Fall Outdoor Activities Guide - Smithville Lake, Missouri by Marty Novak

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Smithville Lake OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

2019

Hunting & Fishing Lake Fees Detailed Lake Map Calendar of Events Walking, Biking & Horse Trails Facility Upgrades

Car Care Centers • Transmission Service • A/C Service • Tires • Trailer Tires • Brakes • Oil Changes 169 92 144th St.

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SMITHVILLE

14143 Earthworks Drive, Smithville, MO 64089

816-532-4600

Mon.-Fri. 7 am-6 pm, Sat. 7 am-3 pm 75122441

Tires and Service www.huntscarcare.com

JAMESPORT BUILDERS 660-684-6931

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INDEX

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

WELCOME Discover Smithville this fall................................ 5 Calendar of events............................................. 6 New & Improved: Facility upgrades continue...... 8 Jerry L. Litton Center welcomes you.................... 9 RECREATION Lake golf complex gets $3 million upgrade......10 Paradise Pointe home to 2 unique courses......12 Disc golf triples fun..........................................13 Blazing a trail..................................................14 Bike repair stations..........................................16 Saddle up for a scenic ride..............................17 11 miles of mountain biking paths at lake.......17 ATVs not allowed..............................................17 Shelters available at Smithville Lake................18 Swim beaches closed until next spring.............19 Rules for pets at the lake.................................19 Plenty of camping options................................20

Trapshooters Association continues tradition...24 MAP.......................................................22-23 HUNTING Hunter education courses online.....................24 When hunter orange is required.......................24 Deer season stretches from Nov. to Jan............26 Fall turkey hunting season available................28 How to Telecheck turkey, deer..........................29 Hunters should invest in first aid kit.................30 Permits required for Missouri hunters..............31 Poaching penalties increase............................31 FISHING Winter ice, dock fishing open in Smithville ......32 Christmas trees provide fish habitat.................32 Crappie regulation change...............................33

BOATING Drop your anchor at one of 3 marinas..............34 Floating restaurant returns to lake...................34 Ramp locations: Where to launch.....................35 Rentals, entrance and dock fees......................37 Don’t leave without a life jacket.......................38 Be educated before boating.............................38 Store boating tools, supplies for winter............39 NATURE Lake area ideal for bird watching.....................40 Bald eagles return in winter.............................40 Cleaning up lake takes effort by all..................41 Unauthorized dumping illegal..........................41 SAFETY Emergency and helpful numbers......................42

Directory of Advertisers AUTOMOTIVE Hunt’s Car Care.................................................. 2 Pro Carwash.....................................................36 Wright Automotive............................................43

Morton Buildings.............................................15 Packs Hardware...............................................39 Pence Heating & Cooling..................................41 Picture Perfect Lawn Care................................29

BOATS/CAMPERS/RVs Liberty RV........................................................33 Smithville Marine.............................................28 U.S. Boatworks.................................................32 CHURCH Family Worship Center........................................ 9

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES ABC-123 Learning Center.................................34 Courier-Tribune..........................................25, 26 Grant’s Repair..................................................31 Law Offices of James P. Deffet..........................35 Nadler’s...........................................................11 Platte Valley Bank............................................38

ENTERTAINMENT/RECREATION Kansas City Trapshooters Association...............19 Ladoga Ridge Winery........................................27 Paradise Pointe Golf Complex..........................33

REAL ESTATE Show Me Real Estate - Tammy Liber.................18 Show Me Real Estate - Talley & Associated Auction Services .............................................37

HOME IMPROVEMENT/LAWN & GARDEN Boss Sheds........................................................ 7 Coulter Excavating...........................................42 Greene’s Excavating.........................................39 Jamesport Builders............................................ 3 Major Lumber................................................. 41

RESTAURANTS Chop’s BBQ & Catering.....................................31 Family Traditions Café......................................37 Kozak’s Laketown Grill.....................................30 Pizza Shoppe...................................................43

SHOPPING Atchison Outfitters...........................................39 Cuckoo Charlie’s Clocks...................................41 James Country Mercantile................................35 Jeans Flowers & Gifts.......................................41 Pony Designs...................................................26 Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce.............21 STORAGE 169 Storage....................................................36 Waits High & Dry Self Storage..........................13

The 2019 Smithville Lake Fall Outdoors guide is published by the Courier-Tribune, a division of NPG Newspapers, Inc. 104 N. Main St. Liberty, MO 64068 Phone: 816-454-9660 www.MyCourierTribune.com

WELCOME

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Discover Smithville this fall A city “Thriving Ahead” is how Smithville prefers to be known as that is the city’s motto. Growing and moving forward, each year brings new things to the booming community. In the past year, the city has worked hard to provide improved infrastructure for residents and visitors alike. To date, work has been done to replace Second and Wilkerson Creek bridges, a streetscape in the downtown historic district has been completed and repaving of Amory Road has taken place. Smithville is also a hive of development activity. Homes are being added to subdivisions in Lake Meadows, Villas of Smithville and Estates at the Ranch to welcome more families to the city. Commercially, dirt has begun to move on Smithville Marketplace, a development that will feature a new Price Chopper grocery store, urgent care facility and home improvement store. There is also a new coffee purveyor, DJ’s Express Coffee, located on southbound U.S. Highway 169 that has become popular with area travelers. Other new city amenities

year, using its boat launches, enjoying a water fowl refuge and participating in water sports. There are over 800 campsites; reservable shelters; two fullservice marinas, one offering boat rentals; a sailboat-only marina; storage; two golf courses; and 80 miles of trails — 37 miles of asphalt trails, 11.5 miles Courier-Tribune Photo of biking trails and 32 miles of Paradise Pointe Marina has added a floating restaurant to its offerings equestrian trails. that will provide hot and cold items to customers all season next year. Lake facility upgrades underway or completed this year include new playground equipmaster facilities plan to accom- include electrical improvements ment in Main Street’s Heritage modate schools that continue to to campgrounds, shore Park, located downtown. boom with students. stabilization, new playground Another fresh park feature is Looking forward, the city equipment in Little Platte Park, produce. Smithville is the only is also developing a strategic irrigation system replacement at city in the area beginning a stra- plan that will guide the path to golf courses and trail tegic plan to create a self-suswhat residents want the city to improvements. taining food system through a become over time. Community A new floating restaurant has partnership with the University of input is being compiled on how also arrived. Located at Paradise Missouri Extension. The Missouri the city can modernize while Pointe Marina, the restaurant will Engage Act Transform pilot proj- maintaining its small-town be open for its first full season in ect will start planting community charm. 2020. It will provide hot and cold gardens for residents in need. Being home to many Clay favorites as well as deliver pizza Smithville School District, County parks and recreation to those on the lake having too home to U.S. News and World areas, Smithville Lake is also much fun to leave their boats. Report’s second best high undergoing significant changes. Whether you are considering a school in the state, completThe lake, a 7,190-acre reservoir, move, day visit or weeklong ed its first year this year with was created after a devastating vacation, dive into Smithville a new school: Eagle Heights summer flood in 1965. Lake and the surrounding comElementary School. The district Nowadays, more than 1.3 munity; there is something to see is currently restructuring a million people visit the lake every and do for everyone.

Courier-Tribune Photo

Houses continue to go up in the Whiskey Ridge residential development on the north end of the city, located off 176th Street.

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Calendar of Events Friday, Sept. 20

❯ Festival of Quilts — 1 to 7 p.m. at First Christian Church, 201 N. Bridge St.; 816-392-2676.

Saturday, Sept. 21 ❯ Old Fashioned Street Faire — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Courtyard Park, along the 100 block of Main Street. The fall festival mixes country fair with city flamboyance. ❯ Festival of Quilts — 1 to 7 p.m. at First Christian Church, 201 N. Bridge St.; 816-392-2676. ❯ Movie in the Park — begins with activities at 6:30 p.m. in Courtyard Park, located along the 100 block of Main Street; the movie begins at dusk.

Friday, Sept. 27 ❯ Smithville High School Homecoming — Students are released from school at 12:05 p.m. The parade route will go from the high school to the downtown Heritage District, where a pep rally will follow. The game starts at 7 p.m. ❯ 2019 Smithville Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony — 6:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center, 645 S. Commercial Ave. Honorees include Julia Bargman, Patsy Cafferata and Bradford Keeney, all graduates of Smithville High School.

Saturday, Sept. 28

WELCOME

Campground, 1601 Missouri Highway DD. The event is family friendly in the early hours and spookier in the later hours.

Saturday, Dec. 7 ❯ Candyland Christmas in Downtown Smithville — times TBA, South Gale School, 112 Church St. The Courier-Tribune Photo event includes shopping opSmithville School District homecoming parade portunities, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot cocoa, cookies and goody bags; block of Main Street; live market@gmail.com. smithvillechamber.org. music starts at 7 p.m. ❯ Backyard BBQ Bash — ❯ Lighted Christmas Parade — 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in down6 p.m. in downtown. Saturday, Oct. 5 town. ❯ Mayor’s Tree Lighting — ❯ Octoberfest — 8 a.m. to ❯ Gravel Grinder — 7 a.m. immediately following the midnight in downtown around cycling event in downtown. Lighted Christmas Parade in Courtyard Park on the 100 ❯ Movie in the Park — begins Courtyard Park. Along with block of Main Street; features with activities at 6:30 p.m. Santa, guests can enjoy hot a pancake breakfast, baby in Courtyard Park, in the 100 chocolate, shopping and contest, parade, performances block of Main Street; movie more. by Artistry in Motion and Shoot begins at dusk. for the Stars and a closing act by Casi Joy at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 Sunday, Sept. 29 ❯ Smithville Area Firefighters ❯ Candyland Christmas — 4 to ❯ Smithville Dam 5k Run/ Charity Golf Tournament — 7 p.m. at South Gale School, Walk — 8 a.m. starting at benefit for Valor Ranch ser112 Church St. Smith’s Fork Campground, vices for homeless veterans; ❯ Santa at the Firehouse — 1601 Missouri Highway DD; noon at Paradise Pointe Golf offers pictures with Santa, register at www.runreg.com/ Complex, 18212 Golf Drive; holiday wishes and treats smithville-dam-run-5k. $300 per team includes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at green fees, cart, range, food ❯ Bunco Bash — a Smithville Smithville Area Fire Protecand a $10 credit in the pro Area Chamber of Commerce tion District Station No. 2, shop; sign up by emailing fundraiser at 5 p.m. at 341 Park Drive. local4945@outlook.com. Ladoga Ridge Winery, 100 E. Pope Lane; $45 covers entry ❯ Drink Pink — benefit for fee, drink ticket, wine glass breast cancer awareness, and heavy hors d’oeuvres; 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Ladoga smithvillechamber.org. Ridge Winery, 100 E. Pope Lane.

❯ Junkville Harvest Market — Friday, Oct. 4 Saturday, Oct. 26 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown ❯ Octoberfest — 5 p.m. to midnight in downtown around ❯ Haunted Campground — 4 Smithville; a vendor market of to 7 p.m. at Smith’s Fork Courtyard Park on the 100 locally made items; junkville-

Courier-Tribune Photo

Candyland Christmas

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WELCOME

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

New & Improved Facility upgrades began last year, will continue Bond projects The following is a list of Smithville Lake county facility updates included in work being paid for with county bond funds and associated cost estimates, according to Clay County staff. ❯ Trails connection: $5 million ❯ Crack, seal, resurface 27 miles of trails on east side of Smithville Lake: $200,000 ❯ Smithville Lake shore stabilization, erosion control and rip rap: $1 million ❯ Upgrade electric at Crow’s Creek & Camp Branch campsites: $1 million ❯ Replace pipe under Picnic Arm Road at Crow’s Creek: $100,000 ❯ Replace Camp Branch shower house floor: $20,000 ❯ Replace 15 park bathroom structures: $800,000 ❯ Replace ash trees due to ash bore disease: $25,000 ❯ Little Platte boat ramp resurfacing and parking lot repairs: $100,000 ❯ Park office HVAC unit: $12,000 ❯ Beach renovations at Kelsey Short, Little Platte & Camp Branch: $25,000 ❯ Road resurfacing at Kelsey Short Camp: $30,000 ❯ Trailhead improvements: $100,000 ❯ Lagoon dredging and valve replacement at Crow’s Creek & Camp Branch: $750,000

Grounds and facilities around Smithville Lake are undergoing millions of dollars worth of updates after years of deferred maintenance left some facilities in much need of repair. “It’s really exciting and I get super excited to talk about these projects because they’re things people have been asking about for a long time,” said Assistant Clay County Administrator for Facilities Brad Garrett. “... It’s exciting that we can finally get to those things.” The following is a breakdown of major work underway. Work will continue on many projects throughout the year. Funds for projects are being mostly covered by the sale of $49 million in certificates of participation, a type of bonds, which a majority of the County Commission approved last year.

Electrical work Throughout the Smithville Lake grounds, the county maintains two campgrounds: Camp Branch, located off Collins Road; and Crow’s Creek, located off Missouri Highway E. Between the two, there are a combined 770-plus campsites. Sites include spaces for recreational vehicles with electrical hook-ups as well as primitive sites. Campgrounds and other areas throughout Smithville Lake have been getting electrical upgrades in recent months and years and are continuing to receive improvements. Electrical upgrades to Sailboat Cove Marina, located off Chapel Road; and Little Platte Marina, located in Little Platte Park off Shelter Road at the lake, commenced after Labor Day of this year. Electrical work is planned for 2020 at Camp Branch’s D Loop and Crow’s Creek’s E, F and G Loops.

Lake shore Shore erosion is also being rectified with bond funds.

Courier-Tribune Photo

One of the first county parks facility updates completed in 2019 thanks to bond funding was replacement of playground equipment in Little Platte Park at Smithville Lake. A ribbon-cutting was held for the work in April.

“Shore stabilization with rip rap will continue for a couple years,” said Assistant County Administrator Nicole Brown, calling it a top priority. Tons of beach sand has also been added to swim beaches at the lake.

Playgrounds New playground equipment in Little Platte Park, located off Shelter Road at the lake, Brown said, was a hit with children and families during a ribbon-cutting earlier this year. “It was a really successful event where we had a lot of families come out,” she said.

Trails Clay County maintains dozens of miles of trails around Smithville Lake, all of which will see improvements with bond funding. Updates include bringing all trailheads up to modern standards. Future work, being planned as part of the parks master planning process, which kicked off this summer, will include trail connectivity. “Our long-term goal, what we are working to do, is to get all miles of trails around the water at the lake connected,” said Garrett.

Other work The county is also working to construct an archery range at the Kelsey Short area of Smithville Lake off Collins Road in Smithville; and a new nature center and park office at Smithville Lake. To follow along with project progress, the county has made a bond project tracker time-line available on the transparency portal of the county’s website at www.claycountymo.gov.

WELCOME

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Jerry L. Litton Center welcomes you The recently remodeled Jerry L. Litton Visitor Center attracts thousands of visitors each year with exhibits and displays of nature and the late congressman for whom the center is named. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages Smithville Lake and the dam, also has an office at the Litton Visitor Center, located on Missouri Highway DD. The center is named after the U.S. representative who died in a plane crash in 1976. While the center was partially closed earlier this year during renovations, the entire space has reopened with upgrades and new furniture. All exhibits are again open to the public, including audiovisual presentations about the Smithville Lake area. For those visiting the lake, the Litton Center, which opened in 1984, can be a starting point to learn the lay of the land, terrain of the water and more about the area’s history. In addition to viewing exhibits, guests can talk

Courier-Tribune Photo

The Jerry L. Litton Visitor Center is open 8 am. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

to staff, learn about the waterfowl refuge or rent a community theater seating 50 for free. For more information, call the center at 816-532-0174.

A community compost station is available outside the Jerry L. Litton Visitor Center at Smithville Lake. Courier-Tribune Photo

We invite you to join us on Sundays for engaging worship and useful teaching from the word of God!

75124377

98 Stonebridge Lane, Smithville, MO 816-532-4749 Sundays @ 10:30AM Wednesdays @ 7PM Smithville Family Worship Center • www.fwcsmithville.com

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Lake golf complex gets $3 million irrigation system upgrade Paradise Pointe Golf Complex at Smithville Lake is undergoing nearly $3.7 million in upgrades that include a $3 million irrigation system at the Posse and Outlaw golf courses featuring more than 500 new sprinklers. While work is underway, neither the Posse nor Outlaw courses are being closed, but no more than four holes will be impacted at a time throughout construction. “This is a massive project that is going to make a huge difference to our facilities at the courses,” Assistant Clay County Administrator for Facilities Brad Garrett said. “... For years we’ve had issues with the irrigation system. It was really old and out of date. We are working to replace it with something that is state-of-the-art.” Work began in May and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The new system has 2,094 sprinklers averaging 52 sprinklers per hole in three rows running from tee to green, compared to the 1,497 sprinklers in the system being replaced. This allows the course superintendent to irrigate more of the golf course, including the rough. The updated work also includes the installation of 117 quick couplers. “The current system has a total of 44 quick couplers to attach hoses. As a result of limited quick couplers, there are areas not accessible with

Courier-Tribune Photo

Irrigation upgrades are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

hoses and it is common to see a hose stretched across a green while golfers approached,” states a county release. “The new system will have 161 quick couplers including one on each side of every green. This will allow the superintendent to water nearly any area on the property with a hose as needed and avoid dragging hoses across the green during play.”

Irrigation upgrades are also being conducted in an isolated way so that zebra mussels, a common nuisance at county facilities, will not be able to infiltrate to the new system as they have been an ongoing issue with parts of the old system, Garrett said. In addition to an updated irrigation system, Garrett said the county purchased added equipment for course

improvements. The county is also working to convert current grasses used on the golf courses to Zoysia sod, which is more resistant to browning in hot Missouri summers and has internal protection from cold winters. According to PGA Tour experts, Zoysia is preferred by players because of superior lies and improved ball striking due to blade density.

OPEN EXTENDED HOURS DURING GUN SEASON Nov. 16, 17, 18, 23 & 24 - 8am to 8pm, Nov. 19, 20, 21 & 22 - 8am to 7pm Nov. 28 - Thanksgiving - closed

2019 HOLIDAY HOURS NOV. 29 - DEC. 21 MWF 8am-5pm, TTh 8am-7pm, Sat 8am-4pm, Sun 10am-2pm, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve 8am-Noon, Dec. 25 Christmas CLOSED, Dec. 26 CLOSED, Dec. 27 & 28 8am-5pm, Dec. 29 8am-4pm, Dec. 30 CLOSED, Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve 8am-2pm Jan. 1 New Year’s Day CLOSED

2019 PRICING

All cooked products will be vacuum sealed and labeled.

Skinning ..................................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Caping ...................................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Bone Completely Out.............. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Save Loins ................................. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Save Loins & Round ................. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Save All Steak & Roast ............. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Stew Meat ................................. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Burger - with or w/o beef ....................................................... 1 lb.......................... 2 lb. Cheddar Patties* ...................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Breakfast Sausage*................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Bratwurst (1 lb.)**.................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Cheddar Cheese Brats** ......... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Summer Sausage* 12 oz. Original......................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info 12 oz. Cheddar ........................ Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info 12 oz. Cheddar/Jalapeño ........ Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info 12 oz. Pep. Jack/Jalapeño ........ Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Snack Sticks* Original Snack Sticks ............. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Cheddar/Jalapeño Sticks ........ Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Honey BBQ Sticks.................. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Ground & Formed Jerky*. Original.................................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Cheddar/Jalapeño ................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Smoked Sausage* ..................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Polish Sausage (1 lb.)* .............. Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Boxing and Waste Removal (whole deer) .................................................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Boneless or Quartered Deer Fees Handling Fee ........................... Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info Boning Fee, per quarter ........ Prices Coming Soon, Call for Info

PRODUCT PACKAGING Burger with or w/o Beef 1 lb. = 1 Pkg, 2 lb. = 1 Pkg Cheddar or Cheddar / Jalapeño Patties 2 lb. = 1 Pkg (6 Patties/pkg) Breakfast Sausage ...................................................................1 lb. = 1 Pkg Bratwurst or Cheddar Bratwurst 1 lb. = 1 Pkg (4 Brats/pkg) Summer Sausage 12 oz. Regular ........................................................................ 3 lb. = 4 Sticks 12 oz. Cheddar ...................................................................... 3 lb. = 4 Sticks 12 oz. Cheddar / Jalapeño .............................................. 3 lb. = 4 Sticks 12 oz. Pepper Jack / Jalapeño ...................................................................... 3 lb. = 4 Sticks Snack Sticks Original Snack Sticks.....................................................2 lb. = 3 Pkgs (12 sticks/pkg) Cheddar/Jalapeño Sticks .............................................1 lb. = 2 Pkgs (12 sticks/pkg) Honey BBQ Sticks ...........................................................1 lb. = 2 Pkgs (12 sticks/pkg) Ground & Formed Jerky Original................................................................1 lb. = 2 Pkgs (6 sticks/pkg) Cheddar/Jalapeño ............................................1 lb. = 2 Pkgs (6 sticks/pkg) Smoked Sausage ....................................................................2 lb. = 3 Pkgs Polish Sausage ................................................1 lb. = 1 Pkg (5 Polish/pkg)

Per deer - reequuirredd at tiimee of of cheeckk in.

*Add 25% beef to all products at $2.35/lb. **Add 25% pork to all products at $2.35/lb. Deer must be picked up within two weeks of first notification or a $5 storage fee per deer will be applied. Cash, check or credit card accepted. DIRECTIONS: 1-70 to Odessa/Wellington Exit; North on Hwy 131 for approx. 1 0 miles; cross Hwy 24; continue North on Hwy 131 to intersection in Wellington; turn West (left) on Hwy 224. Travel one mile on Hwy 224. Nadler’s sign is on the right-hand side of the road.

75124482

P.O. Box 325 • 5527 Highway 224 • Wellington, MO 64097 • (816) 240-8124

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Paradise Pointe home to 2 unique courses

Courier-Tribune Photo

Paradise Pointe Golf Complex features two golf courses, The Posse and The Outlaw.

There’s never a stressful day at the Paradise Pointe Golf Complex, 18212 Golf Course Road, Smithville. A crown jewel of Clay County sports is nestled in the contours of Smithville Lake and hosts sports enthusiasts virtually year-round. Paradise Pointe rests on the western edge of the lake and gives local residents, visitors and high school golf tournaments a place for casual or revved-up golf competition. The facility is home to a pair of 18-hole courses — The Posse and The Outlaw — as well as a four-hole academy course.

The complex is also available for corporate events, other tournaments and fundraising and charity events. To get to the complex from U.S. Highway 169, travel east on 180th Street to the Smithville Lake Little Platte Park entrance. Turn left at the sign to enter the complex parking lot.

The Posse With names straight out of the Old West, the twin courses also have their character. The Posse has a traditional layout on Zoysia fairways that measures 7,018 yards from the tips

and features rolling hills, small greens and a handful of holes on the front nine that make up the Smithville Lake shoreline.

The Outlaw The Posse’s brother, The Outlaw, has an old-school layout that features Zoysia fairways that strays away from the water, but still offers nice lake views and interaction with the native habitat. The Outlaw is 7,016 yards from the back tees. There is no “turn” after the first nine holes due to the linksstyle layout, so players won’t find themselves anywhere near the clubhouse when they walk

off the ninth green. A small snack bar is located in that area for mid-round refreshment.

Academy & pro shop Paradise Pointe also features a four-hole practice academy, driving range, putting and chipping greens, clubhouse, snack bar and fully stocked pro shop. The shop features a variety of golfing supplies and apparel. Call the pro shop at 816-532-4100 or visit www. paradisepointegolf.com for more information, including current fees. Online tee times are also available.

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Disc golf triples fun Paradise Pointe Disc Golf Complex

Courier-Tribune photo

Smithville Lake features multiple disc golf courses, including one within the Camp Branch Campground.

In terms of disc golf at Paradise Pointe Golf Complex, three is better than one. That’s because there are not one, not two, but three disc golf courses at the complex located in Smithville. Along the shores of Smithville Lake in Little Platte Park, just down the road from the traditional golf course, the Paradise Pointe Disc Golf Complex features a trio of courses with varying degrees of difficulty: Beaver Creek, Black Thorn and Woodhenge. Players hurl flying discs to navigate the various courses on the way to metal baskets serving as “holes.” As with traditional golf, players count a stroke for each throw and can play competitively or just for fun. All three courses feature the metals baskets, and most holes feature concrete tee pads marking the start of the next hole. At the bottom of each basket is a pointer to the next tee pad. ❯ Beaver Creek (Par 56) White

baskets — Starts left of Shelter No. 1 and shoots down toward the water. ❯ Black Thorn (Par 58) Blue baskets — Starts from the picnic table area at Shelter No. 2, down toward the cemetery. ❯ Woodhenge (Par 63) Yellow baskets — Starts behind the bathroom on the north side of the parking lot. Plays count-erclockwise, Nos. 1 through 9 on the east side, Nos. 10 through 18 on the west side of the road. There is an entrance fee to gain access to the courses. For more information, including course maps and score cards, visit the Clay County website at www.claycountymo. gov/Parks.

Camp Branch Disc Golf Course There is also a beginners option for novice disc golfers. A nine-hole disc golf course is located within the Camp Branch Campground. This par-27 recreational course is designed for youngsters and those just taking up the game.

Fall/Winter Discounts*

2 months paid, 3rd month half price 5 months paid, 6th month FREE

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RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Blazing a trail hiking or biking Looking to blaze a different trail this fall? Look no further than the 37 miles of paved trails at Smithville Lake. Hikers, runners and bicyclists alike, there’s plenty to enjoy in the outdoors at the lake. Refer to the map in the center of this edition of the Fall Outdoor Activities Guide to find all trails, which are maintained by the Clay County Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites. They are patrolled by Clay County park rangers.

Smoke & Davey The Smoke & Davey Trail System, named after two Clay County parks staff members who constructed the trail system, is composed of three trails: Backbone, Whispering Pine and Copperhead Ridge. ❯ Smoke & Davey/ Backbone Trail — 2.7 miles; begins at the Smoke & Davey Trailhead located on the south side of Missouri Highway W, just

east of the W boat ramp and bridge. The trail initially follows an old road cut south for one mile to the lake’s edge on the north side of Sailboat Cove before curving east around the cove before ending at the Sailboat Cove parking lot. ❯ Whispering Pine Trail — 1.4 miles; accessible from Smoke & Davey Trailhead. ❯ Copperhead Ridge Trail — 0.7 miles; easily accessed from Backbone Trail.

Camp Branch The Camp Branch Trail System is composed of three trails: Bonebender, Campground and Eagle's View. Bonebender Trail — 6 miles; accessible from the Sailboat Cove parking lot to the north and from the main park office and Camp Branch swim beach to the south and from within the Camp Branch Campground. ❯ Continued on Page 16

Courier-Tribune photo

Hikers, bikers and horseback riders can all spend the day on trails at Smithville Lake.

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75123743

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

❯ Continued from Page 14 ❯ Campground Trail — 2.9 miles; follows the lake’s shoreline around the perimeter of Camp Branch Campground. While connected to Bonebender Trail, the Campground Trail is accessible only within Camp Branch Campground. ❯ Eagle's View Trail — 1.5 miles; accessible only from the Eagle's View Trailhead on the north side of Collins Road across from the park office entrance; follows the shoreline to the Kelsey Short Youth Camp area.

Crow’s Creek The Crow’s Creek Trail System is composed of two trails: Anita B. Gorman and Cabin Fever. ❯ Anita B. Gorman Trail — 1.9 miles; accessible from Collins Road to the north and from Crow’s Creek boat ramp area in the south. ❯ Cabin Fever Trail — 7 miles; accessible from Crow’s Creek boat ramp area to the north and from Access 25 at the west end of 160th Street; hugs the shoreline of the Crow’s Creek arm of Smithville Lake and is easily accessible from the Crow’s Creek Campground to the north.

Little Platte North The Little Platte North Trail is 2.5 miles and only accessible from the trailhead at the east end of 188th Street.

Little Platte South The Little Platte South Trail is 5.5 miles. Its trailhead is near the intersection of Highway F and Litton Way on the southwest end, and at the Paradise Pointe Marina parking lot on the north end. It also can be accessed within Little Platte Park at the beach, Shelters 1 and 2.

Clay County Parks & Recreation

Four trails in the Smithville Lake system now have bike repair stations.

NEW: Bike repair stations Cyclists enjoying rides along Smithville Lake’s trails now have less to worry about in regard to equipment breakdowns as the county has installed bicycle repair stations in four areas: ❯ Smoke & Davey Trail, located off Highway W; ❯ Anita B. Gorman Trail, accessible from Collins Road to the north and from Crow’s Creek boat ramp area to the south; ❯ Little Platte North Trail, located at the east end of 188th Street; ❯ Little Platte South Trail, accessible from

its trailhead near the intersection of Missouri Highway F and Litton Way on the southwest end and the Paradise Pointe Marina parking lot on the north end. “The fix-it includes all the tools necessary to perform basic bike repairs and maintenance, from changing a flat to adjusting brakes and derailleurs,” according to Clay County’s webpage. “The tools are securely attached to the stand with stainless steel cables and tamper-proof fasteners. Hanging the bike from the hanger arms allows the pedals and wheels to spin freely while making adjustments.” Stations also include air pumps.

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Saddle up for a scenic trail ride

Courier-Tribune photo

There are 32 miles of equestrian trails at Smithville Lake.

Thirty-two miles of equestrian trail await horse riders at Smithville Lake. The paths wind their way from Crow’s Creek Campground Trailhead all the way to Arley, Missouri, traveling through forested areas, open meadows and creek crossings. The terrain is one of both rolling hills and fl atlands. Trailer parking for visitors is available at Crow’s Nest and Jack Rabbit Bend. Orange indicators mark the shoreline trail, while white indicators mark the boundary trail. There also are lettered locator posts along the trail to help riders track their positions.

One advisory riders need to observe is that the trails east of Collins Road are located within public hunting areas and should be used with caution during hunting seasons. For those looking to combine camping with their equestrian experience, there are electric and primitive sites at Crow’s Creek with restrooms, showers, laundry and water hydrants in the area. No camping is allowed along the trails or at access areas. Open fires also are prohibited. Volunteer groups including Northland Trails and Greenways take care of the trails throughout the year, including mowing.

Trail rules ❯ Keep horses out of crop fields. ❯ Follow safe riding practices. ❯ Be alert to hazardous crossings and low limbs. ❯ Horses are prohibited from entering the lake. ❯ Show consideration to other riders on the trail. ❯ Ride only on designated trails. ❯ To prevent trail damage, avoid riding when trails are wet. ❯ Help keep trails clean — do not litter. ❯ No camping along trail or at access areas. ❯ No open fires along trail.

11.5 miles of mountain biking paths at lake The entertainment and exercise levels do not end with bicycles at Smithville Lake. Enter mountain biking. A network of a little more than 11.5 miles of trails dedicated to mountain biking surrounds Smithville Lake.

The website MTBproject.com gives the system four out of five stars. The trails are near the Smoke & Davey Trailhead, which is on the east side of the lake between Missouri Highway W and Sailboat Cove, and at Sailboat Cove.

If the trails are wet and muddy, bikers are asked not to use them to avoid damaging the paths. For updates on trail conditions, visit urbantrailco.com. On Facebook, search for Smithville Lake Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails.

ATVs not allowed on lake property All-terrain vehicles are not allowed at all on the grounds surrounding Smithville Lake. They also are not allowed on public roads in Missouri without special permission or unless they are being used for agricultural purposes; in rivers or streams on public land; or on railroad tracks. ATVs are allowed on private property with the consent of the owner. All ATV operators must be at least 16 years old unless accompanied by or under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian, or accompanied by an adult authorized by the parent or guardian. Helmets must be worn by ATV riders younger than 18 years old.

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

No matter the season, shelters available at Smithville Lake Seek shelter at Smithville Lake — for picnics, gatherings with friends or simply to take a break during your outdoor adventure — with nearly 200 sites available in all seasons. Sites include tables and grills. The shelters are maintained by Clay County and are available for special events in Little Platte Park (on the west side of the lake near Paradise Pointe Golf Complex), near Sailboat Cove (on the east side of the lake near Paradise) and in Crow’s Creek Park (on the southeast side of the lake near 164th Street and Collins Road). Crow’s Creek Park also features a handicap-accessible

by calling 816-407-3400 or emailing parks@claycountymo. gov. Reservations are available year round. Vehicles and boats must have entrance passes to get to the shelters in the Little Platte, Crow’s Creek and Sailboat Cove areas of Smithville Lake.

Lake View Shelter Lake View Shelter, located near the Jerry Litton Visitor Submit ted Photo Center, is available for use on Shelters like this one at Little Platte Park are available for use year round a first-come, first-served basis, at Smithville Lake. or with a non-refundable $50 shelter and fishing dock near come, first-served basis. reservation fee. The shelter Shelters can be reserved for the boat ramp. is maintained by the U.S. Picnic areas with grills and a fee through the Clay Army Corps of Engineers. Call tables are available at no County Department of Parks, 816-532-0174 for additional charge and are on a firstRecreation & Historic Sites information.

Tammy Liber

Managing Broker & Buyer/Seller Executive Licensed Broker in Missouri & Kansas

816-665-6630 liber.tammy@gmail.com • tammyliber.com If the thought of selling or buying a home gives you a headache.. Take 2 aspirin and call me in the morning! 30 MINUTES (That’s all it takes) You tell me why you’re selling or buying... I tell you what I can do for you.

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•

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Office: 816-532-6101 Fax: 816-532-6010 75123994

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Swim beaches closed until next spring The two public swim beaches at Smithville Lake open May 1 and close Sept. 15 each year. The Clay County Parks Department operates the swim beaches, located within Camp Branch and Little Platte Parks, with no life guard on duty. In season, they are open from 8:30 a.m. to sunset. Facilities include showers, changing rooms, rest rooms and drinking fountain. Pets, glass containers and alcoholic beverages are not permitted at either site.

Rules for pets at the lake ❯ Pets must be restrained at all times by a leash no longer than 6 feet or tie-outs no longer than 6 feet, unless they are in a boat. ❯ No more than two dogs are allowed per campsite. ❯ Animals cannot be tied to trees. ❯ No dog runs, perimeters or invisible fences are allowed. ❯ No animal should be left unattended. ❯ Owners will be subject to citations for any damage done to trees or campsites by their animals. Courier-Tribune Photo ❯ Loose dogs and owners not cleaning up after Pets at Smithville Lake must be on a leash or tie-out at all times on land. their dogs will be subject to citations. ❯ Pets are not allowed on the beaches. ❯ If an animal is making excessive noise, such as barking, or acting overly aggressive, the owner and animal will be asked to leave the area. Source: Clay County Department of Parks, Recreation & Historic Sites

Kansas City Trapshooters Association Kansas City’s Premier Shotgun Facility

Offering trap, skeet, and five stand sporting clays. We hold Seasonal Leagues, ATA registered Tournaments, Corporate Events, and Fundraisers, as well as regular practice sessions for both new and experienced shooters. 75122439

Smithville Lake 6420 NE 176th Street Smithville, MO 64089 816.532.4427 www.kctraps.com KCTARLH@yahoo.com

RECREATION

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Plenty of camping options For those who desire to spend a night out in the outdoors, Smithville Lake offers camping options. In fact, there’s no shortage of options. There are 800 campsites at the lake, with a variety of locations and amenities available. One of the facilities is available yearround, and the others are seasonal. Crow’s Creek, one of two campgrounds run by the Clay County Parks Department, is open year-round, but the water is turned off Nov. 1. That date could be moved up if a hard freeze is predicted. The county-run campground at Camp Branch closes for the season after the first weekend in October, and the cityrun Smith’s Fork Campground closes in mid-October. In 2017, improvements were made to enhance the camping experience for visitors to the county campgrounds who desired electrical service. This specific service, offered at the B Loop at the Camp Branch Campground, meets the ever-growing demand for sites at both the Camp Branch and Crow’s Creek campgrounds. Smithville Lake welcomes well over 1 million visitors each year, and those seeking camping sites quickly fill the already improved sites at Crow’s Creek. Camp Branch got the initial upgrades because of its waterfront sites, which are the most popular.

Online reservations can be made at smithvillelakecamping.com.

Camp Branch ❯ Opening April 1 and closing Oct. 1 each year, Camp Branch is located on the east side of Smithville Lake. ❯ All sites — 34 electric (30 amp), 136 electric (50 amp) and 192 unimproved— come with picnic tables and campfire rings with grills. Courier-Tribune Photos ❯ Shower and laundry facilities are located Campsites with water and electricity, as well as in the campground, as well as a primitive campsites, are plentiful at Smithville playground. Lake.

Crow’s Creek ❯ Crow’s Creek stays open all year and offers 91 sites with water and electricity (50 amp), 192 sites with electricity only (30 and 50 amp sites available) and 132 unimproved sites. ❯ It is located off Missouri Route E, toward the south end of Smithville Lake. There are numerous sites for equestrian campers. ❯ All sites have a picnic table and fire ring with a grill. ❯ Shower and laundry facilities, as well as a playground, are located in the campground. ❯ Nightly fees range from $25 to $35; stall rentals cost $15 and must be requested.

Smith’s Fork Campground ❯ A full-service campground is operated below the dam by the city of Smithville at Smith’s Fork Park from April 15 to Oct. 15 each year. ❯ Each site has electricity, water and sewer connections. ❯ A restroom/shower house also is available on site. ❯ For reservations during the camping season, call 816-532-1028. No reservations are taken before April 15. ❯ For more information, visit www.smithvillemo.org.

SHOP LO-HO-HO-CAL Your Smithville hometown merchants are ready to meet all of your holiday shopping needs with great gift ideas and seasonal merchandise. By

supporting small businesses in Smithville, you’re doing your part to help build a stronger local economy and community. So keep your hard-

earned dollars at home this holiday season, and shop locally for the best value!

See our website for the chamber directory, event calendar, and more!

The Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce 105 W. Main Street • Smithville, MO 64089 816-532-0946 • www.smithvillechamber.org 75121573

208th St.

240th St.

ch Cr ee k

COUNTY Trimble

214th St.

223rd St.

Br an

Grayson

Li nn

169

252nd St.

Hord Rd.

1/2

MILE

236th St.

Westbridge

246th St.

225th St.

228th St.

208th St.

SW Short

116

Smith-Halferty Rd. Shewey Rd.

St o n y Poin t Rd. McCulloch Rd.

COUNTY

CLINTON

SMITHVILLE LAKE MISSOURI

g Rd Devl in

County Lake Rd. 220th St.

224th St.

268th St.

Accessible Facilities Boat Ramp Camping Available Equestrian Trail Fishing Dock Golf Course Hazardous Boating Area

Hospital

City/Town Boundary

(No Hunting)

Park Area

Re vo

ser

Wildlife Refuge Area Lake Access Point Hiking Trail Marina Station Picnic Area Sailboat Facilities Swimming Area Trap Range Disc Golf

(No Hunting)

Pla

tte

116

Tornado Shelter No Water Skiing Administration Area

240th St.

Perkins Park

Maple St.

Public Land

(Hunting Allowed)

KEY

Plotsky Ave.

PLATTSBURG

Town and Country Rd.

SW Shaver Harris Rd. Arnold

PLATTE

Middle Rd.

Spring Town Rd.

nch Bra ir

er Riv

COUNTY

CLAY

County Line Rd.

d Se c o n

Creek Rd. ond Sec

164th St.

Little Platte River

KK F

Lib

ert

Helvey Park

Smith’s Fork Park

Woodhenge

rs Rd.

174th St.

Murphy Rd.

SF — Smith’s Fork Park LP — Little Platte Park CC — Crow’s Creek Park CBM — Camp Branch Marina CBC — Camp Branch Campground PP — Perkins Park LVC — Litton Visitor Center KS — Kelsey Short Group Camp SC — Sailboat Cove

Paved Roads

CLINTON 198th St. C L A Y

Ectonville

168th St.

Clay County Parks & Recreation Office

PARK KEY INITIALS

Five Co rne

Short Ln. 156th St.

164th St.

Accessible Fishing Dock

Crow’s Creek Park

Camp Branch Marina

160th St.

200th St.

204th St.

Paradise Kelsey Short Camp Branch Group Bauman Park Camp

NE 144th St.

Camp Branch

Paradise Pointe Marina

Sailboat Cove

Litton Visitor Center and Corps of Engineers Office

Little Platte Park

Paradise Pointe Golf Complex

Special regulations apply

SOURCES: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Clay County Parks and Recreation Dept.

SMITHVILLE

St. Luke’s Northland Hospital

Heritage Park

169

180th St.

188th St.

eek

Cree k

N. Main St.

Clinton County Line Rd.

H.H. Lake Rd.

Cr e e k

HONKER COVE WATERFOWL REFUGE

Mt. Olivet Rd.

Collins Rd.

WHB Rd.

Long Rd.

Eastern Rd.

Cr e Ow l

Eastern Rd.

Quinn Rd. Quinn Rd.

Gravel Roads

George L. Stanton | Special to the Smithville Herald

Handicap Accessible Facility

Picnic Area 164th St. Boat Ramp Marina Sailboat Facilities C Swimming Campgrounds Group Camp Trails Ball Fields Electrical Hookups Sewage Dump Sewage Hookup Water Supply A Showers Restrooms Laundry Facilities Golf Course Trap Range Fishing Dock Courtesy Dock

CLAY COUNTY PARKS AMENITIES SF LP CC CBM CBC PP LVC KS SC

Arley

COUNTY COUNTY

McKeehan Rd. Neth Rd.

172nd St.

188th St.

Fightmaster Rd. Francis Rd.

COUNTY N Stark Rd.

Creek

Camp Bran

PLATTE Cr

Fi r s t

Wilkerson

RECREATION / HUNTING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

K.C. Trapshooters Association continues tradition When three brothers opened a shooting park in 1887, they began a sporting legacy that continues at Smithville Lake. The Kansas City Trapshooters Association lost the Elliott’s Shooting Park in Raytown in 1986, but the group moved to Smithville to continue the legacy of Robert, Jim and Dave Elliott and a sporting tradition that has been around since the 1790s. The KCTA Shooting Park, at 6420 NE 176th St., Smithville, is at the Camp Branch Campground entrance and hosts a wide variety of events, including league-play matches

and annual tournaments. Other activities at the KCTA include instruction for beginners, club competitions, registered shoots, fun shoots, fundraising shoots, corporate entertainment and special reservations for groups. The shooting park is open to the public on weekends and some evenings, and other times by appointment. The range is equipped with stadium lighting to allow for after-dark shooting and it’s open year-round, but will clear shooters from the line if lightning is present. If the temperature drops below 20 degrees,

or if there is significant snow or ice, the range may close. Shooters are advised to call ahead on those days to make sure the range is open. The facility features 11 trap fields, two skeet fields and a clubhouse, where food service is available. The club provides gun safety and shooting instruction to encourage newcomers to the sport. According to the KCTA, American trap is usually shot with a 12-gauge single- or double-barrel shotgun and lead target ammo with a shot size between 7.5 and 9 (2.0-

Hunter education courses are online Missouri Department of Conservation recommends that people make sure their hunter education is up to date. The department offers an all-online hunter-education course for Missouri residents 16 years or older to provide a more flexible and convenient option to become hunter-education certified. Younger hunters 11 to 15 need to take the hunter education skills session to complete the hunting safety certification. While the knowledge portion can be done online, the skills session and exam must be done in person. These sessions can be four to six hours. The lessons are classroom work, outdoor shooting, blood trailing and demonstrations of tree stand safety. Most of the classroom topics will pertain to Missouri-

specific regulations and issues that are not covered in this online course. Participants should be sure to have proper clothing for the outdoor sessions. Hunters must be residents of Missouri to take the online course. Hunters 16 and older successfully completing the online course can immediately print out proof of online course completion. After attending and passing the Hunter Education Skills Session portion of the Hunting education requirement, hunters receive their Conservation Permit Card. Missouri’s hunter education course is required for any hunter born on or after Jan. 1, 1967. Hunters who plan to hunt during a Missouri firearms season or are acting as an adult mentor must

first complete an approved hunter-education certification program and provide proof of completion unless: ❯ You are 15 years of age or younger and will be hunting with a properly permitted adult mentor 18 or older. ❯ You were born before Jan. 1, 1967. ❯ You have a disability exemption from MDC’s Protection Division. ❯ You are 16 years of age or older and have purchased an apprentice hunter authorization and will be hunting with a properly permitted adult mentor 18 or older. ❯ You are the landowner or lessee hunting on selfowned land or land of residence. Find out more at huntfish. mdc.mo.gov.

2.4 mm). Visitors may bring their own ammunition, following KCTA specifications, or purchase shells at the range. All shells must be a lead shot target load. No 3-inch shells may be shot. Throwing targets, a variety of shells, reloading components and shooting accessories are available for purchase at the clubhouse. The shooting park is located just inside the Camp Branch Campground entrance. For more information, call the KCTA at 816-532-4427 or visit www.kctraps.com.

When hunter orange is required ❯ You are hunting any species of game during firearms deer season. ❯ You are hunting on an area that is having a managed firearms deer hunt. ❯ You are serving as a mentor to another hunter during firearms deer season or on an area that is having a managed firearms deer hunt. To satisfy this rule, you must wear both a hunter-orange hat and a hunter-orange shirt, vest or coat. The hunter-orange color must be plainly visible from all sides. Camouflage orange does not satisfy this rule.

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CURRENT  TRENDS CONNECT TODAY CONNECT  TODAY

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mycouriertribune.com 628-6010 Kearney  781-4941 Liberty  532-4444 Smithville mycouriertribune.com mycouriertribune.com 628-6010 Kearney  781-4941 Liberty  532-4444 Smithville C T C T

O R O R

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R E R E

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HUNTING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Deer season stretches from November to January The firearms deer season is made up of five portions: ❯ youth, Nov. 2 to Nov. 3, 2019 and Nov. 29, 2019 to Dec. 1, 2019, statewide; ❯ firearms, November portion, Nov. 16, 2019 to Nov. 26, 2019; ❯ firearms, anterless, Dec. 6 to Dec. 8, 2019; ❯ firearms, alternative methods, Dec. 28, 2019 to Jan. 7, 2020; and ❯ archery, Sept. 15, 2019 to Nov. 15, 2019 and Nov. 27, 2019 to Jan. 15, 2020. The November portion typically opens on the Saturday 12 days before Thanksgiving. The early youth portion typically opens two weeks prior to the November portion. These formulas are provided for reference only and are subject to change. Dates for each portion are set annually by the Conservation Commission in December of the previous year. Hunters can take only two antlered deer during the archery and firearms deer hunting seasons combined. Hunters using an archery permit may take only one antlered deer before the November portion of firearms deer hunting season. Only one antlered deer may be taken during firearms deer hunting season (all portions combined). If you kill or injure a deer or turkey, you

Submit ted Photo

Hunters can take only two antlered deer during Missouri’s archery and firearms deer hunting seasons combined.

must make a reasonable effort to retrieve and include the animal in your season limit. However, this does not authorize trespass. It is illegal to leave or abandon commonly edible portions of game. Properly checked deer and turkeys may be possessed by anyone if labeled with the taker’s full name, address, date taken, and Telecheck confirmation number. The Telecheck confirmation number must remain attached to the carcass until a meat processor begins working on the animal. Deer left at commercial processing or cold

storage plants must be claimed by May 1 following the season taken. Turkeys may not be possessed after Feb. 15 following the season taken. Legally obtained turkey bones and feathers, and deer heads, antlers, hides, and feet may be sold by the taker, but the taker must provide a bill of sale showing: the taker’s full name and address, the species and number of parts, and the full name and address of the buyer. For deer heads and/or antlers attached to skull plates, a dated bill of sale identifying the seller must be retained while the heads or antlers are in the buyer’s possession. Any person who finds a dead deer with antlers still attached to the skull plate may take the antlers, but must report the find to a conservation agent within 24 hours to receive authorization to possess the antlers. No authorization is needed to possess, buy, and sell shed antlers not attached to the skull plate. You must have your signed paper permit or digitally signed electronic permit on hand when you go afield to hunt. You may use the MO Hunting app to carry your permits afield. Permits cannot be exchanged or refunded. Deer and fall turkey permits may be used in any order, and multiple permits may be filled on the same day, except during the early youth portion when only one deer may be taken.

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Smithville Pony Designs Downtown 117 N. Bridge St 75123740

Home Decor • Antiques • Vintage • Clothing

★

ne ribu r-T rie ou

★ Gladston

eD isp at

2019

★ ch

★

ne ★ Gladstone ribu Dis r-T pa rie t u o

★ ch

Must be 21

2018

A PLACE WHERE WINE LOVERS CAN “RELAX AND REFLECT” IN AN ADULT ATMOSPHERE.

Visit the gift shop for local business items as well as

t-shirts and a variety of wine related gifts. Enjoy the indoor seating inside the Winery, or you can soak up some sun in the outdoor seating, surrounded by four acres of vineyards.

Wine tastings daily. Try a variety of wines from sweet to

dry, or sip on a delicious fruit wine slushie! Sip on a glass while enjoying a loaf of fresh bread with olive oil, or choose from one of our gourmet cheeses with sausage and crackers.

Hand crafted, award winning wines in small batches!

In Smithville just west of the dam 100 E. Pope Lane, Smithville 816.866.4077 www.ladogaridgewinery.com

Hours: Mon.-Tues. Closed; Wed-Thurs. 11-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11-8 p.m.; Sun. 12-5 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays through April. Check our website for current hours. 75122283

HUNTING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Fall turkey hunting season available for archers, shooters Either sex of turkey may be hunted during the fall firearms season. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, gobblers are typically found in small flocks of up to 10 birds, while hens and the year’s young flock together in groups of 10 to 20. Fall turkey season for archery is Sept. 15 to Nov. 15, 2019 and Nov. 27, 2019 to Jan. 15, 2020. Fall turkey firearms is Oct. 1 to Oct. 31, 2019. The limit is two turkeys at any size and both may be taken on the same day. Adult males are very large and dark with a bare red and blue head, with red wattles on the throat and neck. They

have long legs. The feathers are bronzy and iridescent. Males, and some females, have a tuft of hairlike feathers (a “beard”) in the middle of the breast. Females are smaller and less iridescent. Turkeys are most famous for their gobbling calls, but they make many other vocalizations as well.

After the harvest After you’ve harvested your turkey, there are two basic ways to clean it: plucking or skinning. Plucking is preferred if you want to keep the moisture in the meat while cooking the bird whole. To pluck the turkey, remove the feathers as you

would when plucking a chicken. This method can be time consuming and messy. If you choose to skin your bird, the MDC recommends: ❯ Hang the turkey by both feet at chest level. The feet should be 12 to 18 inches apart. ❯ If you want to save the beard, remove it now. Grasp the beard as close to the body as possible, give it a half-twist, and then sharply pull it away from the breast. The beard will pull away with a little tissue on it. ❯ Remove the fan by cutting the skin away from the tail. ❯ Cut off the wings at the elbow or second joint.

❯ Grasp the skin at the tail and begin pulling it down. Work the skin off around the wings and pull it down to the neck. ❯ Cut off the neck and the skin. The feathers and head will come off in one piece. ❯ Open the body cavity and remove the entrails, if you have not already done so in the field. Be sure to remove all lung material from the backbone, as it tends to spoil quickly. ❯ Cut off the legs at the knee or second joint. ❯ If you don’t want to cook or freeze a whole turkey, consider cutting it up into smaller portions.

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Serving area boaters for more than three decades!

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HUNTING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

How to Telecheck turkey, deer during fall season All deer and turkey must be checked by telephone or on the Internet. No in-person checking stations are available. You don’t need to call Telecheck immediately after taking the game. You have until 10 p.m. on the day of harvest to check your deer or turkey. You can transport unchecked game within the state as long as the transportation tag is attached to the leg. Deer carcasses shall remain fully intact or field-dressed until they are Telechecked. Turkeys must have their heads and plumage intact until they are Telechecked.

Telecheck with MO Hunting App ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Select your notched permit from the list. Tap “Telecheck.” Follow the prompts on the screen. Telecheck will upload a confirmation number to your mobile device.

75123712

more than one permit, be sure you give the number of the permit you want to use. ❯ The county where the turkey was taken. ❯ Turkey type: adult gobbler, adult hen, juvenile gobbler and juvenile hen. Grab a pen, then call or log into Telecheck. Use Telecheck online or use a phone to dial 800-314-6828, then follow the instructions. If you use the phone, speak clearly and slowly. You can call between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Missouri Depar tment of Conser vation Write the confirmation number on Both male and female turkeys can be hunted your permit. After you have provided the during the fall firearms season. required information, you will receive an confirmation number that veriTelecheck using phone or internet eight-digit fies you have legally checked your game. Collect the following information, which Write this number on the permit. You have you will be asked when you use Telecheck. now completed checking your game and can process your turkey. ❯ Your Telecheck ID number if you have

HUNTING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Hunters should invest in first aid kit Carrying a proper medical kit while hunting may mean the difference between leaving the trail or continuing the hunt. Carolyn Wells, a registered nurse and the trauma/emergency preparedness manager at Liberty Hospital, said hunters need to get in the habit of carrying some sort of first aid kit. “If they don’t want to carry a big kit, then they should at least have something to cut off clothes, and most of them carry a knife, plus some gauze to pack a wound in addition to the tourniquet,” Wells said. She also advises hunters learn how to properly use a tourniquet. A basic first aid kit or even a mini-kit for easier travel should

include the basics to dress small wounds and medications for cuts, scrapes and blisters. In a larger kit that might fit into a backpack, she suggests including gauze sponges, Band-Aids, butterfly bandages, prep pads, moleskin, tweezers, allergy ointment, antibiotic cream, ibuprofen, towelettes and medical tape. Wells said knowing how to stop bleeding is key as well. There are a variety of medicines and medical sprays that can help slow or stop bleeding. Once the bleeding has subsided, gauze, tape, pressure bandages, pads and wrap provide an easy, effective way to wrap and re-wrap wounds. While medications are often in-

dividualized, there are some that can help in general situations. Ibuprofen works for headaches, backaches, body aches and fever. Benadryl tabs or another antihistamine is important to keep on hand for possible allergic reactions. For hunters who have one, it’s a good idea to pack an EpiPen along, as well any other medications they take regularly. At the beginning of every trip, all hunters in the group should ensure they know a kit is on hand and what’s in it. If there are items for specific hunters, those should be identified, too. While it may seem obvious to bring a more complete first

Metro Creative

A first aid kit should be packed for hunting excursions.

aid kit for trips further into the backcountry, many hunters find themselves doing just the opposite: carrying less to save ounces. In reality, the further away from medical help you find yourself, the more first aid items are needed.

KoZak’sGrill Laketown

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HUNTING

Poaching penalties increase A new state law that took effect Aug. 28 increases penalties for those caught poaching Missouri game animals and other native wildlife species. New fine amounts include: ❯ $10,000 to $15,000 for each elk or black bear killed illegally, ❯ $1,000 to $5,000 for each whitetailed buck, ❯ $500 to $1,000 for each wild turkey and $500 to $1,000 for each paddlefish. The fines are considered restitution payments for poaching game animals and are ordered by a judge. Fines go to a state fund for schools. The restitution payments are in addition to other fines and penalties for violating the Wildlife Code of Missouri.

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Permits required for Missouri hunters No matter if hunters are going after migratory birds, deer or fish, anyone and everyone who hunts, traps and fishes has to have an appropriate permit. You can purchase hunting permits by calling 800-392-4115. Your permit will be mailed to you. You also can purchase permits online via mdc.mo.gov/buypermits, print them and have them in hand immediately. Additionally, Missouri hunting and fishing permits are available from one of many vendors around the state, or through MDC’s free mobile apps, MO Hunting and MO Fishing, available for download through Google Play for Android devices or the App Store for Apple devices. Certain permits are available only through the MDC Permit Services Unit by calling 573-751-4115. These include:

lifetime permits; special hunting and fishing permits; commercial and collector permits; and resident National Guard and Reserve Service small game hunting and fishing permits. To purchase any hunting or fishing permit in Missouri, a Missouri Conservation number, Social Security number or driver’s license number is required. Missouri hunters, anglers and trappers are able to purchase, view and store annual hunting, fishing and trapping permits, as well as view permits purchased during the previous year through MO Hunting. This mobile application for smartphones and tablets also allows hunters to notch their permits and Telecheck their harvests directly from their deer or turkey permits within the app.

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FISHING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Winter ice, dock fishing open in Smithville It may be cold in the wintertime, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t still fishing weather. In fact, as soon as the first freeze begins to set it, ice fishing is a way to get outdoors in Missouri’s coldest season. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ice fishing is allowed at Smithville Lake. Those going are highly encouraged to have a buddy for safety reasons. It also is suggested one of the fishers be experienced in ice fishing. Missouri Department of Conservation recommends only going out 3 or 4 feet from the bank and drilling a hole in the ice. If the ice is 4 inches or thicker, one can wander another 10 to 15 feet and make another hole. No off-road driving is allowed, and ice fishing does require a fishing license. Nearly all the same kind of fish

people find in the summer, such as largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, walleye, white crappie and bluegill, are found under the ice in the winter. The advantage of winter fishing is fewer predators getting in the way.

Dock fishing Winter dock fishing is an option, too. Offered at Camp Branch Marina and Paradise Pointe Marina, dock fishing is from Nov. 1 through March 31. Clay County parks employees aerate the docks around the marinas to keep the ice off and the water open for dock fishers from dawn to dusk. This is the only time of year dock fishing is allowed. Dock fishing requires a permit. For more information, call 816-407-3400.

Christmas trees provide fish habitat Trying to decide what to do with your natural Christmas trees once the holiday has passed? At the end of the season, many of these trees have new purpose at Smithville Lake. Annually, 300 to 400 trees are collected at Shelter 1 in Little Platte Park. Then in the spring, trees are bundled and distributed in and around the lake for fish and wildlife habitat. For more information or to get involved, email parks@claycountymo.gov.

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FISHING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Crappie regulation change should attract more fall anglers The Missouri Department of Conservation is noticing an increase of interest in fishing at Smithville Lake after a new crappie regulation was instituted in the spring. The rare regulation change bumped up the take-home total from 15 crappie to 30, with only 15 allowed to be more than nine inches. The old rule capped all crappies at a nine-inch minimum. “We have 30 years of data leading up to this regulation change,” MDC Fisheries Management Biologist Eric Dennis said. “It’s not something that we take lightly or was it easily done. Smithville has a significantly stunted

black crappie population and they were dying of old age. It made up about 80 percent of the crappie we were sampling. There was a big section of the population that wasn’t getting harvested.” The results of the change have been positive thus far, Dennis said. “The word is getting out that the crappie fishing has been very good this summer, so I expect that to go right into the fall months,” he said. “The regulation change is allowing people to keep more fish, so I fully expect people to enjoy Smithville as a fishery.” Another recent change is that the lake now restocks

Missouri Depar tment of Conser vation

Black crappie (top) and white crappie (bottom) are similar looking, although black crappie often have darker blackish spotting. However, black crappie grow more slowly.

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are also on the rise, Dennis said. As fishers make their way out to the lake, Dennis encourages all to find a solid structure to set up shop and to not be shy about moving around. Because there’s plenty of fish to be caught, and now, plenty of crappie to go around. “There’s such a huge population of crappie that’s been untapped for about 25 years now of these small black crappie,” he said. “So people can expect to go out and catch their limit of crappie this fall. All these fish are right at the 9-inch length and they make a real nice filet.”

BOATING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Drop your anchor at 1 of 3 marinas Camp Branch Marina

Paradise Pointe Marina

Sailboat Cove Marina

❯ Marina Location: 17201 Paradesian St., Smithville ❯ Phone: 816-407-3420 Camp Branch Marina has boats available for rental. These include fishing boats and pontoons. Additionally, the marina has boat accessories, life jackets, swim flags, batteries, fishing tackle, bait, ice, snacks, drinks and fuel. Covered boat slips are available overnight or for six-month lease. The marina is located near the Camp Branch campground, beach, boat ramps, walking trails, trapshooting park and picnic sites.

❯ Marina Location: 2825 NE 180th Street, Smithville ❯ Phone: 816-407-3425 Located in Little Platte Park, the marina store offers boating accessories, life jackets, swim flags, batteries, fishing tackle, bait, ice, fuel, snacks, drinks and more. There are 240 covered boat slips and 29 uncovered boat slips. Overnight and six-month leases are available. The marina is near a swimming beach, boat ramps, trails, picnic sites, playground, historic Woodhenge, Akers Cemetery, disc golf course and Paradise Pointe Golf Complex.

❯ Marina Location: 4404 Paradise Road, Smithville ❯ Phone: 816-407-3400 Sailors, picnickers, sightseers and fishermen all take advantage of Sailboat Cove Marina. The facility offers docks, mooring buoys, dry storage, restrooms, showers and is open to the public. The Day Sail area is a great place for launching catamarans, small sailboats and wind surfing. Non-motorized boats such as rafts and kayaks can be launched here. There are also picnic areas, grills and trails. Large boats must use ramp north of parking.

Floating restaurant returns to lake Smithville Lake again has a shoreline restaurant at Paradise Pointe Marina, located on the west side of the lake in the 3000 block NE 180th Street. Called The Sand Bar at Paradise Pointe, the restaurant, built this year, features overhead-covered picnic tables for seating and a walk-up window. A soft opening late this summer allowed the restaurant to master meal preparation techniques and decide on menu options.

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BOATING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Ramp locations: Where to launch at Smithville Lake There are five multi-lane ramp locations at Smithville Lake providing a wide ranch of boating locations. ❯ Route W boat ramp is located on the north side of Missouri Route W and 1.5 miles east of U.S. Highway 169. ❯ Sailboat Cove has smaller ramps off Route W on Paradise Road; non-motorized boat launch. ❯ Little Platte boat ramp is off Northeast 180th Street near Missouri Route F. It is easily accessed by Highway 169. ❯ Crow’s Creek ramp is locatCourier-Tribune Photo ed near the campground off Before backing down a boat ramp to launch your vessel, boatus.com recommends parking in a staging Hardesty Road near Missouri area to load your gear, attach lines, check the plug, remove tie-downs, put the key in the ignition and unplug Route E. trailer lights.

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BOATING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Rentals, entrance and dock fees Entrance fees Fees in effect for fall are listed below. All fees are subject to change. For up-todate fees and boat slip availability, call 816-407-3400. ❯ Daily vehicles — $5 ❯ Daily boat — $12 ❯ Season vehicle — $22.50 ❯ Boat only — $42.50 ❯ Season vehicle/boat combo — $65 ❯ Season senior (65 and older) vehicle — $17.50 ❯ Senior boat— $32.50 ❯ Season senior vehicle/boat combo — $50

Boat slips Slips are leased and paid every six months, and contracts run from January to June or July to December.

For rental availability, call 816-407-3420.

Camp Branch boat rental Camp Branch Marina, at 17201 Paradesian St., offers boats for rent. A deposit is required for each rental using a Visa, Master Card or Discover card. Debit and check cards are not accepted for a deposit. ❯ 18-foot pontoon rental — $290 per day, $185 four hours, $110 two hours ❯ 24-foot pontoon rental — $320 per day, $200 four hours, $120 two hours ❯ Fishing boat and motor rental — $125 per day, $80 four hours, $60 two hours ❯ All boats are rented with a full tank of gas and life jackets.

Courier-Tribune Photo

In addition to docking, Sailboat Cove offers dry storage.

❯ All boats must be returned by 6 p.m. ❯ No pets allowed on boats. ❯ Anyone born after Jan. 1, 1984, is required to have a Boating Safety Identification Card to rent a boat. Lifetime cards can be acquired by visiting boat-ed. com/missouri. The course is $24.50. The card requires a state fee of $17. ❯ A discount of 25% is offered on weekdays (excluding holidays). ❯ Call 816-407-3420 for reservations.

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BOATING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Personal flotation devices like life jackets should be in good and serviceable condition and the proper size for the wearer. Submit ted Photo

Be educated before boating Missouri law requires all boaters who were born after Jan. 1, 1984, to pass a Missouri State Highway Patrol-approved boating safety course before operating any motorized vessel on state lakes. There are also restrictions on boat and personal watercraft operation for those younger than 14 years. Anyone under age 14 needs direct on-board supervision of someone age 16 or older while operating the equipment. Those operating motorized vessels are required to be carrying a Missouri Boater Education card in addition

to photo identification while operating such a vessel. If an operator does not possess both, a Missouri state driver’s license or non-driver’s license with a boating safety endorsement will be accepted. Boater education courses require a fee of $24.50, and the card costs $17. The course can be taken at boat-ed.com/ missouri. Missouri State Water Patrol also provides classes. For times and locations, call 573-7513313. Violation of this law is a Class B misdemeanor.

Don’t leave without a life jacket Boat drivers and passengers should not only have a life jacket available, but be wearing them at all times when on the water. In 2017, 76% of fatal boating accident victims drowned, according to the United States Coast Guard. Of those, 84.5% were not wearing a life jacket. “I ask those who boat to continue to do so responsibly, especially by donning a life jacket,” said Capt. Scott Johnson, chief of the Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety at Coast Guard Headquarters. “Wearing a life jacket is the single most important thing you can do to save your life or the life of someone you care about.” If a child under age 7 is on a boat and not in a cabin area, he or she is required to be

wearing a life jacket. So are those using personal watercraft. When preparing to get on a vessel, check the legal requirements. In Missouri that means the following. ❯❯ All vessels 16 feet in length or longer must carry a wearable USCG-approved personal flotation device for each person on board. ❯❯ Vessels less than 16 feet must carry a wearable or throwable USCG-approved PFD for each person on board. ❯❯ Under federal law, a wearable PFD is required for each person regardless of boat length. ❯❯ One Type IV USCG-approved PFD is required on a vessel 16 feet or longer, in addition to above requirements.

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BOATING

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Store boating tools and supplies to withstand winter When cold weather arrives and the boating season wraps up, it is important to store boating tools and supplies properly so they can be reused year after year.

Boat tools According to marine surveyor and former senior editor of “Boatworks” Mark Corke, one way to combat having rusty tools later is to buy good quality tools to start with, then when it is time to store them, spray them with a product like WD-40 and keep them in an airtight box. Other ways to keep your boating tools in good condition are to remove them from the boat before covering it in the cold season and to take them home where they can be stored safely in a garage or tool shed. Corke created his own home storage

space with PVC pipe to keep tools safe and separate. “Lengths of PVC pipe are cut on the chop saw and screwed to a convenient wall or bulkhead, both fast and cheap,” Corke wrote in his blog. “Some tools, such as bolt cutters do not require caps on the bottom of the tube but others, such as those used to hold screwdrivers and suchlike, do.”

Life jackets Storage of life jackets during the offseason is a little different. Boaters recommend keeping them in a dry, cool, dark place. Leaving a life jacket in the sun can damage the material and change its color. Heat can damage the material too, and water spawns bacteria and mold. To prevent mold and mildew on life jackets,

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Boats require special care. Though docking a boat is an option for long-term storage, to keep a vessel safe from winter weather, storing it indoors is better for the boat. In Smithville there are several storage locations around town where a boat can be kept. These are good options for boaters who do not have room in their garages or don’t live locally and want to leave their watercraft closer to the lake. Every boat should also have a snug-fitting surface cover, boater Marvin McNabb said. This is a good option during the fall when boats are at a dock or slip on rainy days.

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NATURE

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Lake area ideal for bird watching Bird watchers enjoy taking out their binoculars and finding an adventure. At Smithville Lake, the birds are almost as varied as the season. Smithville park ranger Jaime Picken with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said there are some white pelicans that can be seen around the lake in October and April. “Occasionally we get snowy owls that move through the area,” she said. “I have seen a few loons on the lake, and they are unique. They really are not usually in this range of climate either.” As the leaves fall from the trees or become more sparse, the raptors or birds of prey become more visible in the trees. “The hawks are often more visible,” Picken said. “The other thing I like is the snow geese. Sometimes they will sit in the middle of the lake and it looks like a white cloud has

when bird watching,” Picken said. According to the Audubon Society, the cardinal is a common bird seen in Missouri all year long, but during the winter they seem more abundant than usual. Both black-capped and Carolina chickadees can be found in the winter months. The black-capped chickadee has more of a buff or orange color, while the Carolina chickadee is mostly gray overall. Missouri Depar tment of Conver sation The black-capped is brighter, Snow geese cluster together on Smithville Lake during the fall and winter. with more of a white on the face, wings, and tail, and they the fall. The teal’s powder-blue are just a bit larger. They are descended on the lake in the wing patches and the pintail’s both have big heads and short, wintertime.” sharply pointed tail feathers Waterfowl migration will squat bodies. make them easy to identify. soon take over Missouri skies Some of the most comPicken said some of the as the lake is on the Interstate mon woodpeckers include 35 corridor, which is the migra- smaller songbirds never leave the red-headed and pileated and find homes in nests or tory path, Picken said. woodpecker. Both are found The Canadian geese make a birdhouses. Bird watchers may in the area. Missouri’s state spot black-capped chickadees, bird, the eastern bluebird, also stop as well as other ducks. Blue-winged teal and pintails cardinals and woodpeckers. sometimes stays around the “The trick is to be patient are the first ducks to arrive in area.

Bald eagles return in winter Bald eagles that take up residence at Smithville Lake in the winter will be the star performers during the 25th annual Eagle Days in January of 2020 at Paradise Pointe Golf Complex, 18212 Golf Course Drive, Smithville. During the events, held the first Saturday and Sunday of the month, live eagle programs are typically presented, along with information and displays of other raptors and wildlife. The show birds

have been certified as not being able to survive in the wild. Spotting scopes are set up during Eagle Days to view bald eagles in the wild. Smithville Lake is home to multiple active nests, which can be 7 feet in diameter and 10 feet deep. Bald eagles build the largest nests among birds. Eagle Days is a partnership of the Missouri Department of Conservation, the U.S.

Army Corps of Engineers, Clay County Parks and Recreation Department and other public and private conservation partners. Cameras and binoculars are encouraged, and visitors are advised to dress for cold weather. To learn more about Smithville Lake’s Eagle Days, search “Eagle Days” online at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website, www.nwk.usace.army.mil.

Courier-Tribune Photo

American bald eagles and other predatory birds are the focus of presentations the first weekend in January during Eagle Days at Paradise Pointe Golf Complex.

NATURE

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Cleaning up lake area takes effort by all

Unauthorized dumping illegal

Each September, volunteers converge at Smithville Lake to help clean up after the busy summer recreation season. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the event. The Saturday, Sept. 28, cleanup is held in conjunction with National Public Lands Day. Clay County and Toyota partner to host the event. Individual and groups of volunteers are encouraged to participate. The event will include a half-day of cleanup, free picnic lunch and a patch for each participant. Volunteers will meet at 9 a.m. at the Sailboat Cove/Goeckel Shelter west of Paradise, located in the 4400 block of Paradise Road. All volunteers must register at bit.ly/cleanMetro Creative upday19 by Friday, Sept. 20. For questions, The annual Smithville Lake Clean-up Day is held in email kfitzgerald@claycountymo.gov or call conjunction with National Public Lands Day. Clay 816-407-3653. County and Toyota partner to host the event.

Unauthorized dumping at Smithville Lake is illegal. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Missouri Department of Conservation and local law enforcement watch for illegal dumping at the lake. Law enforcement agencies also ask for the public’s assistance to keep the lake free of dumped materials by reporting license plate numbers and descriptions of anyone seen dumping illegally. Reports can be made to: ❯❯ Corps of Engineers: 816-532-0174 ❯❯ Clay County Parks: 816-407-3400 ❯❯ Clay County Sheriff: 816-407-3700

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SAFETY

Fall Outdoor Activities 2019

Emergency and helpful numbers Health Care

Missouri Department of Conservation

Northland Regional Ambulance District... 911 or 858-4450 Saint Luke’s North Hospital — Smithville..... 816-532-5700 Poison Control............................................... 800-222-1222

Conservation Agent Brian Bartlett................ 816-835-6087

Law Enforcement Clay County Park Rangers............................. 816-407-3400 Clay County Sheriff’s Office...........................816-407-3750 Clay County WeTip crime reporting................800-78-CRIME Clinton County Sheriff’s Office......................816-539-2156 Missouri Highway Patrol................................ 816-622-0800 Missouri Water Patrol, nonemergency...........573-751-3333 Missouri Water Patrol, emergency................800-525-5555 ...................................................................55 on a cellphone Platte County Sheriff’s Office....................... 816-858-3521 Smithville Area Fire Protection District........ 816-532-4902 Smithville Police Department....................... 816-532-0500 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Emergency Operations.................................. 816-389-3102

Lake Offices Clay County Park Office................................ 816-407-3400 Jerry L. Litton Visitor Center.......................... 816-532-0174 Marina-Camp Branch.....................................816-407-3420 Marina-Paradise Pointe.................................816-532-5376 Paradise Pointe Golf Complex........................816-532-4100

Civic Offices Clay County Administration Building............ 816-407-3600 Smithville Animal Shelter.............................. 816-532-0577 Smithville City Hall........................................ 816-532-3897 Smithville Parks Department........................ 816-532-8130 Smithville R-II School District ...................... 816-532-0406 Smithville Street Department....................... 816-532-2080 Smithville Water Department........................ 816-532-0577

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