CONSERVATION FEDERATION
The Voice for Missouri Outdoors JULY 2017 - VOL 78 | NO. 4
Director’s Message
Conservationist Lead on Climate Change
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onvergence is a short film recently released by Conservation Hawks with the support of numerous partners that showcases the effects of climate change on fisheries. Numerous anglers, professional guides and business leaders appear in the film giving testimony as to how water impacts their life and what concerns they have for our future. Conservation Hawks is a nonprofit organization made up of hunters and anglers who rally behind their motto: "Hunters and anglers defending our future." According to their website, Conservation Hawks focus their time and money on climate change “because serious, human-caused climate impacts are bad for hunters and anglers all over America.” Anyone who made it through elementary school science class understands Earth has experienced substantial shifts in climate throughout her history. The Pleistocene Epoch, or Ice Age, isn’t something people debate. Our landscape shows evidence of massive, shifting glaciers. Yet, right now, our rapidly warming planet is somehow a public controversy even though science proves the planet is becoming warmer every year. I feel like if you deny climate change today, it's the equivalent of arguing the earth wasn’t beginning to cool about 1.8 million years ago. If you must, forget for a minute how nearly every scientist alive concludes climate change is real and is a real threat to mankind, and let’s just use good old-fashioned common sense. The Ice Age ended about 11,700 years ago. For the Ice Age to end, the world had to be heating up, right? So we agree the world was heating up before modern humans began to explode in population and started to burn fossil fuels. If the Ice Age lasted close to two million years and we are only about 12,000 years from the end of that period, we should expect the warming period we are in to last quite a long time. So the real controversy lies in the question of whether or not man is having an impact on climate change. The answer to that is, how could we not be? Our population has exploded and so have our needs. Feeding 7.5 billion people is an incredible demand on our planet.
Out of necessity, farmed animal populations have also exploded. Those animals play a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions. The machinery required to farm contributes. So do vehicles and most methods of energy production. Look, I’m not about to sell my truck Some small streams that have historically and start walking held trout are today becoming too warm in the summer months to sustain such everywhere I go. I’ll never give up eating populations. (Photo: Courtesy of Brandon Butler) meat, and I really, really like my air conditioner during July in the Midwest. These comforts of modern life are awesome, and there’s no denying how lucky we are to have technology that allows us to hop on a plane and land thousands of miles away in mere hours. No one is going to take these modern conveniences away from you. But we must strive for greater efficiency with less impact. I’m certainly appreciative of agriculture and industry for what they provide my life. But facts are facts, and there are costs for these comforts. Costs future generations are going to have deal with. Each morning, I wake up and see a little more grey in my beard. As I approach 40, the reality of my mortality is evident in the mirror. I have reached the point in life where one begins to put serious thought into what the world will be like when I’m gone, and like most people, I want the world to be better 100 years from now than it is today. I want future generations to experience and come to appreciate the wild places I love, so those places continue to thrive forever. For this to happen, it is on us to protect our planet today.
Yours in Conservation, Brandon Butler Executive Director, CFM JULY - 2017
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CONTENTS
Conservation Federation July 2017 - V 78 No. 4
Features
OFFICERS Ron Coleman
President
Gary Van De Velde
1st Vice President
Mossie Schallon
2nd Vice President
Richard Mendenhall Secretary Randy Washburn
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STAFF Brandon Butler
Executive Director & Editor
Rehan Nana
Director of Corporate Relations
Micaela Haymaker
Director of Operations
Laurie Coleman
Membership Director
Jennifer Sampsell
Education & Outreach Coordinator
Learn tips and tricks for jig fishing on Lake Taneycomo.
Tyler Schwartze
Events Manager
Missouri's Native Bees: Important Pollinators
Emma Kessinger
Creative Director
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Treasurer
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The Jig is Up
The honeybee is Missouri's state insect and does some very important work.
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Floating the Upper Jack's Fork River
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE
Enjoy all that summer has to offer while experiencing Missouri's outdoors.
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State Parks Encourage Pollinator Populations State parks play an important role in helping Missouri's pollinators.
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Running and Gunning for Summer Catfish Before you hit the lake this summer get some tips for catching catfish.
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Prevent Epic Floods in the First Place With some preparation, we can help prevent epic floods.
Departments 3 6 8 10
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Director’s Message Business Alliance Spotlight President's Message Member News Memorials New Members Gear Guide Calendar Affiliate Spotlight Agency News
Highlights 19 25 39 40 41 49
David Calandro: A Conservation Youth Leader Kansas City and St. Joe Event Recaps NWF Creates Sportswomen Alliance Monarch Mania Event Bay Farm Research Facility and its Soybean Research Don Robinson Remembered
Correction: May 2017 Issue, Page 65: Peter Sorintino was incorrectly identified as Peter Sprinting.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
CFM Mission: To ensure conservation of Missouri’s wildlife and natural resources, and preservation of our state’s rich outdoor heritage through advocacy, education and partnerships. Conservation Federation is the publication of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (ISSN 1082-8591). Conservation Federation (USPS 012868) is published bi-monthly in January, March, May, July, September and November for subscribers and members. Of each member’s dues, $10 shall be for a year’s subscription to Conservation Federation. Periodical postage paid in Jefferson City, MO and additional mailing offices. Send address changes to: LColeman@confedmo.org | 573-634-2322
FRONT COVER Bee on flower Photo: slkoceva (ID: 498474861)
Business Alliance
Thank you to all of our Business Alliance members. Platinum
Gold
Silver
Alps OutdoorZ Bushnell Diamond Pet Foods Enbridge, Inc. G3 Boats Kansas City Zoo MidwayUSA Pure Air Natives Redneck Blinds Riley Chevrolet Roeslein Alternative Energy, LLC United Country Real Estate US Sun Solar
Aberdeen, South Dakota Advantage Metals Recycling Burgers’ Smokehouse Custom Metal Products Doolittle Trailer Forrest Keeling Nursery G&W Meat & Bavarian Style Sausage Co. Jaguar Land Rover St. Louis Learfield Communication, Inc. Lilley’s Landing Resort & Marina Logboat Brewing Missouri Wildflowers Nursery Mitico
Moneta Group National Feather-Craft Co. SportDOG Brand Starline, Inc. Sydenstrickers Tiger Hotel
Hodgdon Powder Company, Inc. Inn at Grand Glaize Missouri Wine & Grape Board NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.
Sierra Bullets, LLC Walter Knoll Florist
Greenbrier Wetland Services Grundy Electric Cooperative, Inc. HMI Fireplace Shops Hulett Heating & Air Conditioning J&B Outdoors Kansas City Parks and Recreation Kleinschmidt’s Western Store Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative Meramec Bison Farm, LLC Midwest Mailing Service Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Credit Union
Missouri Deer Classic Missouri Teardrops MTAR Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc. REMAX Boone Realty Shade Tree Service, Inc. St. Joseph Harley Davidson Tabor Plastics Company Tanks Pawn & Gun Truman’s Bar & Grill United Electric Cooperative, Inc. White River Valley Electric Cooperative
Bronze Association of Missouri Electric Coop. Black Widow Custom Bows, Inc. Drury Hotels Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc.
Iron Bass Pro Shops (Independence) Blue Ridge Bank and Trust Blue Springs School District Blue Springs Park and Recreation Bob McCosh Chevrolet Buick GMC Brown Printing Cap America Central Bank Columbia Daily Tribune Dickerson Park Zoo Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association General Printing Service
Your business can benefit by supporting conservation. Contact Rehan Nana: 573-634-2322 or RNana@confedmo.org. JULY - 2017
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Business Alliance
Bushnell: Keeping an Eye on the Outdoors
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hances are if you’re an outdoorsman, you’ve heard of Bushnell. The company has been an industry leader in high-performance sports optics for more than 65 years. You may even own Bushnell optics. Bushnell is a company that produces tools for you to enjoy the outdoors. However, that scope or pair of binoculars is not just a tool; it’s something else – it’s a symbol of a corporation holding itself to a higher conservation standard. A corporation that doesn’t just help you enjoy the outdoors, but also helps you stay outdoors through its dedication to providing a national conservation and outdoor ethos.
“So much conservation work is done at the state and local level, so partnering with organizations that can tailor their policy and habitat initiatives is so important,” said Ryan Bronson, Director of Conservation for Vista Outdoor. “That is why we are partnering with CFM in Missouri, and why we support their conservation mission.”
We, as Missourians, are lucky to have Missouri businesses that support CFM. Missouri has some of the strongest outdoor businesses in the country. To have a company like Bushnell, a Kansas City-based company with a footprint that spans the entire globe, that doesn’t forget about the little guy, is appreciated.
The reason for this is because conservation extends top down from Vista Outdoor. In 2016, the company “Conservation Counts” campaign began to group and align the conservation efforts of their 50 brands. Vista core tenants of the company’s conservation philosophy sound more like a conservation organization than a corporation. Their tenants include:
A business as large as Bushnell has limited time and resources, so for it to dedicate its time and resources to a state-specific group like CFM, is truly telling of their dedication to the outdoors. Many companies of this size only support national groups or initiatives. Bushnell, however, joined the business alliance program last year as a Gold Business Alliance member, and since has supported CFM in many ways.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Bushnell and Vista Outdoor brands support a litany of other conservation and outdoor initiatives. In FY16, the company provided nearly $84 million to fund wildlife conservation in the United States through the Pittman-Robertson excise tax.
• It is our responsibility to leave the world in a better condition than how we found it. • Increasing participation in outdoor recreation benefits conservation because people protect the things they value. • Public lands are economically and socially valuable and should be protected. • Public lands must be accessible.
Business Alliance • Public lands should be managed for multiple uses in a sustainable manner, and tolerance between user groups should be promoted as a culture and public policy. • Conservation is bi-partisan. • Hunting and the shooting sports are critical components of conservation in North America. • We reject the labels that some outdoor recreationists are “consumptive users” and some are “non-consumptive”. We all have impacts. We strive for our impacts to be more positive than negative. • Our customers are diverse, and their motivations to be involved in the outdoors vary, but what unifies outdoor recreationists is a connection to wild places, wild things, and the enjoyment we derive from being outdoors “Through my conservation career, Vista Outdoor has time and time again proven itself an industry leader in conservation and environmental responsibility. They are a company that truly ‘puts their money
where their customers are’ – the outdoors. Their support has allowed CFM to continue protecting Missouri’s outdoors and outdoor heritage,” said Rehan Nana, Director of Corporate Relations for the Conservation Federation of Missouri. Vista Outdoor Brands Include: Bee Stinger Bell Sports, Blackburn, Bolle, Bushnell, CamelBAK, Camp Chef, Cebe, Final Approach, Giro, gold Tip, Jimmy Styks, Krash, Milett, Night Optics, Primo, Raskullz, Serengeti Eyewear, Simmons Optics, Tasco, Weaver Optics, Alliant Powder, American Eagle, Black!, Blazer Ammunition, Butler Creek, CCI, Champion, Eagle Industries, Estate Cartridge, Federal Premium, Force on force, Gunmate, Gunslick Pro, Hoppe’s 9, Independence Ammo, M-Pro 7, Outers, RCBS, Redfiel, Savage Arms, Speer Ammo, Speer bullets, Stevens Arms, and Uncle Mike’s. Rehan Nana Director of Corporate Relations, CFM Photo Courtesy of Bushnell
JULY - 2017
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President’s Message
Fifty Years of Clean Streams
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t is summer and our weekends and vacation days now turn to time on our cool refreshing spring fed Missouri Waters and the outdoors. Many of us who enjoy our Missouri outdoors have river stories. It may have been a memorable float trip on one of our many beautiful Missouri streams, a family camping trip in one of our stream side state parks, landing a smallmouth, goggle-eye or rainbow trout while canoeing or fly fishing. My story encompasses all of the above and more, but spans over 50 years of river stewardship and volunteerism on the part of thousands of organizations and hundreds of thousands of loyal and dedicated Missourians-both young and old who have given freely of their time, energy and resources to protect and enhance our state network of rivers and streams. Such activities have included river clean-ups, fish and wildlife habitat improvement, water quality monitoring, educational activities and recreational events just to highlight a few categories of involvement that have worked to the benefit of our Missouri waters over the years. As I reflect back on just how this flood of enthusiasm for engagement in protecting our precious water resources started I would be remise if I did not mention two particular programs that I have had a personal interest in over the years and that still continues today. In August of 1967, fifty years ago a band of about 100 self proclaimed river rats gathered on a gravel bar on the Lower Meramec River in what is today part of Castlewood State Park in St. Louis County to conduct the first “Conservation Clean-up and Beer Party”. That project evolved to become Operation Clean Stream (OCS) sponsored annually by the Open Space Council for the St. Louis Region.
Meramec River Glencoe Access. (Photo: Courtesy of Ron Coleman)
Today the event attracts over 2000 volunteers and covers over 500 river miles in the Meramec River Basin, OCS is held on the fourth Saturday in August each year, it has come to be known as one of America’s largest and longest ongoing river clean-ups of its kind. The 50th Annual Operation Clean Stream will be held this year on Saturday, August 26th. Congratulations “Clean streamers” in reaching this milestone. Roughly 20 years later the Missouri Stream Program emerges with five initial teams to spawn what would become one of the most successful citizen volunteer stream stewardship initiatives in the nation. A collaborative partnership between the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources there are now over 5,000 stream teams statewide. As you are out enjoying our lakes or streams this summer please think about the good work of all of our thousands of volunteer Clean Streamers and Stream Teamers who are committed to protecting our waterways and making your time on the water a more rewarding experience.
Yours in Conservation, Ron Coleman President, CFM
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Committed to Community & Conservation Owned by the members they serve, Missouri’s electric cooperatives do more than provide reliable and affordable electricity. They are active in their communities, concerned for the wellbeing of their neighbors and devoted to the rural way of life that makes the Show-Me State a special place to live, work and play. Missouri’s electric cooperatives are dedicated to protecting the land, air and water resources important to you and your quality of life. Learn more at www.amec.coop. JULY - 2017
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Member News
&
Honorariums
Memorials
In memory of David Risberg
In memory of John Diehl Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Jefferson City Michael & Cheryl Chandler, Holt Farmers' Electric Cooperative, Chillicothe Ida Jane Garnett, Slater
Maureen Brennan & Thomas Brock, McLean, VA
James & Angela Kinard, Lawson
Roy & Nancy Brown, Kirkwood
NW Electric Power Cooperative, Cameron
John Kemper, Saint Louis
Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative, Kearney
Thomas & Marian Rollins, Columbia, IL
Byron Roach, Cameron
Walter & Nora Tabler, Seattle, WA
Jennifer Schoonover, Trimble
Trent Tinsley, Eureka
Stephen & Barbara Taylor, Slater Jerry Venable & Russy Johnson, Slater Ron & Karen Venable, Slater
The importance of your motor running well, especially in tournament fishing, is to get you there quicker. Spend more time fishing instead of more time traveling. That’s why Crappie Masters supports gasoline blended with 10 percent ethanol - a fuel made from corn grown in America. Mike Vallentine, Crappie Masters President
Get the truth about ethanol. www.mocorn.org 2014 Crappie Mag_Half Page.indd 1
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
11/5/2014 1:00:44 PM
Member News
WELCOME NEW CFM MEMBERS Chris Abernathy, Columbia Norma Ackley, Jefferson City Darrin Addison, Kansas City, KS Annette Alden, Jefferson City Brent Alego, Ozark Craig Amick, Lebanon Matthew Amick, Jefferson City Jim Anderson, Jefferson City Levi Bachmann, Perryville Sherry Baker, Jackson Judson Ball, Columbia Greg Banaka, Sedalia Jay Barber, Marshfield Traci Batman, Kansas City, KS Doug Bauer, Saint Louis Larry Bauman, Augusta Doug Bean, Arlington Heights, IL Willard Bean, Jefferson City Lawrence Besmer, Saint Louis Elizabeth Biddick, Florissant Roger Bills, Springfield Gino Biondi, Overland Park, KS Carolyn Bohne, Raytown Andrew Bouquet, Ballwin Eric Bowen, Ellisville Allan Branstetter, Jefferson City John Braun, Columbia Philip Burger, California Patricia Buskuehl, Saint Louis Drew Ceperley, Springfield Debora Champagne, Independence Jeff Clobes, Chandler, AZ Steve Coffman, Pacific Carolyn Colvin, Columbia Amy Conrad, Troy Frances Cook, Saint Louis Warren Coonce, Wasilla, AK Martha Creason, O'Fallon Pat Daly, Sedalia Morris Dearing, Kansas City Marc Deiter, Columbia Mark Diaz, Highlandville Lawrence Diehle, Saint Louis Trevor Donahoo, Linn Gary & Michele Dougherty, Blue Springs Jeff & Stevy Dougherty, Blue Springs Kenneth Drewes, Saint Louis David Durbin, Jefferson City Amber Edwards, Columbia
Mike Eutsler, Springfield Scott Faiman, Columbia Bill Fessler, Kansas City Jay Fischer, Jefferson City Drew Fletcher, California Keith Fletcher, California Tyler Frazee, Columbia Gary Freymiller, Saint Louis Brian Gale, Fenton Carlene Gerhardt, Saint Charles Rob Gerling, Jefferson City Martha Gersten, Saint Louis Arthur Goodall, Lake Saint Louis Joe Grafeman, Lake Ozark Bill Graham, Platte City Jeff Hahn, Dittmer Tim Hahn, Cedar Hill Aaron Hale, Independence Vernon Hasten, Rogersville Zach Hein, Lawrence, KS Joseph Hightower, Columbia Paul Hill, Bowling Green Chris Hodgdon, Shawnee, KS Joel Hodgdon, Shawnee, KS Bruce Hoecker, Jefferson City Tracy Hoover, Kansas City Doug Hughes, Fulton Tyson Hunt, Columbia Matthew Hunter, Liberty Ruth Hyman, Saint Louis Terry Ickes, Lebanon Wally Iman, Columbia Brian Jacobs, Kingsville Edith Johnson, Revere Theresa Kingsley, Lake Tapawingo Shane Kinne, Ashland Eric Kirberg, Wildwood Kyle Kirby, Liberal William Kist, Saint Louis Tim Kjellesvik, High Ridge Cheryl Knight, Rogers, AR Ruth Kraemer, Saint Louis Bill Kriesmann, Wentzville David Ladd, Columbia Anthony Lee, Smithville John Lee, Smithville Rob LeForce, Springfield Thomas Ley, Springfield Eric Lovelace, Elsberry Robert Lyttle, Foristell Karen Maggine, Columbia
Brian Maloney, Osage Beach David Maltby, Springfield, IL Gary Marshall, Jefferson City Gatlin Marshall, Jefferson City Scott Martin, Huntsville Donald Martinez, Platte City Jennifer Martinez, Platte City Chris Massman, Jefferson City Harry Mauchenheimer, Sullivan Michael McKinley, Chamois James Meehan, Steedman John Meese, Overland Park, KS Clint Mermis, Overland Park, KS David Miller, Grain Valley Craig Moeller, Jefferson City Thaddaeus Moody, Springfield Richard Moore, Jefferson City W. Moran, Kansas City Mike Moreland, Harrisonville Chad Morganthaler, Reeds Spring Jason Morton, Excelsior Springs Austin Mouse, California Chris Mouse, California John Murphy, Kirksville Evan Myers, Kansas City Nip Neidert, Jefferson City Jarrod Nichols, Overland Park, KS Kyle Nishi, Overland Park, KS Arthur Oestereich, Saint Charles Pablo Oleiro, Columbia Douglas Oncken, Columbia Chet Owen, Maysville Greg Palkowitsh, Overland Park, KS John & Marilyn Parker, Columbia Tamara Peoples, Kansas City Teresa Phelps, Lebanon Dennis Pickett, Bridgeton Zach Pollack, Jefferson City Gary Porter, Mercer Gardell Powell, Columbia Perry Ptacek, Ipswich, SD Tim Renwick, Columbia Brian Rhea, Minneapolis, MN Judy Richardson, Saint Louis Kyle Riley, Jefferson City Ryan Riley, Jefferson City Chris Roach, Saint Louis Cody Roggatz, Saline, KS Brent Ross, Springfield Matt Roth, Ballwin Nancy Rucker, Excelsior Springs
Sarah Rutter, Columbia Rob & Julie Savage, Independence Bradley Schad, Versailles Bob Schermer, Nixa Mark Scott, Wentzville Andrew Sharp, Columbia Cassie Sinthusy, Grain Valley Kit Sinthusy, Grain Valley Curtis Smith, Overland Park, KS Steve Smith, Overland Park, KS William Smith, Summersville Tamara Snodgrass, Saint James Tim Steuber, Jefferson City Dale Stockman, Wardsville Steven Strejcek, Clever Judith Swehla, Robertsville Marcus Sykora, Osage Beach Shawn & Christina Taylor, Tecumseh Lucinda Terrel, Smithville Shawn Terrel, Smithville Emmilee Thomason, Springfield Jon Thruston, Jefferson City Judy Tripp, Holts Summit Jim Trueblood, Valley Park Scott Turnage, Springfield James Turner, Jr., Rolla Jake Vanbecelaere, Overland Park, KS Jason Vanderbrink, Overland Park, KS Stefanie Virgen, Washington Alexandra Vollman, Saint Louis Rich Walline, Overland Park, KS Aaron Waterman, Lebanon Russell Weatherly, Springfield Casey Weismantel, Aberdeen, SD Joe Werth, Jefferson City Ben West, O'Fallon Jim Westpfahl, Raymore Tammy White, Troy Doug Wickham, Sedalia Mark Wilson, Battlefield Patrick Wilson, Columbia Connor Woods, Saint Louis Bo Young, Elsberry Ryan Zachary, Lebanon
CFM would like to thank the 308 members that renewed since our last publication. JULY - 2017
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Member News
Gear Guide White River Fly Shop Rod and Reel Case – BUSINESS ALLIANCE When you invest in good fly fishing equipment, you must do what you can to protect those valuable rods and reels. The White River Fly Shop Double Rod and Reel Case has the best rod and reel insurance available. These affordably priced White River Fly Shop Rod and Reel Cases feature rugged 1000 denier Cordura material over a durable PVC protective tube. They’re lightweight, easy-to-carry, have oversized YKK zippers and are lined with nylon for additional padding. They’re made in a nice olive color. www.basspro.com
TRUGLO Gobble Stopper Red
Dot Scope
Did you miss a turkey this past season, or passed a shot because you didn't feel confident? The TRUGLO Gobble Stopper Dual Color 1x30 Scope is adjustable, shock-resistant and specially designed for turkey hunting. This scope is lightweight with multi-coated lenses that create more than 95 percent light transmittance. Its anti-reflective interior stops light from entering the sight, while the detachable and extendable sunshade eliminates glare. Fogproof and waterproof, it has a wide field view, adjustable rheostat for brightness control and an integrated Weaver-style mounting system. www.truglo.com
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet As the only full line of American-made cast iron cookware, Lodge boasts quality that has been unmatched for over a century. Even heating, a natural easy-release finish, versatility and durability are the hallmarks of their great cookware. Lodge doesn't just make cast iron; they make heirlooms that bring people together for generations. Cast iron cooking begins with a skillet. Superior heat retention and a generous size make the Lodge 15-inch skillet a welcome addition to any cook set. www.lodgemfg.com
Moultrie Food Plot Spreader Specially designed for planting food plots on and around your property, Moultrie’s ATV Food Plot Spreader lets you get up and running in just five easy steps. A convenient shut-off gate allows you to regulate the amount of seed dispensed while a quick-disconnect feature lets you detach the spreader in a snap once you’re done. Featuring a rust-proof, tapered plastic hopper that ensures the complete unloading of all seed or fertilizer, the ATV Food Plot Spreader also has universal mounting brackets that make it compatible with most ATV models. www.moultriefeeders.com
Ascend D10T Sit-On-Top Kayak – BUSINESS ALLIANCE Packed with features of higher priced kayaks, the Ascend® D10T Sit-On-Top Kayak delivers great performance out on the water at a great value. Designed to meet the needs of all kayakers, the D10T starts with an advanced tunnel hull design, incorporating hydrodynamics that balance stability, maneuverability, and speed. The Deluxe Seat provides all day comfort with its extra padding and ergonomic, fully adjustable design. Durable high-density polyethylene construction. Length: 10'. Width: 34". Weight: 62 lbs. www.basspro.com
JULY - 2017
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Member News
CALENDAR UPCOMING AFFILIATE EVENTS BOONE'S LICK CHAPTER MASTER NATURALIST JULY 1-2: Butterfly Festival Kickoff, Jefferson Farm (9:30am - 4pm) JULY 1: Hike to Hidden Treasures, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia (1:30 - 3:30pm) JULY 5: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 JULY 8: Crawdads Stream Team Cleanup, Columbia (8 - 11am); Lisa Rohmiller (573) 874-7499 JULY 8-9: Garden Butterfly Festival Bumblebee Jamboree, Jefferson Farm (9:30am - 4pm) JULY 12: Prairie Seed Collection, Tucker Prairie JULY 12: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 JULY 14: Family Fishing Nights, Jefferson Farm (5:30 - 8pm); Amy Dooley (573) 239-6134 JULY 15-16: Garden Butterfly Festival Pollinator Cafe, Jefferson Farm (9:30am - 4pm) JULY 19: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 JULY 22-23: Garden Butterfly Festival Birds, Bats and Bugs Bonanza, Jefferson Farm (9:30am - 4pm) JULY 26: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 JULY 27: Prairie Seed Collection, Tucker Prairie JULY 29-30: Garden Butterfly Festival - Celebrating the Arts, Jefferson Farm (9:30am - 4pm) AUG 2: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 AUG 5: Hike to Hidden Treasures, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia (1:30 - 3:30pm) AUG 9: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 AUG 11: Family Fishing Nights, Jefferson Farm (5:30 - 8pm); Amy Dooley (573) 239-6134
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
AUG 12: Crawdads Stream Team Cleanup, Columbia (8 - 11am); Lisa Rohmiller (573) 874-7499 AUG 16: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 AUG 17: Prairie Seed Collection, Prairie Fork AUG 23: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 AUG 30: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm), Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 AUG 31: Prairie Seed Collection, Tucker Prairie FOREST RELEAF OF MISSOURI JULY 7: Connecting to Nature Challenge, Tree Maintenance Day, Sublette Park, Saint Louis (9 - 11am) JULY 15: Free Monthly Nursery Tour, CommuniTree Gardens, Forest Park, St. Louis (10am - 12pm) JULY 19: Young Friends Weeding Happy Hour, CommuniTree Gardens, Forest Park, St. Louis (6:30 - 9pm) GREENWAY NETWORK JULY 3: Board Meeting, St. Peters (7 - 9pm) JULY 19: CSI E. coli Project, Dardenne Creek (9am - 12pm) AUG 7: Board Meeting, St. Peters (7 9pm) AUG 16: CSI E. coli Project, Dardenne Creek (8 - 11am) AUG 26: Race for the Rivers MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION JULY 12: Monthly Meeting, American Legion Hall, Brentwood (7:30pm) AUG 9: Monthly Meeting, American Legion Hall, Brentwood (7:30pm)
MISSOURI COALITION FOR THE ENVIRONMENT JULY 9-13: Missouri River Academy High School Summer Camp, New Haven JULY 12: FSM Prayer Vigil for West Lake Landfill, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am)
JULY 20: West Lake Landfill Community Meeting, Bridgeton (6:30 - 8:30pm) JULY 26: West Lake Landfill Prayer Vigil, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) AUG 9: FSM Prayer Vigil for West Lake Landfill, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) AUG 17: West Lake Landfill Community Meeting, Bridgeton (6:30 - 8:30pm) AUG 23: West Lake Landfill Prayer Vigil, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED JULY 1: Lost Creek Social, Wallace State Park, Cameron (11:30am - 2:30pm); Nik Perkins (816) 724-1504 JULY 22: State Committee Grand Giveaway, Knights of Columbus, Columbia (1 - 5pm); Rick Limback (816) 682-1392 AUG 5: Sponsor Dinner, Fraternal Order of the Eagles #4279, Eldorado Springs (6 - 10pm); Scott Berning (417) 876-8014 MISSOURI FOREST PRODUCTS ASSOCIATION JULY 21-23: Summer Meeting, Old Kinderhook, Camdenton MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION JULY 16: Wheelin' Sportsmen Platte Purchase, Pony Express Museum, St. Joseph (5:30pm); Edward Helsel (816) 596-0513 JULY 22: NEMO, Sesqui Building, Palmyra (5:30pm); Melissa Sharkey (573) 796-3476 JULY 22: Wheelin' Sportsmen Shoot, Lucas Oil Speedway Race Track, Wheatland (5pm); David Howlett (573) 765-8568 JULY 22: Finley River Chapter, Christian County Elks, Ozark (5pm); Scharlene Hughes (417) 581-7863 AUG 4: Dry Ford Strutters, Oak Meadow Country Club, Rolla (5:30pm); Joseph Malters (573) 364-1550 AUG 5: Locust Creek Longbeards, Community Center, Milan (5:30pm); Kirk Hendershott (660) 216-9991
Member News AUG 5: Ozark Mountain Gobblers, Arcadia Valley Elks, Pilot Knob (5pm); Kenneth Sherrill (573) 546-3392 AUG 12: Rhine Valley Chapter, St. George Church, Hermann (5pm); Lyndon Ruediger (573) 294-7189 AUG 12: Ritchie Meredith Memorial Chapter, Elm Branch Church, Aurora (5pm); Brian Fronabarger (417) 840-4797 AUG 19: River Bottom Gobblers, Armory, Caruthersville (5pm); Mickey Moody (573) 333-0662 AUG 25: Nolan R. Hutcheson Memorial, Intercounty Electric, Licking (5:30pm); Randy Lewis (417) 260-5602 AUG 25: Turkey Shoot, Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Florissant; Jeff Beumer (314) 222-2222 AUG 26: Perry County Beards and Spurs, Knights of Columbus, Perryville (5pm); Dominic Blythe (573) 768-0878 AUG 26: David Blanton Memorial, YMCA, Mountain Grove (5pm); Darren & Lori Jones (417) 746-4854
AUG 18: Insect-O-Rama, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield (6:30 - 9pm) AUG 31: Fly Fishing Class, Missouri State University - Kemper Hall, Springfield (6 9pm)
MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATION JULY 22: Board Meeting (10am) JULY 23: 2nd Annual Prairie School AUG 1: Grow Native! Workshop, MU South Farm, Columbia AUG 5: Annual Dinner, MU Alumni Center, Columbia AUG 21: Prairie Eclipse Party, Belwood Family Farm
OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB JULY 8: Stream Team Water Quality Testing, Blue River, Kansas City (10 - 11am) JULY 8: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30 - 7:30pm) JULY 8: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30 - 9pm) JULY 11-12: Lower Elk River, River Ranch Resort, Noel JULY 14: Day on the Lake, Crows Creek Park, Smithville (8am - 2pm) JULY 26: Missouri River, Napoleon (9am - 2pm) AUG 11-12: Meteor Float, Kaw River, Lawrence, KS AUG 12: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30 - 7:30pm) AUG 12: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30 - 9pm) AUG 21-22: Solar Eclipse Float, Missouri River, Waverly
MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE AUG 25: 50th Annual Operation Clean Stream, Valley Park (5am - 8pm) MISSOURI TROUT FISHERMEN'S ASSOC. SPRINGFIELD JULY 6: Monthly Meeting, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield (6 - 9pm) JULY 8: Fly Fishing Outing, Taneycomo (8am - 5pm) JULY 28-29: Fly Fishing Fair, Lions Community Building, Branson (9am - 5pm) AUG 1: Monthly Meeting, Lions Community Building, Branson (6 - 9pm) AUG 3: Monthly Meeting, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield (6 -9pm) AUG 12-13: Fishing Derby - Bennett Springs
MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITED AUG 5: Buck Fever Banquet, Community Center, Loose Creek AUG 19: Missouri River Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus, Washington AUG 26: Boone County Disabled Freedom Hunt Banquet, Knights of Columbus, Columbia OZARK FLY FISHERS JULY 7-9: Water Quality Monitoring Club Outing, Montauk State park JULY 27: General Membership Meeting, Edgar M. Queeny County Park, Ballwin (7 - 9pm) AUG 24: General Membership Meeting, Edgar M. Queeny County Park, Ballwin (7 - 9pm)
POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES JULY 14-15: Outing, Lake St. Clair; Denis Ledgerwood (636) 346-4288 JULY 22: Lindley Arm Tour, Pomme de Terre Lake; Earle Hammond (417) 993-0035 AUG 19: Pomme Arm Tour, Pomme de Terre Lake; Earle Hammond (417) 993-0035 AUG 23-25: Gil Hamm Chapter Challenge, Red Wing Lodge, Lake of the Woods; Fred Wehrli (785) 584-6393 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION JULY 29: Osage Buglers Chapter Banquet, American Legion, Blue Springs; Faron Roschevitz (816) 694-2548 AUG 5: Ozarks Chapter Banquet, White River Conference Center, Springfield; Shirley Close (417) 207-2455 AUG 12: Lewis and Clark Trail Big Game Banquet, Jefferson City; Brad Heckman (573) 619-3416 AUG 19: SEMO Big Game Banquet, Jackson; Caitlin Marie Randolph (573) 979-1579 AUG 26: Missouri Elk Chapter Big Game Banquet, Eminence; Jim Anderson (573) 226-3893 ST. LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETY AUG 3: Birding Basics: Playing Around with Birds, Dennis and Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center, Forest Park, Saint Louis (5 - 6:30pm) AUG 5: Beginner Bird Walk, Forest Park, Saint Louis (8:15am - 10:30am) AUG 21: Total Solar Eclipse, Shaw Nature Reserve, Gray Summit (11am - 3pm) TROUTBUSTERS OF MISSOURI AUG 1: 1st Annual Bustin' with Bags Tournament, City Park Grill, St. Louis (12pm) CFM EVENTS JULY 29: Pull for Conservation, River Hills Sporting Clays, Boonville AUG 12: Explore the Outdoors, Logboat Brewing Company, Columbia
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Member News
Missouri B.A.S.S. Federation Nation 2017 Spring Fling Held as a Benefit to CFM
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he 2017 Missouri B.A.S.S. Federation Nation's (MOBASS) Spring Fling was held at Pomme de Terre Lake on Sunday, April 30. This was the seventh year the tournament was held as a benefit for the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). A portion of the entry fees were paid back to the anglers and a large percentage was donated to CFM. This year's donation totaled over $1,000. There were 39 boats entered in the tournament. Top finishers this year were: • 13.1 - 1st place - Tim Bankston/Wil Allen • 9.50 - 2nd place - Bill Dennis/Steve Olive • 8.95 - 3rd place - Jim Eagan/Mark Laudenbach • 8.70 - 4th place - Ed Shay/David Fleshman • 8.05 - 5th place - Alan Daniels/Marion Daniel • 7.55 - 6th place - Harold Stark/Jimmy Zieger • 6.00 - Big Bass - Harold Stark MOBASS and CFM would like to thank the sponsors and anglers for their support and involvement.
Harold Stark with the big bass of the day. (Photo: Courtesy of Missouri B.A.S.S)
Why I Became A CFM Life Member: Ken Babcock
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joined the staff of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in 1970 as a Wildlife Research Biologist working on waterfowl and wetlands under the direction of Bill Crawford. During new employee orientation, I was given a copy of Charles Callison's book, Man and Wildlife in Missouri. From this book, I learned that separating conservation in Missouri from other states was a strong citizen mandate that decisions impacting natural resource management not be politicized.
Eighty years ago, a group of citizen conservationists banded together to lay the foundation ensuring these critical ingredients. This citizen group evolved into the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). I worked for MDC for more than 26 years before "retiring" in 1997 to join the staff of Ducks Unlimited. During my tenure with Ducks Unlimited, I came to appreciate even more the importance of citizen volunteers to the success of the conservation enterprise. In 2013, I retired and returned home to Missouri to join the ranks of citizen conservationists. CFM continues to serve as the voice of the people who care about the state's natural resources. I joined the organization as a regular member. When it came time to renew my membership this spring, I decided to become a Life Member. This decision was driven by my appreciation for all CFM has done and continues to do in support of natural resource management. JULY - 2017
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Member News
Be a Leader! Volunteer
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leader is a “person who influences others towards the achievement of a goal,” hopefully for the greater good of society. A leader empowers others, coaches and inspires new leaders. It has to be something they DO. We encourage our Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC) students to get actively involved in conservation through volunteerism. It is important they find something they are passionate about and work to make a difference. Those that truly do get involved become some of our greatest leaders. Their actions and words inspire others. As our CLC students volunteer in a variety of conservation related activities, they have the power to encourage others to get involved. When one person gets another person involved in the conservation of our natural resources, we will continue to make progress towards sustaining those resources for future generations. Our student leaders wouldn’t have it any other way. They seek opportunities to volunteer and encourage others to follow suit. Volunteering is a great way to make a difference in your community. You may discover a new passion or even make a new friend with similar interests. There are many ways to volunteer. Commit your time, resources, and/or skills. Show your support by showing up, donate or help in other ways. There are opportunities for everyone. Volunteering is a social responsibility. The action of volunteering can make you feel good about yourself and it strengthens a resume. Volunteering is also a great way to be part of positive change.
CLC student Jessica Filla helping to plant milkweed. (Photo: CFM)
I will continue to promote opportunities for our youth to be leaders and not only a “Voice for Missouri Outdoors,” but a FORCE for Missouri outdoors. Are you a volunteer? Take the time to make a difference in your community and inspire others while you are at it. There are many conservation organizations looking for a volunteer near you. Find out what you are passionate about and devote some time to the great outdoors. Jennifer Sampsell Education and Outreach Coordinator, CFM
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Member News
David Calandro: National Conservation Youth Leader
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he National Wildlife Federation recognized David Calandro, a recent college graduate who serves on the board of the Conservation Federation of Missouri from Joplin, Missouri as its National Conservation Youth Leader of the Year. “Some folks have a knack for squeezing every hour out of every day and David Calandro is definitely one,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “David double-majored in forestry and wildlife management, while serving our country as a helicopter mechanic in the Army National Guard. Yet somehow, he still managed to find the time to found the Missouri Collegiate Conservation Alliance, a program that engages college students in conservation efforts across Missouri. His work ethic and conservation ethic are unrivaled and I look forward to big things from David for years to come.” The National Conservation Youth Leader award recognizes the special conservation achievements of youth leaders within the National Wildlife Federation affiliate ranks. The award ceremony took place at the National Wildlife Federation’s annual meeting held at Skamania Lodge, in Stevenson, Washington. “David is a special young man. He is passionate about the outdoors and wildlife conservation, and embodies the qualities we are looking for in leaders of tomorrow,” said Brandon Butler, Executive Director of the Conservation Federation of Missouri. “We are very proud to have David on our Board of Directors and appreciate his efforts to inspire the next generation of wildlife leaders.” About David Calandro David Calandro recently graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a double major in forestry and fisheries & wildlife and completed six years of service with the Army National Guard as a helicopter mechanic. Throughout his time in school, David was actively involved in The Wildlife Society, the Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Society, Forestry Club, the Society of American Foresters, and served as the student body president of the School of Natural Resources for two years.
David Calandro (center) pictured with Bruce Wallace, NWF board chair and Nicole Wood, NWF and CFM board member. (Photo: Courtesy of CFM)
Currently, David works as a wildlife technician for the United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services in Southeast Missouri, protecting Mead’s milkweed and Hine’s emerald dragonfly habitat from feral swine. David is an alumni of Conservation Federation of Missouri’s (CFM) youth education program, the Conservation Leadership Corps, and now serves on the organization’s board of directors. David has given countless hours to inspiring other young people to get involved in conservation efforts, organizing volunteer projects, and serving as a peer mentor. David founded the Missouri Collegiate Conservation Alliance, a program of CFM designed to engage college students in conservation efforts across Missouri. His passion for nature extends far beyond the classroom or workplace. David grew up spending time in the outdoors, and enjoys kayaking, fishing, biking, sailing, camping, hunting, and hiking. With both an energy and dedication for conservation, David is already making a real difference and leaving a lasting impact on others. The National Wildlife Federation is America's largest conservation organization, uniting all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in a rapidly changing world. Contact: Lacey McCormick, National Wildlife Federation, McCormick@NWF.org, 512-610-7765 Release Courtesy of NWF JULY - 2017
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Member News
Cabela's Hazelwood Upcoming Events July 1-2 • 12PM Setting up an Outdoor Kitchen - Join us as we show how to set up a camp kitchen. • 2PM Cabela’s Guidewear® Series - Learn what product will suit your needs. July 8-9 • 11AM Geo-Caching - Get the training, equipment and know how to go exploring. • 1PM Safe Drinking Water Anywhere you Go - Demonstration in water purification, water treatment options and hydration packs. July 15-16 • Saturday 10-2 Meet your Conservation Partners - Meet volunteers from conservation partners. • 11AM Tackle your tackle box - Let our Outfitters show you the must haves in your tackle box. July 22-23 • 11AM High-Tech Navigation for Hikers Discussion of GPS options and other satellite technology. • 1PM Gold Fever - Check out our metal detectors. July 29-30: (Bowhunting Classic) • 10AM-3PM Archery Challenge - Try your skills at our archery game. • 11AM-4PM Fuel your Archery Addiction - Talk with Bear® Archery representatives on the Cabela’s exclusive compound bows. • Game Cameras: Scouting Your Next Trophy - Talk with Bushnell® representatives about the features and benefits of Bushnell® trail cameras. • 11AM Treestand Setup and Safety - Learn how to utilize modern gear and follow safety rules. • 1PM After-The-Shot Q&A - Outfitters will present knowledge of tracking, packing, field dressing and game care. • Saturday 12PM Turkey Frying - Learn everything you need to get started including fryers, oils, seasonings and accessories. August 5-6 • 11AM Dove Hunting 101 - Learn about dove hunting. • 1PM Advanced Broadhead Tuning - We will demonstrate tuning tips and popular big-game broadheads.
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August 12-13 (Fall Great Outdoors Days) • Free gun cleaning demonstrations from 8AM-8PM on Saturday and 9AM-6PM on Sunday. • 10AM-4PM Mojo Motorized-Decoy Pond - Let the folks from Mojo show you how they work in the field. • Hunting From a Jon Boat - Meet representatives from Beavertail and learn tips and tricks on how to build your own blind on a Jon boat. • Effective Calling for Ducks - Learn how to get your limit from the experts at Zink. • Decoy Strategies - Experts from Avian X will teach you the correct approach for a successful hunt. • 10AM Personalize Your Own Duck Call - The first 25 kids each day will receive a free Buck Gardner call. • 10AM Youth Calling Station - Youth ages 12 and under are invited to attend this calling clinic put on by Buck Gardner representatives. • 11AM Advanced Duck-Calling Techniques - Pick up new tips for your next hunt. • 12PM Waterfowl Calling Contest - Put your calling skills to the test. Callers 12 and under. • 1PM Cabela’s Retriever Training Tools - Our Outfitters will share their favorite Cabela’s training products to get your retriever ready for the hunting season. • 1PM Waterfowl Camo: Stay Concealed - Learn the secrets to staying hidden and comfortable during waterfowl season. • 2PM Early-Season Goose Hunting - We’ll share key pointers from decoying to blind tactics. August 19-20 (Fall Great Outdoors Days) • 10AM Fly Tying with PHWFF - Project Healing Waters provides fly-fishing, fly-casting, and flytying instruction for wounded veterans. • 11AM-1PM Cabela’s BB Gun Range - Learn shooting techniques in a safe and comfortable environment. • 11AM Dove Hunting 101: Learn about dove hunting. • 12PM Intro to Fly Fishing and Casting - Learn about equipment, knot tying, and entomology. • 2PM Early-Season Archery for Whitetails - Our Outfitters will share field-tested tips that will make your hunts memorable. August 26-27 • 11AM Game-Camera Basics - Learn the features and benefits of our trail cameras, and how they can help you tag your next big trophy. • 1PM Reloading Basics - Learn from our pros what equipment you need to get started.
As the first Cabela’s in Missouri, we pulled out all the stops to bring a serious outdoor experience to the Show-Me-State. The Hazelwood Cabela’s store was built to not only surround customers with quality outdoor products, but to engage them with lifelike taxidermy, local fish swimming in the aquarium and an indoor archery test area.
5555 St. Louis Mills Blvd. Ste. #167 Hazelwood, MO 63042
(314) 225-0100
Located just off I-270, north of I-70 (Exit 22B, Hwy. 370), the impressive 130,000-sq.-ft. retail showroom is packed with outdoor equipment. Whether you’re visiting the St. Louis Arch, exploring the wilds of the Ozarks or just stocking up on gear, our experienced Outfitters are ready and waiting to help you get the most out of your next adventure.
STAY UP TO DATE ON ALL UPCOMING STORE EVENTS AT CABELAS.COM/HAZELWOOD
Member News
CFM Hires Tyler Schwartze as Events Manager
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he Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) staff continues to grow with the addition of Tyler Schwartze as Events Manager. Schwartze will be charged with further developing CFM’s highly successful Explore the Outdoors series of regional events, expanding the Pull for Conservation clay shoots and developing new events across the state. "We are striving to expand the reach and strength of CFM across Missouri, and recognize events are critical to accomplishing our goals. Each event helps us gain exposure, recruit new members and fundraise. Tyler brings extensive event management experience to our team. With Tyler at CFM as our Events Manager, I expect event growth and participation to quickly reach a level we could only imagine before adding him to the team," said Brandon Butler, CFM Executive Director. Tyler joined Missouri State Parks immediately after college in 2006, where he served as the assistant park manager at Lake of the Ozarks State Park and most recently the events coordinator for the state park system. Tyler graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a B.S. in Recreation Management. “I am truly excited and honored for the opportunity to join the Conservation Federation team. I am very passionate about the outdoors, and I love seeing the positive impact that getting people involved in the outdoors can have in their lives. I am looking forward to joining the rich heritage of CFM, and am committed to continuing the success and growth with this great organization.”
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Schwartze and his daughter Dalaney. (Photo: Courtesy of Tyler Schwartze)
Tyler, his wife Michelle, and their children, Dalaney and Colton live near Tebbetts on acreage. They enjoy camping, hunting and fishing along with spending time with their family and friends. To learn more about the Conservation Federation of Missouri, visit www.confedmo.org. Release Courtesy of CFM
Affiliate Spotlight
Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club
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he Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club was organized in Kansas City in 1956 by families who had been canoeing together on Ozark streams, and felt that some effort was needed to help preserve those streams. The canoe club combines interest in paddle sport with a conservation ethic, having been organized for the preservation of Ozark streams. The 100 plus member club publishes a monthly newsletter and yearly Ozark and Close-to-Home schedules of canoe, kayak, backpack, hiking, bicycle, and other outdoor trips. Members participate in canoeing with year-round schedules, both on Ozark streams, rivers, and activities close to the Kansas City area. There are many weekend trips including Thanksgiving, New Years, Easter, and Memorial Day. Three canoefests are held annually that last for over a week. A special clean-up trip is held on Labor Day weekend on an Ozark stream in a competitive effort within the club. The canoe trips are family-oriented with swimming, hiking, camping, and fishing.
The club actively supports conservation efforts by writing letters to legislators, resolutions, petitions, testimonies, cash contributions, and affiliation The Ozarks offer a great selection of rivers with conservation and streams. (Photo: Courtesy of Ozark organizations. Wilderness Waterways Club) Efforts also include actively monitoring water quality of Kansas City's Blue River as Missouri Stream Team #41 and the organized clean-up of an Ozark stream, an annual event since 1960. The club welcomes all who are interested in outdoor recreation, canoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking, and conservation. To learn more about Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club visit their website at https://sites.google.com/site/owwckc/Home.
Affiliate Organizations Anglers of Missouri, Inc. Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Audubon Society of Missouri Bass Slammer Tackle Big Game Hunters, Inc. Boone's Lick Chapter Missouri Master Naturalist Burroughs Audubon Society of Greater Kansas City Capital City Fly Fishers Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment Deer Creek Sportsman's Club, Inc. Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri Forest Releaf of Missouri Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Garden Club of St. Louis Gateway Chapter Trout Unlimited Greenbelt Land Trust of Mid-Missouri Greenway Network, Inc. Katy Land Trust L-A-D Foundation Lincoln University Wildlife Club Mid-Missouri Outdoor Dream Mid-Missouri Trout Unlimited Midwest Diving Council Mississippi Valley Duck Hunters Association Missouri Association of Meat Processors Missouri Atlatl Association Missouri BASS Federation Nation Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative Missouri Bow Hunters Association
Missouri Chapter of the American Fisheries Society Missouri Chapter of the Wildlife Society Missouri Chapter Soil & Water Conservation Society Missouri Coalition for the Environment Missouri Community Forestry Council Missouri Conservation Agents Association Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Consulting Foresters Association Missouri Ducks Unlimited State Council Missouri Forest Products Association Missouri Grouse Chapter of QUWF Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association Missouri Hunters for Fair Chase Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, Inc. Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation Missouri Native Seed Association Missouri Outdoor Communicators Missouri Parks & Recreation Association Missouri Parks Association Missouri Prairie Foundation Missouri River Bird Observatory Missouri Smallmouth Alliance Missouri Society of American Foresters Missouri Sport Shooting Association Missouri State Campers Association Missouri State Chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association Missouri State University Bull Shoals Field Station Missouri Taxidermist Association Missouri Trappers Association
Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association Missouri Whitetails Unlimited MU Wildlife and Fishing Science Graduate Student Organization Mule Deer Foundation North Side Division Conservation Federation Open Space Council of the Saint Louis Region Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc. Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club Perry County Sportsman Club Pomme de Terre Chapter Muskies, Inc. Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc. Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever River Bluffs Audubon Society Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association South Side Division Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers St. Louis Audubon Society Student Air Rifle Program Tipton Farmers & Sportsman's Club Tri-Lakes Fly Fishers Troutbusters of Missouri United Bow Hunters of Missouri Walnut Council & Other Fine Hardwoods Wecomo Sportsman's Club Wild Elk Institute of Missouri Windsor Lake Rod & Gun Club
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Member News
Pull for Conservation: St. Joseph
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FM held its second annual Pull for Conservation: St. Joseph on Saturday, May 20 at Geiger Shooting Range. The excellent sporting clays course drew another large crowd. Thanks to the shooters, volunteers and generous sponsors for making this event a success.
Individual Winners: A Class: 1st place - Brian Horton 2nd place - Karl Arnold 3rd place - Doug Hackett B Class 1st place - Richard York 2nd place - Steve Snapp 3rd place - Brian Heldenbrand David McDowell with NW Electric
Once, again, the title Power Cooperative presents the sponsor and co-host was traveling trophy to Kent Rupp. Missouri's Northwest (Photo: Courtesy of CFM) Electric Power Cooperatives. The continued support of the Missouri Rural Electric Coops is greatly appreciated. Over 60 individuals from across the state gathered to shoot some clays, compete for prizes and learn about CFM. Shooters participated in individual and team sporting clays events.
The winner of the Cooperative traveling trophy was Kent Rupp with NE Electric Power Cooperative. The next Pull for Conservation will be in Boonville at River Hills Sporting Clays on Saturday, July 29. Visit www.confedmo.org/pull-for-conservation-boonville for more information.
C Class: 1st place - Tim Lewis 2nd place - Chase Tyne 3rd place - Bruce Baker
Team Winners: A Class: Young Guns - Dennis Kechem & Steven Griffin Turkey Slayers - Andy Perkins & Cheyenne Verdoorn Waldinger - Mike Glidewell & John Markt B Class: NE #2 - Kent Rupp & Matthew Simmons Anderson Ford - Justin Mires & Steve Snapp Team FEC - David Diehl & Rod Cotton
C Class: Harley Davidson #2 - Parker McCreary & Jett Trimmer Arkansas Electric #2 John Chapman & David Christenson Harley Davidson #1 - Eli Trimmer & Donald Turner
Explore the Outdoors: Kansas City
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he Conservation Federation of Missouri's (CFM) 3rd annual Explore the Outdoors: Kansas City held on Saturday, April 29 turned out to be a great event. The rain kept some people from attending the event at the Kansas City Zoo, but those who braved the elements enjoyed the wonderful experience. The dinner took place in the Penguin House. Dinner took place with penguins swimming alongside the tables. Stacia Pieroni, the zoo's Conservation Manager, gave a great presentation on what the Kansas City Zoo is doing across the world to benefit wildlife. Explore the Outdoors: Kansas City brought new members to CFM, helped us raise critical funds and gave the Kansas City Zoo, one of our very important partners, an opportunity to share some of their resources and success.
Penguins swim during the Explore the Outdoors: Kansas City event. (Photo: Courtesy of CFM)
Special thanks to our sponsors: Bender, Inc., Blue Ridge Bank and Trust, Jeff & Kim Blystone, NutraMax, Trophy Property and Auction, Jordan Van Zandt, and David & Judy Young. Thank you to all the volunteers and to all that attended. It was a great event across the board. JULY - 2017
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Explore the
Outdoors: COLUMBIA
Save the date for our Columbia Regional Event.
August 12, 2017 Logboat Brewing Company Join CFM at Logboat for live music, games, raffles, and ice cold beer.
For information on sponsorship opportunities and to register, visit
www.confedmo.org/columbia/
JULY - 2017
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Member News
Richard Ash, Jr. Awarded Prestigious Pugsley Medal
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ichard Ash, Jr., retired long-time director of the St. Charles, MO Department of Parks and Recreation, was awarded a 2016 Honorable Cornelius Amory Pugsley Medal, the most prestigious award recognizing outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of public parks and conservation in the US. Currently a Nixa resident, Ash retired from St. Charles in 2005. Previously he worked for The James Foundation in St. James, MO (1968-79); and he received his B.S. from the University of Missouri at Rolla. Throughout his career, Ash was a catalyst for local, regional and statewide initiatives. Two in particular stand out. The St. Louis 2004 initiative began in 1996 to develop a metropolitan renaissance to coincide with the approaching Lewis and Clark anniversary. One of its legacy accomplishments was to be the Great Rivers Greenway District (GRGD). The Dardenne Creek Watershed initiative is a second important impact. Given an undesired push by the Great Flood of 1993, the opportunity to achieve a coordinated, collaborative watershed policy framework was conceived. Richard's successful mantra was “…unless you live at the top of the watershed, everyone is downstream!” After retirement, this lifelong outdoor recreation advocate and nature enthusiast entered a new level of commitment to the Conservation Federation of Missouri, having been a member since 1974. He became a leader of the organization and is credited with numerous successes, including helping to keep the CFM financially stable and successfully managing a wide range of initiatives to benefit the natural resources in Missouri and the region. As a Pugsley Medal winner, Ash is in good company. Previous winners include Stephen Mather, the founder of the National Park Service; former Secretary of the Interior Stuart Udall; Noted Conservationist Lady Bird Johnson; and Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics.
Richard Ash. (Photo: Courtesy of Richard Ash)
The Pugsley Award is presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Park Foundation (nationalparks.org) and the Davey Tree Expert Company (davey.com). “Our hope is that the recognition gained by the Pugsley Award program will encourage and inspire others to invest in programs that educate and promote a sustainable environment,” said Sandra Reid, manager of Corporate Communications/Marketing at Davey Tree. A more complete biography of Richard Ash, Jr. and more information on the Pugsley Award, its history and complete list of winners are available on the Academy’s website at www.aapra.org/pugsley-award. Release Courtesy of American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration
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Outdoor News
Missouri Start-up Teen Fishing Programs Crossing State Lines
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n Teen Anglers first year, 2015, the Missouri-based scholarship fishing trail involved about 15 schools and averaged 30 teams per event. Today, 2017, the youth-focused organization is drawing nearly 300 teams representing more than 100 schools from multiple states, with plans for more and even faster growth in the next two years by taking the program to a national level. Teen Anglers officials are quick to point out that although competitive fishing is the basis for participation, it’s the nonprofit organization’s intent to be a scholarship program rather than a bass tournament circuit.
Teen anglers and their guides head out for a day of fishing. (Photo: Courtesy of Teen Anglers)
“We’re so different than other teenage-focused fishing groups because first and foremost we make participation easy whether school sanctioned or not, and secondarily for the fact that our purpose is to award scholarships to students to help them enter academic or trade schools after high school graduation,” explained J.P. Sell, Teen Anglers president and one of its original founders.
“From day one of re-launching the Lew’s brand in 2009, this company has been committed to youth and their importance to the future of fishing,” explained Lew’s CEO Lynn Reeves. “One of the very first programs we implemented was a discount purchase opportunity for organized high school and college fishing teams and it’s been in place ever since.
Just as team participation has grown annually, so have the sponsorships. So far this year there are 60 scholarships totaling $50,000 committed. All scholarship dollars are protected. Sponsorship amounts range from $250 to $1,500, and aren’t always tied to high finishes in tournaments.
Lew’s patterned the Mach high school initiative after its successful American Hero program that benefits military veterans with rod and reel donations to veterans-support groups. In both cases, a portion of the profits from the sale of Lew’s American Hero and Mach products are committed to product donations for such purposes.
“Some scholarships are awarded to participants according to criteria other than tournament success, and I think that’s pretty cool, too. Fishing doesn’t discriminate. All can enjoy the activity, so it’s important to our board we distribute the scholarship opportunities so that all can benefit as well,” Sell added.
In less than four months, Lew’s has already donated more than 400 Mach rod and reel combos to 50-plus high school fishing teams. And, as is the case for Teen Anglers participation, the Mach high school program is available to organized high school groups beyond the schoolsanctioned teams.
Supporting youth is nothing new to Lew’s, as the company has provided products and programs for the younger audiences for the past several years. Most recently, Lew’s has launched a series of tournamentquality but value priced rods and reels under its Mach brand that have been particularly appealing to today’s new generation of competitive anglers.
For more information on Teen Anglers, visit www.TeenAnglers.net. For more information on the Lew’s Mach High School Product Grant Initiative, visit www.lews.com/machprogram.php Release Courtesy of Lew's
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Feature Story
The Jig is Up
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opularized by resort owner Phil Lilley’s “One Cast,” marabou jigs have become the go-to lure to haul in limits of trout on Lake Taneycomo. The size and color varies, but the effectiveness does not. Many of the local guides have been utilizing the technique for years.
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“It’s my favorite way to fish this lake,” said Kris Nelson of Tandem Fly Outfitters. “They consistently catch fish, and they’re usually bigger in size.” Nelson likes using jigs from 1/16 to 1/8 ounce in any sculpin color with an orange head. “The orange head gets more strikes for my customers,” Nelson explained.
Feature Story Catching trout on jigs requires some skill. “I usually only have my customers throw bigger jigs if they’re experienced fishermen,” explained good friend and local guide Captain Steve Dickey of Anglers Advantage Outfitters. “Detecting a bite and getting a good hook set is difficult.” Instead of throwing bigger jigs, Dickey likes to set his clients up with a 1/100 oz jig or Berkley Powerworm under a carrot float rig. He finds it’s a lot easier for his clients to see the bite and catch the fish. But if you can fish a jig, Steve can put you on fish, and lots of them. On a recent trip for the Conservation Federation of Missouri’s 3rd annual media event at Lilley’s Landing Resort and Marina, Dickey, my cousin John Neporadny, and myself brought in 35 fish in just under 2 hours fishing 1/8 oz jigs. “Jigs are a great way to catch fish on this lake,” Dickey claimed.
Where to Go Catching fish on marabou jigs is not restricted to any part of Lake Taneycomo. I have caught fish from the cable near Table Rock Dam all the way down to Rockaway Beach. Fishing around islands, in eddies, or near any creek mouth are my favorites. If you know how and where to find them, deep holes near flats around Fall Creek hold a lot of fish susceptible to jigs. The beauty of jigs is they can be fished on the bottom or in the water column, making them fishable from Table Rock Dam to Powersite Dam.
Techniques Like most of the fishing on Taneycomo, jig fishing conditions are determined by water generation from Table Rock Dam. When water is running, jig fishing is perfect. Choosing the size of the jig is dependent on the water generation as well. With 2 or more units running, throwing a 1/8 oz is imperative from Monkey Island on up. With 0-2 units running, a lighter jig is necessary in order to get bit. When the jig is too heavy, it falls unnaturally and too fast. My favorite way to fish them is to throw my jig upstream into slower water and let it sink a little bit, depending on depth. Lowering and raising the rod tip, I work it back to the boat, varying my retrieve from short and fast to slow and methodical.
You have to take the temperature of the trout to discover what they like. Nearly 99% of the time the trout take the jig on the fall. The fish will be on the line when you pull up. As soon as you feel the fish, set the hook; they spit it out quickly.
Favorite Patterns Generally, throwing a 1/8th ounce jig is the best way to go when any water is being generated. Sculpin, Olive, Black, Ginger, and any combination of sculpin work year round for me. When there is a shad kill on Table Rock Lake and shad come through the dam, white or white/ gray cannot be beat. Match the hatch—you hear fly fishermen utter this phrase all the time. It’s no different when jig fishing. Find the color and size they want and you’ll be successful on Lake Taneycomo.
Where to Get Them The best jigs I’ve used have come from the fly shop at Lilley’s Landing Resort and Marina on upper Lake Taneycomo. They catch the most fish, simple as that. Phil Lilley, owner since the 1970s, explained to me at dinner recently why. “The heads are flattened and they fall lopsided, which triggers more strikes than a straight falling jig,” Lilley said. Stop in the shop via the water or pavement and ask questions—the employees are extremely helpful and will help you pick out what you need to catch your limit.
The Jig is Up It’s no secret anymore—the jig is up. Marabou jigs are deadly on Lake Taneycomo for catching numerous brown and rainbow trout. Stickbaits, spoons, Lil’ Jakes, and Trout Magnets can and will catch fish, but if you want to consistently catch fish in any conditions pick up some marabou jigs before your next trip to Lake Taneycomo. For more information or to schedule a fishing trip, contact Steve Dickey (www.anglersadvnatage.net), Kris Nelson (www.tandemflyoutfitters.net), or Lilleys’ Landing Resort and Marina (www.lilleyslanding.com). Ryan Miloshewski John Neporadny, Jr. shows off his catch, caught fishing with Lake Taneycomo guide Steve Dickey. (Photo: Ryan Miloshewski)
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
6/5/17 11:53 AM
Outdoor News
Prepare Your Riding Lawn Mower For Every Season Missouri Offers
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id you know that a lawn mower is built to do much more than cut grass? There are attachments that are perfect for every season and if you are in Missouri you know that we experience all four seasons to the fullest. Let's take a look at just a few here to get you set…
Carts Are great to haul a variety of materials. Whether you are thinking poly or steel John Deere has you covered. Poly carts range in size from 7 cu. ft. to 17 cu. ft. Steel carts range in size from 13 cu. ft. to 21 cu. ft.
Yard Care From lawn rollers to thatchers to aerators your yard will be refurbished in no time. • Lawn Rollers pack down new sod, seed, and mole ridges. The polyethylene drum will not dent or rust and the rounded ends will prevent gouging and ruts. Available in 24”x48” or 36”x18”. • When front Thatchers are used on a regular basis will reduce excessive thatch buildup that can be damaging to a lawn’s health. Front thatchers are available in 38”. • The 40” Spike Aerator penetrates the soil allowing air, water, and nutrients to enter the lawn relieving soil compaction. The 40” Plug Aerator removes plugs of soil up to 3-in. deep to allow penetration of air, water, and nutrients and help relieve soil compaction.
Lawn mower attachments will make yard work easy with summer in full swing. Visit www.sydenstrickers.com to see other potential attachments for your lawn mower. (Photo: Courtesy of Sydenstrickers)
Pattern Mowing Are you looking to have the best looking lawn on the block? Maybe a Lawn Striping Kit is just what you are looking for to get your lawn looking just the way you like it! Sydenstrickers is a Silver Business Alliance member. As a Business Alliance member they support CFM's conservation efforts around the state. With 11 locations in Missouri, Sydenstrickers is “Your Partner in Growing a Better Tomorrow.” Visit: www. sydenstrickers.com for more information. Release Courtesy of Sydenstrickers
• Needing to spread seed, fertilizer, insecticide, or salt? You need a pull-type Spin Spreader made of polyethylene which will not dent or rust with stainless steel critical components.
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Agency News
MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
Get info and share opinions at MDC 80th Anniversary Open Houses
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his year the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is celebrating 80 years of serving nature and you. MDC was founded by Missourians -- concerned by the state’s decimated fish, forests, and wildlife -through a constitutional amendment passed in 1936 to create the nation’s first apolitical conservation agency in 1937. Keeping with its tradition of citizen-based conservation, MDC will hold open houses around the state in August through October to share information and gather public feedback. Director Sara Parker Pauley and Conservation Commissioners will be there to share insights on the Department’s history, conservation priorities, and challenges on the horizon. Attendees will also be able to give direct feedback on Department regulations, infrastructure, strategic priorities, and statewide and local conservation issues. No registration is required. For more information, contact MDC Public Involvement Coordinator Michele Baumer at 573-522-4115, ext. 3350, or Michele.Baumer@mdc.mo.gov.
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Join MDC from 6 – 8 p.m. at the following open houses: • Aug. 8 at the MDC Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, 2289 County Park Drive in Cape Girardeau • Aug. 10 at the MDC Runge Conservation Nature Center, 330 Commerce Drive in Jefferson City • Aug. 14 at the MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore in Kirksville • Sept. 7 at the MDC Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, 11715 Cragwold Road in Kirkwood • Sept. 26 at Kemper Recital Hall in Spratt Hall 101 on the Missouri Western State University campus where the MDC Northwest Regional Office is located, 4525 Downs Drive in St. Joseph • Oct. 10 at the MDC Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 4601 S. Nature Center Way in Springfield • Oct. 12 at the MDC Twin Pines Conservation Education Center, 20086 Highway 60 in Winona • Oct. 26 at the MDC Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave in Kansas City
Agency News
Watch Solar Eclipse in Nature at MDC Conservation Areas
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iscover some unique activities in nature during the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21 by watching the rare event at one of 54 Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) areas that lie in the solar eclipse’s primary path across Missouri. During the eclipse, visitors at these conservation areas can enjoy regular outdoor activities -- such as fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching – in a far-from-regular way for a few minutes when the moon passes in front of the sun. The eclipse will also bring a rare chance for those watching wildlife to catch out-of-the-ordinary behaviors. “Day light is a cue for birds throughout their day to wake up in the morning and return to roost at night,” said MDC State Ornithologist Sarah Kendrick. “As the sky becomes darker during the eclipse, some birds may become confused by the lack of light and could exhibit odd behaviors such as going quiet, thinking that night is falling.” Many of the featured MDC areas also offer an escape from crowded cities and light pollution, and all of the recommended areas have restrooms for visitor convenience. While all areas are free to access and open to the public, some may require visitors to obtain a special-use permit for group camping. For many Missourians, this total solar eclipse will be a once-in-a-lifetime event. The last total eclipse visible in the Show-Me State occurred in 1869. The next total solar eclipse will only be visible in parts of southern Missouri and will occur in April 2024. According to NASA, during a total eclipse, the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking its light and allowing viewers to see the sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona. The moon casts a shadow, called an umbra, onto the earth. Communities in the path of totality will experience a few minutes of temperature drop and dimmed sunlight similar to twilight as the umbra passes over them.
For a map of the eclipse’s path across Missouri, approximate times to watch, a full list of recommended conservation areas for viewing, and details on each area, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/eclipse. A printable map is available at the bottom of the webpage. (Photo: MDC)
Communities will experience totality at different times as the moon moves across the sky, but the first Missourians to see it will be those in St. Joseph around 1:04 p.m. The umbra will then cross central Missouri before totality occurs near Cape Girardeau around 1:20 p.m. For an interactive map of the eclipse’s path across Missouri, approximate times to watch, a full list of recommended conservation areas for viewing, and details on each area, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/ eclipse. A printable map is also available at the bottom of the webpage. Release Courtesy of MDC
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HIKED IT ... LIKED IT! Hiking is a great way to get out and discover nature. CHECK OUT HIKING OPPORTUNITIES AT THESE CONSERVATION AREAS: Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area, Christian county – 18 miles of hiking trails Bethany Falls Trail at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, Jackson county – 1.33 mile hiking trail Engelmann Woods Natural Area, Franklin county – 1.5 mile hiking trail Millstream Gardens Conservation Area, Madison county – 2 miles of hiking trails Peck Ranch Conservation Area, Shannon county – 2.5 mile section of the Ozark Trail Runge Conservation Nature Center, Cole county – 2.4 miles of hiking trails Big Creek Conservation Area, Adair county – 0.7 mile hiking trail
For more information visit mdc.mo.gov CFM Hiking Ad_7.25x4.375.indd 1
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
4/6/17 7:41 AM
Outdoor News
NWF Launches Artemis Sportswomen’s Group
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he National Wildlife Federation (NWF) officially launched Artemis, a conservation coalition of America’s sportswomen. Founded by women from six Western states to defend public lands and waters, iconic wildlife species, and to develop female leaders in wildlife and conservation fields, Artemis believes with the immense privilege of being able to hunt and fish our amazing public lands and waters comes the obligation to protect and serve these wild places. In Greek mythology, Artemis is the goddess of the hunt and wildlife, a fitting symbol for a group whose mission is: To protect sporting traditions, support women as leaders in the conservation movement, and foster the next generations of conservationists to ensure the vitality of our outdoor heritage. “We know so many sportswomen who are dedicated public lands hunters and anglers who have felt like hunting and fishing is really a good ol’ boys club,” said Jessi Johnson, Artemis’ sportswomen’s coordinator. “While we certainly stand in solidarity with the entire sporting community we know it’s due time to bring new voices to the forefront and to add strength to the conservation community in a time of unprecedented threats to our sporting heritage. Artemis is about creating conservation gains using the vast talents of our sportswomen’s community to build an inclusive and diverse roster of advocates that can boldly respond to the attacks on public lands and build new leaders who will continue to fight for our traditions well into the future,” Johnson continued. The group chose its focus areas because of the ongoing and deepening threats to public lands and wildlife, and the need to build and highlight women’s leadership in the wildlife and conservation fields. Women currently make up more than 25 percent of anglers and roughly 20 percent of all hunters, yet few women lead sporting conservation campaigns and wildlife conservation organizations. “More women are hunting, fishing, and shooting than ever before, representing the fastest growing segment of the sporting community,” said Collin O’Mara, president and chief executive officer of NWF. Artemis, a sportswomen’s coalition, was launched to bring a powerful and underrepresented voice to the forefront of conservation efforts. (Photo: Courtesy of Artemis)
“We absolutely need more women in leadership roles across the NWF family and the broader conservation community—and Artemis will play an important role in making this vision a reality. As the husband and father to strong women who love to fish, I fully support the tireless work of the pioneering founders of Artemis and am extremely excited about what lies ahead,” O'Mara continued. “We believe in a ‘complete sportswoman’ concept, a concept where, yes we hunt and fish, but we also have relationships with decision makers, we build leaders, advocate for wildlife, and teach others to do the same,” said Maggie Heumann, an outdoor retailer and Artemis cofounder. “Without this level of engagement, we don’t see a future that looks good for our sporting traditions.” Artemis will conduct several service projects and public outreach events in its first year throughout the West with a focus on improving wildlife habitat and building a network of sportswomen. The group plans to host a sportswomen’s summit in spring of 2018. The goal will be to bring sportswomen, conservationists and well-known female leaders together for leadership workshops, conservation training, and sporting activities all to build upon Artemis’ work and expand its reach. Visit the website at www.artemis.nwf.org and Facebook page at www.facebook.comArtemisSportswomen. Visit the NWF Media Center at www.NWF.org/News. For more information, contact Jessi Johnson, Artemis Coordinator, jessijohnson@wyomingwildlife.org, (530) 598-0583. NWF is America's largest conservation organization uniting all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in a rapidlychanging world. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Release Courtesy of NWF JULY - 2017
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Oudoor News
All Efforts Great and Small
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ecently, the kindergarten students at Beulah Ralph Elementary School in Columbia reminded me that no matter how big or how small we may be, we can all make a difference for conservation. In the case of these 5- and 6-year-olds, that difference is directly helping monarch butterflies right here in the Show-Me State. Throughout the school year, these students conducted a service-learning project, which they called “Pennies for Pollinators.” They learned about monarchs and the incredible journey that generations of this migratory insect make annually from the oyamel fir forests of Mexico where they overwinter to the northern reaches of their breeding range in southern Canada. They learned this magical creature weighs no more than a standard paper clip, yet it is capable of traveling thousands of miles to a place it has never been, a place only its greatgreat grandparents had visited. They learned how the monarch is reliant on milkweed, as this is the only plant on which the female will lay her eggs and the hungry caterpillars will feed. They learned that more milkweed is needed to support a sustainable monarch population, and they took action. They raised up milkweed seedlings to plant themselves. Along the way, the youngsters heard from special guests, including Missouri Department of Conservation photographer Noppadol Paothong, who inspired them to do more for monarchs. They made butterfly feeders, which they sold to family and friends, and by the end of the school year, these intrepid kids raised more than $1,000. As the school year came to a close, they proudly presented a check to MDC and Missourians for Monarchs to support monarch conservation efforts. Now for a moment, imagine this wasn’t just one class of kindergartners in Columbia but every class of kindergarteners across the state. How far could we move the needle for conservation? How many more monarchs and regal fritillaries, native bees and other pollinators, grassland songbirds and gamebirds could we support on the landscape?
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Monarch butterfly on a coneflower. (Photo: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service)
The students at Beulah Ralph Elementary did more than raise money, however. Beyond the pennies they put aside for pollinators, they raised their own awareness and appreciation for the world around them. And most importantly, they learned that even as kindergarteners, they can make a difference — what a priceless, lifelong lesson. On June 22, Missourians for Monarchs invites the public to be equally inspired by the magic of the monarch butterfly during National Pollinator Week. The collaborative has teamed up with Runge Conservation Nature Center in Jefferson City to host Monarch Mania, which will run from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. This free event will feature displays, booths, demonstrations, games and activities that will educate, entertain and inspire all ages. To learn more, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ MissouriansForMonarchs/. Jason Jenkins Missourians for Monarchs Coordinator
Outdoor News
Missouri Soybean Association - Innovative Agriculture
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hree hundred acres of mixed hardwoods, cedars, and crop ground with winter cover crops, with abundant wildlife, including deer, duck, geese and dove, located in central Boone County. Property includes a three-acre lake, utilities and blacktop frontage. That sounds like a real estate ad for an outdoor lovers’ paradise, doesn’t it? The description is of Missouri soybean farmers’ Bay Farm Research Facility, southeast of Columbia. The working farm is home to soybean farmers’ research efforts into soybean breeding, as well as sustainability, including water quality and soil health. “Innovation is the cornerstone of our vision for the future,” said Gary Wheeler, CEO/executive director for the Missouri Soybean Association and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council. “Sustainability is integral in modern agriculture, and we are focused on showing exactly how landowners can blend their land management and crop goals, and their passions for the outdoors seamlessly into the business of the farm.” The Bay Farm Research Facility puts that vision to work. In 2012, the Missouri Soybean Association opened the facility to University of Missouri researchers, offering laboratory and office space in addition to the crop land. Over the years since, the Association expanded its partnerships to reflect its emphasis on sustainability. Today, work with the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Department of Natural Resources and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service sets the Bay Farm Research Facility’s crop ground as an example of best practices. “Throughout the year, we not only conduct soybean breeding trials and study soybean genetics, we show how farmers and landowners can bring research, production and sustainability together to meet their goals,” said Greg Luce, the facility’s superintendent. “From cover crops and soil health, to irrigation, to pest and weed control, we’re working to show growers the options and opportunities so they can make the best decisions for their land and water resources.”
An aerial shot of Bradford Farm Research Facility. (Photo: Missouri Soybean Association)
Partnerships with non-profit groups focused on conservation, sustainability and natural resources are key in the farm’s strategic plan, as well. “Implementing research results on the farm is fundamental to modern agriculture,” said Luce, who also serves as Missouri Soybeans’ director of research. “Most landowners rely on a team of partners to implement their vision, and we believe in the strength and importance of partnerships to the long term health of the Bay Farm Research Facility.” Soil health takes center stage on the farm, with cover crops and reduced tillage practices in place across the property. Visitors see the best management practices, as well as learn about the impact on crop yields, water quality and wildlife populations. For landowners looking to attract wildlife, the farm includes demonstration plots of sunflowers, as recommended by the Missouri Department of Conservation. The plots attract dove, quail and other bird species adjacent to the property’s three-acre lake, tree lines and other cover. “It’s really a special place,” Luce said. “Missouri’s soybean farmers have an incredible resource in the farm and are committed to using it to support continuous improvement in everything we do. It’s something to see.” The facility is open for tours year-round for individuals and groups. Contact farm superintendent Greg Luce at gluce@mosoy.org and (573) 635-3819. Christine Tew Missouri Soybean Association JULY - 2017
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Feature Story
Missouriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Native Bees: Important Pollinators
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oney bees have frequently been in the headlines for population decline due to colony collapse disorder. Many initiatives to increase nectar plants are focused around the honey bee. The honey bee was named the Missouri state insect in 1985 and has, for hundreds of years, eclipsed the wonderful attributes of thousands of native bee species in the US. The honey bee is not native to North America. It was brought over by early European immigrants around 400 years ago. Missouri has over 450 species of native bees that break out into six families. Native bees are hardworking bees and adapted to the native plants and climate of our area. Native bees can fly when it's much colder than would be suitable for honey bees. Bumble bees have been known to fly at temperatures as low as 37 degrees F. Not only do bumble bees have a fuzzy coat to keep them warm, but they also have the ability to shiver and generate their own warmth.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Scientific study has shown they can fly at elevations equivalent to 500 ft above Mt. Everest, an altitude even helicopters cannot often reach. What is perhaps most important about bumble bees is they can pollinate plants that require strong, vibrating motion. These plants include blue wild indigos (Baptisia australis), a spectacular native plant that blooms on prairies and glades in the spring. It also takes the power of a bumble bee to pollinate tomato plants. Other families of native bees have also adapted, over thousands of years, to be efficient pollinators in areas that may require special techniques for pollination. For example a single southeastern blueberry bee can visit 50,000 flowers during its short lifetime and be responsible for the production of 6,000 blueberries. Squash bees fly very early in the morning, even before daylight, to get to the squash flowers when they first open. It is thought they use their sense of smell to find the flowers.
Feature Story Unfortunately, native bees are also in decline. In December of 2015, researchers from the University of Vermont published findings that show a 23% decline in wild bee populations, between 2008 and 2013, across the United States. What's even more concerning is the researchers paired the populations of wild bees with crop pollination needs by county across the US. That data showed 39% of US croplands, 139 counties, are in areas where the demand for pollination may exceed the pollination services available, impacting many crops including apples, pumpkins and blueberries. Everyone can help increase our native bee populations. In 2012 a new native wildflower planting at the University of Missouri-Bradford Research and Extension Center just outside Columbia, MO was visited by just one native bumble bee species. By 2014, six species of native bees were visiting the planting, and in 2015 two bumble bee nests were found in the planting. Bees exhibit flower consistency, meaning they visit the same species of flowers on a pollen-foraging trip, which makes sure a plant species is pollinated by pollen from flowers of its species. By planting native plants on your property, with several plants of the same species close together, you are helping bees minimize energy used to fly from flower to flower to collect pollen. Additionally many species of native bees nest in the ground or in hollow spaces in stems or wood. Leaving bare ground that is not covered with mulch and keeping hollow stems up throughout the winter allow bees to nest and bring new generations to your yard. Old wood piles or holes drilled in old logs also provide bees with nesting habitat. For more information on which plants are best for native bees and where to buy them visit Grow Native! www.grownative.org.
Mary Nemecek Conservation Chair of Burroughs Audubon A black and yellow bumble bee on wild blue indigo. (Photo:Ed Spevak)
HONEYBEE The honeybee is the major pollinator of many field crops and almost all tree fruits. It is the world's most beneficial insect and in 1985 was named the official state insect of Missouri.
DESCRIPTION To distinguish honeybees from other types of bees in our state, note the following: Workers carry pollen in pouches on their legs, and they have hair on their head and eyes. Their stingers are barbed and can only be used once; when the bee flies away, part of her abdomen tears out and remains attached to the stinger, and she dies within minutes.
HABITAT Honeybees are usually seen as they forage in flowers for pollen and nectar. Nests are usually located in tree cavities or in beekeepers' boxes, not in the ground. The nest comb is suspended vertically and consists of parallel double-layered sheets of hexagonal cells. These are made from wax secreted by worker bees. A nest may be active for many years.
STATUS Many, many crops require pollination by honeybees (to say nothing of honey production). It's not completely understood, but since the 1970s, bee populations in Europe and North America have been declining rapidly. Called Colony Collapse Disorder, this complicated syndrome seems to involve mites, viruses, pesticides and other factors. This is especially worrisome, as more than $15 billion of US crops are completely dependent on honeybee pollination. Stopping this syndrome is extremely important.
HUMAN Humans rely on bees (directly or CONNECTIONS indirectly) for about a third of our food
supply. Pollination by honeybees is crucial or beneficial for a great many crops. Alfalfa needs honeybees, and livestock, including dairy cattle, need alfalfa. Simply put, plants need pollinators, and animals need plants.
For more information visit mdc.mo.gov
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Road trip. We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t choose the perfect playlist. Or program the GPS. But we did fuel the car that made you realize there are no wrong turns, only new adventures. When the energy you invest in life meets the energy we fuel it with, amazing journeys happen.
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Feature Story
Floating the Upper Jacks Fork River On the upper Jacks Fork River wilderness reigns there are no road overpasses, hordes of humans nor drone of jetboat engines. A few strokes of the paddle and my floating partner, Ron Kruger and I, are swept into the speedy current and into a wild, watery world which few people ever experience.
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he Jacks Fork is a tributary of the much larger Current River. Combined these two rivers form the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first designated national park for a wild river stream system and the longest protected, free-flowing waterways in the nation. I have lived in the Ozarks for over 40 years and have floated lower sections of the Jacks Fork, which are spectacular. The upper reaches of the river have evaded me for decades. Floatable usually only in early spring, the upper portions of the river lack enough water to float a canoe the rest of the year.
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The working life, obligations and bad timing had kept me from exploring this most wild and scenic portion of any of our Ozark rivers, until recently. We silently pushed our kayaks into the current and were immediately swept into a world of natural wonderment. Gin clear water allowed a magical view of every rock and living thing on the bottom of the river, which lay three feet below, yet appeared to be at the surface. Towering, multi-colored bluffs and emerald green, deep pools greeted us at every turn.
Feature Story I soon understood why the Jacks Fork is called the Mozart of Ozark streams. It truly is a step above the rest, an amazing wild collection of water, geologic features and plant and animal life. Engulfed in the beauty that surrounded me, I felt like I had been ushered into my idea of heaven on earth. Less than two miles downstream we entered the Jacks Fork Natural Area, which is accessible only by canoe. The river flows three miles though this designated natural area, known for its extensive and unique biodiversity, which includes over 450 native plant species. We round a curve and flow with the current, now to the south. According to maps, near the south end of the west-facing slope is the little-known Jacks Fork Natural Arch. It is a few hundred feet up a steep, forested hillside hidden from summertime floaters. Most float on by oblivious to its existence. Rare plants, relics of our last Ice Age, some 12,000 years ago, cling to life here among the cooler northfacing slopes. Glacial relics like the harebell and false bugbane still exist, tucked into their micro-habitats. Kruger photographed the bugbane, to add to his collection of over 500 wildflowers. Every stretch of the upper Jacks Fork is magnificent beyond words. One could spend a lifetime here absorbing the elixir of the wild and scenic that soothes our souls like nothing else. If only the hurting of the world could experience, the peace, the tranquility, the transcendence of the spirit above body and mind. All exposed to the wonder would leave renewed and inspired. The Jacks Fork continues to reveal itself to us as we drift downstream. A mere three miles from Blue Spring we round the bend and are struck by the magnificent opening of Jam Up Cave. A cathedralsized archway, an enormous 80x100 feet leaves us spellbound. My imagination runs wild. How many eons did the power of water droplets take to shape this amazing creation? How long is the passage? What lives there? One of the most spectacular cave entrances in the state, Jam Up Cave holds many mysteries. I understand that it is gated far back in the cave to protect breeding bats.
Old writings indicate that the cave may be explored in daylight hours back to a lake which is the plungebasin for falls from the upper section. The upper section may be entered from a sinkhole in Lost Hollow. The Jacks Fork is home to an amazing variety of aquatic life including 67 species of fish, such as smallmouth bass, suckers, long-ear sunfish, goggleeye, largemouth bass, gar and chain pickerel. Forty of the species are native and six are found nowhere outside the Ozarks: Ozark shiners, Ozark madtoms, checkered madtoms, Current River saddled darters, Ozark chubs and Ozark sculpins. Although Kruger and I love every spectacular aspect of the Jacks Fork, we had smallmouth bass on our minds, too. This section of the river is a designated smallmouth management area by the Missouri Department of Conservation. During the open season on stream bass, from Memorial Day until the end of February, only one smallmouth of 18-inches or better may be kept per day. However, I highly encourage anglers to release these rare fish. An 18-inch smallmouth may be a dozen years old. Few live long enough to reach those proportions. Weather front and dropping water foiled our smallmouth fishing plans, but the prolific long-ear sunfish, or pumpkinseed, kept our flyrods bouncing. All to soon, we reached our take-out at Rhymers Access. We had experienced an incredible day afloat on the Jacks Fork without seeing another human being. Need a place to stay? Check with Shady Lane Cabins and Motel. Owner Jim Anderson is a wealth of information, including tips about locating wild horse herds and elk viewing beginning in September. www.shadylanecabins.com. How about a canoe? Harveyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alley Spring Canoe Rental is tops. www. harveysalleyspring.com. Bill Cooper The upper Jacks Fork is home to some of the wildest, most scenic areas in Missouri. (Photo: Bill Cooper)
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Conservation Support at the Kansas City Zoo CONSERVATION BREEDING SPECIALIST GROUP
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WORLDWIDE CONSERVATION EFFORTS Just over a year ago, the Kansas City Zoo embarked on a new journey. Though the Zoo had several conservation programs that it supported in the past, we began a much bigger program in late 2015. Each patron that visits the Zoo can now say that they are contributing to important conservation programs with each visit or membership! The following is a list of growing programs that the Zoo currently supports: A Humboldt Penguin Consortium Punta San Juan, Peru
J Monarch Conservation Kansas City
B Wyoming Toad Conservation Laramie, WY
K Cell Phones for Orangutans Kansas City
C Brown Hyena Conservation Namibia, Africa
L Orangutan Conservation Malaysia, Borneo & Sumatra
D AZAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s APE TAG Conservation Initiative Kentucky, Congo & Tanzania
M Spotted Skunk Conservation Kansas City
E Tiger Conservation Minnesota, Russia, Indonesia & Malay Peninsula F Bolivian Frog Conservation Bolivia, South America G Chytrid Monitoring Study Kansas City H Freshwater Mussel Conservation Kansas City
N Elephant Conservation New York, Central African Republic, Tanzania & Mozambique O Parrots International Kansas City P Rhino Conservation Kansas City Q Panamanian Golden Frog Breeding Center Kansas City
I Polar Bear Conservation Montana & Canada
OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
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Outdoor News
Don Robinson State Park Dedicated on June 2
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on Robinson State Park, a quiet retreat from the bustling city, was dedicated on Friday, June 2. Missouri State Parks held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. in the day-use area of the park, which is located southeast of Pacific in northwest Jefferson County. The new state park is the result of the generosity of Don Robinson, who spent his lifetime acquiring the rugged and wooded countryside in Jefferson County. It was his wish that after his death, his personal sanctuary would become part of the Missouri state park system. During the dedication, the keynote speaker was Carol S. Comer, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Other speakers included Michael Magliari and Frank Curotto from Don Robinson’s estate, and John Riddick from the Missouri State Parks Foundation. Following the ceremony, park staff led a 1.2-mile hike on the paved section of the park’s Sandstone Canyon Trail, one of two trails that showcase the park’s natural features. Today, the park is considered among Missouri’s best places to conserve native wildlife and habitat.
The land is in the upper watershed of the LaBarque Creek, a high quality stream that supports 42 species of fish. The park includes a network of sandstone cliffs and box canyons, outcrops, shelter caves, glades and forests as well as many animals, songbirds and approximately 650 species of plants. During the dedication, Big O Tires provided free hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and drinks for visitors at the park. In addition to the trails, the park features a peaceful day-use area with individual picnic tables and a picnic shelter. The park also includes the home where Robinson lived and welcomed frequent visitors to his wooded retreat. Missouri State Parks is celebrating 100 years in 2017. Visitors can experience all the park system has to offer with the Centennial Passport. Visit mostateparks.com/passport for more information. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Release Courtesy of MissouriState Parks
Don Robinson poses on his 843 acres of heavily wooded land near Cedar Hill on October 21, 2008. After his passing, Robinson donated his land for a future state park. (Photo: Jeff Roberson of the Associated Press)
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Feature Story
State Parks Encourage Pollinator Populations
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hip Taylor demonstrated the delicate technique of catching, and holding, a butterfly. With net in hand, he ventured off Blazing Star Trail at Cuivre River State Park into the tallgrass prairie. He was stalking a spicebush swallowtail, which was flitting among the flowers and grasses. “The way to catch a butterfly is to move very, very slowly,” said Taylor, who has caught thousands as founder of Monarch Watch. The group distributes tags for volunteers to attach to a migrating monarch’s wing and monitor the plight of that charismatic orange-andblack species. “The reason you go slow is insects have compound eyes, if they see movement, it will trigger a response,” Taylor said. “You come up behind it and below it, slowly, with your net and you can get within six inches – they’re busy with the flower.”
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With a quick sweep of the net, Taylor had his target. He gently removed the butterfly by grasping its body and folding back its wings. His audience of 20 or so moved in to get a closer look. The inspection revealed a black body with shiny blue-green wings. It was blue between two rows of orange spots on the underside of the hind wings and the upper side had one row of white spots. If it had been a monarch, Taylor would have attached a white tag printed with data in its wing. Instead, he raised his hand and released the swallowtail, which headed out, unharmed, in search of another flower. Taylor, who founded Monarch Watch in 1992 while a biologist at the University of Kansas, was at Cuivre River State Park as the keynote speaker at the Association of Missouri Interpreters conference. Monarch Watch is in its 25th year of tagging monarchs on their migration route through the Midwest to Mexico.
Feature Story Missouri State Parks sponsored the conference, and is promoting surveys at other parks, because of the crisis that is impacting pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, across North America. The monarch is the poster butterfly of the crisis because of the drastic fluctuation in the population that arrives at its wintering ground in Mexico. While habitat loss is blamed for much of the decrease in butterflies and moths, parasites and pesticides are believed to be the main culprits in the decline of bees and bumblebees. Pollinators are important because they transfer pollen between flowers to cause fertilization that leads to seed and fruit production. At least 75 percent of all the flowering plants on earth are pollinated by insects and animals, leading to food not only for humans, but for animals as well. “Some spotty reproduction is taking place here and there, but, overall, populations of monarchs are down,” Taylor said in opening remarks at the workshop. “We’ve lost a lot of habitat and we need organizations to step up and restore habitat or we’ll lose this migration.”
Parks Provide Habitat For pollinators, state parks are a safe oasis of green in a sprawling landscape of farm fields, parking lots and subdivisions. The land around Cuivre River State Park, for example, is predominately agricultural with fields. Babler State Park, which held a “Pollinator Palooza” in August, is surrounded by suburbia in St. Louis County. The 4,000 acres of Prairie State Park, which regularly schedules walks to inspect its bounty of pollinators, represents the largest remaining remnant of the prairie grasses that once covered 13 million acres of Missouri. “The diversity of park habitat also is important,” said Kendra Swee, interpretive resource coordinator for state parks. “A lot of things we do in state parks to manage the diversity of plants is assisting pollinators as well. Prescribed fire, for example, increases the diversity of host plants.” Swee said homeowners can help by using native plants such as milkweed, golden rod and coneflowers in their landscaping. However, she said buyers should use caution when choosing plants. Plants, and seeds, also, should be grown in nurseries that do not use neonicotinoid, an insecticide associated with declining populations of bees.
The larva of a Polyphemus moth was one of the interesting finds during a field trip at Cuivre River State Park. (Photo: Missouri State Parks)
120 Years of Collecting Phil Koenig of O’Fallon, Mo., was among the group following Taylor through the tallgrass prairie at Cuivre River State Park. While Taylor is gathering data nationwide on monarchs, Koenig is doing similar work on a smaller scale in Missouri. “My grandparents always had vegetables and flowers in their backyard and I became fascinated with the butterflies and never gave up that childhood interest,” said Koenig, who is 73 and retired. Koenig has a collection of some 5,000 butterfly and moth specimens from North and South America, and currently is transcribing hand-written data cards from the life-time records of the late Richard Heitzman to an electronic database. “I’ve almost finished putting 216,000 records from his small data cards into the database, so they will be easy to access for researchers,” he said. “It covers about 120 years of collecting, and you should be able to see some variation in the populations.” Generally, Koenig said, the loss of habitat has led to declining populations of pollinators in Missouri. “Parks are helping preserve what’s left,” he said. Article Courtesy of Missouri State Parks Chip Taylor, founder of Monarch Watch, demonstrates the proper method of holding a Great Swallowtail butterfly during an outing at Cuivre River State Park. (Photo: Missouri State Parks)
JULY - 2017
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
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JULY - 2017
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Feature Story
Running and Gunning For Summer Catfish
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akes are fields of water with who knows what under the surface. Depth finders and graphs are required to find brush and other hidden cover. Predators like big catfish work through these areas where they can easily find food. Smaller bait fish or crawfish routinely stay around brush, creek beds, submerged bridges, stumps or cover where they can avoid being devoured. Catfish visit these areas where food is plentiful.
We decided to do an afternoon trip. The summer air was surprisingly cool and pleasant as we motored across the waves and skimming shallow water with surprising ease in his stable G3 boat. Soon Williams pulled up to a snake-filled spot that was thick with brush where six spinning reels on cue-stick rods were quickly rigged. He carefully painted each treble with his own brand of cheese-flavored stink bait and cast each to the edge of brush, logs and stumps.
I recently was invited to fish for large cats on Truman Lake with Jeff Williams, president of Team Catfish and a noted catfish tournament fisherman. I had heard of his exploits from other professional anglers and wanted to try his techniques. I seldom turn down an invitation to fish with a professional catfish expert; there is always more to learn about these complex fish.
“Let’s move,” he said after 15 minutes. “They would have found the baits by now if there were cats in there. Let’s try some flats.”
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Hmmm, 15 minutes, I thought while glancing at my watch and remembering how many times I had watched rods all night on rivers or lakes while hoping for just a bite to break the boredom. All baits were quickly reeled in and we were quickly bouncing down the lake.
Feature Story Before anchoring Williams showed me what he was looking for on his graph; deep water that quickly turned shallow as we passed over the flats with plenty of brush in the area. This first area bordered a small river or big creek that quickly dropped down 30 feet and curved in a horse-shoe shape. We cast out to where the flats ended and just before the big drop. Minute’s later one of the rods slightly tipped. I started to reach for the rod and Williams cautioned for me to not touch it. I, like most catfish fishermen, tend to set the hook quickly. Williams explained that it’s important to let the catfish really take the bait. Big cats can eat whatever they want. Smaller fish in the three to ten pound range tend to be more aggressive. “Most cat fishermen try to set the hook on every little bite,” Williams said. “A little bitty bite is often a little bitty fish. A bigger catfish will do two things. It’ll either double the rod or sometimes it will just slowly bend the rod. Make sure you have a firm commitment from your fish before trying to hook it.” I took his advice, waited a few minutes longer and WHAM! I set the hook hard and felt a good fish on the other end. I reeled up and gained back some line and then lost it as it slipped under the boat. To my surprise the cat flashed on the surface and dove down again. The big blue cat made several more desperate runs before Williams netted the five pounder. “The catfish are in a summer pattern,” Williams said. “We saw plenty of shad on the mud flats this afternoon. Shad moved there to feed on plankton. Catfish and other species follow, looking for easy meals. The flats become excellent ambush points. I love to target those fish this time of year.” Williams changed tactics quickly when the bites failed at our first spot. He discovered that if you find catfish using woody locations in one section of a lake, chances are catfish will be doing the same in other areas. The trick is to find the structure they prefer. “Catfish feel more comfortable in shallow water with plenty of wind blowing,” Williams said. “The waves may push in a lot more food. Current, too, will generally hold the fish in shallow water. Generating water means more oxygen too, a big factor in the summer when water temperatures are really warm.”
Set out your lines and wait...but not for too long. (Photo: Steve Matt)
I quickly learned that we were not looking where fish were living, but where fish were feeding. Active fish tend to react quickly to appealing bait while those at home may not. The trick is to find feeders through their sense of smell. Bait presentation is extremely important. Catfish have eyes and whiskers that allow them to actually sense their food. Preparing shad by scaling the bait fish before filleting each side. Even the scales are flipped in the water to float downstream and attract more cats. Leave the gut sack intact for extra attraction. Often catfish will leave the gut sack while sides are undisturbed. However, certain catfish like flatheads will only take live bait while channel and blue cats are less particular. The key is making sure the catfish are attracted to something good to eat by scent. Williams reels in his bait slowly to allow the scent to trail out. Then he casts back to the same spot. Catfish will follow the scent trails and sometimes continue environment-friendly and nasty smelling scents that will attract cats. This means casting back in the same area is important; otherwise a cat following the first scent trail will miss your bait.
Kenneth Kieser (Left) The author caught several catfish this size by running and gunning. (Photo: Steve Matt)
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Outdoor News
PSA: Go Jump in the Lake… or Not
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ust when you thought leeches and abandoned fishhooks were the only dangers lurking in lakes and rivers, here’s another thing: leptospirosis. This bacterial infection, caused by various species of the genus Leptospira, can lead to kidney damage, liver failure and worse in dogs and their human counterparts. Leptospires are typically found in rivers, lakes, streams and soil. The organisms flourish in warm, slowmoving or stagnant water, but can also be found along the shores of lakes and rivers and in wet, shaded grassy areas. They can pose a danger to dogs who spend more time splashing in the water during summer and fall. Infected animals shed the organisms in their urine, where they get into the soil and water and thrive. Once the bacteria make their way into water, they can survive for months. One Gulp Can Lead to Infection: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be transmitted from animals to people. So if your dog has leptospirosis, you could become infected when cleaning up a urine accident in the house, although you are more likely to be infected by swimming, waterskiing or boating in contaminated waters. The good news is that felines appear to be less susceptible to infection than dogs or people. Signs of Infection Can Be Vague: How can you tell if your dog has leptospirosis? It’s not easy. Most dogs show no signs at all, some may have mild signs and recover, while others can develop severe, life-threatening signs. Signs can range from fever, shivering, muscle soreness, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite to increased thirst and urination, yellowing of the gums, eyes and skin and difficulty breathing. Infection can lead to bleeding disorders, resulting in blood in the vomit or stool, nosebleeds and purplish spots on the skin and gums. Even if your dog isn’t showing signs, he can still shed the bacteria in his urine and make others sick.
In people, leptospirosis can cause kidney and liver damage, meningitis, respiratory distress, abortion and even death. Like dogs, some infected people may show no symptoms at all while others may have severe headaches or flu-like symptoms. The Importance of a Diagnosis: Because leptospirosis can have serious consequences for your dog and your family, it’s important to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Leptospirosis Treatment: Antibiotics are the cornerstones of treatment. Dogs may also be given medication to help reduce vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, pets may need to be hospitalized. If there are other dogs in the household, even if they aren’t showing signs, your veterinarian may recommend treatment for them, too. With early and aggressive treatment, most dogs recover. Unfortunately, there’s no way to tell if the water’s contaminated before you or your dog cannonball off the dock into the lake. It may help if you bring fresh water for your dog and avoid letting him drink from lakes, streams and stagnant water. There is a vaccine available for dogs that may help prevent infection. This annual vaccine is usually not part of the routine schedule, so talk to your veterinarian to see if your dog may be at risk, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors together. Release Courtesy of Diamond Pet Foods JULY - 2017
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Outdoor News
Doolittle Trailers: Haulin’ Conservation
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n the road from Carson, Nevada to New York, New York, you’ll see a lot of trailers, but you’ll only see one trailer that supports Missouri conservation. Every time you see a “Doolittle” logo, know that trailer comes from a Missouri-based company that believes in keeping sportsmen on the road and in the field. Doolittle Trailer Mfg., Inc. is a family owned and operated business, and is a leading manufacturer of utility, dump, deckover, equipment, and enclosed trailers located in Holts Summit, Missouri. Founded in 1978 by Fred Werdenhausen, Doolittle has grown from its humble beginnings to a leading national trailer manufacturer with more than 140 employees. In 2014, Doolittle became the “The Official Trailer of the Conservation Federation of Missouri” joining CFM as a Silver business alliance member. Since that time, the company has supported CFM through the business alliance, event sponsorship and donating trailers to CFM’s annual convention for fundraising. “I’ve always been an avid hunter, fisher and outdoor enthusiast, as are many of Doolittle’s employees, so we understand the importance of protecting Missouri’s outdoors,” said Ryan Werdenhausen, General Manager and third generation member of Doolittle Trailer Mfg. “As avid outdoorsmen, we also understand how important a quality trailer can be to get you into the field faster. At Doolittle, we understand what outdoorspeople are looking for in trailers and build to suit.” Doolittle offers more than 180 products in five product categories (Cargo, Dump Utility, Deckover, and Equipment). For the outdoorsperson, Werdenhausen recommends either a 77”x10’ or 77”x12’ utility trailer, which he notes is “perfect for lawn mowers, ATVs, UTVS, hauling wood, and many other purposes.” For a more secured trailer, Doolittle offers a line of enclosed cargo trailers, which Werdenhausen notes is “great if you don’t have a shop to store your valuables and keep them out of the weather.”
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The Doolittle team. (Photo: Courtesy of Doolittle Trailers)
Doolittle does everything it can to make sure quality components are engineered into every process from beginning to end. The result is a professionally designed trailer that has the structural integrity that has made them a recognized name brand. An example of this can be seen in the finish; the company uses a two-part epoxy primer and a two part polyurethane paint on all of its open trailer lines. Have something specific or unique in mind for your trailer? Give them a call. Each of Doolittle’s trailers are handcrafted at the company’s Holts Summit facility by hardworking Americans who are skilled in the trailer industry. Each unit is ordered, built and finished in a process that ensures top quality delivered in a timely manner. To find your trailer, visit www.doolittletrailers.com. Rehan Nana Director of Corporate Relations, CFM
Outdoor News
MidwayUSA Celebrates 40 Years
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his year marks a historic milestone for the MidwayUSA business and the Potterfield family. June 18, 2017, MidwayUSA celebrated its 40th year of serving customers. Forty years ago Larry and Brenda Potterfield opened the doors to a small gun shop, under the name Ely Arms, Inc, selling new and used long guns, handguns and a selection of shooting and reloading supplies. Seven short years later, the business transitioned to mail order only and changed their name to Midway Arms, Inc. Often referred to as the grandfather of reloading, the young company became the first distributor of bulk brass in the 1980s – first from Starline Brass, then Winchester and Remington. Today, MidwayUSA occupies a 21-acre campus in Columbia, Missouri and has become, without question, one of the leading internet retailers of Just About Everything© for Shooting, Hunting and the Outdoors. Many things have changed over the last 40 years at MidwayUSA, but a few things have remained the same. Customers still come first, Employees are treated like family, and Suppliers are friends and partners. The organization's relentless pursuit of continuous improvement and performance excellence has led to the receipt of two consecutive Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards (2009 and 2015). MidwayUSA is one of only seven organizations to earn the award twice since the first award cycle in 1988. "For 40 years now, we've been a family-owned company with a strategy to put Customers first," said Larry Potterfield, Founder and CEO of MidwayUSA. "Our Employees, Suppliers, and the way we manage the business have all contributed significantly to the growth of MidwayUSA; but it's our Customers that have been, and will continue to be, the reason for the success and sustainability of the organization." Combining passion and vision, Larry and Brenda have used their business success to become two of the leading benefactors of the Shooting Sports Industry. They founded the NRA Round-Up program in 1992 and since then have been asking MidwayUSA Customers to round up the total of each order and donate the change to the NRA/ILA.
Larry and Brenda Potterfield. (Photo: Courtesy of MidwayUSA)
To date, MidwayUSA Customers have contributed over $13.6 million for the NRA/ILA through the program. Additionally, the Potterfields helped found the Friends of NRA in 1992, which has raised over $740 million for The NRA Foundation. In 2007 Larry and Brenda established the MidwayUSA Foundation, a public charity, designed to help communities and organizations raise funds to support their high school, college and other youth shooting teams. The MidwayUSA Foundation currently manages over $115 million in assets, have paid over $16 million in grants, and provide financial support to over 2,500 youth shooting teams.
About MidwayUSA Both country kids from Missouri, Larry and Brenda Potterfield turned their passion for shooting sports into a career by opening a small gun shop in 1977 that would eventually become MidwayUSA (www.midwayusa. com). They instilled family values like honesty, integrity and respect for others into the business, and strive to maintain this culture with each Employee added to their growing team. For nearly 40 years, MidwayUSA has maintained an unyielding focus on Customer Satisfaction and continues to offer JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING® for Shooting, Hunting and the Outdoors. For more information on MidwayUSA, visit their website (midwayusa.com), find them on Facebook (facebook.com/ OfficialMidwayUSA), or follow them on Twitter (twitter. com/midwayusa). Release Courtesy of MidwayUSA
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Feature Story
Prevent Epic Floods in the First Place
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nother year; another ‘record-breaking’ flood; another debate about levees. Einstein said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results. It is time to recognize that development in flood plains, wetlands and riparian buffers is causing these catastrophes. It is also time to recognize that nature has provided the only solution that is practical, cost effective and scalable. We can soak up water before it floods. A strategic re-introduction of native grasslands on just 10 percent of the Mississippi River watershed’s tributary landscape would significantly reduce flood levels. The potential positive impact is enormous with simultaneous benefits for the environment, wildlife and renewable energy. Missouri receives more than 138 million acre feet of rainwater annually; eight times more than the flow through the Colorado river basin. We need to store that water by absorption, infiltration, and transpiration instead of diverting it to creeks, streams and rivers.
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Roughly one third of Missouri was once covered by tallgrass prairie, with root systems capable of absorbing water deep in the soil and underground aquifers. Native prairie can soak up eight-inch rainfalls using high concentrations of soil organic matter that hang on to water and nutrients. It is equally clear from hydrology research on major U.S. rivers, including studies involving ecologist Steve Apfelbaum of AES Inc., that the absence of native vegetation coincides with a dramatic increase in flooding. Along Illinois’ Des Plaines River, low and median flood levels are 200-400 times greater than historically; high flow floods are three to five times greater. The increases coincided with original plowing and drainage of prairies and wetlands followed by development of impervious landscapes in towns and cities. We are documenting the benefits of native grasses at my Northern Missouri farm. Dr. Ranjith Udawatta and Dr. Shibu Jose at the University of Missouri are comparing soil and water conditions of constructed prairie on highly erodible land with adjacent land planted in row crops. Initial results show far less water run-off from the prairie tract. And the water is much cleaner.
Feature Story We are also implementing the innovative Iowa State University STRIPS program which calls for planting native grassland species in strategic locations within row crops to protect soil and water quality. More than five million acres of grassland, wetland and fragile land were converted to corn and soybean production between 2006 and 2012; a period of high commodity prices and generous government crop insurance programs. With lower commodity prices, owners of highly erodible acres should be open to returning these assets to their natural intended use. One private market incentive to accomplish this conversion is to sustainably harvest and sell a portion of the grass as feedstock for renewable energy production. A broad cross-section of stakeholders at the Midwest Conservation Biomass Alliance is working to determine the optimum mixture of native plantings to sustain energy production, the environment and wildlife habitat. Another step involves the increasingly popular use of cover crops on commodity agriculture land. Corn and soybean production provides food, feed and fiber for a growing world population. But their production systems reduce water infiltration and storage. Planting cover crops after harvest facilitates water absorption, enhances soil health, prevents erosion and reduces soil compaction, while providing wildlife and pollinator habitat. The floodplain closest to waterway channels needs restoration to take strain off free-flowing streams and rivers modified by dams and levees. Continuous riparian corridors containing natural vegetation retain flood water and prevent property damage. However, riparian corridors are frequently disrupted by development that replaces native vegetation. The main point is that catastrophic flooding is avoidable. Restoring native grasslands, promoting cover crops and fortifying riparian corridors delivers a natural water accumulation system to reduce the environmental impact of major floods. It creates new habitat where wildlife and pollinators can thrive. Renewable energy production makes the concept economically viable.
2017 flood preparation. (Photo: Courtesy of Rudi Roeslein)
The elimination of most native prairie over the past two centuries happened for reasons commensurate with the time. But this is a new and different time. We are obligated to change land management practices because of our collective responsibility to sustain our planet. A vast amount of good can come about as a result. If we cannot learn from our mistakes then why bother recording history? The great Dust Bowl was created when people on the semiarid plains mistakenly believed ‘if we plant wheat it will rain’. Documentary producer Ken Burns called it “…the worst man-made ecological disaster in American history; when the irresistible promise of easy money and the heedless actions of thousands of individuals, encouraged by government, resulted in a collective tragedy that nearly swept away the breadbasket of the nation.” Sadly, we are again trying to make land do something it cannot do. Today’s misconception is that millions of hilly acres unsuitable for farming can be terraced to permit corn and soybean production. But when it rains, most of the water runs off the hills or is quickly carried into creeks by drain tiles. H. Howard Finnell, a soil scientist from Oklahoma A&M who had the daunting task of saving the soils of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, concluded that “nearly 80 percent of a year’s rainfall never soaked deeply enough into the subsoil to benefit crops.” The Meramec River basin has nearly four thousand square miles (or 2.56 million acres) feeding it. When it rains 12 inches, 840 billion gallons of water must go somewhere. So, if 80 percent runs off, more than 672 billion gallons of water goes into the Meramec river basin without the benefit of accumulation of its prior flood plains, riparian areas and the accumulation created by prairies and wetlands. This is a problem that can be turned into an opportunity to store water, preserve soil and prevent this continuous cycle of flooding and misery. Restore our prairies, our flood plains, and change our agricultural practices. Then we can solve this ever-worsening man-made calamity. Mr. Finnell’s conclusion after the Dust Bowl rings true about recent historic flooding: “Our efforts to manipulate the forces of nature to fit our own convenience are wrong. Instead we should attempt to harmonize our farming operations to fit conditions as they are, rather than as we hope they will be.” Rudi Roeslein
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Outdoor News
Help Update and Maintain the Katy Trail Turner Shelter
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he Conservation Foundation of Missouri Charitable Trust runs the 40 bed Turner Shelter in Tebbett’s, MO. It is operated by the Charitable Trust on the “honor system,” at a rate of $6 per person per night. It is frequently reserved by scout troops, groups of hikers or cyclists, or simply individuals seeking a respite from the Trail, with the added benefit of possibly meeting fellow outdoor enthusiasts. They find a bed, a refrigerator, microwave and hotplate, a shower and toilet – and a good book if they are interested. It’s the first of what we hope to be a series of shelters which hikers and cyclists can use someday to traverse the entire length of the Katy Trail across Missouri – just like shelters or hostels you might find along the Appalachian Trail for example.
How will my donation be used? Right now, the Turner shelter needs a new electric heating system, completion of the separate shower stall project and updated florescent lighting. This year’s commemorative fine art campaign hopes to raise $12,000 to cover all those updating & maintenance costs. For only $24 you can purchase: Horse-scape – 24" x 18" Commemorative Poster on 80#, eco-certified cover stock. Lithographic print of the rolling hills along the Katy Trail. Print of original acrylic on canvas by renowned Missouri legacy artist Bryan Dawes Haynes.
Bryan Dawes Haynes is an illustrator, muralist, and commercial artist whose work has appeared in the pages of national magazines, in advertising campaigns, and on album covers, posters, and book covers. Recent commissions include works on display at the Kauffman Foundation in Kansas City, the Westward Expansion Memorial Museum at the Arch, and the Missouri Botanical Gardens. He lives in St. Alban’s, MO. To purchase your copy, visit conservancypress.com/ product/katytrailshelters. Release Courtesy of CFM
“Whatever it is, Bryan Haynes creates art that is sublimely beautiful, art that stirs emotions in the viewer. He is part Thomas Hart Benton, with a dash of George Catlin, Grant Wood, Joe Jones, N. C. Wyeth and any number of other great artists. But to compare his style to that of others does him a discredit, for his work is in many ways unique and stands apart from any other artist.” -Bob Moore, National Park Historian
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Outdoor News
Camping at State Parks Brings Families Closer
M
issouri has 93 state parks and historic sites, and about half offer camping. Accommodations range from full-service sites with electricity, sewer and water, hiking trails leading through the forest to backpack and camping. Some of the Missouri’s best sites: Montauk State Park at the headwaters of the Current River near Salem: Montauk, Bennett Spring and Roaring River are the state’s three trout parks, which are popular camping spots for fishermen. Campgrounds are located along the gurgling spring-fed branches. Pomme de Terre State Park on a lake north of Springfield: This is the smallest of the parks near large man-made lakes popular for water recreation. Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock, Stockton, Truman and Mark Twain also are parks located near impoundments. Many of the camp sites at the parks offer lake views. Hawn State Park in southeast Missouri: The park is known for its large stand of short-leaf pines and hardwoods, which put on a gorgeous autumn display. Orchids and wild azalea bloom in the spring. Pickle Creek and the River Aux Vases flow below the sandstone ledges, and Whispering Pines Trail is perhaps the state’s most popular long hike. Meramec State Park off Interstate 44 an hour’s drive southwest of St. Louis: The campgrounds are on the Meramec River, which offers easy family floating. Eight camping sites are available to backpackers on the 8.5mile Wilderness Trail, and shorter hikes lead to scenic overlooks from majestic bluffs. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park on the Black River in southeast Missouri: The park was devastated by the collapse of a mountaintop utility reservoir in 2005, but has been rebuilt and restored to its former grandeur. The campground has a full-range of choices, from walk-in campsites that offer solitude to sites built especially for equestrians hauling trailers.
Enjoy the outdoors this summer at Sam A. Baker State Park. (Photo: Courtesy of Missouri State Parks)
Sam A. Baker State Park in southeast Missouri: The Mudlick Trail is a rugged, 11-mile walk through wilderness, with several camping shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps along the way. Big Creek is a lovely, shallow stream that cuts through the park by the campgrounds. Be sure to visit a Missouri State Park this summer and enjoy the outdoors. To see what is available, or to use the camping reservation system, visit www.mostateparks.com. Release Courtesy of Missouri State Parks
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
6/13/16 4:30 PM
th Annual Conservation Federation
Sporting Clays Classic Brought to you by Conservation Federation of Missouri and Bass Pro Shops of Columbia
Saturday, +VMZ - River Hills Sporting Clays, Boonville, MO - Registration includes lunch for participants -
Schedule of Events
Registration: Shooting: Awards:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm 9:00 am - 3:00 pm 3:30 pm
Shoot as a Team or Individual
Two Shooter Scramble – 75 targets, $50/team Additional rounds $35/team Individual Sporting Clays – 50 targets, $35/shooter Additional rounds $20
Two Shooter Scramble
Individual Sporting Clays
1st Place:
1st Place:
3 Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class
2nd Place: 3rd Place:
2 $50 Bass Pro Gift Cards & 2 cases of shells 2 $25 Bass Pro Gift Cards & 1 case of shells 2 $25 Bass Pro Gift Cards
3 Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class
2nd Place: 3rd Place:
$50 Bass Pro Gift Card & 1 case of shells $25 Bass Pro Gift Card & ½ case of shells $25 Bass Pro Gift Card
Mail Registration to: CFM, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101 - or call (800) 575-2322 Name: _____________________________________________________________________ Teammate’s Name: ________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________________ State: ___________________ Zip: ___________________ Phone: (___________) ___________________________________ &NBJM: ___________________________________________________________________________________@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@__
Total Payment Enclosed: $_____________________
Call (800) 575-2322 for sponsorship opportunities
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If there are errors in your name or address, please notify us at: Missouri Wildlife 728 W. Main Jefferson City, MO 65101 or call 573-634-2322.