Vol74 no4 2013

July 2013 VOL. 74, NO. 4

Inside This Issue:

MISSOURI

Wildlife

Featured articles Motorcycle Tour and Poker Run Planned Sept. 6-8 at Sam A. Baker State Park .................................................................................... 6

July 2013 Vol. 74, No. 4

Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation Announces New Executive Director .... 18

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

Union Pacific Railroad Ask Drivers to Use Caution at Railroad Crossings While Traveling . . ............................................................................ 26

Travis Scott

Union Pacific Railroad Reminds Hunters Not To Be Drawn To Railroad Property . . ....... 26

Debra Lee

Tee-It-Up For Missouri Outdoors ................................................................................. 8 Rick Thom Retires from Missouri Heritage Foundation ..................................... 13

Open Space Council for the St. Louis Region Honors Conservation Leaders . . ................. 28 A Legacy of Conservation . . .......................................................................................... 30

news, updates and columns President’s Message..............................................................................................2 Calendar.................................................................................................................12

Staff Director of Development

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.

Teaming With Wildlife

Celebration of Migratory Bird Day A Proclamation for MOBCI Presented by First Lady, Georganne Nixon Recognized the Trumpter Swan...........14

Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation Host Donor Appreciation & Dedication Event.............................................................15

Children in Nature Challenge.............................................................................15

Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative Annual Conference....................................16

Agency News

Department of Natural Resources Let’s Go Hiking!................................................................................................4

Missouri Department of Conservation MDC Adds 39 “Plus-1” to Missouri Elk Restoration Effort...............................22

Five Year Missouri Poaching Case Against 46 Ends in Federal Court................24

Get Your Hunter Ed Certification Early..........................................................25

Member Information

New Members......................................................................................................3 Business Alliance Members....................................................................................5 Conservationists For Life.....................................................................................20 Affiliates of the Federation..................................................................................21 Honorariums & Memorials.................................................................................24

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 • mhaymaker@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: A Mother’s Love: Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura).

Only a mother could love a “chick” like this !!! © Glenn D. Chambers 2013. www:glenndchambers.com

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president’s message

Turning Another Page with CFM

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n our last Missouri Wildlife we announced that Executive Director, David Murphy, was about to retire after serving ten (10) years at the helm of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM). Indeed that day arrived on May 31st and a significant period of our history came to a close.

Truly, Murphy’s tenure went out with a “bang”. When CFM’s staff and officers discussed how best to show their appreciation, Dave emphasized that he would prefer it not be all about him.

Instead, he asked that if there was to be any celebratory function in his honor, it should serve as a fundraiser for CFM. That would be gift enough for him.

And so, his request was honored and on May 2, 2013. A $100 a-plate Dinner and Celebrity Roast was held at the Tiger Hotel in Columbia. And, yes, this CFM fundraiser was quite successful – please read more in a later article here in Missouri Wildlife. If you missed this opportunity to “thank” Dave and recognize his exuberance for Conservation via a contribution to the 10th Legion Endowment, please do so as you personally choose to express your appreciation for his efforts at CFM’s helm.

Let me also point out that Dave is a CFM Life Member, and although he is retired as paid-staff, he has not stopped working for Conservation. He has agreed to serve as a member of both the OAKs and Share-The-Harvest Committees. In addition, he continues to work with our Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Consideration Committee.

Many of you may know that Dave is a pretty good cook in his own right.

However, at CFM’s inaugural Golf Tournament, he toiled as an apprentice to Master Chef Bill Kirgan – one of CFM’s newest Board Members. For those who did not attend this CFM fundraiser – YOU MISSED OUT!!!

The golfers and volunteers on hand were treated not only to a lunch of

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after the retirement announcement, a seven (7) member Search Committee was appointed. Their role is to recruit a pool of candidates and to complete a selection process which will provide viable recommendations to CFM’s Executive Committee to consider.

Don Johnson was tapped to lead the Search Committee as its Chair. Don’s qualifications to fill this role are many.

For reference, a few would be: Vice President of Human Resources for Suddenlink Communications, CFM’s delegate to the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Past President of CFM and a Conservation Commissioner. To supplement Don’s wealth of experience, Al Vogt was then named the Vice Chair. As CFM’s current First Vice President, Al’s background includes having been the Director of the School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri’s Columbia campus. Too, it is surmised that this coming March, the Federation’s membership may be considering him to be elected CFM’s next President. To assist Don and Al are the following committee members:

delicious pork loin sandwiches but the most “scrumptious” ribs for dinner.

Several folks made repeated visits to the food line, including yours truly. Again, later within this publication, Travis Scott, CFM’s Development Director, will convey more about the tournament and its success; and he and his volunteer committee certainly deserve applauds. But, I wanted to also make mention of the wonderful food provided and express my special thanks to Dave, Bill and Bill’s under-the-radar assistant, his wife Mary Ellan.

So what is happening towards filling the vacancy as CFM’s Executive Director?

Well, the “search” is on. Shortly

- Stephen Bradford (former Conservation Commissioner) - Earl Cannon (former Co-Chair of CFM’s Strategic Planning Committee) - Ron Coleman (CFM’s Second Vice President & Alternate Delegate to NWF) - Mossie Schallon (CFM’s Secretary and Convention Committee CoChair) - Nicole Wood (NWF’s Board Member & recent OAK’s Committee CoChair) The Search Committee has reviewed and revised the Executive Director’s job description as needed. They have

sought input to ascertain primary skill/ knowledge sets deemed priorities for the position in “today’s” challenging environment. Consideration has also kept in mind CFM’s mission and strategic long-term goals. This input has been sought from diverse sources including but not limited to CFM’s Board, CFM Staff, Affiliate Representatives and partner Agency officials (i.e., MO’s Director of Natural Resources). The process includes

WELCOME C F M N E W mem b e r s Joseph Berezowski, Festus Ed Bettenhausen, Centralia Grant Bower, Festus Michael Brandt, Warrensburg Zack Bridgewater, Saint Louis Andrea Brown, Cuba Tim Brunsman, Saint Louis Brian Burke, Imperial Paul Chaney, Belleville, IL James Coe, Fulton Jess Cole, Gentry Gabe Compton, Crystal City Angela Corson, Warrensburg John Crites, Festus Leon Crites, Festus Sherman Crites, Columbia James Dye, Mexico Leo Echele, Saint Charles Cary Eggemeyer, Festus Kathy Feldewerth, Troy Steve Floyd, Festus Steve Foster, Festus Gregg Garrison, O’Fallon Douglas Godier, Festus Charlie Goodwin, Saint Louis Eugene Griffith, High Ridge Daniel Hageman, Festus Dennis Hageman, Imperial John Hartmann, Saint Louis

conducting a nation-wide search using a variety of means. Both CFM and the NWF have distributed recruitment information throughout their networks of affiliates and agencies with conservation interests. As of this date, the anticipated deadline for application could be until July 31st as the Committee is committed to finding the best possible slate of candidates for consideration. To date, in excess of thirty (30) candidates have submitted their

Chris Hersinger, Festus Sue Holst, Jefferson City Andrew Hueter, Festus Clint Johnston, Festus Hadley Kilgore, Ballwin Justin King, Saint Louis Richard King, Saint Peters Brandon Klaus, Arnold Lester Koelling, Eolia John Kolb, Jefferson City Kenneth Langer, Osage Beach William Layne, Tipton Calvin Lindwedel, Hillsboro Darvin Lipp, Festus Lee Lottes, Sainte Genevieve John Madras, Jefferson City Mike Mainzer, Ballwin John Mather, Saint Louis Donnie McComack, Herculaneum Ryan McKenna, Crystal City T.J. McKenna, Festus Chris McKinney, Festus James McPeters, Festus Jim Meda, Hillsboro David Menefee, Sedalia Dolores Meyer, Ballwin Chris Monroe, Saint Peters Corey Nixon, Monett Drew Null, Festus Vic Nygal, Arnold David Orf, Troy Chuck Otec, Crystal City

resumes for consideration.

If you know of someone who you feel could be a good candidate, do not hesitate to point them in CFM’s direction. They can call Micaela at CFM’s office or check out CFM’s website for more information.

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

Mike Pashia, Festus Craig Paukert, New Bloomfield Bob Pennock, Festus Tyler Powell, Wentzville Mark Prouhet, Maryland Heights Pete Richardson, Festus Ron Roellig, Eureka Braden Roth, Festus Glenn Rousset, Fenton Thomas Rousset, Ozark Timothy Rousset, Springfield Kenneth Sadler, Columbia Gary Schilb, Sedalia Chris Schweppe, Festus Tyler Shearburn, Ballwin Paul Skinner, Herculaneum John Souva, Imperial Steven Spezia, Manchester Wilbert Stephens, Union Jason Sumners, Columbia Eli Surdyke, Festus Jennifer Surdyke, Festus Matt Surdyke, Festus Brett Thomas, Saint Peters Don Thomas, Pevely Aaron Thompson, Columbia, IL Chris Thompson, Festus Gordon Thompson, Chesterfield Judith Trout, Pleasant Hill Shawn Tucker, Saint Louis Dan Weber, House Springs Chris & Laurie Wilson, Jefferson City

CFM would like to thank the 374 members that renewed since our last publication.

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department of natural resources

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ummer is upon us.

Time to bask in the sun, work in the garden, hike or bike through Missouri’s state parks or sip on a glass of cool lemonade as you catch a breeze on the front porch swing. In today’s fast-paced world, it is critically important that we remember to slow down and make the most of our opportunities to spend time outdoors. After all, spending time outdoors is not only good adventure, but good for the soul.

There are many great leaders who also appreciated the time they spent in nature.

They were determined to create a legacy that would preserve and protect these outdoor spaces through parks, forests, preserves and trails the public could enjoy for years to come.

“The wonder of Nature is the treasure of America.

What we have in woods and forest, valley and stream, in the gorges and the mountains and the hills, we must not destroy. The precious legacy of preservation of beauty will be our gift to posterity,” according to Lyndon Baines Johnson, our 36th President of the United States.

Forty-five years ago, Johnson signed into law the National Trails System Act that established national recreation, scenic and historic trails. Early this year, Missouri proudly accepted the title of Best Trails State given by the American Trails, a national, nonprofit

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Let’s Get Hiking!

Early this year, Missouri proudly accepted the title of Best Trails State given by the American Trails, for making tremendous contributions to promote and improve its trails system. Photo credit: Missouri DNR

organization working on behalf of the nation’s hiking, biking and riding trails. The national award is presented every two years to the state that has made tremendous contributions to promote and improve its trails system.

Our Missouri State Parks offers almost 1,000 miles of managed trails and 2,900 acres of motorized riding areas. Missourians can walk, hike or bicycle on incredibly diverse trails throughout our 87 state parks and historic sites. Exploring our trail system not only provides us with a great adventure, it also provides us with an opportunity to improve our overall health and wellbeing.

Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson was correct when she

said, “A beautiful America will require the effort of government at every level, of business, and of private groups.” Missouri’s awardwinning trail system would not be possible without the financial commitment and support of many agencies, businesses, organizations like Conservation Federation of Missouri and most importantly the public through their continued support approving the Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax. It’s through those successful partnerships, dedicated staff and our state park visitors that have earned our state park system a national reputation as one of the best in the country. The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the

National Recreation and Park Association recently announced Missouri State Parks as one of the State Award Finalists for the 2013 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Our system is repeatedly a finalist in the national Gold Medal Award Program for State Parks and this year is no exception.

We’re keeping our fingers crossed until the Gold Medal winner is announced this fall.

Missouri is truly blessed to contain some of the most outstanding state parks and historic sites that provide the public with more than 200,000 acres to get outdoors to discover, explore, learn and enjoy. To encourage Missourians to get out-

doors and enjoy Missouri’s nationally recognized trails, Governor Jay Nixon and First Lady Georganne Nixon launched the Governor’s 100 Missouri Miles Challenge during National Trails Day on June 1.

The 100 Missouri Miles initiative challenges Missourians to complete 100 miles of physical activity by the end of the year. Whether you prefer to walk, hike, bike, paddle or row, Missourians of all ages, interests and ability levels are encouraged to participate.

You might spend an afternoon winding your way through the state’s largest tallgrass prairie at Prairie State Park in southwest Missouri. While at the park, you may see an American bison or add some new birds to your birding list by spot-

ting an eastern meadowlark, dickcissel or Bell’s vireo. Or perhaps the more adventurous types will enjoy mountain biking through the rugged terrain bicycle trails at Finger Lakes or Castlewood state parks. Those wishing to peddle more leisurely and enjoy the great views of scenic Table Rock Lake may do so on the Shoreline Trail at Table Rock State Park.

We hope all Missourians will take advantage of this opportunity by stepping foot on one of our spectacular trails this summer. Be sure to post your favorite pictures along the way through Facebook.com/100MoMiles and Twitter.com/100MoMiles or use #100MoMiles. Visit www.100MissouriMiles. com to join this exciting challenge and check out mostateparks.com for ad-

ditional details about events near you.

Our state park system offers something to suit everyone’s taste - outdoor adventure, great scenery and a bit of history. With Missouri’s 87 state parks and

historic sites, the possibilities are boundless, so get outdoors and visit one today!

Let’s Get Hiking!

Sara Parker Pauley Director, 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

General Printing Service Goodwin Brothers Construction Company Greenbrier Wetland Services Heartland Restoration, Inc. Joe Machens Dealerships Land & Water Partners, Inc. Lewis County Rural Platinum Electric Cooperative MidwayUSA Macon Realty Company McRoberts Farm, Inc. Silver Meramec Bison Farm, LLC Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc. Mid America Mortgage Services, Inc. James T. Blair IV Middle River Bluffs Pyramid Home Health Services Midwest Mailing Services Redneck Blinds NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. Union Pacific Railroad Osage Canoes, LLC Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc. Basic Quality Forest Management, LLC Bee Rock Outdoor Adventures, LLC REMAX Boone Realty Brown Printing R. L.’s Swimming Pools, LLC Cap America Sapaugh Chevrolet Buick Citizens Telephone Company GMC Cadillac Columbia Daily Tribune Shafer, Kline & Warren, Inc. Consolidated Electric Cooperative Sierra Bullets, LLC Cooper’s Oak Winery and Socket Telecom, LLC A & K Cooperage, LLC Sport & Spine Rehabilitation Dickerson Park Zoo Tabor Plastics Company DJ Case & Associates The Bank of Missouri Farm Management Service Thirty 3 Bar & Grill (Dan & Cheri Erdel) Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association Thomas Industrial Coatings, Inc. Trumans Bar & Grill, Inc. Forrest Keeling Nursery White River Valley Electric Friends of Ryan McKenna Cooperative, Inc. Full Care, Inc. MIS S OURI

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Motorcycle Tour and Poker Run Planned Sept. 6-8 at Sam A. Baker State Park

xperience the rolling St. Francois Mountains while rolling down the highway during the Bikers at Baker event Sept.6-8 at Sam A. Baker State Park in Wayne County. The second-annual Missouri State Parks mo-

torcycle poker run and tour will feature a weekend of fun, food and music, as well as a chance to see some of Missouri’s most scenic state parks and historic sites.

Sponsored by Missouri State Parks and the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the weekend event will begin Friday evening. Saturday will feature a poker run to some of the area’s most scenic and dramatic state parks, including Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Johnson’s ShutIns State Park and Elephant Rocks State Park. Sunday will include time to explore the area and see what makes Sam A. Baker State Park one of Missouri’s premier state parks.

“Last year was the first year for this event, and we

received great feedback from the participants. We’re glad to bring it back so our friends on a motorcycle will again have the unique opportunity to see all the awesome sights in this part of the state,” said Bill Bryan, director of Missouri State Parks, a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

More information on registration fees and a schedule for the weekend will be available soon. If you want to be put on a list to receive registration information, e-mail moparks@dnr.mo.gov or call 800-334-6946.

Participants are responsible for making their own camping and lodging reservations.

Sam A. Baker State Park offers a full-service campground with both basic and

electric campsites as well as rustic cabins. To make camping reservations, call 877422-6766 (877-ICampMO) or visit mostateparks.com. To make lodging reservations, call 573-468-6519. When making a reservation, be sure to mention you are participating in the Bikers at Baker event.

Sam A. Baker State Park is located north of Patterson on Highway 143 in Wayne County. For more information on Sam A. Baker State Park or the Bikers at Baker event, go to mostateparks. com or call Missouri State Parks at 800-334-6946. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

CFM Travel Mug • A 15-oz tumbler/mug with double-wall construction and a stainless steel interior and exterior.

• Has a screw-on, lock-top lid and a curved, easy-pour spout.

• Easily fits most auto cup holders.

Only $20.00 (includes shipping/handling)

Order yours today! Just call CFM toll-free at (800) 575-2322.

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Tee-It-Up For Missouri Outdoors

he weather could not have been more perfect for Conservation Federation’s Tee-It-Up For Missouri Outdoors golf tourney held Friday, June 7th. We wish to express our deepest thanks to Union Pacific Railroad and its staff for offering CFM the opportunity to hold this inaugural CFM fundraiser at The Course at Castle Ridge and Selma Conference Center. The event was a tremendous success with more than ninety participants joining us for

the afternoon and resulted in 60 NEW members for CFM. Special thanks to CFM Board member Bill Kirgan and his wife Mary Ellan for preparing an unforgettable lunch and dinner for our participants. We would also like to express our appreciation to all of those who served on this year’s planning committee, to those who participated in the event, to our donors and most importantly to our sponsors.

CFM Tee-It Up Results Championship Flight:

A Flight:

B Flight:

1st Place Team – Jim Meda, Nathan Picarella, Don Thomas, and Don McComack 2nd Place Team – Steve Foster, Greg Glore, Chris Monroe, and Gregg Garrison 3rd Place Team – Carl Vogt, Aaron Pashia, Mike Pashia, and Dennis Beck

1st Place Team – Charlie Goodwin, Zack Bridgewater, Erick Hermann, and Aaron Hite 2nd Place Team - Steve Floyd, Pete McPeters, Drew Null, and Clint Johnston 3rd Place Team – Doug Chilton, Doug Godier, Josh Straup, and Justin Neal

1st Place Team – Abe Phillips, John Hartmann, Randy Washburn and Gary VanDeVelde 2nd Place Team – Jeff Welch, Grant Bowen, Bob Pennock, and Dave Pashia 3rd Place Team – Shawn Tucker, Tedd Yemm, and Joe Harzey

Closest to the hole winners were Brandon Klaus, Paul Skinner and Greg Garrison. Brandon Frye won our longest drive competition.

Background photo credit: Kevin Dawson – Union Pacific Railroad.

Photo credit: Kevin Dawson – Union Pacific Railroad.

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Photo credits: Debra Lee.

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CALENDAR M I SS O U R I F E S T I V A L S A N D A F F I L I A T E E V E N T S

AFFILIATE EVENTS CENTRAL MISSOURI CHAPTER SAFARI CLUB INTERNATIONAL AUG 10: Saint Peters Catholic Church, Fulton; Walter Coleman (573) 642-3540 GREENWAY NETWORK JULY 1: Monthly Board Meeting, Saint Peters (7:00pm - 9:00pm) JULY 10: One River, One Problem, Big A’s Restaurant, Saint Charles (6:30pm - 9:00pm) JULY 20: Uber Asphalt, Life for Life Academy, Saint Louis (9:30am 12:30pm) JULY 23-26: Missouri American Water River 340 Canoe and Kayak Race AUG 5: Monthly Board Meeting, Saint Peters (7:00pm - 9:00pm) AUG 24: Race for the Rivers HEAVEN’S ANGLERS JULY 11: Monthly Meeting, West County Assembly of God Church JULY 13: Club Tournament, Lake Vandalia, IL AUG 1: Monthly Meeting, West County Assembly of God Church AUG 3: Club Tournament, Kincaid Lake, IL MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION JULY 10: What to do with Asian Carp JULY 22: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion AUG 26: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion MISSOURI ATLATL ASSOCIATION JULY 19-21: MO Jam, Marshall; Jon Wood (573) 881-6622, Peter Warnock (660) 831-4044 or Scott Rorebeck (660) 359-2368 MISSOURI BASS FEDERATION JULY 13: Board Meeting, Warsaw JULY 14: Summer Sizzler, Truman Lake MISSOURI BOW HUNTERS ASSOCIATION JULY 13-14: NFAA Sanctioned State

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Outdoor Archery Championship, Independence Bow Hunters, Fleming Park, Blue Springs; Jason Hancock (573) 248-8658 or Steve Bridger (816) 419-2310 JULY 27-28: State 3D Archery Championship, Carroll County Bowhunters, Carrollton MISSOURI CHAPTER OF THE QUALITY DEER MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION AUG 24: Missouri’s SEMO Trail of Tears 5th Annual Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Jackson; Allen Morris (573) 450-2186 MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED JULY 10: Kansas City Region Volunteer Training Meeting, Bass Pro Shops, Independence (6:30PM 9:00PM); Rene Sersch (816) 763-3482 JULY 18: Ozark/Springfield Area Volunteer Meeting, Ozark Shooters, Walnut Shade (5:30pm - 9:00pm); Jason Pritchard (417) 234-4096 or Brad Watson (417) 766-4552 JULY 20: State Committee - Grand Giveaway, Knights of Columbus Hall, Columbia (2:00pm - 5:00pm); Tony Berter (913) 221-6119 or Todd Carlton (573) 415-6697 AUG 22: Blackwater - Warrensburg Sponsor Dinner, Warrensburg (5:00pm - 9:00pm); Brad Bromwell (660) 2381380 or Gary Carter (660) 747-8414 AUG 24: Parkville Membership Dinner, Athletic Complex, Parkville (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Dan Mason (816) 377-0696 AUG 24: Longview Appreciation Dinner, German Turner American Hall, Belton (6:00pm - 9:00pm); Rene Sersch (816) 763-3482 or Troy McKinney (816) 358-8547 MISSOURI HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR’S ASSOCIATION JULY 28: Board Meeting, Bass Pro Shops, Columbia (10:30am) MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION FUNDRAISING BANQUETS JULY 11: Saint Louis Sponsor Event,

Saint Louis Skeet and Trap Range, Pacific JULY 26: Finley River Chapter, Christian County Elks Lodge, Ozark; Jared Byerly (417) 840-4973 JULY 26: Shoal Creek Chapter, Park and Casino Building, Monett; Bill House (417) 442-3719 JULY 27: Ritchie Meredith Memorial Chapter, Robinson Middle School, Aurora; Brian Fronabarger (417) 678-0130 AUG 2: Dry Fork Strutters, Oak Meadow Country Club, Rolla; Jason Bell (573) 265-1693 AUG 3: Locust Creek Longbeards, Community Center, Milan; Kirk Hendershott (660) 216-9991 AUG 3: Ozark Mountain Gobblers, Arcadia Valley Elks Lodge, Pilot Knob; Kenneth Sherrill (573) 546-3392 AUG 10: Lake Country Longbeards, Knights of Columbus Hall, Monroe City; Robert Kendrick (573) 248-7361 AUG 10: Race to Save the Hunt at Lucas Oil, Lucas Oil Speedway, Wheatland; Stephen Barlow (620) 228-2366 AUG 10: Rhine Valley Chapter, Saint George Church, Hermann; Lyndon Ruediger (573) 594-7189 AUG 17: River Bottom Gobblers, Armory, Caruthersville AUG 17: Saint Louis Sponsor Event, Anheuser Busch Mansion, Saint Louis; Matt Ludwig (314) 853-4424 AUG 24: Clark County Longbeards, Pioneer Seed Building, Kahoka; Michael Paben (660) 479-5567 AUG 24: Perry County Beards and Spurs, Elks Lodge, Perryville; Dominic Blythe (573) 547-9209 AUG 31: Committee Gun Raffle, Cape Girardeau; Larry Neal (314) 334-4942 JAKES FIELD DAYS AUG 17: Stealth Gobblers Chapter, UCM Trap and Skeet Range, Warrensburg; Dave McCannon (660) 747-8260 AUG 24: Young’s Creek Strutters, Tri County Lake; Eddie Schultz (573) 682-4659

WHEELIN SPORTSMAN EVENTS JULY 26: Platte Purchase Sportsman’s Night Out, Moila; Edward Heidel (816) 253-9583 AUG 11: Lake Show-Me Longbeards, Little Fox River Sporting Clays; Mike Allen (660) 323-5562 MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE AUG 24: Operation Clean Stream MISSOURI TAXIDERMIST ASSOCIATION AUG 2-4: 33rd Annual Competition and Convention, Country Club Hotel and Spa, Lake Ozark MISSOURI TROUT FISHERMEN’S ASSOCIATION AUG 1: Monthly Meeting (6:00pm 9:00pm) AUG 16: Insect-O-Rama, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield (6:30pm - 9:00pm) AUG 22: MSU Fly Fishing Class (6:00pm - 9:50pm) AUG 29: MSU Fly Fishing Class (6:00pm - 9:50pm) MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITED JULY 27: Black Island Chapter Banquet, Unity Center, Portageville AUG 3: Loose Creek Buck Fever Banquet, Community Center, Loose Creek AUG 17: Boone County Disabled Freedom Hunt Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Columbia AUG 24: Missouri River Whitetails Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Washington OPEN SPACE COUNCIL JULY 27: 17th Annual Meramec Watershed Celebration, Meramec State Park, Sullivan AUG 24: Operation Clean Stream OZARK FLY FISHERS JULY 8: Board Meeting JULY 12: Macro Invertebrate Fly Tying Class (7:00pm); Scott Darrough (314) 560-1335 JULY 13: 5th Annual Water Quality Monitoring Outing, Montauk State Park (9:00am); Scott Darrough (314) 560-1335 JULY 25: General Membership Meeting, Greensfelder Recreation Complex, Queeny Park (7:00pm) AUG 5: Board Meeting AUG 22: General Membership Meeting, Greensfelder Recreation Complex, Queeny Park (7:00pm) AUG 24: Operation Clean Stream; Scott Darrough (314) 560-1335

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Rick Thom Retires from Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation

xecutive Vice President Rick Thom announced last month that he is retiring from the Foundation at the end of June. Rick has headed MCHF since 2007, after retiring from a 28-year career with the Department of Conservation. The Foundation has increased its visibility, improved its business operations, and funded scores of conservation projects during Thom’s tenure.

Board President Steve Mowry says of Thom, “One of the greatest pleasures I have had in my conservation work has been the opportunity to work with world class professionals, right here in our own Missouri Department of Conservation. Rick Thom is at the very top of that fraternity. I will miss Rick’s quiet, effective leadership at MCHF but know that he will continue to remain involved as a private citizen.

CALENDAR M I SS O U R I F E S T I V A L S A N D A F F I L I A T E E V E N T S

OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB JULY 13: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm) JULY 13: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm) AUG 10: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm) AUG 10: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm)

Our loss will be the gain of a number of private organizations, every one of which will benefit from his great experience, demeanor and knowledge.”

POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES, INC. JULY 13: Kids Day, State Park Marina; Dan Diement (314) 752-9971 or Steve Worstell (816) 520-2371 JULY 27: Pomme de Tour, Pomme Arm; Earle Hammond (417) 993-0035 AUG 17: Pomme de Tour, Lindley Arm; Earle Hammond (417) 993-0025 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION JULY 20: Osage Buglers Chapter Banquet, American Legion Hall, Blue Springs (5:00pm)

Rick will enjoy more flexibility to pursue his many outdoor and conservation interests, and to spend more time with family and friends.

“It has been an honor and a

AUG 10: Capaha Big Game Banquet, Cape Girardeau; Dawn Myers (573) 335-8789 UNITED BOWHUNTERS OF MISSOURI JULY 18-21: MO Jam (7:00am 7:00pm) AUG 9-11: 2013 Deaf Camp; Dennis Voss (636) 359-2506 or Darren Haverstick (417) 693-5304

great learning experience for me to work for MHCF”, says Rick. “The Foundation has enthusiastic board members and staff, wonderful conservation partners, and committed donors and friends. It was especially satisfying to continue to support the good work of the Missouri Conservation Department, which is the Foundation’s primary mission.”

“When Rick Thom became executive Director of MCHF, he brought a wealth of conservation experience with him” says Board Chairman David Reynolds. “He has used this experience to move the foundation forward and outlined a strategy for our future. Nature’s rhythms are a constant source of inspiration, much as Rick has inspired the Board during his tenure as executive director.”

CFM EVENTS AUG 9: Pre-Shoot Dinner, Bass Pro Shops, Columbia AUG 10: 7th Annual CFM Sporting Clays Classic, River Hills Sporting Clays, Boonville SEPT 21: Board Meeting DEC 14: Board Meeting

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teaming with wildlife

Celebration of Migratory Bird Day A Proclamation for MOBCI Presented by First Lady, Georganne Nixon Recognizing the Trumpeter Swan

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n celebration of Migratory Bird Day, the second Saturday in May, Governor Nixon signed a proclamation recognizing the Trumpeter Swan as the official Bird of the Year for Missouri. First Lady Georganne Nixon presented the proclamation to the steering committee of the Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative (MoBCI) on Monday, May 13th, 2013 at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The event was held in a glade that had been restored with grant-funding provided by MOBCI. It was a great opportunity to share a bird watching experience with Missouri’s First Lady and to showcase work that is made possible by a cooperative effort of many entities utilizing MOBCI grants.

MOBCI is an umbrella organization comprised of more than 62 organizations affiliated with bird conservation and habitat restoration. This year the steering committee selected the Trumpeter Swan to be the migratory-birdof-the-year for the remarkable conservation successes to recover this species and the wetlands it depends on as well as the magnificent

First Lady Georganne Nixon presents MOBCI President, Charlie Burwick with the Proclamation from the Governor identifying the Trumpeter Swan as Missouri’s Bird of the Year. Credit: Norman Murray, MDC

beauty it brings to Missouri. Migratory Bird Day is celebrated in May in the U.S. and Canada and in October in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean each year.

Conservation Federation of Missouri has supported the Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative from its inception and commends our partners on the successful accomplish-

ments achieved through state and private funds. Missouri Department of Conservation Wildlife Diversity Funds and State Wildlife Grants in combination with contributions from private and non-profit organizations have allowed MOBCI to administer a competitive grant program which has a dramatic impact on Missouri bird populations.

Projects receiving funding

through this competitive program are categorized by habitat and invasive species.

Total investment in the grant program has resulted in more than $4M of work on the ground since 2004.

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Debra Lee Teaming With Wildlife Coordinator, CFM

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Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) Hosts Donor Appreciation & Dedication Event

he MCHF began fundraising to construct a fishing and viewing platform at Bennett Spring State Park in 2011. The platform was to be constructed below the dam at Bennett Spring. The goal of $45,000 was met and additional funding allowed an effort to construct an additional handicapped accessible ramp and platform, which is across the stream from the hatchery office, just below the dam. The platforms were completed prior to March 1 opening day of Missouri trout season. A dedication and donor appreciation was held on Saturday, May 4 in conjunction with the annual Kids Fishing Day at the park.

Despite the below normal temperatures and snow flurries, about 80 people braved the cold to enjoy the ribbon

The honor of ribbon cutting was given to Sharyn Fry Case of Columbia. She and her husband, Jerry Case, shared a love for the outdoors and fishing at Bennett Spring State Park. Credit to MCHF.

cutting and view the plaques that have been placed at each site to show the donors who participated or who honored loved ones with memorial

signage. The project was a joint effort of MCHF and the Missouri Departments of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Debra Lee Teaming With Wildlife Coordinator, CFM

Children in Nature Challenge Healthy, happy children are the most precious resources of any community.

Today’s children, however, suffer from a disconnection with nature and the outdoors. Reconnecting them with nature can improve a child’s sense of well-being and mental abilities; it can encourage physical activity

that reduces obesity; and it can help build lifelong understanding and concern for the care of our natural resources. The Children in Nature Challenge is a program to recognize communities and families who create opportunities for their children to get outside and discover nature firsthand.

Created by Governor’s Executive Order (EO 10-18), the “Children in Nature Challenge” directs state agencies to encourage Missouri communities to give children more opportunities to learn about and experience nature first-hand in all parts of the state. For more information on how your community

can get involved, visit http:// childreninnature.mo.gov or email at childreninnature@ mo.gov.

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teaming with wildlife

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Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative (MOBCI) Annual Conference

he Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative (MoBCI) is a partnership of organizations that “get excited about birds,” care about bird conservation, and/or have formal legal responsibilities for bird conservation. It is an organization of organizations, a diverse partnership dedicated to the conservation of wild birds and their habitats. The MoBCI was

most $3 million in additional partner matching funds, for a grand total of $4.4 million put towards “on-the-ground” bird conservation actions.

The primary purpose of MOBCI is to work together to conserve, restore, and protect bird populations. Today, the organization represents 62 other organizations focused on various aspects of bird conservation. To learn more about MOBCI please

formally established August 16, 2003 following the written commitment of 28 charter organizations to unite in the pursuit of integrated all bird conservation. A series of communication and consensus building meetings preceded the MoBCI’s official formation.

Since its inception, MoBCI has grown and awarded approximately $1.4 million for projects, which brought in al-

Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative Conference ANNUAL MEETING — August 23-24, 2013 Columbia, MO

attend the 2013 MOBCI Annual Conference in Columbia, Missouri at the Peachtree Catering and Banquet Center on August 23rd and 24th, 2013. Registration opens the first week of July and can be found at http://www.mobci. org.

If you would like to receive a registration packet, please contact Michelle McGrath at michelle.mcgrath@mdc. mo.gov or 573-751-4115.

REGISTRATION FORM

Early Registration Deadline: August 16, 2013

Name: _____________________________________________________________ Affiliation: _____________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ City: _______________________ State: _________ Zip: ________________ Phone: __________________________________________ Email Address: _____________________________________________________________

Registration Fees:

*To help us plan for Friday activities, please indicate if you plan to attend on Friday:

o Yes, I plan to attend the Friday night activities

o No, I will not to attend on Friday night

o Early Registration, before August 16 $45.00

o Late Registration, after August 16

$55.00

o Guest Registration

$32.50

Make checks payable to MOBCI Foundation or pay via PayPal

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☐ MOBCI c/o Michelle McGrath MO Dept of Conservation P.O. Box 180 Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180 (573) 522-4115 ext. 3150

☐

Conference Location: The 2013 conference will be held at the Peachtree Catering and Banquet facility at 120 E. Nifong Blvd. in Columbia, MO. This facility does not have overnight accommodations so the conference attendees are encouraged to book their own rooms, in advance, at a facility of their choice. Columbia has a wide selection of hotels and motels within a short distance of the Peachtree.

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Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation Announces New Executive Director

Jeffrey Blackton Takes Leadership Role in Growing Organization

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he Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation (MHHF) announced the appointment of Jeffrey Blackton as its new Executive Director. Blackton, from Kansas City, MO assumed responsibilities June 1. Blackton was chosen to be the Executive Director after an extensive statewide search by MHHF that included input from the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri.

A recent graduate from the University of Missouri – Kansas City, Blackton is an avid outdoorsman.

“Jeff has the right combination of enthusiasm, business management, youth leadership and outdoor experience to help MHHF expand beyond the Kansas City area,” says Federation President Lee Vogel.

“We’re excited to have him on our team.”

As Executive Director, Blackton will focus on recruiting and retaining MHHF members, securing funding for the ongoing growth of MHHF and help assure the consistent execution of the MHHF clinic

model across the State of Missouri.

“Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation is unlike any other youth hunter education program,” says Blackton. “Our unique clinic model focuses entirely on the youth experience and assures that every participant gets the opportunity to connect with Missouri’s hunting heritage.”

Blackton holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from UMKC and has successfully launched several businesses. In addition, he holds both Missouri Hunter and Missouri Bow Hunter Education Certifications.

The role of Executive Director was previously held by Allan Hoover who passed away in December, 2012.

Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, a serviceoriented, nonprofit federation of volunteer members and affiliates, conduct clinics designed to engage young people and their families in perpetuating our nation’s hunting heritage.

With a focus on continuing the use of hunting as an essential component of the North American Model

for Wildlife Conservation, MHHF propagates safe hunting practices, the ethics of fair chase and a respect for and appreciation of

wildlife. MHHF works with similar-minded entities to ensure continuation of the hunting tradition.

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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 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 Dale & Linda Bourg, Ozark 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 Edward Clayton, Clayton 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 Tom & Margaret Hall, Arrow Rock 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 Norman Tanner, Cape Girardeau 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?

CFM Life Membership Application Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: _______________________________ Payment Method (circle one):

Cash

Email: __________________________________________________ Check ________________________________________________

Credit Card_________________________________________________________ Exp. Date:__________________ 2 0

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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

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MDC Adds 39 “Plus-1” to Missouri Elk Restoration Effort

he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) added 20 adult cow elk, 16 yearling cow elk, three yearling bull elk and one newborn male calf to its elk restoration project in the Ozarks Tuesday morning.

Transported via livestock trailer from Kentucky, where they spent the past four months quarantined in a holding pen, the elk arrived at temporary holding pens on MDC’s Peck Ranch Conservation Area at first light.

MDC staff quickly ushered the hoofed cargo into spacious holding pens, and within an hour Missouri’s newest four-legged residents were resting in the shade and grazing on lush clover.

Thirty-nine elk started the journey west, which ended with 40. MDC’s Jake Rieken, who made the trip west with the elk after spending the past four months caring for them in Kentucky, got a wonderful surprise when the convoy stopped so staff could check on the animals.

He discovered that one of the pregnant cows had delivered a male calf. To avoid injury to the newborn, Rieken and other MDC staff removed it through a side door in the trailer. They placed it in a large animal crate in the bed of a pickup truck, secured the blanket-covered crate, and continued the trip. The newborn calf, nicknamed “Plus-1,” was reunited with

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its mother in a holding pen at Peck Ranch.

“He is doing very well,” said MDC State Wildlife Veterinarian Kelly Straka. “He looks good and his heartbeat sounded fantastic.”

Dr. Straka added that all of the elk underwent extensive health and disease testing in Kentucky before being brought to Missouri.

The elk will remain in the holding pens at Peck Ranch for up to several weeks as they acclimate to the area and MDC staff continue to monitor them. Some cows will begin dropping calves while in the holding pens.

“We’ve divided the pregnant cows into small groups in various pens to give them privacy and reduce their stress,” said Dr. Straka.

“Those that do not calve before being released from the holding pens will seek out secluded spots to give birth. Most calves should be born by mid-June. This year’s group of 40 elk will add to the approximately 70 already living in the restoration zone.

We expect several dozen new calves this spring from established elk, plus more calves from this year’s group.”

The Missouri restoration of this once-native species began with MDC bringing elk from Kentucky in May 2011 and again in May 2012 to the Department’s elk restoration zone covering 221,000 acres in parts of Shannon, Carter, and Reynolds counties.

Meet newborn bull calf nicknamed Plus-1. He was born in the trailer May 21 on the way from Kentucky to Missouri for 2013 elk restoration efforts.

MDC’s Jake Rieken, who made the trip west with the elk after spending the past four months caring for them in Kentucky, holds the newborn bull calf nicknamed Plus-1, which was born in the trailer on the way to Missouri. MDC State Wildlife Veterinarian Kelly Straka checks his heartbeat. “He looks good and his heartbeat sounded fantastic,” she said. Photo credit: MDC.

This year, MDC again worked with Kentucky and Virginia state wildlife agencies to trap elk in January from the Appalachian Mountains of southeastern Kentucky. The effort resulted in 51 elk being trapped with Missouri getting 39, plus the newborn calf. Virginia will receive the remaining elk for its restoration effort.

As done in the previ-

ous two years of trapping, Missouri-bound elk received radio collars right before their trip west as part of a research project between MDC and the University of Missouri. The collars help track movement patterns and preferred habitat. The research project is funded by Federal Aid from the Wildlife Restoration Program administered through the U.S. Fish

agency news - department of conservation

These were among 40 elk from Kentucky released into holding pens at MDC’s Peck Ranch Conservation area in May 2013. Photo credit: MDC.

and Wildlife Service.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation helped fund the 2013 capture and care of the elk in Kentucky. RMEF also donated materials and volunteer help at both Kentucky and Missouri holding facilities.

“This restoration effort is another conservation legacy,

for us and for future generations, that could not have been possible without the enormous help and support from our staff and many conservation partners including The Nature Conservancy, National Park Service, LADD Foundation and Forest Service,” said MDC Deputy Director Tom Draper.

“On behalf of MDC leadership,” Draper continued, “we continue to be impressed with the passion, talent and dedication of MDC staff, and thankful for their ongoing hard work on this project.

We are also grateful to the states of Kentucky and Virginia for their partnerships in elk restoration. We also thank the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Safari Club International, Big Game Hunters Foundation and Bass Pro Shops for their generous funding and support of this project. We are grateful to the many local landowners who have shown their support by creating elk habitat on their nearby properties, and to the communities of Eminence, Winona, Ellington

and Van Buren, which have embraced the effort. We are also appreciative of The University of Missouri and the University of Kentucky for providing research support for the project.”

As in the past two years of elk restoration efforts, the 12,000-acre Refuge Area at Peck Ranch, where elk tend to congregate, is closed into July as new elk acclimate and cows give birth. MDC will open the area to elk driving tours later this summer.

For more information on elk restoration in Missouri, visit www.mdc.mo.gov.

Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC

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agency news - department of conservation

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Five Year Missouri Poaching Case Against 46 Ends in Federal Court

he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently wrapped up a major special investigation involving 46 individuals that began in 2008. Operation “Pulling Wool” came to a close on April 25 with a final conviction in Federal Court.

The last defendant charged in the operation was found guilty by a United States Magistrate in Cape Girardeau.

All 46 defendants were found guilty by trial or plea in Federal Court for hunting deer with the aid of dogs on U.S. Forest Service property. The defendants paid a total of $67,425 in fines to the federal court for their actions.

Another six defendants were charged with nine total violations in state court in Ripley County. These defendants paid a total of $1,909 in fines and court costs.

The combined fines and costs paid by the defendants was $69,334. Additionally, hunting privileges of all the defendants were revoked for periods of one to three years.

“These convictions are a direct result of our mission to protect the fish, forests and wildlife of Missouri,” said Gary Cravens, MDC Protection Regional Supervi2 4

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sor for Ozark Region. “Missouri citizens have asked us to take on this mission, and putting a stop to illegal poaching activities, like deer dogging, helps to ensure Missouri remains a great place to hunt ethically.”

The investigation began in the fall of 2008, when the MDC’s special investigation unit set up an operation targeting illegal poaching activity that was occurring on the Mark Twain National Forest in Ripley County.

MDC joined with the USFWS and the US Attorney’s office in St. Louis on operation “Pulling Wool” to stop the deer dogging activity. Deer dogging is illegal and is commonly found in Missouri’s Ozark country in the south-central part of the state. The practice includes using dogs to run deer toward shooters strategically set up at known deer crossings.

These shooters, also known as poachers, use marine band and CB radios to communicate with each other concerning the whereabouts of the dogs and any deer they are chasing.

Coupled with the use of automobiles and all-terrain vehicles, deer dogging is an effective and extremely dangerous activity during Missouri’s fall firearms deer hunting seasons.

“Using dogs to hunt whitetails is an illegal and dangerous activity, which works against the majority of Missourians’ efforts to continue traditions of ethical hunting that are celebrated in our state,” said Cravens.

Cravens said most hunters in Missouri are ethical, law abiding citizens, who care deeply about conserving the state’s wildlife resources.

One effective way citizens can assist MDC in stopping poaching activities is by

reporting poaching activities to the state’s Operation Game Thief (OGT) hotline. The toll-free number is 1-800-392-1111 and is staffed 24-hours a day. Callers may remain anonymous, and may ask to be considered for a reward, ranging from $50 to $1,000. More information about OGT can be found at www.mdc. mo.gov.

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Candice Davis Media Specialist, MDC (Southeast and Ozark Regions)

Honorariums Memorials In memory of Rose Swadley Evelyn Schallon ~ Ballwin In honor of Becky Plattner’s performance as an MDC Commissioner – connecting conservation and agriculture.

Dave Murphy ~ Columbia In honor of Don Johnson’s exemplary service as an MDC Commissioner Dave Murphy ~ Columbia

agency news - department of conservation

Get Your Hunter Ed Certification Early

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Revised curriculum enhances convenience and emphasizes mentorship and hands-on training

f you are a new hunter, or if you plan to mentor a novice hunter this fall, now is the time to take care of your hunter-education certification requirements. Hunters who were born on or after Jan. 31, 1967, and are 16 or older must successfully complete an approved hunter education course to qualify to buy firearms hunting permits. Some mentors also are required to be hunter-education certified. Details about this and other exceptions to the mandatory huntereducation rule are listed on page 2 of the 2013 Summary of Missouri Hunting and Trapping Regulations, also available from permit vendors or at www.mdc. mo.gov/node/11416.

Hunter education classes fill up quickly as hunting seasons approach. Enroll-

ing early will ensure against the disappointment of not getting into a class and not getting to hunt.

Hunter education class participants can look forward to a new experience this year. The curriculum has been revised to enhance student convenience and emphasize mentorship and hands-on training. Unlike the old, 10-hour classroom program, the new, more flexible version is divided into two parts.

Step 1 – Acquire the necessary knowledge about hunting equipment, safety, and ethics. Participants can do this any of three ways: • A convenient and fun online course that provides information in written form, augmented with illustrations, graphs, audio, videos, and interactive animation, or • By calling or visiting

one of the Conservation Department regional offices, and complete the course at your own pace, or • Register and attend a 4-hour instructor-led classroom session.

Step 2 – After completing Step 1, obtain your certification by attending a four-hour skills session that fits your schedule. These

tor-led, hands-on exercises designed to help students put their knowledge into practice. After the session, students take a 35-question multiple-choice exam.

Don’t wait. Hunting season is closer than you think!

sessions consist of instruc-

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Union Pacific Railroad Asks Drivers to Use Caution at Railroad Crossings While Traveling

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nion Pacific Railroad reminds drivers to use caution at railroad crossings while traveling in their vehicles this summer.

“It can take a mile or more for a train to stop, and, by the time a locomotive engineer sees a vehicle on a crossing, it is too late to stop,” said Dale Bray, Union Pacific director – public safety.

Union Pacific’s UP CARES (Union Pacific Crossing Accident Reduction Education

and Safety) initiative promotes railroad grade crossing, pedestrian and driver safety through a variety of outreach channels: Grade crossing education and enforcement, during which motorists violating rail crossing signage and laws are educated about the dangers of such actions.

Related “positive enforcement” initiatives reward drivers who operate safely at grade crossings.

Safety trains, hosting local law enforcement, media and public officials and providing them the opportunity to ride in the locomotive cab and see traffic violations from a locomotive engi-

neer’s point of view. This also allows Union Pacific to connect with community leaders and help them better understand the railroad’s safety focus.

Communication blitzes, which educate the public via community events, media outreach and paid advertising. Media outreach coincides with safety trains in UP communities.

For more information visit UnionPacificCares.com.

Union Pacific Railroad Reminds Hunters Not To Be Drawn To Railroad Property

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nion Pacific Railroad urges hunters to resist the temptation to hunt on railroad property this season. Wildlife will migrate and feed along the edges of freshly harvested fields, making these areas prime hunting spots. With many fields adjacent to Union Pacific tracks, hunters find it very tempting to hunt on or near the tracks.

“Too many people have been injured or killed trespassing on railroad property over the years. As part of our UP CARES initiative, we want to remind hunters that walking on or near railroad tracks is extremely dangerous because you never know when a train will come

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along,” said Robert Morrison, Union Pacific Chief of Police.

“It can take a mile or more to stop a train, and, by the time a locomotive engineer sees you on the track, it is too late to stop,” said Dale Bray, Union Pacific director – public safety.

“Locomotives and rail cars overhang the tracks by at least three feet on either side of the rail. If you are too close to the tracks, you can be hit by the locomotive or a rail car,” added Bray.

Union Pacific is committed to public safety through various outreach channels such as community events, media, Union Pacific Railroad police, employee resource groups and Operation

Lifesaver. The UP CARES (Union Pacific Crossing Accident Reduction Education and Safety) public safety initiative brings together communities in a collaborative and caring effort to promote railroad grade crossing and pedestrian safety.

UP CARES activities include: • Grade crossing enforcement with local, county and state law enforcement agencies; • Safety trains that provide local officials a firsthand look at what locomotive engineers see daily while they operate trains through a community and • Communication blitzes that educate the community at events or media outreach.

Hunters are not the only ones drawn to railroad tracks – hikers, bikers, fishermen and snowmobilers are, as well.

Anyone choosing to walk on or near railroad tracks could face a tragic consequence. Last year, 411 people died and 361 were injured while trespassing on railroad property throughout the United States according to the Federal Railroad Administration.

People who enter railroad property can be arrested for violating trespassing laws.

They could serve jail time and/or have to pay a fine.

Do not become a statistic; stay away from railroad tracks during this hunting season.

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

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

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Open Space Council for the St. Louis Region Honors Conservation Leaders

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he Open Space Council for the St. Louis Region an affiliate of the Conservation Federation of Missouri honored three parties at its 48th Annual Meeting held on May 31st at the Hilton Frontenac for their land and water conservation work.

Lifetime Open Space Honor: Leo and Kay Drey Throughout their lives, Leo and Kay Drey have followed their principles and have made the world a better, safer place as a result. Leo has spent decades protecting trees, endangered species and rivers. He established individual-tree selection as a sustainable forestry management practice that has been adopted nationally. He and Kay have preserved parks, wetlands and natural areas. Kay has worked relentlessly to force the nuclear power industry to be more responsible and safer. Their legacy will live on not just through their work and contributions but also through the conservation and environmental organizations they have helped form and support including the Open Space Council. They are truly a living legacy!

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Left to Right: Open Space Council’s Founders, Kay and Leo Drey, with Ron Coleman, Open Space Council’s Executive Director. Photo credit: Open Space Council.

The Open Space Council Land Conservancy Award 2013 Recipient: Great Rivers Greenway Each year The Open Space Council (OSC) recognizes an individual or organization for outstanding contributions to enhancing, conserving or sustaining our region’s open space.

This year, OSC was pleased to honor Great Rivers Greenway (GRG) for their contribution to the region’s open space legacy.

Great Rivers Greenway’s mission to create a clean, green and connected region has continued to make the St. Louis Region a better place to live. Through this work, Great Rivers Greenway strives to build a vi-

The 2013 Land Conservancy award was presented to Todd Antoine of the Great Rivers Greenway by Steve Nagle (Vice President). Photo credit: Open Space Council.

brant open space legacy for future generations. Todd Antoine, Deputy Director

of Planning accepted the award for GRG.

The William C. Schock Clean Water Conservancy Award 2013 Recipient: The Nature Conservancy The annual Clean Water Conservancy Award is named after the late William C. Schock, who was a prominent St. Louis attorney and member of the board of directors of The Open Space Council. Schock is well known for his work in founding Operation Clean Stream, a project created 46 years ago to reverse the degradation of the Lower Meramec River. We are pleased to honor The Nature Conservancy (TNC) for their dedicated water conservation, environmental initiatives and sound science associated with keeping our rivers and streams healthy. Doug Ladd, Senior Scientist accepted the award for TNC.

The 2013 William C. Schock award was presented by Bruce Litzsinger (Board Member) to Doug Ladd of The Nature Conservancy. Photo credit: Open Space Council.

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

MIS S OURI

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A Legacy of Conservation

T

he Tiger Hotel holds a special place in the hearts of Conservation Federation of Missouri members. Seventy-eight years ago this September, CFM was formed in this downtown Columbia landmark, and a new era in our state’s conservation leadership dawned. Since then, CFM has witnessed the formation of Missouri’s Conservation Commission, the creation of designated funding for both the Department of Conservation and for our state’s parks and has been involved in these and nearly every other major outdoor initiative impacting our state and its citizens.

On May 2, 2013, Conservation Federation members once again packed into the Tiger Hotel to celebrate yet another milestone for our organization as we gathered to bid farewell to (and roast) CFM Executive Director, Dave Murphy.

The roast was emceed by Bass Pro Shops’ Director

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Photo credits: Debra Lee.

of Conservation, Martin MacDonald, and could not have been more special as Governor Jay Nixon, Johnny Morris, a handful of other close friends and even his own daughters participated in a friendly telling of tales at Dave’s expense.

True to his altruistic commitment to CFM’s mission, Dave’s wishes were that all proceeds from this roast be

reserved for the benefit of CFM in lieu of retirement gifts for him personally.

Therefore, an endowment initiative was established to help ensure the secure financial future of CFM and provide a lasting tribute in honor of Dave’s efforts and of so many previous CFM staff and volunteer leaders. In addition to a truly special evening of fellow-

ship for many in the CFM family, initial contributions and pledges raised were tremendous, including a handwritten note from Johnny Morris on the back of the event program offering a multi-year pledge totaling $100,000 in honor of Dave and the work of CFM! Dave’s vision for CFM’s role as “The Voice For Missouri Outdoors”

remains unchanged — the perpetuation of excellence in conservation. His desire to preserve the rich history of Missouri’s outdoor heritage and conservation legacy, maintain its relevancy amid the challenges facing our states natural resources today and to set the stage for the future of resource protection for all Missourians lives on. The David W. Murphy “Tenth Legion” Endowment is dedicated to the health and

viability of the Conservation Federation of Missouri and its programs and was created with this in mind.

So why, you might ask, the Tenth Legion Endowment? Just as the Roman Tenth Legion’s unrelenting drive for sustained excellence transformed much of the known world for centuries, the Conservation Federation of Missouri has been blessed with many remarkable and driven leaders who, over the past

three-quarters of a century have helped to set in place a number of vital statewide programs with a real and positive impact on Missouri’s citizens, its natural resources and those who manage them.

For those who would like more information regarding the Tenth Legion Endowment or who wish to contribute to this important new initiative and its focus on the vitality of CFM, please contact the CFM

office at (800) 575-2322 or visit our website at www. confedmo.org.

“What can we do today to prepare for tomorrow?

What is our part? What will be our legacy? The good news is, it is not too late to make a difference.

The great news is, we get to choose what is right for each of us!”

MIS S OURI

— Dave Murphy

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Join us for the 7th Annual

Pull For Conservation Classic!

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Don’t miss this year’s pre-shoot dinner on Friday, August 9 at Columbia Bass Pro Shops.

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