Vol75 no4 2014 by Conservation Federation

July 2014 VOL. 75, NO. 4

8th Annual Conservation Federation Sporting Clays Classic Brought to you by Conservation Federation of Missouri and Bass Pro Shops of Columbia

Friday, August 8 ~ Beginning at 5:30 ~ Bass Pro Shops, Columbia Individual Tickets: $30 Reserved Table of 8: $200 Dinner & Drinks ~ Live Music ~ Silent Auction ~ Raffle(s)

Saturday, August 9 ~ River Hills Sporting Clays, Boonville, MO Schedule of Events

Registration: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm Shooting: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Silent Auction: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Awards: 4:00 pm

Shoot as a Team or Individual

Two Shooter Scramble – 75 targets, $50/team Additional rounds $35/team Individual Sporting Clays – 50 targets, $35/shooter Additional rounds $20

~ Registration includes lunch for participants ~

Two Shooter Scramble

Individual Sporting Clays

1st Place: 2nd Place: 3rd Place:

3 Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class 2 $50 Bass Pro Gift Cards & 2 cases of shells 2 $25 Bass Pro Gift Cards & 1 case of shells 2 $25 Bass Pro Gift Cards

3 Lewis Classes, 3 places for each class $50 Bass Pro Gift Card & 1 case of shells $25 Bass Pro Gift Card & ½ case of shells $25 Bass Pro Gift Card

Mail Registration to: CFM, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101 ~ or call (800) 575-2322 Name: _____________________________________________________________________ Teammate’s Name: __________________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________________ State: ___________________ Zip: ___________________ Phone: (___________) _____________________________________ Name on Station Sponsor sign: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Total Payment Enclosed: $_____________________

Executive Director

Expanding CFM Through Personal Passions

ach of you has a passion for a specific element of our natural world. There is undoubtedly more than one aspect to your outdoor acumen, but there is something, some activity, some landscape, some species, that stirs you in a way nothing else does. For Jim Washabaugh, nothing compares to trout. This CFM board member is the most knowledgeable Missouri trout fisherman I have ever met, and he gets giddy when he speaks to people about the Missouri “Trout Parks,” three of which are State Parks managed by the Department of Natural Resources. Bennett Spring, Roaring River and Montauk are State Parks. The James Foundation operates Maramec Spring. Jim is a true ambassador for all things trout in our state and he wants to share his passion. He is eager to further involve trout fishermen in CFM. When he reached out to me with a goal of growing CFM awareness among the trout community, I saw the light in his eyes and knew he was serious. “There is nothing else like the trout parks we have here in Missouri. Generations of families become attached to these parks, building lasting memories through trout fishing. If we can create an awareness of CFM in and around the these parks, then I know we can gain a significant

number of new CFM members from the trout fishing community,” he said. Not only do I agree with Jim, but also I applaud his vision and personal desire to strengthen CFM by leveraging a personal passion. Nothing could be more counterintuitive to my leadership role with this organization than failing to capitalize on a member’s excitement when backed by a solid plan. So Jim and I took off for the trout parks. We drove 670 miles in three days without ever leaving the state. We must have talked to more than 100 people about CFM, and we left literature and decals in over a dozen locations hoping to help brand CFM around the parks. The tour really opened my eyes to the amount of opportunity that exists in the trout fishing community, and further enhanced my appreciation of our State Park system. Jim is the author of “Fishing the Missouri Trout Parks,” so as we visited Bennett Spring, Roaring River, Montauk and Maramec Spring, Jim was welcomed as a celebrity. With each visit to a fly shop, hotel, bait store, park office or restaurant, Jim graciously introduced me, then allowed me to explain CFM to those who would listen, backing me up when appropriate. Jim is a shinning example of the power a motivated member can wield.

Jim Washabaugh has a personal passion for trout, and he wants to his share his passion with you.

A great takeaway from the experience Jim and I deemed our “Trout Park Ambassador Tour” was learning of the possibility of hosting an event at one of the parks. We are working on the details, but soon, I hope to announce plans for an inaugural CFM Trout Fest. Each of you has a passion; a specific niche you enjoy outdoors in Missouri. What ties us all together at CFM is a common desire to preserve and promote the natural resources of our state. Jim Washabaugh

is devoted to trout. He knows that bringing others under the wing of CFM will ensure his favorite resource has a future. What personal passion of yours could benefit by having a greater involvement with CFM, and how can you make that happen? What do you want to share with other conservation minded Missourians? Please share your thoughts. I promise to listen. Yours in conservation, Brandon Butler

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MISSOURI

Wildlife July 2014 Vol. 75, No. 4

Contents 6 Support and Visit Our Missouri National Parks 6 CFM Opposes Transfer of Ozark National Scenic Riverways 10 MidwayUSA’s Brenda Potterfield Receives Lifetime Achievement Award 11 78th Annual Meeting of the National Wildlife Federation 12 New Commissioner Credits Mentors for His Conservation Commitment 16 Life Changing Experiences Offered Here

Officers President Al Vogt 1st Vice President Ron Coleman Gary Van De Velde 2nd Vice President Secretary Nicole Wood Treasurer Randy Washburn

Staff Brandon Butler Rehan Nana Micaela Haymaker

18 The Stone House 19 47th Annual Operation Clean Stream 19 Passport to Clean Water 23 Missouri Farmers Care Supports Amendment 1 - “Right to Farm” 24 Republic High School Wins Missouri Bass Championship 26 Life After CLC - Where Are You Now?

Laurie Coleman

Joe Pendergrass

Executive Director/ Editor Deputy Director Office Manager Membership Director/ Managing Editor Creative Director

Mission Statement: Missourians for Conservation of Natural Resources and Protection of Our Outdoor Heritage.

27 The Missouri Tarantula 32 Welcome CFM New Affiliate - Missouri Delta Waterfowl 33 Passion for the Outdoors 35 Why I Became a Life Member of CFM

news, updates and columns 3 From The Stone House 5 President’s Message 8 Deputy Director Agency News – Missouri Department of Conservation 20

MDC Managed Deer Hunt Applications Open July 1

Help Protect Missouri Deer

MDC Leads Efforts to Protect Deer

Department of Natural Resources – 28

Enhancing Missouri’s Natural Resources - It’s in our Nature

Spotlight on Missouri State Parks - Mark Twain State Park and Historic Site

Member Information: 7 CFM Affiliates 15 New Members

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Missouri Wildlife is the official publication of the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. ISSN 1082-8591

728 W. Main Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 Phone • 573-634-2322 Email • lcoleman@confedmo.org Online • www.confedmo.org

MISSOURI WILDLIFE (USPS 012868) is published bi monthly in January, March, May, July, September and November for subscribers and members of the Con ser vation Federation of Missouri, 728 W. Main, Jef ferson City, MO 65101-1559. Of each member’s dues ($25 minimum) $10.00 shall be for a year’s subscription to Missouri Wildlife. Periodical postage paid at Jefferson City, MO. and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MISSOURI WILDLIFE, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 Front Cover: Tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi). Missouri’s largest spider, hairy and scary, but not aggressive toward humans. Credit: Glenn Chambers © Glenn D. Chambers 2014 www.glenndchambers.com

president’s message

here is absolutely nothing this, or any other, whitetailed deer can do to avoid being killed by the emerging pathological threat of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The disease is always fatal, undetectable in live deer and there is no known cure. The CWD disease has already spread to Missouri’s population of wild deer, likely from a captive facility. CWD spreads through an infected deer passing a deadly prion to a healthy deer. This can happen through physical contact, bodily fluids or fecal matter. The prion ultimately destroys the deer’s brain, leading to death. Deer infected with CWD survive, capable of moving throughout their range, for years after contracting CWD. They inadvertently become vectors of CWD until they die. CWD originated in Colorado, but is now found in Missouri, Wisconsin, Iowa and other states. We have no doubt that CWD has been spread by moving infected deer between captive facilities. Clearly, management techniques must be developed, employed and enforced in Missouri and other states to control the spread of CWD in deer and other cervids. The time is here-and-now for Missouri citizens who care about saving its population of white-tailed deer to take action. As President Teddy Roosevelt is so often quoted: “The wildlife and its habitat cannot speak, so we must and we will.” The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) is a citizens’ voice for white-tailed deer. A CWD action committee was formed in the summer of 2012 with activities oriented around the creation of resolutions to address CWD control. The committee participated in the “CFM Rally for Whitetails” where members met with legislators to encourage support

PLEASE HELP US

Photo credit: Noppadol Paothong, MDC

of the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) management of deer within our borders. Committee members also testified at meetings of the Conservation Commission as regulations were being developed. The CWD committee continues to focus on the potential impacts of political and biological decisions of CWD in Missouri, and will advocate actions that support CWD control and oppose those that do not. The authority for managing Missouri wildlife is constitutionally mandated to be the responsibility of the MDC. MDC is recognized broadly as the finest citizen-supported conservation agency in the nation. MDC has proposed new approaches to direct Missouri deer management for the next 10 years. New regulations are expected to minimize CWD spread in the wild deer population. Public hearings have been scheduled in Missouri at 14 locations

from June 16 - July 9, 2014. The article in the June 2014 issue of the Conservationist Magazine “Missouri Citizens are Key to Deer Management Success” includes information on deer management planning. Please read that article. CFM strongly urges that all Missouri citizens get involved in this important wildlife management challenge. Get informed. Attend MDC public hearings. Write, e-mail or call your legislators. Take every opportunity to speak for wildlife and its habitat. Encourage others to do the same. CFM has posted information on their website at www.confedmo.org to facilitate your involvement. Learn more about CWD at NoMoCWD.org. We are Conservation. Al Vogt President, CFM MIS S OURI

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Support and Visit Our Missouri National Parks Haleakala, Denali, Redwoods, Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Acadia, the Everglades, Gettysburg, The National Mall, Zion are just a few of the very special places under the management of the National Parks Service (NPS) that most of us have heard of, visited or hope to visit at some point in our life. Yellowstone, our first National Park was set aside for public enjoyment in 1872. The National Parks Service was founded almost 100 years ago in 1916 by an act of Congress and President Woodrow Wilson. Today we have over 400 national parks representing over two hundred million acres of very special land and waters. The United States National Parks System is the

most diverse parks system in the entire world. Our National Parks attract millions of visitors each day. Obviously people love our National Parks. Missouri is fortunate to have six units of our National Parks located in our state: The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial (Gateway Arch) and Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (White Haven) in St. Louis; George Washington Carver National Memorial Monument in Diamond; The Harry S. Truman National Historic Site in Independence; Wilsons Creek National Battlefield in Springfield; and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways located in South Central Missouri. We encourage you to visit

The National Mall. Photo credit: Ron Coleman.

each of these uniquely different and significant NPS locations. Ron Coleman is the 1st Vice President Of the Conservation Federation of Missouri Some of the information for this article was taken from the NPS website at www.nps.gov

CFM Opposes Transfer Of Ozark National Scenic Riverways Over the past year there have been efforts to strip Missouri of one of our largest and most naturally diverse National Parks, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR). ONSR encompasses 84,000 acres of forested parkland and 134 miles of high quality stream on the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Recently there has been legislation in both the Missouri Legislature and in the U.S. Congress to transfer our Ozark National Scenic Riverways to the State of Missouri. The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) and many of our partnering organizations are opposed to such a transfer. The ONSR was one of the first to receive Scenic Rivers designation in 1964, and it has been managed by the NPS as a national park for nearly 50 years. CFM feels strongly that it should remain under the jurisdiction 6

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of the National Parks Service. The ONSR is a park for all Americans and foreign visitors to enjoy. Historically across America, the National Parks Service has faced challenge after challenge in carrying out its mission of conservation, preservation and recreation. NPS employees are among the best and

most dedicated public servants in our nation, but they are not perfect. Our key desire to keep the ONSR in the hands of the National Parks Service is our long-term interest of the park lands and waterways, as well as the flora and fauna which thrive there. Because of its size and scope, there may sometimes be reason to question the policies and practices of the National Parks Service. However, any future differences on how the Ozark National Scenic Riverways should be managed must be accomplished through sound planning and meaningful dialogue by all parties who value the ONSR as a national treasure--not by eliminating one of Missouriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cherished National Parks. Ron Coleman

Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Photo credit: Marty Koch, Ozark Adventures.

C o n s e r v a t i o n F e d e r a t i o n o f M i s s o u r i A F F I L IATES Anglers of Missouri, Inc. Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Audubon Society of Missouri Bass-Hole Bassmasters of Missouri, Inc. Big Game Hunters, Inc. Capital City Fly Fishers Central Missouri Chapter Safari Club International Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment Deer Creek Sportsman’s Club, Inc. Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Greenway Network, Inc. Heaven’s Anglers Jefferson County Coon Hunters, Inc. Meramec Area Sportsman Association 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 Conservation Agents Association Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Consulting Foresters Association Missouri Delta Waterfowl Missouri Ducks Unlimited State Council Missouri Farmers Care Missouri Forest Products Association Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, Inc. Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation Missouri Native Seed Association Missouri Parks & Recreation Association Missouri Parks Association Missouri Prairie Foundation Missouri River Bird Observatory Missouri Smallmouth Alliance Missouri Society of American Foresters Missouri Sport Shooting Association Missouri State Campers Association Missouri State Chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association Missouri State University Bull Shoals Field Station Missouri Taxidermist Association

Missouri Trappers Association Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association Missouri Whitetails Unlimited Mule Deer Foundation North Side Division Conservation Federation Open Space Council of the Saint Louis Region Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc. Ozark Regional Land Trust 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 South Side Division Conservation Federation Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers St. Louis Audubon Society Tipton Farmers & Sportsman’s Club 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

CFM Affiliate Membership Your affiliation with CFM speaks loudly to Missouri. Affiliate name: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Affiliate address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Contact person: _______________________________________________________________ Role in group: ____________________________ Phone: (__________)_________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________________ Number of members in group: __________________________________ Date group was established: __________________________________ Purpose of group: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Payment Method:

Cash Check # __________ CC #________________________________________________________ Exp:_____________ MIS S OURI

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Deputy Director

We Have Two Options

"It is not what we have that will make us a great nation; it is the way in which we use it," President Theodore Roosevelt.

ne of the hardest days of fishing I’ve ever experienced was outside of Dutch John, Utah, on the Green River. A 25 mph up-canyon wind combined with the late autumn chill after taking an accidental dive in the river made fishing nearly impossible. As the temperature continued to drop, I broke down my rod, turned to my fishing buddy and said, “I wish I was back in Missouri on the hottest day in July, fishing the Niangua for lazily rising trout.” Ever since then, when nature conspires against me, I’ve turned to that thought. I must have thrown enough coins in enough fountains, because that wish is coming true. After working for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever in Minnesota for the past three years, I am happy to be a Missouri resident again, working as the new Deputy Director for the Conservation Federation of Missouri – a title I am truly honored to hold. A Kansas City native, I grew up hunting, fishing and enjoying Missouri’s outdoors like many of you. Recently, in my free time, I have been in the process of restoring my family’s farm in NW Missouri near Alba8

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ny for quail and pheasants, much to the enjoyment of my birddog, Anne. Spending time with my family upland hunting on our farm and catching fish out of my grandfather’s farm ponds in NW Missouri are cherished moments in my life, so when the opportunity arose to come back to Missouri and ensure the future of the state’s outdoors for which I have the utmost respect, I jumped at the chance. I believe that one has to know his past before he can know his future, though, which is why on my first week on the job, I felt humbled to spend a day with CFM’s retired executive director, Dave Murphy, and retired MDC Wildlife Research Chief, Bill Crawford. The entire history of Missouri’s professional conservation efforts is spanned by these two gentlemen’s careers. And while I am 6’1” tall, the whole day I felt as though I was walking among giants. The stories told of conservation in our state, the ups and the downs, were eye-opening. What these two taught me is that conservation has been, many times, a hard won battle in Missouri. As we progress into the 21st century, the demands 2014

for time, resources and attention will continue to rapidly increase, which is why we, as Missouri outdoorspeople, need to continue to act as a singular voice under the banner of CFM. Our state is as demographically varied as it is beautiful, and while we call different parts of the state home, a passion for the entirety of our state’s natural resources is a commonality we all share. I have had the opportunity to meet CFM volunteers from all parts of the state, and, frankly, with

each passing day, I am more impressed and excited for what is in store for CFM. The North American Model of Wildlife is one of the greatest conservation movements in history, and what makes it even more impressive are the stewards, people like CFM supporters and members, who volunteer their time and resources to maintain our wild places. Missouri has millions of residents who annually enjoy the outdoors, each with a unique voice and interest. Each voice is

important, and each voice has two options in communicating its expectations for the future of Missouri’s outdoors. The first option is to go it alone in the conservation wilderness and hope that a single voice can carry far enough to make a difference. The second is to stand together and let our collective voice roll from the Ozarks to the Iowa border and back again to the Capital, demanding that conservation be an ever-present part of our culture and landscape. It is the latter of these two that will ensure the preservation of our state’s natural resources. After all, the most permanent conservation advice can be found on our state’s great seal - “United We Stand, Divided We Fall.” There will be challenges with keeping conservation on the forefront of people’s minds, but challenges are a good thing. Challenges give us the opportunity to prove what we stand for and show that we believe in something. Challenges give us the opportunity to protect what we need to protect and to change what we need to change. And most importantly, without

challenges, there would be no victories. People protect what they love, and it is our responsibility to instill the love of the outdoors to all of Missourians, so we can protect our state’s unparalleled natural resources. I ask you to join me in doing this by telling your friends, family and Missouri’s youth the importance of the outdoors and becoming a member of CFM. As our membership, brand and organization continue to grow under the leadership of CFM’s new executive director, Brandon Butler, I know CFM and its volunteers around our state are ready to meet any challenges we may face, making me confident that CFM and Missouri conservation’s brightest days are ahead of us yet. I look forward to working with each of you to accomplish this goal, and please don’t hesitate to be in contact with me directly anytime…except for the hottest day in July, unless you want to join me on the Niangua. Rehan Nana Deputy Director, CFM

Would you like to be added to our electronic newsletter list? Please email your name and email address to lcoleman@confedmo.org or call us toll free at 800-575-2322 MIS S OURI

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MidwayUSA’s Brenda Potterfield Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

renda Potterfield, of MidwayUSA, was recently presented with the very first NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Lifetime Achievement Award at the 143rd NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits in Indianapolis, IN. “It was an honor and privilege to present the inaugural NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Lifetime Achievement Award to Brenda Potterfield, who has truly set the standard for exemplary leadership and philanthropy in support of the NRA and the Second Amendment,” said Susan LaPierre, Co-Chair of the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum. “As a business woman, hunter, wife, mother and advocate, Brenda has devoted her life’s work to sharing her love of hunting, educating young people, and providing generous financial support that has advanced programs of the NRA. Brenda is a true champion of freedom whose selfless and dedicated efforts are shaping an incredible future for the next generation.” The award, presented by Suzie Brewster and Susan LaPierre, Co-Chairs of the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum, is an American-made crystal piece from Simon Pearce, recognizing philanthropic leadership in defense of freedom through the support of vital NRA programs through the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum. “I am honored to accept this award from the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum,” said Brenda Potterfield. “The protection of the Second Amendment, through the support of the NRA, has always been very important to me and my family and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with such an influential and exceptional group of women at NRA Women’s Leadership Forum.” About the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Lifetime Achievement Award: The NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honor awarded by the NRA Office of the Executive Vice President to a member of the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum who has demonstrated a lifetime of exemplary service and philanthropy in support of the Second Amendment.

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Suzie Brewster, Co-Chair of the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum, Brenda Potterfield and Susan LaPierre, Co-Chair of the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum.

About MidwayUSA: Both country kids from Missouri, Larry and Brenda Potterfield turned their passion for shooting sports into a career by opening a small gun shop in 1977 that would eventually become MidwayUSA (www.midwayusa.com). They instilled family values like honesty, integrity and respect for others into the business, and strive to maintain this culture with each employee added to their growing team. For over 36 years, MidwayUSA has offered JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING® for Shooting, Reloading, Gunsmithing and Hunting with an unyielding focus on Customer Satisfaction. For more information on MidwayUSA, visit their website (www.midwayusa.com), find them on Facebook (www. facebook.com/OfficialMidwayUSA), or follow them on Twitter (http://twitter.com/midwayusa).

78th Annual Meeting of the National Wildlife Federation

he 78th Annual National Wildlife Federation (NWF) meeting was held in Baltimore, Maryland on May 1-3, 2014. The theme of this year’s annual event was “Water: It Connects Us All”. Representing Missouri at the meeting were Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) NWF Affiliate Representatives Don Johnson and Ron Coleman, CFM Executive Director Brandon Butler and NWF Region 5 Director Nicole Wood. Also present at the meeting was CFM Conservation Leadership Corp. President Kendall Lloyd. Since its founding in 1937 NWF delegates from across the United States have gathered to help shape the conservation policies of the organization at the Annual Meeting. CFM was proud to be represented at this year’s meeting and offer advice on a number of the fourteen conserva-

CFM Conservation Leadership Corp (CLC) President Kendall Lloyd talks with Leah Mc Sherry, Coordinator of the Wisconsin Conservation Leadership Corp. Photo credit: Ron Coleman

tion resolutions passed by NWF affiliate state organizations. Ron Coleman, CFM 1st Vice President and Alternate CFM Affiliate Representative said “I was pleased to see so many relevant resolutions addressing our state conservation con-

CFM Executive Director Brandon Butler and CFMNWF Affiliate Rep. Don Johnson visit with Collin O’Mara, the new President and CEO of NWF. Photo credit: Ron Coleman

cerns passed this year at the convention. Particularly those dealing with Chronic Wasting Disease and Opposition to the Transfer of Public Lands, both key issues today in Missouri”.

3rd Annual Magnificent Missouri Event Scheduled for Sunday, October 5th Magnificent Missouri is pleased to announce that planning is underway for the 3rd Annual Conservation Celebration. This year’s event will be held at Shaw Nature Reserve just south of St. Louis in Gray Summit, MO on Sunday, October 5. According to Dan Burkhardt, one of the event founders, this year’s event will be even better than our first two Celebrations -- with your help. The concept of Magnificent Missouri is to raise funds for conservation through an event that brings together agriculture, conservation and food in an inviting environment. Since its inception the event has raised tens of

thousands of dollars for conservation endeavors. This year, Pappy’s Barbeque will be cooking up locally-raised heritage breed pork. Gerard Craft of Niche, Kevin Nashan of Sidney Street Cafe and Josh Galliano of Libertine will be providing accompanying dishes. They are already planning our feast. Mark your calendar today and plan to join Magnificent Missouri for a beautiful fall afternoon to enjoy the menu and talk conservation. For questions about the event contact Diann Cage at dc@dianncage.com.

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New Commissioner Credits Mentors for His Conservation Commitment David W. Murphy says teachers and conservation agents saw his passion for nature and helped develop it into a life-long commitment to conservation.

avid W. Murphy, nominated to serve on the Missouri Conservation Commission, is a living example of what outdoor mentorship can accomplish. He says he wants to pay forward the gifts he has received. Gov. Jeremiah “Jay” Nixon announced the nomination June 4. If confirmed by the Missouri Senate, Murphy would serve a term ending June 30, 2019. Murphy, 59, is a Lewis County native. He owns and operates a 376-acre farm in Clark County, where his family has been farming since 1857. He grew up driving a tractor, tending hogs and cattle, and hunting and fishing with his family. Murphy earned a bachelor of science degree in forest, fisheries and wildlife and a master’s degree in wildlife management, both from the University of MissouriColumbia. After college he worked as a regional director and field supervisor for the National Wild Turkey Federation. He recently retired from a 10-year stint as executive director for the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). In 2009 Outdoor Life magazine named Murphy one of 25 Most Influential People for the Future of Hunting and Fishing. Murphy traces the roots of his conservation career to his earliest childhood memories. “My family were hunters and fishermen all the way back before the Conservation Department was formed,” he says. “My great grandfather was a market hunter, and my dad and his father always had dogs to hunt quail and raccoons. I can remember my dad carrying me in his arms on a coon hunt.” Murphy says his maternal grandfather introduced him to fishing, and he grew up being a river rat. From all the foregoing, Murphy’s career track might seem predictable. But he says there is more to his story than strong family ties to the outdoors. Three conservation agents, who were family friends, also played key roles in shaping his life goals. Conservation agent Bob King would go on to become chief of the Conservation Department’s Protection Division. Phil Rice later served as Protection Division supervisor in northwest Missouri. Then there was Conservation Agent Dean Novel. 1 2

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“Dean was a profound influence on me because of the guidance he gave me,” says Murphy. “I told him one day I wanted to be a conservation agent just like him. He told me I was doing pretty well in school, so I ought to become a biologist.” Murphy also credits his third-grade teacher, Mrs. Bowen, for encouraging his budding interest in nature. She noticed his keen interest in animals when he just a first-grader and gave his teacher, Mable Walker, a copy of The Wild Mammals of Missouri by Charles and Elizabeth Schwartz for him to use while learning to read. That book, with its wealth of lifelike illustrations and details about the lives of animals, fired his imagination.

“I don’t know where I would be today without those folks who took an interest in me when I was young,” says Murphy, “but you can bet I wouldn’t have been able to do as much as I have.” When he retired earlier this year, Murphy had business cards printed up proclaiming his new title – citizen. “I think that’s the most honored title a person can have,” he says. “It was citizens who had the love of nature, the vision and the drive to pass a constitutional amendment in 1936 removing conservation from political control. It was citizens who decided to amend the constitution again 40 years later to provide stable funding for their conservation department.” Murphy looked forward to retirement as a time when he could fully enjoy his wife, Gunilla, and their daughters and grandchildren, not to mention hunting and fishing. Instead, he finds himself jumping back into the public arena, where he spent 25 years. He says he accepted Gov. Nixon’s appointment for the same reason he took the job as CFM’s director – to help protect Missouri’s unique system of conservation governance. Murphy also notes that a huge majority of Missourians approve of the job the Conservation Department is doing. He wants to persuade the minority that conservation is a wise investment in the future. “We owe them an explanation, some understanding of why conservation has

value. We have to explain it well enough so it makes sense to people if we want it to continue. I think my background has positioned me pretty well to be that standard bearer. I feel a great obligation to ensure that this world is as good a place as I can leave it for my grandson and for other grandsons and granddaughters out there.” One area of conservation policy that has long been of special interest to Murphy is mentorship of young outdoors people. His personal involvement began many years ago when he noticed that fathers often brought their children along on fishing trips but ignored them while engaged in fishing. Murphy began bringing extra fishing gear with him when he went fishing and discovered that he got more enjoyment from helping children discover fishing than from fishing for himself. Over the years he has advocated for measures to encourage young Missourians’ involvement in traditional outdoor activities. One example is youth hunting seasons, which allow adults to give their full attention to upcoming hunters. He says he hopes to continue promoting outdoor mentorship on the Conservation Commission, maintaining Missouri’s national leadership in hunter recruitment. “We are one of the few states in the nation with a positive hunter-replacement ratio,” says Murphy. “I would like to be part of keeping it that way.”

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CALENDAR MISSOURI FESTIVALS AND AFFILIATE EVENTS

AFFILIATE EVENTS GREENWAY NETWORK JULY 7: Monthly Board Meeting, Saint Peters (7:00pm - 9:00pm) JULY 8: MR340 Missouri Race; (913) 244-4666 JULY 9: Big Muddy Paddle Series, MDC Frenchtown Boat Launch (4:30pm) JULY 9: Big Muddy Speaker Series, Big A’s Restaurant, Saint Charles (6:30pm) JULY 12-13: Kiefer Creek Hike, Castlewood State Park, Ballwin (10:00am - 12:00pm); Lorin (314) 727-0600 JULY 14: Race for the Rivers Meeting, TPI Office (7:00pm - 9:00pm) JULY 20-24: Summers at Mizzou, Meet the “Big Muddy” - Missouri River Academy; (573) 882-8320 AUG 4: Monthly Board Meeting, Saint Peters (7:00pm - 9:00pm) AUG 9: Kiefer Creek Hike, Castlewood State Park, Ballwin (10:00am - 12:00pm); Lorin (314) 727-0600 AUG 11: Race for the Rivers Meeting, TPI Office (7:00pm - 9:00pm) AUG 13: Big Muddy Paddle Series, MDC Frenchtown Boat Launch (4:30pm) AUG 13: Big Muddy Speaker Series, Big A’s Restaurant, Saint Charles (6:30pm) AUG 23-24: Operation Clean Stream (8:00am 5:00pm); (636) 451-6090 MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION JULY 28: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion AUG 25: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion MISSOURI BASS FEDERATION JULY 12: Board Meeting, Warsaw JULY 13: Summer Sizzler, Truman Lake MISSOURI BIRD CONSERVATION INITIATIVE AUG 22-23: Annual Conference, Peachtree Catering and Banquet Facility, Columbia; Michelle McGrath (573) 522-4115 ext. 3150 MISSOURI BOW HUNTERS ASSOCIATION JULY 13: State Outdoor Championship (NFAA Sanctioned), Landau Park, Blue Springs; Steve Bridger (816) 419-2310 MISSOURI CONSERVATION AGENTS ASSOCIATION AUG 9-10: Family Outdoor Skills Camp for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children, H. Roe Bartle Boy Scout Camp, Osceola; Tisha Holden (417) 532-7904 ext. 221

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MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED JULY 19: State Committee Grand Giveaway, Knights of Columbus Hall, Columbia (1:00pm 5:00pm); Todd Carlton (573) 415-6697 JULY 22: Western Missouri District Meetings (6:30pm - 9:00pm); Bill Cox (816) 524-0987 or Mark Jackson (417) 549-9875 AUG 16: Southern Boone County Gun Bash, Optimist Club Building, Ashland (5:30pm - 9:00pm); Tyler Woods (573) 230-3072 or Cindy Downing (573) 999-7829 AUG 22: O’Fallon - Saint Paul Dinner, Saint Paul Catholic Church Fellowship Hall, Saint Paul (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Brad Sullivan (314) 456-0257, Michael Schrader (636) 237-3122 or Joe Freeman (636) 373-3698 MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION FUNDRAISING BANQUETS JULY 12: David Blanton Memorial, YMCA, Mountain Grove; Darren & Lori Jones (417) 746-4854 JULY 18: Finley River Chapter, Christian County Elks Lodge, Ozark; Jared Byerly (417) 840-4973 JULY 19: Ritchie Meredith Memorial Chapter, Elm Branch Church, Aurora; Brian Fronabarger (417) 840-4797 JULY 25: Shoal Creek Chapter, Saint Mary’s Catholic Church Gymnasium, Pierce City; Bill House (417) 442-3719 AUG 2: Dry Fork Strutters, Oak Meadow Country Club, Rolla; Joe Malters (573) 364-1550 AUG 2: Locust Creek Longbeards, Community Center, Milan; Kirk Hendershott (660) 216-9991 AUG 9: Rhine Valley Chapter, Saint George Church, Hermann; Lyndon Ruediger (573) 2947189 AUG 9: Ozark Mountain Gobblers, Arcadia Valley Elks Lodge, Pilot Knob; Kenneth Sherrill (573) 546-3392 AUG 10: Race to Save the Hunt, Lucas Oil Speedway, Wheatland; Stephen Barlow (620) 228-2366 AUG 16: Turkey Creek Longbeards, Elks Lodge, Joplin AUG 16: River Bottom Gobblers, Armory, Caruthersville; Mickey Moody (573) 333-0662 AUG 22: Nolan R. Hutcheson Memorial, Intercounty Electric, Licking; Kurt Homeyer (417) 260-7997 AUG 23: Clark County Longbeards, Clark County Fairgrounds, Kahoka; Michael Paben (660) 4795567 AUG 23: Saint Louis Sponsor Event, Anheuser Busch Mansion - Grants Farm, Saint Louis; Matt

Ludwig (314) 853-4424 AUG 23: Perry County Beards & Spurs, Knights of Columbus Hall, Perryville; Dominic Blythe (573) 547-6232 WHEELIN SPORTSMEN EVENTS AUG 8: Heartland Gobblers Gun Blast, American Legion Hall, Poplar Bluff; Cordell Stewart (573) 421-1257 AUG 8: Platte Purchase Sportsman’s Night Out, Moila, Saint Joseph; Edward Heisel (816) 596-0513 MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATION JULY 26: Board of Directors Meeting, Prairie Fork Conservation Area, Williamsburg AUG 23: Annual Dinner, White Rivers Conference Center, Springfield MISSOURI STATE CHAPTER OF THE QUALITY DEER MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION AUG 23: SEMO Trail of Tears Branch 6th Annual Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Jackson (5:00pm - 7:00pm); Ted Slinkard (573) 208-2020 MISSOURI TROUT FISHERMEN’S ASSOCIATION SPRINGFIELD EVENTS JULY 3: Monthly Meeting (6:00pm - 9:00pm) AUG 7: Monthly Meeting (6:00pm - 9:00pm) AUG 15: Insect-O-Rama, Nature Center, Springfield (6:00pm - 9:30pm) AUG 21: Fly Fishing Class (6:00pm - 9:50pm) AUG 28: Fly Fishing Class (6:00pm - 9:50pm) KANSAS CITY EVENTS JULY 19: Family Fun Day (10:00am - 2:00pm) AUG 9: Fishing Derby, Bennett Springs MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITED AUG 2: Buck Fever Banquet, Community Center, Loose Creek AUG 23: Missouri River Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Washington OZARK FLY FISHERS JULY 11-12: 6th Annual Water Quality Monitoring Outing and Picnic, Montauk State Park; Scott Darrough (314) 560-1335 JULY 14: Board Meeting, Creve Coeur (7:00pm 9:00pm) JULY 24: General Membership Meeting, Greensfelder Recreation Complex, Queeny Park (7:00pm) AUG : Board Meeting, Creve Coeur (7:00-9:00 pm) AUG 23: 47th Annual Operation Clean Stream; Scott Darrough (314) 560-1335 AUG 28: General Membership Meeting, Greensfelder Recreation Complex, Queeny Park (7:00pm) OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB JULY 12: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm - 7:30pm) JULY 12: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm - 9:00pm) AUG 9: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm - 7:30pm)

AUG 9: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm - 9:00pm) POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES, INC. JULY 26: Pomme De Tour - Pomme Arm, The Harbor Marina; Earle Hammond (816) 225-3519 JULY 18-19: Lake Saint Clair Outing; Denis Ledgerwood (636) 346-4288 AUG 16: Pomme De Tour - Lindley Arm, The Harbor Marina; Earle Hammond (816) 225-3519

AUG 20-22: Gil Hamm Chapter Challenge - Lake of the Woods, Red Wing Lodge; Fred Wehrli (785) 584-6393 RIVER BLUFFS AUDUBON SOCIETY JULY 11-13: The Missouri Bluebird Conference, George Washington Carver Farm - Lincoln University, Jefferson City

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION JULY 19: Osage Buglers Big Game Banquet, Blue Springs; Faron Roschevitz (816) 331-3113 AUG 23: Lewis & Clark Trail Big Game Banquet, Jefferson City; Brad Heckman (573) 619-3416 SAINT LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETY JULY 19: Birding Field Trip (7:00am - 5:00pm) CFM EVENTS AUG 9: Sporting Clay Shoot, River Hills Sporting Clays, Boonville

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CFM would like to thank the 302 members that renewed since our last publication. MIS S OURI

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Life Changing Experiences Offered Here

hen you become a hunter you aren’t just participating in a wonderful activity that binds friends and family, provides heart smart locally grown food, gives you a greater, deeper appreciation of wild things and wild places, and often becomes the centerpiece of your life but you ARE conservation. You provide the funding for more than a third of the cost of conservation in Missouri through your license fees and excise taxes on firearms and ammunition. The state of Missouri leads the nation in hunter recruitment and retention at 1.16 hunters gained for every one lost. But we can do better. The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) in partnership with Quail Forever (QF) and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will provide mentored dove hunting opportunities for first time hunters of any age on six fields located on private land across the state. The NWTF initiated this effort as part of its’ Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. Over the next ten years, nationally, the NWTF will conserve and enhance 4 million acres, create 1.5 million new hunters, and provide access to an additional 500,000 acres. This mentored hunting program will touch all three bases and, like a lot of what conservationists do, we will rely heavily upon partnerships to achieve our goals. This opportunity will be made possible by funding from the NWTF and MDC for the seed, fertilizer, weed control, and contracting for installation of the six fields and QF helped locate four of the six fields and did the installation on those. All three partners will cooperate in getting the word out, orchestrating the orientation workshops and provide mentors for a safe, high quality hunting experience. There will be three hunts offered on each field on opening day (September 1, 2014) and then two other days that will be determined by participating landowners of the individual fields but will likely be Saturdays including September 6. Each field will be limited to 16-20 hunter/mentor pairs per hunt to maximize safety and provide a quality experience. In order to participate in a hunt you MUST first attend a hunter orientation workshop where you will learn about dove biology and management, the importance of hunters and hunting, hunter safety, and will have the opportunity to practice shooting a shotgun. If you think hunting is something that you’d like to give a try you won’t need to bring anything with you but the desire to learn something new.

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Workshops will be provided in: Meadville on August 10 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm at Fountain Grove Conservation Area Kirksville on August 17 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm at the MDC Northeast Regional Headquarters High Ridge on August 21 from 5:30pm - 9:00pm at Jay Henges Shooting Range Parkville on August 27-29 from 5:30pm - 8:30pm at the Parma Woods Range Williamsburg on August 30 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm at Prairie Fork Conservation Area Ash Grove on August 30 from 8:30am - 2:30pm at Andy Dalton Range Cape Girardeau on August 30 from 4:00pm - 8:15pm at the Apple Creek Trap and Skeet Range You can attend any workshop offered but the field you will be invited to hunt on will be determined by applications received, and the availability of spaces on each field for each hunt. If there are spaces available on any field for any of the days offered, first time hunters will have the opportunity to attend multiple hunts. For application information refer to the following links: http://www.monwtf.org http://confedmo.org/cfm2/ http://www.missouripfqf.org You can also contact John Burk at (573) 676-5994 or e-mail at jburk@ nwtf.net or Elsa Gallagher at (660) 277-3647 or e-mail at EGallagher@ pheasantsforever.org. MIS S OURI

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The Stone House By Michelle Brooks Jefferson City News Tribune

he Stone House at 728 West Main is now owned by the Conservation Federation of Missouri, but dates to the Civil War. The unique “cotton rock” limestone of Missouri was used to construct many of the earliest buildings in Jefferson City. Prussian born immigrant Bernard Eveler constructed a duplex at the corner of West Main and Clay streets entirely with this uneven medium between 1854-60. The city landmark known as The Stone House appears to have been used as the gatehouse to the Union Army’s College Hill Fort after the 1861 occupation. The Dutch Colonial home withstood the traffic of soldiers to be held by the Eveler family for more than 120 years. The Conservation Federation of Missouri purchased the building from the family estate in 1985 and continues to use it today for its offices. Today it is one of the oldest residences within the city limits. The lot was first transferred from the Missouri Seat of Permanent Government to John Chappell in 1836. Eveler bought the lot in 1854 and family records say the house was built in 1860. He built many other homes within two blocks of the area, but none remain.

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The Conservation Federation of Missouri office.

The Stone House was built with four large rooms on the main floor with oak floors, two rooms upstairs and a full-sized basement. The exterior walls are 16 inches thick and the doors and windows were made of walnut. Eveler was one of the leading founders of St. Peter Church in 1846. The previous year he married his wife, Margaret Arens. They are both buried in the St. Peter Cemetery. The Stone House may stand unassuming under the mature shade trees leading from the U.S. 50 exit to the Capitol, but underneath it and its Cliff Street neighbors, are the reminders of the Civil War days nearly 175 years ago. 2014

A block east on Main Street, the Porth House was used as an armory and tunnels are rumored to run from its basement into the fort. Catty-corner from the Porth House across the intersection of West Main and Bolivar streets, a saloon was built to serve the 3,000 encamped troops toward the end of the war. Today, Paddy Malone’s continues the trade there. But behind The Stone House, even more tunnels thought to have been dug by the Union soldiers, were cause for settling and sinking for the 20th century property owners, including a fourth city Landmark, Cliff Manor Inn. Because of its height and proximity to the river and

Capitol, this block was selected as one of the five forts in Jefferson City, according to Federal Archive maps. It also had a clear view of the Dulles House, 800 St. Mary’s Blvd, where Gen. John Fremont set up his headquarters during the occupation. The College Hill Fort was located on an index finger shaped ridge from about where the Missouri River bridges are today to the James Kirkpatrick State Information Center. The other local Union forts were constructed at Miner’s Hill, High Street, Miller’s Hill and Dunklin Hill.

47th Annual Operation Clean Stream

he Open Space Council (OSC) for the St. Louis Region is a St. Louis based nonprofit land and water conservation organization. Join OSC for the 47th Annual Operation Clean Stream to be held August 23-24, 2014. There are various sites throughout the greater St. Louis region where volunteers can get involved to help restore the Meramec River Watershed. Major sites include: Greentree Park in Kirkwood, George Winter Park in Fenton, Route 66 State Park, Meramec State Park and Arnold City Park. Volunteers are needed to help clean up the Meramec River and its tributaries to undo damage

caused throughout the year by flooding, careless littering and the unlawful dumping of trash. This is one of the largest and longest ongoing river clean-ups in America. All volunteers will be provided with gloves and trash bags, along with a free t-shirt (while supplies last). There is no cost to participate, and there is no minimum age require-

ment. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To read more or to register as a volunteer

visit www.openspacestl. org/programs/operationclean-stream or call (314) 835-9225.

Passport to Clean Water Youth ages 5-18 are invited to participate in the Passport to Clean Water program (P2CW), an educational program for youth to learn about natural resources and water quality, on August 23rd at Greentree Park in Kirkwood, Missouri. This free, family-friendly event will run from 11:00am - 1:00pm. Through the P2CW, youth can walk a greenway adjacent to the Meramec River stopping at various booths where they can interact with naturalists, biologists, storm water scientists and more. Each child will receive a passport that will be stamped after a visit to each booth and they can redeem it at the final booth for a prize.

Registration Requested: Please visit www.openspacestl.org/program/passport-to-clean-water to learn more and sign up today. MIS S OURI

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agency news - department of conservation

MDC Managed Deer Hunt Applications Open July 1

eginning July 1, deer hunters can apply online for a shot at nearly 5,700 openings for more than 100 Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) managed deer hunts taking place from mid-September through mid-January. Most hunters may apply for only one managed hunt per year. Wheelchair-confined hunters may apply for more than one managed hunt offered at select conservation areas. The online application period ends July 31. The deadline in previous years was mid-August, but has been shortened to allow hunters more time to be notified of their selections for early-season managed hunts. Managed-hunt dates, locations, and other details will be listed on the Department of Conservation website starting July 1 at mdc. mo.gov/node/11252. MDC will post drawing results at the same website address from Sept. 2 through Jan 15. Successful applicants will receive area maps and other information regarding their hunts by mail. Details about managed hunts are also available in the “2014 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklet available by July 1 at MDC offices and nature

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Photo credit: David Stonner, MDC

centers, from permit vendors around the state, and currently online at http:// mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/ files/resources/2010/03/ ftd2014.pdf. The Conservation Department holds the annual electronic drawing to determine who gets to participate in managed deer hunts at conservation areas, state parks, national wildlife refuges, urban parks, and other public areas. The hunts are open to Missouri residents 2014

and nonresidents, and help achieve MDC’s deermanagement goals for the state while also providing additional hunting opportunities. Types of hunts include archery, crossbow, muzzleloader, historic methods, and modern firearms, plus youth hunts and hunts for people with disabilities. MDC uses a weighted-preference-point system to give unsuccessful applicants an advantage in future drawings. Hunters who apply for the first time or who

were drawn for hunts the previous year are statistically less likely to be drawn than those who entered but were not drawn in previous years. Hunters may apply individually or as groups of up to six, except for youth hunts. Youths 11 years of age or older by the date of the desired hunt who are hunter-education certified may apply individually or with one other youth for youth hunts and must be accompanied on the hunt by a qualified adult mentor. All applicants will need their nine-digit Conser-

agency news - department of conservation vation ID number to complete the application process. Conservation ID numbers are listed on hunting and fishing permits, and on Missouri Conservation Heritage Cards. For more information on MDC managed deer hunts, visit http://mdc.mo.gov/node/3867. Resident or nonresident managed deer hunting permits are required to participate in managed hunts. These permits will be available to successful applicants beginning Sept. 2 from any permit vendor statewide, or online through MDC’s ePermits at http://mdc.mo.gov/node/10901. Hunters born on or after Jan. 1, 1967, and who are 16 or older, must successfully complete an approved hunter education course to qualify to buy firearms hunting permits and participate in managed hunts. Youth 11 through 15 may hunt without hunter education certification when accompanied by a qualified adult mentor during managed hunts open to all. Mentors also are required to be hunter-education certified, unless exempt by age. Hunter education classes fill up quickly as hunting seasons approach. For more information on hunter education options and classes, visit http://mdc.mo.gov/node/3095. Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC

Help Protect Missouri Deer

onservation makes Missouri a great place to hunt and watch deer. Infectious diseases such as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) threaten Missouri deer, nearly 520,000 Missouri deer hunters, thousands of landowners, more than 2 million wildlife watchers, 12,000 Missouri jobs, and Missouri businesses and communities that depend on the $1 billion in economic activity related to deer hunting and watching. The Missouri Department of Conservation is working with hunters, landowners, businesses, and partner organizations, along with captive deer breeders and big-game hunting operations, to identify and limit the spread of CWD in Missouri. As part of these efforts, MDC is proposing common-sense regulation changes for deer breeding facilities and big-game hunting preserves to help limit the spread of CWD. Changes involve more effective fencing to separate captive and freeranging deer, restricting the importation of live deer into Missouri, and mandatory disease testing. The Conservation Department encourages citizens to get involved by sharing their comments on these regulations at mdc.mo.gov/deerhealth.

MDC Leads Efforts to Protect Deer

he Missouri Conservation Commission has voted to approve proposed amendments to regulations regarding the operation of hunting preserves and wildlife breeding facilities that hold whitetailed deer, mule deer, their hybrids, and other members of the deer family, known as cervids. The changes would become part of the agency’s strategy to minimize fatal disease risks to the state’s deer herd. Actions recommended by

the Commission include: • Banning the importation of live white-tailed deer, mule deer, and their hybrids from other states. • Improving fencing requirements for captivecervid facilities. • Requiring all deer 6 months or older that die in a Conservation Department-licensed facility to be tested for CWD. • Establishing better record-keeping requirements for Conservation

Department-licensed captive-cervid operations. • Prohibiting any new captive-cervid facilities within 25 miles of where CWD has been confirmed. The proposed amendments are designed to ensure the health of Missouri’s entire deer herd, including free-ranging and captive cervids. These proposed amendments work to reduce the risk of this fatal disease (CWD) from spreading beyond the

limited area where it has been found, while minimizing the economic impact on the captive-cervid industry and the communities and businesses that benefit from deer hunting and deerrelated activities. CWD is a fatal disease that affects members of the deer family, collectively called cervids. It is different and unrelated to the recent outbreak of hemorrhagic diseases. Those diseases – blue tongue and epizootic hemorrhagic disease – are caused by viruses and

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are often not fatal. Their effects are short-term and localized. However, hemorrhagic diseases have been in Missouri for years, and white-tailed deer are adapted to cope with them. Over 500,000 citizens enjoy deer hunting, sharing their hunting heritage, and passing that heritage on to future generations. Missourians consume millions of pounds of venison and share with neighbors in need through the Share the Harvest Program. The spread of CWD could negatively impact deerdependent businesses that support more than 12,000 Missouri jobs and generate over $1 billion in economic activity annually. Proposed changes to the Wildlife Code of Missouri would give white-tailed deer an extra measure of protection against this fatal disease. The Missouri

More than 100 people attended the June meeting of Missouri Conservation Commission. Photo credit: MDC.

Department of Conservation stresses that success depends on an informed, involved public. Now that the Conservation Commission has approved proposed amendments to the regulations, they will be published in the

Missouri Register. There will be a 30-day public comment period beginning July 16, and any comments on the proposed rule changes will be forwarded to the Conservation Commission for its consideration before deciding whether the rules

will be adopted, amended, or withdrawn. To comment, go online to mdc. mo.gov/deerhealth. Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC

Now Available from CFM Missouri River Country

100 Miles of Stories And Scenery From Hermann To The Confluence The places and stories in Missouri River Country are part of the fabric and life of East-central Missouri and the St. Louis Region, a piece of its heritage and culture. It captures the essence of both the land and waters associated with one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest rivers. The route that Lewis and Clark took, and that made St. Louis the Gateway to the West, was the Missouri River. The original essays and photographs in this book follow the first 100 miles of that river west from St. Louis. We think that you will enjoy the trip. Missouri River Country is a great gift as a table top book or as an addition to your own conservation library. The book can now be ordered from the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) for $39.95 plus shipping and handling by contacting the CFM office. 2 2

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Missouri Farmers Care Supports Amendment 1 - “Right to Farm”

armers and sportsmen (and many farmers are avid sportsmen) enjoy the numerous wonders the Missouri outdoors has to offer. Whether it is casting a line into a small farm pond, tracking deer through the fall leaves, watching turkeys during a spring sunrise, or simply enjoying everything in between. For decades, Missourians have worked together to ensure that our bountiful outdoor heritage continues to thrive for future generations. But, until recent years, we have never been challenged to defend and preserve our God-given rights and freedoms. During the rapid growth of the modern animal rights movement, we have watched as the battle slowly emerged. These animal-rights radicals seek to radically alter our traditional lifestyles. Animal rights organizations, like the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), are determined to end the consumption of meat, eliminate hunting, restrict agriculture practices, outlaw rodeos, and among many other issues, promote a vegan lifestyle. The values of HSUS and other animal rights organizations do not represent those of us rooted in the “Show-Me” state, and it is our goal to ensure that their bank account is not allowed to dictate our rights and freedoms. Missouri Farmers Care is a coalition of agricultural organizations in Missouri that has been working with the Conservation Federation of Missouri to insure that HSUS and their allies do not get a footing in our state. If we wish to continue enjoying and hope to pass down the same opportunities to our next generation,

it is time that we get off the sidelines and start protecting what is most valuable to us – our freedom. On Election Day August 5th, 2014, Missourians will have the opportunity to vote for Constitutional Amendment #1 – The Missouri Farming Rights Amendment. Simply put, this proposed amendment would create a legal safeguard between Missouri food producers and future attacks from radical animal rights groups.

Just as HSUS is currently attacking hunting rights with emotionallyfueled ballot initiatives in Michigan and Maine, HSUS has attacked Missouri agriculture in the past. Missouri Farmers Care is committed to proactively defending our rights from these radical organizations and we are asking you to support Amendment #1 to help protect farmers and ranchers from the groups that attack agriculture and science-based conservation alike. A YES vote on Amendment #1 would help prevent future attempts by groups like HSUS seeking to deceptively change our Missouri way of life.

A YES vote on Amendment #1 would also help secure property rights, because Missourians know best when it comes to taking care of our land, fields, pastures, lakes, streams and ponds – not a Washington, D.C. based animal rights powerhouse. HSUS wants you to believe that every farmer, hunter, fisherman, and animal owner is inherently evil, cruel, and should not be trusted. Now is the time to make a stand for our Missouri outdoor heritage, giving protections to our food producers, and making a statement to radical animal rights groups like HSUS that their policies and agenda are not welcome here in the “ShowMe” state. We hope you will join us on Election Day by voting YES on Amendment #1 – the Missouri Farming Rights Amendment. Missouri Farmers Care is a coalition of over 40 agricultural and rural organizations in Missouri and includes members from every corner of the state, including the Missouri Conservation Federation and the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives. For more information about Missouri Farmers Care and Amendment #1, please visit www.MOFarmersCare.com and click on the ‘Farming Rights Amendment’ tab.

CFM has not taken a stance on Amendment 1. Missouri Farmers Care is an affiliate member of CFM, and we have offered them this page to explain their stance on Amendment 1. MIS S OURI

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Republic High School Wins Missouri Bass Championship

The Republic High School team won the first Bass Pro Shops Open Championship of High School Fishing on June 7-8 at Table Rock Lake.

issouri high school anglers made history by competing in the Bass Pro Shops Open Championship of High School Fishing June 7-8 at Table Rock Lake. The event was the first tournament ever held for high school teams signed up with the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) bass fishing program. The tournament drew 103 student anglers from 12 high schools that were paired up with volunteer boat captains each day. Republic won the tournament with 47 points and collected the top prize of $5,000 in scholarship money. A tiebreaker was 2 4

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used to determine second and third place since both Ozark and Branson finished with 31 points. Ozark broke the tie since one of its two-man teams had the heaviest single-day weight and claimed the secondplace prize of $3,000 in scholarship money. Branson settled for third place and won $2,000 in scholarship money. Each two-man team fished for points for their schools based on the team’s total weight each day. The top 15 finishers of the twoman teams each day were awarded points for their schools to determine the overall school champion. The tournament also awarded trophies to the top 3 finishers in the team competition. Cody Huff 2014

and Colten Levan of Ava High School earned the first-place trophy with a two-day weight of 22.54 pounds. Brandon Durr and Colton Mease of Republic took second with 22.10 and Dillon Statler and Nick Snelson of Reeds Spring High placed third with 21.59. The Big Bass plaque was presented to Ozark High’s Cameron Smith and Austin Tharp who weighed in a 5.48-pound largemouth bass. Some of the student anglers had tournament experience but this was the first time they had fished in a high school event. “It is a great program,” said Cody Huff of Ava High. “It is just a lot of fun to get everybody out and let the high school kids fish. It is

nice to be able to represent our hometown like this.” His Ava High School teammate Colten Levan also had fun fishing for his school. “I absolutely love it,” he said. Republic High anglers Brandon Durr and Hunter Gill have competed in various adult circuits and relished the chance to fish in this event. “This is a little different because everybody is our age and we are fishing as several teams for our school,” Durr said. “All in all I liked it and it was a lot of fun.” “This was really fun fishing with same-age kids and we had a lot of boats,” Gill said. “I just liked it because it was all kids my age so I could actually see where I was in tournaments

for my age group.” Adult volunteers drove the 57 boats used to take the students fishing each day. One of the boat captains, Russ McBurney, has spent the last three months taking the Hillcrest High School anglers to various lakes and teaching them how to run a trolling motor, net fish and tie knots. “We just make time to spend with the kids,” McBurney said. “They are the next generation so we’ve got to get them focused on what the future is going to be. It was just a wonderful time to be with them.” A large crowd of family and friends flocked to the weigh-in to see the students with their catches. “I think it is amazing,” Romona Scoggins said about the high school bass fishing program. “My son (Tre) has enjoyed it. In the last three months he has gone from not knowing anything about fishing to knowing quite a bit. He just got a truck and now he wants a boat. This is really an awesome thing for the young kids to get involved in a new sport.” The tournament was a proud moment for Republic High School Coach Jim Huson, who organized the event and was instrumental in starting the MSHSAA bass fishing program. “My heart swells when I see all these kids out here from these different schools,” Huson said. “This is a great start for us that we have had as a vision since 2008. Ultimately I don’t know how it could have been more successful for us

for our first year.” Central Pro-Am Association handled the tournament registration and conducted the daily takeoffs and weigh-ins. This event was also special to the tournament’s emcee, Mike Webb, Central Pro-Am president, who has been running tournaments for 20 years. “None of them are as important to my wife and me as this one just because of the kids being involved. I think this will double in size by next year. This is the future of the sport and I see these people are going to be boaters one of these days and they are going to turn around and do the same thing we are doing now to hopefully keep this ball rolling.” The Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau also sponsored the high school tournament. “We see the event as a great opportunity to support the students and the program,” said Terra Alphonso, assistant director of sports and convention sales for the chamber. “The tournament has been well organized. I am impressed with the care for the fish and the safety of the participants.” For all of the results of the high school championship, go to www.webboutdoors.com/mohigh-school-championship. John Neporadny CFM Board Member

Would you like to be added to our electronic newsletter list? Please email your name and email address to lcoleman@ confedmo.org or call us toll free at 800-575-2322 MIS S OURI

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Thank You! Business Alliance Members Our sincere thanks to all of our Business Alliance members. Your support of CFM is making a difference for Missouri outdoors! Platinum

Associated Missouri Electric Cooperatives

Bass Pro Shops

Gold

Shelter Insurance Companies

Drury Hotels

Consolidated Electric Cooperative

Platte-Clay County Electric Cooperative, Inc.

MidwayUSA

Dickerson Park Zoo

Quality Forest Management, LLC

Farm Management Service (Dan & Cheri Erdel)

REMAX Boone Realty

Silver

Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association

R. L.’s Swimming Pools, LLC

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Sapaugh Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac

Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives James T. Blair IV

Friends of Ryan McKenna Full Care Inc.

Middle River Bluffs

General Printing Service

NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.

Goodwin Brothers Construction Company

Pyramid Home Health Services

Greenbrier Wetland Services Grundy Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Basic

Hulett Heating & Air Conditioning

Second Creek Deer Blinds Shade Tree Service, Inc. Shafer, Kline & Warren, Inc. Sierra Bullets, LLC Socket Internet Service, LLC Sport & Spine Rehabilitation Tabor Plastics Company

Bee Rock Outdoor Adventures, LLC

Hunting Works for Missouri

Black Widow Custom Bows, Inc.

Joe Machens Dealerships

Bob McCosh Chevrolet Buick GMC

Land & Water Partners, Inc.

Thirty 3 Bar & Grill

Brown Printing

Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative

Thomas Industrial Coatings, Inc.

Cap America

McRoberts Farm, Inc.

Trumans Bar & Grill, Inc.

Citizens Telephone Company

Meramec Bison Farm, LLC

United Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Columbia Daily Tribune

Midwest Mailing Services

White River Valley Electric Cooperative, Inc.

The Bank of Missouri

Life After CLC - Where Are You Now? Bennett Grooms I was involved with Conservation Leadership Corp (CLC) since my sophomore year in college and I have to admit that it has definitely shaped the way I look at policy and wildlife management in my career with wildlife. Currently, I am preparing to graduate from the University of Missouri with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, with which I plan on going to graduate school to focus on carnivore behavior and ecology. Although there might not be any lions or cheetahs to study in Missouri (at least from what I have seen) my work directly deals with working in the outdoors and understanding how people interact and use the environment. CLC was a wonderful opportunity that allowed me to better understand these interactions and how policy directly affects how citizens interact with their environment. I look forward to seeing where the knowledge I gained from CLC takes me next! 2 6

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The Missouri Tarantula Family: Theraphosidae (tarantulas) in the order Araneae (spiders) Description: This hairy species is Missouri’s largest spider. The body and legs are uniformly dark chocolate-brown, with reddish hairs on the carapace. The tarantula’s large size and shaggy appearance is frightening to many people, leading them to believe it has a ferocious nature. It actually is a shy creature, quick to evade humans. Tarantulas are typically at home in areas seldom frequented by people. In late summer and fall, south Missourians often see these large arachnids crossing roads. This wandering phenomenon has been documented in male tarantulas in Southern California, but it has not been studied in Missouri. Size: Length (not including legs): Females average 2 inches; males about 1 1/2 inches. Habitat and conservation: They appear to prefer dry rocky glades, where they spend their days in silklined burrows in abandoned rodent or reptile tunnels or in other natural cavities. Like many hunting spiders, tarantulas are active at

night, when they pursue insects such as crickets. Foods: Despite what you might see in horror movies, tarantulas don’t spin webs to catch their prey. They walk on the ground and grab insects that they encounter, or that amble past them. Like other spiders, they have fangs that deliver a venom that both subdues their prey and helps digest it. Tarantulas are not aggressive to humans.

silken webbing attached to the inner walls of their burrows, and guard their eggs until they hatch. Often, the young stay with the mother for about a week before dispersing. Most of our spiders live for only a single season, but tarantulas can potentially live for years. Females can live for up to three decades, though males rarely live more than a year. Human connections: Many people keep tarantulas as pets and feed them

crickets, cockroaches, beetles and the like. They are docile and interesting to handle and watch. Ecosystem connections: Spiders are predators that help control the populations of the species they consume. In turn, they feed other predators. Thus the burrows tarantulas inhabit function not only as places to lie-in-wait for potential meals, but also as refuges from lizards, birds, skunks and other enemies.

Distribution in Missouri: Occurs mainly in south and central Missouri, in appropriate habitats. The Missouri River apparently acts as a barrier to the spider’s movement into northern Missouri. Status: This species is sometimes called the Texas brown tarantula or the Oklahoma brown tarantula. Its range extends from Kansas and Missouri south to Louisiana, Texas and Arizona, so this spider might as well be named after any of the states it lives in! This is one reason why scientists prefer precise Latin names, which don’t vary with local usage.

Photo credit: MDC Information provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation. http://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/missouri-tarantula

Life cycle: Females secure their egg cases in

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agency news - department of natural resources

Enhancing Missouri’s Natural Resources – It’s in our Nature

arlier in the year, my Missouri Wildlife column announced the department is celebrating its 40th anniversary and I provided a brief overview of our accomplishments. We continued the discussion in the last issue when I focused on the people who dedicate their time and attention toward protecting our resources. Because our natural resources are so complex and diverse, I thought this issue would be a good opportunity to expand further on the many resources our agency serves to enhance – our air, geologic, land, soil and water resources as well as our special places.

Our Air Resources Clean air is essential to our health and very existence whether we are working in the yard, floating down an Ozark stream or cycling through a Missouri State Park. Protecting and enhancing air quality is a challenging responsibility that requires participation from state and local governments, regulated entities and the general public. Missouri’s air quality has steadily improved during the last 40 years; however, tightening air quality standards are requiring additional controls aimed at improving our air resources even further.

Our Geologic Resources Since 1853, the department’s Missouri Geological Survey has provided reliable scientific information to describe and understand Missouri’s wealth of natural resources. The division provides information about the characteristics of the state’s geology that is essential for informed decision making, environmental protection and economic development that enhance and protect our quality of life.

Our Land and Soil Resources Our land sustains us by producing the fruits, vegetables and grains necessary to nourish our bodies and the timber that provides us shelter. Minerals and rocks contribute to the economy of the state in a variety of ways. In fact, mining is one of the largest economic incomes for the state. Damaging our land by soil loss, or pollution can have far-reaching consequences. From the forested Ozarks to the plains and prairies full of life, our land is an asset the department is committed to protecting and enhancing. 2 8

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agency news - department of natural resources

Our Special Places The Missouri state park system has a proud tradition of preserving and interpreting the state’s most outstanding natural landscapes and cultural landmarks while providing a variety of recreational opportunities and continues to be recognized as one of the top four state parks systems in the country. Today, Missouri State Parks includes 87 outstanding state parks and historic sites that provide the public more than 200,000 acres to discover, explore, learn and enjoy. The possibilities are boundless, so get outdoors and visit one today.

State Historic Preservation Our state has a rich cultural as well as natural heritage. Historic preservation is crucial to ensure that examples of our past are available for generations to come. The department helps identify, evaluate and protect Missouri’s cultural resources. Missouri has more than 2,000 listings in the National Register of Historic Places with more than 35,000 individual resources. Appreciation of the value of historic resources is one way of fostering their preservation. The department’s efforts help enhance Missouri’s significant cultural landmarks for all to appreciate. Our Water Resources Our Missouri waters are as diverse as the varied landscapes they flow through. Our lakes, rivers and streams provide us with quality drinking water, abundant fish stocks, irrigation, recreation and other vital services. We have made significant improvements to our state’s water quality. We protect Missouri’s water resources by permitting and inspecting potential sources of pollution, at facilities throughout the state. Groundwater levels are monitored and well installers are regulated to assure abundant, high-quality groundwater for Missouri. Dams are inspected to ensure they are constructed properly and that people and property are protected. In addition to flood protection, the department helps Missourians plan for and respond to droughts and protect and restore wetlands. Maintaining a clean supply of drinking water also is critical for Missouri’s health and its future. Future improvements will require a new approach – one that looks at the whole watershed and all the potential sources of water pollution. The department remains committed to monitoring, protecting and improving Missouri’s most precious resources – our water quantity, drinking water and water quality. If you would like to learn more

about our natural resources and the Department of Natural Resources, visit the department’s website at dnr.mo.gov/40. We know Missourians value our natural resources and the quality of life they provide. With your help, the Department of Natural Resources ensures a healthy environment in which to live, work and enjoy the

great outdoors. The department has dedicated its mission and the past 40 years toward enhancing Missouri’s natural resources – it’s in our nature. Sara Parker Pauley Director, DNR

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agency news - department of natural resources

Spotlight on Missouri State Parks – Mark Twain State Park and Historic Site

estled in north-central Missouri, the park and site gives visitors access to sprawling Mark Twain Lake, unparalleled indoor and outdoor activities, as well as museum exhibits about Samuel Clemens’ remarkable life. Mark Twain State Park was established in the 1920s through the efforts of the Mark Twain Memorial Park Association. It was created in honor of the famous Missouri author and humorist Samuel L. Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, who was born in the nearby village of Florida, Mo. The association raised more than $10,000 to purchase 100 acres of land overlooking the Salt River. Twain’s sole surviving daughter, Mrs. Clara Clemens Gabrilowitsch, gave singing concerts to benefit the memorial effort. With additional land purchased by the state, Mark Twain State Park and State Historic Site were established in 1924. The park and site are celebrating their 90th anniversary during 2014 – making the state park the third oldest in Missouri and the first established north of the Missouri River and the second oldest state historic site. The park is located in the Salt River Hills, receiving its name from the numerous salt springs or licks in the area, the Salt River carved its way into the land, exposing towering limestone bluffs. The river and its tributaries created a landscape that is more hilly and rugged than the surrounding level terrain. The topography of the area and some of its flora are similar to the Ozark region found much further south. A diverse set of plant species in the park range from prairie types, such as orange puccoon, lead plant and purple prairie clover, to upland forest species, including black oak, blackjack oak and blue 3 0

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Amid the vast array of recreational options, Mark Twain State Park has maintained a peaceful, serene setting. Photo: DNR.

ash. Mark Twain State Park serves as a refuge for white-tailed deer, turkey, raccoons, squirrels, osprey, northern harriers and numerous waterfowl. Bald eagles often spend the winter here, and have even nested near the park in recent years. The character and role of the park changed dramatically when Clarence Cannon Dam was built across the Salt River, creating Mark Twain Lake. Construction of the dam began in 1966 and was completed in 1983. In addition to the power generation, the 18,000acre lake provides flood control for the Salt River valley as well as recreational opportunities. For visitors wishing to spend a night or more in the park, the campground includes basic and electrics sites, modern showers, laundry facilities and camper cabins featuring heat, air conditioning and sleeping space for four adults and two children. Also located in the park is Camp Colborn, a group camp that features a dining lodge, kitchen, sleeping cabins and outdoor

play court. Spending a relaxing night under the stars is the perfect way to cap off a day of fishing, boating, swimming at the public beach, picnicking and hiking. Two four-lane public boat ramps are located in the park. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in Mark Twain Lake, searching for blue gill, crappie, catfish, largemouth bass, carp, walleye and perch. The lake has many quiet coves where anglers can spend peaceful days fishing. Be sure to stop and see the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site located adjacent to the park. The historic site has the two-room rented cabin Samuel Clemens – Twain’s real name – was born in, first editions of many of the author’s works, a handwritten manuscript of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and many of the furnishings from Twain’s Connecticut home. The site also has a public reading room for personal study and research. Help celebrate the park and sites 90th anniversary by attending the Mark

Nothing says “Missouri literature” like Mark Twain. And nothing says “Mark Twain was here” like the state historic site that bears his name. Photo: DNR

Twain returns to Florida, Mo event on July 11 and July 12. See Warren Brown perform as Mark Twain. Enjoy his stories, quotes about life and even jokes about his lecture tours. These events are free and opened to the public. Visit mostateparks.com to learn more about the park, site and this event. Sara Parker Pauley Director, DNR

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Welcome CFM New Affiliate - Missouri Delta Waterfowl

elta Waterfowl traces its roots to 1911. Under the leadership of James Ford Bell the founder of General Mills, began a journey of conservation which led to the modern Delta Waterfowl of today. Originally inspired to put 3 ducks back for each one shot by he and his colleagues on his property on the famed Delta Marsh, quickly learned stocking wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to sustain wild duck populations. Bell sought out conservation leaders as to how he could make a difference. Bell brought Aldo Leopold, the father of modern game management, to Delta and there was born the idea of waterfowl research facility. In 1938, Hans Albert (Al) Hochbaum arrived at Delta and became the organizations first scientific director. Hochbaum and his early Delta colleagues pioneered the study of breeding duck ecology, made seminal discoveries on habitat use and behavior. In the years since those early Delta pioneers, legions of graduate students laid the foundation of our understanding of waterfowl and their habitat. And those same researchers who

pursued their Masters and Doctoral degrees in the wetlands of North America have gone on to impact waterfowl conservation in their professional lives serving in leadership positions in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Canadian Wildlife Service, non governmental organizations like Ducks Unlimited and state and provincial agencies working for our waterfowl resource. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Delta embraces new approaches to habitat conservation and a focus on duck production. Delta has proclaimed a declarative position asserting our commitment to stand up for and by waterfowlers everywhere. This is a new

Delta, an evolving Delta, that recognizes the world we live in is different than it was a mere decade ago. A world with new challenges and new opportunities. As waterfowlers continue to decline, the habitat base on the breeding grounds shrinks, and other challenges emerge, the world needs a new Delta, steeped in history, rooted in its historical values, to adapt. A Delta that can be the voice for duck hunters, an advocate for the duck, a guardian of habitat. A Delta with the accumulated wisdom and learning of a century of experience but with a contemporary view on

how to accomplish what is needed for ducks and duck hunters. Delta is an organization poised to grow to meet this challenge. An organization with legions of waterfowl hunters at the ready to secure the future of ducks and duck hunting.

Jeremy Stephens will serve on the CFM Board as the Missouri Delta Waterfowl Affiliate Director. 3 2

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Passion for the Outdoors

unting is not for the thrill of the kill most people think of it as. It is a way of conservation and control. I hunt simply because I love it and because it was how I was raised. I was taught to only harvest the mature animals and to let the immature ones pass by, so in a couple years, they will be the next ones which will be harvested. Along with that, I was also taught to only make ethical and smart decisions while in the field, based on my safety and ethics for the animal itself. Starting at a young age, I began practicing conservation even when I didn’t realize what conservation was.

Once that dream of becoming a Pro was impossible for me personally to achieve, I settled for just becoming an avid outdoorsman and enthusiast. Over the past few years, the pressure has really come down upon me because I have to go to college to be something and be someone. So I figured, why would I not be able to do what I love for a living? Conservation. It took me a few years to realize but since I cannot be that Professional Hunter I wished to be at a young age, I realized that I can be the next best thing, a Professional Conservationist.

One of the many spring gobblers in Josh’s future.

Josh’s first buck.

My dream as a child was to become a Professional Outdoorsman/ Hunter. I have grown up taking part in basically every season that Missouri has to offer. I was preparing for my future career of fame being sponsored by Bass Pro Shops and many other outdoor companies. The fire that I once had to become a Professional Outdoorsman/Hunter was abruptly knocked from my career options when it came to me that I would have to be in front of cameras and would have to speak to huge crowds at conventions and such. To keep this short and sweet, I cannot speak in front of crowds and also get nervous very easily because of some disease doctors called “stage fright.”

Josh is at home in the field and in the stream.

I am very passionate about the outdoors because that is how I was raised and that spark has turned into an intense flame, and I hope to keep fueling that flame and increasing my passion for the outdoors with my future career. I have not decided on ex-

actly which title I would like to have but I have recently chosen to pursue a Bachelors of Fisheries and Wildlife at the University of MissouriColumbia. I attended Conservation Careers Academy (Honors Academy) over the summer of 2013 and this past spring I attended my first ever Conservation Federation Convention (CFM) as a Conservation Leadership Corp (CLC) student. I am currently working in the office of the CFM as the summer intern for 2014. As the CFM motto is “The Voice For Missouri Outdoors,” I hope to also become that voice, and take part in caring for and protecting what we all love. Joshua Groves CFM Summer Intern CLC Student MIS S OURI

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Why I Became a Life Member of CFM I have lived in Missouri all my life and spent a great deal of time outside enjoying nature in many different ways. I enjoy the complete package of what Missouri has to offer, the entire outdoor experience. When looking into making a difference in keeping our great state, with all of its varied outdoor opportunities alive and well, the best pick was the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). The CFM does an amazing job of helping all aspects of our outdoor heritage stay healthy. They work hard to pull all of the varied groups together, working as a unit to represent all of Missouri outdoors. The CFM is our voice, the Missouri outdoor enthusiast, whether young or old, a hardcore or casual participant, the group works for all of us. I could not think of a better organization than CFM to become a lifetime member of, to help continue making Missouri the best state for conservation. Kim Blystone CFM, Life Member

New Lifetime Members since the last issue. Brandon Butler, Fayette

Rehan Nana, Jefferson City

Debra Lee, Jefferson City

Carey Riley, Jefferson City

CFM Conservationists For Life ($1,000 Contribution)

CFM Life Membership Application Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: (_______)_________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________________ Payment Method:

Cash Check # __________ CC #_________________________________________________ Exp:____________ MIS S OURI

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If there are any errors in your name and address, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve moved from this address, or if you plan to move, please notify us at Missouri Wildlife, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101 or call (800) 575-2322.

Visit our website: www.confedmo.org