Wednesday, April 30, 2008

I have not head the whole story on this and I have not confirmed any of it but thought I should pass it on anyways.  I like great hunting stories regardless of whether they have been stretched from the truth or not.

STORY:

You will not believe the story on this one, I didn't either until I saw the pics. This kid was coming from the woods after hunting the morningon his Grandpas farm. I believe Jennings Co. Indiana. As he was walkingback to the house he sees this Monster buck fighting with a concrete statue.

He walks up to it and shoots but hits it in the leg, the deer runs about 50 yds away and stops. I guess he decided that he was going to go backand whip this concrete deers butt. He turns around and takes a dead runat the statue crashing in to it, the deer knocks himself out and thestatue falls on his head pinning him down. The kid knocks another arrowand shoots the deer, in the picture it looks like twice.

Anyway as you can see by the pics he killed the deer and supposedly this deer green scored around 230". If that is correct and they allow it as abow kill this will be the new state record for archery. The currentrecord in P & Y is 221”.

Check out the rest of the pictures! 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:29 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

The Ruffed Grouse Society has scheduled its New England Sporting Clays Championship for Sunday, June 1, 2008 at Addieville East Farm, 200 Pheasant Drive, Mapleville, Rhode Island, beginning with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. (Five stand warm-ups from 8-10 a.m.).

According to RGS New England Regional Director Boyd Cooke, registration for this 100 target, 15 station shoot is $150 per shooter prior to May 26 ($175 after) or $600 per four-man squad. Along with the targets, each entry fee includes a Continental breakfast, traditional New England style lobster dinner, 1-hour open bar after the shoot, one-year RGS membership and RGS favor.

A Gold Cup sponsorship package that includes station recognition, one shooter entry package, Boyt Signature shotgun case and sporting clays bag and a complimentary ticket on a fine grouse gun is available for $1,000.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:44 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Looking for a fun activity that works both your mind and body? BOW, California is offering a geocaching (“jee-oh-cash-ing”) workshop at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort in Sanger , California . Geocaching has been called the modern-day treasure hunt. Instead of a map marked with an “X”, you use a GPS receiver, a set of coordinates and clues. Your treasure is a hidden container filled with just about anything (eco-friendly) and is enjoyed by all ages around the world.

Instructor David Johnson will guide you through all of the steps in the GPS unit and instruct you in how to find the “treasure”. You will receive your very own BOW geocoin to start your adventure. Indoor class time will be limited and emphasis will be on hands-on outdoor experience. No prior knowledge needed and GPS units will be provided.

And as an added bonus, we will be demonstrating Dutch oven cooking and actually preparing the Saturday night meal…all in Dutch ovens.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:39 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Congratulations to Bill MacFarland on this Fantastic Bird.

About 19 LBS and a 11 inch Beard 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:30 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Since bears are found throughout a large part of the state, Mark Ternent, Pennsylvania Game Commission black bear biologist, said that bear sightings are common during this time of year. Food for bears is typically scarce in the spring until vegetation begins to green-up, but bears emerging from dens need to find food after fasting for several months. Thus, sightings and, in some cases, conflicts increase as bears look for food, including in backyards.

"Now is the time to keep bears from becoming a nuisance later in the summer," Ternent said. "Bears that wander near residential areas in search of food are less likely to stay or return if they do not find anything rewarding. Conversely, if bears find food in your backyard they quickly learn to associate residential areas with food and begin to spend more time in those areas. Encounters between humans and bears increase, as does property damage, the risk of human injury and vehicle accidents involving bears."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:35 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

HOLDREGE, NEBRASKA – More than 2,600 acres of waterfowl habitat in the Rainwater Basin of Nebraska will be conserved thanks to a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant. Ducks Unlimited and its partners received the grant totaling more than $736,000. Project partners provided an additional $736,000 in matching funds.

“Millions of waterfowl and other birds use the Rainwater Basin during migration,” said Steve Donovan, DU manager of conservation programs in Nebraska. “TheRainwater Basin is especially important for ducks in the spring as they rest and refuel before traveling to the breeding grounds in the Dakotas, Montana and Canada.”

Biologists estimate that 90 percent of the original 4,000 Rainwater Basin wetlands have been lost. Additionally, many of the remaining wetlands are in poor condition. This NAWCA grant is the forth phase of an ongoing effort in the Rainwater Basin to combat the overwhelming wetland loss and degradation. The partners on this project are committed to bringing back the rich wetlands and plant communities that provide the foods needed by migratory birds.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:14 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

In January of 2006 at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Elk Camp I had the pleasure of meeting Jonathon Hart and Jason Hairston from Sitka Gear.  Seeing their gear was heaven sent because the year before I had spent the fall guiding and hunting in some of the poorest quality gear I have ever had the displeasure of hunting with.

In the fall of 2006, I purchased a full set of their gear and spent the fall on the mountain in actual comfort.  I posted a full review here on the site and I fully endorse this gear.

This year at RMEF Elk Camp I stopped by the Sitka Gear booth and they told me that a major announcement and new gear was coming.  I asked what and when and the guys told me I would just have to wait like everyone else.

Finally the wait is over and we get to see some of the newest gear to come out of the team at Sitka.  These boys know hunting and they know gear and they know how to produce gear for people who are going to hunt really hard.  It is gear for people who want the very best in gear systems and in clothing technology.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:54 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Each year, conservation-minded Americans celebrate National Arbor Day by joining forces on the last Friday in April to plant an estimated 18 million tree seedlings.

However, to improve wildlife habitat and the environment, tree-planting efforts must span much further than Arbor Day celebrations. Through the National Wild Turkey Federation's initiatives, private landowners and volunteers work year-round to rejuvenate forests by managing habitat and planting trees.

"The NWTF recognized the need for regional programs that would plant food-bearing shrubs and trees for wildlife, and decided to take action, " said Dr. James Earl Kennamer, the NWTF's senior vice president for conservation programs. "Through Operation Appleseed in the Northeast, Operation SOS (Set Out Seedlings) in Midwestern states and Ontario, Operation Big Sky in the northern Great Plains and Operation Heartland in the Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio River valleys, plus initiatives to plant longleaf pines, American chestnuts and oak, the NWTF is meeting the need in big ways."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:43 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Greetings,

The expanded version of the Sportsman’s Alliance for Alaska (SAA) newsletter is available at the SAA Web site . The online newsletter includes updates on the Bristol Bay, Tongass National Forest, and Teshekpuk Lake campaigns, as well as action items and a schedule of upcoming SAA appearances. I encourage you to click the link above and read all the news.

This e-mail will focus on some exciting news which will benefit the fight to protect Bristol Bay.

Abel reels has stepped up its support for the SAA and the Bristol Bay campaign. Visit the Abel Web site to learn about the new limited edition "No Pebble Mine" Super 5N trout reel. Only 100 of this beautiful reel will be made, with 99 reels being sold directly by Abel or though Abel dealers. From each of the 99 reels sold by Abel or its dealers, $200 will be donated to the SAA. On top of that very generous support, Abel has donated Reel #1 of 100 to the SAA. That reel will be made available later in the year either by auction or limited-entry raffle. Stay tuned for further news. For now, rush to the Abel Web site and get your hands on one of these special reels before they’re gone.

The SAA is launching a huge online fundraising auction to benefit the Bristol Bay campaign. The auction will last for at least a few months with new items being placed up for bid every few days. Each item will be open for bid for 10 days. The auction is being hosted by eBay, so the format should be familiar to a lot of people. The process to bid and buy is easy, so get ready to raise some money to help protect Bristol Bay!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:34 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

On April 22, 2008, the National Park Service held the Dyke Marsh Restoration scoping meeting at the Belle View Elementary School in Alexandria,VA. One hundred and four people signed the register. Members and representatives from water fowling conservation organizations were present. Members of VAWFA, DU, Delta Waterfowl and Waterfowl USA stood in unity to support waterfowling opportunities, wildlife and the restoration of the Dyke Marsh. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) is not the primary partner in the Dyke Marsh restoration. The DGIF representatives present, stated that the agency supports  waterfowling opportunities in the Dyke Marsh area. As for now, the hunting will remain in the area. People who opposed waterfowlng opportunities remained low key. No one publicly spoke out in opposition of hunting. The waterfowlers presence made a positive presentation of today's modern waterfowlers.
 
The formal presentation of the meeting was conducted by John G. James, Deputy Superintendent of the GW Parkway, Brent Sturley, National Resource Manager for GW Parkway and Melissa Barant of the National Park Service (NPS). The NPS is looking for options to fulfill their legislative mandate for wetland restoration in Dyke Marsh. The NPS does not have any options in place, the scoping meeting was for public input on matters that may affect those options.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:20 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Madison, Wis. – April 24, 2008 – Pheasants Forever (PF) and The Big Wild, America's Premier Outdoor Radio Show, announce a seven-minute segmenten titled "In the Wild with Pheasants Forever" as a new feature on The Big Wild outdoor radio program. The segment, which will feature hunting tips, seasonal activities and conservation issues, is the official outdoor radio production of Pheasants Forever. "In the Wild with Pheasants Forever" will begin airing on Saturday, May 3rd.

The Big Wild is just that, Big and Wild – a show where you can get your weekly outdoor "fix" with timely information, recipes and rustic entertainment. The Big Wild can be heard on 18 stations weekly in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nebraska, Michigan and Illinois. Pheasants Forever's Anthony Hauck will join The Big Wild hosts "Big Red" and "Gundy" as the co-host for "In the Wild with Pheasants Forever."

"Pheasants Forever brings an expertise and understanding of conservation issues that will push The Big Wild to new heights." said Dan Gunderson, The Big Wild co-host and Executive Producer better known as "Gundy." "The credibility of Pheasants Forever is unmatched and we're just plain excited to have them as our partner."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:50 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

MISSOULA, Mont.—A new television show, Elk Chronicles, from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is set to premiere July 3 at 8:30 p.m. Eastern on Outdoor Channel. Elk Chronicles will feature outdoor adventures including hunting, recreation, wildlife and conservation in North America.

The show will carry the Elk Foundation brand and message into 31 million homes three times a week: Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. and Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m. Eastern.
 
“Bugling bulls, spectacular landscapes, packhorses and wall tents. It’s the stuff that every hunter dreams about and we’re pleased to bring it to Outdoor Channel viewers,” said David Allen, president and CEO of the Elk Foundation. “We hope Elk Chronicles conveys both the excitement of the hunt as well as the urgent need to conserve elk habitat.”
 
Founded in 1984, the nonprofit Elk Foundation has led a massive conservation movement that has helped conserve or enhance over 5.2 million acres, a land area larger than Connecticut, Delaware and District of Columbia combined. More than 500,000 acres previously closed to public access are now open for hunting, fishing and other recreation.  
 
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation,” said Tom Hornish, chief operating officer for Outdoor Channel, America’s Leader in Outdoor TV. “Elk Chronicles is a special show, capturing the excitement of hunting and showcasing best practices in conservation. Adding Elk Chronicles to our programming lineup is just another part of Outdoor Channel’s commitment to conservation, our outdoor heritage and the highest caliber programming in the outdoor genre.”
 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:35 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

SCI "In the Crosshairs" e-Newsletter 4-24-08

California Approves Non-lead Ammunition Certification Regulations

The California Fish and Game Commission recently approved regulations for certifying ammunition as “non-lead” for use in hunting big game and non-game in the area designated as  “condor range.”  A map of condor range is on page 5 of the document found at:  http://www.dfg.ca.gov.  Although SCI opposed the adoption of statutory and regulatory bans on lead ammunition in condor range, it supported the adoption of these implementing regulations.  Now that the bans are in place, hunters hunting in the defined condor range can only use ammunition certified as “non-lead” by the California Department of Fish and Game.  Without certification of the ammunition, no hunting could occur in condor range.  Four ammunition manufacturers have submitted applications for certification and the hope is that many more will do the same.  The bans go into effect on July 1, 2008.  SCI will keep you posted. 

SCI Helps Stop Anti-Hunting Legislation

SCI, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation and the NRA successfully banded together this week to oppose H.R. 5534, the so called “Bear Protection Act.” SCI and other sportsmen’s groups have worked hard to educate Congressmen and staffers about the realities of this “Bear Protection Act.”  Though H.R. 5534 sounds noble in purpose, it contained broad language that plays right into the hand of anti-hunting groups.

The truth is that H.R. 5534 will do nothing to increase conservation efforts for the North American bear, which have healthy and robust populations throughout their ranges as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service stated in its congressional testimony on this bill. The North American bear is already protected from poaching for its viscera (internal body parts) by state wildlife agency regulations, and protected from illegal interstate commerce by the Federal Lacey Act.  Furthermore, the bill would set the precedent of federal interference in successful state-based wildlife management and conservation.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:15 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

For many years, some hunters have wrongfully blamed wild turkeys for devastating quail populations by eating quail eggs and chicks. This idea may sound ridiculous, but, once again, the accusations against turkeys are flying.

Quail populations in some regions have declined over the last two decades while wild turkey populations have dramatically increased at the same time, but there is no scientific data that points to turkeys as the culprits.

According to Jim Dietsch, president of Quail Forever's Central Oklahoma 89er Chapter, a lack of quality quail habitat - not turkey predation - is to blame.

"Habitat is one link between the rise of turkey populations and the fall of quail populations in Oklahoma and across the nation," Dietsch said. "Predation will always occur in nature, but we can help quail by improving their habitat. Quality quail habitat and proper nesting cover allows for more successful nesting with less interference from predators and bad weather."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:53 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 27, 2008

MISSOULA, Mont.—Elk hunting in America is big business. The average elk hunter spends $1,201 a year pursuing the species—the second-highest amount of any game animal—and contributes to an economic engine worth nearly $1 billion annually.
 
Elk hunters outspend all others on guides, food, lodging, private transportation, licenses and tags, but trail deer hunters in overall per capita spending by $37. Duck hunters are third at $1,182 a year.
 
Within the data, one spending category is for dues, such as membership dues to conservation organizations. In this category, elk hunters fall behind several other groups.
 
David Allen, president and CEO of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, said, “In reviewing the data, we were struck by the fact that for $35—less than 3 percent of the average outlay for elk hunting—you can join the Elk Foundation and invest in conserving and enhancing the habitat that makes good hunting possible.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:51 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 24, 2008

TEXAS - The National Wild Turkey Federation and its project partners have united to complete projects that will potentially improve more than 550,000 acres of Texas National Forests and Grasslands and Wildlife Management Areas through the Master Challenge Cost Share Agreement.

Together with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and the U.S. Forest Service, the NWTF's Texas State Chapter and national headquarters signed the Master Challenge Cost Share Agreement. Throughout the five-year agreement, each partner committed $125,000 to create a shared biologist position and oversee the completion of projects that will improve habitat for wild turkeys and other wildlife.

Made possible by the recent agreement, a project on the Pat Mayse Wildlife Management Area in Paris, Texas, will improve more than 1,000 acres of prairie lands, home to native warm season grasses that provide much-needed nesting and brood-rearing habitat for wild turkeys and other ground-nesting birds.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 07:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

MISSISSIPPI — Ask any wildlife biologist what it takes to keep wildlife healthy, happy and close to home, and they'll tell you it's all about having good habitat.

Learn how to improve wildlife habitat on your property by attending the National Wild Turkey Federation's Wildlife Habitat Management Workshop Tuesday, May 27, 2008, at the Fluker Property in Winona, Miss.

During the workshop, participants will learn about the benefits of prescribed fire for wildlife and timber management. Landowners and managers also will spend time with experts learning how to thin pine plantations to improve wildlife habitat, manage hardwood stands for wildlife and timber, manage food plots to attract wildlife, maintain road systems, take advantage of cost-share programs available to private landowners and more.

The cost of the workshop is $10, and the program runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participation is limited to the first 50 people registered. The registration deadline is May 20. Registration forms should be mailed to the NWTF, Attn. Sally Faust, P.O. Box 530, Edgefield, SC, 29824.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:09 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Did you know that the NWTF started in Fredericksburg, Virginia? Close to 35 years ago the NWTF was started by a small group of men concerned about the plight of the wild turkey.  This last Saturday Fredericksburg hosted their annual banquet to raise funds for the National Wild Turkey Foundation.  The event was quite a success and the committee did a wonderful job.

I am on this committee and I am proud to be a part of this team. We raised thousands of dollars which will be used both locally and nationally to protect the wild turkey, educate youth and improve habitat for all species.  Bill Newman the President of our chapter is a great leader and the banquet went off without a hitch.  Kevin Grubbs our local Regional Director for Virginia is a class act and I have had the pleasure of hunting with him in Idaho for Elk and Mule Deer.

Next year our banquet will be on April 4th, 2009 and we look forward to doing it all again.  We will be hosting a Jakes Event this year as well as putting some of these funds on the ground for conservation and habitat improvement.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 07:42 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

1st Lt. Kyle Burns with Jodi and Weston Clark after Burns received a three-day dream turkey hunting trip during the NWTF's annual Convention and Sport Show.

After beginning his recovery from wounds received during Operation Enduring Freedom, 1st Lt. Kyle Burns of Ft. Benning, Ga., became determined to one day walk through the woods and hunt with his father again. Recently, Burns did just that.

With guides Weston and Jodi Clark, owners of Higher Ground Outfitters and hosts of Outdoor Channel's "Higher Ground Outdoors (Pursuing the Heart of America) and Harold Knight and David Hale of Knight & Hale Game Calls, Burns hunted with his father just outside of Nashville, Tenn., and harvested his fourth gobbler, a large Eastern.

Burns received the three-day, all-expenses-paid dream turkey-hunting trip during a patriotic breakfast sponsored by Federal Premium Ammunition at the National Wild Turkey Federation's annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta. A member of the NWTF's River City Gobblers Chapter in Columbus, Ga., Burns attended the national convention to help pass out commemorative pins to Purple Heart recipients who attended the NWTF's Veteran's breakfast.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:52 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

OLATHE, Kan. — The Buffalo Gals of Olathe Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is holding its second annual Women's Outdoor Skills Workshop — a fun-filled weekend for women — April 25 to April 26, 2008.

Co-hosted by Bass Pro Shops of Olathe, the event will take place at the historic Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farmstead in Olathe, and will offer more than 25 classes on archery, canoeing, shooting, fishing, turkey calling, Dutch oven cooking, blacksmithing, jewelry making and more. Experienced instructors will be present to provide hands-on experience during the classes.

The Buffalo Gals of Olathe Chapter's inaugural event was recognized during the NWTF's annual Convention and Sport Show as the overall best new event, had the best new event membership achievement and best new event highest dollars out of all Women in the Outdoors events held nationwide in 2007.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 07:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

2008 IDAHO BIGHORN SHEEP RAFFLE

TICKET ORDERS MUSTBE RECEIVED BY:    July 28, 2008

Idaho Chapter FNAWS
P. O. Box 8224
Boise, ID 83707

No tickets are sent to buyer. We make out and submit tickets for you.

Idaho Chapter Foundation for North American Wild Sheep is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization. Funds from the Idaho
Bighorn Sheep Raffle are used for the benefit and enhancement of bighorn sheep in Idaho.

1 ticket ($ 10)

6 tickets ($ 50)

13 tickets ($100)

25 tickets ($174.50)

No limit to number of tickets purchased per individual.

Winner will be able to hunt in any unit open to sheep hunting
for Rocky Mountain or California bighorn in 2008,
pursuant to Fish & Game regulations.

Idaho's 2008 Raffle tag includes Unit 11--Hells Canyon
of the Snake River. Hells Canyon has produced
many tremendous rams.

Hunting license and permit will be provided to winner.

Applicant must be eligible to apply for a hunting license
in Idaho in order to purchase these special
tickets.

This permit is non-transferrable. No purchase
necessary, void where prohibited.

Applicant must be 18 years of age to purchase a ticket
and 18 years of age to win the sheep permit.

Drawing will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2008,
at 2:00 p.m. MDT at IF&G Headquarters, 600 S.
Walnut, Boise, Idaho.

Once-in-a-lifetime rule is waived for this raffle tag.

Need not be present to win.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:39 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, an international conservation group focused on habitat protection and enhancement, has announced its 2008 first-round project grants for Colorado.
 
Sixteen conservation grants totaling $182,647 have been awarded. Another $43,449 is available for allocation in second-round grants to be announced later this year.
 
Grants will affect Clear Creek, Dolores, Grand, Jackson, Las Animas, Mesa, Montrose, Park and Rio Blanco counties. An additional project has statewide interest.
 
“This is all about ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat in Colorado,” said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO. “Grants are based on revenues from Elk Foundation fundraising banquets in Colorado, as well as worthy project proposals.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:31 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Guest Blogger Mike Carter from Mule Deer Fanatic. sent us this very interesting article on his thought on what we can do to improve Mule Deer Hunting in Utah.

Would love to hear all of your opinions on this article!!! 

Kevin asked me to address the subject "Improving Mule Deer Hunting in Utah". I must say, first, that hunting mule deer in Utah is excellent, it's the finding that is difficult.

Let's define the problem. What would improve Utah Mule Deer Hunting?

•    1) More mule deer (many more)
•    2) More big bucks
•    3) More access to land
•    4) Equal opportunity
•    5) Longer seasons
•    6) Lower prices
•    7) Simplified Regs

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:25 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Springfield, Ill. – April 17, 2008 – Hunters, trapshooters, and conservationists in southern Illinois have formed the state's newest Quail Forever (QF) chapter. The Southern Illinois Clay Bird Chapter of QF, as the group will be known, is focused on promoting shooting sports to Illinois youth.
 
Leading the chapter is Donnellson resident Rhonda Laurent, an avid trap shooter and quail hunter who also holds a position on the Illinois ladies trapshooting team. The Lincoln, Illinois, native, who is the chapter's treasurer and secretary, became interested in shooting sports within the past seven years and placed second overall in the state in lady's handicap last year. Laurent says the chapter plans to direct its focus on increasing youth interest in shooting sports. "If our hunting and shooting heritage is going to continue, then we need to get the next generation involved" she said, "The time to get them started is now."

Laurent said the chapter was drawn to QF's local model.  Pheasants Forever launched Quail Forever in August of 2005 to address the continuing loss of habitat suitable for quail and the subsequent quail population decline. QF chapters promote local, state, and federal conservation programs that help landowners protect environmentally sensitive acres for quail and other wildlife. They also employ the organization's unique model of empowering local chapters with 100 percent control of the chapters' locally-raised funds to complete habitat and youth education projects in the chapters' own communities.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:12 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Tucson, Arizona – Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) has partnered with Bass Pro Shops to sponsor teachers to attend SCIF’s American Wilderness Leadership School (AWLS) in Jackson Hole, WY to learn more about hunting, fishing and the outdoors.
 
Attending the Leadership School at the AWLS ranch will help promote positive experiences for teachers and will give them a greater understanding of the outdoors. Each Bass Pro Shop will sponsor one teacher to attend the AWLS Ranch from July 30th to August 6th, 2008.
 
“SCI Foundation is proud to work with Bass Pro Shops by bringing the teachers of our youth such a hands-on experience at AWLS,” said SCIF President Dennis Anderson. “We hope that they can take some stories and adventures back to the classroom.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:35 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

It is time for the Spring Gobbler Turkey Contest!  This year our contest will be the best photo submitted to our gallery of your 2008 Spring Gobbler.  The winner will receive a prize package worth over $100.00 in product shipped to you from Team HuntingLife.

Gobbler Season is in full swing around the country and should continue for the next month or so.  We will pick a winner on June 4th, 2008 and announce it right here on the site. 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:50 AM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

WASHINGTON – After months of behind-closed-door debate and negotiation, the U.S. House of Representatives has named its members chosen to take part in the House-Senate conference to negotiate a final version of the Farm Bill with the U.S. Senate. The latest extension of the 2002 Farm Bill expires on April 18, so the conferees must agree to a final bill and pass it through the full House and Senate or extend the previous bill again.

“We are glad to see Congress stepping forward on this bill – we hope that they will show similar initiative in ensuring that programs like the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) remain as viable options for farmers and ranchers to conserve their land,” said Don Young, Executive Vice President for Ducks Unlimited. “Sportsmen contribute more than $76 billion to the economy every year, and protecting habitat through agriculture conservation is absolutely critical to ensuring that future generations of outdoor enthusiasts have healthy habitats and clean waters to enjoy the outdoors.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:56 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 14, 2008

The team at Doug and Nicks Game Face Gear and QuikCamo sent me one of the coolest hats I have seen in a long time.  The hat is incredibly well made, soft, looks great and comes with a sewn in face mask that is incredibly well thought out and fits perfectly.

The eye holes are perfectly lined up and large enough that you do not have to squint to see out of it and it has holes for the ears that are covered in mesh so you can hear the outdoors clearly.  In a word this hat rocks!  I got the QuickCamo front and they have two options one with the front face mask and one with the Facemask coming out of the hat on the rear of the hat.

I have a couple of hundred baseball caps from all the banquets and events and golf courses I have gone to but I am pretty sure that this hat is going to be my favorite while I am hunting!

Go get yourself one quik!!!!

www.QuikCamo.com 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:31 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 14, 2008

04/14/2008

Arlen Lancaster, chief of the NRCS, and Dr. James Earl Kennamer, the NWTF's senior vice president for conservation programs, recently renewed a Memorandum of Understanding that will continue improving habitat and helping landowners.

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Thanks to partnerships between the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), thousands of acres of wildlife habitat have been conserved and improved throughout the nation.

To continue improving wildlife habitat and helping landowners, the NWTF and NRCS recently renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU, which was first signed by the two groups in 2003, will continue their partnership until 2013.

"We're proud of our partnership and all we've accomplished with the NRCS," said the NWTF's Senior Vice President for Conservation Programs, Dr. James Earl Kennamer. "By continuing this commitment, the NWTF -- along with our 2,350 chapters -- can continue to make big improvements for wildlife on private land nationwide."

The purpose of the MOU is to maintain and enhance habitat for wild turkeys and other wildlife on private land. Projects include conserving and restoring habitat, providing technical services to landowners, collaborating on habitat and wildlife research and developing habitat enhancement techniques.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:44 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 14, 2008

Rick Bolton just might have caught onto something that could bring in $10 million in sales for him during the next seven years.

The Waldorf resident and master waterfowl hunting guide has mixed his creative spark with practicality to invent a decoy most hunters will appreciate, he says.

It’s called Real Illusion Corn Kernels — plastic rings of corn kernel look-alikes that can be linked together and used to attract ducks, geese, turkey or deer.

Because luring waterfowl with real food or bait is illegal, Bolton said his product, which he has used on his own hunts by burying it under straw next to goose decoys in fields, is the next best thing.

So do sporting goods and outdoor stores.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:55 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 14, 2008

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) has signed a key wildlife conservation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The signing took place on March 26 at the recent North American Wildlife Conference held in Phoenix, Ariz.

The MOU establishes a formal framework of cooperation and coordination for MDF’s relationship with these two federal land-management agencies. More specifically, the MOU calls for joint planning and implementation of projects, programs, and activities that maintain and enhance the productivity of mule deer and black-tailed deer populations and their habitats.

The Forest Service manages 193 million acres across the United States that provide significant amounts of habitat for mule deer and black-tailed deer. The BLM manages 258 million acres of public lands that include 206 million acres of big game habitat.

Mule Deer Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Miles Moretti said, “This MOU will help us put more habitat projects on the ground at the local BLM and Forest Service district level.” Moretti added, “MDF’s partnership with these agencies shows the willingness of all parties to make mule deer and black-tailed deer enhancement and conservation a high priority.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:56 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 14, 2008

The most recent NASGW Annual Meeting and Expo Industry Breakfast was no exception – LaPierre was the keynote speaker and he had a powerful message of hope and responsibility to share with the record-breaking crowd in attendance. It’s possible to argue that he was preaching to the choir, but this particular choir was made up of industry leaders who left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of what we can do, both individually and collectively, to support the NRA and maintain our shooting sports heritage and businesses.

“It’s so important for us all, as individuals and as an industry, to protect our rights and shared heritage,” said Wayne Smith, NASGW President. “It’s about carrying the message of responsibility through action that will enable us to maintain our businesses, and continue our legacy with generations to come. The real bedrock of belief in freedom espoused by the NRA will resonate with so many Americans, and have the unifying ability to cross over party lines.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:38 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Saturday was a beautiful day in the Virginia Countryside as hunters all over the state headed to the woods to chase the spring gobblers.  My usual haunts for spring gobblers were all filled up and one is being developed with new homes so we headed to the Rapidan WMA above Madison, Virginia.  Up in the hills attached to the National Park we headed in search of a really dumb gobbler.  What we found instead was a good bonding session between Tristan and I and a ton of deer.

Tristan and I were up at 4:30am and on the road in about 10 minutes.  We made it down to Madison in about an hour and got the truck fueled up and Tristan fueled up with some chocolate milk and a couple of breakfast bars and off we went.  Arriving early we jumped out of the truck to see a pretty nice herd of 10 to 12 deer boogie up over the mountain in front of us and deer on all sides of our location.

Of course they were all huffing and blowing as they headed up the mountain side letting the world know we were coming up the mountain and we heard that gobbler let loose on the next mountain over as we began our ascent.  I am pretty sure that is the first mountain Tristan has climbed since he was about 3 years old and it was a little tough for him.  Otherwise we got some great pictures and we had a ton of fun.  Tristan carried the BB gun and I let him shoot the 410 shotgun. 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 06:30 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 11, 2008

Merriam's Wild Turkeys Flourishing in Big Sky Country

GREAT FALLS, Mont.— Over the past five years, 690 Merriam's wild turkeys have been relocated to suitable wild turkey habitat across Montana. According to National Wild Turkey Federation Regional Biologist Jared McJunkin, the birds are doing well.

"We think things will only get better from here," said McJunkin. "What an exciting time to be a turkey hunter in Montana!"

This past winter, 156 Merriam's were trapped and then released in areas across the state with suitable wild turkey habitat. One such area is the Bear Paw Mountains near Great Falls, Mont., where NWTF Montana State Chapter President Bodie Grundel says the excitement is palpable among outdoor enthusiasts.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:58 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Martinsville, Ind. – April 8, 2008 – In an effort to reverse the dramatic decline in the local bobwhite quail population, conservationists in Indiana's Morgan, Johnson and Hendricks Counties have formed the state's newest Quail Forever (QF) chapter, known as the Tri-County Chapter of QF.

Development and clean farming have eaten away vital bobwhite quail habitat in the counties, which are south of Indianapolis. "We have a few coveys here and there, but it is pretty light," said Jerry Henson of Martinsville, the chapter's president, "This area's quail have been begging for some attention."

Henson says the chapter is excited about Quail Forever because it will help involve local communities in fighting the problem. Pheasants Forever launched Quail Forever in August of 2005 to address the continuing loss of habitat suitable for quail and the subsequent quail population decline. QF chapters promote local, state, and federal conservation programs that help landowners protect environmentally sensitive acres for quail and other wildlife. They also employ the organization's unique model of empowering local chapters with 100 percent control of the chapters' locally-raised funds to complete habitat and youth education projects in the chapters' own communities.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:36 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Game Warden Staffing Levels Undeniably Worst In North America Compromising Public Safety, Salmon And Natural Resource ProtectionFor the first time in the state's history, California completely banned commercial and sport fishing of salmon. While scientists, policy makers, and politicians scratch their heads and point fingers at everything from ocean conditions to global warming, the California Fish and Game Wardens Association (CFGWA) has been predicting this calamity for the past two years.

Few have listened. Salmon populations have been pressured by water diversions, loss of habitat from dams, sedimentation from development and agriculture, pollution, and a reduction in timber and riparian overgrowth which moderate water temperatures. In addition to these stressors, salmon face pressure from a human activity that could easily be curtailed and controlled - POACHING.

The CFGWA produced two Exposes' chronicling these predictions in 2006 and 2007 (available online at www.californiafishandgamewardens.com.) These Exposes' document the rapid decline of California's fish and wildlife resources due to massive increases in poaching and blackmarket trade. These increases in fish and wildlife crime have a direct cause: California's deplorable failure to support the individuals who enforce the laws that protect salmon - Game Wardens.

Download Complete Story and Numbers for the Nations Game Wardens in pdf 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:01 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

The National Wild Turkey Federation and its partners have announced a land purchase in south central Tennessee as part of its More Places to Hunt initiative.

The NWTF and its Tennessee state chapter contributed $110,000 towards the purchase of the property, which is comprised of the Estelle Fork tract in Franklin County, and contains 874 acres of woodlands.

The property adjoins the 15,000-acre Bear Hollow Mountain Wildlife Management Area and will enhance hunting opportunities for sportsmen and women in the Volunteer State and beyond. Upon completion of the purchase, ownership of the land will be granted to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), and the acreage will be added to Tennessee's public lands for all to enjoy.

Through the More Places to Hunt initiative, the NWTF is working to increase access to hunting lands via land purchases, conservation easements, agency hunter access programs, legislative action and working with partners. To date, the Federation has spent more than $9 million and obtained more than 400,000 acres for hunting.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:58 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, an international conservation organization focused on habitat protection and enhancement, has announced its 2008 project grants for Pennsylvania.
 
Four grants totaling $86,571 will affect Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton and Elk counties.
 
The Elk Foundation has allocated another $17,314 for additional Pennsylvania grants to be announced later this year, plus $69,225 in funding for the new Pennsylvania Wilds Elk Country Visitor Center at Winslow Hill. This new conservation education attraction, expected to break ground later this year, is being developed around local input and a wide variety of public and private partners.
 
“This is all about ensuring the future of elk in Pennsylvania and helping the public enjoy this magnificent native species as well as the other wildlife that shares elk habitat,” said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO. “Grants are based on revenues from Elk Foundation fundraising banquets in Pennsylvania, as well as worthy project proposals.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:54 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Pierre, S.D. – April 8, 2008 – South Dakota pheasants, begging for some positive news after the expiration of 302,857 Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres in the state last fall, received it last week. On Thursday, March 27th, the USDA Farm Service Agency opened enrollment for South Dakota's new State Acres For wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) program. As part of the continuous enrollment portion of CRP, the SAFE practice specifically targets smaller critical portions of farms and is focused on pheasant production. By close of business on Friday, April 4th, 11,715 acres in 25 South Dakota Counties had been already been offered for SAFE enrollment out of the original allocation of 20,200 acres.

Announced this January, SAFE represents an important change to CRP that encourages state-specific wildlife focused projects. South Dakota's approved SAFE project designates 20,200 acres for pheasant nesting habitat with an additional 500 acres to be used for sage grouse habitat in the northwestern part of the state. A continuous CRP practice, SAFE acres give producers more competitive rental rates than general CRP and additional incentive payments.

"Last September 30th, 300,000 acres of South Dakota CRP expired, and the vast majority has been plowed or prepared for crop production," said Dave Nomsen, Pheasants Forever's Vice President of Government Affairs, "While clearly not a complete replacement of those acres, the strategic targeted approach of small parcels of CRP through SAFE, in close association with crop production, can be win-win for farming and pheasants." Nomsen continued, "Despite record-level land and commodity prices and demand for additional commodity production, the early SAFE return is evidence that farmers and landowners still possess strong interest in CRP and wildlife."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:52 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

EDGEFIELD, S.C.— Although South Carolina is known as the Palmetto State, the National Wild Turkey Federation is helping landowners establish a different kind of beautiful tree on their properties - the oak.

Through the NWTF's Operation Oak initiative, more than 16,000 oak tree seedlings were recently distributed to 83 private landowners across 37 counties in South Carolina. The seedlings are in the ground and on their way to providing food and shelter for wildlife, in addition to beautifying and increasing the value of the landowners' properties. Almost 90 percent of South Carolina's 19.3 million acres are privately owned, highlighting the need for programs such as Operation Oak.

"These seedlings represent another phase of the Federation's plan to benefit wildlife as well as our children," said Don Going, NWTF South Carolina State Chapter president. "It's imperative that we leave a lasting legacy to show future generations the importance of taking care of the land. I can't think of a more symbolic example of that environmental legacy than thousands of tall, mighty oaks."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:48 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Until HuntingLife.com becomes an international corporation run by a board of directors it is going to be my personal soapbox as well as a site that shares information on the North American Hunter Conservation Model.  As well it was designed to help people pursue a well lived life.

Huntinglife.com is the community to pursue your passions of hunting, conservation and a well lived life.

Today we are going to share some information with you all if your willing to watch it about Professor Randy Pausch.  The attached video is his last lecture to Carnegie Mellon University where he was a professor for many years.

I encourage you all to read it and share this link with as many people as possible.  We all have one great life to live on this planet, we might as well live it as though every day was our last day on this world and learn some of life's great lessons.  Professor Pausch has much to teach!!!!

Buy the Book Here

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:09 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

John Murphy and the entire team for the Washington State Quail Forever Chapter is really doing a bang up job!  I could not be more happy to be a member of this chapter and am proud to support them.

Take a look at this amazing website.

Columbia Basin Quail Forever

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:41 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

DOUBLE SPRINGS, Ala. - Ask any wildlife biologist what it takes to keep wildlife healthy, happy and close to home, and they'll tell you it's all about having good habitat.

Learn how to improve wildlife habitat on your property by attending the National Wild Turkey Federation's Wildlife Habitat Management Workshop Friday, May 9, 2008, at the Brushy Lake Recreation Area in Double Springs, Ala.

During the workshop, participants will learn about the benefits of prescribed fire for wildlife and timber management. Landowners and managers also will spend time with experts learning how to thin pine plantations to improve wildlife habitat, manage hardwood stands for wildlife and timber, manage wildlife openings to attract wildlife and more.

Landowners also will learn the benefits of planting longleaf pines, which provide excellent habitat for many species including wild turkeys, white-tailed deer and quail, as well as threatened or endangered species such as indigo snakes, red-cockaded woodpeckers and gopher tortoises. Longleaf pines also produce a high-value timber that generally grows at the same rates as the more commonly planted slash and loblolly pines, and longleaf also is more resistant to disease, insects, fire and wind damage (even from hurricanes) than other pines.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:33 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

BOGART, GA. – David Wambold of Mascoutah, Illinois, thought his $30 would cover the standard one-year membership in the Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA). But when he joined through the QDMA Web site on March 31, he pushed the nonprofit conservation organization to 50,000 active members and earned himself a complimentary Life Membership in the process.

“I was looking for help with food plots and habitat improvement, and a friend suggested I join QDMA. He loaned me a couple of his Quality Whitetails magazines, and I also saw the QDMA television show, and I was extremely impressed,” said David, a retired aquatic biologist, whose family jointly owns a 100-acre hunting property. “I never win anything, so it was a complete surprise when I learned I had won a Life Membership. From what I’ve seen of QDMA’s materials and message, this is a fantastic prize.”

“David’s story is a perfect example for explaining QDMA’s continued growth,” said executive director Brian Murphy. “It is a reflection of the growing interest in deer management, habitat improvement, and land and wildlife conservation. Many deer hunters like David are managing land, especially small tracts, to create quality deer habitat and better deer hunting. QDMA has the information, expertise and support to help them achieve these goals.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:15 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

I just got an email from the VAWFA today and it alarmed me and I am going to learn some more about the situation but I had an initial reaction and I wanted to share it all with you.

The email I got was:

Dear VAWFA Members,
 If some you are unaware, a local Northern Virginia newspaper has publish an article that has upset many waterfowler in Virginia. Enclosed is a hyper link to the newspaper article. According to the article, a local Northern Virginia group wishes to prohibit waterfowl hunting in the Northern Virginia area.  

http://www.connectionnewspapers.com  The VAWFA is in the process of identifying issues of the concerns. We have been in touch with state and federal agencies to address the issues. At this time, we are still inquiring and will advise the membership in the future.
 

Todd Cocker
President
Virginia Waterfowlers’ Association

I wrote the following letter to the author of the article.

Michael,

I appreciate your reporting about the group working to end hunting in Dyke Marsh. I am glad to now know of the situation and will work to learn more.

I need to point out some factual errors that you have in your story.First and foremost hunters of ducks use shotguns and not rifles to hunt ducks.  Thus the comment that this woman was shot at and the bullet landed on the roof and rolled into the gutter is just not true. As well the distance of 200 feet could not possible be correct.  66 yards from her house with a floating blind makes very little sense.  I would be more then willing to go out with you to her home and bring out a tape measure and I can assure you that this particular blind was a lot further from her home then 200 feet.

As well the definition of a Federal Preserve is that this area is open to hunting. In fact a good majority of the money that funds the conservation resources that pay for the Federal Wetlands around the country comes from money from the Roberts-Pittman act.  As well millions of dollars have gone towards the protection of these marshes and wetlands from all across the country have been raised by hunter conservationists.  Groups like Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl and the VAWFA as well as hundreds of small groups that are comprised of hunter conservationists all across the country provide the money and the man hours needed to protect these areas

.A good question that can be asked of these individuals who would like to prevent hunting in this area is how much money have they donated to protect wetlands and marshes and the waterfowl that exist in those areas.The Chesepeake Bay and the Potomac Watershed have long been areas that supported wildlife and hunters in coexistence and it is our encroaching housing needs that are in turn hurting wildlife.

I would be more then happy to introduce you to groups all across Virginia that are making a difference for our wildlife and habitats in the state of Virginia.--

Kevin C. Paulson

Founder & CEO

HuntingLife.com

11005 North Lamont Court

Fredericksburg, VA 22407

202-744-5806

kevin@huntinglife.com

Http://www.HuntingLife.com

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:56 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE JAYHAWKS!!!!!!!

Our Regular Programming will resume late on Tuesday with Turkey Tips coming from Chris Hadley and all the conservation news that we can come up with!!!!

ALL of this makes me want to go chase some big Kansas bucks!!!! 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:16 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 7, 2008

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah - MDF fundraising banquets and events will once again have the great support of Cabela's, the World's Foremost Outfitter, based out of Sidney, Neb. Cabela's, a long-time partner of the MDF, has pledged its support to the future of mule deer and mule deer habitat by underwriting three fundraising programs for 2008 MDF banquets and events.

MDF's Ray Crow and Cabela's started talking about 2008 sponsorship opportunities late in 2007 and came up with a great way for MDF banquets to raise much-needed funds with the help of Cabela's. The end result was the sponsorship of the 2008 Banquet Knife by Marble's Cutlery, 2008 Print of the Year by Cynthie Fisher, and the MDF calendar that is always a treat for our members.

MDF's Ray Crow said, "We are so excited to have Cabela's support our mission once again this year, and we can't thank Cabela's enough for their continued generosity and support."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 05:38 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 7, 2008

Saint Paul, Minn. – April 7, 2008 – Nearly 40 Minnesota financial advisors, accountants and insurance agents have formed the first chapter of Pheasants Forever (PF) constituted specifically for financial professionals. Based out of the Twin Cites metro area, the new chapter will be known as the MN Financial Advisor Chapter of PF.

The chapter is led by Anthony Kosobud, a native North Dakotan, lifelong hunter and a current Regional Sales Manager for a large insurance company based in the United States, who hails from a family of bankers from the Dakotas. "Whether it's taking clients hunting or discussing legacy planning, financial advisors have a vested interest in Pheasants Forever's mission," Kosobud said, "This new chapter will be a blending of our craft and conservation." A father of three, Kosobud said he and the other inaugural chapter members also hope to cultivate outdoor interest in their own children and other youth. "I see too many kids not wanting to get outdoors, and we need to change that," he said.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 05:35 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 7, 2008

Delta Waterfowl President Rob Olson says that Congress needs to pass the federal Farm Bill before the April 18th deadline expires and that lawmakers should make conservation funding a high priority.

"Congress extended the Farm Bill, but time is running out before it expires," says Olson. "If a new bill isn't passed, or if there is a long-term extension of the current law, conservation funding is going to take a dramatic hit, particularly some of our most important programs for migratory waterfowl. It's critical that Delta Waterfowl members and others contact their elected officials in the House and Senate and tell them to pass a new Farm Bill, one that significantly increases conservation funding. I can't stress enough how important this is to the future of ducks and duck hunting."

Olson says three programs in particular are vital to sustaining the long-term future of duck production in the U.S. portion of the Prairie Pothole Region (PPR), the nation's duck factory:

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 05:27 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Charlton Heston was an Oscar winning actor and for many years from 1998 to 2002 he was the President of the National Rifle Association.   I remember him from Ben-Hur and the Planet of the Apes.

The following is a statement from Wayne LaPierre:

Statement of Wayne LaPierre, Executive Vice President of the National Rifle Association of America:

Today, my heart is heavy with the loss of Charlton Heston. America has lost a great patriot. The Second Amendment has lost a faithful friend. So have I, and so have four million NRA members and eighty million gun owners. And so has every American who cares about the Bill of Rights, individual liberty, and Freedom.

My heart is heavy, but not without a sense of pride. Pride in a man who devoted his life to his profession with grace and dignity. Pride in an American who devoted himself to civil rights, to correcting injustices around him, and to standing up for what he knew was right. Pride in a friend who stood with me and stood with fellow NRA members to preserve our freedom for future generations. Pride in a patriot who believed with every fiber of his being that our Bill of Rights is the foundation of our freedom that makes Americans singular among the masses of nations.

And now, Charlton Heston has passed that duty to us - the next generation. I am as proud to continue his cause as I am to have known him as my friend.

But today, my thoughts cannot leave the Heston family. They have always had my utmost respect and admiration and, today, they have my deepest sympathy and most earnest prayers, And they will always have my friendship.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:35 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, April 5, 2008

More than half of U.S. anglers are aware of the Anglers’ Legacy and Take Me Fishing programs, according to a recent survey. In a March 2008 poll of almost 2,000 anglers by AnglerSurvey.com, anglers were asked if they have heard of the Anglers’ Legacy Program or the Take Me Fishing website. Of the anglers surveyed, well over half (53%) said they were aware of Anglers’ Legacy and Take Me Fishing. About 47% of anglers reported they were not aware of the programs.

Anglers’ Legacy and the Take Me Fishing™ national campaign are programs of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF), a non-profit organization dedicated to growing participation in fishing, boating and aquatic stewardship.

“These survey results will help us grow our Anglers’ Legacy and Take Me Fishing programs and increase participation nationwide in boating and fishing,” said RBFF President and CEO Frank Peterson. “Over the next several months, we will be expanding our Anglers’ Legacy program with rewards features for Ambassadors and announcing a new Take Me Fishing campaign which captures the excitement and memories associated with boating and fishing. Together, these programs could have a large financial impact on both industries and statewide conservation efforts.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 4, 2008

MISSOULA, Mont.—Another 330 acres of South Dakota elk country will always be as it’s always been.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has announced phase-three completion of a project to permanently protect 2,400 acres from the crush of development that is changing forever the state’s Black Hills area.

Tucked in southern Custer County bordering Wind Cave National Park, the Lady C Ranch sought help from the Elk Foundation to protect a tract called Wildcat Canyon. In a deal brokered by the habitat conservation group, segments of the land are gradually being transferred from the ranch to the U.S. Forest Service. The first two phases moved 482 acres into public access as part of the Black Hills National Forest.

“This project is the No. 1 priority within our Black Hills conservation effort,” said David Allen, a Deadwood, S.D., native now serving as president and CEO of the Elk Foundation.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:19 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 4, 2008

Newtown, Connecticut -- For the sixth consecutive year, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has announced grants to states for projects designed to enlist new hunters, and retain existing ones.

"These grants were awarded on the strengths of the concepts presented to preserve our hunting traditions, by adding to the ranks of hunters and encouraging current hunters to continue their participation," said Doug Painter, president of NSSF.

The 2008 Hunting Heritage Partnership grants include an increase of $250,000 over last year, thanks to a new partnership with Safari Club International. To date, the program has contributed more than $2.8 million to state agencies.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:05 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 4, 2008

Assemblyman Gary Chiusano called Governor Jon Corzine’s threat to shutting at least nine state parks this summer another strong arm tactic employed by the Administration that he said is “reprehensible, childish and a betrayal of the public’s trust.

“Once again, this governor is holding hostage the taxpayers of this state by threatening to close down one of the Garden State’s richest natural resources – our state parks,” said Chiusano. “We understand the concept of cutting spending. If fact, Assembly Republicans have led that charge for the past six years and have been ignored. But there’s a difference between responsible cuts aimed at waste and abuse and strong arm tactics whose purpose is to intimidate in order to protect one’s political base.”