition of the “Trail Photo Contest” which showcased trail photos of massive buck, black bear, raccoons and many more.

1711 East Parker Rd, Jonesboro AR. 72404 870-972-5827 www.dnwoutdoors.com

10 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

26TH ANNUAL ARKA

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Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 11

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12 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

NWTF honors Widner with lifetime achievement award

Clean Water Network Regional Caucus

by Jim Wood September 15-16, 2010, delegates representing organizations from 13 states and Washington, DC met for the "Oil, Mining & NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Former Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Gas Water Pollution in the Lower MS River Basin" caucus at turkey biologist Michael Widner of Conway has earned the National Wild the Holiday Inn Presidential in Little Rock, AR. I represented Turkey Federation’s prestigious Wayne Bailey Lifetime Achievement Arkansas Wildlife Federation with a primary interest in Award for his commitment to conservation.

Fayetteville Shale and associated water quality issues. AWF Widner accepted the award during the NWTF’s 35th annual National passed a September 15, 2007 policy resolution titled "GAS Convention and Sport Show in Nashville, Tennessee.

WELL DRILLING FLUID DISPOSAL" regarding our concerns “I am humbled just to have my name mentioned in the same sentence as for protecting fish, wildlife and water quality during hydraulic Wayne Bailey,” Widner said. “It was an exciting time and I count myself fracturing and fluid disposal. fortunate that I was heavily involved in wild turkey restoration. Learning Donna Adolph from Bee Branch, AR, founder of Arkansans how to put wild turkeys back on the landscape and how to sustainably for Gas Drilling Accountability, presented a revealing manage them was the best job a person could ask for.” powerpoint presentation about drilling contamination of local Widner, who retired from the AGFC recently, received the award to rural water wells. Debbie Doss (Arkansas Canoe Club) and Ellen honor his 36 consecutive years of conservation work that played an McNulty (NWF Outreach Coordinator) discussed gas drilling important part in the amazing resurgence of the wild turkey population in water quality issues in Arkansas. Gene Dunaway (Friends of North America. the North Fork and White River) presented a program on frac “Wayne Bailey was known to many as the godfather of modern turkey sand mining in northern Arkansas and [southern] Missouri. management and was a key player in the development of the NWTF,” said Given that shale fracturing is declared to take place thousands James Earl Kenammer, NWTF’s chief conservation officer. “Michael’s of feet below aquifers that supply water wells, the numerous work is the embodiment of what Wayne Bailey stood for and he truly water samples Adolph's Accountability group displayed was deserves this honor. The NWTF could ask for no better partner.” obvious evidence that drilling fluids were leaking into water Widner has a long history of collaboration with the NWTF. He served as Arkansas’s NWTF Technical Committee tables. Even more troublesome were firsthand experiences from representative for 15 years and worked with the Arkansas NWTF board of directors to implement hundreds of Hunting some that complained to the Arkansas Dept. of Environmental Heritage State Super Fund habitat and management projects, with more than $1.5 million spent on those projects by the Quality (ADEQ) about water contamination instances. Agency NWTF. He even attended one of the early Hunting Heritage Super Fund banquets in Arkansas. personnel visited the site but took no action.

Additionally, AWF is looking at participating in a project with NWTF, USFS and other organizations to capture and AWF concerns have largely focused upon ADEQ tag wild turkeys in the Ouachita region beginning this year. We hope to have some of the same success as Widner has permitting drilling fluid transport across the state for land had during his career. disposal, issuing no-discharge permits for spreading fluids on lands located near drainages where they migrate offsite into streams and wetlands. ADEQ investigated eleven no-discharge permitted land farm disposal facilities/ sites between November 25, 2008 and At Heartland Bank, our customers come January 20, 2009 and found all were first. Our friendly staff is here to assist violating their permit and discharging to waters of the state, and some you with all of your banking needs - from contaminated sites were irretrievably loans to new accounts, mortgages, cd’s, damaged. Much discussion centered around ADEQ's failure to get ahead of and everything in between. Stop by any the monitoring curve and reliance upon one of our convenient locations today… complaints or to assess a monetary penalty after irretrievable damage has we’re here to help. already been done.

ADEQ issues land disposal permits that allow increasing elements up to the following pounds per acre: Arsenic 37, Cadmium 35, Copper 1,350, Lead 270, Mercury 15, Nickel 378, Selenium 90, Zinc 2520 for a per acre total of 4,695 pounds.

Cadmium causes cancer, selenium causes Bryant: 4937 Hwy 5 N. / 501-847-7982 deformities in waterfowl and don't get Sheridan: 108 South Main St. / 870-942-8844 caught with lead among your duck loads.

Fordyce: 610 W. 4th St. / 870-352-3101 The caucus revealed need for much more discussion to take place regarding Little Rock: 5100 Kavanaugh Blvd. / 501-663-3350 how Arkansas sportsmen and water www.heartlandbankonline.com quality interests address gas drilling issues in our state.

Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 13

Arrival of March means it’s time for walleye

LITTLE ROCK – February fades into March, and walleye get into action in many Arkansas fishing waters. This is a season with excitement for some anglers, and there is room for more.

Walleye are fun to catch, but the game has its differences from other, more familiar types of fishing – bass, for instance.

There are some similarities, however. A fisherman going after walleye may already have some suitable lures in the bass fishing tackle box.

When water gets above 45 degrees, walleye begin to move from deep to shallow water in preparation for spawning. They move upstream into shoals, shallow-water areas. Many walleye fishermen, and also fisheries biologists, say walleye move upstream in stages, with the males traveling first.

Some anglers regard 47 degrees as the key reading for water temperature. They keep in mind that male walleye are usually smaller than females.

To fish for walleye, it helps to learn something about their life and their preferences.

The walleye is a fish of gravel bottoms, says Mike Armstrong, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s assistant director and a veteran fisheries biologist.

“They like clean water with gravel bottoms in both the rivers and the lakes. If the water is generally turbid (discolored or muddy), you won’t find walleyes on a consistent basis.”

Early March walleye waters include the tributaries of Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Ouachita, Norfork Lake and Bull Shoals Lake. Several rivers in northeastern Arkansas have walleye – the Spring

Fish Hatcheries Potential Closing In the proposed budget placed on President Obama’s desk Monday, February 14th, there were suggested budget cuts. This is not a bad idea. However one of the suggested cuts is for $7 million dollars from the Department of the Interior. We are also told that the Department of the Interior plans to help meet those cuts by reducing the fish hatcheries in the Southeast Region. This would in effect close down the Greers Ferry Hatchery and perhaps the Norfork and others.

We are not against budget cuts, however the trout fishing industry in Arkansas returns a great deal more economically than the costs of operation. If we lose these hatcheries, trout fishing in Arkansas will be devastated and the impact to our economy will be huge. It does not make sense to cut out funding for programs that return far more than they cost. Whether or not you fish or not, this is not a good decision.

Please contact your Senators and representatives and let them know how you feel about this issue ASAP.

River, Current River and Eleven Point River. All are streams of mostly gravel bottoms. The nearby Black River, though, has primarily a mud bottom and does not have many walleye. Saline River in central Arkansas is good for walleye.

For bait, walleye fishermen usually think minnows. They use something resembling a minnow for artificial lures, and they may use live minnows, sometimes in combination with a lure or a jighead. Anglers tend to use the larger trotline minnows rather than smaller crappie minnows for walleye fishing. Night crawlers and small bream also are used as walleye bait.

In the shallow water of shoals and feeder streams, live minnows can be worked with or without bobbers. Some walleye seekers use a swivel with a short line leading to a bottom-bumping weight and another short line to the hook with the minnow.

This lets the minnow float off the bottom.

Lures like a Rebel Jointed Minnow are usually cast upstream on shoals then retrieved back to the boat. They also can be angled across the shallow water area, then retrieved. Most walleye fishermen do not cast downstream from above the shoals.

Walleye do not slam into a lure or a bait like a largemouth bass does. Instead, the fisherman usually feels a tug or detects a weight when the line is tightened. When hooked, the walleye tends to head to deeper water. Some anglers set the hook hard when they get a walleye bite. Others just raise the rod tip sharply. Mouths of walleye are not tender like those of crappie.

The daily limit for walleye in Arkansas is six, but there are exceptions. On Beaver Lake, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake and Norfork Lake, it’s four a day with a minimum length limit of 18 inches.

On Bull Shoals Lake and Norfork Lake, it is four a day of any length. On Greers Ferry Lake, there is a protected slot limit of 20-28 inches and only one walleye longer than 28 inches can be kept per day.

John Boozman – 202-224-4843 boozman.senate.gov/contact_form.cfm Mark Pryor – 202-224-2353 pryor.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=ContactMe Rep. Rick Crawford (R-1st) 1408 Longworth House Office Building (202) 225-4076; 225-5602 Jonesboro: (870) 972-4600 http://crawford.house.gov/ Rep. Tim Griffin (R-2nd) 1232 Longworth House Office Building (202) 225-2506; 225-5903 Little Rock: (501) 324-5941 http://griffin.house.gov/ Rep. Steve Womack (R-3rd) 1508 Longworth House Office Building (202) 225-4301; 225-5713 Fort Smith: (479) 424-1146 http://womack.house.gov Rep. Michael Ross (D-4th) 314 Cannon House Office Building (202) 225-3772; 225-1314 Pine Bluff: (870) 536-3376 http://www.house.gov/ross

Boating check list heads off problems LITTLE ROCK – The weather is warming, and thousands of Arkansans are anxious to get into their boats and head out for fishing, skiing and other recreational activities on the water.

Are they ready? Do they have a check system before launching and pulling away from the dock?

Early in the warm-weather season, some boaters may rush to get on the water and overlook details that could cause trouble. Beginning boaters, too, need to check over these details that may not be familiar to them, says Capt. Stephanie Weatherington, boating law administrator with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

“Safe and enjoyable boating is mostly common sense,” Weatherington said. “There are rules and laws, but such little things like forgetting to put the plug in your boat before launching can create major headaches.”

A basic check list for boaters before leaving home: • Boat registration: Is your boat registered and is the registration current? Is the trailer license current?

• Gasoline: If the gas in the boat tank has been there since last season, replace it with fresh fuel. You don’t want to get out on a lake when moisture in the fuel suddenly stops the engine.

• Life jackets: Is there one in the boat for every person who will be aboard?

• Steering cable: Turn the boat steering wheel and make sure the motor turns with it.

• Lights: Make sure all the lights on the boat are working. You may be planning a daylight-only outing, but something could delay you until nightfall. Check the trailer’s lights also.

• Fire extinguisher: Make sure it is charged.

• Wheel bearings: Before your first outing of the season, pull off the caps on the trailer wheels and check the grease. This is a critical, but often overlooked item on trailers.

• Check the weather: If a storm is forecast, you may want to change plans.

• Cell phone: Take one if at all possible. They don’t function in some remote areas, but they work most places in Arkansas.

• Supplies: In addition to fishing gear or swim items, take along drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a first aid kit.

At the launch ramp: • Make sure the drain plug is firmly in place in the boat.

• Check the motor kill switch if your boat has one.

• Set the parking brake on the vehicle towing the boat.

• Unhook the trailer lights from the towing vehicle.

• Take tie-down straps off the boat so the trailer doesn’t float.

• Put on life jackets even if not required by law. It’s the safe thing to do.

“If boaters spend just a little time getting ready to go, they will save some headaches, not to mention possibly their lives, once they get on the water,” Weatherington said.

14 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

AWF Hitting the Trails to Help

by Wayne Shewmake & Jerry Shields The Arkansas Wildlife Federation (AWF) has been doing more to get involved in outdoor activities to improve habitat and Arkansas Natural Resources. On March 12th AWF organized a volunteer group made up of students from one of our newest affiliates, the Arkansas Tech University Fisheries & Wildlife Society along with members of the AWF Board of Directors and other AWF members and volunteer helpers to work on a part of the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOVIT).

A group known as the Traildog Volunteers, which is made up of retired individuals, has been constructing the sixth section of the Lake Ouachita Vista for the past two months. Progress on this 3.25 mile addition has been slowed by four snowstorms and numerous rainstorms but their persistence has paid off as they near completion on this section of the trail.

The new section runs from the entrance to the Crystal Springs Campground for one mile south along Crystal Springs Road, where it crosses the road. Once east of the road, the trail fords the spring-fed Crystal Creek.

The volunteers will construct an innovative “Boulder Ford” using large three and fourfoot long boulders to create a more natural crossing rather than a wooden bridge. Some Trailsdogs were overheard discussing “how beautiful the boulder ford will look.”

The Traildog Volunteers have completed a two-mile trail from the creek crossing up and over Little Bear Mountain before dropping down into the valley at the foot of the towering Big Bear Mountain. This twomile stretch has unprecedented views of the Crystal Springs Bay of Lake Ouachita.

Once completed, this sixth section of the Vista trail will stretch over twenty fivemiles from its beginning at Denby Bay. After six years of construction led by a handful of volunteers, the trail is approaching its final couple of years of construction that will terminate at the Blakely Mountain Dam that forms Lake Ouachita. This year, a number of new volunteers have been a welcome addition to the construction efforts and have made it possible to push the trail forward despite the weather.

The group of 3 students from Arkansas Tech University Fisheries & Wildlife Society, along with 8 members of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation, volunteered to drive down to provide some much needed help on the trail. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers provided free camping for the volunteers Friday night and Mountain Harbor Resort treated the visitors to a complimentary evening meal at the resort café.

The workers said the food was great and the resort kept the food coming. The AWF would like to say “Thank you” for both groups’ generosity and support.

Traildog volunteers Jerry Shields, Al Gathright, Derwood

Water Association Elects Officers-Presents Awards At its annual meeting held Dec. 15 at the Fayetteville Town Center, the Northwest District of the Arkansas Water Works and Water Environment Association elected the following officers for 2011: Nancy Busen of Bentonville Wastewater Treatment Plant, Chair; Stacy Cheevers of Beaver Water

District, (based in Lowell and supplies drinking water to Northwest Arkansas), Vice Chair; and Tim Luther of CH2M Hill, Secretary-Treasurer.

Additionally, the following were presented with awards: Michael Mathis, P.E. of Big Clifty Water received the award for Water

Brett, Robert Cavanaugh and Mike Curran gave up a Saturday to lead these visitors in their construction efforts. The combined fifteen-member team completed a third of a mile of new trail in only five hours, or a total of 55 man hours of work, leaving only a halfmile of unfinished trail for this year’s dig.

AWF would like to thank Mount Ida Subway, who furnished the visitors a complimentary trail lunch of sandwiches, chips & chocolate chip cookies that was enjoyed by all, and is very much appreciated by the group. It was a very good day to be outside as temperatures rose into the high 70’s.

The influx of new volunteers this year is another sign of the growing popularity of this

new trail. The trail offers yet another way for area residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Lake Ouachita and the lush National Forest that surround the clear waters of the lake.

With the arrival of spring the various sections of the trail offer a unique opportunity to view the first early blooms of wildflowers and blooming trees in their woodland settings. So take a Sunday afternoon hike on our area’s newest attraction. Maps of the various sections of the trail; including the “Watchable Wildlife” section, which is a combination of an asphalt trail that connects with a gorgeous wooden bridge for handicap accessibility, are available for free on the trail’s website http://www.

LakeOuachitaVistaTrail.org/.

220 Hwy 270 W Mount Ida, AR 71957 870-867-4998

Operator less than 5000 population. Shawn Dorman of Springdale Water Utilities received the award for Water Operator more than 5000 population. Mark Johnson of Rogers Water Utilities took the Manager of the Year Water Award. Big Clifty Water took the Small System Award for Water. Laboratory Professional in Water went to Jayce Branson of the City of Fayetteville. James Boston of the City of Decatur received Wastewater Operator less than 5000 population award.

Adam McClymont of CH2M Hill received

the award for Wastewater Operator more than 5000 population. Earl Rausch of Rogers Water Utilities took the award for Manager of the Year Wastewater. The City of Decatur received the Small System Award for Wastewater. Patrick Pruitt of Rogers Water Utilities received the award for Laboratory Professional Wastewater, and Denise Georgiou of CH2M Hill received the award for Pretreatment Professional. Visit http://www. nwd-awwwea.org for more information. Or e-mail nbusen@bentonvillear.com.

Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 15

Colleges Join AWF

by Al Wolff

Arkansas Wildlife Federation has been busy recruiting some young blood and potential leaders for AWF’s future. During the work on Phase I of the Bearcat Hollow Project, back in September 2010, students from Russellville’s Arkansas Tech University Fisheries & Wildlife Society (ATUFWS) camped out with AWF volunteers and assisted with the pulling up of old rusty fence, fence posts and clearing of the land to enrich the habitat. Some students returned during the last week of February 2011 to finalize Phase I by cleaning up a one-mile trek along Richland Creek.

3 of the students participated in Mid-March in helping out on the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (see “AWF Hitting the Trails” article this issue). Their club also became an official Affiliate Member of AWF. On February 15, 2011, Wayne Shewmake, president of AWF, and Ethan Nahté visited University of the Ozarks in Clarksville. Jamie Lewis Hedges, Director of Outdoor & Environmental Experiences invited AWF to come speak with students and faculty about what AWF does and what we could do to help Ozarks Outdoors, the umbrella program that includes the student organizations (i.e. Planet Club, The Outbackers, and Arkansas’ first intercollegiate competitive Shooting Sports Team) & other Academic projects and how we could help them achieve some of their goals in return.

Shewmake & Nahté first met with University of the Ozarks president Dr. Rick Niece, executive vice-president Steven Edmisten & Hedges, speaking about what AWF has accomplished over the years, including recent projects and future plans for 2011. The university told us of the renovations they are doing to a house across the street from the campus that will be utilized as an office & educational center for Ozarks Outdoors students, a program that Hedges leads. Plans for the house landscaping may include a rain garden, water harvesting project, demonstration garden or community garden.

Hedges and Kirk Ross took us on a tour of the house and

a tour of the walking trail that the group is building near the campus that also includes a small pond that could be used for teaching fishing skills. AWF had suggestions on how we could help them with obtaining certain grants to fulfill their needs to finalize some of their restoration, trail building and other projects.

Shewmake presented a PowerPoint presentation to more than 50 student and faculty members, educating them about AWF and how our efforts are not only beneficial to the present, but for future generations. He explained not only could they participate in projects with AWF but for those who want to become educators there are opportunities to learn things that can be taught to younger generations. The presentation was followed by a Q&A session and a meet-and-greet where AWF handed out many copies of various issues of Arkansas Outof-Doors and spoke more in-depth about hands-on projects we are currently doing that they could help on.

Shewmake & Nahté were also special guests at a luncheon that University of the Ozarks held that included some faculty and campus student leaders, many of whom wanted to become biologists and others who wanted to serve in some capacity of science or public relations to help conservation of nature and wildlife. A lot of great questions were asked over the course of a delicious meal of chicken cordon bleu and side items.

University of the Ozarks also joined as an Affiliate Member of AWF. In addition, AWF donated approximately a dozen animal prints taken from our archive library that the university will frame and place in their education facility.

If you’re school or college would like to find out more about AWF does and how your school or organization within your school, Scout group, church group, etc. can become a member and participate in some of our projects or start your own projects, contact us @ 501-224-9200 or arkwf@sbcglobal. net for more information and to reserve an appearance date.

We would be happy to come speak with you.

Gibbs & Bright Team Winners of Crow-Nanza

By Andy Thomas On Saturday, February 19th, the Yell County Wildlife Federation (YCWF) sponsored their 10th Annual Crow-Nanza. Crow-Nanza is a crow hunting tournament and a fund raiser for YCWF’s area youth projects. Participants enjoyed a hearty breakfast and hit the fields at daylight for a challenging day of crow hunting.

This year had a new format as the two-man teams were allowed and encouraged to have a youth hunter to assist them. The tournament is much like a bass tournament as teams pay an entry fee and compete against each other

on the number of birds harvested. At the “count-in” the team that harvests the most crows is declared the winner.

This year the winning team was Nathan Gibbs from Belleville, AR and Brock Knight from Danville, AR taking first place and club bragging rights with a total of 27 crows.

YCWF would like give a special thanks to

Turkey season program scheduled for nature center LITTLE ROCK – What kind of turkey season will we have? Is the turkey population increasing or decreasing in Arkansas? Which parts of the state have the most promise for this season? Are they gobbling yet?

Those are just a few of the questions hunters may have answered during a free turkey season outlook at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center in Little Rock.

The program will be 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., March 31. Seating for the program is limited, so call the nature center office at 501-9070636 to register.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is partnering with the National Wild Turkey Federation to present the program. NWTF biologist Dennis Daniel will speak about expectations for turkey season, current work to improve turkey habitats and populations, and will answer questions.

The nature center is in the River Market District. Free parking is available along nearby streets. A walkway next to the Museum of Discovery leads to the nature center from President Clinton Avenue.

Steve “Wildman” Wilson for attending this year’s event and filming the hunt for his TV show, Talkin’ Outdoors at the Corner Cafe.

If you missed the broadcast you can view the program online at http://www.vimeo. com/20369093/.

Why hunt crows? Crows have few natural enemies and sport hunting is an excellent way to control their population.

Crow behavior can range from mildly annoying to highly destructive. Crows are often the main culprits of agricultural bird problems due to their fondness for corn and other crops, especially when newly planted. They are scavengers and will eat a wide variety of things including bird eggs, insects, small snakes, frogs, mice, garbage and road kill. Egg depredation by crows has a negative effect on songbird and wood duck populations. When songbirds and wood ducks begin nesting crows discover their nests and will often

break open and eat the eggs; and many times they will return and devour the fledglings. These highly intelligent birds are very social and the flock is in constant communication with each other making them a real challenge for hunters.

If you’d like to learn more about crow hunting visit http://www.crowbusters.com/.

If you would like to take part in next year’s Yell County Wildlife Federation Crow-Nanza call 479-970-7944 for more information.

16 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

AWF ANNUAL GOVENORS ACHIEVEMENTS AWARDS PROGRAM for 2011 The following awards are open for nomination:

HAROLD ALEXANDER CONSERVATION of the YEAR AWARD

The highest conservation achievement award presented by the Arkansas Wildlife Federation is given in memory of Harold Alexander - one of the foremost authorities and experts in Arkansas on conservation activities. ___________________________________________________

CONSERVATION COMMUNICATOR of the YEAR AWARD

Any environmental conservation organization understands the importance of publicity and media support to educate the general public about important issues regarding the environment. The Arkansas Wildlife Federation selects annually an individual or organization that has provided outstanding media news articles or programs that keep the general public informed of environmental issues and needs that impact The Natural State. ___________________________________________________

Dr. JOHN L. GRAY FORESTRY CONSERVATION of the YEAR AWARD

In June 2007, Arkansas lost a giant in the forestry field with the death of Dr. John L. Gray. Dr. Gray served on the Arkansas Wildlife Federation Board of Directors for many years and chaired the Forestry Committee. At the July 2007 AWF Board meeting, the Forestry of the Year Award was renamed in memory of Dr. Gray. ___________________________________________________

Water Conservationist of the Year Award

REX HANDCOCK WILDLIFE CONSERVATION of the YEAR AWARD

Rex Hancock was one of Arkansas’s premier wildlife conservationists who worked tirelessly on behalf of wildlife and wildlife habitats in the White River and Grand Prairie region of Eastern Arkansas. The Arkansas Wildlife Federation has named this special award in memory of Dr. Rex Hancock for his outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation in Arkansas. ___________________________________________________

AWF PRESIDENT AWARD

The President’s Award is presented to an AWF volunteer or Board Member in recognition of their contribution, achievements or service to the Federation. It is intended to recognize those persons who have gone above and beyond the call of duty and contributed value to the Federation and its conservation mission. ___________________________________________________

Corporate Conservationist of the Year Award ___________________________________________________

Student Conservation Contest Award Recipients ___________________________________________________

Conservationist Organization of the Year Award

The following awards will also be presented at this years program, but nominations must be submitted through the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission.

Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award

Boating Education Instructor of the Year Award

The following information is required to nominate an individual for the awards listed above. Please fill out the form in it’s entirity, and submit to the address below, along with a detailed description of why your nominee should receive their award, and any other necessary articles supporting your nominee.

NAME OF NOMINEE: ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� AWARD: ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� NOMINEE'S ADDRESS: ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

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NOMINATED BY: ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

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PHONE:___________________________________________________________ EMAIL: ����������������������������������������������������������������

All nomination must be mailed to AWF by June 15, 2011 to be considered. AWF, 9108 Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 101, Little Rock, Ar. 72205, 501-224-9200

Please nominate someone you know, or pass this on to anyone you feel may nominate someone.

Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 17

Elk hunters notch 30 successes in December hunt

PONCA - For the first time in 13 years of Arkansas elk hunting, the private land portion accounted for more of the big and majestic animals than the public land segment.

The five-day December elk hunt ended with 30 taken by hunters. Eleven were taken on public land, and 19 were taken on private land.

Most of the private land elk were taken in Searcy County, not far from busy U.S. Highway 65 north of Marshall. The expanding elk herd was beginning to be a concern in this area, which includes Bear Creek and “the racetrack” alongside the highway.

The private land hunt was in two divisions. There was a quota of 13 antlerless, usually cow, elk. This quota was filled on the fourth day of the hunt. There were 10 permits for either sex elk, and hunters with these permits took six bull elk.

Of the 19 private land elk, 16 were in Searcy County and three in Newton County.

On the public land hunt, 23 hunters had permits won in random drawings in late June at the Buffalo River Elk Festival in Jasper. Of these permits, 11 hunters got elk.

The most productive portion of the public land hunt was the newest area - the Richland Valley Sonny Varnell Elk Conservation Area, which is an addition to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area. Nine of the 11 elk taken on public land came from this vicinity.

These nine elk were taken in compartment 3 and compartment 4 of the public land hunt. Two elk were taken in compartment 1, which is upstream from Arkansas Highway 7 along the Buffalo River. None was taken in Compartment 2.

The 11 public land elk included six cows and five bulls. The successful public land hunters were: • Patrick Nabholz of Conway, 5X6 bull, compartment 3.

• Johnny Huffman of Lonoke, cow, compartment 3.

• Patrick Schrable of Gepp, cow, compartment 3.

• Ticker Windley of Searcy, 7X7 bull, compartment 3.

• Denver Clark of Siloam Springs, cow, compartment 3.

• Alton Tounsand of Jonesboro, cow, compartment 1.

• Martin Lee Walt of Dumas (pictured above), 3X3 bull, compartment 3.

• Marvin Townsend of De Queen, cow, compartment 4.

• Cayce Landers of Benton, cow, compartment 3.

• Krista Miller Nisly of Harrison, 5X7 bull, compartment 4.

• James Grimes of Hot Springs, spike bull. compartment 1.

The public land participants hunted with free permits they won after submitting applications, also free, during May. Only Arkansas residents can apply, and each year several thousand send in applications hoping to win one of the coveted permits.

After winning a permit, hunters receive detailed instructions from the AGFC, including advice to scout in the rugged mountain country before the hunt arrives. Hunters must attend an orientation the day before the hunts, one in late September and one in early December, begin. The application period for the 2011 elk hunts on public land will begin May 1, 2011.

The successful private land hunters were Patrick DePriest, Steve Padilla, Joel Brasell, Johnny Fowler, Bill Martin and Derek Spinks with bull elk, and Charles McDaniel, Brandon McAfee, Theresa Warren, Larry Housley, Vernon Walters, Barry Bryant, Terry Woods, Lonnie McMahan, Robert Woods, Pat Connors, Johnny Neel, Judy McCutcheon and Travis Luyet with cow elk.

Elk hunting began in Arkansas in 1998 after the restoration of the animals began in 1981. An estimated 500 elk live in the Buffalo River country, most on Buffalo National River land, including easements, and on the AGFC’s Gene Rush WMA.

Arkansas Wildlife Federation 9108 Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 101, Little Rock, Ar. 72205 Telephone: (501) 224-9200

Fax: (501) 224-9214

“Your voice for hunting, fishing and conservation since 1936” Arkansas Out-Of-Doors Advertising Agreement Arkansas Out-Of-Doors is the official publication of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation established in 1936, a non-profit, hunting, fishing, and conservation organization dedicated to promoting the wise stewardship of our natural resources. It is a newsprint tabloid publication that is published 6 times per year for the following issues: Jan.-Feb., March-April, MayJune, July-Aug., Sept.-Oct., Nov.-Dec. The publication contains information about hunting, fishing and other outdoor-oriented activities. It also contains articles about conservation. It is mailed near the end of the first month of each issue date to approximately 4500 AWF members and it has an estimated readership of 13,500 to 17,500 people each issue. Those who read this publication enjoy the great outdoor, and they are interested in conservation.

Circle the issue in which the ad is to run: January – February issue, reserve space by Jan. 1. Cameraready art due Jan. 5. Mailing date near the end of January.

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Color Include One spot color, additional Four color, additional

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(all sizes listed as Width x Height)

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Advertising layout and space: Advertising may send a slick or a black and white copy of a previous ad, a negative for black and white ads, a color key and four-color separations for color ads, or ads may be sent on a disk on CD (PDF, JPEG or EPS) to the Arkansas Wildlife Federation. We utilize 90-line screen, right reading, emulsion down. The AWF can assist in making the ad for the client. Depending on amount of time to layout ad, there may be additional fees for this.

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Ad confirmed by (print and signature) ����������������������������������������������������

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18 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

January/February 2011 ISSN0884-9145 POSTMASTER: Send form 3579 to: 9108 Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 101, Little Rock, Ar. 72205

Arkansas Wildlife Federation Officers and Board of Directors August 31, 2010 to September 1, 2011

Arkansas Out-of-Doors

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ARKANSAS WILDLIFE FEDERATION Arkansas Out-of-Doors is published 6 times per year by Arkansas Wildlife Federation, 9108 Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 101, Little Rock, Ar. 72205. Third Class postage paid at Russellville, AR and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address change to Arkansas Out-ofDoors, 9108 Rodney Parham Rd. Suite 101, Little Rock, Ar. 72205, or call 501-224-9200.

This is the official publication of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation. Printed matter includes hunting and fishing news, sporting information, articles on pertinent legislation, with special emphasis on environment and pollution problems. All Arkansas Wildlife Federation members are entitled to receive one copy of each issue of AOOD for one year.

Permission is granted to reprint any news article or item printed in Arkansas Out-Of-Doors with credit, please.

Editor ����������������������������������������������������������������� Ethan Nahté Editor in Chief ����������������������������������������� Wayne Shewmake Layout/Design ������������������������������������������Chris Zimmerman ZimCreative Views and opinions, unless specifically stated, do not necessarily represent the positions of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation.

Executive Committee President: Wayne Shewmake, Dardanelle 1st Vice President: Ellen McNulty, Pine Bluff 2nd Vice President: Larry Hillyard, Dardanelle Treasurer: Gary W. Bush, Marion Secretary: Lucien Gillham, Sherwood Acting Executive Director: Ethan Nahté MEMBERS-at-Large Jim Wood, Dardanelle Gayne Preller Schmidt, Augusta Board of Directors At Large Dr. John T. Ahrens, Mountain Home Fred Berry, Yellville Robert Leasure, Bradford Charles W. Logan, M.D., Little Rock Lola Perritt, Little Rock Odies Wilson III, Little Rock Jimmie Wood, Dardanelle Gayne Schmidt, Augusta A.J. Gilbert, Little Rock Jimmy Witt, Dardanelle Bobby Hacker, Little Rock Regional Directors District 1: --vacant-District 2: Patti Dell-Duchene, Augusta District 2 Alternate: Angela Rhodes, Augusta District 3: Jeff Belk, Fayetteville District 4: Trey Clark, Nashville District 5: Mary Lou Lane, Dardanelle District 6: Neal Galloway, Stuttgart District 7: Craig Mobley, Magnolia NWF Region: David Carruth, Clarendon NWF Special Projects: Ellen McNulty, Pine Bluff NWF Regional Representative: Geralyn Hoey, Austin, TX

Deadline Information:

President Emeritus and First Lady Emeritus: Bob and Rae Apple, Dardanelle

Unless other arrangements are made with the editor, copy for club news, features, columns and advertising must be in the Arkansas Wildlife Federation office by the close of business (noon) on the 20th of the month preceding publication. Thank you for your cooperation.

National Wildlife Federation Delegates: Jim Wood, Dardanelle Alternate: Gayne Preller Schmidt, Augusta

ADVISOR TO PRESIDENT Ralph Oldegard, Mt. Home Larry Hedrick, Hot Springs Charles McLemore Jr., Bryant Affiliate Clubs: ATU Fisheries & Wildlife Society Sarah Chronister, President Creative Ideas President: Sharon Hacker Little Rock, AR Greene County Wildlife Club Little River Bottoms Chapter, Arkansas Wildlife Federation Vickers Fuqua, President, Trumann Mike Young, Secretary & Treasurer, Trumann University of the Ozarks - Clarksville Jamie L. Hedges, Director of Outdoor & Evironmental Experiences Westark Wildlife G. David Matlock, Fort Smith White River Conservancy Gayne Preller Schmidt, Augusta Yell County Wildlife Federation Wayne Shewmake, Dardanelle Youth Conservation Club of Mansfield High School Sponsors: Tracey Sadoski & Bryan McKay, Mansfield Youth Conservation Club of Lavaca High School Sponsor: Jimmy Reynolds, Lavaca Arkansas Wildlife Federation Staff Editor - Ethan Nahté Editor in Chief - Wayne Shewmake Contributing Writers – Wayne Shewmake, Gary Bush, Ethan Nahté, Lola Perritt, AGFC Contributing Photographers – Tim Carr, Ethan Nahté, Kyla Kane Arkansas Wildlife Federation Address: 9108 Rodney Parham Road, Suite 101 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205 Office: 501-224-9200 Cell: 501-414-2845

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Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011 - 19

Eagle Tour on the Lake

by Ethan Nahté On a relatively cold morning of 22 degrees but no wind, fortunately, I joined Sasha Bowles, Park Interpreter at Lake Dardanelle State Park (LDSP), along with photographer Kyla Kane and an elderly couple on their second bald eagle (Haleaeetus leucocephalus) tour of the week. Bowles has been with LDSP since 2004, becoming an Interpreter in 2007. She holds a B.S. degree in Fisheries & Wildlife Biology from Arkansas Tech University.

Although her tours and presentations vary throughout the year, from October through February she spends a lot of time taking visitors on a tour of the 34,300 acre lake situated in the Arkansas River Valley on the Arkansas River.

There are other boat cruises on the lake where one can see great blue herons, snowy egrets, mallards, pelicans, seagulls, snow geese, Canada geese, belted kingfishers and a slough of other waterfowl.

“Some days you can go out and see six or eight eagles. Eight is the most I’ve seen at any given time,” said Bowles. “The population seems to have grown since I first began, but it may be that I’ve just gotten better at finding and recognizing them.”

We had the fortune of seeing three immature bald eagles and three mature bald eagles, including a nesting pair sitting on two bare branches of a tall tree overlooking the lake, observing a barge passing by with Arkansas Nuclear One in the background. Their partially destroyed nest was about 300 yards east of the perch they were using to hunt for fish and on one occasion chasing after a crane.

“Their nest was partially destroyed by a lightning strike,” said Bowles. “I’m hoping they’ll rebuild and not move.”

If you wonder why the tours and annual eagle counts are done in the winter, in the south bald eagles tend to begin nesting around December and January to mate and lay their eggs. The male and female help to incubate the eggs for 34-35 days.

Then the eaglets remain in the nest for another 1213 weeks before they take their first flight.

Bowles utilizes a high-powered set of binoculars to sight the eagles across the lake from the dock. She’s familiar enough to know most of their haunts, floating up within camera range very slowly. Still, our national symbol isn’t always easy to capture on film, especially the juveniles.

They aren’t as familiar with the people and boats, despite the fair amount of distance between them and the photographers, flying off in a hurry to another tree way down shore, soaring over a small herd of a dozen deer walking just behind the cover of pine and oak trees along the shoreline.

Of course while waiting to find bald eagles there are literally hundreds of birds swimming, fishing and flying about making for a photographer or bird watcher’s hour of bliss while comfortable riding on the free hour-long tour. As an Interpreter, Bowles is very informed about the variety of bird species, their roosting habits, etc., making for a very educational tour.

Arkansas State Parks has plenty of bald eagle tours and educational seminars throughout the entire state each year. You can keep up with what’s currently happening or keep your eyes open come late summer for a new schedule of eagle tours at LDSP by visiting http://www.

ArkansasStateParks.com/LakeDardanelle/ or calling 479-967-5516.

You can also find out more about midwinter eagle counts, nest monitoring programs and junior eagle clubs by visiting the Eagle Nature Foundation. http://www.eaglenature.com/programs.html/

Immature eagle flying

Eagle nest

Our guide, Sasha Bowles

Lake Dardanelle Visitors & Tourism Center

20 - Arkansas Out-of-Doors • January/February 2011

MEMORIAL GIFTS & HONORARIUM Remember Loved Ones "Forever"

You can remember a loved one with a memorial gift or honorarium to the Arkansas Wildlife Federation.

Memorial gifts: If you would like to remember someone who loved wildlife, and the great outdoors of Arkansas, you can make a gift in that person’s name. What a beautiful tribute to their memory. Your memorial gift will continue the work of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation and keep a loved one’s spirit alive through wildlife conservation.

Honorarium Gift: Are you puzzled what to give friends or family members who “have everything?” Will an ordinary gift just not be enough? Then, consider making a donation to the Arkansas Wildlife Federation in their honor and acknowledge their special day, birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or whatever they are celebrating. Your gift is a special recognition to this individual or family in support of wildlife conservation programs. Gifts of $ 100 or more will receive wildlife print. All donations will receive a tax deductible receipt.

Make a Difference “Forever Memorials or Honorariums” Right Now by Completing this Information Below:

Name of honoree_____________________________________________________________ Name of donor______________________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________________________ Address_ __________________________________________________________________

City_________________________________State_____________ Zip Code_ _____________ City_ _______________________________ State_____________Zip Code______________

Visa_________ Master Card_ ___________ Credit Card #_____________________________________________________________ Expiration Date______________________________

Memorial______ Honorarium_ ____________ Amount of Gift $_ _____________________ *The Arkansas Wildlife Federation can accept checks, and Master Charge or VISA Credit Cards *

Designation of Gift_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for supporting wildlife conservation! Send to: AWF, 9108 Rodney Parham Rd., Suite 101, Little Rock, Ar. 72205; or call 501-224-9200