Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Frankfort, Kentucky - Hunters now have three extra days to apply for the 2009 Kentucky elk hunt. Citing technical problems over the past few days with state government's online payment application, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources officials today extended the original April 30 deadline to midnight Eastern Time, May 3.

"We want to ensure that everyone who wants to apply has that chance," said Wildlife Division Director Karen Alexy. "We've already had a record number of applicants because Kentucky is issuing a record number of its elk permits. The word is getting around that a Kentucky elk hunt is truly the hunt of a lifetime."

To date, more than 37,500 people have applied for the 2009 general elk hunt while an additional 375 people have applied for the special Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area (WMA) youth hunt. Kentucky will issue 1,002 permits for the general elk hunt, and five permits for the WMA youth hunt. The deadline extension applies to both the general hunt and the WMA youth hunt.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:41 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Congratulations to the guys at Sitka Gear for creating such a great pack.  This Pack is an absolute winner and it will be what we will be carrying in the mountains this year!!!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:19 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—Wild elk populations in 23 states are higher now than 25 years ago when the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) was launched to help conserve habitat for elk and other wildlife.

Nationally, elk numbers grew 44 percent, from about 715,000 to over 1,031,000, between 1984 and 2009 (see chart) .

During that same time span, Elk Foundation fundraisers generated millions of dollars, which helped leverage millions more, for a conservation effort that has enhanced or protected nearly a square mile of habitat per day—now totaling over 5.5 million acres.

Population highlights among top elk states: California, Nevada and New Mexico experienced the greatest increases with growth exceeding 100 percent. Colorado, Montana and Utah herds are 50-70 percent larger. Oregon and Wyoming are up 20-40 percent.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:12 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Temecula, Calif., April 27 -- Outdoor Channel, America's leader in Outdoor TV, today announced an exclusive partnership with Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors, a leading national organization dedicated to providing youth with mentors who will share with them the experiences of traditional outdoor activities. Outdoor Channel's relationship with Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors adds to its existing partnerships with more than a dozen conservation organizations and champions of the outdoors including Boy Scouts of America, Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Safari Club International, Trout Unlimited and Pheasants Forever, among others. It is one more demonstration of Outdoor Channel's robust commitment to promoting the preservation of the outdoors and encouraging future generations to enjoy traditional outdoor pursuits.

As part of the relationship, Outdoor Channel will serve as Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors' exclusive television partner, participating in all of Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors' youth mentoring events and filming select events for inclusion in Outdoor Channel's growing slate of original programming. Outdoor Channel will also use its extensive access to a roster of popular outdoor celebrities and personalities to endorse Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors in public service announcements on-air and on its Web site located at www.outdoorchannel.com. Outdoor Channel will also leverage its leadership position with affiliates, advertisers and outdoor affinity and conservation organizations to create customized marketing programs around Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors and youth mentoring.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:05 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Cpl Matt Reyes Pro Staffer with Huntin' with the Judge and Third Eye Guides and Outfitters sent me the following letter and some great pictures from the 3rd Annual AFF Huntin' The Hill Country Exotic Smackdown.  It looks they had an amazing time taking these service men and women out hunting.  The Judge and the entire team at Huntin' with the Judge should be absolutely applauded for the work they are doing with these servicemen and women.

READ Cpl Matt Reyes Letter Here

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:56 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Introducing Logan Hinners, our newest Team HuntingLife Pro Staff Member.  We are proud to have Logan on our team and we look forward to many more of his stories and reviews and some great footage this fall.

My favorite hiding spot in the world is also the place I’m able to see most clearly. Whether it is in the middle of a quit woods watching the stillness and patients of a deer, or on top of a mountain watching the courage and strength of a majestic bull elk, I’m able to really think about why hunting is so important to me. I am able to see how it has affected some of the most important things in my life; family and personal self worth. This leads me to an antelope hunt in Northern Colorado with my Dad and little brother Kale.

After a mid-morning brunch my dad, brother and I returned to the field. While driving down the road, I happened to glance off to my left; immediately hitting the brakes as I grabbed for my binoculars the pickup skidded to an abrupt stop. “Good Buck!” was the only words needed to get my younger brother Kale, reaching for his rifle. Dad leaned forward from the back seat and agreed with my observation, “Yep, good one!”   

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 02:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn. --With hunting facing a range of challenges from access to urbanization, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has announced grants that will assist states with projects designed to keep current hunters active and introduce newcomers.

For the seventh year, NSSF will give promising program proposals its support, with $499,060 going to nine state agencies. Arizona Game & Fish Department earned two awards, totaling $82,500, and Arizona, Colorado and Oregon were first-time grant recipients. Since its inception, NSSF's Hunting Heritage Partnership program has contributed more than $3.3 million in support of projects managed by state natural resource agencies.

"Hunting faces challenges that are often state-specific, and these grants from the National Shooting Sports Foundation help make possible programs that state agencies might not otherwise be able to provide," said Steve Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO. "This year's recipients are right on target with initiatives addressing access issues and encouraging inactive hunters to go afield once again."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:26 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

TUCSON, AZ –As the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) prepares for the largest national tournament in history, it announced another historical landmark. NASP and the Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) announced that 250-350 educators each year will be trained as archery instructors through SCIF’s American Wilderness Leadership School near Jackson, Wyoming.
 
“This will be the largest single source of new National Archery in the Schools instructors,” said NASP’s Roy Grimes, who has been working closely with SCIF Education Director Sue Hankner to launch the historic initiative.
 
SCIF President Merle Shepard said: “SCI Foundation understands that archery helps students improve lifelong skills like concentration, self-control, discipline and dedication, while it also introduces them to the fun of the shooting sports.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:11 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Hunting and angling groups call on Sec. Vilsack to ensure Colorado roadless rule
sustains important fish and wildlife habitat

WASHINGTON – An assemblage of prominent sportsmen-conservationist groups today pointedly criticized a proposed plan for management of Colorado’s national forest roadless areas and asked U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to intervene in the rule-making process until fundamental problems with the draft plan can be resolved.

Colorado Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Colorado Trout Unlimited, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Trout Unlimited’s Sportsmen’s Conservation Project expressed significant concerns about the ability of the proposed Colorado roadless rule to sustain important fish and wildlife habitat. The groups stressed that finalization of the Colorado roadless rule should be deferred until key officials are appointed at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Forest Service and a review of the proposed rule can be undertaken.

“The proposed Colorado roadless rule does not adequately conserve Colorado’s roadless areas and can be substantially improved and clarified,” said Joel Webster, TRCP associate director of campaigns. “Colorado’s backcountry areas are world-class, and hunters and anglers have a huge stake in assuring their responsible management.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:02 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 24, 2009

By Don Rickards, (eldondo) Team HuntingLife

That may not mean a lot to some, but for me it means I have a place in history now.

Sometimes things happen for a reason.  My wife and I had purchased plane tickets (last fall) for the beginning of the 2009 hunting season in Africa, but our plans were to spend more time visiting than hunting this trip.  In December, our dear friend and remarkable PH, Pieter Potgieter of Motsomi Safaris acquired the hunting rights in a new concession in Mozambique. It is about 60 miles into the Gaza strip and north of Chicualacula bordering the Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe.

Because we have been hunting with Pieter for years (and he is the only person I would ever willingly trust with our lives in Africa), he was comfortable with us going to the new place before the lodge was totally finished. And he wanted to go and see the progress since there were delays in the building because of the record level heavy rains this year. What a great side trip!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 02:35 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 24, 2009

The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) received a “jump start” to its new “Donated Firearms Program” from the Savage Sports Corporation with a generous donation of 72 rifles and pistols. 

Ron Coburn, Chairman/CEO of Savage Sports Corporation , and a passionate supporter of youth shooting sports programs, saw an opportunity to kick off this novel means of generating funds to purchase equipment and supplies needed by priority youth shooting sports programs nationwide.

Ron stated “I dug out a list of salesmen samples and writer’s guns that we have quarantined for future need.  In reality, they will just sit around a long time.  There are over 70 such items in all calibers- so there is something for everyone.  The cumulative fair market value of these firearms is substantial, but again, they are just collecting dust and could use a good home.”

The Donated Firearms program, featured on YSSA’s website www.youthshootingsa.com , encourages the donation of firearms which, in turn, will be sold on GunBroker.com – the web’s largest hunting and sport shooting auction.  Firearms will be listed without a reserve bid and will be awarded to the highest bidder.  The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance, a 501(c)(3) private foundation, will provide donors with a tax deductible receipt upon the sale of each firearm. 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:04 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, April 24, 2009

Frankfort, Kentucky- Kentucky's 2009 elk hunt is drawing international interest as the April 30 deadline to apply approaches.

Seven Canadian residents are among the record 35,390 applicants registered so far for the 1,007 quota elk hunt tags being issued this year by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Hunters from as far away as Alaska, Hawaii, Maine and Puerto Rico have paid the $10 fee to register for the elk hunt drawing.

"Although this season will be only the ninth hunt conducted since our elk restoration project started in 1997, Kentucky already has the reputation as the premier place to hunt elk in the eastern United States," said Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Jon Gassett. "We're proud that Kentucky is home to one of the most successful wildlife restoration efforts in the country over the past decade."

Kentucky's elk herd numbers approximately 10,000 free-roaming animals in the southeastern region of the state - more than all the states east of the Mississippi River combined. Kentucky also offers more elk hunting permits than anywhere else in the eastern United States.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:26 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Hunters hoping to draw out for a bull elk, whitetail deer, antelope or other controlled hunt through the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's Controlled Hunts Program can now submit applications over the Internet by logging on to www.wildlifedepartment.com.

Administered by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Controlled Hunts Program offers a wide variety of highly desirable hunts through a random drawing. Controlled hunting opportunities offered through the program include hunts on Department or other government-owned or managed lands where unrestricted hunting would pose safety concerns or where over harvest might occur.

"Sportsmen have over 140 different quality hunts to choose from including elk, antelope, deer, turkey, and quail hunts," said Melinda Sturgess-Streich, assistant director of administration for the Wildlife Department. "Thirty-two of these hunts are designed specifically for youth ages 14-16. You don't want to miss out on these hunting opportunities, so mark your calendars to apply before the deadline of May 15."

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

Thursday, April 23, 2009

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah - The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF), a non-profit wildlife conservation organization dedicated to ensuring the conservation of mule deer, black-tailed deer and their habitats, recently announced the appointment of Kenn Loch and Jim Steadman to its Board of Directors.

"Jim Steadman and Kenn Loch will be valuable additions to the MDF Board of Directors. Both these gentlemen bring experience in working with non-profit organizations and a dedication to mule deer. They have also been very successful in their respective careers," said Miles Moretti, MDF President and CEO.

Kenn Loch was born and raised in northern California where he learned to appreciate the abundant natural resources of the West. At an early age he was introduced to archery, which later developed into a passion for hunting and wildlife conservation. Loch holds a Master's degree in engineering from the University of California at Berkeley. He has spent his professional career in the energy industry where he currently works for Shell Exploration and Production Company as a manager focused on capital prioritization and business performance of onshore and offshore developments. Mr. Loch now resides in Katy, Tex., with his wife Peggy, and their two children.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:04 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

MISSOULA, Montana -Over 10,000 volunteers for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation contributed $16.2 million in donated labor last year, and are on pace to exceed that amount in 2009.

The figures were released April 20 to coincide with National Volunteer Appreciation Week, which was created by President Nixon in 1974. Since then, every U.S. President has signed a proclamation celebrating America's spirit of volunteerism for good causes.

"Sixteen-million dollars worth of donated labor would elevate some companies into the Fortune 500, but Elk Foundation volunteers aren't motivated by corporate interests. They're driven to help pass on a legacy of wildlife and wild places. It's about keeping alive a great outdoor heritage. It's about a quality of life that can't be measured on Wall Street," said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:54 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

New York, New York-The search for the country's best all-around sportsman is officially on as FIELD & STREAM, the world's leading outdoor magazine and Bass Pro Shops, America's favorite outdoors store, today unveiled the dates for the 2009 FIELD & STREAM TOTAL OUTDOORSMAN CHALLENGE, PRESENTED BY MOBIL 1. Now in its sixth year, the annual coast-to-coast competition offers sportsmen and -women more chances to qualify than ever before with a beefed-up roster of local qualifiers taking place April 25-26 at Bass Pro Shops. The Total Outdoorsman Challenge will culminate in an intensive, three-day, final championship event in Springfield, Mo., September 10-13, 2009, pitting 16 of the nation's top outdoorsmen in head-to-head competition in seven outdoor skill challenges: fly-fishing, bass fishing, rifle, shotgun, endurance, archery and ATV handling.

Widely celebrated as the country's premier competition for outdoorsmen, the 2009 Total Outdoorsman Challenge kicks off with free local qualifiers taking place April 25 and 26 at 48 Bass Pro Shops nationwide - twice as many locations as last year - allowing thousands of hopefuls across the country more opportunities than ever before to showcase their skills in baitcasting, air rifle and archery (participants must bring their own bows).

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:37 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—A 120-acre private in-holding in Wisconsin’s Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has been purchased by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and conveyed to the U.S. Forest Service.

The Snipe Lake property—valuable habitat for the region’s growing elk herd and other wildlife—is now permanently protected from development and opened for public access.

A public celebration is being planned for May 2 at the new public lands approximately 7 miles southeast of the intersection at State Road 77 and County Road A near Hayward, Wis. The agenda includes remarks by a representative of Congressman Dave Obey, who led efforts to acquire federal funding for this project.

“Forest in-holdings are desirable real estate for cabins and homes. In 2006, RMEF was approached about buying the Snipe Lake property and protecting its wildlife and natural resource values. We purchased the land and held it until the Forest Service received funding to complete the transaction,” explained Lou George, RMEF regional director in Wisconsin.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:27 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Dallas, Texas - Upland game enthusiasts from the Dallas-Forth Worth area have formed the region's newest Pheasants Forever (PF) chapter, the DFW Chapter of PF. The new chapter will work with local natural resource agencies and landowners within the 37-county panhandle portion of Texas to improve land management practices for pheasants and other upland birds.

Although the chapter will be based out of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the bulk of the state's pheasant population is found a few hours away in the panhandle region. The new chapter will utilize PF's grassroots model to raise funds in the population center that go toward habitat projects in the panhandle. Pheasants Forever and its quail division, Quail Forever (QF), are the only national conservation organizations that empower chapters with the responsibility to determine how 100 percent of their locally raised conservation funds will be spent. As a result, chapter volunteers are able to decide where their locally-raised funds are best put to use, while belonging to a larger national organization with a voice on federal and state conservation policy.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:12 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Washington, DC – Next week the Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) will represent hunters at the 24th meeting of the Animals Committee for the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) to ensure that decisions on trade for species of interest to traveling hunters, notably the African Lion, Elephant and Leopard, are based on science and the principles of sustainable use and not on the agenda of anti-hunting organizations.

“It is critical that the SCIF’s conservation efforts are represented before the greater international community participating in these meetings,” said Conservation Committee Chair Joseph Hosmer. “Efforts by SCIF to underwrite programs, such as with the African Lion in Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia and others, ensure that hunting and trade of lions continues as long as this trade is responsible and non-detrimental to the species.”

At the five-day meeting, participants will discuss the overall trends in trade of wildlife. From these discussions, participants will make recommendations to reevaluate trade quotas and trade regulations which may affect international hunters. “Certain species are constantly at the center of international trade discussion, and there are groups with protectionist agendas who will attempt to maximize trade restrictions. SCIF provides reason and scientific perspective to refute these protectionist arguments,” said Hosmer.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:55 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—Twelve counties in Montana are slated for wildlife and habitat conservation projects using $149,665 in new grants from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The 2009 RMEF grants will affect Carbon, Deer Lodge, Lake, Lewis & Clark, Lincoln, Mineral, Missoula, Park, Petroleum, Powell, Stillwater and Sweetgrass counties.

Additionally, a biological research project has statewide interest.

“Our volunteers across Montana helped drive the 2008 fundraisers that made these grants possible. This is where Elk Foundation banquets, auctions and other events transform into on-the-ground conservation work, and it’s part of the payday for our supporters who are passionate about giving something back to the outdoors,” said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 08:18 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 23, 2009

By: Trevor Simmons

I have owned an Ipod Touch for a little over a year and a half and have filled it with tons of games. This past week I was introduced to a new game called 3D Hunting Trophy Whitetail Championship 2009 and it is like hunting on the go. It is perfect for long bus rides, just laying around when season is out, and even just an afternoon pick- me- up. Most of the hunting games for the Ipod Touch and the Iphone are either expensive with amazing graphics and detail or cheap and are more of just a shooting gallery. 3D Hunting Trophy Whitetail Championship 2009 is a beautiful median for only a dollar with graphics matching some of the nicer games.

The graphics are a little distorted but still very clear and look like something off a video game. You can pick anywhere in North America to hunt from and choose from four big game species. You can hunt bear, deer, elk and caribou in the regions they are found. In addition, you can hunt them with four different types of weapons lever action rifle, bolt action, and scoped rifles, along with a bow and arrow. Calls and scents are also available to help you sneak up on game. As you move along the terrain, it has sounds that make you feel like your sitting in your favorite treestand. You can watch the game grazing out in front of you as you prepare for a perfect shot. Then it displays the stats of the animal that you have just taken.

This game allows you to have the hunting experience all year round and keeps you sharp on your skills. I mean for only a dollar you get a decent game to pass the time with. I recommend this game to everyone that enjoys hunting and wants a game to play all year long.

AVAILABLE AT THE ITUNES APPLICATION STORE

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:08 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

I spent a couple of days with this young man last week and it looks like a bit of my influence infected him.

This is Alexander Gish and I look forward to hunting with him someday!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:36 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn. -- Firearm sales continued to surge across the country for the fifth straight month, extending a trend that began after the November elections. The increase also follows recent comments by several high-profile members of the Obama administration about re-imposing permanently and expanding the ban on modern sporting rifles.

Data from the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) show background checks on the sale of firearms jumped 29.2 percent in March when compared to March 2008 and were up 27.1 percent for the first quarter of 2009 over the same quarter last year.

The increase follows a 23 percent rise in February, a 28 percent rise in January, a 24 percent rise in December and a 42 percent jump in November, when a record 1,529,635 background checks were performed.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:18 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Download your copy of African Indaba

Produced by Gerhard R Damm, this newsletter is one of the best resources for hunting and conservation news in regards to Africa and everything African.  This is must reading if you are planning on hunting the dark continent.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:14 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Attention Baja Sheep Hunters!

Attention Sheep Hunters!
Baja Biosphere Desert Sheep Permits on Auction

The Wild Sheep Foundation has been authorized to offer five permits for Baja Sur El Vizcaino Biosphere desert bighorn sheep for the 2009/2010 hunting season. Three have been sold thus far averaging more than $60,000 per permit for desert sheep conservation, habitat and community development programs. The final two permits will be offered on live auction at WSF/FNAWS Chapters Banquets and Auctions. For Auction Phone Bidder information please contact the following:
 
California FNAWS Auction Date:  May 2nd
Sacramento, CA
Contact Mike Borel at 925-937-4180 or email at mike.borel@contextnet.com
www.CAFNAWS.org  
 
Wild Sheep Foundation
Gray N. Thornton
720 Allen Avenue
Cody, WY 82414
info@wildsheepfoundation.org     www.wildsheepfoundation.org
307-527-6261 phone  307-527-7117 fax
 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:09 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Fillmore oil and gas analysis temporarily removes important habitat from development;  some species of fish and game remain vulnerable 

WASHINGTON – A decision by the Utah Bureau of Land Management to temporarily defer valuable sage grouse and trout habitat from energy development on public lands overseen by the agency’s Fillmore Field Office was lauded by Sportsmen for Responsible Energy Development; however, the sportsmen’s coalition voiced concerns over crucial big-game habitat that remains open to drilling without improved stipulations.

Released on Monday, the environmental assessment for oil and gas leasing in the Fillmore region excludes energy leasing in sage grouse habitat and historic and current Bonneville cutthroat trout habitat until a resource management plan can be completed. The Fillmore Field Office oversees 4.7 million acres of federal public lands in western Utah, including the Deep Creek Mountains, home to mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, sage grouse and Bonneville cutthroat trout. The area comprises some of the state’s most valuable fisheries and most coveted hunting units.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:37 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Sportsman's Alliance for Alaska has been gathering momentum in the hunting community for support of Bristol Bay.

One way we’re raising awareness and some funds is through our special moose hunt promotion. For a $50 donation, donors will receive an entry in a drawing for a 10-day moose hunt in Alaska in September. Entries are capped at 500 total, and limited to no more than 4 per donor. Those are outstanding odds on a drawing for a package worth nearly $12,000. We will draw the winner as soon as 500 entries are achieved or no later than June 15.

As if the moose hunt weren’t a good enough prize, the package also includes a Kimber rifle, Leupold scope, and hunting clothing system from Sitka Gear. Currently there are only 140 entries, so we’ve got a good number to fill. Thank you very much to those of you that have donated to this promotion. SAA has done a few recent radio interviews to highlight the moose hunt and there will be an ad running in a big hunting magazine coming soon. Please consider making a donation and tell anyone you know that hunts about this terrific promotion package to help Bristol Bay.

Moose Hunt Promotion

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

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—Eleven counties in Idaho are slated for wildlife and habitat conservation projects using $80,190 in new grants from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The 2009 RMEF grants will affect Blaine, Boise, Bonneville, Camas, Custer, Clearwater, Elmore, Idaho, Lemhi, Teton and Valley counties.

Additionally, a biological research project has statewide interest.

“Our volunteers across Idaho helped drive the 2008 fundraisers that made these grants possible. This is where Elk Foundation banquets, auctions and other events transform into on-the-ground conservation work, and it’s part of the payday for supporters who are passionate about giving something back to the outdoors,” said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:48 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Courtesy of the National Wild Turkey Federation

Most turkey hunts appear to end with a blast of a shotgun and the thrill of harvesting a trophy gobbler, but the reality is that the work is just beginning to legally get that bird home or to the taxidermist.

Legally possessing and transporting a bird is more complicated than grabbing the bird and walking back to the truck.

"It is important the hunter be informed about the procedures after harvest," said Gregg Powers, managing editor of Turkey Call magazine. "A majority of natural resource agencies require some type of reporting, check in or validation before legally allowing the hunter to possess their game."

Some agencies also require transportation permits for hunters wishing to export their game out of state.

The last thing a hunter needs is to violate the Lacey Act when shipping their game out of state. The Lacey Act makes it unlawful to import, export, transport, buy or sell fish, wildlife and plants taken or possessed in violation of federal, state or tribal law.

If the hunter has not properly followed tagging, check in or validation procedures, they will be in violation of the Lacey Act. This means confiscation of their trophy gobbler, civil and criminal penalties, cancellation of hunting and fishing licenses and fines. When shipping a turkey, whether it is through a commercial shipper, or even in a suitcase, here are some tips to keep out of trouble:

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:04 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Frankfort, KY - Hunters who dream of harvesting an elk in Kentucky have just a few short weeks left to buy a chance at that opportunity.

Kentucky's elk quota hunt application deadline is midnight, April 30. One thousand lucky applicants will be drawn to hunt elk this year.

Elk lottery applications are available for $10 online at fw.ky.gov, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources' website. Applications are not sold in stores or through the department's phone license sales vendor.

Applying for the elk quota hunt lottery takes just a few minutes. Applicants will need to have their Visa, MasterCard or Discover card ready. From the department's website, click on the blue "Apply for Elk Lottery" icon on the right side of the homepage. This secure license sales system walks applicants through each step of the process. Hunters must provide identification information, including their Social Security number.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:27 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Hunter's Specialties new H.S. Strut Pruner and Folding Saw help hunters quickly and easily clear shooting lanes, whether it is setting up to hunt from the ground or a tree stand.

The new Pruner has a serrated jaw blade for added grip on branches up to 3/4" in size. The blades are also Teflon coated for easy clean up and rust resistance.

The Pruner also features all metal construction with over molded rubber grips for comfort.

There is an integral thumb lock to keep the Pruner closed when not in use.

The H.S. Strut Folding Saw can quickly clear branches, brush, or even small trees.

The Saw, which is 9" long when closed and 16" long when open comes with interchangeable stainless steel blades, one for wood and an E-Z cut bone saw. The blade locks into place with the push of a button.

The Pruner and Saw are available separately or as a combo kit. The Pruner sells for for $8.49. The Saw sells for $17.99 and the Pruner/Saw Combo with carrying case sells for $21.99.

For more information, log onto the Hunter's Specialties website at www.hunterspec.com.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:21 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Pledge Support for World’s Greatest Wild Salmon Fishery
 
London, England—Six prestigious UK jewelry retailers and designers representing 260 stores today pledged their support for Bristol Bay, Alaska, by announcing that they will not buy gold from Anglo American’s proposed “Pebble” mine, a massive open-pit operation being considered in the bay’s headwaters. The Bristol Bay watershed supports the world’s most productive wild sockeye salmon fishery, which is critical to the state’s economy and to the livelihoods of many Alaska Native communities. The UK is the largest consumer of Bristol Bay canned sockeye salmon.
 
UK jewelers Goldsmiths, Beaverbrooks, Mappin & Webb, Watches of Switzerland, Fifi Bijoux and April Doubleday took this step at the invitation of local Alaskans who seek to protect wild salmon, clean water and their traditional ways of life from the damaging effects of industrial metal mines.
 
"We at Beaverbrooks support the protection of Alaska's Bristol Bay watershed from large scale mining,” said Mark Adelstone, managing director of Beaverbrooks the Jewellers. “We need to be mindful and respectful of the Bristol Bay salmon fishery and the communities that depend on it. We feel that the precious metals that we sell need to be mined responsibly and in environmentally friendly ways and if this means looking to other places to source gold, then so be it."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

    As my alarm clock went off around 5 a.m. I rolled out of bed with the opening day butterflies beginning to take flight. I walked across the hall and dragged my little sister out of bed, and headed downstairs to meet dad. After sitting on the couch for about five minutes to wake up, more I headed on down to the basement to put on my brand new turkey outfit I got for my birthday.

    After I got my camo on I helped my little sister find all of her gear. As Dad finished getting ready, I started handing out guns to everyone. Somebody had forgotten to get my sister some shells so I had to dig threw the safe to find three shells for her. Luckily, I found some and the morning got back underway. We sat around the basement for a few minutes just waiting for daylight to break. As some silky blue sky began to appear, we grabbed our guns and piled into the truck.
 
    We got to my grandmas' house around 6:05 a.m. and jumped out to listen for that first "gobble". At around 6:18 a.m. a gobbler sounded off and then another and another. The morning was off to a good start I would say. After getting, the blind set up we started calling to see if anything would answer. Nothing, absolutely nothing not even a yelp from a lone hen. Therefore, we sat in the blind for about an hour and then a group decision to move was made. As we topped a hill where we had heard a "gobble" we sat down beside some old tractor tires and start calling again, but still nothing. I had been filming some so while we just sat there I played around with my camera some.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:23 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 13, 2009

Lincoln, Neb. - April 13, 2009 - The Nebraska Chapter of the North American Grouse Partnership (NAGP) was awarded a $68,000 grant by the Nebraska Environmental Trust last week to help landowners restore and manage grassland habitat to benefit greater prairie chickens in southwest Nebraska's Sandsage Prairie.

Steve Riley, NAGP national board member, president of the Nebraska NAGP chapter, and wildlife biologist for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, is enthusiastic about the grant award. "This is certainly a shot in the arm for our efforts to manage and restore important habitat for greater prairie chickens in the Sandsage Prairie," Riley said.  "The beauty of this grant will be the matching dollars it can bring from other local, state, and federal habitat efforts."

The NET grant could result in thousands of acres of habitat improvements in the Sandsage Prairie once matched with federal Farm Bill, U.S. Fish & Wildlife, State of Nebraska, or local Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever chapter conservation program funds.  Habitat projects funded through the grant may include tree removal, prescribed burning, nesting cover enhancements, and implementation of planned grazing management. 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:22 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 13, 2009

Waterfowl hunters spent $900 million on a variety of goods and services from food, transportation, guns and decoys to hunting dogs, clothing and other incidental expenses in 2006, according to a new report issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These trip and equipment-related expenditures generated more than $2.3 billion in total economic output for 2006, which resulted in $157 million in federal and state tax revenues, supported more than 27,000 jobs, and generated more than $8.5 million in employment income.

"The financial support provided to conservation, and the economy as a whole, is significant," said Rowan Gould, acting Director of the Service. "Waterfowlers, like many other sportsmen, have a proven track record in their contributions to the U.S. economy, and that's certainly something to take comfort in during these tough economic times."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:48 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 13, 2009

The fight for Pebble Mine goes international this week with a delegation of Alaska Natives and commercial fishermen will fly to London next week to confront mining industry giant Anglo American at the company’s April 15th shareholders meeting with concerns about the massive Pebble mine project in the headwaters of Bristol Bay in southwest Alaska.

Some of the most productive salmon spawning rivers on Earth flow into Bristol Bay, which supports the world’s biggest commercial sockeye fishery . The Alaskans say the London-based company has failed to grasp the depth and breadth of the opposition to the Pebble mine, which would irreparably damage the salmon fishery and cultures that depend on it for survival.

The Pebble mine would be the largest open-pit copper and gold mine in North America, extending over 30 square miles of the Bristol Bay watershed. It would generate an estimated 9 billion tons of mine waste, much of it toxic. Called “tailings,” the crushed and chemically treated rock would be stored in “ponds” inundating two valleys and covering 12 square miles. Four huge earthen dams rivaling in height those of the tallest dams in the world would contain the waste, which would be stored on site forever in the same seismically active region that produced Mt. Redoubt.

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

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Public-lands fish and wildlife habitat a beneficiary of Senate bill, which breaks new ground in addressing revision of 1872 Mining Law

WASHINGTON - Sportsmen United for Sensible Mining today welcomed a U.S. Senate bill that would institute long-overdue reform of the General Mining Law of 1872, ensure better management of fish and wildlife resources on the nation's public lands and begin reclamation of thousands of abandoned hard-rock mines in the West.

Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Jeff Bingaman introduced the Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2009 (S. 796), noting the legislation would "make responsible changes" to the "outmoded" 1872 Mining Law. The bill is an unprecedented step toward substantive revision of the 137-year-old law. A similar effort ended last year without the Senate considering reform measures.

"This bill is a strong step forward in instituting some long-overdue, common-sense reforms of the 1872 Mining Law that will better protect and assure the health of our fish and wildlife populations and public lands," said Jim Lyon, senior vice president of the National Wildlife Federation. "The bill also establishes a reclamation program to begin cleaning up the legacy of thousands of abandoned mines that have degraded our waters and important wildlife habitat for decades."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:23 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, April 12, 2009

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:37 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 9, 2009

ONLY 138 TICKETS SOLD SO FAR.....

THE ODDS ARE GOOD GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!!!!!!!!

Would you like the chance to hunt moose in southwest Alaska in 2009? How about a new Kimber rifle topped with a Leupold scope? What if we threw in a sweet set of hunting outerwear from Sitka Gear and some base layers from Polartec?Would you believe there is a promotion going on right now that will offer you the chance to take home ALL of those items?

Combined retail value is about $12,000!Seriously, this might be one of the greatest promotions going right now. And it’s all for a tremendous cause.The Bristol Bay region in Alaska is truly a sportsperson’s paradise. Anglers and hunters from across the globe travel there to partake in the bounty of the world’s largest runs of wild salmon, trophy rainbow trout, herds of caribou, brown bears, and monster moose. There’s a threat facing this region and sportsmen and women are coming to the defense of one of the world’s top hunting and angling destinations.

One way to help the cause is to make a donation to the Sportsman's Alliance for Alaska to help educate and mobilize anglers and hunters in this important campaign. For a suggested donation of $50, you will be entered in the drawing for:

A 10-day moose hunt for 1 hunter with Alaska Wilderness Trips ;
A Kimber 84M or 8400 Montana rifle in your choice of caliber;
A Leupold VX-II 3-9x 40mm scope;
A 90% Jacket and Ascent Pant from Sitka Gear ; and
The Polartec base layer set

The companies supporting this donation should be recognized for their commitment to conservation of our hunting heritage and wild places.

Only 500 eligible donations will be accepted on this promotion, and there is a maximum of 4 entries per person for the drawing. With odds like that, a modest donation toward a great cause could have you packing your bags for Alaska in the fall of 2009 with some new gear in tow.

Log in now to get your chance.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:40 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 9, 2009

 Eye Protection is not one of my life priorities.  My eyes are great and for years I have been spotting game at long distance and have been one of the lucky ones that has never needed glasses.  In fact, I rarely used sunglasses because most of them were annoying and to be honest most of them were the cheap sunglasses you pick up at the gas station and after wearing them for a short period of time, I got headaches.

On the range, I was required to wear glasses and always bought the cheap glasses that the range offered and threw them into my gun case and forgot about them. I simply had not thought of sunglasses as a tool that I needed to spend money on.

All of that has changed in the last several months with the addition of the Ranger XLW to my arsenal of tools.

Eye Protection is absolutely a tool and is required at most all gun ranges and great skeet, trap and sporting clays ranges across the country.  Sunglasses are important but did you know that colored lenses can actually assist you in being able to acquire your target and assist you in becoming a better shooter.

Randolph Engineering Ranger XLW glasses are made for shooting giving the owner the ability to customize and choose the lens that match the conditions.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 06:22 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 9, 2009

I don't get the opportunity to do a lot of reading of fiction books.  It is not that I do not enjoy the good fictional book but with 3 kids, tons of reviews and products to go through, an intense travel schedule and a lot of hunting and conservation work to get done it just does not happen as much as I would like.  At the North American Wildlife Conference a gentleman handed me this book and asked me to read it and provide a review for this site.

It took me a couple of weeks to find some time to pick up the book and begin to read it.  I am so glad I found that time.

Picking up The Canaan Creed by L.P. Hoffman, I read it cover to cover and I literally could not put it down.  The engaging  mystery of a shooting, Wolves in Wyoming, Anna O'Neil and a community eaten up in the war for the protection of wildlife and the environment.  This story is a fictionalized account of the battle for the wolves in Wyoming and the moral of the story is one that every citizen needs to hear.  The story drags you in through its characters on a day by day account of the lives of the citizens of Pristine Valley.

This is a story that hunters, conservationists and environmentalists as well as every day citizens need to read.  This book should be required reading for environmental science programs across the country.  The moral of the story is to learn and understand all sides of the situation and do not blindly follow the path of any organization.

The story is very well developed, well written and will maintain a place on my book shelf for years to come...

GO buy your own copy from Hope Springs Media.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:14 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 6, 2009

Every once in a while you get the chance to come across a product that is simple in design and just absolutely make sense to you.  The Stedi-Stock was that item for me this last month.  The Stedi-Stock bills itself as an Optical Device Stabilizer and simple enough it works.

The Stedi-Stock looks like the butt of your gun with a handle that easily attaches itself to your Camera Equipment, Camcorder, Spotting Scope or Range Finder and it allows you to hold these items as though you were aiming a gun with a completely steady hand.  If you have ever tried to hold a small camcorder steady for a long period of time you can easily see how shaky the human hand is.  The reason is because it does not have the support or muscle memory in order to remain still and smooth on wide panning shots with a video camera. 

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:03 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 6, 2009

The Bull Run Banquet is very near and dear to my heart.  It was the first chapter that I attended over 10 years ago and then after a couple of years off, I attended again with my wife and I won through a raffle my very first elk hunt.  I had bought two tickets and I had no idea what I was getting into but I knew I had a deep love for hunting and I got that conservation was a very very important part of how we could protect the wildlife I so loved.

This night was exceptional as this committee and this chapter always runs one of the greatest banquets I attend.  They pay attention to the ladies with a fantastic balloon raffle and they pay attention to the youth with a prize for every single child in attendance.

This year I had the opportunity to work with Brunton on a fantastic donation of the 9020G compass for each and every child in attendance. 

The ideal beginner compass, the 9020G is another Brunton signature. With an optic green baseplate and tool-free declination adjustment for easy reading and more convenient navigating.  Youth are always a priority at the Bull Run Banquet and this is always going to be the case.  The kids walked out happy and with them will be a tool that will last there entire lives and should be in every single hunters backpack.  I am looking forward to teaching my three kids how to use there new compasses.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:15 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 6, 2009

Judge’s decision favors continued development of wildlife-rich area of Wyoming; TRCP maintains calls for responsible public-lands oil and gas drilling

WASHINGTON – The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership today expressed concern over a federal judge’s rejection of claims brought by the TRCP against the Department of the Interior over its handling of a process that enabled accelerated energy development on wildlife-rich public lands in south-central Wyoming. The sportsmen’s group reaffirmed the need for responsible public-lands oil and gas development and is reviewing the district court decision to determine appropriate next steps.

The TRCP has consistently emphasized the need for a revised federal approach to public-lands management, using as evidence examples such as the Atlantic Rim, a previously undeveloped region prized by sportsmen for its abundant game populations and hunting opportunities. The TRCP suit, filed in August 2007 in U.S. District Court, cited violations of federal law following Bureau of Land Management approval of thousands of gas wells and related infrastructure in the area.

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

Monday, April 6, 2009

Chapter will promote "Bobwhite Buffers" in northeast Kansas

Residents of Marshall County have formed Kansas' ninth Quail Forever (QF) chapter in an effort to protect and enhance bobwhite quail habitat. The Marshall County Chapter of QF is also aiming to involve local youth in outdoor activities.

"The Marshall County quail population is significantly down from where it once was," explained Jordan Martincich, QF Regional Representative in eastern Kansas, "This long term shift can be attributed mainly to a sharp decline in the quality and quantity of quail habitat – and that is exactly what the Marshall County chapter wants to reverse."

The chapter will work with landowners to promote and help enroll acres in federal Conservation Practice 33 (CP-33), most commonly referred to as "Bobwhite Buffers," which establish the edge habitat along fields, streams and woods that bobwhites love. The program has been well-received in Kansas, with over 32,000 acres already making a difference for bobwhites and other upland birds. "I've personally seen what setting aside 'Bobwhite Buffers' can do," stated Donald Argo, the chapter's president and a Marysville resident, "That's why I know with the support of both Quail Forever and Marshall County residents, we can make a difference that everyone will see."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:18 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, April 6, 2009

Diverse coalition of outdoors-oriented groups presses Agriculture secretary to implement management guidelines designed to sustain roadless area values

WASHINGTON - A consortium of prominent outdoor-oriented groups has united in support of responsible management of inventoried roadless areas with a goal of sustaining the high-quality sporting and recreational opportunities provided by America's backcountry. The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Outdoor Industry Association and Outdoor Alliance, together representing millions of public-lands users, have sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urging that a directive be issued requiring high-level review of proposed development of roadless areas until permanent rules for their management can be resolved.

The letter states, "Our organizations represent diverse groups of public-lands users, including hikers, mountain bikers, climbers, paddlers, backcountry skiers, hunters and anglers. We are unified by a common conservation and stewardship ethic and by the value we place on the current unroaded condition of our national forest roadless areas. We request that you lead the Department of Agriculture in taking immediate steps to ensure that America's valuable backcountry national forests are conserved into the long-term future."

"Responsible roadless area management is a catalyst that has united the interests of our diverse groups," said Mark Singleton, chairman of the Outdoor Alliance and executive director of American Whitewater. "The human-powered recreation community and the sportsmen's community enjoy different activities on America's public lands, yet collectively we understand the significance of these lands in securing our outdoor traditions. Specifically, we agree that our national forest roadless areas are a valuable resource that must be conserved."

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

Friday, April 3, 2009

All hunters and sportsmen should contact Fox Broadcasting, the company that airs American Idol, immediately.

They should be told that country music star Carrie Underwood’s rendition of “Home Sweet Home” isn’t so sweet for the millions of sportsmen who will be attacked by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) after they make money off the tune.

According to Carrie Underwood’s official website, the song is going to be used each week on the hit television show when a contestant is voted off.
Check it out
http://www.carrieunderwoodofficial.com/

Unfortunately, Underwood has made clear that a portion of the proceeds from subsequent sales of that song will go to benefit the largest anti-hunting organization in the nation, HSUS. This will give HSUS even more money to direct towards bowhunters, hunters, anglers, and trappers nationwide.

“Carrie Underwood has decided to use her talents to benefit an organization dedicated to destroying the rights of thousands of her fans,” said U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA) senior vice president, Rick Story. “HSUS does not operate or oversee animal shelters; it is a radical organization that seeks to end hunting and other responsible uses of animals in America.”

Story said that sportsmen must send American Idol a strong message that its indirect support of HSUS, is not appreciated.

Sportsmen can make a difference. Companies such as Iams, General Mills, Accor Hotels, Pet Safe, Sears, Meijer Inc, and Ace Hardware ended relationships with HSUS after thousands of sportsmen levied strong protest.

Take Action! Sportsmen are urged to contact key personnel at American Idol’s parent company, Fox Broadcasting and demand that Underwood’s song not be given a stage to raise money for HSUS.

Mr. Peter Liguori
Fox Broadcasting Company
Chairman of Entertainment
10201 West Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90064-2606

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:51 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, April 2, 2009

GAITHERSBURG, MD – The Izaak Walton League of America, a leader in community-based conservation, celebrates the 40th Anniversary of its landmark Save Our Streams (SOS) Program this year. With the creation of SOS, the League pioneered citizen-based stream monitoring and gave people everywhere a simple, reliable tool to assess and protect the streams where they live.  

“As a national conservation organization formed by anglers and named after one of the most famous fishermen in history, the League has always placed a special emphasis on protecting water quality,” said Leah Miller, the League’s director of Clean Water Programs. “Over the past 40 years, SOS has helped citizens to analyze water quality, identify problems, and develop solutions that protect waters essential for drinking and fish and wildlife.”

Save Our Streams was born in 1969 when League members in Maryland modeled a stream adoption program after the state’s adopt-a-highway program. In the beginning, League members and others checked streams regularly for siltation and barriers to fish passage.  They reported water pollution problems to the appropriate local and state authorities, removed trash and debris, and educated the public about how to prevent water pollution. Later, Save Our Streams became one of the first programs to successfully train volunteers to assess water quality using a simple, accurate method based on the presence and diversity of stream insects and crustaceans. By examining the number and variety of aquatic bugs, volunteers can determine if a waterway is in trouble. The SOS stream monitoring method was also one of the first to be approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a method to collect useful and scientifically valid information about water quality. Thousands of volunteers across the country use the SOS method and other League resources to determine water quality and protect streams in trouble. Dozens of states adopted volunteer-monitoring programs based on Save Our Streams.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:46 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

MISSOULA, Montana - The U.S. Forest Service is honoring one of America's leading authorities on elk and habitat conservation Tom Toman of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

As the Elk Foundation's staff biologist (he laughingly calls himself an "elkologist"), Toman coordinates habitat enhancement, management and research projects. He trains biologists across the U.S. and Canada and has special expertise in trapping, handling and transporting elk for relocation and restoration efforts.

The Missoula, Mont., resident joined the RMEF staff in 1995 following 24 years with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

"Tom knows elk biology and is considered an expert by his Forest Service peers. He works tirelessly for elk country. His support and influence helps improve elk habitat nationwide," said Tom Tidwell, regional forester for the Forest Service. "As the Elk Foundation begins its 25th Anniversary celebration in 2009, we wanted to recognize Tom's commitment and contributions."

Anne Zimmermann, the Forest Service national director of wildlife from Washington D.C., said, "Tom is a wonderful representative for elk and for RMEF. He has worked with so many of our field staff over the years with the end-result being better habitat for elk and better relationships with partners."

Tidwell and Zimmermann honored Toman during a March reception at the Elk Foundation's national convention in Fort Worth, Texas.

RMEF Vice President of Lands and Conservation Jack Blackwell said, "We couldn't be prouder of this well-deserved special recognition for Tom. He is truly an asset to the Elk Foundation and we are very fortunate to have him."

A Wyoming native, Toman earned a bachelor's degree in wildlife management and conservation and a master's in public administration from the University of Wyoming. He spent 18 years in Jackson, Wyo., overseeing regional wildlife programs for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.7 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 07:47 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Nearly 100 participants took in a picture perfect January day for the First Annual Jim Shockey/SCI Desert Golf Shootout at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona. More than $30,000 net was raised at the SCI Arizona Chapter event for SCI Foundation education programs, including an exhibit at the International Wildlife Museum, Tucson, and to Jim Shockey's fund that helps take military veterans on hunting trips.

The TN Marketing team of Cal Franklin, Jay McNaughton, Tom Durand and Andrew Brammer finished at 9-under-62 to take first place. Shockey's team finished 6 strokes off the lead, but Jim has vowed to stack his team with professionals next year.

Special thanks also go out to Jim and Louise Shockey, Gregg Gutschow, Loews' Brian Johnson, Martin Charlton (both are SCI members), Natalie Marchioni and all of the corporate sponsors including: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, SCI, Leupold, TN Marketing, StealthCam/GSM, Outdoor Channel, SHE Safari and NRA. Donating food for the event was Sysco, and Redwood Creek Wines of California donated the wine for the Wine and Cheese with Louise Shockey social.

Those donating to the silent auction included: Thompson/Center Arms, Alpine Archery, Primos/Double Bull Blinds, Caldwell Shooting Supplies, Black's Creek Guide Gear, Sportsman's Warehouse, ScentBlocker, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, and National Wild Turkey Federation.

The dates for the early February 2010 event will be released soon. If you are interested in golfing, donating or sponsoring, please send an email to mlabarbera@safariclub.org with the Subject: "Send Shockey golf details when available."

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