May 2017 vol 78 no 3 by Conservation Federation

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

The Voice for Missouri Outdoors MAY 2017 - VOL 78 | NO. 3

Director’s Message

Conservation Demands Greater Communication

ight now, without looking it up, do you know who your state representative is? How about your state senator? Not Federal. Not the polished politicians you sometimes catch a glimpse of on CNN or read about in statewide Brandon Butler addresses the Missouri newspapers. I’m Outdoor Communicators at their annual talking about meeting. (Photo: Emma Kessinger) your local elected representation in the state legislature. If you answered no, don’t beat yourself up too bad. Very few people know. But that needs to change. And media is the answer. CFM is an organization of 85 affiliated organizations, 90 Business Alliances and 5,000 individual members. We represent hundreds-of-thousands of Missourians and we are growing. Few things please me more than someone saying to me, “I am hearing so much more about CFM these days and all the things you guys are working on.” I thank them, and assure them it’s not happening by accident. We are engaging the media and asking for their help to educate Missourians about all the issues facing conservation and natural resources in Missouri. Through organizations like the Missouri Outdoor Communicators, Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers, Professional Outdoor Media Association, Outdoor Writers Association of America and others, CFM engages with specific media members and platforms, and pitches stories to be told and messages to be spread. Many of our affiliates do the same. Those that don’t need to start. If you read, watch or listen to outdoor media, how much more content do you really need about the pre-rut, post-spawn, the trout opener, hunting mushrooms and other topics that tend to be covered annually.

We need our outdoor communicators to start digging into the politics of how we maintain such privileges. There is a whole underworld of conservation policy they could be covering, and educating audiences about the often unbelievable attempts by state legislators to cripple conservation efforts and natural resources protection. Members of the media need to communicate on the importance of support for conservation, including funding and public land access, to ensure a desire for healthy game and fish populations, and adequate lands on which to make those pursuits. At CFM, we are working very hard to engage the media and encouraging them to produce content. Because of our regular contact with outdoor communicators, like Kenny Kieser, Bobby Whitehead, Ray Eye, Ken Taylor, Brent Frazee, Bill Cooper, Ron Kruger and more, Missouri citizens are starting to hear more about the goings-on in Jefferson City. While engaging professional media members is extremely important to our communication efforts, so is social media. If you’re a member of CFM, or a dedicated conservationist who should be but just hasn’t got around to joining yet, you need to be engaging in the politics of conservation for your own interests. Your social media platforms are powerful. So share a post on Facebook about conservation issues, tweet about the importance of public lands, upload a YouTube video that educates about a certain conservation topic, or if you are really ambitious, write a Letter to the Editor of your local newspaper. Media has changed and we need you to play your part. You don’t need to work for the St. Louis PostDispatch or Kansas City Star to reach an audience these days. Let your “friends” know about the actions of your local politicians, good or bad.

Yours in Conservation, Brandon Butler Executive Director, CFM

MAY - 2017

CONTENTS

Conservation Federation May 2017 - V 78 No. 3

Features

OFFICERS Ron Coleman

President

Gary Van De Velde

1st Vice President

Mossie Schallon

2nd Vice President

Richard Mendenhall Secretary Randy Washburn

Treasurer

STAFF 42

50 30

Katy Trail State Park a Missouri Gem

Goggle-eye: A Swamp Challenge

Mastodon Tusk Receives Loving Care

Public Land Bobs: An Exercise in Expectations (Part Two)

Conservation Today

April Showers Bring May Flowers

Birds That Love Nectar

Celebrating Missouri's Natural Legacy

Wonders of Wildlife Opening This September

Departments 3 6 8 10

23 36

Director’s Message Business Alliance Spotlight President's Message Member News Memorials New Members Gear Guide Calendar Wildgame Recipe Affiliate Spotlight Agency News

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Highlights 18 24 41 48 49 64 65

Yeti Membership Promotion CFM Convention Recap Saving the Panamanian Gold Frog Glenn Chambers Honored at CFM Convention Book Review: The Natural Heritage of Illinois Choosing the Right Dog St. Louis Loses Two Open Space Conservators

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

Michael Wardlaw

Events Manager

Emma Kessinger

Creative Director

ABOUT THE MAGAZINE

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 Biking on the Katy Trail Photo: Marekuliasz (ID: 584473724)

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 Redneck Blinds Riley Chevrolet Roeslein Alternative Energy, LLC Weston Products United Country Real Estate

Aberdeen, South Dakota 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. Pure Air Natives, Inc. SportDOG Brand Starline, Inc. Sydenstrickers Tiger Hotel

Hodgdon Powder Company, Inc. Huzzah Valley Resort 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 Advantage Metals Recycling 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. MAY - 2017

Business Alliance

Pure Air Natives: CFM's Corporate Conservationist of the Year for 2016

onservation and Commerce have been integrally tied since the founding of modern conservation in Missouri. Pure Air Natives, Inc. embodies this link by supporting the conservation community and incorporating conservation into the ethos of their business model. Native habitats, including prairies, wetlands, woodlands & savannas are some of the most threatened ecosystems in the United States. The restoration of these fragile ecosystems will be accomplished through the knowledgeable and dedicated staffs of companies such as Pure Air Natives, Inc, working to ensure restoration efforts grow to their full potential. Pure Air Natives, Inc. works to provide native seed & plants for restoration in Missouri and adjacent states. The business not only provides the highest quality seed and plants, but also the knowledge of professionals practicing restoration for upwards of 50 years.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Pure Air Natives, Inc. has close relationships with the architects, engineers, designers and contractors pursuing restoration throughout Missouri and can be a resource for your next habitat restoration project. In order for CFM to accomplish its conservation mission, it relies on the support of businesses that understand the necessity of our mission and choose to help us keep Missouri’s waters clean, and our wildlife – wild. At the 2017 annual convention, Pure Air Natives, Inc. won “Corporate Conservationist of the Year” for their outstanding support. Jennifer Eggemeyer, Sales Manager, Pure Air Natives, Inc. is a Missouri native and proud member of the conservation community. During Jennifer’s time with Pure Air Natives, Inc., the company has been one of CFM’s most steadfast corporate supporters.

Business Alliance

“Supporting CFM and other conservation organizations is not only our business, but also our privilege,” said Jennifer. “The Pure Air Natives, Inc. team is lucky that our personal passion for habitat restoration is also our career and we look forward to continuing to work with conservationists across the state.”

For Doug Bauer and Jon Wingo, co-owners of DJM & Pure Air Natives, support of CFM has been accomplished through fiscal means, volunteering time at conservation events, technical assistance related to complex conservation issues, and participation in statewide conservation discussions. Their knowledge of landscape ecology and wildlife biology has made a significant and positive impact on Missouri’s landscape.

“CBS Sunday morning (4-2-17) featured the World Seed Bank, a repository for crops from around the world. The concept of preserving our genetic heritage has become a viable business,” said Doug Bauer, President of DJM Ecological Service. “Pure Air Natives, Inc. has continued to grow from this newly rediscovered interest in genetic diversity and preservation.” “Supporting CFM and

A longtime supporter of CFM, Pure Air Natives are always willing to go above and beyond to other conservation ensure CFM’s mission and events are successful. As important as organizations is not only the financial support of CFM our business, but also our is, their vast knowledge and experience in Missouri habitat privilege." restoration pursuits is an even bigger resource. The Pure Air Natives team has given up many nights and weekends to be present at CFM events in an effort to educate citizens on the importance of ecosystem preservation and restoration.

In 2013, Pure Air Seed Company was purchased by the principals of DJM Ecological Services, Inc. DJM is also a CFM Business Alliance Member. DJM Ecological Services Inc. has 30+ years’ experience restoring habitat in Missouri and adjoining states and prior to the purchase, had been doing business with Pure Air Seed Co. and its original principals, Frank & Judy Oberle, for 15+ years. It is with that familiarity and pragmatic knowledge that they approach the native seed, wholesale plant, habitat restoration and open space preservation markets.

Rehan Nana Director of Corporate Relations, CFM

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In addition, Pure Air Natives supports many other organizations across Missouri’s conservation community. Some of these organizations include: The Missouri Prairie Foundation, The Open Space Council, Assorted DU Chapters, and Assorted NWTF Chapters (Local + State). All of which are supported financially and professionally by the staff at Pure Air Natives, Inc. and DJM Ecological Services, Inc.

Thanks to Pure Air Natives, Inc. and its affiliated companies, Missouri habitat will stay strong for future generations.

Specialists in native vegetation including seed and live plants for wetland mitigation, erosion control, green infrastructure, slope stabilization and landscapes comprised of native plants.

co m w.pur e a i r n a t i v e s.

MAY - 2017

President’s Message

On the Shoulders of Giants

egardless of the path in conservation you have elected to follow, you have at one time or another encountered a giant of sorts in your personal or professional life. It may have been a parent, friend, or relative who passed down their passion for farming, hunting, fishing, hiking or other outdoor pursuits. It may have been an educator, instructor or mentor who inspired you to acquire a better understanding of the natural world that surrounds you. Such role models are essential in shaping one’s future and conveying the knowledge necessary to enjoy the outdoors while also becoming a good steward of our land and water resources. The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) is a strong advocate for connecting people to conservation and for educating the public on the diversity of outdoor opportunities available to the conservation-minded citizenry of our state. It is only through education and solid partnerships that CFM over the past 80 years has been able to forge lasting relationships for protecting our conservation heritage in Missouri. CFM partners often plan quiet, unique experiences in order to communicate a message. This past weekend while spring was breaking out of a roller coaster winter (record breaking temperatures, both highs and lows), my wife and I took the opportunity to get outside and visit with one of our CFM partners at their 124-acre Prairie Star Restoration Farm in Osage County. Dr. Susan Flader, professor emeritus from the University of Missouri also gave a most informative presentation on the life of Aldo Leopold. It turned out to be both a beautiful spring day and a uniquely enriching experience. Bruce and Jan Sassmann had planned a full afternoon on the farm to explore and learn more about their conservation restoration work for which they were recognized by CFM in 2009 as the Wildlife Conservationists of the Year. Bruce and Jan, along with a number of partnering conservation organizations, are planning a creative event on June 2nd and 3rd entitled America’s Holy Trinity of Conservation.

Jan and Bruce Sassmann stand behind Dr. Susan Flader, left, and MDC Director Sara Parker Pauley at the Leopold cabin. (Photo: Rhonda Coleman)

This two-day event will feature renowned actors playing out the roles of three icons of the American conservation movement: Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), John Muir (1838-1914), and Aldo Leopold (1887-1948). Each member of this “Holy Conservation Trinity” is also represented on the farm with a permanent structure which was painstakingly researched and constructed to recreate an intimate building that provided inspiration to Thoreau, Muir or Leopold. After returning home that evening, I found myself greatly impressed not only with the Sassmann’s Farm and the concept of the upcoming Trinity event, but with the thought of how proud these three American conservation icons might be today if they were able to see how far Missouri forest, fish, wildlife and parks have evolved. We at CFM along with our public and our affiliate partners are proud to be standing on the shoulders of these giants in helping to protect the legacy that each promoted. Find out more about America’s Holy Trinity of Conservation at holytrinityofconservation.com.

Yours in Conservation, Ron Coleman President, CFM

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Member News

Honorariums

Memorials

In memory of David Risberg Dennis & Marta Anglim, Saint Louis David & Carol Bender, Saint Louis David & Sally Bender, Saint Louis Mark Bender, Saint Louis Toni Bernotas, Creve Coeur Mr. & Mrs. Michael Boland, Chesterfield Roy Brown, Kirkwood William Bush, Hobe Sound, FL Clark & Jean Davis, Saint Louis Charles & Jennifer Fischer, Saint Louis Gloria Gordon, Saint Louis Scott & Judy Guerrero, Webster Groves Allen & Joanne Hauge, Saint Louis Mike & Julie Holley, Kirkwood Sid & Phyllis Hutchins, Chesterfield Don Lents, Saint Louis Thomas Litz, Saint Louis

John & Irene Luby, Chesterfield Steve & Jeanne Maritz, Saint Louis Shauna McRoberts, Washington, DC John & Nancy Morris, Englewood, FL William & Mary Rogers, Chesterfield William & Teresa Risberg, Saint Louis Timothy & Debra Rohlman, Chesterfield Ronald & Lucy Ryan, Kirkwood George Smith, Saint Louis Etta Taylor, Saint Louis Mark Tucker, Saint Louis Susan Van de Riet, Saint Louis Richard & Mary Weinstock, Saint Louis Joseph & Kathy Weyhrich, Saint Louis Robert & Janet Whitehead, Kirkwood Bruce & Susan Whitesides, Columbia G. David Voges, Ladue Joseph & Phyllis Weinmann, Saint Louis

In memory of Scott Chastain John Harp, Fair Grove

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Get the truth about ethanol. www.mocorn.org 2014 Crappie Mag_Half Page.indd 1

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

11/5/2014 1:00:44 PM

Member News

WELCOME NEW CFM MEMBERS David Adams, Odessa

Robert Mallery, Wright City

Daniel Short, Crystal City

Eugene Allen, Fulton

John McClatchey, Columbia

Charles Skornia, Jefferson City

V. Bolin, Madison

Stuart Miller, Columbia

Thomas Slattery, Saint Charles

Richard & Susan Boone, Raytown

Ginevera Moore, Leawood, KS

Lorisa Smith, Jefferson City

Katherine Brookshire, Olean

Nate Muenks, Jefferson City

Hank Stelzer, Columbia

Steven Byers, Nevada

Norman Murray, Jefferson City

Steve Stewart, Blue Springs

Henry Drane, Saint Louis

William O'Donnell, Winona

Jason Sumners, Columbia

Bob Heine, Saint Louis

Cynthia Pence, Edgerton

Louis Swallow, Saint Louis

Dawn Henderson, West Plains

Joel Poreth, Jefferson City

Herbert Turner, Jerome

Linda Hoel, Excelsior Springs

Andrew Raedeke, Columbia

Anne Weber, Wright City

Theresa Hyland, Jefferson City

Jim Rathert, Jefferson City

Dwight Wyatt, Saint Louis

Jim Karpowicz, Columbia

Donald Richardson, Ballwin

Steve Young, Taneyville

Roy Keefer, Kahoka

Sherri Russell, Jefferson City

Brandon Kuhn, Licking

Teddi Schwartze, Arnold

Ken Lentz, Eagle Rock

Brian Schweiss, Jefferson City

Bruce Loewenberg, Clark

Richard Secrease, Saint Louis

CFM would like to thank the 212 members that renewed since our last publication.

Why I Became A CFM Life Member: Bill McCully

aving been a member of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) for several years I am well aware of the great work that CFM does. Upgrading to a lifetime membership was an easy way for me to provide some additional support to a great organization. As a retired Professional Engineer I am well aware of the societal changes that new technology has driven over the last 40 years. Technology is a great thing but it can also cause us to lose awareness of the natural world that surrounds us. CFM does a great job of informing people across the state that we are blessed with natural wonders if only we look to find them. The simple beauty of a small stream, a remnant tall grass prairie or a hardwood forest reminds us of our past and our care of these environments tells us a lot about our future.

The next generation of environmentalists, conservationists, and naturalists will come from a world where smart phones, computers and the internet are taken for granted. It is up to us to make sure that the next generation never take for granted the site of a bald eagle, a black bear or an elk in Missouri. CFM is a great advocate for the future and I am proud to support this organization.

MAY - 2017

Member News

Gear Guide Bradley Digital 4-Rack Smoker The Bradley Digital Food Smoker ensures temperature, time, and smoke are completely controllable so you can decide how much smoke you want, how long your food is going to be smoked for, and at what temperature. Perfect for entertaining, creating gourmet foods in your own home, or just enjoying the flavor that smoking brings, the new Bradley Digital Smokers offer an easier and better way to automatically roast, smoke and barbecue in the outdoors. www.bradleysmoker.com

Grey Owl Paddle Few states compare to Missouri when it comes to floating. Our rivers and lakes offer endless opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. If you’re going to float often, a great paddle is an important piece of gear, and Grey Owl produces some of the finest paddles on the market. Some paddles are designed to be used in diverse situations, while others are crafted with more of a specific purpose, like voyaging. The Owl Feather is an extraordinary all around recreational paddle while the Cherry Chieftain’s beavertail design is perfect for long distance. www.greyowlpaddles.com

CZ-USA Dan Wesson Commander Classic Bobtail - BUSINESS ALLIANCE Resurgence in demand brought the Commander Classic Bobtail back into regular production. With stainless steel slide and frame, its flats are brushed and rounds are bead blasted. With snag-free Tritium sights and a bobbed mainspring housing, it’s an excellent candidate for concealed carry. Chambered in .45 ACP with an 8-round capacity, the Commander Classic Bobtail is a great choice for your personal protection needs. www.cz-usa.com

Driftmaster Spider Rig Systems Driftmaster rod holders are the standard of the industry. The brands popularity is based on a reputation for excellence in quality, dependability, and service. With models available for all fishing situations, Driftmaster has developed a total rod holder system. The T-250-H is equipped with Li'l Pro rod holders and s designed for spider rigging jigs or minnows. The Li'l Pro rod holders offer the versatility of side trolling as well because of the "U" shaped front. www.driftmaster.com

ALPS Outdoorz Thicket Blind - BUSINESS ALLIANCE ALPS Outdoorz brought their innovation and durability from building top of the line backpacks to building ground blinds. High quality 600D polyester shadow-flauge fabric with blacked out backing is secured around flexible fiberglass poles and aluminum hubs. The 180° Silent-Trac windows provide limitless window positions, and the mesh windows slide for easy adjustments. The blind is easier to put up and take down due to the separating door design, and a carry bag with shoulder strap makes carrying a breeze. www.alpsoutdoorz.com

MAY - 2017

Member News

CALENDAR UPCOMING AFFILIATE EVENTS AUDOBON SOCIETY OF MISSOURI MAY 5-7: Spring Meeting, Springfield BASS SLAMMER TACKLE MAY 21: Autism Mentorship Fishing, Longview Lake, Lees Summit (9am - 2pm) BIG GAME HUNTERS MAY 10: General Meeting (6:30pm) MAY 17: Board of Directors Meeting (6:45pm) JUNE 4: Annual Picnic JUNE 11: Denny Dennis Memorial, Denny Dennis Sporting Goods, Fenton JUNE 21: Board of Directors Meeting (6:45pm) BURROUGHS AUDUBON SOCIETY OF GREATER KANSAS CITY MAY 4: Amphibians, Burroughs Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary, Blue Springs (10am - 12pm) MAY 6: Insects, Burroughs Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary, Blue Springs (10am - 12pm) MAY 10: Insects, Burroughs Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary, Blue Springs (10am - 12pm) MAY 12: Amphibians, Burroughs Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary, Blue Springs (10am - 12pm) FRIENDS OF ROCK BRIDGE MEMORIAL STATE PARK MAY 6: Hike to Hidden Treasurers of Rock Bridge - Shooting Star Wildflowers, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia (1:30 - 3:30pm) GREENWAY NETWORK MAY 1: Board Meeting, St. Peters (7 - 9pm) MAY 7: 17th Annual Dardenne Creek Monitoring Day (7:30am - 2pm) JUNE 5: Board Meeting, St. Peters (7 - 9pm)

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION MAY 8: Monthly Meeting, American Legion Hall, Brentwood (7:30pm) JUNE 14: Monthly Meeting, American Legion Hall, Brentwood (7:30pm) MISSOURI BASS FEDERATION JUNE 10: Board Meeting JUNE 11: 22nd Annual Summer Sizzler, Truman Lake - Long Shoal Marina (6am - 3pm) MISSOURI COALITION FOR THE ENVIRONMENT MAY 10: FSM Prayer Vigil for West Lake Landfill, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) MAY 11: Give St. Louis Day MAY 18: West Lake Landfill Community Meeting, Bridgton (6:30 - 8:30pm) MAY 19: We the People 2.0 Outdoor Movie Night, Ritz Park, St. Louis (7 - 9:30pm) MAY 24: West Lake Landfill Prayer Vigil, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) JUNE 14: FSM Prayer Vigil for West Lake Landfill, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) JUNE 15: West Lake Landfill Community Meeting, Bridgeton (6:30 - 8:30pm) JUNE 23: DNR Business and Industry Kitchen Cabinet Meeting, Jefferson City JUNE 28: West Lake Landfill Prayer Vigil, Bridgton (10 - 10:30am) MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED MAY 4: Saint Louis Sponsors Shoot, Strathalbyn Shooting Club, Weldon Springs (1- 5pm); Mike Checkett (901) 277-9118 MAY 6: Bates County Dinner, Optimist Building, Adrian (6 - 9:30pm); Dillon Pike (816) 582-5387

MAY 13: Old Monroe Shoot, Black Hawk Valley Shooting Park, Old Monroe (8:30am - 5pm); Cathy Kleinsorge (314) 578-1245 JUNE 10: Sponsor Dinner, Hayden's Residence, Sedalia (5:30 - 10pm); Carolyn Thomlinson (660) 826-5251 JUNE 30: License Plate Renewal, Statewide; Todd Carlton (573) 893-7449 MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION MAY 5: Triple B Chapter - Buffalo Big Birds, Market 116, Buffalo (6pm); Travis Pierce (417) 840-8761 MAY 6: Southern Boone Strutters, Optimist Club, Ashland (5:30pm); James Creel (573) 356-4924 MAY 6: Tick Ridge WITO Event, The Gun Grove Shooting Range, Macon; Chelsea Rice (660) 395-7400 MAY 21: Crowley's Ridge Limbhangers Jakes Event, Stars and Stripes Veterans Cemetery and Museum, Bloomfield; Dale Kemp (573) 624-9769 JUNE 3: Branson Tri-Lakes, Radisson Hotel, Branson (5pm); Charles Livingston (417) 699-3481 JUNE 10: Wheelin' Sportsmen Bootheel Boss Gobblers Clay Bird Shoot, Cracraft Farms, Jackson (8:30am) JUNE 10: Wheelin' Sportsmen Boss Gobblers, Knights of Columbus - Lower Hall, Jackson (5pm); Timothy Schwent (573) 225-3740 JUNE 16: Crowley's Ridge Limbhangers, Elks Lodge, Dexter (5:30pm); Kyle Ouzts (573) 258-0770 JUNE 17: Bollinger County Double Beards, First Baptist Church, Marble Hill (4:30pm); Jackie Rowe (573) 579-9170

Member News MISSOURI OUTDOOR COMMUNICATORS JUNE 2-3: Holy Trinity of Conservation, Prairie Star Restoration Farm, Bland MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATION MAY 6: Native Plant Sale, Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, Kansas City (9:30am - 2pm) MAY 6: Native Plant Sale, Bass Pro Shops, Columbia (10am - 2pm) MAY 18: Native Tree Walk, Black Culture Center - University of Missouri, Columbia (5:30 - 7pm) MAY 20: Native Plant Sale, Whole Foods Market, Town and Country (10am - 2pm) MAY 20: Sand Prairies of the Bootheel Tour, Sand Prairies Conservation Area, Benton (10am - 3pm) MAY 28: Glade and Savannah Breeding Bird Investigation, Chute Ridge Glade, Eagle Rock (10am - 12pm) JUNE 2-3: Holy Trinity of Conservation, Prairie Star Restoration Farm, Bland JUNE 3: National Prairie Day JUNE 10-11: 8th Annual Prairie BioBlitz, Stillwell Prairie JUNE 17: Native Tree and Glade Hike, Clifty Creek Natural Area, Dixon (10am - 1pm) JUNE 24: Native Tree Walk, Bellfontaine Cemetery, St. Louis (10am - 12pm) MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE MAY 19-21: 3rd Annual Outing, Bunker Hill - Jacks Fork MISSOURI SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FORESTERS JUNE 6-7: Summer Meeting - White Oak Management

MISSOURI TROUT FISHERMEN'S ASSOC. SPRINGFIELD MAY 2: Monthly Meeting, Lions Community Building, Branson (6 - 9pm) MAY 4: Fly Fishing Class, Mountain Springs Trout Park, Highlandville (6 - 9pm) MAY 6: Fly Fishing Class, Roaring River State Park (9am - 3pm) MAY 20-21: State Derby, Bennett Spring State Park, Lebanon JUNE 1: Monthly Meeting, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield (6 - 9pm) JUNE 6: Monthly Meeting, Lions Community Building, Branson (6 - 9pm) JUNE 10: Float Trip - James River MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITED MAY 13: Big Bucks Chapter Banquet, Lions Club, Harrisburg OZARK FLY FISHERS MAY 19-21: Club Outing, Montauk Trout Park MAY 25: General Membership Meeting, Edgar M. Queeny County Park, Ballwin (7 - 9pm) JUNE 22: Annual BBQ, Tilles Park OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB MAY 13: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30 - 7:30pm) MAY 13: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30 - 9pm) MAY 14: Smithville Lake State Wildlife Area, Plattsburg MAY 20-21: Black River - Horseshoe Ranch, Lesterville JUNE 4-5: Spring River - Quaker Mill, JUNE 8: Missouri River - LaBenite Park, Sugar Creek (9am - 3pm) JUNE 10: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30 - 7:30pm) JUNE 10: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30 - 9pm)

JUNE 15-16: Meramec River Outdoor Adventures JUNE 24: Kaw River - Kaw Point Park, Kansas City, KS (9am - 5pm) JUNE 25: Bike - Rock Island Trail, Pleasant Hill (10am - 4pm) JUNE 27: Hike - Black Hoof Park, Lenexa, KS (9am - 12pm) POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES MAY 20: Muskie Mayhem, Pomme de Terre Lake; George Donner (816) 678-1623 MAY 21: King of the Lake Tournament, Pomme de Terre Lake; George Donner (816) 678-1623 JUNE 2: Tour MDC Facility, Kirksville (4pm); Tim Dunaway (573) 588-4082 JUNE 3: Northern Missouri Muskie Trail Outing, Hazel Creek; Tim Dunaway (573) 588-4082 JUNE 4: Northern Missouri Muskie Trail Outing, Henry Sever; Tim Dunaway (573) 588-4082 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION MAY 6: Mid Missouri Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge, Columbia (5pm); Adam Augustine (573) 397-2207 MAY 13: Three Rivers Buglers Big Game Banquet, Poplar Bluff; Leonard Waggoner (573) 778-1652 ST. LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETY MAY 6: Beginner Bird Walk, Forest Park, Saint Louis (8:15 - 10:30am) TROUTBUSTERS OF MISSOURI MAY 19-21: 17th Annual Spring Troutbust, Hidden Valley Outfitters Campground, Lebanon CFM EVENTS MAY 20: Pull for Conservation, Geiger Shooting Range, Saint Joseph JUNE 17: Explore the Outdoors, Springfield

MAY - 2017

Wildgame Recipe

Weston Recipe: Salmon Jerky A sweet, smoky jerky sprinkled with coarse black pepper & smoked sea salt. Ingredients: 2 lbs salmon 1 orange 1 cup soy sauce 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup cracked black pepper 1/4 cup mesquite flavored liquid smoke 3 tablespoons Mesquite Smoked Sea Salt 3 tablespoons coarse ground black pepper

Directions: 1. Use the Weston Game Processing Set to remove the skin from the salmon and cut it into jerky strips. Place the salmon into a Weston Vacuum Canister. Use the Weston Manual Kitchen Kit to zest the orange, then set the zest aside. Cover the zest and refrigerate it for later. 2. Next, use the kit to juice the orange, then combine the juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and liquid smoke in the Kitchen Kit and mix. Pour the marinade over the salmon, cover, and use a Canister-capable Weston Vacuum Sealer to seal the canister. Refrigerate 12-24 hours. 3. Preheat your Weston Dehydrator to 155 degrees F. Remove the salmon from the canister and pat dry. Lay the salmon onto the dehydrator trays and sprinkle with the orange zest, smoked sea salt, and coarse black pepper. Dehydrate for 5 hours. Tools • • • •

Weston Game Processing Knives Weston Manual Kitchen Kit Weston Vacuum Sealer & Canister Weston Dehydrator

MAY - 2017

CFM'S HISTORY OF SUCCESS Member News

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Join CFM41936 for Three Years to Get a FREE CFM Yeti Rambler Amendment created DŝƐƐŽƵƌŝΖƐ ŶŽŶͲƉŽůŝƟĐĂů ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƟŽŶ ŽŵŵŝƐƐŝŽŶ͘ or a limited time, the Conservation Federation

of Missouri (CFM) is offering a three-year membership for $100 that includes a stainless1960 &ŝƌƐƚ ƚƵƌŬĞǇ ƐĞĂƐŽŶ ŝŶ Ϯϯ ǇĞĂƌƐ͘ steel 20 oz. CFM Yeti Rambler. The many historic 1982 achievements of CFM have KƉĞƌĂƟŽŶ 'ĂŵĞ dŚŝĞĨ ĨŽƌŵĞĚ͘ all been made possible thanks to individuals like you working together to 1990 accomplish extraordinary &ŝƌƐƚ ƐĞŐŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ <ĂƚǇ dƌĂŝů feats. If our future is to be ŽƉĞŶĞĚ ŝŶ ZŽĐŚĞƉŽƌƚ͘ as successful as our past, then we will need your help. Please join CFM today.2002

Our members are hunters,1940 fishermen, foresters, campers, trappers, hikers,&ŝƌƐƚ ĚĞĞƌ ƐĞĂƐŽŶ ŝŶ ϳ ǇĞĂƌƐ͘ paddlers, birdwatchers, gardeners and general outdoor enthusiasts. Anyone who appreciates Missouri's 1976 natural resources and sporting heritage benefits ĞƐŝŐŶ ĨŽƌ ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƟŽŶ ^ĂůĞƐ dĂǆ ƉĂƐƐĞĚ͘ from the actions of CFM. We are “The Voice for Missouri's Outdoors” for 1984 citizensWĂƌŬƐ ĂŶĚ ^ŽŝůƐ across the state and at the Capitol. Become a ^ĂůĞƐ dĂǆ ƉĂƐƐĞĚ͘ member and know you are supporting the outdoors you cherish. 1992 ^ŚĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ,ĂƌǀĞƐƚ ĨŽƌŵĞĚ͘

To join CFM, visit our website for easy online ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƟŽŶ >ĞĂĚĞƌƐŚŝƉ Your membership ŽƌƉƐ ĨŽƌŵĞĚ͘ includes registration at 2006 www.confedmo.org/join, mail a three-year subscription to DŝƐƐŽƵƌŝ ǀŽƚĞƌƐ ƌĞŶĞǁĞĚ ƚŚĞ WĂƌŬƐ ĂŶĚ our magazine Conservation the below application to 728 ^ŽŝůƐ dĂǆ ďǇ ƚŚĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƐƚ ƉĞƌĐĞŶƚĂŐĞ ƚŽ ĚĂƚĞ͘ Federation, special memberW. Main Street, Jefferson only discounts to select businesses and invitations to City, MO 65101 or contact Laurie Coleman at Today CFM events throughout the year. 573-634-2322 ext. 107. &D ĐĞůĞďƌĂƚĞƐ ϴϬ ǇĞĂƌƐ ŽĨ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŶŐ Missouri's natural resources.

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zŽƵƌ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ĂůůŽǁƐ ƵƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŶƟŶƵĞ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŶŐ DŝƐƐŽƵƌŝ͛Ɛ ŐƌĞĂƚ ŽƵƚĚŽŽƌƐ ĨŽƌ ŵĂŶǇ ŐĞŶĞƌĂƟŽŶƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŵĞ͘

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CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Member News

The Future of Conservation

hat will conservation and the state of Missouri’s natural resources look like 50 years from now? A daunting question, no doubt. One would be hard pressed to find a conservationist who didn’t feel at a minimum that preservation of natural resources, land, and wildlife can sometimes be an uphill battle.

CLC students engage in conservation by service work outdoors such as our summer clean up float, as well as resolution drafting, but also by engaging with affiliates and each other. When we talk to others with different perspectives and backgrounds, but a shared passion for conservation, we challenge each other. With every interaction we generate fresh ideas and inspiration.

The future can often feel uncertain; however every time I collaborate with fellow Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC) students I am amazed at the fortitude and intelligence students tackle conservation issues with. Every time CLC reunites I recharge in hope and determination.

The future can be worrisome, but CLC is capable. If you’re looking for a CLC alumni 50 years from now head to the nearest trail, shooting range, state park, or fishing spot. We’ll be there in our off time doing what we love, and enjoying the sweet side of Missouri’s conservation legacy.

This is a group of young people who “get it”, they not only enjoy the outdoors but see themselves as being connected to it. They study it, talk it, and fight for it regularly.

Ashley Hollis President, Conservation Leadership Corps CLC students enjoy the CFM Annual Convention in Jefferson City. (Photo: CFM)

MAY - 2017

Member News

Cabela's Hazelwood Upcoming Events May 6-7 • 11:00AM Truck Tents - Have you ever had to sleep in your truck? Check out our truck tents. • 1:00PM Thermacell Insect Repellant - Check out this demo and learn how to safely and effectively protect yourself and your family without using messy creams and sprays. May 13 • 11AM Ladies Archery 101 - Join the growing ranks of bow hunters with this introductory seminar as your first stop. • 2PM Ladies Shotgun 101 - Maybe you’re on the fence about a shotgun or perhaps you’re weighing your options and looking for the perfect fit to help protect yourself. We’ll break down the basics and help you find your perfect match. May 13-14 • Ladies Day Out - Come try a new skill and learn more about the outdoor sports you already love. • 10AM-3PM Archery Challenge with the Girl Scouts - Try your skills at our inflatable, hover ball archery game. May 20-21 • Hometown Hero’s - Join us this weekend as we celebrate and honor all active and reserve military and veterans along with law-enforcement, firefighters, search and rescue personnel and EMS. • 10AM-3PM Hands on BB Gun Range with The Fallen Outdoors - Learn shooting techniques in a safe and comfortable environment on the Cabela’s Safe BB Gun Range. May 27-28 • 11:00AM The Care and Feeding of an AR-15 Stop by and learn from our expert outfitters the proper way to field strip and clean an AR-15. Find out what accessories will help you. • 1:00PM Bowfishing Basics - Let our experts provide you with some basic information and options so you can choose the right bow for you. June 3 • 11:00AM Fryers and Boilers - From frying fish after a successful day on the water to a full Cajun boil, our fryers and boilers are great, easy-to-use additions to everyone’s cooking tools. • 1:00PM Easy-Made Meals - Imagine taking all of your ingredients, putting them inside a giant can, and walking away while they cook. That’s what can cooking is all about.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

June 4 • 11:00AM Pellet Grills Are All The Rage - From standard grilling to slow smoking, pellet grills are one of the most versatile grills available for backyard gourmets. Create amazing dishes that are hard to replicate with propane or charcoal. • 1:00PM Smoker Madness - Come see some of the best smokers available to backyard gourmets. Learn how easy it is to create dishes that will have your friends and family begging for more. June 10-11 • Family Adventure Day - Join us in partnership with Sportsman’s Alliance. During this time, we’ll be educating youth and their families on fishing, shooting and archery. • 10AM-3PM Archery Challenge - Try your skills at our inflatable hover ball archery game. • 10AM-3PM Hands-On Shooting At The Safe BB Gun Range - Learn shooting techniques in a safe and comfortable environment on the Cabela’s Safe BB Gun Range. • 10AM-3PM Kids' Fishing Fun - Watch as your children catch a fish in our catch-and-release pond. We will provide equipment and instruction. June 17-18 • 11:00AM Shooting-Sports Essentials - Whether you shoot skeet, trap, sporting clays or targets we’ve got everything you are looking for and more. • 1:00PM Fish Finding - When it comes to sonar, GPS or fish-finder technologies, there are a wide variety of options to choose from. June 24-25 • 11:00AM Optimal Optics - Our expert Outfitters will set you up with the right scope, rangefinder or pair of binoculars for your next big-game-hunting adventure. • 12:00PM Backyard BBQ Pizza - Make a delicious pizza on your grill using our pellet grill. Throw on your favorite toppings or cook a ready-to-bake pizza. • Taste of Cabela’s BBQ Sauce - Come sample all the flavors Cabela’s has to offer. • 1:00PM Cutting-Edge Knife Sharpening We'll show you how to properly sharpen a knife, regardless of whether it’s a serrated or a regular blade, a hunting knife or one of your kitchen knives. • 2:00PM Fine Tuning Your Bass Fishing - This presentation is for the bass enthusiast who wants to take their fishing to the next level.

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

2nd Annual Conservation Federation

Sporting Clays Classic May 20

Presented by:

Northwest Missouri’s Electric Cooperatives Saturday, May 20 - Geiger Scout Camp, St. Joseph, MO Schedule of Events Registration: Shooting: Silent Auction: Lunch: Awards:

8:00 am - 2:00 pm 9:00 am - 3:00 pm 9:00 am - 4:00 pm 11:00 am - 1:30 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

- Registration includes lunch for participants Provided by: N.W. Electric Power Cooperative Including: Atchison-Holt, Farmers’, Grundy, North Central Missouri, Platte-Clay, United, and West Central Individual Sporting Clays 3 Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class Two Shooter Scramble 3 Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class 1st Place: 2nd Place:

2 $50 Bass Pro Gift Cards & 2 cases of shells 2 $25 Bass Pro Gift Cards & 1 case of shells

1st Place: 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: (___________) ___________________________________ Name on Station Sponsor sign: _____________________________________________________________________________________

Total Payment Enclosed: $_____________________

Call (800) 575-2322 for sponsorship opportunities or email mwardlaw@confedmo.org

Affiliate Spotlight

United Bowhunters of Missouri

he United Bowhunters of Missouri (UBM) was founded in 1987 by a group of individuals living around the Kansas City area. They were concerned about the erosion of their hunting rights and the inclusion of new technologies into the archery season. They created an organization that would closely interact with the Missouri Department of Conservation to make sure that their voices would be heard. The UBM is involved in a variety of archery-related issues like the Archery in Schools Program and the establishment of urban bowhunting programs. They make sure their members know about proposed changes to Missouriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bowhunting regulations. They keep abreast of the latest developments across the country that may affect the way you are able to participate in your beloved sport. UBM is a family-oriented organization that has two main annual events; the Festival in February and the Rendezvous in June. Both of these gatherings give you plenty of time to shoot bows, talk about previous hunts and make plans for going on new ones.

Each year UBM is asked by several groups across Missouri to help mentor children in the use of archery equipment. At camps and fairs throughout the year, UBM members generously give their time so that youngsters can have the chance to shoot a bow. Some of these kids are severely handicapped and it is especially rewarding to see them overcome their challenges.

(Photo: Courtesy of United Bowhunters of Missouri)

To learn more about United Bowhunters of Missouri, visit their website at www.unitedbowhunters.com.

Affiliate Organizations Anglers of Missouri, Inc. Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Audubon Society of Missouri Bass Slammer Tackle Big Game Hunters, Inc. 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 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 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 Fishermenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Missouri Whitetails Unlimited Mule Deer Foundation North Side Division Conservation Federation Open Space Council of the Saint Louis Region Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc. Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club Ozarks Water Watchers 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 South Side Division Conservation Federation Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers St. Louis Audubon Society 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

MAY - 2017

CFM's 81st Annual Convention CFM's 81st Annual Convention a Huge Success

he Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) would like to thank everyone who made this year's convention a huge success.

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all of our sponsors for their financial support. We are grateful to those who traveled to share in the fun, fellowship and business of CFM again this year. There were 11 resolutions that were passed due to the hard work of the general assembly. CLC students gathered and continued their education of conservation legislation and practices throughout the weekend.

Many individuals were recognized for their outstanding conservation achievements at our Awards Ceremony. CFM Board Member and Past President, Glenn Chambers, was the recipient of the Master Conservationist Award presented by the Missouri Conservation Commission. A special thank you to our convention planning committee for all of their hard work and commitment and to everyone working behind the scenes for their task in pulling off this amazing event. Thank you to all who attended the 2017 annual convention. (Left) CFM Events Manager Michael Wardlaw sells gun raffle tickets to CFM Board Member Dan Zekor. (Right) CFM Board Member and Past President Mike Schallon and his mother Evelyn Schallon enjoy the Awards Ceremony. (Bottom Left) CFM Board President Ron Coleman poses with Key Drey and Susan Flader. (Bottom Right) 2017 Conservation Leadership Corps students. All photos by Emma Kessinger.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

1935 - 2016 Conservation Award Recipients

Outstanding Lifetime Achievement:

Air Conservationist:

LeRoy Braungardt, Moscow Mills

Rudi Roeslein, Saint Louis

Conservation Communicator:

Conservation Educator:

John Neporadny, Lake Ozark

Karen Richardson, Monett

Conservation Organization:

Forest Conservationist:

Missouri Prairie Foundation, Columbia

Brandon Kuhn, Licking

MAY - 2017

CFM's 81st Annual Convention

Hunter Education Instructor:

Professional Conservationist:

Terry Pollard, Jefferson City

Ken McCarty, Fulton

Soil Conservationist:

Water Conservationists:

John Hunter, Essex

Janet Fraley, Rolla & Randy Maness, Doniphan

Wildlife Conservationist:

Youth Conservationist:

St. Louis Zoo WildCare Institute, Saint Louis

Paul O'Donnell, Winona

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

1935 - 2016

Corporate Conservationist:

Conservation Legislator:

Pure Air Natives, Wentzville

Speaker of the House

Senator Dave Schatz,

Todd Richardson,

Sullivan

Poplar Bluff

Conservationists of the Year: Bob & Barb Kipfer, Springfield

Convention Resulted in 11 Conservation Resolutions 2017-1 Support Initiative Petition to Protect Missouri Deer from Chronic Wasting Disease 2017-2 CFM Position on CO2 Emissions 2017-3 Discourage the Use of Plastic Bags 2017-4 Preserve Presidential Authority under the Antiquities Act 2017-5 Deny Saint Louis County Request to Repurpose 40 Acres to Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park 2017-6 CFM Opposes Transfer of Ownership of Federal Lands to the State

2017-7 Invasive Plant Eradication and Education Policy 2017-8 Preservation of the EPA 2017-9 Keep the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Waters of the U.S. Ruleâ&#x20AC;? (tabled in General Assembly) 2017-10 Congress to Raise the CRP Acreage Cap 2017-11 Investigate Potential for lead Poisoning as a Result of Lost lead Fishing Tackle in Missouri Department of Conservation waterfowl Refuge Lakes, Marshes and Tributaries 2017-12 Protection of Prairie Pothole Region Wetlands MAY - 2017

Committed to Community & Conservation Owned by the members they serve, Missouriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Missouriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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Explore

KANSAS CITY ZOO

Over 200 acres of adventure filled with more than 1,700 animals to explore. Travel all over the world with a trip to the Kansas City Zoo. Meet Milo! Meet Masika!

Every visit you make to the Kansas City Zoo is a donation to conservation locally and globally. 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.

MAY - 2017

Feature Story

Katy Trail State Park A Missouri Gem

nterested in a half-hour stroll or a five-day bicycle journey across most of the state? Whatever you prefer, Katy Trail State Park can be your answer. The park is the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest rails-to-trails project, stretching between Machens and Clinton. There's enough variety to keep you interested with tree-shaded areas, open fields, impressive Missouri River bluffs and quaint communities along the way. With frequent trailheads and information about the areas you are visiting, the Katy has enough diversity, beauty and access for anyone. Katy Trail State Park offers a unique opportunity for people of all ages and interests. Whether you are a bicyclist, hiker, nature lover or history buff, the trail offers opportunities for recreation, a place to enjoy nature and an avenue to discover the past. Katy Trail State Park is built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad (better known as the Katy). When the railroad decided to cease operation on its route from Machens in St. Charles County to Sedalia in Pettis County in 1986, it presented the chance to create an extraordinary recreational opportunity -- a long-distance hiking and bicycling trail that would run almost 200 miles across the state. The opportunity for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to acquire the right-of-way was made possible by the National Trails System Act. Because of a generous donation by the late Edward D. "Ted" Jones, the department was able to secure the right-of-way and construct the trail.

A biker enjoys the trail at Katy Trail State Park. (Photo: Missouri State Parks)

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story In 1991, the Union Pacific Railroad donated to the state an additional 33 miles of rail corridor from Sedalia to east of Clinton. Additional purchases and donations have been added. Today, Katy Trail State Park is open for 240 miles from Machens to Clinton and is operated by the Department of Natural Resources as part of the state park system. The trail allows users to travel through some of the most scenic areas of the state. The majority of the trail closely follows the route of the Missouri River so hikers and bicyclists often find themselves with the river on one side and towering bluffs on the other. The trail travels through many types of landscapes including dense forests, wetlands, deep valleys, remnant prairies, open pastureland and gently rolling farm fields. Katy Trail State Park also takes users through a slice of rural history as it meanders through the small towns that once thrived along the railroad corridor. From the area known as "Missouri’s Rhineland" that portrays the heritage of the German migrants to the historic town of Rocheport that dates from before the Civil War, these towns reflect the rich heritage of Missouri. These communities make great places to stop and explore during a ride on the trail. Although the scenery often changes, the trail remains fairly level and constant as it meanders through the countryside. Trailheads, which provide parking areas and other amenities, are located periodically along the trail. Many communities also offer services to trail users. The section of trail between St. Charles and Boonville has been designated as an official segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, and the entire trail is part of the American Discovery Trail. The trail also has been designated as a Millennium Legacy Trail. For more information about the trail, call the Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946.

Article Courtesy of Missouri State Parks

2017 KATY TRAIL RIDE The 17th annual Katy Trail Ride, June 19-23 allows bicyclists to experience Katy Trail State Park from Clinton to St. Charles. Missouri State Parks and Missouri State Parks Foundation invite you to join them on this scenic five-day ride on the nation's longest developed and most popular rail trail. This year's ride covers approximately 230 miles of Katy Trail and features great food and many fun activities. Participation is limited to 350 people so register early to ensure your place on this scenic ride. Registrations will be accepted until May 1 or until the 350 maximum limit is reached.

FULL TOUR • Breakfast and dinner daily RIDERS • Outdoor camping spaces each night RECEIVE: • Camping locations:

o Sunday - Benson Convention Center, Clinton o Monday - Liberty Park, Sedalia o Tuesday - Kemper Park, Boonville o Wednesday - North Jefferson Recreation Area, Jefferson City o Thursday - Marthasville Community Club, Marthasville • Hot shower facilities daily • Gear shuttle • Detailed route map • SAG support • Katy Trail Ride t-shirt

ROUTE DAY 0 - Sunday, June 18 Clinton DETAILS:

DAY 1 - Monday, June 19 Clinton to Sedalia Approximately 39 miles DAY 2 - Tuesday, June 20 Sedalia to Boonville Approximately 37 miles DAY 3 - Wednesday, June 21 Boonville to Jefferson City Approximately 48 miles DAY 4 - Thursday, June 22 Jefferson City to Marthasville Approximately 65 miles DAY 5 - Friday, June 23 Marthasville to St. Charles Approximately 38 miles

To register visit www.mostateparks.com/2017ktride.

MAY - 2017

View our real estate listings at UnitedCountry.com

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.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

MISSOURI-BORN. MISSOURI-BASED. DIAMOND PET FOODS PROUDLY SUPPORTS ALL THOSE WHO HELP KEEP OUR STATE BEAUTIFUL.

Â©2016 SCHELL & KAMPETER, INC. DIAMOND, DIAMOND & DESIGN, DIAMOND NATURALS, TASTE OF THE WILD AND APPALACHIAN VALLEY ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS AND DIAMOND CARE AND THE TASTE OF THE WILD SEAL ARE TRADEMARKS OF SCHELL & KAMPETER, INC.

MAY - 2017

Feature Story

Goggle-eye: A Swamp Challenge

can still remember my first goggle-eye. I plunked a chunky minnow next to the gnarly roots of a huge swamp oak along the banks of a borrow pit at Big Oak Tree State Park in Mississippi County, Missouri. My bait disappeared as soon as it hit the water. Thoughts of big bass were the first thing to cross my mind, but the creature on my line went absolutely berserk. It ran this way, then that way, in circles and pulled like the dickens. I gasped when I flung the unusual looking fish into the bottom of our old cypress boat. The thickshouldered fish sported deep red eyes and a blackishgreen body with faint vertical stripes. Sharp spines stood up on its back. It looked meaner than a junkyard dog.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Reared in a fundamentalist religious family, my first impression of the demonic looking fish was that it came straight from hell. Long standing superstitions often mixed fervently with religious inclinations in the dark, dismal swamps of southeast Missouri and Arkansas. My head had been filled full of ideas about witches, haints, wampus cats, evil reptiles of the dark, tannin stained waters and spells that sometimes befell wayward souls. I distinctly remember the shiver that trickled up and down my spine when I first laid eyes on what I later discovered to be a goggle-eye, those evil looking red eyes and black cape spelled "Devil" to me. I hung the critter over the water and struggled to get my free hand into my jeans pocket to fetch my pocketknife. Trembling with fear, I flashed the blade and the vile creature returned to the darkness from which it had come.

Feature Story Upon telling my fishing tale to my Dad, he quickly admonished me for releasing one of the finest game fish in the swamps. "Dark, they are," he said. "But, the flesh is white and delicate and as good as it gets for eating. Keep anymore that you catch." If Dad said it, you could take it to the bank. Catching goggle-eye quickly became one of my favorite swamp fishing pursuits. The biggest problem with catching them proved to be the effort it took to get bait down into the tangles. However, the effort expended was always worth it because the one to one-and-a-half-pound goggle-eye I pulled from the swamps fought harder than any fish that swam the dark, cypress studded waters. The fun with goggle-eye really began once I discovered that they would smash a surface popper much like a bass. My favorite popper consisted of a short pencil popper in green and black. The hard bodied bait sported a colorful tail of feathers, but no rubber legs or other appendages. When I moved to the Ozark Mountains I discovered that goggle-eye thrived in clear, Ozark streams as well. I began chasing the scrappy fish on a regular basis. I found them in the darkest recesses, which usually meant rock piles, logjams and rootwads. A variety of natural baits will entice goggle-eye. Earthworms are a favorite of Ozarks inhabitants. Oscar Stacey, of Timber, Missouri, used to raise worms in a network of expertly crafted worm flats he housed in the basement of his home. He sold a few worms, but primarily used them himself, along with his family. "Worms can be hard to find in the hills, sometimes," he said. "I enjoy fooling with the worms and I like making sure my grandkids have plenty of bait for goggle-eye. It keeps them fishing." Rock rubble and boulders so common in Ozarks streams is great goggle-eye habitat. In these environs crayfish are a main item in the goggle-eye diet. Crayfish are readily available in most Ozark streams. A baited minnow trap, a small seine, hand net or bare hands can be used to capture the quick little crustaceans.

Small crayfish, about one to one-and a-halfinches in length are the perfect size. Several companies make plastic replicas of crayfish. YUM makes a twoand-one-halfinch CrawBug which is the deadliest bait I have ever used for goggle-eye. Rigged on a small jighead, they are the perfect bait for rocky areas.

Wading an Ozark stream for goggle-eye is a great way to spend a hot summer day. (Photo: Bill Cooper)

The Rebel Crawfish is a hard bodied crankbait that has been the undoing of many goggle-eyes as well. Rigged with treble hooks, it is tougher to fish in some areas that goggle-eye inhabit. In more open areas where the lure can be run by ambush points, it proves deadly. For thicker areas, a good tactic is to replace the treble hooks with a single hook. Whether you float in a canoe, wade or ride a bellyboat, goggle-eye fishing is downright fun. And skillet-fried goggle-eye fried over an open fire along the riverbank is a meal you will not soon forget.

Bill Cooper Goggle-eye, also known as the northern rock bass, are often found in the streams of the northern Ozarks, tributaries of the middle Mississippi, and a portion of the southwestern Ozarks. (Photo: MDC)

MAY - 2017

Agency News

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION MDC Encourages People to Be Bear Aware As black bears leave their winter dens, finding food is their main focus. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds people to "Be Bear Aware" by not feeding bears and not providing potential sources of food.

Avoid attracting black bears: • Don't leave pet food outside. • Store garbage, recyclables, and compost inside until trash pick-up. • Keep grills and smokers clean and store inside. • Don't use birdfeeders April through November. • Use electric fencing to keep bears away from food sources. • Keep campsites clean. Store all food, toiletries and trash in a vehicle.

A FED BEAR IS A DEAD BEAR

While close encounters are uncommon, when outdoors: • Make noise while walking or hiking to prevent surprising a bear. • Travel in a group. • Pay attention to the surroundings and watch for signs of bear. • Keep dogs leashed. • Leave bear alone. • If encountering a bear up close, back away slowly with arms raised to look larger. Speak in a calm, loud voice. Do not turn away from the bear. Do not run.

"When bears lose their MDC encourages people to Be Bear fear of people, they may Aware. Don't feed bears. Avoid approach people in search encounters. React right. (Photo: of food or may defend the MDC) food sources or territory they associate with people, which can make them dangerous," said Laura Conlee, a resource scientist and black-bear researcher with MDC. "When this happens, the bear has to be destroyed."

MDC and CFM Thank Deer Hunters for Sharing the Harvest The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) thank the 4,280 Missouri deer hunters who donated 198,277 pounds of venison to the Share the Harvest program this past deer season. The donated deer meat will help feed hungry Missourians.

The packaged venison is then given to food banks and food pantries for distribution to Missourians in need of food assistance. Since the program was started in 1992, it has provided about 3.7 million pounds of lean, healthy venison.

Donated venison is packaged and prepared for donation. (Photo: MDC)

Share the Harvest is coordinated by MDC and CFM. Deer hunters donate their extra venison to participating meat processors throughout the state who grind the deer meat into one-pound packages.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Processing fees are covered entirely or in part by numerous local sponsors, along with statewide sponsors that include: MDC, CFM, Shelter Insurance, Bass Pro Shops, Missouri Chapter Safari Club International, Missouri Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation, Midway USA Inc., Missouri Food Banks Association, United Bowhunters of Missouri, Missouri Trappers Association, the Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association, and the Wal-Mart Foundation.

Agency News

MDC Offers New Permit Card for Hunters, Anglers, and Trappers Beginning April 1, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer Missouri hunters, anglers, and trappers its new Permit Card as an additional way of carrying and showing proof of most related permits. The new plastic cards are another option to MDC’s paper and electronic permits. As new permits are purchased and old ones expire, the updated information is automatically accessible through the one-time-purchase cards. Conservation agents can scan users’ cards to verify active permits. Permit Card buyers can customize their cards by selecting from four nature-inspired background images: bass, buck, mallard duck, or bluebird. Permit users can buy the new Permits Cards for a onetime fee of $2 online at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits, from permit vendors around the state, or through the MDC MO Hunting and MO Fishing free mobile apps.

The new Permit Card cannot be used as a form of permit proof for deer and turkey hunting, as proof of daily trout tags, or to show possession of a Federal Duck Stamp. It does not replace commercial permits and lifetime permits.

Buyers of MDC’s new plastic Permit Card can customize their cards by selecting from four nature-inspired background images: bass, buck, mallard duck, or bluebird. (Photo: MDC)

The Permit Card replaces the existing Heritage Card. Existing Heritage Cards will still be valid for hunter-education verification, purchasing permits and discounts, but will not be legal as a permit. Permit Card holders receive a 15% discount on merchandise purchased at MDC facilities and through the online Nature Shop. MDC Hunter Education graduates will receive Permit Cards at no additional cost.

Conservation and Agriculture Groups Renew Partnerships to Eliminate Feral Hogs Partnerships between the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), conservation groups, agriculture organizations, and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) forge ahead Feral hogs damage a pristine spring in with the approval of a Ozark County.. (Photo: MDC) grant from the MCHF to provide the state's feral hog strike team with additional trapping equipment. The MCHF grant includes $79,500 and an additional in-kind contribution in the form of labor and equipment equaling a total of $132,900. The grant will provide 60 additional traps, building materials and trail cameras for the feral hog strike team to assist landowners.

Feral hogs are not wildlife and are a serious threat as they’ve expanded their range in the U.S. over the past 30 years. Their populations grow rapidly because feral hogs can breed any time of year and produce two litters of one to seven piglets every 12 to 15 months. Economic loss from feral hog damage is estimated at more than 1.5 billion dollars per year. They damage property, agriculture, and natural resources by their aggressive rooting of soil in addition to their trampling and consumption of crops as part of their daily search for food. Feral hogs are also known to carry diseases, which are a threat to Missouri agriculture and human health. By reporting hog sightings, landowners can receive assistance in trapping the full sounder of feral hogs on their land. For more information on feral hogs in Missouri, or to report a sighting, go online to mdc. mo.gov/feralhog.

MAY - 2017

Feature Story

Mastodon Tusk Receives Some Loving Care

he 8-foot-long mastodon tusk on display at Mastodon State Historic Site looks almost good as new, even though it’s more than 10,000 years old.

The tusk recently returned to the museum at the state historic site after a six-month stay at the Saint Louis Science Center’s Fossil Lab, where it was cleaned and stabilized. “The tusk was fairly brown, and it looks very white now,” said Brooke Mahar, interpretative resource specialist at the state historic site. “It’s just normal for an ivory tusk to need conservation work eventually because they’re fairly fragile.”

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

The tusk was uncovered during an emergency excavation in 1976 after prehistoric bones were dug up during construction of a car dealership in Barnhart, which is not far from the famous Kimmswick Bone Bed. Archaeologists, both amateur and professional, had been digging at the bone bed since the early 1800s, recovering evidence of animals that lived during the Ice Age and were drawn to the site for its mineral springs. When developers sought to buy the important archaeological site, a grass-roots effort raised funds to buy the bed and it became a state park in 1976, and later the Mastodon State Historic Site. There currently are no excavations at the site and the remnants of the bone beds are buried for preservation.

Feature Story The bone bed made scientific headlines when excavations in 1979 and 1980 yielded spear points found next to mastodon bones, giving hard evidence that mastodons were hunted by humans. That relationship was confirmed later at other archeological digs, but it came first at the Kimmswick Bone Bed, earning the site recognition on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum at the state historic site has a central diorama that depicts a full-size mastodon skeleton near the figures of three Paleo-Indians. That skeleton, however, is a replica and its two tusks are casts made of fiberglass. “We’ve got other fragmented tusks from babies and juveniles,” Mahar said. “But this is the only one that’s whole.”

A Close-up Look at Science Brian Thomas, Senior Educator at the Science Center’s Fossil Prep Lab, said the lab has worked on mastodon teeth and a jaw, but this was the first intact tusk. The lab, however, is accustomed to handling much older fossils.

“Our production department also made a brand new mount so the tusk is oriented in the case differently than it was,” Thomas said. “Visitors can see more of the underside and its stands more natural now.” The Fossil Lab is a popular attraction at the Science Center, and allows for a close-up look at how restoration is done on prehistoric bones. “Unlike 99 percent of fossils labs in the world, visitors can walk right into our lab,” Thomas said. “The idea is to ignite and inspire an interest in science by watching real science being done. Right now, we’re working on a mastodon jaw and part of a Triceratops skull.”

Crazy Housewives Mastodon State Historic Site, which has three hiking trails in addition to the handsome museum, owes its existence largely to four women who fought to buy the site and turn it over to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for a park. Of the four, only Marilyn King is still alive, and is still active as a volunteer at the state historic site. Dorothy Heinze, Hazel Lee and Rita Naes are deceased.

“The tusk is only about 14,000 years old, so it’s in the earliest stages of fossilization,” Thomas said. “To put in it perspective, we’ve studied dinosaur fossils that are, on average, 67 million years old.”

In an interview at the site, King recalled how the women refused to give up, pestering state officials until the land was secured.

The first task, Thomas said, was to remove work that was done on the 100-pound tusk after it initially was discovered. Those early efforts were believed to have been done by a high school teacher and a student.

“They’d say, ‘Oh no, here comes those crazy housewives again,” King said. “We had tailgate sales, bake sales, walks, dinner dances, bumper stickers and collection cans with ‘Save the Mastodons’ on it.”

“It was originally prepared in the late 1970s and they used techniques and material fossil preparers no longer use today,” Thomas said. “All the materials I use are modern-day epoxies and polymers meant for this type of work.

Brooke Mahar, an interpretive resource specialist at the state historic site, said the work of the four women in publicizing the value of the finds at the Kimmswick Bone Bed was important in saving the tusk found during construction of the Barnhart car dealership.

“I removed layers of what more than likely was Elmer’s glue. In areas where there wasn’t any ivory, it was painted tan. We removed that and touched it up with white paint that is made for this type of application.” The tusk had some stains from the iron in the soil where it was found. Those stains were removed with special chemicals, and the tusk now appears much brighter.

“They basically said come get it, or it’s going to get paved over,” Mahar said. For more information, visit mostateparks.com. Tom Uhlenbrock Missouri State Parks A full-size mastodon skeleton is a replica, with tusks made of fiberglass. (Photo: Missouri State Parks)

MAY - 2017

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Outdoor News

Saving the Panamanian Golden Frog

n 2015, the Kansas City Zoo's newly formed PAW (Passion and Action for Wildlife) Conservation Program awarded funding to eight projects. Four of the eight projects were dedicated to amphibians: participation in the Amphibian Allies program, monitoring for chytrid fungus in local frogs and toads, assisting in the breeding and reintroduction of the Wyoming toad (Bufo baxteri) back into its native environment, and the rearing and research of Titicaca water frogs (Telmatobius celeus) in Bolivia. This year, a small group of zookeepers saw an opportunity to expand on the zoo's commitment to amphibian conservation, and that opportunity lies in a closet. In the lower level of the Zoo's kid-friendly Discovery Barn, nestled within a busy play area, is a small 7' x 7.5' closet. Dusty and half-filled with supplies, this limited space did not seem to hold many possibilities outside of a storage area. But for amphibians, limited spaces can hold a world of potential. Entire populations of endangered frogs and toads can live and breed in less space than is required to care for just a single member of a Zoo's more alluring megafauna. And with the current amphibian extinction crisis sweeping the planet, arguably no other group of animals stands more to gain from Zoo conservation than amphibians. With this knowledge, our dusty closet had a vision of becoming more. It became the ideal location to set up a breeding program for our beautiful Panamanian golden frogs (Atelopus zeteki). The Panamanian golden frog is the national animal of Panama and for good reason. They are a brilliant golden color, thought to bring good luck, and not only live in wet rain forests, butalso in the dry cloud forests of the Cordilleran Mountains of Panama.

A Panamanian Golden Frog (Photo: Kansas City Zoo)

They secrete toxins that are so potent and unique that scientists have defined the Panamanian golden frog as a distinct species. Unfortunately for the Panamanian golden frog, the species is now considered extinct in the wild. There have been many contributing factors to this frogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s demise including illegal pet trade and habitat destruction, but the spread of chytrid fungus is what ultimately destroyed the Panamanian golden frog wild populations. With luck and preparation, the team is optimistic that the number of Panamanian golden frogs at present will increase dramatically. And with each success, and realistically some failures, the team is confident that the increased knowledge and skill sets will grow to the level needed to breed and maintain the species. You can visit the Panamanian golden frog in the amphibian ark in the Kansas City Zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Discovery Barn. Release Courtesy of The Kansas City Zoo

MAY - 2017

Feature Story

Public Land Bobs: An Exercise in Expectations Part Two of Two

e moved through the field and our dogs worked; noses high and feet fast. Dave and I talked about quail hunting and what we hope to have happen in the future. He also explained how the Aguila shells we were using were perfect round for 28 gauges, as it has ¾ oz load in a .550 bore (28 gauge), which is ideal for proper distribution of shot. This is also the standard 28 gauge load you’d buy off the shelves, which is another advantage the 28 gauge has over other gauges.

Our conversation was cut short, because within fifteen minutes, I heard Annie’s SportDOG Brand GPS collar sound off, meaning she’d gone on point. A covey of quail was within fifteen yards of her and she could smell them hidden somewhere in the clumps of grass. While I am not the earliest adopter to technology, SportDOG Brand’s track and train TEK series collar give pointing dog owners the confidence of knowing exactly where your dog is at all times, which is invaluable in hunting new habitat. Annie stands next to a quail after a great hunt. (Photo: Rehan Nana)

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story Following the GPS, we moved up to where Annie stood motionless, pointing. Somewhere within 15 yards of her was a covey of quail, hidden in the clumps of grass. What happened next, the covey flush, is almost indescribable if you have never seen it firsthand. Try to imagine 20 baseball-sized birds exploding at 40mph in every direction and a distinct “WHIRL!!!” of forty-wing fluttering at once. I shouldered the 628, pulled the trigger and waited.

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SPORTDOG SportDOG Brand was the first to combine BRAND TEK GPS with e-collar training. Now, with Tek 2.0LT 2.0 technology, tracking and training is more reliable and accurate than ever.

“Fetch it up, Annie!” It all came together so quickly. As I was taking in the moment, Annie was running back with a Missouri trophy - a bobwhite quail from public land. No horns, no beards, no pounds or inches; just a drab little bird calling the prairie its home.

Features • Up to 10 Miles Range Using HopTek Technology • DryTEK Collar ReceiverWaterproof and Submersible up to 25ft. Waterproof Handheld • 1:100,000 Preloaded Topo Maps • Unlimited Lifetime Map Updates • Collar Receiver Has 24 Hours Battery Life at 3 Second Update Rate • Tracks Up to 21 Collars/Handhelds

A few years ago this story may have ended here, but not today. We kept hunting and we kept finding birds. Nearly a hundred yards after the first covey, Dave connected on another covey, and I picked up another single. On that property, we found four coveys of quail in less than two hours. This is unheard of in most quail hunting parts of the country. Later that day, we hunted on an MDC quail emphasis area.

Find more at www.sportdog.com.

The day ended with a bag full of birds, tired dogs, and optimism for the future public land quail hunting. Hunts like that don’t just happen. It takes countless hours of work from countless numbers of people. It’s programs like MRAP, Quail Emphasis Areas, the work of MDC, private landowners, conservation groups all do to put habitat on the ground and access within hunters’ reach. Furthermore, businesses like CZUSA, SportDOG Brand, and many others who support conservation missions make stories like this possible. Now another quail hunting season is over. I think that while quail recovery still has a long way to go, the birds are back on the right track. When describing quail hunting I used to say, “Gone are the five covey days on public ground, so as bird hunters we need to re-evaluate our expectations.” After this season, I noticed I’ve now started to say, “Gone are the two covey days on public ground, so as bird hunters we can re-evaluate our expectations.” Read the full article at: confedmo.org/public-landbobs-an-exercise-in-expectations. Rehan Nana Director of Corporate Relations, CFM

CZ-USA 628M 28 GUAGE PUMP

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AGUILA 28 When it comes to GAUGE performance, Aguila

shotshells never let up. They’re engineered for unequaled dependability shot after shot. With a ¾ oz load, the shells produce a 1,275 ft/sec velocity.

MAY - 2017

Feature Story

Conservation Today

Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifecycle is cruel. A coyote chases a rabbit to survive. A rabbit running from a coyote is trying not to die a cruel death. The rabbit might reach cover and the coyote will spend a cold winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s night hungry and the rabbit will freeze all night from burning calories to escape.

his is a sample of life and survival in the woods, possibly taking place a few hundred yards from your warm homes. Life and death for survival has existed since the beginning of time. Creatures manage to survive until unexpected circumstances take over, enter humans. Man is likely the worst enemy of creatures and this is not a reference to legal hunting. But human practices are often the greatest reason for needing sound conservation practices.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

For example, various types of waterfowl became low in numbers during the market hunting days from 1840 to1920. Opportunists used bow mounted punt guns or batteries comprised of eight-gauge or tengauge shotguns bound together and triggered off at the same time by one trigger pull. The hunter lay low on the small sneak boat, drifted close to a flock and set off the storm of lead buckshot that sometimes killed up to 30 birds, 10 to 15 were more realistic and no doubt some wounded escaped.

Feature Story Others hid in layout blinds or blinds similar to today in great hunting areas where 200 or 300 ducks were killed. Some did this for a living and harvested big numbers of waterfowl almost daily, a great strain on waterfowl and an even greater reason why we have strict limits set annually in accordance with waterfowl numbers. “Today’s popular paradigm is that humans are the cause of all animal extinctions,” said Ron Spomer, veteran outdoor communicator and conservationist. “In recent centuries we have swarmed the Earth, crushing to oblivion passenger pigeons, dodo birds, Labrador ducks and ivory-billed woodpeckers that once existed in good numbers.” The American bison is another good example. This beautiful creature almost went extinct in 1890. Hide hunters killed these creatures and left tons of delicious meat on the prairie to rot instead of feeding Native American tribes or anyone that needed food. A strong market for thick hides with dense fur made hunters return to the prairie to shoot another wagon load. Only scavengers that picked bones clean to whiten in the sun won this battle. But make no mistake; Mother Nature takes her toll on wildlife. “Nature ,too, has always killed her own with heartless, reckless abandon,” Spomer said. “Floods, fires, drought, volcanoes, blizzards, sub-zero temperatures and ordinary, everyday predation can be cruel. Ignoring all this wasn’t a big problem 1,000 years ago. Humans didn't have to meddle or manage because much of the word was still wild. There was enough connectivity between natural, wild habitats to absorb disasters. Still abundant animals from outside of disaster areas could filter in and repopulate.” But civilization arrived and wildlife adapted, relocated or perished. We have plenty of fringe animals that live within sight of homes and even towns. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) monitors wildlife and the welfare of each species. A dip in population for hunting or fishing species is addressed through seasonal legal limits. For example, a sudden shortage of whitetail deer would partly be addressed by shortened seasons and possibly lowering legal limits of animals harvested.

This is a battery where black powder barrels were loaded and set off at one time, killing many waterfowl. (Photo: Courtesy of Upper Bay Museum)

The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) is our conservation watchdogs. Much of the positive conservation legislation in Missouri today exists because of their work. CFM is not a branch of state government, but a private organization made up of thousands of Missourians who work together to better our natural resources, and represents Missouri’s citizen conservationists. Actively involved in state and national issues that relate to conservation, CFM has long been a prominent and effective voice before the Missouri general assembly, MDC and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. “The members of CFM are the conscience of hunters, fishermen, foresters, campers, trappers, hikers, paddlers, birdwatchers and more,” said Brandon Butler, executive director. “CFM speaks for sportsmen and sportswomen whenever and wherever it is necessary to support our collective opinions on the future of Missouri outdoors.” So if you hunt, fish or love wildlife, remember to support all forms of conservation through contributions to CFM, no amount is too small or too large. An ounce of prevention today means your grandchildren will someday be rewarded with the quality outdoor opportunities we enjoy. Kenneth Kieser (Left) A goose flies high in the Missouri skies. (Photo: Kenneth Kieser)

MAY - 2017

Outdoor News

MDC Congratulates Glenn Chambers on Prestigious Award

he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) congratulates Glenn Chambers of Columbia on recently receiving the Department’s Master Conservationist Award for over four decades of awardwinning conservation work. The award was presented on March 10 during the annual award ceremony of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). The MDC Master Conservationist Award honors living or deceased citizen conservationists, former MDC commissioners, and employees of conservation related agencies, universities, or organizations who have made substantial and lasting contributions to the fisheries, forestry, or wildlife resources of the state. Chambers is the 60th recipient of the award, which was first presented in 1942. "The Missouri Conservation Commission is delighted to present the Master Conservationist Award to Glenn D. Chambers. His contributions are inspirational, tremendously varied, and of enduring value to all Missourians," said Commission Chair David W. Murphy. MDC Director Sara Pauley added, “Glenn is one of those special individuals that once you meet him, you never forget him. His boundless energy, passion, and infectious positive attitude make a difference in all that he does. We are blessed that his commitment to the conservation of Missouri’s fish, forests, and wildlife benefits not only nature, but all Missourians.” Chambers began his career with MDC as an area manager and research scientist before assuming the dual role of biologist/cinematographer. In 1974, he was promoted to motion picture specialist and produced feature-length, award-winning motion pictures including Return of the Wild Turkey and Wild Chorus. Chambers left MDC to work for Ducks Unlimited as a regional director and later as its corporate wildlife photographer before returning to MDC in 1989 to resume his role as a motion picture specialist until his retirement in 1995. Upon retirement, Chambers continued to work with MDC to present live river otter programs to schools and audiences around the state. For13 years, he and his wife, Jeannie, traveled over 800,000 miles with the otters and reached over one million people. They retired the otters and discontinued the road trips in 2005.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Glenn Chambers holds his award at CFM's Annual Awards Ceremony in Jefferson City. (Photo: Emma Kessinger)

Chambers’ cinematographic work garnered a long list of television and motion picture awards, including four television Emmy awards for an MDC video entitled Glenn and His Geese and his 1998 film Back to the Wild. He also received numerous awards for his photographs, including those from the Outdoor Writers of America Association. His work has appeared regularly in magazines and other publications and is published in five languages. Photographic exhibits featuring his work have been displayed at the Department of Interior and were included in a traveling exhibit with the prestigious Smithsonian Institute. Articles written by Chambers have appeared in the Journal of Wildlife Management, Ducks Unlimited magazine, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service bulletins, and a host of other state conservation agency magazines and bulletins. As president of CFM, Chambers recently accepted the highest honor awarded by the National Wildlife Federation, the National Conservation Achievement Award. This came largely for the success of CFM’s Conservation Leadership Corps program. Under Chambers’ leadership, CFM engages high school and college students to help prepare and nurture them as tomorrow’s conservation leaders. Chambers is also the first Missourian to receive the William T. Hornaday Gold Medal from the Boy Scouts of America. He received this lifetime achievement award for environmental conservation in 2014.

Joe Jerek Statewide News Services Coordinator, MDC

Outdoor News

Book Review: The Natural Heritage of Illinois

hen I learned that John Schwegman had published a book on Illinois’ natural heritage, I was eager to see it. I have known Schwegman since my early career with the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, and had worked with him often. He was the head of the state’s Natural Areas Program within the Department of Conservation (now Department of Natural Resources). He is also a founding member and past president of the Natural Areas Association. I came to regard Schwegman as an expert botanist and all around fine naturalist — the type of person that I could learn something from on any shared outing. Schwegman’s book met my expectations. It is a compilation of 93 nature essays written over four years for serial publication. The essays are aimed to appeal to nontechnical readers in Illinois and beyond. Most of the essays are equally applicable to Missouri, since our states share many of the same natural communities, wildlife, plants, and climatic history. The topics are wide-ranging and include early historic accounts of the landscape, natural communities, conservation and management, exotic species and new plant and animal diseases, native animals, and native plants. All of the essays reflect a personal understanding of the topic gleaned from both scholarship and observation. They often offer suggestions to the reader on how to explore the topics further. Many essays are about the Midwest’s prairie heritage, including sections on conducting a prairie burn, fire and wildflowers, pollination, prairie grasses, big bluestem, the prairie-chicken crisis, sunflowers, and the decline of grassland birds.

Schwegman’s essay on “Wildlife Watching from Trees” talks about the many interesting things that one sees while waiting in a deer stand. This reminded me of many wonderful nature encounters of mine that happened only by spending hours silent and alert in the woods. His essay on milkweed pollination included detailed instructions on how to look closely at a flower and understand all of the parts and how they contribute to the plant’s pollination. This includes how to expose the milkweed pollinia from the flower with a toothpick. The Natural Heritage of Illinois is a kind of handbook for better appreciation of our outdoor heritage. The book was a good winter read, just what I needed to help get me through the short, cold days and to anticipate the many natural experiences that await as the earth awakens. *This book review first appeared in the spring 2017 issue of the Missouri Prairie Journal, Vol. 38 No. 1.

Rick Thom Missouri Prairie Foundation Technical Advisor

MAY - 2017

Feature Story

April Showers Bring May Flowers

any wildflowers are minuscule and go unnoticed, such as glade buttercups, button weed and fog fruit; but the closer one looks at nature the more awesome it becomes. Under the examination at full macro, or with the aid of a magnifying glass, details of the most minute, intricate designs begin to mimic the beauty of the cosmos.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Some years ago, my game bag and creel reached an accumulative overflow, plus, to my surprise, I reached a â&#x20AC;&#x153;ripe old age,â&#x20AC;? and I slowed enough to literally smell the roses. The wild roses, that is. About this time, I invested in my first high-quality macro lens and started looking for things to magnify and record.

Feature Story Tiny blooms were marvelous models, and once I started hunting them, I was enamored by the number, delighted by the diversity and intrigued by the intricate beauty that theretofore had escaped my gaze. No telling how many I unwittingly trampled during the decades of my other diversions. Just in Missouri, botanists have identified 2,372 different species of wildflowers. As an amateur, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve photographed and identified over 500 of them and have over 250 unidentified images, including many too small, I suppose, to make it into guide books. Finding, identifying and photographing them is a engrossing hobby similar to birding, except that probably hundreds of species of wildflowers are within a leisurely stroll through the forests and fields all over the state. To identify them, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve relied primarily on two guide books. One is Missouri Wildflowers, by Edgar Denison. The other is Wildflowers and Ferns of Kentucky, by Thomas G. Barnes and S. Wilson Francis. These days I appreciate April showers, because I know they bring May flowers. May is the most prolific month for wildflowers, but the season starts in late January/ early February, with the aptly named harbinger of spring. There is a secret world of wonderment to be uncovered in the under story; the breath of creation. Ron Kruger

(Top) Tall Beard-tongue, Penstermon digitalis. (Photo: Ron Kruger)

(Top) Bee on Tall Belflower. (Photo: Ron Kruger)

(Left) Crown Vetch, Securigera varia. (Photo: Ron Kruger)

(Bottom Right) Yellow Clintonia, Clintonia borealis. (Photo: Ron Kruger) (Bottom Left) Virginia Buttonweed, Diodia Virginiana. Each bloom is less than one-half-inch wide. (Photo: Ron Kruger)

MAY - 2017

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

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Feature Story

Birds that Love Nectar

eotropical songbird migration peaks in Missouri at the end of April and into the first part of May. Not only are these birds known for their cheerful songs, but also for their jewel-tone brilliant colors. Many of these species have traveled thousands of miles and are looking for something sweet to eat. These are the birds that seek out nectar that can be readily converted into fat, which provides the fuel for migration.

A good place to find a Baltimore Oriole is in the cascading white flowers of black locust trees or the stately flowers of the tulip poplar. Tulip poplars and Baltimore Orioles were even the subject of one of John James Audubon's famous lithographs. These trees are favored not just by Orioles, but also bees for the prolific nectar they produce. A 20-foot tulip polar can produce eight pounds of nectar (which would make four pounds of honey).

While there are several species that will eat nectar from time to time, the birds best known for this in Missouri are the Baltimore Oriole and the Rubythroated hummingbird. Both of these birds move into southern Missouri around the end of April and show up in the northern parts of the state around the first of May, feeding on blooming trees, shrubs, and other plants along the way.

In contrast, black locust nectar production is more weather dependent and varies year to year. The honey from black locust trees is light and often in demand for its pleasing floral fragrance. When you come upon a good spot of blooming trees, look close at the birds in the treetops. Orchard Orioles, American Redstarts, and some of the warbler species could also be enjoying the nectar of these trees.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story Hummingbirds are known for their love of red flowers. Interestingly this is not because they are attracted to the color red, but rather because nectarfeeding insects such as bees, wasps and butterflies find pale-colored flowers more easily; hence, red flowers are visited by insects less frequently. Hummingbirds have learned this leaves more nectar for them. Spring-blooming flowers for hummingbirds include red buckeye, coral honeysuckle, and trumpet creeper. There is a payoff for plants as well, because hummingbirds are effective pollinators. It is estimated up to 19 species of plants in the eastern United States co-evolved with hummingbirds and rely on them for much of their pollination services. Both Ruby-throated hummingbirds and Baltimore Orioles will stay and nest in yards across Missouri. After migration they will rely on insects for their diets and to feed their young. The trees, shrubs, and other plants they depended on for nectar to provide energy during migration are also often great host plants for insects. For instance, the tiger swallowtail butterfly caterpillar eats the leaves of tulip poplars. Clearwing sphinx moth caterpillars feed on coral honeysuckle. Native plants not only attract migrant birds to your yard, but they will also support them from migration through raising their young and into their migration back south. These plants that have been part of the ecosystem in Missouri for thousands of years and provide nectar, insects, seeds, and berries to sustain bird populations throughout the seasons. Planting a diversity of native plant species will turn your yard into a vibrant habitat for birds. For more information on native trees and other plants, and where to buy them, go to grownative.org. Mary Nemecek Conservation Chair of Burroughs Audubon Baltimore Orioles rely on nectar from blooming trees such as black locust and tulip poplar to fuel their migration north in the spring. (Photo: Linda Williams)

BALTIMORE ORIOLES HABITAT Usually seen foraging in trees in open areas, such as those in parks, backyards, farms, woodlands, and along riverfront forests. As with all migrating birds, this species requires appropriate habitat in both summer (nesting) territories and wintering groundsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;as well as all the lands they migrate over.

FOOD Baltimore orioles feed in trees, searching for caterpillars, beetles, fruit, and flower nectar. Orioles come to nectar feeders and will consume the pulp of oranges cut in half. During winter (when the orioles are in Central America), they drink mostly nectar from flowers.

LIFECYCLE Finding an oriole's nest in summer isn't easy. Hidden in the upper branches of a tall maple or elm, the nest looks like a gray basket, woven of milkweed silk, plant fibers, and hair. Baltimore orioles nest throughout the eastern U.S. and into Canada, then migrate south for winter. Wintering habitat includes scattered trees and woodland borders from Mexico to Colombia and Venezuela.

STATUS Uncommon summer resident. You may see this bird listed in some field guides as the "northern oriole," because taxonomists had, for a time, considered the Baltimore oriole (of the eastern US) and the very similar Bullock's oriole (of the west) as merely two "forms" or "races" of the same species, and grouped both together under the name "northern oriole." For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov.

MAY - 2017

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Feature Story

Celebrating Missouri’s Natural Legacy

hen people think of Missouri, perhaps they conjure up images of the Arch in St. Louis, Union Station in Kansas City or championship winning baseball teams. These cultural icons make up part of what makes Missouri unique as a state. But of course a deeper heritage occurs here in the Show-Me State founded in the very geology, soils, plants, animals and streams that still remain in some semblance to the patterns that have occurred on this spot on earth for thousands of years. Missouri is blessed with a rich natural heritage. While only covering about 2 percent of the landmass of the continental United States, Missouri ranks 21st in the nation in the number of native plants and animals that live here. More species of native plants are found here than in all of Alaska.

(Top) St. Francois Mountains Natural Area. Credit: Pat Whalen. (Photo: MDC) (Right) St. Francis River Natural Area. Credit: David Stonner (Photo: MDC)

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Missouri boasts some of the largest freshwater springs in the world, and nearly 17,000 miles of streams and rivers flow through the state. It’s little wonder that Missouri ranks ninth in the nation in the number of native fish species that ply our waters. A number of species, such as the Caney Mountain cave crayfish and the bluestripe darter, are found only in Missouri. In 1970, Bill Crawford, then Wildlife Research Superintendent with the Missouri Department of Conservation (and also co-founder of the Missouri Prairie Foundation and recipient of the Department’s Master Conservationist award) worked with other Department staff to prepare a natural areas policy that was then adopted by the Conservation Commission. Famed wildlife artist Charlie Schwartz designed the jack-in-the-pulpit logo for the new program.

Feature Story Then in 1977 another group of forward-thinking biologists working for the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources decided to formally work together in a partnership to identify and preserve the last and best examples of the state’s prairies, forests, woodlands, savannas, glades, wetlands and caves as designated state Natural Areas to be “permanently protected or managed for the purpose of preserving their natural qualities.” They laid the ground work for what today has become the Missouri Natural Areas System of 188 special places totaling 85,767 acres of lands and waters that are key pieces of Missouri’s natural heritage. These places like Ava Glades, Blue Spring, Diamond Grove Prairie, Jacks Fork, Mingo, St. Francois Mountains and Stegall Mountain Natural Areas exemplify Missouri’s unique natural heritage. Today Missouri Natural Areas are recognized by a partnership, the Missouri Natural Areas Committee, consisting of its original members, the Conservation Department and the Department of Natural Resources, along with the Mark Twain National Forest, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, and The Nature Conservancy.

Missouri Natural Areas are not Wilderness Areas. Today, many Natural Areas require some form of active management due to the disruption of natural disturbances such as fire, and due to the introduction of non-native invasive species such as bush honeysuckle. Prescribed fire, thinning, exotic species control, and restoring hydrologic function are all tools used to restore and maintain the area’s ecological integrity.

Keeping All the Pieces

Missouri Natural Areas belong to Missourians. There are 85,336 acres of Missouri Natural Areas open to public access. All of these places provide opportunities to hike, bird, do nature photography, learn about natural history, or just enjoy the scenery. Nearly all are open to fishing if they have a stream, and 60% of Missouri Natural Areas are open to some form of hunting. There are 105 miles of hiking trails and 23 miles of multi-use trails (e.g., biking and hiking), including 16 miles of the Ozark Trail. There are also 56 miles of floatable stream reaches that border or bisect a Natural Area.

The famous conservationist Aldo Leopold wrote, “to keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering.” Leopold was referring to keeping all the native species of our varied habitats. Habitat conservation is key to protecting rare species and keeping common species common. Missouri Natural Areas account for just 0.2% of Missouri’s land mass and yet they account for a large share of the state’s natural heritage resources, ranging from alligator snapping turtles to rare orchids. Missouri’s Natural Areas conserve high-quality natural communities – groupings of native plants and animals and their associated soils, topography, and geology – ranging from deep soil prairies to rocky glades and murky swamps. Missouri Natural Areas are also important reservoirs of native pollinator species including native bees and butterflies. These sites are valuable as reference sites for scientific studies and as seed sources for natural community restoration and reconstruction efforts on degraded lands.

Natural Areas are Yours to Explore

Regardless of your outdoor pursuit, you are likely to find a rewarding experience on a Missouri Natural Area. Plan your visit or to learn more about Missouri Natural Areas, visit nature.mdc.mo.gov/ discover-nature/places/natural-areas. A Conservation Department publication, Discover Missouri Natural Areas: A Guide to 50 Great Places, is also available at conservation nature centers statewide or visit mdcnatureshop.com to order online. Mike Leahy Missouri Department of Conservation MAY - 2017

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MAY - 2017

Feature Story

Wonders of Wildlife Opening this September

national celebration is planned with commemorative events honoring positive conservation impact of hunters and anglers.

Johnny Morris, founder/CEO of Bass Pro Shops and leading conservationist, in partnership with noted conservation partners from around the world, today announced the all-new Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri will celebrate its grand opening on National Hunting & Fishing Day, September 21, 2017. Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium will be the largest, most immersive fish and wildlife attraction in the world.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

“I am proud and excited that this special facility dedicated to those who love the outdoors will open in the heart of America in our hometown, Springfield, Missouri,” said Johnny Morris. “We are deeply grateful to the many remarkably talented individuals and world-class conservation organizations that have come together for the past nine years to help make this vision a reality,” continued Morris. “It is our shared hope that the tremendous investment of time, energy and resources will have a profound, positive long-term impact on the future of hunting, fishing and conservation in America.”

Feature Story “Wonders of Wildlife has the opportunity, like no other attraction before it, to have a positive national impact on wildlife and conservation,” said Colin O’Mara, President and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation, a key partner organization. “Johnny’s investment in this not-for-profit facility through the Johnny Morris Foundation will establish one of the most valuable and respected conservation and education centers in the world.” Wonders of Wildlife consists of an all-new 1.5-million-gallon aquarium adventure showcasing 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles and birds, and an immersive wildlife museum that brings visitors eyeto-eye with the greatest collection of record-setting game animals ever assembled. Located adjacent to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, the 320,000-square foot experience celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water. In conjunction with the grand opening a national conservation summit will highlight a series of celebrations and commemorative events with leading conservation partners, special guests and dignitaries from across the nation. The events will honor the positive role hunters and anglers play in wildlife conservation and help inspire the next generation of outdoor stewards.

Historic Date National Hunting and Fishing Day honors the most effective grassroots efforts ever undertaken to promote conservation. More than a century ago, hunters and anglers were the earliest and most vocal supporters of conservation and scientific wildlife management. The grand opening coincides with several significant conservation landmarks in September including the 80th anniversary of President Franklin Roosevelt signing legislation establishing an excise tax on firearms and ammunition to fund wildlife conservation. Referred to as the Pittman-Robertson Act, this little-known bill has generated billions of dollars from sportsmen and women to fund vital state wildlife conservation activities.

It also marks the 80th anniversary of Ducks Unlimited, one of the foremost conservation organizations in the world and a key museum partner. Additionally, September 2017 is the 211th anniversary of the completion of the historic Lewis and Clark expedition, which will be one of many milestones featured inside Wonders of Wildlife.

Key Features • A 1.5 million-gallon aquarium adventure • More than a mile of immersive trails and exhibits spanning 320,000-square feet • 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles and birds representing 700 species • More than 70,000 square-feet of immersive wildlife galleries and dioramas • The Boone and Crockett Club’s National Collection of Heads and Horns • The International Game Fish Association’s (IGFA) Fishing Hall of Fame • The National Bass Fishing Hall of Fame • The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum • The National Archery Hall of Fame • Partnerships with 34 of the world’s foremost conservation organizations Officials are planning to share more details about Wonders of Wildlife including plans for the grand opening celebration events, pricing, hours of operation and key features in the coming weeks and months. For more information visit wondersofwildlife.org. Release and Photos Courtesy of Wonders of Wildlife MAY - 2017

Outdoor News

Choosing the Right Dog for a Rural Environment

hile rural living can be highly rewarding, there are plenty of unique challenges that come with the territory. Whether you need help controlling your chickens or scaring away those pesky rodents, dogs can be one of the most helpful assets available in places where sidewalks aren’t the norm.

Best Breeds for Rural Life With so many breeds to choose from, knowing what tasks you need your dog to handle is key to finding the right dog for you. According to Modern Farmer, there are two main groups of breeds that work best on a farm or rural area where there might be animals: Herding and livestock guardians.

Some commonly seen livestock guardian breeds include: Anatolian shepherd, Komondor, Maremma, Tibetan mastiff and Great Pyrenees.

The difference is in how each type of dog views livestock. Herding dogs see a flock of sheep as prey (though they won’t attack them), and will bunch and guide them. Guardian dogs, usually raised with livestock from a young age, will view them as part of their pack and therefore protect them at all costs. Most dogs excel at just one task or the other.

Even though a dog may be adorable as a puppy, it doesn’t mean he will grow to be the right dog for your environment and needs. Whether you’re searching for a buddy to run in the woods or a reliable farmhand, understand that a show dog is not a working dog. Even though a border collie is typically a great breed for farm work, if he is from show-dog parents, chances are good that those natural instincts or herding traits may have been weeded out.

Herding dogs can stay near the family, while guardian dogs generally stay in the fields — though no working dog is meant to be kept in the home full-time.

Nutrition Is Key, No Matter The Environment

When people are looking for a dog to help out on their property, they will most likely first look at herding breeds. These dependable dogs have a great combination that pair well for rural living needs: natural instincts and easy trainability. Some commonly seen breeds that flourish in a rural environment include: Border collie, Australian cattle dog, Welsh corgi, German shepherd, Old English sheepdog and Australian shepherd. If you’re looking for a more durable dog that can handle larger animals or heavy-duty tasks, a livestock guardian may be right for you.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Nutrition is key to a successful and happy dog, so feeding him a balanced diet made specifically for his activity levels is important. When looking for food for your working dog, look for highly-digestible ingredients that support muscle tissue, stamina and energy. Healthy food for your dog doesn’t need to cost a fortune. There are plenty of nutritional options available that are affordable, yet dependable. Find out which Diamond product is right for your pup! Visit diamondpet.com/2016/03/22/rural-living-dog/. Release and Photos Courtesy of Diamond Pet Food

Outdoor News

St. Louis Loses Two Open Space Conservators

his past March the St. Louis Region lost two influential open space leaders who had a remarkable impact on changing the landscape of the St. Louis Region. Wayne C. Kennedy, died at age 93 on Sunday (March 5, 2017) in Fort Myers, Florida after a brief illness. Mr. Kennedy had 30 year tenure as the Director of the St. Louis County Department of Parks and Recreation. During his career Mr. Kennedy was able to help assembly a park system that grew from an estimated 1000 acres of parkland to around 13,000 acres. He became known as a champion for parks acquisition and both active and passive recreation for over three decades.

Peter Sprinting, passed at age 62 on Friday (March 24, 2017) at his home in Sunset Hills, Missouri. Mr. Sorintino was a civic leader (2016 Citizen of the Year) who was best known for his collaborative skills in building needed support for large endeavors that offered a lasting quality of life legacy. Peter was the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go to guyâ&#x20AC;? on both Proposition C in 2000 and later Proposition P, two funding initiatives requiring a vote of the public to create the Metro Parks and Recreation District, an agency that works to establish parks, trails and greenways . We thank both of these conservation minded gentlemen who worked diligently to improve the quality of life for both man and wildlife in the St. Louis Region. Release Courtesy of Ron Coleman

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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.