Vol74 no3 2013

May 2013 VOL. 74, NO. 3

The 2013 Missouri Governor’s Youth Spring Wild Turkey Hunt was a Huge Success!

See more inside.

Inside This Issue:

MISSOURI

Wildlife

Featured articles

May 2013 Vol. 74, No. 3

7th Annual Pull for Conservation Weekend August 9-10 ...................................... 8 Veterans Fishing for Rainbows . . ......................................................................... 8 CFM Members Harvest Some “Dead Meat” ....................................................... 9 Esteemed CFM Conservation Awards Presented Citizen Conservationists Recognized at Annual Convention ......................... 10 CFM Debates Issues: Annual Convention Produces Conservation Resolutions . . ................................................................. 14 5th Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt .. ................................................................. 20 2013 Spring Fling ................................................................................................... 28 2013 Convention at a Glance .................................................................................. 30 CFM Strategic Planning Committee Report .............................................................. 32

news, updates and columns View From The Stone House............................................................................2

Officers President Richard Ash 1st Vice President Al Vogt 2nd Vice President Ron Coleman Mossie Schallon Secretary Randy Washburn Treasurer

Staff Dave Murphy Travis Scott

Executive Director/ Editor Director of Development

Debra Lee

Teaming With Wildlife Coordinator Micaela Haymaker Office Manager Laurie Coleman Membership Associate/ Managing Editor Joe Pendergrass Design & Production Mission Statement: Missourians for Conservation of Natural Resources and Protection of Our Outdoor Heritage.

President’s Message.........................................................................................4 Calendar............................................................................................................17 Teaming With Wildlife

AFWA Fly in Success!....................................................................................19

Agency News

Department of Natural Resources Celebrating 75 years of Crowder State Park......................................................6

Missouri Department of Conservation MDC and Federal Agents Snag Major Paddlefish Poaching Operation............24

Member Information

Honorariums & Memorials..............................................................................3 New Members.................................................................................................3 Business Alliance Members...............................................................................7 Conservationists For Life................................................................................22 Affiliates of the Federation.............................................................................23

Photographer’s note about front cover: In 1972 I was beginning to shoot the MDC film, “Design for Conservation”, promoting the 1/8th percent sales tax.

I was searching for locations to film spectacular species to highlight in the film. Herb Davis was the Refuge Manager at Peck Ranch at the time.

I asked him if there were any Showy Lady’s Slipper plants on the Refuge and he said “Just one !!”

He guided me there, and I filmed the last plant that lived on the Refuge.

According to MDC personnel, there are no Showy Lady’s Slipper plants living on the Peck Ranch Conservation Area now.

However, money from “Design” has made acquisition of other nearby tracts of land available and a few remnant populations of the beautiful flowers still exist in the vicinity.

Missouri Wildlife is the official publication of the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation.

ISSN 1082-8591

728 W. Main Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 Phone • 573-634-2322 Fax • 573-634-8205 Email • dmurphy@confedmo.org Online • http://www.confedmo.org MISSOURI WILDLIFE (USPS 012868) is published bi­ monthly in January, March, May, July, Sept­ ember and November for subscribers and members of the Con­ser­vation Federation of Missouri, 728 W. Main, Jef­ferson City, MO 65101-1559.

Of each member’s dues ($25 minimum) $10.00 shall be for a year’s subscription to Missouri Wildlife. Periodical postage paid at Jefferson City, MO. and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MISSOURI WILDLIFE, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 COVER: “Quest for beauty” - Showy Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium reginae) © Glenn D. Chambers 2013. www:glenndchambers.com

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view from the stone house

O

nce upon a time there were only a few folks who really cared.

Missouri was becoming a desert. With each successive violent wind storm, tons of our topsoil were carried away forever. Our forests were junk. They had been ruthlessly cut over, exploited, burned and grazed into oblivion. Our prairies were wiped out. Less than 1% remained. Some of the richest upland soils in the world were plowed and planted to crops that seemed like a good idea at the time, but were too often ill suited to our climate or growing season. Our major streams were nearly all either dammed or channelized for flood protection. The real cause of widespread flooding, of course, was increased run off from stripping the soil and forest floor bare, from compaction as a consequence of over grazing, from increasing pavement and urban sprawl.

The million gallons or so of rain that falls on every Missouri acre each year had little chance of soaking in. Ponds and deep wells were few and dear, and consistently beyond the means of small scale farmers going bust.

All big game animals were going or gone. All furbearers were rare. Small game animals were relentlessly pursued and systematically killed for the market. Fish were trapped, seined and captured without caution or limits. Any wild resource of value was sold in desperate

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Once Upon A Time

attempts to meet long term needs with short term supplies.

It was a dark and dreary episode in our Missouri history. We very nearly allowed our natural resources to run completely out. Our people were becoming increasingly aware that there were finite limits to all natural resources, even to things once so unimaginably abundant as buffalo and passenger pigeons.

Few there were who imagined that things could ever get better, or even hold their own in the Missouri outdoors. These dire circumstances were the reality of the early 1900’s in our state, let us never forget.

Nowadays many of us are convinced that the future is scary for wild things and wild places. Realists rightly point out slashed agency budgets and staffs for stewardship of our natural resources—both at the federal and state levels.

Fearful, caring folks recognize the constant increase in human population and all the consequent demands on nature. Even worse, many of us have developed a personal indifference or even in some cases, an apparent contempt for nature. The notion that nature is some sort of cost, or at the very least an inconvenience, to responsible citizenship and personal rights has its believers.

As I have grown “longer in the tooth” my frustration with those who would control our planet to their own ends, or at least those who would appreciate no interference

from nature in their machinations of personal enterprise, has surpassed my capacity for tolerance. Guess I probably will never master the ability to “turn the other cheek.”

On the other hand, I take great encouragement in the apparent fact that I am not alone. Any reputable survey of opinion of the citizens of Missouri, from Gallup to the latest vote for the State Parks and Soils Sales Tax shows that somewhere between 70 and 80% of Missouri citizens like how natural resource conservation works here in Missouri. Of course the other side of that is that at least 20% either do not like how natural resource conservation

in Missouri works or do not understand it. That is a lot of folks…say roughly 1.2 million of our 6 million residents!

So what are we to do? We have two choices: give up or get moving! For 77 years and counting, we have chosen the latter and never, ever, ever given up. Each and every day here at CFM, we are witness to countless expressions of organizations, agencies, families and individuals who make the time to make a difference. I take enormous pride in our character not as a “rich old bunch of white men” as some critics have tried to pigeon-hole us…but as private citizens who always commit, never give up and

always find a way to get the necessary jobs done. Always. Yes, in fact, we have members red, yellow, black, white, urban, sub-urban, rural, professional, amateur, rich and poor…more of some demographics than others… but we recognize diversity as our great strength, and respect the performances of our people above all their other characteristics. I would argue we have succeeded with Theodore Roosevelt’s challenge to “do what you can, where you are, with what you have” better than any other outfit, anywhere at any time. Keep it up! Do your part. Encourage and empower others, as well.

Despite the dire circumstances of the early 1930’s our collective efforts have made an incredible difference in our state, our nation and our world.

The abundance, health and diversity of our fish, forests and wildlife…on the same land at the same time that our human population in Missouri has doubled…was unimaginable at the start and amazing to us today. Together we have provided this incredible gift for those who will follow us.

The challenges before us may well be even greater than those versus which we have succeeded in the past…but will never be insurmountable. I ask you to accept that and to never give up until the solutions are found and implemented. Count on CFM as The Voice for Missouri Outdoors with confidence.

In parting, as the great E. Sydney Stephens said at the end of what Aldo Leopold said was the greatest speech about conservation he ever heard: “And so, my friends, as we stand “amid the encircling gloom” and when we examine our compasses and our watches, we find that the hour is late, “the night is dark and we are far from home.” The least we can do is to pray for a “kindly light” to lead us. The case is not hopeless; it can be cured. That has been sufficiently proved. What we need is light—and LEADERSHIP!!”

— Dave Murphy Executive Director, CFM

WELCOME C F M N E W mem b e r s

Zachary Aldrich, Neosho David Bentele, Saint Louis Steve Boren, Kansas City Eric Bowen, Ballwin Thomas Dailey, Columbia Gene Gardner, Jefferson City Susan Higgins, Jefferson City John Jansen, Kelso Ian Johnson, River Falls, WI Ann Koenig, Columbia Janelle Lemen, Springfield Joseph Lemen, Marshfield James Mann, Saint Louis Leah McSherry, Poynette, WI

Missouri Deer Hunter Magazine, Dittmer Holly Neill, Springfield Joe Pendergrass, Gerald Lee Redmond, Lohman Brian Schweiss, Jefferson City Matt Seek, Columbia Joan Sessel, Saint Louis Mark Sharp, Jefferson City Don & Pam Snyder, Pleasant Hill Burt Stewart, Imperial Kelly Straka, Columbia James Summers, Overland Park, KS Mike Torres, Kearney Vance Vanderwerken, Savannah Brian Wallner, Eureka Gary Webb, Ludlow Leslie Werner, Sturgeon Shirley Wolverson, Saint Louis

&

CFM would like to thank the 470 members that renewed since our last publication.

Honorariums Memorials In memory of Mary Katherine McGeehan Steve & Debbie Butler ~ Strafford In memory of Leland Harris Becky Plattner ~ Grand Pass

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president’s message

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A Chapter Change for CFM’s History

n my last article in Missouri Wildlife, I urged attendance at CFM’s Annual Conference which was scheduled for February 22-24, 2013. I do hope you got the chance to do so. FYI, fiscal records were broken again as those attending proved more generous than they were any prior year. Gross revenues for 2013’s Convention & Auction grew 6% to about $85,500. Most notable though is the combined convention & auction net – projected at $44,880. Indeed, special applause go out to all of you who were there.

Yes, the 2013 Convention was truly a major success – especially considering that registered attendance was down about 23% as significant snowfall happened just as the conference was slated to open.

Yet, the inclement weather didn’t dampen the Friday evening applauses for this year’s Award winners along with Dr. Peter Raven’s talk with its emphasis on sustainability. Saturday’s “state of the agency” reports from DNR’s Director Sara Parker-Pauley and MDC’s Director Bob Ziehmer were notable too. But for me, again I must point to the in-depth discussions within Resource Committee meetings along with the resolution process that continuously adds depth to all that CFM is as an organization. There is no doubt in my mind, each of us CFM members owes the Resource Committee Chairs and attendees along with the Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC) students a round

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of applause for the quality discussion on conservation topics of matter. To be sure, some discourse does get contentious and not everyone absolutely concurs with the results – but in the end, there is sound basis for considerations brought forth by CFM’s resolutions.

And further, there is no surety that recommendations fostered by a CFM resolution would be adopted; however at minimum, the pertinent agencies do get to know the perspective of a good segment of Missouri’s citizen conservationists.

This success was achieved by a team effort led by the Convention Committee headed by Co-Chairs Mike & Mossie Schallon and CFM staff. However, in addition to those already mentioned, several others deserve a pat on the back. Don’t forget that CFM’s Awards Committee, OAKs Committee and more than twenty volunteers all played key roles in conference work. Join me in extending a hearty “Thanks”!

Now let me shift things a bit and give focus to one more person who most certainly deserves some credit for CFM’s recent history of Convention success. Compare, if you will, 2013’s numbers with those for the annual conference just prior to the arrival of Mr. Dave Murphy, CFM’s Executive Director. 2003’s CFM Convention & Auction grossed $20,800 with a net of -$200. That “break-even” number sounds okay until one surmises that a negative net means the convention was subsidized by the auction. In

this case, $6,400 of auction proceeds paid for nearly 1/3rd of the convention cost. Now do recognize that this practice was seemingly acceptable back then. In the five (5) years prior to having Mr. Murphy at CFM’s helm, the Convention & Auction net averaged -$722 as Auction dollars subsidized an average of 40% of the convention expense. Now compare that to the history with Dave’s leadership. During his tenure convention nets without auction monies averaged ‘break-even’ at $820. And, over the same time frame, the combined Convention & Auction nets averaged more than $16,000 or 48% more than the convention expense. This is truly a significant philosophical change fiscally without detriment to the two other key purposes for CFM’s Annual Convention: 3 Recognition of Conservation Achievement; and, 3 Resolutions relative to Policy Considerations per Missouri Outdoors.

I bring this to your attention because this bit of history illustrates some of the significant change CFM has experienced in the past ten (10) years while Mr. David Murphy has served as our Executive Director. But things are about to change. If you haven’t heard by now, Dave has formally announced his retirement effective May 31st.

When Dave arrived June 1st 2003 CFM had just gone through a difficult fiscal

period. During the later half of the 90s, CFM had a good fund balance and enjoyed investment earnings averaging $230,000 per year; but, things became dismal. The fund balance declined from a 1999 figure of $1.6 million to about $700,000 at the close of 2002. It’s complicated how financial conditions deteriorated back then; and, we don’t have space to go into the reasons, so instead let us focus on the ensuing recovery. It too is a complicated story and many of us may have chosen different paths to achieve the end-results; but, the facts are facts. By managing expenses and using a variety of income sources, CFM at the close of 2012 had a record Fund Balance of more than $1,924,000.

Of that sum, about $700,000 of that amount isn’t restricted for use by one of CFM’s programs. In view of the ups and downs of the economic world during this past decade, it hasn’t been an easy achievement but CFM’s fiscal situation is way better now.

Too, don’t just consider these fiscal facts when pondering Dave’s tenure with CFM. Again, I must plead that there isn’t enough space to tell the whole story; but, let me leave you with a sampling of highlights to ponder.

The Missouri Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus, with 12 members, began the spring before Dave’s arrival. In the autumn of 2004, the first national meeting of State Sportsmen’s Caucuses occurred in Texas. Missouri’s State Representative Jason Brown

attended signing the charter of the national assembly and he was later elected to their executive council. The next year, Jason and then Senator Frank Barnitz (D) recruited almost 100 Mo SC members!

And, the program seems to keep growing and setting a new record membership.

This year, Senators Kehoe (R) and McKenna (D) once again worked their magic and recruited all 34 members of the Senate. And, overall Caucus Chair, Eric Burlison (R) and co-chair Rep. Linda Black (D), even with 60 new legislators, orchestrated an impressive recruitment of 120 of 163 members of the House.

Yes, another record with 154 or 78% of the total General Assembly (House & Senate combined) membership (197) – truly an impressive percentage.

In 2005 CFM joined MDC, NWTF, Bass Pro, Whitetails Unlimited and several other partners to bring the National Archery in Schools Program.

Having invested in excess of $200,000 since the program’s inception, there are now more than 59,000 students participating in 268 schools around the state. The program has been so successful that in June of this year, Missouri will host the NASP World Tournament in St. Louis.

Share-The-Harvest (STH) has grown to become CFM’s signature program. With the 2012-2013 season, the program passed 3 million pounds of venison produced

during its history. In 2003, 3,675 deer were processed at a cost to CFM of $25/deer; whereas in 2012 there were almost 7,000 deer processed at $60/deer. The past 3 years CFM has averaged spending some $380,000 with funding coming from a MDC grant, tax credit administration and donations from food pantries and non-governmental organizations.

reduced attendees by about 27% percent from the high mark of 75 members. Indeed this program has gained national recognition by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and become the model for meaningful youth involvement within NWF’s affiliate organizations.

And, since 2010 CFM has assisted Missouri’s State Parks via their State Parks Youth

The Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC) concept was introduced in 2002 at a Winter meeting of CFM’s Education Committee. Twelve students, half college level and half high school, were invited to attend the CFM Annual Conference in Springfield later that Spring. Via resolution at CFM’s 2003 Annual Conference they proposed the initiation of a Conservation Leadership Corps program within CFM. From its initial meeting of 12 founding students, the program has grown to where the past two years CLC participation was 110 students. This year weather

Corp program. Working with Missouri’s Department of Economic Development, CFM has sold some $1.1 million in tax credits which has funded the employment of more than 1,000 youth within our State Parks & Historic Sites.

This program too has been

awarded national recognition by the National Association of State Parks.

Too, don’t forget CFM’s Governor’s Youth Hunts, 2009’s Missouri Outdoor Summit and its off-shoot Outdoor Action Committee (OAKs), 2011’s Clean Water Summit, CFM’s 80+ Affiliate Organizations, our 179 Life members, the Teaming w/ Wildlife program and its 300+ member organizations. I could go on but I’ve run out of space. Consider it all though, and is there any wonder why David Murphy was honored

by Bass Pro as its 2012 Conservationist of the Year.

Bear witness folks, CFM is about to reach the end of a truly significant period of its history. CFM will miss Mr. Murphy and has much to thank for his efforts at our organization’s helm. And, yes do take the time to personally express your thoughts with Dave in these waning days of his administration.

Experience Missouri’s Outdoors, Share It & Support It! Richard L. Ash, Jr. President, CFM

reduce • reuse • recycle MIS S OURI

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department of natural resources

Celebrating 75 years of Crowder State Park

N

estled in the rolling, glaciated hills of northcentral Missouri, Crowder State Park is special for several reasons.

The park memorializes a notable Missourian, Maj. Gen. Enoch Herbert Crowder, and offers a retreat of rugged slopes and stately forests in a region otherwise consisting of generally level farmland.

Crowder State Park was created in 1938 when the state legislature appropriated $10,000 to purchase a tract of 640 acres located three miles west of Trenton, the county seat of Grundy County. Just to the southwest of the park is the village of Edinburg. It was here that Enoch Crowder was born on April 11, 1859. After attending Grand River College in Edinburg, Crowder went on to West Point, the U. S. Military Academy in New York. Early in his career he participated in efforts to subdue Geronimo and his Apache band. Later he served as military governor of the Philippines, and crowned his career in public service by serving as the first ambassador to Cuba. He is best remembered as the “father of the selective service.”

He authored the Selective Service Act of 1917 and set up the system of local draft boards that succeeded in providing three million young men to help boost the Allies to victory in World War I. He was noted for his knowledge, his devotion 6

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Campfire sing-alongs and outdoor adventures make camp a lasting memory for youth of all ages at Crowder State Park’s Camp Grand River. Photo credit: DNR.

to duty, and his principled dedication to fairness as he saw it.

The state park named in his honor is located just a few miles from the Crowder homestead. The park’s natural environment is unusual for northern Missouri. It is covered with a mantle of rich glacial soils that nurture thick forests of sugar maple, and stately white and red oaks. The Thompson River, named for Dr. William Preston Thompson, the ruins of whose ca. 1833 brick home still stand within park boundaries, winds its way through the park. Bordering it are steep-walled valleys and ravines where basswoods and bur oaks tower over an understory of dogwood, serviceberry and bladdernut. The rich bottomlands along this meandering river are accented by stands of cottonwood, river birch, silver maple and sycamore

trees that shade a valley floor where the rare ostrich fern grows in company with carpets of swamp buttercups, touch-me-nots, sweet williams and Dutchman’s breeches. On well-shaded sandstone ledges, carved by the Thompson River, lady slipper orchids and maidenhair ferns cling to a delicate existence.

Today, the park offers many opportunities for recreational and leisure activities throughout its 1,912 acres. Visitors can enjoy more than 17 miles of hiking, bicycling and equestrian trails in a forested, rugged terrain. The park also offers fishing, boating and swimming opportunities in 18acre Crowder Lake. The lake is regularly stocked with fish to tempt the anglers at heart. Picnic sites are scattered throughout the park.

For larger family gatherings, an enclosed shelter with

electricity is available, as is an open shelter; both can be reserved by contacting the park superintendent. A paved tennis court is another of the recreational offerings.

The family-oriented campground includes modern restrooms and shady picnic sites are scattered throughout the park. There are both basic and electric campsites in the park. The camping area features modern restrooms, hot showers, a dumping station, Laundromat and playground equipment.

Campfire sing-alongs, new friends and outdoor adventure make camp a lasting memory for youth of all ages. An organized group camp, Camp Grand River, is available to nonprofit organizations. The camp can host a minimum of 55 to a maximum capacity of 120 campers and offers sleeping cabins, a dining lodge with kitchen, a recreation hall and outdoor recreational facilities, including a play court. The group camp is available for daily use from April 15 through Oct. 15.

Throughout the summer months, campers may attend several programs and events hosted by the park’s interpretative staff. On May 18, several of Missouri State Parks will host events to celebrate National Kids to Parks Day. Activities planned at Crowder State Park include a Family Fun Run/Walk - 5K-10K options beginning at 8 a.m.; community picnic from 11 a.m. to

1 p.m. Visitors and campers are invited to bring their own picnic lunch to enjoy at the park. There will be an assortment of games to play and activities to enjoy before or after they eat. At 1 p.m., there will be a guided nature hike to the Thompson River. National Kids to Parks Day supports the First Lady’s Let’s Move Outside!

Initiative, which encourages young people to spend more time outdoors.

Crowder State Park will also host Summer Fun Day on June 8 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Be sure to join park staff for a fun-filled afternoon. This event is being held in conjunction with the Department of Conservation’s free fishing weekend. Staff will be available to assist you

with provided fishing poles or you may also bring your own fishing poles. There will be a child’s first fish of the day and largest fish of the day contest. Staff will also be on hand for nature crafts, games and nature hikes to the Thompson River.

Missouri contains some of the most outstanding state parks and historic sites that provide the public with more than 200,000 acres to discover, explore, learn and enjoy. Be sure to include Crowder State Park on your list of visits for 2013 and help us celebrate its 75th anniversary!

Sara Parker Pauley Director, DNR

Enjoy a peaceful evening sitting by the water at Crowder State Park’s 18-acre lake. Photo credit: DNR.

Thank You!

Business Alliance Members Our sincere thanks to all of our Business Alliance members.

Your support of CFM is making a difference for Missouri outdoors!

Platinum Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Bass Pro Shops Drury Hotels Shelter Insurance Companies Platinum MidwayUSA Silver Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc. James T. Blair IV Pyramid Home Health Services Basic Bee Rock Outdoor Adventures, LLC Cap America Citizens Telephone Company Columbia Daily Tribune Consolidated Electric Cooperative Cooper’s Oak Winery and A & K Cooperage, LLC Dickerson Park Zoo DJ Case & Associates Farm Management Service (Dan & Cheri Erdel) Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association

Forrest Keeling Nursery Full Care of Indianapolis, Inc. General Printing Service Greenbrier Wetland Services Heartland Restoration, Inc. Hornbuckle Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, Inc. Joe Machens Ford Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative Macon Realty Company McRoberts Farm, Inc. Meramec Bison Farm, LLC Mid America Mortgage Services, Inc. Middle River Bluffs Midwest Mailing Services Osage Canoes, LLC Quality Forest Management, LLC REMAX Boone Realty R. L.’s Swimming Pools, LLC Shafer, Kline & Warren, LLC Show Me Printing Sierra Bullets, LLC Socket Telecom, LLC Sport & Spine Rehabilitation Tabor Plastics Company The Bank of Missouri Thomas Industrial Coatings, Inc. Trumans Bar & Grill, Inc.

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T

7th Annual Pull For Conservation Weekend August 9-10

he date for CFM’s 7th Annual Pull For Conservation Sporting Clays Classic has been set for August 10, 2013.

Although spring is dragging its heels in coming this year, the CFM shoot committee is already planning to ensure this year’s late summer event continues to grow.

Columbia Bass Pro Shops is once again providing the prizes and if you have never attended this annual fun shoot make plans to join us this year for a great time at River Hills Sporting Clays.

In addition, David Smith and his Columbia Bass Pro team will once again host our Pre-shoot banquet inside the Columbia store. Mark your calendars now and don’t miss out on a fun filled evening on Friday, August 9 and stick around and have a blast at the shoot on Saturday, August 10. Register early for the shoot or purchase your banquet tickets by contacting the CFM office (800) 575-2322 or visit our website at www.confedmo.org.

Have a safe and successful spring and we’ll see you in August!

Veterans Fishing for Rainbows Over 225 veterans attended the 2013 “Veterans Fishing for Rainbows” free fishing event at the Neosho National Fish Hatchery on March 9th. This 2nd annual event was exclusive to veterans who caught over 900 trout and enjoyed a grilled lunch and live entertainment from a military band. Special thanks to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation and to the numerous volunteers that make this a great day for the women and men who have served our country in the military.

Right: Aaron Jeffries (MDC Assistant to the Director) and John Deghuer, Mount Vernon.

Far Right: Travis Scott (CFM Director of Development) and Carl Green, Neosho.

Would you like to be added to our electronic newsletter list?

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Please email your name and email address to lcoleman@confedmo.org or call us toll free at 800-575-2322

CFM Members Harvest Some “Dead Meat” This adventure started at the Conservation Federation of Missouri’s annual convention held during the last weekend of February 2013 in Jefferson City. During the Saturday night annual auction to benefit CFM I purchased a snow goose hunt that was donated by CFM member Arnold Compton. Included with the hunt were 500 rounds of 3” magnum steel shotgun shells so I was all set to do my part in trying to reduce the overpopulation of snow geese that are destroying the fragile arctic tundra where the geese, as well as lots of other birds, do their nesting each spring. The Spring Conservation Order Light Goose Season started back in 2000 with a purpose of reducing the overpopulation of these geese in an attempt to save the precious nesting grounds from permanent damage caused by the geese. Hunting methods for this season have been liberalized to allow electronic calls, no limit to the number of shells allowed in your shotgun, and no limit to the number of light geese (Snows, Blues, & Ross’) that you can harvest. Although the season has slowed or stopped the population growth, the geese still number more than a 1 million plus birds. The hope was and still is to reduce the population to half of that number. I gave Arnold a call and we set a date of March 14 for the hunt. I was really excited to go on this hunt with my favorite hunting partner. Casey is my son and we have been hunting together since he was a little

boy. We have lots of great memories from previous hunting trips but our favorite is always the next one we go on. About one week before our hunt I got a call from CFM’s Director of Development Travis Scott. Travis asked if I would be willing

store at 6:00am on a beautiful Thursday morning. The crew from Dead Meat pulled up with a minivan and an SUV packed to hilt with gear for the production. Scott Leysath the host of the Sportsman Channel’s Dead Meat and his camera men Nolan and

CFM Life and Board Member, Jeff Blystone and Arnold Compton.

to let a TV show film our hunt. After asking a couple of questions, I thought it sounded like a fun time and a chance to add another first to my hunting experiences.

You see I have never hunted Snow Geese or been part of a TV production. On top of that instead of hunting in a layout blind in a muddy cornfield with Arnold we were upgraded to a full time outfitter with a nice pit blind on an enormous decoy spread over water and next to a corn field. In Tight Outfitters owned by Doug Cox in Norborne, Missouri graciously agreed to be our hosts. We all met at the Norborne Casey’s

Christian along with the film editor Lauren all piled out to greet us. Shortly after that Arnold and Doug arrived. We all piled into our vehicles and made a short drive to In Tight Outfitters blind location to begin the task of hauling all of our gear through the muddy cornfield to the blind.

This was no small task in itself. ATV’s were utilized to haul what seemed like tons of stuff to the pit blind. Two large video cameras, tripods, microphones, mini Go Pro Cameras, guns, ammo, food, drinks, eight people and one black Labrador retriever named Star all made it to the blind and got set up just

before daylight. It seemed like chaos at the time but somehow after a short safety talk on gun handling and shooting zones we were ready. At daybreak the first flock of geese were heard and spotted flying overhead. Doug fired up the MP3 player blasting out sweet snow goose calls, the flock turned and started to swing around toward our decoy spread. After a couple of minutes they had their wings cupped and were gliding into our shooting zone. Doug yelled “Take Em” and we all jumped up firing away. I don’t think I managed to hit anything with my volley but when the guns went quiet we had five geese down and Star bolted out to retrieve the birds. We were all excited to start the hunt with a bang!

During the next couple of hours it was kinda slow and we used that time to get to know each other and to learn about all that goes into snow goose hunting as well as making a hunting show. Doug at In Tight Outfitters runs a great waterfowl hunting business and really knows his stuff when it comes to decoying waterfowl “in tight” for great shooting opportunities.

He also knows how to cook a great breakfast. Doug fired up the cook stove and made us all a breakfast of bacon, eggs, biscuits, and gravy. The action heated up again between 10:30 and 11:30 that morning and before it had slowed we had decoyed in another five or six groups of geese continued on page 18

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Esteemed CFM Conservation Awards Presented Citizen Conservationists Recognized at Annual Convention

A

group of Missouri citizen conservationists were awarded for their volunteer and professional efforts to improve and protect our natural resources at the Annual Convention of the Conservation Federation of Missouri on February 22, 2013, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel, Jefferson City, MO. Chosen from a select group of nominees, the 2012 award winners represent the best of the best. Hundreds of CFM members and friends celebrated the winners accomplishments at a reception sponsored by Bass Pro Shops. Presenting the 2012 awards were CFM President Richard Ash and Martin MacDonald and David Smith of Bass Pro Shops.

Please visit the CFM website at www.confedmo.org to view our convention award booklet for further details.

Bob Whitehead, Saint Louis Conservation Communicator of the Year: For the outstanding conservation effort during the year by a person, newspaper, magazine, radio station, or television station in the state. Bob Whitehead gets the conservation message to thousands of Missourians through the Outdoor Guide and St. Louis Labor Tribune.

Regina Knauer, Jefferson City Conservation Educator of the Year: For the outstanding conservation effort in education in the state. Regina Knauer has brought Discover Nature Schools and the Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program to life and ensured their success.

John Fleming, Jefferson City Forest Conservationist of the Year: For the outstanding forest conservation effort during the year. John Fleming has helped bring professional forest management to thousands of landowners as an agency professional and consulting forester.

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George Sims, Mansfield Water Conservationist of the Year: For the outstanding water conservation effort during the year. George Sims is a tireless, passionate champion for Missouri streams, mentoring of other volunteers and dragonflies.

MDC and DNR staff say no one in Missouri is as deserving.

Allan Hoover, Pleasant Hill Hunter Education Instructor of the Year: For the most outstanding effort in hunter education in the state during the past twelve months. Posthumously awarded to Allan Hoover who has inspired and encouraged every instructor and staff person he ever met.

Kelly Srigley-Werner, Columbia Professional Conservationist of the Year: For the most outstanding accomplishment during the year by a professional in the field of conservation or natural resource management in Missouri. Kelly Srigley-Werner is the ultimate team builder and leader. Her contributions as a volunteer match those she makes on the job.

Richard Fordyce, Bethany Soil Conservationist of the Year: For the outstanding soil conservation effort in the state.

Richard Fordyce champions soil conservation efforts on his own land, across Missouri and our nation.

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Vance Vanderwerken, Savannah Wildlife Conservationist of the Year: For the outstanding accomplishment during the year which has made a significant contribution to the management and/or restoration of wildlife. Vance Vanderwerken enhances all aspects of his land for wildlife and instills a lifelong commitment to continue this legacy in his family and friends.

Dan Fuller, Pineville Youth Conservationist of the Year: For the outstanding conservation effort for youth or youth groups. Dan Fuller has brought smiles and hope to hundreds of youth and disabled Missourians. He proves every day that the outdoors is for everyone.

Senator Tom Dempsey, Saint Charles & Representative Eric Burlison, Springfield Conservation Legislators of the Year: For the outstanding conservation effort of the year among all members of the Missouri General Assembly. The recipient may be a member of the Missouri House of Representatives or the Missouri Senate. At the discretion of the Federation and its Awards Committee, one legislator in each chamber may be honored. This award can be for performance in any area of natural resource conservation. Senator Dempsey (top photo) championed the Hunter Heritage Protection Act. Representative Burlison (bottom photo) serves as the overall chair of the Missouri Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus.

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Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Jefferson City Conservation Organization of the Year: For the outstanding contribution to the conservation effort by a state organization during the year. AMEC, a membership organization itself, leads the way in promotion of conservation on its rights-of-way, in politics, in its publications and throughout all aspects of their business of delivering safe and affordable power.

Chris Vitello, Holts Summit Conservationist of the Year: For the most outstanding overall conservation effort and achievement or most significant contribution to the cause of conservation or toward solution of a major conservation problem in the state during the year. Chris Vitello has emerged to National prominence as an innovator, problem solver, public servant and volunteer. His leadership of National Fish Habitat Initiative, Fishers and Farmers Partnership and Angler Recruitment & Retention set the standard and inspire everyone.

Join the CFM Business Alliance today!

Check the annual member category you prefer: q $250—Basic q $1,000—Silver q $5,000—Gold q $10,000—Platinum CFM Business Alliance members will receive a one-year subscription to Missouri Wildlife, recognition in each issue of Missouri Wildlife and a CFM Business Alliance sticker.

Please mail this form with your gift supporting CFM to:

Conservation Federation of Missouri 728 West Main Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 The Conservation Federation of Missouri is a 501(c)(3) organization. If you have questions, call us at 1-800-575-2322 or visit us at www. confedmo.org to sign up online

Business Name:_______________________________________________ Contact Name:_______________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________________________ City:________________________________________________________ State:________________________________________________________ ZIP code:____________________________________________________ Work phone:_________________________________________________ Home phone:_________________________________________________ Fax number:_________________________________________________ E-mail address:_______________________________________________

Please make checks payable to the Conservation Federation of Missouri. We also accept MasterCard, Visa, or Discover below or online at www.confedmo.org Credit card number:___________________________________________ Expiration date:______________________________________________ Signature of cardholder:_______________________________________

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CFM Debates Issues: Annual Convention Produces Conservation Resolutions

he delegates of this year’s Conservation Federation of Missouri Annual Convention have voted to adopt forty resolutions on current issues. The convention challenges more than two hundred Federation members, meeting in natural resource committee sessions, to debate current conservation issues and develop positions statements, when appropriate.

#1: Continued Support of NASP ...recommends that NASP supporters provide continued funding for schools involved in NASP.

#2: Call Before You Cut ...urges the Missouri Department of Conservation, Society of American Foresters, United States Forest Service, American Tree Farm System, Missouri Consulting Foresters Association, Missouri Forest Products Association, and the Forest and Woodlands Association of Missouri to continue in support of this valuable program, help advocate, and publicize the need for sustainable forest management.

#3: Thousand Cankers Disease Education and Awareness ...urges the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Department of Agriculture, Missouri Walnut Council, United States Forest Service, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri, University of Missouri, Missouri Forest Products Association, and Missouri Tree Farm Committee to support ongoing research, prevention, detection, awareness, and education of citizens about the risks and consequences of this devastating disease.

#4: Extending Antler Point Restriction Exemption for Youth ...hereby requests the Missouri Department of Conservation to consider extending the Antler Point restriction 1 4

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Action letters have been sent to agency heads, legislative leaders (state and national), non-profit directors, and others requesting their response.

Each resolution concludes with “Resolved, That the Conservation Federation of Missouri assembled at the Capitol Plaza Hotel, Jefferson City, MO, this 24th day of February, 2013...”

exemption to those young bowhunters who purchase the Youth Archery Deer and Turkey permits.

#5: Expansion of Bait Dumping Education ...supports the expansion and enhancement of educational materials regarding bait dumping in the state of Missouri.

#6: Water Quality in Missouri Streams, Rivers, Lakes and Wetlands ...encourages the Department of Natural Resources to apply numeric water quality standards protective of aquatic life to all the waters and wetlands of Missouri.

#7: Creation of a Pilot Program to Promote Wildlife on Missouri Department of Conservation Vehicles ...requests that the Missouri Department of Conservation start a pilot program that will allow tailgate advertising on Private Land Services MDC vehicles across the state. The project results would be measured by number of contacts that this type of targeted advertising caused above and beyond current numbers. If this shows positive results, then this project could be expanded.

#8: Ten Year Non-Native CoolSeason Grass Eradication Plan ...recommends that the Missouri

Department of Conservation implement initial control efforts on every acre of non-native cool-season grass on MDC lands by 2025, and long-term management and control thereafter.

#9: NRCS Seed Mix Development Protocol ...supports a NRCS decision to move from pounds per acre to seeds per square foot method of seed mix development.

#10: Terminate the Fertilizer Requirement for the Conservation Reserve Program Practice CP2 ...contact the Missouri National Resource Conservation Service State Agronomist, Jodie Reisner, about terminating the fertilizer requirement for the CP2 practice in CRP.

#11: Have the Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Come Up With a Different Way to Determine Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Soil Rental Rates ...contacts the Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) to discuss changing the way the CRP rental rates are set by FSA. This could include a scientifically based survey of famers from each county to determine the cash rental rate in that county. From there, the State FSA could set up a Soil Rental Rate based on this survey that includes the 10 year inflation factor that is currently not

being considered in over half of the state of Missouri.

#12: Creation of New EQIP Food Plot Mix that Benefits Quail ...contacts the Natural Resource Conservation Service and urges them to discuss the addition of a grain food plot mix to the EQIP Practice Standards and Specifications at the next State Technical Meeting.

#17: Bird Watching Event for Families ...supports the promotion of family bird watching events state wide.

#18: Implementation of Regional Green Leadership Academy for Diverse Ecosystems Programs

#13: Support Creation of a New CFM Grassland Resource Committee

...encourages the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Missouri Universities, and willing organizations to implement regional GLADE programs in other parts of Missouri.

...urges the creation of a Grassland Resource Committee.

#19: Hooking Schools on Fishing

#14: Reinstatement of the Missouri Department of Conservation Food Plot Program ...contacts the Missouri Department of Conservation about reinstating their Food Plot Seed Program.

#15: 2013 Farm Bill Conservation Compliance Priorities ...urges the Missouri Congressional Delegation to support the reauthorization of a 5-year Farm Bill that includes Conservation Compliance measures to relink basic soil (Sodbuster) and Wetland Conservation measures (Swampbuster) to federal crop insurance, to enact a national sodsaver program, and lastly, to appropriate no less than $6 billion of funding to the Conservation Title of the next farm bill.

#16: Appropriating Funds for the North American Wetlands Conservation Act ...urges the appropriate members of the United States Congress to support appropriating the NAWCA Program at a minimum of the FY13 enacted appropriation of $35.5 million. As recently as FY10 NAWCA received $47.6 million.

...suggest that CFM supports this outdoor activity for high school students, and that MDC should consider creating an educational document outlining the benefits of bass fishing as a MSHSAA sanctioned sport, and presenting this document to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for distribution to the principals and superintendants of the state.

#20: Habitat for Humanity’s Cans for Habitat Program ...promotes community participation and receptacle placement with the Habitat for Humanity’s Cans for Habitat Program.

#21: CFM Supports DNR’s E-cycle Missouri ...supports the Department of Natural Resources e-cycle Missouri program.

#22: CFM Encourages the Statewide Implementation of P2D2 ...encourages legislation to be created that defines a legal and proper way to dispose of pharmaceuticals and for the state of Missouri to implement the Missouri P2D2 program.

#23: Support of the DNR’s Closed Landfill Technical Assistance Project ...supports the Department of

Natural Resources in their efforts to properly manage old landfills, ensuring the protection of human health and the environment both now and in the future.

#24: Lead Legacy in Missouri ...supports the Department of Natural Resources in their efforts to establish and implement a robust cleanup program for lead contaminated sites.

#25: Support of the DNR Management of Scrap Tires ...supports the Department of Natural Resources in their efforts to properly manage scrap tires, ensuring proper disposal and recycling of scrap tires as well as protection of human health and the environment both now and in the future. The CFM wants to ensure that the Department maintains the authority to develop appropriate fees, rules and regulations needed to protect Missouri’s citizens, wildlife, and the environment.

#26: CFM Opposes the Missouri House Bill 545 ...opposes the Missouri House Bill 545.

#27: Junior Hunter Education Instructor Program ...urges the Missouri Department of Conservation to consider developing a junior instructor program.

#28: Mentor Program ...encourages the Missouri Department of Conservation to create a mentor program that includes regional lists of experienced and willing hunters that would mentor first time hunters in a small game hunting experience and introduce them to the outdoors.

#29: Support for Missouri Water Quality Standards ...supports the revisions to water quality standards by the Missouri Clean Water Commission such that they continued on next page MIS S OURI

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assertively protect water for beneficial use by all Missourians.

#30: Support Clean Water Permit Fee Increases ...recommends that the Governor and the General Assembly work with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Water Protection Program and stakeholders to adjust clean water permit fees to compensate for the shortfall in income.

#31: CFM Support of Angler Recruitment and Retention ...supports MDC and DNR in their efforts to increase angler recruitment and retention in Missouri.

#32: Combine Heat and Power (CHP) and Distributed Generation ...urges the Missouri General Assembly, the Public Service Commission, the regulated electric utilities and other interested stakeholders to work together to review and modify policies so the result is increasing investments in combined heat and power and clean distributed generation projects in Missouri, for the benefit of the state of Missouri.

#33: Encouragement of LowImpact Development Education and Implementation ...supports and promotes the Department of Natural Resources in educating the public and local officials concerning concepts of Low Impact Development as well as the use, integration and implementation of Low Impact Development.

#34: Designate the Ozark Trail as Missouri’s State Trail ...requests the Missouri General Assembly to pass legislation to formally designate the Ozark Trail as Missouri’s State Trail.

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#35: Re-evaluation of Antlerless Permit Issued

#40: Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)

...encourages the Missouri Department of Conservation resource managers to evaluate county populations and adjust the availability of antlerless permits to maintain deer population numbers that will increase hunter satisfaction after current disease outbreaks.

... that the Conservation Federation of Missouri finds CWD is an extremely serious threat to the wild herd of whitetailed deer in Missouri: and be it further

#36: CFM Urges the Missouri Department of Conservation to Impose a Moratorium on Any New High Fence Hunting/ Breeding Facility for Cervids and/or Any Other Non-Native Species That Could Negatively Impact Missouri’s Native Flora and Fauna ...urges the Missouri Department of Conservation to impose a moratorium on any other non-native species that threaten to negatively impact Missouri’s native flora and fauna.

#37: Support Missouri State Park Funding ...supports the passage of SJR 3 and HJR 14 and encourages the legislature to include funding that will allow Missouri State Parks to address immediate needs and make necessary improvements so that the system can be fully utilized for the benefit of Missourians for many years to come.

#38: Service Project Lists ...encourages the appropriate federal, state, and local agencies and private organizations to develop accessible lists of conservation-minded service projects for groups (similar to CLC) to utilize.

#39: Wildlife Collector’s Permit ...recommends the Missouri Department of Conservation review the Wildlife Collector’s Permit process with respect to processing time, authorized assistants, and return of permits to applicants.

RESOLVED, That the CFM urges the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department of Agriculture, and the Missouri Legislature to focus all resources and move quickly to provide the statutory and regulatory structure required to minimize, contain and eliminate the threat to the wild herd of white-tailed deer caused by CWD: and be it further RESOLVED, That the CFM suggests that such further statutory and regulatory measures should include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. A moratorium on new or expanded Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders; and 2. MDC resume the comprehensive management and regulatory responsibility for the Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders, the movement of cervids into and within Missouri, including the management or oversight of a CWD program that requires a system of inventory for breeders and preserves that includes permanent physical identification of animals, date of birth, gender, date, and source of acquisition, date of removal, destination of animal removed, mortality date, cause of death, official CWD test result for all cervids one year of age or older at time of death, and the method and location of carcass disposal; and 3. Ban the importation of out-of-state cervids to Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders; and 4. Require, at a minimum, more detailed fencing specifications including double fencing consisting of 10’ and 8’ fences to prevent escape and contact with wild deer; and 5. Require Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders to obtain a financial assurance

instrument, such as a $1 million dollar performance bond, to secure a source of funds to effectuate a response to positive detection of CWD in captive whitetails in the event the Big Game Hunting Preserves or Class I Wildlife Breeders refuse or are unable to perform adequate response, depopulation or closure activities; and 6. Mandatory CWD testing of all whitetails that die or are harvested within Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders; and 7. Impose more stringent herd and fence surveillance requirements with meaningful penalties and enforcement for violations; and 8. Require Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders which have cervids that test positive for CWD to depopulate and maintain a deer proof fence for a minimum of 30 years; and 9. Require Big Game Hunting Preserves and Class I Wildlife Breeders to enroll deer one-year or older in a CWD program; and 10. Prohibit the holding of cervids at temporary exhibitions and auction/sale facilities; and 11. Review the standards and regulations surrounding all wildlife confinement and commerce to determine the level of risk posed to public resources and identify changes needed to address those risks.

CALENDAR MISSOURI FESTIVALS AND AFFILIATE EVENTS

AFFILIATE EVENTS FOREST AND WOODLAND ASSOCIATION OF MISSOURI MAY 31-JUNE 1: Missouri Tree Farm Conference, Ed Keyser Tree Farm, Kirksville GREENWAY NETWORK MAY 5: Dardenne Creek Monitoring Day (8:00am - 2:00pm) MAY 6: Monthly Board Meeting, Saint Peters (7:00pm - 9:00pm) MAY 8: Taming the Wild Muddy - A History of Change on the Missouri River, Big A’s Restaurant, Saint Charles (6:30pm - 9:00pm) MAY 17-20: National River Rally, Saint Louis JUNE 3: Monthly Board Meeting, Saint Peters (7:00pm - 9:00pm) JUNE 11: Location, Location, Location - How Missouri River Geography Shapes Restoration and Management Options, Big A’s Restaurant, Saint Charles (6:30pm - 9:00pm) HEAVEN’S ANGLERS MAY 9: Monthly Meeting, West County Assembly of God Church MAY 11: Club Tournament, Super Lake, IL JUNE 1: Charity Tournament, Mark Twain Lake JUNE 2: Club Tournament, J Lake JUNE 20: Monthly Meeting, West County Assembly of God Church MID MISSOURI TROUT UNLIMITED MAY 7: Regular Monthly Meeting, Jack’s Gourmet Restaurant, Columbia (7:00pm) JUNE 4: Regular Monthly Meeting, Jack’s Gourmet Restaurant, Columbia (7:00pm) MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF MEAT PROCESSORS MAY 31: Board of Directors Summer Meeting MISSOURI ATLATL ASSOCIATION MAY 10-11: The Dam Rendez-

vous, Bagnall Dam, Lake Ozark; David Lohr (417) 280-6304 MAY 16-19: Osage Knap-in & Atlatl Competition, Boonville; Jon Wood (573) 881-6622 or Jerry Nevins (573) 353-5313 MAY 31-JUNE 2: World Atlatl Day, Ottumwa, IA; Mary & Roger (641) 799-1219

Beards, First Baptist Church, Marble Hill; Randy Pogue (573) 238-3234

MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED MAY 3: Odessa Dinner, Community Building, Odessa (6:00pm - 9:30pm); Chris Coleman (816) 838-4401 or Artie Lett (816) 699-9299 MAY 10: Mizzou Miscellaneous, MU Campus, Columbia (6:00pm - 6:30pm); Tyler Cooper (636) 699-5814 MAY 11: Joplin Sponsor Dinner, Butcher’s Block, Joplin (5:30pm 9:00pm); Billy Cartright (417) 4991030 or Jim Pashia (417) 392-1199 MAY 11: Old Monroe Shoot, Blackhawk Valley Sporting Clays, Old Monroe (8:30am - 5:00pm); Cathy Kleinsorge (314) 578-1245 MAY 16: Jefferson City Sponsor Dinner, Apple Creek Farm, Centertown (5:30pm - 11:30pm); Dan Gordon (573) 690-6996 JUNE 30: State Committee License Plates (6:00pm - 11:30pm); Todd Carlton (573) 893-7449

WHEELIN SPORTSMAN EVENTS JUNE 1: Bootheel Boss Gobblers Clay Bird Shoot, Midwest Shooting Sports Clay Range; Randy Kuehn (573) 587-6184 JUNE 1: Bootheel Boss Gobblers, Heartland Banquet Hall; Timothy Schwent (573) 225-3740

MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION FUNDRAISING BANQUETS MAY 3: Jacomo Strutters, Sportsmen’s Club, Lake Lotawana; Norbert Kurok (816) 560-0799 MAY 3: Turkey Creek Longbeards, Jack Lawton Webb Convention Center, Joplin; Ron Gilbert (417) 434-0869 MAY 10: Osage Gobblers, Knights of Columbus Hall, Westphalia; Steve Brune (573) 897-2211 JUNE 8: Branson Tri-Lakes, Clarion Hotel, Branson; Fred Sharbrough (417) 331-0965 JUNE 21: Sand Hills Thundering Toms, Wild Idea Archery, Seymour; Jeff Ford (417) 880-7173 JUNE 22: Bollinger County Double

MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE MAY 4: Stream Team Cleanup, Sappington Bridge, Sand Ford and Redhorse Accesses on Middle Meramec MAY 15: Monthly Meeting - Guest Speaker, Dale Kipp, Sunset Hills Community Center, Sunset Hills (7:00pm - 9:00pm) JUNE 21-23: Ozark Rodeo

NWTF CALLING CONTESTS JUNE 15: Ozarks Wild Turkey Calling Competition, Civic Center, West Plains; Kathleen Morrissey (417) 293-7751

MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATION MAY 4: Hike, Glades of Indian Trail Nature Area; (314) 402-3345 MAY 11: Sand Prairie Guided Tour; (888) 843-6739 MAY 18: Field Tour of Welsch Tract Restoration Project; (888) 843-6739 MAY 25: Valley View Glades Natural Area Guided Hike; (636) 390-8025 JUNE 1-2: 4th Annual Prairie BioBlitz, Denison and Lattner Prairies; (888) 843-6739 JUNE 22-23: Prairie Paint Out, Bethany Springs Farm

MISSOURI TROUT FISHERMEN’S ASSOCIATION MAY 2: Fly Fishing Class (6:00pm - 9:50pm) MAY 4: Kid’s Derby, Lake Jacomo

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CALENDAR

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MISSOURI FESTIVALS AND AFFILIATE EVENTS

continued from previous page MAY 4: Kid’s Derby, Bennett Spring State Park MAY 4: Fishing Trip to Roaring River State Park (9:00am - 4:00pm) MAY 18-19: Spring Derby, Bennett Spring State Park MAY 25-26: 8th Annual Expo Reading’s Fly Shop JUNE 1-2: Discover Nature Women’s Event, Windermere JUNE 6: Monthly Meeting (6:00pm - 9:00pm) JUNE 8-9: Missouri Free Fishing Weekend JUNE 22: Annual Fish Fry JUNE 25: Monthly Meeting (7:00pm) MULE DEER FOUNDATION MAY 4: Muley Kids Event, Rod & Gun Club, Sedalia (8:30am 3:30pm); (660) 530-5500 OPEN SPACE COUNCIL MAY 30: 48th Annual Dinner and Silent Auction, Hilton Frontenac Hotel, Saint Louis (6:00pm - 9:00pm); (314) 835-9225 OZARK FLY FISHERS MAY 6: Board Meeting MAY 23: General Membership Meeting, Greensfelder Recreation Building, Queeny Park (7:00pm) JUNE 3: Board Meeting OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB MAY 11: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm) MAR 11: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm) JUNE 8: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm) JUNE 8: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm)

POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES, INC. MAY 18: Muskie Mayhem & Club Meeting; George Donner (816) 678-1623 JUNE 8-9: Northern Missouri Muskie Trail Outing & Meeting; George Donner (816) 678-1623 or Tim Dunaway (573) 588-4082 APR 20: Club Meeting; George Donner (816) 678-1623 RIVER BLUFFS AUDUBON SOCIETY MAY 3-5: Annual Spring Meeting (8:00am - 4:30pm) ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION MAY 11: Three Rivers Buglers Big Game Banquet, Poplar Bluff; LeNard Wagganer (573) 718-5030 MAY 25: South Central Missouri Big Game Banquet, West Plains; Paul Adelsberger (417) 469-0062 JUNE 8: Mid Missouri Big Game Banquet, Columbia; Tom Straka (218) 590-9902 UNITED BOWHUNTERS OF MISSOURI MAY 26: Three Trails 3D Shoot (8:00am - 2:00pm); Rick Marlow (816) 665-2672 or Tom Merker (816) 682-4293 JUNE 8: 1st Annual Southeast Missouri Carp’N Gar Fish Shoot’N and Get Together; Justin Glastetter (573) 225-9098, Tom Dickerson (573) 2437113 or (573) 382-3659, or Mike Calahan (573) 335-3994 JUNE 21: 2013 Rendezvous, Marshall Bowhunters, Marshall (8:00am - 8:00pm) CFM EVENTS MAY 19: Board Meeting, Inn at Grand Glaize, Lake Ozark (9:00am) AUG. 9-10: Pull for Conservation Weekend SEPT 21: Board Meeting DEC 14: Board Meeting

In Tight Outfitters blind.

harvesting about 30 birds in all. What happened next proved to be another first in my hunting experiences. Doug and Arnold pulled out a guitar and a banjo and started playing for all of us.

The TV cameras ate that up and soon we were all smiling and laughing at this country music performance in the middle of our goose hunt! The Dead Meat TV show’s theme is to harvest, cook, and taste some of the less well known and perhaps less desirable cuts of wild meat. A couple of goose breasts were filleted and out came the propane cook stove, skillet, season salt, garlic salt, oil, flour, milk, & jalapeños. Arnold took on the cooking duties with Scott providing the play by play for the camera. Once the meat was cooked, Arnold made up some gravy and we all tasted the entrée. I must admit the only goose meat I have ever eaten was Canada Goose and it wasn’t very good. This Snow Goose meat however actually tasted quite good. To get a more refined palette for the taste testing, Doug’s lovely wife Melissa was asked for her opinion. It was unanimous; everyone liked the taste of Arnold’s sautéed jalapeno snow goose and gravy. I actually had no idea how much work goes into filming a hunting show. By the time we had completed the required interviews and retakes for the cooking part it was after 5:00pm. I still had a one hour drive home and several geese to get cleaned for the freezer so we said our farewells and made sure to let everyone know how much fun we had. All in all it was a great day. As I write this I have no idea when the Dead Meat episode of our hunt will air on the Sportsman’s Channel but Scott and his whole crew thought it would be a great show. If they’re smart they should probably consider editing out my ugly mug, but even if they do I know I was there that day and I actually managed to kill a couple of geese! If you attend the annual CFM convention next year beware because you may have to bid against me if another snow goose hunt donated by Arnold Compton is on the auction block.

CFM Life and Board Member Jeff Blystone

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teaming with wildlife

A

nother successful year of congressional meetings for the Teaming With Wildlife (TWW) coalition!

Held annually in Washington D.C. to show support for State and Tribal Wildlife Grant (SWG) Program funding, this event is hosted by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and the National Invasive Species Council (NISC). The Missouri TWW delegation participated in activities on March 5th and 6th, including AFWA’s advocacy training, a reception at the National Wildlife Federation office, meetings with Congressional leaders and the Congressional Reception at the Rayburn House Office Building. It was a very busy, but productive time spent in our nation’s capital.

Missouri’s delegation included: Rick Thom - Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation Debra Lee – Conservation Federation of Missouri Jennifer Battson – Missouri Department of Conservation Carol Davit – Missouri Prairie Foundation Geralyn Hoey – National Wildlife Federation Regional Representative Each year, the AFWA Fly-in begins with a meeting assessing the current situation of SWG funding. SWG Program funding for the nation in FY12 was $61.4M, a

AFWA Fly in Success!

30% cut from FY10 funding.

In appointments with U.S. Senators and Representatives, the TWW delegation presents conservation benefits and wildlife success SWG funding brings to Missouri. It is inspiration for more conservation work on the ground. The request was for the highest funding level possible. It is a small investment toward the nation’s CORE program for preventing endangered species listings. The program leverages tens of millions of dollars in state, private and tribal matching funds annually and generates jobs locally to help Missouri’s economy.

FY13 budget is operating on a Continuing Resolution.

Hopefully the FY14 budget process will return to normal operation and the messages we take to protect the SWG program funding will have positive results.

This year, meetings were held with 7 of the 8 House offices and staff in both Senate offices. Congressman Luektemeyer, Congressman Clay and Congressman Graves visited with the TWW delegation in person. Key staff members in all of the offices were very generous with their time and attention.

We are very appreciative of the time our congressional leaders and staff spent with us during our visit to discuss funding for the SWG Program. Thank you Congressmen Clay (District 1), Cleaver (District 5) and Graves (District 6) for signing the “Dear Colleague” letter supporting the State and Tribal Wildlife

Left to Right: Rick Thom, Carol Davit, Jennifer Battson and Geralyn Hoey.

Photo credit: Debra Lee.

Visit to Senator McCaskill’s office. Left to Right: Rick Thom, Gary Gorski, Debra Lee, Jennifer Battson, Carol Davit and Mark Fowler.

Hannibal Bolton, US Fish and Wildlife Service. Photo credit: Debra Lee.

Grant Program for FY14. It is wonderful to have bipartisan support in Missouri!

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5th Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt

he 2013 youth spring turkey season (4/6 and 7/13) marked the 5th year that the Governor and First Lady Nixon, National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM), the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), elected officials from the capitol, and a host of private landowners and other volunteers organized and conducted the annual Governor’s youth hunt.

This event celebrates Missouri’s leadership role in hunter recruitment and retention. Missouri leads the nation in this important statistic with a 1.63.

This means that Missouri recruits 1.63 new hunters for every one lost. As most realize, hunter recruitment and retention is not only vital to the longevity of our sport as a political life support system but as a vital monetary support system for all conservation efforts. Even with the sales tax, license fees and excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment fund a large percentage of the services that add significantly to the quality of Missourians lives; services that have a price that many take for granted.

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aged and well publicized, special opportunity seasons and areas, affordable pricing, less restrictive regulations, and others. Bottom line, Missouri has a lot to offer an outdoors person and it doesn’t take a second mortgage on your house or a law degree to participate.

This special hunt in April provided 14 youth from across the state with the excitement and splendor of a spring turkey hunt.

This high profile event was centered around one of the states most economically valuable wildlife resources (300 million dollars and 4,000 jobs) and the season that has proven to be one of the more effective recruiting tools.

The event began on Friday afternoon (4/5/13) where the 14 youth and their guardians participated in hunter safety and shotgun sighting activities hosted by MDC at the United Sportsmen’s Club in Jefferson City. The 14 youth were sisters Lauren Hartwein and Olivia Stecker, Samuel Baumer, Claire Battson, Clayton Miller, Zack Woods, brothers Trevor and Ty Rinne, Hunter Beshears, Samuel Stecz, Caleb Gordon, Alex Morack, Casey Thompson, and Robert Smith. Upon completion of the training, the kids and their guardians met at the Governor’s mansion where Governor and First Lady Nixon hosted them to a fine meal and some words of wisdom from Governor Nixon, Di-

rector Bob Ziehmer of the MDC, and Executive Director Dave Murphy of CFM. After pictures were taken of the group on the mansion steps to commemorate the event, the kids, their chap-

erones, and guides departed for their respective hunting areas. Access to these properties were provided by gracious landowners including: Jerry and Kyle Lairmore, Bill Haag farm,

John and Dale Slicker, Eldo Meyer, Bruce Sassmann, Randy Prenger, Ron Lehman, David Groenke, Charlie Schlottach, Don and Brant Masek, and Mitch Merten.

The guides were primarily NWTF volunteers that gave of their time, talents, and property contacts to make this event possible.

Saturday morning came early and hunting conditions were tough. Our crazy weather that kept winter around longer than most of us would’ve liked this year, had the birds a little behind normal behavior for this time of year. The birds on most of the properties were still in large winter groups and although the gobblers were display-

ing they weren’t gobbling much because they were with hens night and day.

Weather conditions on Saturday also brought day long gusty winds making it even more of a challenge for the young hunters and their guides. However, it did not rain, weather conditions Sunday were ideal, and 7 of the 14 youth participants harvested their first turkeys and several others had opportunities.

We hope to continue to provide this opportunity each year and encourage others to introduce someone new to this wonderful sport we call turkey hunting.

John Burk NWTF Regional Biologist

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CFM Conservationists For Life ($1,000 Contribution)

Charles Abele, Saint Louis R. Philip Acuff, Saint Joseph Duane Addleman, Springfield Michael Duane Addleman † Nancy Addleman † Nancy Carol Addleman, Springfield Tom Addleman, Harrisonville James Agnew, Arnold Craig Alderman, Buffalo Allen Appell, Calhoun Richard Ash, Ozark Carolyn Auckley, Ballwin J. Douglas Audiffred, Ballwin Michael Baker, DeSoto Dane Balsman, Frankfort, KY Don Bedell, Sikeston Jim Tom Blair, Saint Louis Jeff Blystone, Independence Glenn Boettcher, Owensville Marilynn Bradford, Cape Girardeau Stephen Bradford, Cape Girardeau Mark Brandly, New Baden, IL Scott Brundage, Columbia Glenn Chambers, Columbia Bryan Chilcutt, Columbia Ed Clausen, Jefferson City Ron Coleman, Saint Albans Mark Corio, Arnold Bill Crawford, Columbia Andy Dalton, Springfield Ryan Diener, Marthasville Joe G. Dillard, Columbia Ron Douglas, Springfield Charlie Drury, Saint Louis Chuck Drury, Saint Louis Tom Drury, Saint Louis John Enderle, Kelso Joe Engeln, Columbia

Howard Fisher, Higginsville Mary Louise Fisher, Higginsville Andrew Fleming, Columbia Howard Fleming, Moberly Lori Fleming, Columbia Matt Fleming, Moberly Paula Fleming, Moberly Sara Fleming, Moberly Manley Fuller, Tallahassee, FL Matt Gaunt, Columbia Timothy Gordon, Belgrade Blake Gornick, Kirkwood Richard & Sally Graham, Hartsburg Joseph Gray, Saint Joseph Debbie Gremmelsbacher, Saint Louis Gery Gremmelsbacher, Saint Louis Mark & Kathy Haas, Jackson Christopher Hamon, Kirbyville Herman Hanley, Grain Valley Keith Hannaman, Blue Springs Milt & Deanna Harper, Columbia Jack & Pat Harris, Saint Louis Mickey Heitmeyer, Advance Loring Helfrich, Sikeston Randy Herzog, Saint Joseph Bill Hilgeman, Manchester James Hill, Mexico C.W. & Delores Hook, Higginsville Allan Hoover † John Hoskins, Fremont Larry & Joan Hummel, Glencoe Patricia Hurster, Saint Louis Jim Jacobi, Saint Charles Aaron Jeffries, Jefferson City Don Johnson, Festus Malcolm “Mac” Johnson, Hartsburg Roger Johnson, Humansville Pat Jones, Williamsburg

Tom Karl, Farmington Cosette Kelly, Kansas City Duane Kelly, Kansas City Marty King, University City Judd Kirkham, Climax Springs Elizabeth Knight, Charlotte, NC Jeff Kolb, Weldon Spring Chris Koster, Jefferson City Carl Kurz, Leawood, KS Ann Kutscher, Jefferson City Larry Lackamp, Bates City Kyle Lairmore, Owensville Jay Law † Gerald Lee, Kansas City Joel LeMaster, Fulton Norman Leppo, Saint Louis John Lewis, Columbia Leroy Logan, Arnold Christine Logan-Hollis, Blackwell Bob Lorance, Stover Ike Lovan, Steelville Wayne Lovelace, Elsberry Chip McGeehan, Marshfield Teresa McGeehan, Marshfield Richard Mendenhall, Columbia Tom Mendenhall, Columbia Cynthia Metcalfe, Clayton Walter Metcalfe, Clayton Davis Minton, Dexter Lowell Mohler, Jefferson City John Moore, Jr., Gelena Johnny Morris, Springfield John & Patricia Mort, Smithville David Murphy, Columbia Dean Murphy, Jefferson City First Lady Georganne Wheeler Nixon, Jefferson City Governor Jay Nixon, Jefferson City

Charlie & Mary Beth O’Reilly, Nixa Larry & Nancy O’Reilly, Springfield Austin Owens, Lebanon Jeff Owens, Marshfield Sara Pauley, Hartsburg Scott Pauley, Hartsburg Randy Persons, Poplar Bluff Abe Phillips, Saint Louis Jan Phillips, Saint Louis Glenn & Ilayana Pickett, Columbia Jessica Plaggenberg, Florissant Becky Plattner, Grand Pass Jerry Presley, Centertown Albert Price, Columbia Nick Prough, Blue Springs Kirk Rahm, Warrensburg Kurtis Reeg, Saint Louis David & Janice Reynolds, Springfield Gerald Ross, Jefferson City Tyler Ruoff, Savannah Bruce & Jan Sassmann, Bland Fred Saylor, Independence Evelyn Schallon, Ballwin Mike Schallon, Wentzville Mossie Schallon, Wentzville Pamela Schnebelen, LaBarque Creek Ronald Schwartzmeyer, Arnold Timothy Schwent, Jackson Travis Scott, Columbia George Seek, Meadville E. “Sy” Seidler, Saint Louis Sara Seidler, Saint Louis Anita Siegmund, Saint Louis Gary & Susanna Smith, Neosho M. W. Sorenson, Columbia Ed Stegner, Pilot Grove Charles & Winnie Stribling, Mexico Mary Stuppy, Joplin

Mark Sullivan † Jacob Swafford, Portales, NM Jim Talbert, Jefferson City Travis Taylor, Lawson Tim Thompson, Lake Saint Louis Jeff “J. T.” Tillman † Robert Tompson, Moberly Alex Uskokovich, Glendale Gary Van De Velde, Jefferson City Barbara vanBenschoten, Kansas City Lee Vogel, Kansas City Al Vogt, Columbia Julius Wall, Clinton Ginny Wallace, Jefferson City Randy Washburn, Versailles Henry J. Waters, III, Columbia Mary Waters, Columbia Robert O. Werges, Arnold Mark Williams, Lawson Michael Wilson, Saint Louis Stephen Wilson, Hartsburg Addie Witter, Annville, PA Brenda Witter, Holts Summit Daniel Witter, Holts Summit Owen Witter, Columbia Dick Wood, Saint Louis Howard Wood, Bonne Terre Joyce Wood, Bonne Terre Nicole Wood, Bonne Terre David Young, Windsor Dan Zerr, O’Fallon Jim Zieger, Blue Springs Emily Ziehmer, California Lauren Ziehmer, California Robert Ziehmer, California Ethan Zuck, Strafford Guy Zuck, Strafford † Deceased

When will you add your name to the list?

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C o n s e r v a t i o n F e d e r a t i o n o f M i s s o u r i A F F I L IATES Anglers of Missouri, Inc. Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Bass-Hole Bassmasters of Missouri, Inc. Big Game Hunters, Inc. Bobwhite Quail Restoration Association Bridlespur Hunt Club Capital City Fly Fishers Central Missouri Chapter Safari Club International Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment Deer Creek Sportsman Club, Inc. Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Greenway Network, Inc. Heaven’s Anglers Howardville Community Betterment Jefferson County Coon Hunters, Inc. Meramec Area Sportsman Association Mid Missouri Outdoor Dream Mid Missouri Trout Unlimited Midwest Diving Council Mississippi Valley Duck Hunters Association Missouri Association of Meat Processors Missouri Atlatl Association Missouri BASS Federation Nation

Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative Missouri Bow Hunters Association Missouri Chapter of the American Fisheries Society Missouri Chapter of the Wildlife Society Missouri Chapter Soil & Water Conservation Society Missouri Conservation Agents Association Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Consulting Foresters Association Missouri Ducks Unlimited State Council Missouri Forest Products Association Missouri Grouse Chapter of QUWF Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, Inc. Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation Missouri Native Seed Association Missouri Parks & Recreation Association Missouri Parks Association Missouri Prairie Foundation Missouri River Bird Observatory Missouri Smallmouth Alliance Missouri Society of American Foresters Missouri Sport Shooting Association Missouri State Campers Association Missouri State Chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association Missouri State University Bull Shoals Field Station

Missouri Taxidermist Association Missouri Trappers Association Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association Missouri Whitetails Unlimited Mule Deer Foundation North Side Division Conservation Federation Open Space Council of the Saint Louis Region Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc. Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club Perry County Sportsman Club Pomme de Terre Chapter Muskies, Inc. Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc. Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever River Bluffs Audubon Society River Relief, Inc. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation South Side Division Conservation Federation Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers Tipton Farmers & Sportsman’s Club United Bow Hunters of Missouri Walnut Council & Other Fine Hardwoods Wecomo Sportsman’s Club Wild Elk Institute of Missouri Windsor Lake Rod & Gun Club

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agency news - department of conservation

K

MDC and Federal Agents Snag Major Paddlefish Poaching Operation

nown as the “Paddlefish Capital of the World,” Warsaw, Missouri, is a favorite area for many of Missouri’s approximately 16,000 sport paddlefish snaggers because of its location along the Osage River. Agents with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) discovered that the Warsaw area is also a favorite location for paddlefish poachers.

A cooperative undercover investigation by the two agencies recently resulted in more than 100 suspects from Missouri and eight other states being issued citations and/ or arrest warrants for state and federal crimes related to paddlefish poaching.

Missouri’s official state aquatic animal, the paddlefish is an ancient species. Also called spoonbills, they can grow up to seven-feet long and weigh 160 pounds or more. Paddlefish are valued as a sport fish for both their size, and for eating. Paddlefish are also valued for their eggs, or roe, which are eaten as caviar.

The section of the Osage River running along Warsaw in Benton County is a paddlefish hot spot because it is blocked upstream by Truman Dam. When spawning paddlefish reach the dam, their route is blocked and their numbers increase dramatically. This dramati-

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cally increases sport anglers’ chances of snagging the big fish with a random jerk on a fishing line equipped with large hooks.

This concentration of female paddlefish laden with eggs also makes Warsaw a prime location for paddlefish poachers to get the fish eggs for national and international illegal caviar markets.

“The national and international popularity of Missouri paddlefish eggs as a source of caviar has grown dramatically in recent years,” said MDC Protection Chief Larry Yamnitz. “This is a result of European sources of caviar having declined from overfishing of the Caspian Sea’s once plentiful and lucrative beluga sturgeon, another species of fish known for its caviar.”

Caviar is a delicacy created by preserving fish roe in special salts. According to MDC, about 20 pounds of eggs or more can be harvested from a large, pregnant female paddlefish. Retail prices for paddlefish caviar vary. A current common retail price is about $35 per ounce.

“Caviar prices in illegal or black markets also vary,” Yamnitz said. “A common black-market price is about $13 an ounce. Therefore, a single large female paddlefish with about 20 pounds of eggs is carrying about $4,000 worth of potential caviar for black market sales.”

These paddlefish were harvested during the undercover operation. Photo credit: MDC.

UNDERCOVER POACHING INVESTIGATION PAYS OFF Over the course of March 13 and 14, approximately 85 conservation agents of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), 40 special agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USWFS), and wildlife officers from other states contacted more than 100 suspects in Missouri and eight other states to issue citations, execute arrest warrants, conduct interviews and gather

additional information regarding a paddlefish-poaching investigation.

The effort included eight individuals indicted for federal crimes involving the illegal trafficking of paddlefish and their eggs for use as caviar.

Other states involved were Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.

The arrests and citations were the result of a multi-year joint undercover investigation

by MDC conservation agents and special agents of the

agency news - department of conservation HELP STOP POACHING

An immature paddlefish swimming. Photo credit: MDC.

USFWS involving the illegal commercialization of Missouri paddlefish and their eggs for national and international caviar markets. The undercover investigation ran during the spring 2011 and spring 2012 paddlefish seasons, March 15 through April 30. It was based out of Warsaw, Missouri.

Additional MDC conservation agents and federal agents supported the undercover operation.

“Sport anglers may only catch two paddlefish daily and the eggs may not be bought, sold or offered for sale,” Yamnitz explained. “Extracted paddlefish eggs may not be possessed on waters of the state or adjacent banks and may not be transported.

Paddlefish and their eggs may be commercially harvested only from the Mississippi River.”

He added that through the undercover operation, agents were able to identify suspects engaged in wildlife violations involving the illegal purchase, resale and transport of paddlefish and their eggs, document other violations of the Missouri Wildlife Code in

addition to the core investigation, and determine that paddlefish eggs harvested in Missouri were being illegally transported out of the state for redistribution.

Federal crimes tied to the poaching involve violations of the Lacey Act. The Act makes it a federal crime to poach game in one state with the purpose of selling the bounty in another state and prohibits the transportation of illegally captured or prohibited wildlife across state lines.

MDC and the USFWS worked with the Benton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Benton County Sheriff’s Department and the U.S. Department of Justice on the investigation.

Identification of suspects in violation of state wildlife charges is pending legal filings. Copies of the federal indictments may be obtained from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Kansas City.

Yamnitz added that additional details about the undercover operation are vital to the investigation and prosecution of cases and therefore not available at this time.

The investigation began with tips from the public about illegal activities.

“Individuals from the Warsaw area first alerted us to potential paddlefish poaching in the area,” said Yamnitz.

“We are grateful to them, and encourage anyone spotting suspected illegal fishing or hunting activity to contact their local conservation agent, or call Operation Game Thief at 1-800-392-1111, 24 hours a day. Callers may remain anonymous and rewards are available for information leading to arrests.”

POPULARITY OF MISSOURI PADDLEFISH Paddlefish are highly valued by both sport anglers and commercial fishermen.

Through MDC stocking efforts at three large reservoirs, Missouri is able to offer some of the best paddlefish snagging fisheries in the U.S. The fisheries are at Lake of the Ozarks and its tributaries, Harry S. Truman Reservoir and its tributaries, and Table Rock Lake and its tributaries, primarily the James River arm.

Without MDC’s stocking of these fisheries, and other paddlefish management practices, paddlefish numbers would sharply decline in Missouri’s reservoirs, reducing opportunities for sport snaggers.

In the past, paddlefish were naturally abundant in Missouri, but their numbers declined because of channelization, damming, impound-

ments and other river modifications. These modifications have greatly diminished the natural habitat paddlefish need to reproduce in the wild.

Today, paddlefish in Missouri must be stocked. MDC stocks about 45,000 hatcheryproduced 10-12-inch-long paddlefish fingerlings each year in Missouri’s three main paddlefish locations: Table Rock Lake, Truman Lake and Lake of the Ozarks.

PADDLEFISH FACTS Paddlefish are an ancient species of fish that date back to the times of dinosaurs. The sturgeon is a similar species of fish. Both are popular for their flesh and their eggs, or roe, which is used as caviar.

Paddlefish, also known as spoonbills, are most easily identified by their paddleshaped nose, which accounts for about one-third of their body length.

Paddlefish are cartilaginous, which means that they have no bones. They are bluishgray to blackish on the back and grade to white on the belly. They have small eyes and no scales.

Paddlefish are filter feeders.

Despite their large adult size, paddlefish eat tiny crustaceans and insects, called zooplankton, as they constantly swim slowly through water with their mouths wide open.

Paddlefish can grow to a length of about seven feet, weigh up to 160 pounds or more, and live 30 years or more. Females grow larger continued on next page

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agency news - department of conservation

MDC and USFWS undercover paddlefish/poaching investigation revealed these jars of processed paddlefish eggs to be used as caviar. Photo credit: MDC.

and heavier than males. It takes about 6-8 years for a paddlefish to reach legal harvest size (34-inches) in Missouri’s large reservoirs. Female paddlefish reach sexual maturity at 8-10 years and spawn every 2-3 years. Male paddlefish reach sexual maturity at 4-5 years and spawn annually. The egg masses of female paddlefish can be up to 25 percent of their body weight, with a large female paddlefish carrying about 20 pounds of eggs, or roe.

Paddlefish live mostly in open waters of big rivers and were historically found in the Mississippi, Missouri and Osage rivers, along with other streams. Paddlefish spend most of the year dispersed throughout large reservoirs and rivers until warm spring rains increase flows and raise water temperatures, which prompts the big fish to swim upstream on their spawning run. Spawning runs occur in late spring at times of increased water flow. It is triggered by a combination of daylight, water temperature, and water flow.

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SNAGGING PADDLEFISH Because they are filter feeders that eat tiny crustaceans and insects, paddlefish have no interest in traditional fishing lures and bait.

The most popular and dependable way to catch paddlefish is by snagging. This involves using a stiff, strong 6-9-foot pole with a heavyduty reel and line. A sinker weight is attached near the end of the line, and a hook or cluster of hooks is attached to the end of the line.

Snaggers cast their lines so the sinkers hit the bottom of the river or lake. They then sweep the pole back and forth so the line moves through the water. This sweeping motion jerks the hooks through the water, followed by reeling to take up slack from the jerk. This allows the hooks to “snag” paddlefish to be reeled in.

For more information about paddlefish, visit mdc. mo.gov Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC

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2013 Spring Fling

T

he 2013 Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation’s Spring Fling was held on Pomme de Terre Lake on Sunday April 7th.This year’s event was the 3rd year the tournament was held as a benefit for the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). There were 65 boats entered in the tournament. The lake conditions were favorable to many in the field of anglers.

A recap of the tournament is listed below. Most fish were reported to be caught on jigs and plastics and some on spinner baits and crank baits. The river arms seemed to have a little warmer water than the main lake but not much shad activity was reported in the river arms.

I would like to especially thank the following people for their help in making this tournament run smooth as always.

Bill Lewis Jeannine Lewis Elizabeth Lewis Randy James Kathy Blankenbeker Brenda Lee I offer a special thanks to Brad Machin for helping run fish and release back alive into the lake.

Several other members of the Missouri B.A.S.S. Federation Nation were there to assist in fish release and set up and breakdown.

60% of the entry fees were paid back to the anglers and 40% was donated to the CFM. The donation totaled $2,340.00 and Abe Phillips,

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Photo credit Debra Lee.

past President and Board member of the CFM was presented with the check.

Abe also fished with Vice President of MO BASS John Blankenbeker for the third year in a row and claimed to have caught bigger fish than John. He also assisted at weigh in by drawing boat numbers for the Bass Pro Shops gift certificates donated by Bass Pro Shops, Carbon X Rods Certificates from David Gray of Carbon X Rods, Abu Garcia Revo Reel and Vendetta Rod donated by Pure Fishing and several Live Target Frogs donated by the Official Hard Bait Sponsor of the Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation Koppers Live Target. Big thanks to Bass Pro Shops for their generous donation of $1000.00 in Bass Pro Shops gift

Photo credit Debra Lee.

certificates and the rest of the sponsors. There were 10 boats that received a $100 gift card to Bass Pro Shops as a random draw prize.

I challenged everyone at the weigh in to bring one extra boat each to next year’s

event and we will have over 100 boats and pay backs and the donation will double.

The tournament has been growing by over 10% the past few years and we will soon top 100 boats.

The Harbor Marina and

Photo credit Debra Lee.

Photo credit Debra Lee.

Restaurant hosted the event again for us this year and had breakfast available as well as snacks, drinks, ice and fuel available for anglers prior to tournament take off. I would encourage all anglers to support them next year and come early for breakfast since they opened early for us and had a great breakfast buffet and helpful staff.

Thanks once again to all of the anglers for their participation and cooperation and we look forward to next year’s event.

Below is listed a recap of the tournament. With 65 boats entered there were 7 teams that received money for their placement as well as the overall Big Bass winner.

- 65 Boats - 38 Boats Weighed Fish - 157 Fish Caught and Released - 380.7 Pounds - 2.42 Average Weight per Fish - 6.75 Big Bass Weight-Team Greg Becker and Don Thrall - 19.80 1st Place-Steve Olive/Brad Dickey - 16.30 2nd Place-Walt Hammond/Dan Laboube - 15.70 3rd Place-Tracey Salisbury/David Salisbury - 14.40 4th place-Dan Cox/Gary Cox - 14.35 5th Place-Aaron Fogelsong/Ben Redwing - 14.35 6th Place-Terry Bradley/Scott Hill - 14.05 7th Place-Tim Bankston/Cliff Mosley

Photo credit Debra Lee.

Jim Zieger President, Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation

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2013 Convention

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e would like to extend our deepest appreciation to all of the sponsors who helped make CFM’s annual convention the most successful on record. Special thanks to these key partners for their financial contributions to help ensure our success. Bass Pro Shops, Missouri Petroleum Council, Drury Hotels, Missouri’s Electric Cooperatives, Whitetails Unlimited, Conservation Foundation of Missouri’s Charitable Trust, Missouri Conservation Pioneers, National Wildlife Federation, Commerce Bank and the George C. Clark Missouri State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

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– At A Glance We also appreciate those who, undaunted by the late winter storm, traveled to share in the fun, fellowship and business of the Federation once again. THANK YOU! Seven individuals committed to CFM Life Membership, 40 resolutions passed out of committee and as always, numerous individuals were recognized formally for outstanding conservation achievements.

Our hats are off to this year’s convention planning committee and to everyone working behind the scenes for their fine work in pulling off this outstanding event and whose efforts will no doubt help us reach even greater heights in 2014.

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CFM Strategic Planning Committee Report

T

he past few months have been busy for the Strategic Planning Committee. We welcomed four new members to the committee, Richard Mendenhall, John Knudsen, Zach Morris and Bill McGuire. Several of us including Dave Murphy met with Richard Ash and Al Vogt on October 22 to hear about the priorities the president and first vice president have for CFM. Then on January 10 the Strategic Planning Committee and Dave Murphy met to review the items discussed with Richard Ash and Al Vogt and to discuss other items the committee believes are important for the strategic plan. From these meetings the committee recommended 14 items listed below for approval by the CFM Board of Directors at the February 24, 2013 meeting. The following items were part of the Consent Agenda and were approved by the board to be incorporated into the strategic plan.

1. CLC students should be asked to volunteer to take Minutes of Resource Committee meetings, however the committee chairs are

to have their choice as to who serves as secretary and takes Minutes. The Resource Committees should use guidelines for Minutes recommended by Norman Leppo and put Minutes on flash drive.

2. A plan for coping with disasters should be prepared. The plan should contain things to be done should a disaster occur impacting building, financial, payroll and historical records and staff should be included in the plan.

3. Consideration should be given to establishing a separate Resource committee on Water Resources to deal with important issues pertaining to Missouri’s water resources.

4. A shortened version of the CFM Strategic Plan containing no more than four to six pages with graphics and concentrating on strategies rather than operations needs to be prepared for use in marketing and other efforts

by CFM. The Strategic Planning Committee should concern itself with goals and strategies and the CFM staff and CFM committees should be responsible for the operational and action items. The Goals in the plan might be moved in

sequence to fit a particular need with the agreement of the staff.

5. A description of each CFM committee needs to be prepared along with a description of what is expected of members when they become a member of a committee.

6. Relationships with CFM affiliates needs to be enhanced.

7. Memberships need to grow in all categories.

8. A definition of the $1 million reserve needs to be prepared along with what it costs to run the office/ cost per day.

9. Need greater diversity, (i.e. age, race, etc.) among CFM and CLC members.

10. The item in the plan pertaining to meeting with the Missouri Farm Bureau needs to be changed to read meeting with the agriculture community.

11. Need to add to the Working with Partners section of the plan more partners than Missouri Farm Bureau and educational organizations.

12. Need to get other organizations to help with legislative hearings on fees.

13. Need to review the classifications Standing and Ad Hoc assigned to CFM Committees for many

committees do not really fit the definition of Ad Hoc for they have existed for many years. Perhaps most committees need to be labeled “Committee” and then when a really temporary committee is formed it could be called a “Task Force”. If this is done then a termination clause can be made part of the act that creates the task force. If this is done there might need to be a change in the CFM By-Laws.

14. In the Financing Section of the plan it needs to be added that CFM needs a Fiscal/Budget policy, that CFM needs to go after large gifts, the Ways & Means Committee needs to have a role in addressing these issues and the Marketing Committee needs to be involved as well.

During the next few months the committee will be drafting the shortened version of the CFM Strategic Plan concentrating on goals and strategies referred to in Item 4 above.

Howard Fisher and Earl Cannon Co-Chairs, Strategic Planning Committee

Conserve Life:

Slow Down More than 1,100 people die on Missouri highways each year.

Don’t become a statistic. Conserve life by slowing down and by always making sure your seatbelt is buckled. BUCKLE UP 3 2

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

Visit our website: www.confedmo.org