CONSERVATION FEDERATION
The Voice for Missouri Outdoors SEPTEMBER 2017 - VOL 78 | NO. 5
BE THE DIFFERENCE FOR CONSERVATION
JOIN CFM TODAY
NOW IS YOUR CHANCE to join the organization that unites thousands of Missourians with the goal of preserving the state’s immense natural resources. Your actions now will create a better future for generations to come. Visit www.confedmo.org/join to become a member of CFM today.
President's Message
A Hunting and Fishing Fool
I
am not exactly sure why but during my youth folks associated with my dad often referred to my father as a “Hunting and Fishing Fool”. A not so glamorous term if you check out the various definitions of a fool in the dictionary.
Maybe it was because as a child he was one of 14 brothers and sisters who grew up poor on a small Washington County, Missouri farm near the town of Old Mines. Most of what the family had to eat was crops or animals they raised on their meager piece of land or wild game that they caught or killed fishing or hunting. Times were tough then during a period of depression and war. Dad spent a lot of time in the woods or near a stream helping to harvest the family ‘s next meal. After military service in WWII and when he found himself in the big city workplace as a young father he still pursued his youthful hunting and fishing habits on weekends. Thus the title “Hunting and Fishing Fool” must have emerged. As others were putting in long work days in St. Louis factories dad was always looking to escape at the end of a hard workday or weekend to a lake, stream or woods to get back to his roots. To him it was about outdoor recreation. To others in the work-a-day environment it may have seemed like time spent idly, aimlessly or foolishly. He worked nights in the book printing business and come the wee hours of Friday morning he would always have our vintage red and white station wagon jammed packed with fishing or hunting gear, tents, stoves, sleeping bags food and adult refreshments. Of course, he managed to squeeze us kids into the car somehow. Since we did not have much discretionary money at the time most of dad’s gear was war surplus or used equipment.
After a 4-6hour drive to the Ozarks we would arrive at our campsite in the pitch dark to set up camp. Often the mantles on the lantern would break, the gas stove would explode or not light, the tent would blow down and the ancient outboard motor would not start. He always seemed to be working on that darn motor.
People enjoy fishing at Bennet Spring State Park. (Photo: Emma Kessinger)
Just the same we relished those outdoor Missouri experiences. They gave me a greater appreciation for the many conservation and recreation benefits that we can enjoy today. As you head to the woods or water of our great Missouri outdoors this fall to not so foolishly pursue your favorite pastime I hope that you will take a moment to appreciate how far we as sportsmen have come. Our outdoor gear, equipment, technology and facilities is so much better than was available to my dad and others decades ago. Many of these advancements can be attributed to business leaders in the outdoor world such as our CFM Business Alliance members who today are purveyors of the goods and services designed to enhance your outdoor experience. I hope that you take a moment to thank members of our Business Alliance for their support on your next purchase or outing.
Yours in Conservation,
Ron Coleman President, CFM SEPTEMBER - 2017
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CONTENTS
Conservation Federation September 2017 - V78 No. 5
Features
OFFICERS Ron Coleman
President
Gary Van De Velde
1st Vice President
Mossie Schallon
2nd Vice President
Richard Mendenhall Secretary Randy Washburn
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STAFF Brandon Butler
Executive Director & Editor
Rehan Nana
Director of Corporate Relations
Micaela Haymaker
Director of Operations
Laurie Coleman
Membership Director
Jennifer Sampsell
Education & Outreach Coordinator
Learn tips and tricks for fly fishing.
Tyler Schwartze
Events Manager
Time for Migration Magic
Emma Kessinger
Creative Director
54 30
Treasurer
46
34
Fly fishing a Dropper Rig Increases Hook Ups
Missouri prepares for the Monarch migration.
42
We are Conservation: The Next Generation
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE
Read why one man believes in the North American Model of Conservation.
46
Squirrel: The Woods' Jamón Ibérico de Bellota Squirrel hunting can provide new challenges for hunters.
54
Deer at a Crossroads Missouri's deer herd faces challenges and needs support.
60
Fall Monarch Migration Comes to Missouri Learn more about this special butterfly and its long journey.
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Did I Do Enough? One man looks back and contemplates on on his life.
Departments 3 6 8
18 23 36
4
President's Message Business Alliance Spotlight Member News New Members Memorials Gear Guide Calendar Director’s Message Affiliate Spotlight Agency News CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Highlights 24 41 48 49 53
CFM's Inaugural Branson Shoot Matt Miles Releases His New Photography Book Burger's Provides a Buttermilk Cottontail Recipe Aberdeen - A Destination for Missourians Shelter Insurance Provides Tips for Fire Prevention
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 Bear cover image is one of many photographs that appear in Missouri Wild and Wonderful. See page 41. Photo: Matt Miles
Business Alliance
Thank you to all of our Business Alliance members. Platinum
Gold Alps OutdoorZ Bushnell Diamond Pet Foods Doolittle Trailer Enbridge, Inc.
G3 Boats Kansas City Zoo MidwayUSA Pure Air Natives Redneck Blinds
Riley Chevrolet Roeslein Alternative Energy, LLC United Country Real Estate US Sun Solar
Jaguar Land Rover St. Louis Learfield Communication, Inc. Lilley’s Landing Resort & Marina Logboat Brewing Missouri Wildflowers Nursery Mitico
Moneta Group National Feather-Craft Co. SportDOG Brand Starline, Inc. Sydenstrickers Tiger Hotel
HMI Fireplace Shop Hodgdon Powder Company, Inc. Inn at Grand Glaize Missouri Wine & Grape Board
NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. Sierra Bullets, LLC Walter Knoll Florist
Greenbrier Wetland Services Grundy Electric Cooperative, Inc. 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 Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Deer Classic Missouri Teardrops MTAR
Nick's Family Restaurant 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
Silver Aberdeen, South Dakota Advantage Metals Recycling Burgers’ Smokehouse Custom Metal Products Forrest Keeling Nursery G&W Meat & Bavarian Style Sausage Co.
Bronze Association of Missouri Electric Coop. Black Widow Custom Bows, Inc. Drury Hotels Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc.
Iron Bass Pro Shops (Independence) Blue Ridge Bank and Trust Blue Springs School District Blue Springs Park and Recreation Bob McCosh Chevrolet Buick GMC Brown Printing Cap America Central Bank Columbia Daily Tribune Dickerson Park Zoo Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association General Printing Service
Your business can benefit by supporting conservation. Contact Rehan Nana: 573-634-2322 or RNana@confedmo.org. SEPTEMBER - 2017
5
Business Alliance
CFM Platinum Business Alliance Member Lew’s Fishing Wins 4-in-a-row "Best" at ICAST 2017
T
he new-for-2018 Lew's Mach Crush Speed Spool SLP baitcast combo was voted best rod and reel combo by attending buyers and media in ICAST 2017's New Product Showcase competition, making it four in a row for Lew's in that category. The award was presented during ICAST, the fishing industry’s leading conference. "It's always wonderful to have a product picked best of show because it means the item really separated itself from the pack in the eyes of the voters," said Lew's Chairman Lynn Reeves. "For the honor to be a four-peat makes it especially rewarding, since the continuous recognitions indicate we're not reacting to trends, we're leading them." The Mach Crush baitcast combo, stunning with its orange highlights complementing a black finish, features Lew's exclusive SLP Super Low Profile compact design in a premium 10-bearing Speed Spool reel with the proven MSB Multi-Setting Brake dual cast control system. The reel handle has Winn Dri-Tac knobs and the combo's one-piece IM8 graphite rod sports a Winn Dri-Tac split-grip handle. Rod guides are American Tackle's innovative Airwave system.
The Mach Crush professionally matched baitcast combo is considered a high-end outfit, retailing for around $199.99. Not only did Lew's receive honors during ICAST, it also presented some. Lew's officials recognized Liz Ogilvie, American Sportfishing Association's (ASA) chief marketing officer; Mark Gintert, Future Fisherman Foundation executive director; and the Osceola Anglers High School Fishing Team for their respective support of Lew's new Mach High School Product Grant initiative.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Left to right, Gary Remensnyder, Lew's CEO; Bob Brown, product development director; and Dave Hinke, vice-president product development, accepted Lew's 4th-in-a-row ICAST award for best rod and reel combo. (Photo: Courtesy of Lew's)
Lew’s fishing has long been a steadfast supporter of CFM’s conservation mission and the state’s conservation efforts. In 2016, Lew’s increased its dedication to Missouri conservation by becoming a CFM Platinum Business Alliance Member – the organization’s highest level of conservation corporate support. In addition to business alliance support, Lew’s has participated and donated products to many CFM educational and fundraising events. “Lew’s Fishing is a Missouri based business that supports and defends all aspects that pertain to the management of Missouri’s outdoor resources. Our heritage depends on involvement by companies such as ours,” said Lynn Reeves, Lew’s Chairman. For more information, visit www.lews.com. To learn more about CFM’s Business Alliance program, please contact Rehan Nana at 573-634-2322 or RNana@ confedmo.org.
Rehan Nana Director of Corporate Relations, CFM
Member News
WELCOME NEW CFM MEMBERS Sara Anderson, Billings
Whitney Ferguson, Hartville
Stan O’Daniel, Lynchburg
Judy Barber, Marshfield
Uli Gulje, Springfield
Sheena Padigimus, Conway
Amanda Barker, Ozark
Gordon Hamon, Kirbyville
Lauren Presley, Branson
Joe Barker, Ozark
Michelle Harper, Springfield
Aaron Prier, Conway
Jana Barton, Springfield
Austin Hart, Springfield
Katie Prier, Conway
Glenda Bennett, Nixa
Elisa Hart, Springfield
Amanda Rispoli, Springfield
R. Bennett, Nixa
Kevin Hess, Strafford
John Rispoli, Springfield
Amala Bills, Springfield
Rachel Hillmer, Nixa
Corine Ross, Nixa
Elijah Bills, Springfield
Ted Hillmer, Nixa
Steve Ross, Nixa
Karen Bills, Springfield
Scharlene Hughes, Ozark
Donna Setterberg, Hannibal
Leigh Bills, Springfield
Tom Hughes, Ozark
David Shanholtzer, Nixa
Matt Bills, Springfield
Cole Johnston, Springfield
Melissa Shanholtzer, Nixa
Haley Blankenship, Lebanon
Mary Kromrey, Springfield
Tim Shryack, Springfield
Roseann Blunt, Strafford
Margie LaBorde, Republic
Charles Stribling, Mexico
James Brown, Springfield
Ricky LaBorde, Republic
Kristy Taylor, Springfield
Cheryl Carlson, Springfield
Eric Latimer, Springfield
Don Tillman, Springfield
Gale Carlson, Eldon
Amy Lee, Springfield
Lainey Tindle, Springfield
Caysey Caywood, Springfield
Jean Lee, Springfield
Jim Tornatore, Saint Louis
Jennifer Charleston, Springfield
Rebekah Lee, Springfield
Mark Walker, Lees Summit
Molly Chilton, Columbia
Will Lee, Springfield
Tom Washburn, Springfield
Stu Clausen, Springfield
Ed Lewis, Saint Joseph
Chanel Waterman, Laquey
Rick Collins, Nixa
Stacy Long, Lebanon
Melissa Waterman, Laquey
Jennifer Connor, Pierce City
Nate Luke, Nixa
Hunter Whiteley, Springfield
Justin Coyan, Rogersville
Jim March, Springfield
Maryann Whiteley, Springfield
Teresa Coyan, Rogersville
Luci March, Springfield
Ashley Wildermuth, Springfield
Adrienne Deckard, Ozark
Charles Mattingly, Sedalia
Connie Willman, Saint James
Scott Deckard, Ozark
Tina Mattingly, Sedalia
Glenda Wilson, Republic
Donna DeHaven, Springfield
Brooks Miller, Springfield
John Wilson, Republic
Joe Demster, Clever
Joe Miller, Springfield
Greg Wood, Boonville
Sarah Demster, Clever
Patty Miller, Springfield
Ann Woolsey, Strafford
Sue Dyle, Springfield
Larry & Helen Morice, Saint Louis
Beth Ziehmer, California
Mike Eutska, Springfield
Kent Morris, Nixa
Stacey Zuck, Lebanon
Donna Eutsler, Springfield
Melody Morris, Nixa
Spencer Ferguson, Hartville
Carolyn O’Daniel, Lynchburg
CFM would like to thank the 245 members that renewed since our last publication. 8
CONSERVATION FEDERATION
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.
Visit Today!
Explore
Kansas City Zoo
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.
Member News
&
Honorariums
Come join us! It’s gonna be a blast!
Memorials
In memory of David Risberg David & Lori Edmark, Eagle, ID Jay & Lesley Hoffarth, Kirkwood, MO Pamela Moench, Saint Louis, MO Michael Risberg, Springfield, MO Leon & Carolyn Ullensvang, Warson Woods, MO
Saturday, September 9, 2017 | 10AM–4PM Sunday, September 10, 2017 | 10AM–2PM Table Rock State Park Branson, MO
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Days are annual celebrations of education through outdoor adventures, the learning of outdoor skills, and the conservation advocacy of our natural resources and wildlife. We invite you to join us for a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to the exhilarating world of outdoor recreation. Whether you are a new or expert outdoorsman, we will have a wide variety of outdoor exploration opportunities and activity options for all ages, backgrounds, and areas of interest to enjoy! FREE Activities include Catch and Release Pond, Kayak Pool, Daisy Shooting Ranges, Archery, Rock Walls, Viewing Aquariums, Live Animal Encounters, & More!
Karen Winters, Saint Louis, MO For complete detials regarding all 6 Missouri Outdoor Days events, visit:
conservation.basspro.com BP170508
The importance of your motor running well, especially in tournament fishing, is to get you there quicker. Spend more time fishing instead of more time traveling. That’s why Crappie Masters supports gasoline blended with 10 percent ethanol - a fuel made from corn grown in America. Mike Vallentine, Crappie Masters President
Get the truth about ethanol. www.mocorn.org 2014 Crappie Mag_Half Page.indd 1
10
CONSERVATION FEDERATION
11/5/2014 1:00:44 PM
Member News
Pull for Conservation: Boonville – Successful Event
T
he Conservation Federation of Missouri held its 11th Annual Pull for Conservation: Boonville on Saturday, July 29 at River Hills Sporting Clays. Thank you to all the shooters, volunteers and generous sponsors for making this event a success. Approximately 130 shooters come out to pull the trigger and test their skills on the range. Shooters had the opportunity to participate in individual, two shooter scramble, long shot and 5-stand competitions. A special thanks to all our station sponsors, our food sponsor Randy Washburn, and our title sponsors, Bass Pro Shops of Columbia and Central Electric Power Cooperative. Central Electric Power Cooperative’s members are Boone Electric Cooperative, Consolidated Electric Cooperative, Callaway Electric Cooperative, Cuivre River Electric Cooperative, Central Missouri Electric Cooperative, Howard Electric Cooperative, Co-Mo Electric Cooperative, and Three Rivers Electric Cooperative. The next Pull for Conservation will take place on October 14 at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Shooting Academy in Branson. To register, go to: www.confedmo.org/pull-forconservation-branson.
At the end of the day, prizes were awarded to the following winners: Two Shooter Scramble A Class 1 – Matthew DeVore and Stuart DeVore 2 – Harold Mabrey and Brian Coleman 3 – David Cruse and Matthew Cruse B Class 1 – Mike Brooke and Tom Brooke 2 – James Thoenen and Tim Gibler 3 – Jarrod Schwartz and Dan Vo C Class 1 – Dave Hamilton and Dale Westerhold 2 – Brad Hanneken and Jerry Kleekamp 3 – John Massey and Mel Smarr Individual A Class 1 – Stuart DeVore 2 – Trent Schroeder 3 – Harold Mabrey B Class 1 – Tom Nichols 2 – Eric Strope 3 – Darryl Ruettgers C Class 1 – Tom Terwilliger 2 – Jack Creason 3 – Jim Keeven
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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®
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Member News
Gear Guide Champion Workhorse Trap Moving up to an electronic trap was once a major investment in space and money. Not anymore. The affordable Champion Workhorse Electronic Trap lives up to its name, combining high-volume target-throwing capacity in a compact design. It fits in the trunk of most any vehicle, and can be unloaded and set up by one person. The detachable magazine holds up to 50 clays, and can throw them with three different launch angles up to 75 yards. The Champion Workhorse can keep throwing clays until you run out of daylight or ammunition – whatever comes first. www.championtarget.com
Cabela's Polar Cap Equalizer Cooler – BUSINESS ALLIANCE Tougher than an angry bear and proven to keep ice frozen for up to 12 days, Cabela’s Polar Cap Equalizer Coolers provide serious performance. A maximum insulation-to-weight ratio provides a hefty amount of temperature-controlling foam insulation without adding excessive weight, making transport a breeze. An innovative freezer-grade gasket creates a seal that's airtight, preserving what's inside longer. Molded-in handles and a molded-in hinge with aluminum connecting rods enhance durability for years of reliable performance. Made in USA. www.cabelas.com
Clam Quick-Set Escape Shelter The Quick-Set Escape is the original 6-sided gazebo canopy revolutionized the way outdoor enthusiasts battle bugs and Mother Nature while camping or in the backyard. Ready to use out of the box, no assembly required, a mere 45-seconds setup and it spaciously fits a picnic table. Complete with no-see-um mesh and an extra wide skirt that serves as the best bug repellent. It is great for activities such as camping, picnics, family gatherings or setup for the long days at the kid’s soccer games. You will want to add this pop up tent to the rest of your camping equipment. For additional protection from sun, wind and rain purchase the wind panel accessories. www.clamoutdoors.com
API Outdoors 20' Grandstand Skypod Tripod – BUSINESS ALLIANCE The all-steel deluxe API Outdoors 20' Grandstand Skypod Tripod Stand allows hunters to remain comfortable during long stretches in woods. It measures 20' to the full-surround shooting rail. The 42" wide by 42" deep foot platform gives you lots of room for standing shots, and the 20" wide by 15" deep seat cushion is a full 2" thick for incredible all-day comfort. It also rotates 360º for full coverage of the shooting field, and features padded armrests and backrest. Height: 17' to platform, 18.5' to seat, 20' to shooting rail. Weight: 165 lbs. Maximum weight capacity: 300 lbs. www.basspro.com
Redneck Blinds Soft Side 6x6 Camo Deluxe – BUSINESS ALLIANCE The Soft Side Camo Deluxe 360 blind also features a semi-permanent heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame that is built for the toughest of conditions and snow loads. The frame is constructed of heavy-duty tubular steel and bolts together in about 35-45 minutes. With its spacious 6-foot by 6-foot interior, there’s plenty of room for up to three adults or two adults and two children to hunt comfortably—whether that’s with a bow, gun or crossbow. www.redneckblinds.com
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Member News
CALENDAR UPCOMING AFFILIATE EVENTS AUDOBON SOCIETY OF MISSOURI SEPT 22-24: Fall Meeting, Camp Clover Point, Lake Ozark BOONE'S LICK CHAPTER MASTER NATURALIST SEPT 2: Hike to Hidden Treasures, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia (1:30 – 3:30pm) SEPT 6: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 SEPT 8: EcoBlitz Invasive Removal Workshop, Indian Hills Park, Columbia (9:30am – 2:30pm); Danielle Fox (573) 4415526 SEPT 9: Columbia Crawdads Stream Team Cleanup, Columbia (8 – 11am); Lisa Rohmiller (573) 874-7499 SEPT 13: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am - 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 SEPT 16: Prairie Seed Collection, Auxvasse Glade, Auxvasse; Chris Newbold (573) 8157901 ext. 3392 SEPT 20: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 SEPT 27: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 SEPT 30: Prairie Seed Collection, Prairie Fork Conservation Area, Williamsburg; Chris Newbold (573) 815-7901 ext. 3392 OCT 4: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 OCT 7: Hike to Hidden Treasures, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia (1:30 – 3:30pm) OCT 11: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 OCT 14: Prairie Seed Collection, Rocky Fork Lakes Conservation Area, Columbia; Chris Newbold (573) 815-7901 ext. 3392 OCT 14: Columbia Crawdads Stream Team Cleanup, Columbia (8 – 11am); Lisa Rohmiller (573) 874-7499 OCT 18: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 OCT 25: Birding Trips with Bill Clark (7:30am – 4pm); Bill Clark (573) 474-4510 OCT 28: Prairie Seed Collection, Prairie Fork Conservation Area – Williamsburg or Auxvasse Glade; Chris Newbold (573) 8157901 ext. 3392
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
FOREST AND WOODLAND ASSOCIATION OF MISSOURI SEPT 6: Forestry Resources Advisory Council Fall Meeting, Farm Bureau Headquarters, Jefferson City (9am – 3pm) SEPT 29-30: Walnut Council Missouri Chapter Fall Field Day and Business Meeting, Rolla OCT 7: Chestnut Roast, Horticulture and Agroforestry Research Center, New Franklin (10am – 4pm) OCT 11-12: Missouri Consulting Foresters Association Fall Technical Session, Bunker Hill Retreat – Upper Jacks Fork River; Lynn Barnickol (573) 230-6248 FOREST RELEAF OF MISSOURI SEPT 16: Free Monthly Nursery Tour, CommuniTree Gardens, Creve Coeur Park, St. Louis (10am – 12pm) SEPT 23: Arbormeisters Homebrew and Craft Beer Festival, CommuniTree Gardens, Creve Coeur Park, St. Louis (1 – 5pm) GREENWAY NETWORK SEPT 4: Board Meeting, St. Peters (7 – 9pm) SEPT 20: CSI E. Coli Project, Dardenne Creek (9am – 12pm) SEPT 23: Conservation Team at National Public Land Days (8:30am – 2pm) OCT 2: Board Meeting, St. Peters (7 – 9pm) OCT 7: Recycling Event, Meadows Shopping Center, Lake St. Louis (10am – 3pm) OCT 7: Honeysuckle Bash, Blanchette Park, St. Charles (9am – 2pm) OCT 29: Dardenne Creek Monitoring (7:30am – 2pm); Larry Ruff (636) 498-0772 MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION SEPT 21: Sportsman’s Night Out; Bill Hilgeman (314) 910-1309 OCT 11: Monthly Meeting, American Legion Hall, Brentwood (7:30pm) MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF MEAT PROCESSORS SEPT 14-16: Fall Meeting and Bus Tour, Kansas City MISSOURI BASS FEDERATION SEPT 17: Open-Buddy Bass Tournament Fall Classic, Pomme De Terre Lake – Lighthouse/ Harbor Marina (6am – 3pm)
MISSOURI COALITION FOR THE ENVIRONMENT SEPT 9: Reclaim + Sustain Foods/Farm Weekend, Thomas Dunn Learning Center, St. Louis (12 – 7pm) SEPT 13: FSM Prayer Vigil for West Lake Landfill, Bridgeton (10 – 10:30am) SEPT 14-15: Integrating the Missouri River in Your Classroom Workshop, St. Charles SEPT 21: West Lake Landfill Community Meeting, Bridgeton (6:30 – 8:30pm) SEPT 27: West Lake Landfill Prayer Vigil, Bridgeton (10 – 10:30am) OCT 11: FSM Prayer Vigil for West Lake Landfill, Bridgeton (10 – 10:30am) OCT 19: West Lake Landfill Community Meeting, Bridgeton (6:30 – 8:30pm) OCT 25: West Lake Landfill Prayer Vigil, Bridgeton (10 – 10:30am) OCT 27: DNR All Kitchen Cabinet Meeting, Jefferson City MISSOURI CONSULTING FORESTERS ASSOC. OCT 11-12: Fall Technical Session, Bunker Hill Retreat – Upper Jacks Fork River; Lynn Barnickol (573) 230-6248 MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED SEPT 4: Grand River Summer of Guns and Diamonds Online Raffle; Allen Jeffries (660) 247-0705 SEPT 9: Osage Dinner, Osage County Community Center, Loose Creek (5 – 10pm); Dale Williams (573) 690-9676 SEPT 9: Marmaton Valley Teal Opener Banquet, Eagles Lodge, Nevada (5:30 – 10pm); Brian Conroy (417) 321-9186 SEPT 16: Lost Creek Inaugural Dinner, Community Center, Cameron (6 – 10pm); Nik Perkins (816) 724-1504 SEPT 23: Mineral Area Dinner, Farmington (6 – 10pm); Justin Raith (573) 783-9784 SEPT 23: Ozark Tigers High School Chapter Dinner, Finely River Park, Ozark (6 – 10pm); Jeremy Tennison (417) 299-0924 SEPT 30: Benton County Dinner, Community Center, Warsaw (6 – 10pm); Charlie Daleske (660) 221-1860 SEPT 30: Chapter Dinner, Memorial Hall, Carthage (5:30 – 10pm); Jason Hill (417) 850-5111
Member News SEPT 30: Chapter Dinner, Moose Lodge, Kirksville (5:30 – 10pm); Brian Bloskovish (660) 342-5903 SEPT 30: Chapter Dinner, Athletic Complex, Parkville (6 – 10pm); Dave Velky (816) 8048006 OCT 7: Chapter Dinner, Red Door Barn, Webb City (5:30 – 10pm); Andy Queen (417) 392-0547 OCT 7: Christian County Bingo Night, Elks Lodge, Ozark (6 – 10pm); Scott Lambeth (417) 838-8441 OCT 14: Crooked River Dinner, Ryther’s North Country Community Center, Lawson (6 – 10pm); Bruce Yager (816) 806-8564 OCT 19: Chapter Dinner, The Exchange, Camdenton (5:30 – 10pm); Jodi Moulder (573) 216-1195 OCT 28: Chapter Dinner, Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia (6 – 10pm); Carolyn Thomlinson (660) 826-5251 MISSOURI HUNTING HERITAGE FEDERATION SEPT 28: Sportsmen’s Gala, Emaline Ballroom, Lees Summit (6 – 9pm) MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION SEPT 9: Sponsor Event, Anheuser Busch Mansion, St. Louis (5pm); Matt Ludwig (314) 853-4424 SEPT 9: Day at the Range, Andy Dalton Shooting Complex, Bois D’arc; Matthew Kramer (417) 839-6366 SEPT 30: Clay Howlett Memorial, VFW, Richland (5:30pm); Clinton Jarrett (573) 855-1442 OCT 5: Bootheel Boss Gobblers Gun Blast, Knights of Columbus, Jackson (6pm); Timothy Schwent (573) 225-3740 OCT 6: Heartland Gobblers Gun Blast, American Legion, Poplar Bluff (6pm); Cordell Stewart (573) 222-7182 OCT 7: See’s Creek Strutters, Knights of Columbus, Monroe City (5:30pm); Chris Kleindienst (573) 822-6075 OCT 7: Bunt Cumbea Laclede County Chapter, Cowin Civic Center, Lebanon (5:30pm); Karen Ray (417) 588-1643 OCT 7: Polk County Hillbilly Longbeards, Smith’s Restaurant, Bolivar (5:30pm); Todd Grant (417) 399-4534 OCT 14: Shoal Creek Chapter, Casino Building, Monett (6pm); Bill House (417) 236-3719 OCT 19: River Hills Thunderin’ Gun Bash, Knights of Columbus, Bloomsdale (6pm); Rob Sulkowski (573) 883-9982
OCT 20: Gasconade River Gobblers, Community Building, Belle (6pm); Kyle Lairmore (573) 437-8899 OCT 21: Marais-des Cygnes River Gobblers, Optimist Club, Adrian (5:30pm); Wyatt Jackson (816) 289-0578 OCT 21: Current River Callers Jakes Event, Twin Pines Conservation Center, Winona; Cole Chatman (417) 818-6196 MISSOURI OUTDOOR COMMUNICATORS SEPT 8-10: Annual Conference, Stoney Creek Hotel and Suites, St. Joseph MISSOURI PARK AND RECREATION ASSOC. SEPT 8: Board Meeting, Jefferson City SEPT 12-14: Leadership Development Institute, Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground, Kaiser SEPT 12: Northeast Region Meeting, Warm Springs Ranch, Boonville SEPT 13: Northwest Region Meeting, Grain Valley SEPT 17-18: Student Workshop, Camp Clover Point, Kaiser OCT 24: Maintenance Workshop, Columbia OCT 25-26: Executive Forum, Blue Springs MISSOURI PARKS ASSOCIATION OCT 6-8: Annual Gathering, Arrow Rock MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATION SEPT 16: Native Plant Sale, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center, Kansas City (9:30am – 2pm) SEPT 23: Native Tree Walk with Eric Lovelace of Forrest Keeling Nursery, DuPont Forest Natural Area, Louisiana (10am – 2pm) OCT 6: Grow Native! Workshop: Restoration of Oak-Hickory Woodland & Bush Honeysuckle Management, Shaw Nature Reserve, Gray Summit (8:30am – 4pm) OCT 7: Missouri Prairie Festival, Saint Louis OCT 14: Evening on the Prairie, Cole Camp OCT 15: Board Meeting (9am) MISSOURI RIVER BIRD OBSERVATORY SEPT 1: Fall Migration Bird Surveys, Wah’Kon-Tah and Linscomb Conservation Areas (7 – 11am) OCT 14-15: Heritage Festival, Arrow Rock MISSOURI RIVER RELIEF SEPT 16: Missouri River Clean-up, The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Nature Center, St. Charles (9am - 12pm)
OCT 21: Missouri River Clean-up, Franklin Island Conservation Area, Boonville (9am 12pm) MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE SEPT 8-10: Fall Outing, Meramec Scenic View, Valley Park (5am - 8pm) SEPT 9-10: BronzeFest MISSOURI TRAPPERS ASSOCIATION SEPT 15-17: Fall Rendezvous, Flickerwood Arena, Jackson MISSOURI TROUT FISHERMEN'S ASSOC. SPRINGFIELD SEPT 5: Monthly Meeting, Lions Community Building, Branson (6 - 9pm) SEPT 7: Fly Fishing Class, Missouri State University – Kemper Hall, Springfield (6 – 9pm) SEPT 14: Fly Fishing Class, Missouri State University – Kemper Hall, Springfield (6 – 9pm) SEPT 16-17: Saint Louis Derby, Meramec Springs SEPT 21: Fly Fishing Class, Missouri State University – Kemper Hall, Springfield (6 – 9pm) SEPT 28: Fly Fishing Class, Mountain Springs Trout Park, Highlandville (8am – 5pm) SEPT 30: Fly Fishing Class, Roaring River State Park, Cassville (9am – 3pm) OCT 1: Monthly Meeting, Lions Community Building, Branson (6 – 9pm) OCT 5: Monthly Meeting, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield (6 – 8pm) MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITED SEPT 16: Kingdom of Callaway Chapter Banquet, Saint Peters Hall, Fulton SEPT 16: Chariton County Ruttin Bucks Banquet, The Balcony Ballroom, Salisbury SEPT 23: Anchor City Chapter Banquet, NicN-Noah’s Sports and Event Center, Centralia SEPT 30: Banks Black Island Chapter Banquet, Parish Center, Portageville SEPT 30: Show Me Chapter Banquet, Caldwell Building, Canton SEPT 30: Southern Boone Chapter Banquet, Optimist Club, Ashland OCT 7: Mississippi Valley Chapter Banquet, Admiral Coontz Armory, Hannibal OCT 14: Big Piney Chapter Banquet, FEMA Shelter, Cabool OCT 21: Davis Creek Chapter Banquet, Community Center, Higginsville
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Member News OZARK FLY FISHERS SEPT 14-17: Lake Taneycomo Club Outing, Lilley’s Landing Resort and Marina, Branson SEPT 28: General Membership Meeting, Edgar M. Queeny County Park, Ballwin (7 9pm) OCT 9: Board Meeting, Saint Basil the Great Orthodox, St. Louis (7 - 8pm) OCT 20-22: Eleven Point Outing, Eleven Point River Outfitters, Alton OCT 26: General Membership Meeting, Edgar M. Queeny County Park, Ballwin (7 – 9pm) OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB SEPT 2-4: Cleanup Trip SEPT 9: Dutch Oven Cooking, Lake of the Woods Dining Hall (4 – 6pm) SEPT 9: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30 - 7:30pm) SEPT 9: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30 - 9pm) SEPT 17-19: Eleven Point River, Greer Spring, Woodside Township SEPT 30-OCT 1: Bryant Creek, Patrick Bridge Access, Caulfield OCT 14: Steam Team Water Quality Testing, Minor Park, Kansas City (10 – 11am)
OCT 14: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30 - 7:30pm) OCT 14: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30 - 9pm) OCT 19-20: Bell Mountain Trail Hike, Johnson Shut-Ins State Park, Middle Brook OCT 21-24: Current River, Jadwin Canoe Rental, Jadwin OCT 25-26: Jack’s Fork River, Alley Spring Campground, Eminence POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES SEPT 16-17: Guide for a Day, Pomme de Terre Lake; Wayne Humphrey (314) 4402173 SEPT 16-17: Guide for a Day, Hazel Creek Lake; Wayne Humphrey (314) 440-2173 SEPT 23: Shawnee Muskie Hunters Border War Challenge, Pomme de Terre; Dennis Ledgerwood (636) 346-4288 SEPT 24: King of the Lake Tournament, Pomme de Terre; George Donner (816) 678-1623 OCT 12: Pre-Tournament Registration and Lure Swap, Clearlight Inn; George Donner (816) 678-1623 OCT 13: Friday Fall Tournament, Pomme de Terre; George Donner (816) 678-1623 OCT 14-15: Saturday/Sunday Fall Tournament, Pomme de Terre; George Donner (816) 678-1623
QUAIL FOREVER & PHEASANTS FOREVER SEPT 22: Mid Missouri Uplanders Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus, Columbia (5:30 – 9:30pm); John Wallace (937) 459-8085 SAINT LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETY SEPT 16: Native Plant Tour (9am – 4pm) SEPT 23: Native Plant Expo and Sales, Schlafly Bottleworks, St. Louis (9am – 2pm) OCT 7: Beginner Bird Walk, Forest Park, St. Louis (8:15 – 10:30am) WALNUT COUNCIL AND OTHER FINE HARDWOODS SEPT 29-30: Fall Field Day and Business Meeting, Rolla CFM EVENTS SEPT 14-15: Affiliate Summit, Inn at Grand Glaize, Osage Beach OCT 7: Explore the Outdoors: Saint Louis, Nine Network of Public Media, St. Louis OCT 14: Pull for Conservation: Branson, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Shooting Academy, Branson
Why I Became A CFM Life Member: Gary Wheeler
S
ome of my greatest memories are tied to the outdoors - exploring Missouri’s bootheel with my brothers and close friends while growing up on Little River Drainage District 42, 43, 6 & 8 ditches as well as Little River and Floodway building weekend camps, trapping, fishing and duck hunting. To now seeing those places through the eyes of my children. Spending time outdoors is nearly synonymous with family time. And for some years, I was set that my ideal career would have me working outdoors as a result of those experiences as a Conservation Agent for MDC. As an adult, I found that I could make a greater impact as an advocate for wise use of our natural resources, and for our incredible outdoor spaces and wildlife through my love and passion for agriculture.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Working with farmers across our state, I’ve seen the passion landowners have for our land and water, and the difference we can make through partnerships. The Conservation Federation of Missouri brings together the voices of its members and connecting Missourians to opportunities to develop a lifelong love of the outdoors and agriculture, and I’m proud to be part of fulfilling that mission.
Committed to Community & Conservation Owned by the members they serve, Missouri’s electric cooperatives do more than provide reliable and affordable electricity. They are active in their communities, concerned for the wellbeing of their neighbors and devoted to the rural way of life that makes the Show-Me State a special place to live, work and play. Missouri’s electric cooperatives are dedicated to protecting the land, air and water resources important to you and your quality of life. Learn more at www.amec.coop.
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Director's Message
Conservation Federation Loses Two Great Past-Presidents
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ords weren’t flowing easy. The task of stringing thoughts together for this column to explain the significance of losing a conservationist as esteemed as Glenn Chambers was more daunting than I anticipated. Legendary, monumental, essential and rare all come to mind as qualities Glenn acquired through endless achievements in his chosen field. But the reasons so many people adored Glenn and are so saddened by his passing are more so wrapped up in his infectious enthusiasm for life and the way he loved his family and friends. As I kept pecking at the keys and sorting memories, my cell phone rang. It was Sara Parker Pauley. Always eager to hear from the Director, I answered hoping a spark of her own enthusiasm and love of Glenn would light my creative fire and help me complete this heavy task. Her words instead were paralyzing. Don Johnson had passed away. A long, courageous battle with cancer gave us time to say good-bye to Glenn. Honors and awards were rightfully bestowed in a manner subsequent with his schedule. Articles were written, videos were made, and interviews were conducted. He gave us words and moments to remember. He left us as he lived, embracing each day until his last.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Don was different. He left us unexpectedly. As life often does, it gave us little warning before changing course. Kind, gentle and gregarious, Don was a flame and I a moth. Drawn to him from the first day on the job, I immediately found in Don an adviser and a friend. Gentle is a strange word for a decorated war hero, but if you knew him, you understand just what I mean. Always offering a beaming smile and a bear hug. Don was a Conservation Commissioner from 20072013. He was president of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) in 2006 and served as the CFM representative to the National Wildlife Federation for nearly 15 years. He was also active in the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, National Rifle Association and Ducks Unlimited. In 2012, Budweiser and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation honored Don as a finalist for the Budweiser Conservationist of the Year Award.
Don Johnson. (Photo: Courtesy of CFM)
Director's Message
Remembering Don Johnson & Glenn Chambers Glenn Chambers was born June 14, 1936 at home on the family farm in Bates County, near Passaic between Butler and Adrian. He became enamored by the outdoors early on. When Glenn was just a boy, Charlie Schwartz, the famous Missouri conservation artist who designed the MDC logo and really helped establish the public image of the Department, recorded a survey on the Chambers farm in 1942. According to Glenn, Charlie found 50 prairie chicken cocks per acre. This was long before he became Glenn’s mentor and dear friend.
He was the 60th Missourian to receive the Department of Conservation’s top living honor, the Master Conservationist Award. Yet the most prestigious award Glenn received is the William T. Hornaday Gold Medal from the Boy Scouts of America. A lifetime achievement award given for environmental conservation, Chambers is only the 40th person in history to receive the honor, joining the ranks of Theodore Roosevelt and Aldo Leopold. He remains the only Missourian to receive the Medal. Both of these incredible men, Glenn Chambers and Don Johnson, were giants in the Missouri conservation story, and were giants among their friends. They will be missed deeply by many and CFM is lessened by their loss. But both are forever cemented in the legacy of conservation in Missouri. Our world is a better place because of Glenn and Don. God bless them and their families.
Glenn saw and worked in many of the world’s wildest places, including the Arctic and Guatemala. He had a special connection to the wild and wildlife. He trained baby geese to be movie stars and worked with all sorts of other critters, but he’s maybe best known for his work with otters. The breadth of Glenn’s work has been duly recognized. Over the course of his life, he received many awards and honors. He was the recipient of the Ducks Unlimited Distinguished Service Award. He was also a past president of the Conservation Federation of Missouri and received the Federation’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Glenn Chambers. (Photo: Courtesy of CFM)
Yours in Conservation, Brandon Butler Executive Director, CFM
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Member News
Cabela's Hazelwood Upcoming Events September 2-3 • 11AM Don’t be a Victim – Protection Preparedness - Whether you’re running outdoors or out shopping, stay alert, aware and prepared. From stun guns to pepper spray, we can help you explore your options. • 1PM 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. September 9-10 Shooting Classic NRA Weekend - NRA offer to renew or sign-up memberships and receive a $25 gift card. • Saturday, 11AM New Shooter Guide - If you’re new to shooting or simply looking for tips and tricks, you won’t want to miss this class led by a NRA instructor. • 12PM-1PM Free Hotdogs • Saturday, 1PM Shotgun Cleaning Tips - Our Outfitter will show you the proper techniques of cleaning and caring for your shotgun. September 16-17 • 12PM Reloading Basics Seminar - Learn the basics of reloading your own ammunition with RCBS. • 1PM Cabela’s Instinct Optics Demo - Cabela’s award-winning line of Instinct Optics will be on display for demonstrations and testing. September 23 Ladies Day Out • 9AM-2PM - All Ladies that come will get a special VIP discount. • Archery Fitting and Shoot in the Archery Range - Stop by the Archery Range from 9AM – 2PM, get fitted for a bow and test your archery skills. • Intro to Trailer Backing - Want to learn to back a trailer? Let our expert Outfitters show you how to back like a pro. • Flip and Pitch - Learn how to cast with our expert Outfitters. • Self-Defense: Refuse to Be a Victim - One of the most popular courses offered by the NRA. September 30-October 1 (Deer Hunting Classic) • 10AM-2PM Antler Scoring with Pope & Young Bring your antlers in and we’ll break it down from point to point and provide an official score. • Saturday, 11AM Scent Control Secrets - We’ll demystify all our scent products and options. • Saturday, 1PM Long-Range Optics - Our Outfitter will demonstrate fall options and provide tips for long-range shooting.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
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12PM Game Camera Basics - We’ll talk about the features and benefits of our full line of trail cameras. 2PM Crossbow Basics - Let our Outfitters provide you with some basic information and go through different options so you can find the perfect crossbow. 10AM Reloading Basics - Reloading allows you to customize your loads to your exact specs and shooting style.
September 7-8 • 11AM The Right Rifle: What to Look For - Make sure you have the right gun and enough power to take down your large game. • 1PM Footwear for Hunting Season - Our Outfitters will help you choose the right footwear for your hunting needs. September 14-15 • Saturday, 11AM Firearms Safety Depends on You - Learn how to properly store firearms and ammunition in your home from this informative seminar sponsored by Cabela’s and the National Shooting Sports Foundation. • Saturday, 12PM Kid’s Cabela’s Cup - Bring the kids out to try their aim in our safe, portable airsoft range. • Saturday, 1PM Cabela’s Cup - Combine your love for shooting and competition with the excitement of laser guns for a chance to win the Cabela’s cup. • Saturday, 2PM IDENTILOCK Demonstration - Your world will be a little safer and access to your firearm will be faster with Sentinl's IDENTILOCK – the quick access trigger lock that opens with the touch of your fingerprint. September 21-22 • 1PM Sleeping Bags for Fall - Cold weather is coming – make sure your sleeping bag is up to the challenge of fall and winter camping. September 28-29 Big Buck Days • Saturday, 12PM Wild Game Processing - In this seminar, you’ll learn the basics of butchering wild game and where each cut of meat comes from. • Saturday, 2PM Pick the right knife - Knives range from no-nonsense, fixed blades to compact pocket knives, and specialized knives for scenarios such as quartering your elk or deer in the field.
As the first Cabela’s in Missouri, we pulled out all the stops to bring a serious outdoor experience to the Show-Me-State. The Hazelwood Cabela’s store was built to not only surround customers with quality outdoor products, but to engage them with lifelike taxidermy, local fish swimming in the aquarium and an indoor archery test area.
5555 St. Louis Mills Blvd. Ste. #167 Hazelwood, MO 63042
(314) 225-0100
Located just off I-270, north of I-70 (Exit 22B, Hwy. 370), the impressive 130,000-sq.-ft. retail showroom is packed with outdoor equipment. Whether you’re visiting the St. Louis Arch, exploring the wilds of the Ozarks or just stocking up on gear, our experienced Outfitters are ready and waiting to help you get the most out of your next adventure.
STAY UP TO DATE ON ALL UPCOMING STORE EVENTS AT CABELAS.COM/HAZELWOOD
Member News
Missouri Bow Hunters 19th Annual Youth Bowfishing Tournament Back in 1999 when the first MBH Youth Bowfishing Tourney was held I’m sure brothers Allen and Kent Hayes never dreamed they would still be doing this almost 20 years later. Kent and Allen along with Kent’s wife Sandy and Allen’s son Ethan all said it was something they still look forward to all year long. They all agreed that it takes a lot of work and help from several volunteers and sponsors to make this event happen every year. “The smiles on the kids’ faces make it all worthwhile” says Allen. “Yep, this is what it’s all about for me” said Kent after seeing his 13-year-old granddaughter Kaidence posing with her fish of the day. This year’s tourney happened on July 8th at Bledsoe Ferry below Truman Lake Dam and was completely free to all youth 16 and younger. Top three by fish weight in each division were awarded trophies. If no fish were shot, winners were drawn from a hat. It was hot as usual but 43 young archers had a great time and each one of them walked away with great memories of a day outdoors and several gifts, door prizes, as well as a cookout all free of charge from the generous folks and businesses that sponsored. A big thank you goes to BowfishingExtreme.com, Batson Archery, Bass Pro Shops, AMS Bowfishing, AFFC Fin-Finder Bowfishing, Muzzy Bowfishing, and Missouri Bow Hunters Association for several door prize donations including bows, reels, arrows, hats, stickers, trophies and t-shirts. We also need to recognize the boat captains. It takes a kind of specialized boat set up with a raised platform to successfully arrow fish. These boat captains and guides donated their equipment and time to help get kids on the water and we could not have this event without them. I heard lots of excited kids talking about the ones that got away, great shots and misses, along with lots of I can’t wait until next year. The fish that were harvested during the tournament were not wasted; they were donated to the “Turtle Man”. The fish were used to feed endangered
(Top) Lauren and Megan both won. Lauren had more total weight but Megan shot the biggest grass carp. (Bottom) Kent & Allen styling it in their Hawaiian shirts giving away door prizes to the kids. (Photo: Courtesy of Jeff Blystone)
Alligator Snapping turtles and Common Snapping turtles that this local breeds and raises for conservation efforts in zoos and the pet trade. Check out our website at www.mobowhunters.org for information on tournaments, scholarship programs, our monthly electronic newsletter called the “Release," and more. Jeff Blystone Missouri Bow Hunters Association
2017 Winners 10 Years & Younger (9 Shooters) 1 - Kaydon Johnston (7lbs, 8oz.) 2 - Brody Sands (Drawing) 3 - Ira Cron (Drawing)
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11 to 13 years (16 Shooters) 1 - Samantha Saylor (16lbs, 8oz.) 2 - Landon Dennis (14lbs, 6oz.) 3 - TIE; Kaidence Cleveland & Hunter Sifford (11lbs, 6oz.)
CONSERVATION FEDERATION
14 to 16 years (18 Shooters) 1 - Hunter O’Neil (80lbs, 2oz.) 2 - Israel Cron (60lbs, 8oz.) 3 - Lauren Henslee (46lbs, 6oz.)
Affiliate Spotlight
Missouri Bow Hunters Association
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he Missouri Bow Hunter Association (MBH) was formed in 1947. Their mission it to perpetuate, foster and direct the sport of archery in the state of Missouri in accordance with high ideals of sportsmanship; to conduct a continuous educational program to acquaint the public with the bow and its use as a practical and humane weapon suitable for the hunting of all legal game and fish. Whether you are a bowhunter, novice target archer, or a top competitive pro, you will make a world of new friends in MBH. MBH welcomes all levels of archers. No matter if you just shot a bow yesterday for the first time or have been shooting/bowhunting for decades. MBH offers six championship tournaments a year: • State Junior Championship • 3D Jamboree • State Indoor Championship • MBH Indoor Team 300 • State Outdoor Championship • MBH 600 Target
Group photo of all the kids from the MBH youth Bowfishing tournament. (Photo: Courtesy of Missouri Bow Hunters)
MBH has been a long-standing affiliate with the Conservation Federation of Missouri and was instrumental in three very successful Missouri Department of Conservation programs; Operation Game Thief (OGT) Share the Harvest, and Missouri Archery in the Schools Program (MONASP). They are still working for bowhunters rights today. To learn more about MBH visit their website at www. mobowhunters.org.
Affiliate Organizations Anglers of Missouri, Inc. Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Audubon Society of Missouri Bass Slammer Tackle Big Game Hunters, Inc. Boone's Lick Chapter Missouri Master Naturalist Burroughs Audubon Society of Greater Kansas City Capital City Fly Fishers Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment Deer Creek Sportsman's Club, Inc. Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri Forest Releaf of Missouri Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Garden Club of St. Louis Gateway Chapter Trout Unlimited Greenbelt Land Trust of Mid-Missouri Greenway Network, Inc. Katy Land Trust L-A-D Foundation Lincoln University Wildlife Club Mid-Missouri Outdoor Dream Mid-Missouri Trout Unlimited Midwest Diving Council Mississippi Valley Duck Hunters Association Missouri Association of Meat Processors Missouri Atlatl Association Missouri BASS Federation Nation Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative Missouri Bow Hunters Association
Missouri Chapter of the American Fisheries Society Missouri Chapter of the Wildlife Society Missouri Chapter Soil & Water Conservation Society Missouri Coalition for the Environment Missouri Community Forestry Council Missouri Conservation Agents Association Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Consulting Foresters Association Missouri Ducks Unlimited State Council Missouri Forest Products Association Missouri Grouse Chapter of QUWF Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association Missouri Hunters for Fair Chase Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, Inc. Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation Missouri Native Seed Association Missouri Outdoor Communicators Missouri Parks & Recreation Association Missouri Parks Association Missouri Prairie Foundation Missouri River Bird Observatory Missouri River Relief Missouri Smallmouth Alliance Missouri Society of American Foresters Missouri Sport Shooting Association Missouri State Campers Association Missouri State Chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association Missouri State University Bull Shoals Field Station Missouri Taxidermist Association
Missouri Trappers Association Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association Missouri Whitetails Unlimited MU Wildlife and Fishing Science Graduate Student Organization Mule Deer Foundation North Side Division Conservation Federation Open Space Council of the Saint Louis Region Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc. Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club Perry County Sportsman Club Pomme de Terre Chapter Muskies, Inc. Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc. Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever River Bluffs Audubon Society Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association South Side Division Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers Springfield Plateau Chapter Missouri Master Naturalist St. Louis Audubon Society Student Air Rifle Program Tipton Farmers & Sportsman's Club Tri-Lakes Fly Fishers Troutbusters of Missouri United Bow Hunters of Missouri Walnut Council & Other Fine Hardwoods Wecomo Sportsman's Club Wild Elk Institute of Missouri Windsor Lake Rod & Gun Club
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Member News
Pull for Conservation: Branson Third Sporting Clays Event Hosted by Electric Cooperatives
T
he Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) is hosting its inaugural Pull for Conservation: Branson sporting clays event on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at the Bass Pro Shops’ new Outdoor Academy. This event is made possible by the event’s title sponsors, which include White River Valley Electric Cooperative, Sho-Me Power Electric Cooperative and KAMO Power. This shoot is the third event in the Electric Cooperative – Conservation Federation of Missouri sporting clays event series, preceded by Pull for Conservation: St. Joseph, sponsored by NW Electric Power Cooperative and Pull for Conservation: Boonville, sponsored by Central Missouri Electric Cooperative. Pull for Conservation events are awareness and fundraising events for the CFM’s conservation mission. “The Electric Cooperatives have been a steadfast supporter of CFM and our conservation mission for many years. The Pull for Conservation partnership shoots have been an outstanding example of their dedication to the partnership, and we wouldn’t be able to host these without their support,” said Brandon Butler. “Shooting sports is a large part of Missouri’s history and outdoor heritage and we’re glad to further that across the state. Hosted at The Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Academy, the Pull for Conservation: Branson is a top tier shooting event. Designed for all skill-levels, this is the ideal destination for family and group activities. It offers training and experience in shooting sports all in front of the stunning backdrop of Table Rock Lake.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
(Photo: Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Academy)
“The Outdoor Academy is truly a world-class facility and we strongly encourage everyone to join us for what is sure to be the premiere shooting event of the year in Missouri,” said Tyler Schwartze, CFM Events Manager. This event will be limited to 24 teams. Early bird registration includes $1,500 for a four-shooter team. Four-shooter packages include, firearms for use (if you don’t have your own), shells, golf cart, shooting instructor, breakfast and lunch. A and B Lewis Class scoring will take place with winners taking home hunting and fishing trips, firearms, outfitters packages and much more! All participants become annual CFM members.
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Schedule of Events
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Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class 5#% 1st Place: 5#% 2nd Place: 5#% 3rd Place:
Mail Registration to: CFM, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101 call 800 575-2322 PS HP POMJOF BU DPOGFENP PSH QVMM GPS DPOTFSWBUJPO CSBOTPO 4QPOTPS Name: @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ Teammate’s Name: @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ 5FBNNBUFhT /BNF @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ 5FBNNBUFhT /BNF @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ 5FBNNBUFhT /BNF @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________@__ City: _______________________________________________@__ State: ___________________ Zip: ___________________ Phone: (___________) ___________________________________ &NBJM: ___________________________________________________________________________________@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@__
Call (800) 575-2322 for RVFTUJPOT
Total Payment Enclosed: $_____________________
We are a proud sponsor of Conservation Federation
Specializing in native grass seed, wildflower seed and live plants. CRP Mixes—Custom Restoration Mixes—Prairie Mixes Butterfly, Bee and Hummingbird pollinator mixes _________________________ Call to order your seed now for a dormant season plan�ng. Recommended planting dates for pollinators are from November 15—March 15
636-357-6433
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Supplying local ecotype seed for your region
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Road trip. We didn’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.
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Member News
CLC Calls for Applications
I
t’s that time of year again and I don’t mean hunting season, although I know many of us are ready for that to begin as well. It’s time for high school juniors and seniors, and college students to apply for CFM’s Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC). CLC’s mission is to engage youth in sustaining the conservation of our natural resources while developing the next generation of conservation leaders. CLC provides students the opportunity to learn about conservation advocacy and policy development, leadership and communication skills. Students have the unique opportunity to interact and network with all levels of resource professionals in the conservation field. The CLC program is highly regarded statewide and, for past participants, has led to internship and job opportunities. By volunteering in conservation events and CLC activities throughout the year, members also create lifetime friendships. Jen Sampsell, CFM’s Education and Outreach Coordinator said “We are excited to meet our next class of conservationists that want to get involved and make a difference while gaining valuable skills that will be used in a future workplace.” Students can apply online now at confedmo.org/clcapplication-form/ or contact Jen Sampsell at jsampsell@ confedmo.org or 573-634-2322. Applicants must demonstrate achievement in organized conservation activities and will be required to submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor, or a current CLC or CFM member. We must all work together to ensure a bright future for conservation. Please share this with someone you think would benefit from this program.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
(Top) CLC students help clean a stream with Missouri Stream Teams. (Photo: Courtesy of CFM) (Bottom) CLC students get to work first hand on conservation efforts around the state. (Photo: Courtesy of CFM)
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Feature Story
Fly Fishing a Dropper Rig Increases Hook Ups
A
dropper rig is made of two flies tied in tandem, one above the other. It is not commonly used among fly fishermen, because many mistakenly think it is difficult to fish on a fly rod. The dropper rig, does, however increase the number of hook ups, and ultimately, increases the number of trout caught on any given fishing trip. Damon Spurgeon, of Rolla, is an expert fly fisherman, and a huge fan of dropper rigs. “I use dropper rigs a lot,” he said. “They are relatively easy to fish, once you use them for a while.”
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Having fished since the young age of four, Spurgeon, has had 30 plus years to try out a lot of fishing methods. “I began fly fishing pretty young,” he said. “My dad, Dave, is a superb fly fisherman, so fly fishing came naturally to me. I watched him closely long before I took it up.” Dave cut his fly fishing teeth at Maramec Spring Park, not far from his St. James home. “Living close to the park gave me a lot of opportunity to fish and to practice fly fishing,” Dave said. “It took a while to get the rhythm down, but once I did, I was hooked for life.”
Feature Story “There is something special about fly fishing,” Damon stated. “I know everyone these days has seen the movie “A River Runs Through It.” The romance of fly fishing had been written about centuries before the movie, but the movie certainly brought fly fishing to the forefront in American culture. People flocked to the sport in droves.” As a matter of fact, fly fishing equipment sales shot up 700 percent in a few short years following the debut of “A River Runs Through It.” Damon’s fly fishing skills haven’t landed him a movie role just yet. However, he is on staff with “Outside Again Adventures TV - Online,” as their fly fishing expert. “I love to fly fish and working with the show gives me another excuse to go,” he said. Damon demonstrated both the tying and fishing of a dropper rig while filming an episode for the show recently, on the Meramec River. “There is good trout fishing on the Meramec all the way from Maramec Spring Park to Scott’s Ford,” he said. “Because of time restraints, I normally fish right at the confluence of the Maramec Spring Park Spring branch and the Meramec River. The river is loaded with fish there.” Damon took a few minutes to demonstrate tying a dropper to the butt end of a leader. He quickly tied a triple surgeon’s knot topped with a simple overhand knot. The overhand knot forced the dropper line to stand perpendicular to the leader. This configuration helped the dropper line stay separated from the leader, while in the water. The separation reduced tangles and gave a better sight picture of both flies to fish in the stream. Stripping fly line from his reel as he waded into the clear, cold water of the Meramec River, Damon explained why he chose the spot to fish. “I fish here for three reasons,” he said. “First, it is close at hand, just feet from the park boundary. Second, there are lots of fish here. Besides what is normally stocked in the river by the Missouri Department of Conservation, fish regularly move downstream out of the park and into the river. Third, I have the best of two worlds here. The colder water of the spring branch collides with the warmer water of the river. I catch a lot of fish on the seam of the two water flows.” (Left) Damon Spurgeon often fly fishes with a dropper rig just below Maramec Spring Park on the Meramec River. (Right) Having fished since the age of four, Damon is very effective on Missouri’s trout streams. (Photos: Bill Cooper)
Damon stripped 30 feet of fly line from his reel and cast his dropper rig 30 feet quartering upstream. He had tied on an olive scud as a point fly and a bead head pheasant tail nymph on the dropper line 12 inches above the point fly. A small indicator marked the line four feet above the dropper. Damon’s first cast landed lightly on the surface of the moving water. He mended his line quickly to give the flies as natural adrift as possible. He followed the indicator by holding his fly rod head high and swinging it downstream as the rig drifted. Midway through the second drift, the indicator disappeared and Damon lifted his rod. An immediate arc formed in the 4-weight fly rod. “Good fish,” he said happily. The fly rod arched again less than three minutes later. A hefty brown trout had eaten the dropper fly, a bead head pheasant tail nymph, proving rather quickly that Damon’s dropper rig is an efficient fly fishing tool. Only minutes later, Damon’s fly rod bent over again. He quietly slid his net under the wriggling fish and smugly asked what I thought about his dropper rig, as he released the trout to fight another day. The fishing slowed and Damon moved 20 feet downstream. He tied two new flies on his dropper rig. “Light conditions have changed,” he said. “I like to fish flies with brighter colors as the light gets stronger.” Damon repeated his catch rate of his first position. There is no doubt that the dropper rig works. As we called it a day, Damon mentioned that his dad, Dave, utilizes a different method of fly fishing. They sometimes have their “discussions” about it. But, that’s another story. Bill Cooper SEPTEMBER - 2017
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SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Outdoor News
Time for Migration Magic
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he calendar on the wall above my desk still reads August, but there’s a distinct hint of fall in the air outside my open window. Yes, I said open window. Decidedly cooler temps have sent my thoughts racing to days afield enjoying September pursuits — dove, teal and archery deer seasons are just around the corner, a prelude to the magic that is fall in Missouri. But September also brings us another one of nature’s magical events: the migration of the monarch butterfly. This creature’s journey starts in mid-August in the north, when the first members of the migratory generation, known as the “Methuselah generation,” begin emerging. These butterflies face a long and arduous journey south to the oyamel fir forests in the mountains of Mexico, a place last visited by their great-great-grandparents. How a creature that weighs no more than a standard paper clip can travel thousands of miles to a place it’s never been is truly one of the greatest mysteries of the natural world. Here in Missouri, the monarch migration reaches its crescendo in mid-to-late September. The butterflies traveling through the Show-Me State fuel up along the route, sipping nectar from asters, goldenrod and other fall-blooming plants. Traveling during the day only, they congregate at night in a roost. Witnessing hundreds if not thousands of monarchs together en masse is a spectacle like few others. If we are to ensure that this magical migration continues for generations to come, we must act now. Officials estimate that the monarch population has decreased by 90 percent during the past two decades. The main culprit? Habitat loss.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Monarchs require milkweed plants to lay their eggs and feed their young, but milkweed isn’t as prevalent as it once was on our landscape. As adults, the butterflies eat nectar, but native flowers that once splashed color across our state aren’t nearly as abundant. As a monarch, it’s hard to survive if you don’t know where you’ll find your next meal. Fortunately, there are several opportunities available for those interested in establishing or enhancing monarch and pollinator habitat on their farms or hunting properties. Among these is the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which just opened enrollment for the 2018 fiscal year. Administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the program offers both technical and financial assistance for practices beyond traditional soil and water conservation. Today, you can sign up for EQIP specifically to help monarchs through the Monarch Butterfly Habitat Development Project. This fall, NRCS also will be administering a Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) project for monarchs. Working hand in hand with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this RCPP is focused on improving working lands for monarchs. The deadline to sign up for both programs is November 17. As you sit in your deer stand, teal blind or dove field this month, keep an eye out for migrating monarchs. And if you haven’t already, consider enrolling a portion of your acreage in EQIP. Visit www.mo.nrcs.usda.gov or stop by your local USDA Service Center to learn more.
Jason Jenkins Coordinator, Missourians for Monarchs (Photo: Terry Feil)
Outdoor News
Certified Wildlife Habitat®
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ecognize your commitment to wildlife and certify your yard, balcony container garden, schoolyard, work landscape, or roadside greenspace into a Certified Wildlife Habitat®. It is fun, easy, and makes a big difference for neighborhood wildlife. By creating a natural garden with native plants, you are providing essential elements of wildlife habitat: food, water, cover and a place for wildlife to raise their young. Add a water source – such as a birdbath – and follow sustainable gardening practices, and your garden will not only be wildlife-friendly, but it will qualify as a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat®. Together the National Wildlife Federation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri realize every habitat garden is a step toward replenishing resources for wildlife locally and along migratory corridors. In addition, a portion of your application processing fee supports the Conservation Federation of Missouri and the National Wildlife Federation's programs to inspire others to make a difference and address declining habitat for bees, butterflies, birds, amphibians and other wildlife. Fee is waived for schools Pre-K to Grade 12. Visit nwf.org/garden to commit to wildlife and certify today! Release Courtesy of NWF (Photo: Courtesy of NWF)
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Agency News
MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION MDC Expands Deer Feeding Ban to 41 Counties in Response to CWD
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he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has expanded restrictions on feeding deer and placing minerals for deer from 29 to 41 counties to help limit the spread of the deadly deer disease called chronic wasting disease (CWD). The 41 counties comprise MDC’s CWD Management Zone. According to the Wildlife Code of Missouri, the placement of grain, salt products, minerals, and other consumable natural and manufactured products used to attract deer is prohibited yearround within counties of the CWD Management Zone. Exceptions are: • Feed placed within 100 feet of any residence or occupied building; • Feed placed in such a manner to reasonably exclude access by deer; and • Feed and minerals present solely as a result of normal agricultural or forest management, or crop and wildlife food production practices. The 12 new counties are: Barry, Benton, Cedar, Dade, Hickory, Ozark, Polk, St. Clair, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, Stone, and Taney. They join these 29 existing counties of the CWD Management Zone: Adair, Boone, Callaway, Carroll, Chariton, Cole, Cooper, Crawford, Franklin, Gasconade, Jefferson, Knox, Linn, Livingston, Macon, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Osage, Putnam, Randolph, Schuyler, Scotland, Shelby, St. Charles, St. Louis, Sullivan, Warren, and Washington. CWD is a 100-percent fatal disease that is spread from deer to deer and kills all deer it infects. The disease has no vaccine or cure. For more information on CWD, visit www.mdc.mo.gov/cwd.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Image of Kansas deer showing symptoms of CWD. (Photo by Mike Hopper, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism)
“CWD is spread from deer to deer and the potential for transmission increases when deer gather in larger, concentrated numbers,” said MDC Wildlife Disease Coordinator Jasmine Batten. “Feeding deer or placing minerals for deer unnaturally concentrates the animals and can help spread the deadly disease.” Batten noted that CWD is still relatively rare in Missouri with 42 known cases in free-ranging deer. “We are working with conservation partners such as hunters, landowners, taxidermists, and others to find cases and limit its spread to more deer in new places,” she said. She added that deer infected with CWD do not always look sick. Symptoms include excessive salivation, drooping head/ears, tremors, emaciation, and change in behavior such as a lack of fear of humans and a lack of coordination. It can take months or years for a deer infected with CWD to show symptoms. However, an infected deer can spread the disease while appearing healthy.
Agency News
MDC Need Huntersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Help with CWD Sampling in 25 Counties
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he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) needs the help of deer hunters around the state in the ongoing battle against chronic wasting disease (CWD). MDC is requiring hunters who harvest deer in any of 25 select counties of its CWD Management Zone during the opening weekend of the fall firearms deer season (Nov. 11 and 12) to present their harvested deer at one of 56 MDC sampling stations so tissue samples can be taken to test the animals for CWD. The 25 mandatory CWD sampling counties are: Adair, Barry, Benton, Cedar, Cole, Crawford, Dade, Franklin, Hickory, Jefferson, Knox, Linn, Macon, Moniteau, Ozark, Polk, St. Charles, St. Clair, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, Stone, Sullivan, Taney, Warren, and Washington.
MDC is requiring hunters who harvest deer in 25 select counties of its CWD Management Zone during the opening weekend of fall firearms season to present their harvested deer at one of 56 MDC sampling stations. MDC has also expanded restrictions on feeding and placing minerals for deer. (Photo: MDC)
Sampling locations will be open from 7:30 a.m. until at least 8 p.m. Deer must be presented by the hunter who harvested the animal. Deer should be Telechecked and may be field dressed before being taken to a sampling station. Hunters will be asked to identify the location the deer was harvested. Hunters also have the option of presenting just the deer head with about six inches of neck attached. The cape may also be removed from the animal prior to being taken to a sampling station as long as about six inches of the neck is left attached.
Missouri offers some of the best deer hunting in the country, and deer hunting is an important part of many Missourians' lives and family traditions. Deer hunting is also an important economic driver in Missouri and gives a $1 billion annual boost to the state and local economies. CWD has the potential to greatly reduce deer numbers and deer hunting over time for Missouri's nearly 520,000 deer hunters and almost two million wildlife watchers.
CWD sampling takes only a few minutes and consists of cutting an incision across the throat of harvested deer to remove lymph nodes for testing. Tissue samples are sent to an independent lab for testing. Hunters will be given a card with information on getting free test results for their deer after samples are processed. MDC will also offer voluntary CWD sampling opportunities throughout the deer hunting season at more than 55 participating taxidermists and designated MDC offices in and around the CWD Management Zone. Get more information on CWD sampling locations from MDCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2017 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, and online at www.mo.gov/cwd.
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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80TH ANNIVERSARY OPEN HOUSES
Join Director Sara Parker Pauley and local leaders to celebrate our history and share your ideas about Missouri’s conservation future. No registration required. Learn more at
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Yea vation Conser
mdc.mo.gov/openhouse
JOIN MDC FROM 6–8 P.M. AT THE FOLLOWING OPEN HOUSES:
AUG. 8
SEPT. 26
Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center
Leah Spratt 101 (Kemper Recital Hall)
2289 County Park Drive in Cape Girardeau
AUG. 10
OCT. 10
Runge Conservation Nature Center
Springfield Conservation Nature Center
330 Commerce Drive in Jefferson City f
Trees I UR MISF SO G ield
uide
Don Kurz
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
A special gift for the first 80 guests at each location
Missouri Western State University 4525 Downs Drive in St. Joseph
4601 S. Nature Center Way in Springfield
AUG. 14
OCT. 12
Northeast Regional Office
Twin Pines Conservation Education Center
3500 S. Baltimore in Kirksville
SEPT. 7 Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center 11715 Cragwold Road in Kirkwood
20086 Highway 60 in Winona
OCT. 26 Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center 4750 Troost Ave in Kansas City
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Oudoor News
Conservation Commission Welcomes New Commissioner Nicole Wood
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overnor Eric Greitens announced on July 31 the appointment of long-time conservationist and outdoor enthusiast Nicole Wood to the Missouri Conservation Commission. The Governor has appointed Wood to a term that expires June 30, 2023. Wood replaces James T. Blair, IV, of St. Louis whose Commission appointment expired. Wood’s appointment will be subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate. Wood is the director of operations at Woodland Operations and Maintenance, where she is involved in the daily management of 20,000 acres of land in the Missouri Ozarks. She is only the fifth woman appointed to the Conservation Commission in the Department’s 80-year history. “Nicole’s passion for the outdoors and her strong business acumen will be extremely beneficial to the Commission’s ongoing work in strategic planning, budget guidance, and Wildlife Code regulations,” said Missouri Department of Conservation Director Sara Parker Pauley. Wood serves on the boards of the National Wildlife Federation, Conservation Federation of Missouri, Parkland Hospital Foundation, and the National Wildlife Federation Endowment. She and her family share a passion for the outdoors. “Missouri has the best Department of Conservation in the United States and, to be part of that as a commissioner is an incredible honor,” Wood said. “I look forward to working with all the commissioners, staff and citizens on continuing to make the Department the best in the country.” Her interest in the outdoors started at a young age while on family hunting and fishing trips. She enjoys floating, rafting, kayaking or just sitting on a gravel bar. Wood also has a family history of commitment to conservation with her father, Howard Wood, serving as commissioner from 1997 to 2003.
MDC welcomes Nicole Wood as new commissioner to the Missouri Conservation Commission. Wood and her turkey harvest from this past spring turkey season. (Photo: Courtesy of MDC)
The Missouri Conservation Commission controls, manages, restores, conserves and regulates the bird, fish, game, forestry and all wildlife resources of the state, including hatcheries, sanctuaries, refuges, reservations and all other property owned, acquired or used for such purposes, as well as the acquisition and establishment of those properties. Release Courtesy of MDC
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Outdoor News
Photography Book Captures the Wild and Wonderful of Missouri
M
att Miles has produced a masterpiece. Missouri Wild and Wonderful is a coffee table book collection of photography captured over the course of 20 years. Detailed descriptions accompany some of the more remarkable shots. Perhaps nearly as impressive as the photography is the diversity of locations where the treasures were taken. Counties are represented from every region of the state amongst the book’s 142 images. “The purpose of the book is to help highlight the natural resources of our state, some of the most interesting and unique things we are blessed with here,” Miles said. An environmental consultant primarily working with electric utilities, Miles resides just outside of Springfield. He and his wife have three daughters. Miles said, “If someone would have told me years ago that taking pictures would cut into my fishing time, I would have never believed them.” He claims his photography is still a hobby, but the work begs to differ. This is as professional as photography books come. The quality of the book, and especially the thick stock paper sets this work apart. Miles says after just being outside and witnessing so many neat experiences as a sportsman, he decided to buy a camera and capture future opportunities. Now he uses his trail cameras to monitor places to shoot photography. “A common misconception about wildlife photography is that you sit in the woods for long periods of time waiting and hoping for something to come by. It’s actually much more reliant on your knowledge of the species you are pursing and using that knowledge to create an opportunity that allows you to get close. It’s very much like hunting.” Miles said. When pressed to disclose his favorite image, Miles wasn’t quick to answer. You could tell all the shots are special to him, and I think he’s hesitant to influence the perception of those who flip through the pages. Every photograph should begin on equal footing, but he answered.
“My encounters with the mammals were special. Any predator situation is memorable. But it’s the bears. They are unique, and we are blessed to have bears in our state. Now Missouri Wild and Wonderful. the numbers are growing. So, yeah, (Photo: Matt Miles) one of two bears is my favorite,” Miles said. My personal favorites are multiple landscapes of Shannon County, including the cover photo of the sun rising over the Ozark Mountains with Current River coursing through the heart of the valley. Fog rises in the distance above a colorful canopy of leaves changing. It’s fall, and a new day is born. Owls, a bobcat kitten, landscapes, skyscapes, the moon, birds, waterfalls, native flowers, a coyote’s piercing yellow eyes, a dogwood in bloom, hummingbirds in flight, a river frozen, butterfly pollinating, bald cypress swamps and so much more. This book is the sort of treasure you want to give to others who you hope appreciate the wildlife and wild places of Missouri as you do. The sort of people who are moved by the sight of a pileated woodpecker soaring through towering shortleaf pines, the aqua blue of a deep spring, snow crusted crop fields full of migrating geese, whitetail bucks and wild turkeys. It truly showcases why Missouri is so special, and why we are the lucky ones. For more information about Matt Miles’ photography and to learn more about his new book, Missouri Wild and Wonderful, visit www.MattMilesPhotography.com. See you down the trail… Brandon Butler SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Feature Story
We Are Conservation: The Next Generation
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n 1910, a great champion for the next generation of conservation, President Theodore Roosevelt said, “The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value.” I have faith that we as a nation will continue to follow President Roosevelt’s lead in conservation. That we will develop more innovative ideas for the sustainability of natural resources and conservation efforts. The challenges for conservation in this century will be many. Not the least of which will be the continued loss of and degradation of habitat as well as the unknown consequences of global environmental issues. What behaviors must we change or modify to add value to our natural resources? Who will become the great champions for the next generation of conservation? Will it be you, me, or all of us together? Based on The North American Model for Conservation: Here is What I Believe: 1. I believe that our natural resources and our experiences in nature connect all mankind together in feelings of joy for the beauty of the natural world. It is awareness of and sensitivity to that beauty that unites us.
Copper Clapp holding a fish he caught at his uncles farm. (Photo: Courtesy of Terry T. Clapp)
Why I believe it: The awe and joy seen in a small child’s smile as they splash water out of every puddle of water they can get their feet or hands in. 2. I believe the mental and physical well being of all mankind suffers if we do not use the best practices of human kind to provide a quality environment for ourselves and all wildlife.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Why I believe it: I have felt the firm wet sand of a beach beneath my feet. On that beach, I have seen evidence of life in a world that is ours and it fills me with a sense of reverence for all things living.
Feature Story 3. I believe that hunting, fishing, and trapping have great cultural as well as historical significance in American history. The continued practice of these activities within the bounds of current laws using licenses, fees, and taxes on sporting goods are critical to the management of wildlife resources. Why I believe it: Proper wildlife management restoration efforts financed primarily by hunting and fishing license revenues and in some places special taxes for conservation have brought back numerous game and non-game species to huntable and viewable populations all while expanding habitat. 4. I believe that all responsible officers of government and every citizen must design, support, and maintain measures that insure the conservation of all our lands, water, and wildlife resources. Why I believe it: Observation of the impact of the loss and degradation of habitat surrounds us in rural settings as well as urban settings. Although I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see or measure many of the negative variables that have immediate impact on my local and national environment I know they exist. I support positive efforts by government agencies and informed citizen organizations to conserve all our natural resources and provide conservation leadership. 5. I believe that governments, private landowners, and individual citizen stewards by partnering together will find that no task looms too large for the next generation of conservation. Why I believe it: Successful restoration of habitat, along with associated wildlife rebounds have been taking place throughout the world. Unprecedented cooperation and collaboration between private landowners, non-profit foundations, citizen stewards, state, national, and world agencies move efforts on behalf of natural resources forward. 6. I believe that every citizen should be able to step into nature with their entitlement of clean air, pure water, teeming wildlife, and landscapes open and free. Why I believe it: This is the heritage of not only every American but everyone on earth. Nature has provided us freely with this great endowment.
7. I believe that just as diversity is important in society so it is that biodiversity is of greatest importance. Why I believe it: I have seen a doodlebug, a cocklebur, and beggar lice. 8. I believe that knowledge, conservation education, science, and best practices of the management of habitats including waters, land and wildlife will be key for the next generation of conservation. Why I believe it: U.S. wildlife agencies, along with state wildlife resources agencies and other groups are providing formal scientific research based approaches for conservation efforts. Developing new approaches, cooperative efforts beyond agency boundaries and expanding partnerships should be at the forefront of conservation efforts. 9. I believe that I have a responsibility of stewardship for the natural resources in my home, yard, city, state and nation for the next generation of conservation. Why I believe it: I should do only those things that I would have my children do. We all must mentor for nature. 10. I believe in the economy of nature and that inquiry into the wonders of our natural world provides not only our greatest insights but also the greatest hope. Why I believe it: Everything in nature seems to have a purpose. There is some great nature operational action plan in force. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure we along with wildlife and other natural resources are all a part of that plan. We are the leaders.
We are the Next Generation of Conservation My beliefs do not represent a lone voice in the wilderness but are built upon a foundation of conservation principles that I see an informed citizenry giving their full support. My beliefs are not new but deeply rooted in the history of our great nation as noted by President Rooseveltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remarks one hundred years ago. I believe that by our united participation and involvement in conservation efforts no task or challenge looms too large for us, the champions of conservation for the next generation.
Terry T. Clapp
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Oudoor News
Fall: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
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he local weather forecast is calling for highs in the 50’s, with crisp, cool mornings and beautiful sunshine. Football is in full swing. The MLB postseason is starting. NHL hockey will start in the coming week. Sycamores and honey locusts are exchanging chlorophyll for brilliant carotenoids. Yes, fall is here. And I am once again happy. Every year, I ebb and flow with each season earth has to offer. Summer is grand. Spring is promising. Winter is maddeningly beautiful. I enjoy each for their intricacies and offerings, but the fourth season, fall, holds a place in the deepest part of my soul. Ever since I can remember, fall has brought out the best in me. It brings out an excitement, a childish giddiness. The first cold, October wind might as well be a signal beaming high in the sky for things to come. Once it hits, I know good things are in store. Stepping outside on the first brisk morning of fall brings a refreshing and inspiring burst of energy to my psyche. Suddenly I enjoy waking up just a little more. It is especially strong when I walk through the dark woods, encompassed by a New Moon, on the way to my deer stand the first weekend of fall. This time is unlike the previous year’s hunts. I can see my breath. Leaves crunch beneath my feet. These leaves are not from fall’s past. They are recently dropped. I can hear the woods around me with unprecedented clarity. A cleansing of the soul occurs. I am rejuvenated, refreshed. Anticipation for the imminent increase in deer activity
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
consumes me. As the sun peeks over the ridge, I begin to see the concrete transformation signs, manifesting in sharp reds, yellows and oranges. I am at peace, if only for just that day or weekend. For some reason, I always connect fall to our founding as a nation. What did Thomas Jefferson and John Adams think when they experienced the first fall in Monticello and Quincy? I suspect it is strikingly similar to my own thoughts. Fall purifies my mind. It brings everything Mother Nature has to offer, and I am wowed each year. The feeling is a high no synthetic drug will ever produce, and cannot be replicated. The uniqueness of this season sets it apart from its siblings, and that is why we appreciate it so much. Every year I relish the thought of waking up on that first cold, October morning. Tomorrow, the feeling returns. So, break out your pumpkin beer, Halloween decorations, shotguns, rifles and bows. The season will not last forever, but it will last forever in your soul. Fall is here, folks, and, as always, it promises to be a good one! Ryan Miloshewski (Top) Fall is just around the corner. (Photo: Ryan Miloshewski) (Left) A sight for sore eyes in the fall. (Photo: Ryan Miloshewski)
Oudoor News
Missouri’s First Ducks Unlimited Varsity Chapter Not Wasting Time
M
issouri’s first DU Varsity high school chapter has taken flight with longtime Greenwing members eager to leave their mark on conservation.
The Ozark Tigers Varsity Chapter at Ozark High School, in southwest Missouri’s city of Ozark, was established this year by longtime DU members Dylan Pritchard and Tanner Lambeth and new DU member Colton Cox. Dylan’s father, Jason Pritchard, is a volunteer regional coordinator and member of the Christian County Chapter of Ducks Unlimited that is advising the new chapter. “We’ve been doing a Greenwing table at Christian County events since we were 11 or 12,” Dylan said. “I told my Dad I’m ready to step up.” Ducks Unlimited began to promote the DU Varsity program on a national level in 2013. Since then, the number of active chapters in the United States has increased steadily. In 2016, 53 chapters from 22 states were responsible for raising more than $347,000 in event income for wetland conservation. “I’m an outdoors person,” Dylan said. “Once I found out I could give back to the environment and wetlands, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.” Despite having just started, the group has already held a successful raffle at the school which raised $1,200. They are planning a September outdoor banquet and hope to promote Ducks Unlimited with future school events. “It’s more than just raising money,” said Jason Pritchard. “It’s bringing exposure to Ducks Unlimited, and there are a lot of things we can do to educate people on the outdoors.” Today, DU Varsity chapters play an increasingly important role in Ducks Unlimited's conservation mission. DU recognizes that a vibrant, strong high school program is the key to a healthy future for wetlands conservation.
The first meeting of the Ozark Tigers Varsity Chapter at Ozark High School. (Photo: Jason Pritchard)
DU Varsity members take part in many leadership and networking opportunities in addition to supporting DU's mission and learning about conservation. DU Varsity members participate for a range of reasons, including social functions, school pride, conservation education, college resume building and leadership development. Mark Horobetz, DU’s manager of youth and education programs, is impressed with how quickly the high school chapter was established. “It’s going to be a very successful chapter. They have the support of the local chapter and the local community, which is critical for sustainability,” Horobetz said. Jason Pritchard is proud his son is continuing the DU volunteer and conservation tradition. “For conservation, I don’t think there’s a greater cause out there than DU,” Pritchard said. “With wetlands being changed for many different reasons, we’ve got to secure it for waterfowl and future generations of waterfowl hunters." Release Courtesy of Ducks Unlimited
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Feature Story
Squirrel: The Woods’ Jamón Ibérico de Bellota
L
ike many other small game, squirrel has lost popularity in today hunting culture compared to the not-so-distant past. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, 218,000 hunters harvested just over 3.1 million squirrels in 1972. In 2014, a few more than 65,000 hunters harvested just under 850,000 squirrels. Having grown up in a bird hunting family, I admit I was guilty of being a non-squirrel hunter. It was my friend, Ryan Diener, who got me interested in squirrel hunting during a discussion on habitat restoration. In the course of the conversation, he causally mentioned he harvests approximately 100 squirrels a year.
The modular design is easily maintained, requiring only a coin as a tool for field-stripping. The action of the 512 American is an aluminum alloy upper receiver that secures the barrel and bolt assembly and a fiberglass-reinforced polymer lower half that houses the trigger mechanism and detachable magazine. The 512 shares magazines and scope rings with the CZ 455 making it the perfect complement to a bolt-action rifle. The barrel is the same accurate hammer forged barrel found on all CZs, topped with adjustable sights. Or, in less technical terms, the 512 is a well-made, easy to use, and effective .22, perfect for hunting or recreational shooting.
“Ryan, why?!” I asked incredulously. “They’re delicious,” he said.
Once Dave sent the gun, first thing was getting it sighted in. Hunters typically have different guns for specific purposes, and at times the choices seem overwhelming, but holding the elegant little 512, I remembered there is such a nostalgic and effective simplicity in shooting a .22. I’m more used to pointing a shotgun than aiming a rifle though, so I slipped on a Bushnell 3-9x 40mm scope. Sighting it in just felt more fun than work and with a little adjustment, we were in the 10 ring. The kid in me looked at how much light I had left and the half box of .22 shells sitting on the table and got to work setting up cans for a good old fashioned evening of plinking.
I was taken back a little at first. As a wild game foodie, I didn’t know how I could be missing such a tasty and abundant resource. I told Ryan his culinary reputation was on the line and decided to head to the woods. To hunt squirrels, you can either chase your quarry with a .22 or with a shotgun. In the interest of saving meat, I opted for a .22. My only dilemma was I hadn’t owned a .22 since I was a kid. I called Dave Miller of CZ-USA, and told him what I was up to. “Rehan, I’ve got the perfect gun for you,” he said. He was talking about the CZ’s new semi-auto 512 American rifle.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Feature Story Hunters more experienced than me compare squirrel hunting to deer hunting. You have to be patient and stealthy. I’m a bird hunter by trade, which requires extensive movement, so asking me to sit camouflaged, motionless under a tree while my dog sits in the cabin was about as fun as a second grade math class. But sitting under an oak out there in the woods, a unique thing happened. Listening to nothing and everything at the same time, after just a few minutes the woods began to dance again. Birds fluttering here, a raccoon waddling there, even a pair of ducks flew overhead. For once I wasn’t sitting in the woods freezing, cursing an old ghost buck, but instead, just enjoying casual hunting in the balmy 74-degree weather, under a wide canopy of old oaks. Squirrels are curious creatures, and between their chatter and tails flinching I thought I would see them start to appear everywhere, but their paranoia and the trees’ foliage protected their tails. At 32, I’ve already got bad eyes due to various misadventures, so I’ll have to admit when a squirrel poked its head out to see who was sitting under his tree at approximately 35 yards, the 512 working in tandem with the Bushnell scope did most of the work, for which I was thankful. Curiosity killed the cat, along with one other squirrel that morning. Now was the moment of culinary truth. Using a recipe by Hank Shaw, I fried the squirrels after a night of soaking in buttermilk and feasted. The verdict? Good. I mean, really good. I wish I had an eloquence to describe it, but Georgia Pelligrini, renowned wild game chef and author does a better job “…when you think about it, squirrels are hoarders, and after having feasted on a grove of pecans or acorns, their meat is nutty and sweet, buttery and tender. And so a fat, nut-fed squirrel is not only better tasting than any meat in the woods, it can be even better tasting, and much more economical than that Spanish pig that sells for one hundred seventy dollars per pound.” The pig she is referencing is a jamón ibérico de bellota, the most prized Spanish ham that is raised eating acorns, giving the meat its rich, complex and expensive flavor. In the end, if you are what you eat, you are in turn what they eat. After that hunt, I guess now I’m just a squirrel-hunting nut. Rehan Nana Director of Corporate Relations
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Outdoor News
Buttermilk Cottontail Recipe by Hank Shaw Directions: 1. Mix the buttermilk with all the spices except the salt and flour. Coat the squirrel with the mixture and set in a covered container overnight, or at least 4 hours.
(Photo: Holly A. Heyser)
T
his recipe can also be used using squirrel instead of rabbit. Look for Shaw’s new book, “Pheasant Quail and Cottontail” in spring 2018. Read the full recipe at www.honest-food.net. Ingredients: • 2 to 4 rabbits, cut into serving pieces • 2C buttermilk • 2T Italian seasoning, or mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano, 1 1/2 teaspoons thyme and 1 tablespoon dried parsley • 1T paprika • 1T garlic powder • 2t cayenne, or to taste • 1.5 cups flour • 1t salt • 2C vegetable oil
Snacks for the Field An army marches on its stomach, and so does the blaze orange army during hunting season. With how much gear we bring into the field, snacks have to be light, healthy, and accessible. One of the staples in any field pack is summer sausage and snack sticks; however, they are not all created equal. Burgers’ Smokehouse, a Missouri-based company, provides high quality, high protein summer sausage & snack sticks, as well as, a full selection of cured and smoked meats. Not only are they CFM supporters, but also many of their employees are outdoors enthusiasts. True to their outdoor roots, the company created a line of products with the outdoorsman in mind.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
2. When you are ready to fry, pour the oil into a large pan -- a big cast iron frying pan is ideal -- to a depth of about an inch. The general idea is you want the oil to come halfway up the side of the rabbit. Set the heat to medium-high. 3. Meanwhile, take the rabbit out of the buttermilk and let it drain in a colander. Don't shake off the buttermilk or anything, just leave it there. 4. Let the oil heat until it is about 325°F; this is the point where a sprinkle of flour will immediately sizzle. When the oil is hot, pour the flour and salt into a plastic bag and shake to combine. Put a few pieces of rabbit into the bag and shake to get it coated in flour. 5. Set the coated rabbit pieces in one layer in the hot oil so they don't touch. Fry for about 8 to 12 minutes. Fry gently -- you want a steady sizzle. Turn the rabbit pieces and fry for another 10 minutes or so, until they are golden brown. The forelegs will come out first, followed by the loin, and the hind legs will come out last. You will probably need to fry in batches, so just leave the uncooked rabbit pieces in the colander until you are ready to flour them up and fry them. Don't let floured pieces sit. 6. When the rabbit is ready, rest them on a rack set over a paper towel to drain away any excess oil. If you are cooking in batches, set this in a warm oven. Few things start a hunt off better than bacon in the morning. Burgers’ is synonymous with bacon and was even awarded “Best Dry Cured Bacon” at the Annual Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival in Iowa, a few years back. During your hunt, pack a few of their snack sticks, including the wild game sampler, which consists of elk, venison and buffalo varieties. No refrigeration is needed until after opening, so throw them in your pack and hit the field. Also, if you come back empty-handed, try one of the wild game samplers, which consist of pheasant, quail, duck, elk, venison and old fashion country ham. Remember, the Burgers' team ships around the country, so whether for yourself or for a gift, for the hunter who has everything, you can find a full selection by visiting www. burgersmokehouse.com.
Outdoor News
Destination – Aberdeen, South Dakota
S
ome say there are really only two seasons in South Dakota — hunting and fishing. If hunting or fishing is your passion, set your destination for Aberdeen, South Dakota. The northeastern part of South Dakota provides some of the best outdoor adventures in the nation. Just imagine the “Cast and Blast” — a true South Dakota experience. Try your luck at reeling in the “big one” during the morning and then the thrill of the hunt in the afternoon. What remains largely a secret are the plentiful opportunities public lands provide to hunters who are willing to work for their birds. Aberdeen and the surrounding area pride themselves on having over 208,930 acres of public land. In fact, the quality and quantity of public hunting options in South Dakota make for one the state’s greatest assets as a pheasant hunting destination. In many cases, the heavy cover found on state or federal hunting areas is some of the highest quality habitat available for pheasants and other wildlife for miles around. In addition to the public lands, there is also more than 114,000 acres of private hunting lands available through guides, outfitters and landowners. So needless to say, there is plenty of room for all hunters to bag their limit and enjoy the hunt. Hunting is a long-standing tradition in this area. In fact, many look at the pheasant “opener” as a verifiable holiday. For more information on available hunting areas visit www. HuntFishSD.com. Don’t overlook the late season for pheasant hunting. It’s a simple fact that when the mercury drops as pheasant season wears on, fewer and fewer pheasant hunters head to the fields. In reality, chasing pheasants is a fair-weather affair for a majority of hunters — both residents and nonresidents. But for those willing to head out later in the season and brave a little cold and snow, the chance at a highquality longtail hunt is more than worth the effort. Aberdeen businesses roll out the “orange” carpet with a generous amount of Midwest hospitality to welcome hunters. There are several hotels in Aberdeen as well as campgrounds and hunting lodges throughout the area to accommodate hunters — and their dogs.
(Photo: Courtesy of Aberdeen Area Convention and Visitors Bureau)
When it comes to fishing, you can cast or drop your line any time of the year. From the Glacial Lakes Region, to numerous streams and ponds, there are great fishing locations within a short drive of Aberdeen. South Dakota offers excellent fishing for walleyes, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappies, catfish, perch, panfish, trout and salmon. Nearly 30 species of fish provide anglers a variety of adventures throughout the state. Not only does the region provide some of the best pheasant hunting and fishing in the nation, but it also offers excellent goose, duck and deer hunting. Climate and habitat conditions have been extremely favorable the last three years for the growth of pheasant, waterfowl, wildlife and fish populations. With the popularity of South Dakota’s many outdoor adventures, it is never too early to make your plans. For a listing of lodging or for more information visit www.HuntFishSD.com or call the Aberdeen Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-645-3851. Release Courtesy of Aberdeen Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Outdoor News
The Three R's: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
T
he three R's all help to cut down on the amount of waste we throw away. They conserve natural resources, landfill space and energy.
Plus, the three R's save land and money that communities use to dispose of waste into landfills. Creating a new landfill has become a difficult process and more expensive due to the environmental regulations and public opposition. Missouri has a goal of reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfills by 40 percent. Everyone can help meet this goal.
It makes economic and environmental sense to reuse products. Sometimes it takes creativity: • Reuse products for the same purpose. Save paper and plastic bags, and repair broken appliances, furniture and toys. • Reuse products in different ways. Use a coffee can to pack a lunch; use a plastic microwave dinner trays as picnic dishes. • Sell old clothes, appliances, toys and furniture in garage sales or ads, or donate them to charity. • Use resealable containers rather than plastic wrap.
Recycle
Reduce
The best way to manage waste is to not produce it. This can be done by shopping carefully and being aware of a few guidelines: • Buy products in bulk. Larger, economy sized products or ones in concentrated form use less packaging and usually cost less per ounce. • Avoid over-packaged goods, especially ones packed with several materials such as foil, paper and plastic. They are difficult to recycle, plus you pay more for the package. • Avoid disposable goods, such as paper plates, cups, napkins, razors and lighters. Throwaways contribute to the problem, and cost more because they must be replaced again and again.
Reuse
Recycling is a series of steps that takes a used material and processes, re-manufactures, and sells it as a new product. Begin recycling at home and at work: • Buy products made from recycled materials. Look for the recycling symbol or ask store managers for salesman for assistance. The recycling symbol means one or two things - either the product is made of recycled materials, or the item can be recycled. For instance, many plastic containers have a recycling symbol with a numbered code that identifies what type of plastic resin it is made from. However, just because the container has this code does not mean it can be easily recycled locally. • Check collection centers and curbside pickup services to see what they accept and begin collecting these materials. These can include metal cans, newspapers, paper products, glass, plastic and oil. • Consider purchasing recycled materials at work when purchasing materials for the office supply cabinet, office equipment or manufacturing. Release Courtesy of Department of Natural Resources
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
Outdoor News
Wildfires: Prevention and Planning are Key to Protection
W
ildfires are large, uncontrolled fires that typically occur in heavily wooded areas or grassy fields, and they put homes in or surrounding these areas at risk. In 2013, the number of wildfires in the U.S. decreased, but it was one of the most destructive years in terms of loss of life and property. According to USA Today, Wildfires in Arizona caused 19 firefighters to lose their lives, and a nationwide total of $700 million in economic damage. Although the economic impact and the number of acres burned were the lowest they have been in years, the threat of wildfires is very real. If you live near an at-risk area, check out our planning tips to prevent wildfires from engulfing your property.
More than 2,500 Americans die in fires each year. (Photo: Courtesy of Shelter Insurance)
Prevention Smoky Bear said, "Only YOU can prevent wildfires," and National Geographic indicates that four out of five wildfires are started by people. Natural causes like lightning are possible, but rarer. Most of these fires are not intentionally set, but when conditions are dry, all it takes is an ignition source, high winds and dry plants or trees to spark a wildfire—even if it's an accident. While you can't control the weather, you can pay attention to when conditions are right for a wildfire to occur and avoid leaving campfires unattended, burning trash, flicking a cigarette or any other similar activities that can cause a fire to start. If your home is near a wooded area or grassy field, it could be at risk if there's a wildfire. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take: • Create a defensible space of 30-200 feet around your home. • Check the siding all around your house to be sure it isn't touching the ground. • Keep wood piles at least 30 feet from your home. • Sweep dry leaves and pine needles away from your home. • Prune trees and trim branches that are low to the ground, above the roof or near a chimney. • Install a roof with a fire classification of Class A. • Make sure your roof and gutters are clean. • Remove climbing vines from your house. • Keep the grass mowed.
If wildfires are in your area, keep your yard and landscaping wet. In addition, it may help to wet the roof if you have shake shingles. If you have anything outside that's flammable such as wooden or wicker outdoor furniture, propane tanks for grills, gas cans, etc., move them indoors so an ember cannot ignite it.
Planning Hopefully wildfires will never threaten your home, but planning for the worst can leave you with a better outcome if it happens. • Close windows and remove lightweight curtains. • Open your fireplace damper and close fireplace doors or screens. • Make sure your smoke detectors work. • Keep an adequate number of working fire extinguishers in the house and make sure everyone in the house knows how to use them. • Review your homeowners insurance policy and keep an accurate list of the contents of your home. • Know your evacuation route and have a disaster kit packed and ready to go, including a fireproof safe with all your important documents, photos, etc. Above all, if you are ordered to evacuate, heed those orders. Your house can be replaced, but your family can't. Choose safety. Release Courtesy of Shelter Insurance SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Feature Story
Deer at a Crossroads M
issouri’s deer herd stands at a crossroads. Will it be a dead end? Fifty years from now, Missourians will look back on 2017 as a watershed. Whether it will be another shining moment in our state’s illustrious conservation history or a blot on that legacy remains to be seen. The Show-Me State’s deer herd, painstakingly restored over eight decades, stands at a crossroads. Down one fork lies the unchecked spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) and the ruin of cherished hunting traditions, not to mention the $1 billion industry based on a thriving white-tailed deer herd. Going down this path is easy. Only inaction is necessary.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
In the other direction is effective management of CWD. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) knows how to do it. But this path is fraught with obstacles and hard work. The biggest obstacle is a captive-deer industry whose lawyers have effectively hamstrung MDC. The hard work involves citizens reaffirming their desire to keep conservation policy where it belongs – in the hands of their citizen-led Conservation Commission, not the legislature or the courtroom.
A White-tailed Deer doe and her fawn walk in a pool of water at Eagle Bluff Conservation Area near Columbia. (Photo: Noppadol Paothong)
Feature Story Led by the Conservation Federation, Missourians have twice proved themselves capable of meeting such challenges. In 1936, at the height of the Great Depression, they amended the state constitution to establish a nonpartisan, science-based Conservation Department. In 1976, they amended the constitution again, establishing a modest, permanent sales tax to provide stable funding for conservation programs. Today, they have a chance to amend the constitution again, this time to protect Missouri’s deer herd. But that chance is fleeting. Now is the time to act. That is what Hunters for Fair Chase (HFFC) wants to do. Formed by ardent deer hunters, HFFC has secured the Missouri Secretary of State’s approval of a ballot initiative that would re-enforce MDC’s primary authority to regulate both captive and free-ranging deer and ban the transportation of live deer, elk and other big game between commercial game farms and high-fence shooting facilities. These measures would give MDC the tools it needs to fight CWD. The practice of shipping deer hundreds of miles to kill them in fake hunts inside high fences would be bad enough if the only negative effect was to poison public opinion toward hunting. It would be bad enough if all it did was undermine the North American Model of Conservation, which vests ownership of wildlife in the states, not profiteers. But of greater concern is that artificially concentrating deer in pens and transporting them willy-nilly is spreading CWD. It is not surprising that the captive-deer industry is determined to continue with business as usual. Shooters from all over the world happily pay up to six figures to shoot deer that are artificially bred and chemically enhanced to produce unnaturally huge antlers. But private profit is not sufficient reason to destroy the wild deer resource, which is what the unregulated transportation of deer eventually will do. To put the management of deer and CWD back in MDC’s hands, HFFC must gather roughly 213,000 signatures on petitions to place the question on the ballot in 2018. Getting people to sign will be relatively easy, since an overwhelming majority of Missourians – hunters and nonhunters alike – place far higher value on the state’s wild deer resource than they do on deer farms and shooting pens. The immediate challenge is raising enough money to put petitions in front of 213,000 Missouri voters.
Three members of Missouri Hunters for Fair Chase's board of directors attended this year's CFM convention and all serve on CFM's board of directors. Chris Kossmeyer, center, is HFFC's president. Steve Jones, right, is HFFC's secretary. Jim Low, left, is a board member. Kossmeyer and Jones co-chair CFM's Chronic Wasting Disease Committee. (Photo: Courtesy of Jim Low)
Then, after clearing all the procedural hurdles to place the issue on the ballot, HFFC must defend it against the multi-million-dollar misinformation campaign that the national captive-deer industry is sure to carry out. To succeed, HFFC needs a war chest. That is the greatest challenge. Individual donors have been generous with gifts of $25 to $1,000. But at that rate, HFFC will never raise enough to match the captivedeer industry’s deep pockets. This is a race against time. Every year, CWD crops up in new places in Missouri and surrounding states. If HFFC gets the transportation ban on the ballot in 2018 and voters approve it, MDC can get back to work containing CWD. If not, it will be 2020 before another ballot initiative can be attempted. By then, CWD could be too widespread to contain. Missouri found its first case of CWD seven years ago. In Wisconsin, it took only 15 years for CWD to reach an infection rate of 40 percent in adult bucks in their core CWD area. We cannot afford to dither while CWD spreads. Missourians don’t have a history of giving up when the future of their natural resources looks bleak. This is our moment in history, when we meet the challenge of our era. You can start by reading the ballot language and CWD background information at FairChaseMissouri.com. This website also has information about how to get involved if you or someone you know can help. It is time for Missouri hunters and others who love wild white-tailed deer to fish or cut bait.
Jim Low SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Feature Story
Fall Monarch Migration Coming to Missouri
A
ugust can hurry past with summer vacations wrapping up and school starting. However, a wonderful event not to be missed is about to get underway: fall migration of the monarch butterfly. In Missouri, four generations of monarch butterflies are produced, the first being born in late May to early June. Thirty days later the second generation completes metamorphosis, and in another 30 days, the third. The fourth generation is comprised of the butterflies that come out of their chrysalises in September. Tagged male monarch nectaring on blazing star (Liatris species). (Photo: Mary Nemecek)
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
These butterflies are also known as the Super Generation as they will migrate to Mexico, overwinter there on the Oyamel fir trees in the mountains, and then fly back north next spring. Some may even make it as far north as Missouri, laying the eggs of the first generation of 2018. This exciting cycle all begins with eggs laid in August. Migration of this length by a butterfly is unique to the monarch butterflies of North America. Most other species of butterflies in Missouri will overwinter in a chrysalis or as an adult butterfly in the leaf litter. In the case of monarchs, however, they will fly thousands of miles south to Mexico arriving at the base of their overwintering grounds around November 1, the Day of the Dead.
Feature Story This timing has lead to centuries of local lore that monarchs are the souls of ancestors coming back to spend the winter with their descendents. Their arrival is an anticipated and celebrated event in the Mexican villages near the overwintering grounds. The fall migration begins in the northern part of the monarch butterflies summer range in Ontario, Canada. They begin to move south and will reach Missouri sometime in mid-September. Since it takes about 30 days from egg to butterfly, the eggs being laid now will be the butterflies of September. As the migration moves south from Canada and the northern US, monarch butterflies from Missouri will join in with peak migration in the northern half of Missouri around September 20th and a few days later in the south. Most monarchs will be through the state by the end of the first week of October. However, you may still see caterpillars or butterflies after that date. Not all monarchs born this time of year in Missouri are part of the Super Generation. Some monarchs will continue to stay and reproduce and will not migrate. They will not survive the winterâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;this kind of mortality within a species is natural. Migrating adults are fueled by the very important native nectar plants of fall. Monarchs depend on asters and goldenrodsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;especially New England aster and rigid goldenrodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to give them the energy needed to travel dozens of miles a day. Land stewards can help by not mowing nectar sources until mid-October in Missouri. While it may mean forgoing that pre-Labor Day big mowing time, preserving plants for the monarch to nectar on can make a big difference for a little butterfly on a very long journey. Many people participate in citizen science by tagging monarchs from mid-September to early October. Tags can be purchased from Monarch Watch (www.monarchwatch. org). The tags come with instructions and a log sheet to record tag numbers and information about the monarchs. In late winter, scientists go to Mexico and collect tag information and a list of collected tags is published in the spring. Tagging helps scientists and conservationists know where to focus their efforts. Monarchs tagged in Missouri are frequently recovered in Mexico, showing the important role Missouri plays in the migratory path. To learn more about plants to help the monarchs during migration go to www.grownative.org
MONARCH
DESCRIPTION On adults, the upper surfaces of the wings are rusty or tawny orange with black veins; the wing edges are black with small white spots. The undersides of wings are lighter orange or yellow-brown. The veins are darker on females, and males have a black spot on their hindwings. Larvae are white with black and yellow bands; the head is white with yellow and black markings; a pair of long, black filaments are on the thorax and a shorter pair near the end of the abdomen.
HABITAT AND Monarchs are found in a wide variety of CONSERVATION habitats: fields and grasslands, roadsides,
and urban and suburban plantings. They are famous for their annual migration to overwinter in Mexico. A variety of factors are causing the numbers of this famous species to decline. Efforts are under way to protect this species and restore its habitat. Missourians are encouraged to plant milkweeds for the larvae and flowers that supply nectar for the adults.
STATUS Declining throughout North America and may soon have protected status. Habitat loss in their overwintering territory in Mexico is one cause. Also, herbicide use throughout North America has been eliminating milkweeds, their required food plant. Especially in the Midwest, herbicide-resistant strains of crops allow farmers to eradicate nearly all weeds, including milkweeds, across vast areas, eliminating places for the monarch to breed. To conserve the monarch, we must allow milkweeds to grow.
Visit mdc.mo.gov for more information on monarchs.
Mary Nemececk Conservation Chair, Burroughs Audubon SEPTEMBER - 2017
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Feature Story
Did I Do Enough?
I
once sat by the death bed of a man I greatly loved and admired. He knew his last moments on Earth were near and slipped in and out of consciousness from drugs to make his last moments more comfortable. He looked at me during a spell when he had the clarity to think and asked, “Did I do enough?” He slipped back into deep sleep while I sat and thought about his question. "Did I do enough?” The man led a good life, serving as a Marine, working his farm and driving trucks to feed and clothe his family. He made sure his children were educated and raised in a good church. This good man lived life to the fullest, but there was more. He left a legacy of conservation for the next generation. He was the first in his region to terrace fields on the family farm to eliminate erosion. Then he explained why so all would understand and terrace their own fields. Many did. He left weed patches growing on the edge of his fields throughout winter so rabbits and quail would have a place to escape predators and survive brutal winter weather. Brushpiles were stacked throughout his timber for added wildlife cover. These same wildlife cover principles are used today by conservation groups nationwide. Ponds on his property were dug out and full of quality fish. He taught taking out panfish and returning bass over three pounds to clean up the smaller fish. This practice, several years before catch and release became popular, stopped his pond fish from stunting. There was less competition for natural food and the fish became bigger and healthier. Farmers in those days still dumped trash in hollows on their properties. He was saddened by this and hired a bulldozer to clean out trash from earlier generations, including two old cars.
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Feature Story He had a reverence for all types of wildlife. He once found a young redtailed hawk frozen in the ice on his pond. He created a leather hood for the panicked bird and used leather straps to restrain its razor-sharp talons. He gently carried the hawk to his old abandoned family home’s attic and sat it on a hastily built perch. Then he fed the hawk everyday until it regained strength and could fly away. That hawk stayed around for a couple of years and occasionally flew low over the man when he was walking in a field or driving his tractor. On another occasion, he was cleaning out a hay barn and turned over a square canvas to find a coiled and very frightened six-foot black snake. Someone suggested that they retrieve a shotgun and kill the irritated snake before it bit someone. He stopped that idea by flipping the canvas back over the snake. Then he and a family member put on leather gloves and gently pinned down the snake. He grabbed the snake behind its head while the family member grabbed its tail. Soon the unhurt snake was released in a hay field across the road to hunt rodents and other unwanted creatures. “That is a good snake,” he explained to the shocked group. “You will have less mice or rats when he is around.” Both creatures were saved by this good man in the days when hawks and snakes were killed on sight. He understood their conservation value while others just considered them nuisances. He planted sunflowers and other beneficial plants to attract butterflies and other migrators. I once sampled a benefit of his work. I was squirrel hunting his woods and walked into the middle of a monarch butterfly migration.
I sat down in the middle of thousands of monarchs. Occasionally they would all lift and then drop back down to their chosen spots. That was the last day I ever entered the woods without a camera. His woods were always manicured. He walked through the timber every fall and chose trees that would have to be cut down while leaving the best to grow. He cut out a lot of the scrub brush too, creating more brush piles for wildlife. This was a sampling of the conservation work he accomplished in a well-lived life. Mercifully he came to just before the end to find me sitting there. Once he cleared his head from deep sleep and his last smile for me creased his lips when I said: “Yes dad, you couldn’t have done it better.” Kenneth Kieser
(Left) His bass were thrown back to clean up the pond when most were eaten for dinner. (Photo: Kenneth Kieser) (Top) He worked on his timber and terracing fields throughout his life. (Photo: Kenneth Kieser)
SEPTEMBER - 2017
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