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The Mark Twain Lake community rolls out the red carpet for hunters who use wheelchairs.
MONROE CITY, Mo. -- Mobility-impaired hunters can get help realizing their turkey-hunting dreams through the annual Mark Twain Lake Turkey Hunt for the Physically Challenged.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which owns and manages Mark Twain Lake, works with local community groups to make the hunt May 4 and 5 at Indian Creek Recreation Area a memorable experience. Twenty physically challenged hunters get VIP service normally associated with expensive guided hunts.
Participants supply their own guns and ammunition, 20 gauge or larger. A limited number of guides are available, but participants are encouraged to bring their own helpers.
To qualify, applicants must be permanently disabled (nonambulatory or semiambulatory), have valid hunter safety certification cards and valid spring turkey hunting permits.
For application materials, contact the Corps of Engineers, Mark Twain Lake, Rt. 2, Box 20A, Monroe City, MO 63456, 573/735-4097. Applications must be received by April 1. Reservations will be awarded by random drawing April 5.
- Jim Low -
The Missouri Department works to improve access to its facilities and programs.
JEFFERSON CITY -- In an ideal world there would be no barriers to prevent persons with disabilities from participating in outdoor recreation. The Missouri Department of Conservation is working to assure its facilities come as close as possible to ideal for persons with disabilities.
Since 1992 the agency has dedicated at least $500,000 each year to capital improvement projects to make conservation lands, buildings and programs disabled accessible. Judging by reports on Conservation Department capital improvement projects, the agency has spared no concrete to remove barriers. Improvements to Conservation Department facilities include:
--construction of fishing platforms at Montauk and Roaring River state parks and boat loading platforms at Noren Access, Cooper Creek Access, Ralph Cox Access, Seven Island Access and J.N. "Turkey" Kearn Memorial Wildlife Area.
--installation of automatic door openers at Conservation Nature Centers in Jefferson City, Kansas City, St. Louis and Springfield.
--construction of accessible trails at O'Fallon Park Lake, Boathouse Lake, South Lake, Wilmore Park
Most of these projects consist of adapting existing facilities to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. Meanwhile, all new Conservation Department facilities are being designed with disabled users' needs in mind.
Besides working to remove physical barriers, Conservation Department offers its award-winning magazine, Missouri Conservationist, on audio tape, The Missouri Outdoors television series is closed-captioned, and close-captioned versions of Conservation Department video tapes are provided to libraries statewide. Conservation nature centers have sign-language interpreters for some programs and offer programs in multisensory formats.
Hunters with special needs can obtain special-use permits to reduce regulation barriers to their sports. Special hunts further address their needs. Anglers with disabilities can take advantage of special fishing programs.
If you would like more information on the Conservation Department's disabled accessible facilities contact: Human Resources Division, Missouri Department of Conservation, PO Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180. Or phone 573/751-4115.
The Conservation Department also has a whole section of its Web site devoted to accessibility. Visit www.conservation.state.mo.us/ and click on keyword "Accessibility."
- Arleasha Mays -
Periodic checks of attitudes and behaviors ensure that conservation programs meet Missourians' wants and needs.
JEFFERSON CITY -- A recent survey reveals that six in 10 Missourians consider themselves environmentalists. Eight out of 10 favor restoring animals that once lived in Missouri. And while only 25 percent of Missourians consider themselves hunters, a majority of Show-Me State residents approve of the activity.
These are among the findings of the Conservation Monitor survey conducted by the Gallup Organization for the Missouri Department of Conservation in May 2000. The Gallup organization, headquartered in Princeton, N.J., conducts the Conservation Monitor opinion survey periodically to allow the Conservation Department to track public attitudes on conservation issues. The most recent survey involved telephone interviews with 880 Missourians.
The number of Missourians who said they consider themselves environmentalists was down from 1997, when the previous Conservation Monitor survey was conducted. That year, seven out of 10 participants accepted the label. The number who consider themselves "strong environmentalists" remained unchanged at 48 percent.
Respondents were less likely to believe that the state's forest acreage is shrinking than they were in previous years, and they were less likely to consider prairie restoration important. The percentage of respondents who opposed draining wetlands held steady at 24 percent.
Eighty-eight percent of respondents said they approve of hunting for food. Fifty-eight percent expressed approval of hunting as a way of experiencing Missouri traditions and folk ways. Fifty-six percent said they approved of hunting for the outdoor experiences it provides, and 55 percent said they approved of hunting to be with friends.
Forty-three percent of respondents thought part of the Conservation Department's funding came from the Missouri General Assembly. In fact, the Conservation Department receives no general revenue money, and hasn't since 1976. However, a majority knew that the Conservation Department gets money from a state sales tax and from the sale of hunting and fishing permits. Forty-eight percent said they knew that the Conservation Department receives funding from federal excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment.
Survey respondents came from all 115 of Missouri's counties. Twenty-five percent lived in rural areas. Another 21 percent came from urban areas, and the remaining 54 percent lived in suburbs or small towns. The sample was evenly divided between men and women. Eighty-nine percent were Caucasian, 6 percent were African American, 4 percent were "other." All were 18 or older.
Survey results were evaluated at a 95 percent confidence level, where the maximum expected error was 3.3 percent. Periodic polling allows the Conservation Department to track changes in attitudes toward long-term issues and find out how Missourians feel about emerging issues.
"The Conservation Monitor is extremely important to our agency," says Conservation Department Public Involvement Coordinator David Thorne," because it helps us respond to the needs and wants of the folks who pay the bills. We get a lot of valuable information of this kind directly from people through phone calls, letters and e-mails and at public meetings. But the majority of Missourians never contact us, and we need to know what they think, too. We can't expect people to support a conservation program that doesn't reflect their expectations and desires."
Gallup is the world's leading public opinion survey organization. It has 65 years of experience and more than 3,000 research, consulting and training professionals to ensure statistically valid and significant survey results.
A summary of 2000 Conservation Monitor survey results is available from Policy Coordination Section, Missouri Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180.
- Jim Low -
Conservation commissioners say his leadership will be missed.
JEFFERSON CITY - Conservation Department Director Jerry M. Conley announced today that he plans to retire in July. His retirement culminates a 36-year career with state conservation agencies, 25 years of which were spent as director. His retirement plans include a return to Idaho, where he and his wife, Janet, have one grandchild, with another expected in April.
Far from hanging up his fishing rod, Conley said he is looking forward to spending time teaching his grandchildren about the pleasures of exploring nature. "Janet and I said when I first took the job as director that I would be here about five years," Conley said. "I think I'm leaving the agency in excellent shape, as far as both programs and financial management. The key has been hiring good people and letting them do their jobs."
Conservation Commission Chairman Anita Gorman, Kansas City, said she has accepted Conley's announcement, "with regret and great gratitude. He has done a fine job leading the department, which continues to be one of the best-respected conservation agencies in the nation."
John Powell, Rolla, was Conservation Commission Chairman in 1996 when Jerry Conley was hired to be the Missouri Conservation Department director. Conley had been head of Idaho's fish and game agency for 15 years. Powell said the Missouri Commission was looking for someone with a successful track record to replace former director, Jerry J. Presley, who also retired.
"We looked at lots of excellent candidates," recalled Powell. "But Conley always rose to the top. He had very impressive credentials and came highly recommended by a variety of sources. I think he has done an outstanding job as director."
Ron Stites, Kansas City, and Randy Herzog, St. Joseph, along with Mrs. Gorman, also were Commission members when Conley was selected to be the Conservation Department director.
Conley says as director he was able to build on the successes of the past while moving the agency forward. He moved many staff positions to the field to localize agency direction. He established regional coordination teams to make sure staff from all divisions set mutual goals and worked together to accomplish them. He also created a new division, Private Land Services, to work one-on-one with landowners interested in improving their property for conservation. More than 6,300 landowners have received help from PLS staff, improving 300,000 acres.
His priorities for staff included leadership training, an emphasis on customer service, and forging partnerships with outside groups. During his tenure as director, the agency achieved many milestones:
--Waterfowl populations soared to their highest levels since the 1980s as a result of Missouri's participation in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, and the addition of 25,000 acres of wetlands to the state.
--Major wetland acquisitions included floodplain areas of the Missouri River damaged in the floods of 1993 and 1995, and expansion of the Four Rivers and B.K. Leach conservation areas.
--Deer and turkey seasons were lengthened and liberalized. The first 3-week turkey season in Missouri's history was held in 1998.
--Youth-only hunts for deer and turkey were established in 2001 to introduce kids to the hunting heritage.
--An osprey restoration program resulted in the first successful osprey nesting in Missouri since DDT nearly wiped out populations 40 years ago.
--The Stream Team program grew to more than 1,800 teams, deployed statewide to adopt streams and advocate for their health.
--An Urban Deer Policy was adopted to help cities deal with deer population problems.
--The Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation was established as a non-profit organization with the goal of supporting forestry, fish and wildlife conservation programs in Missouri.
--Columbia Bottom, a 4,468-acre parcel of land adjoining the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, was purchased for $9.3 million. It is being developed with hiking and biking trails, wetland boardwalks, wildlife viewing areas, a river access and viewing platform. It is expected to attract 100,000 visitors per year during the Lewis & Clark bicentennial celebration.
--The Discovery Center was built in Kansas City. Unique in conception, the Discovery Center houses hands-on workshops for children and families, a teacher resource center, and offices for departments of Conservation and Natural Resources staff. More than half of the funds for the $8 million environmentally friendly facility was raised from private donations.
The accomplishments were an agency-wide effort, but Vice-Chairman of the Commission, Howard Wood of Bonne Terre, credits Conley with the vision and persistence to accomplish long term goals. "Jerry's legacy won't end when he retires. His mark will be on the Department for years to come as a positive reminder of his abilities as a leader."
Commissioner Cynthia Metcalfe, St. Louis, said she is disappointed not to be serving longer with Conley as director. She was appointed to the four-person commission less than a year ago. "I admire Jerry's leadership very much. He has put the agency on a sound teamwork footing to move into the future."
The next step for the Commission, Metcalfe said, is to get together to outline the qualities they will look for in the next director in order for the Commission to operate properly and conservation in Missouri to continue to thrive.
Steve Bradford, Cape Girardeau, joined the Commission at the same time as Metcalfe. "In the short time Jerry and I have worked together, my respect for his commitment to protecting Missouri's natural resources, and the integrity and personal value system he brought to the job has greatly impressed me," Bradford said. "I understand his desire to spend more time with his family, but his loss to the Department will create a void for some time to come."
Bradford said the challenges that face the agency in the future include finding a leader who will carry forward the positive organizational changes Conley initiated.
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NWTF provides $12,000 for equipment and special law enforcement operations
SULLIVAN, Mo. -- Illegal turkey hunting, already a chancy proposition for game law violators, is about to get even riskier. Angered by outlaws who kill turkeys illegally, the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) has put up a bundle of cash to help the Missouri Department of Conservation catch turkey poachers.
Illegal turkey hunting is a chronic problem, particularly in the southern half of Missouri. Special operations in recent years have dramatically increased the number of arrests for turkey hunting violations. Now the NWTF has thrown the weight of its 400,000 members behind the effort.
The NWTF recently announced it will raise the stakes for turkey poachers with $12,000 in matching money to help the Conservation Department's Protection Division target turkey violations. Most of the effort will focus on the area south of the Missouri River, where poaching before and during the spring hunting season is a special problem.
Terry Roberson, Ozark Region Protection Field Chief for the Conservation Department, said the matching money will pay for specialized equipment and help defray the costs of special operations. He said the grant is just a small part of the giant role the NWTF plays in wild turkey conservation.
"The Federation has been a huge help in bringing the wild turkey back to Missouri and ensuring good management," said Roberson. "They have underwritten restoration work, research and enforcement programs, not to mention the heavy involvement of the Turkey Federation's 14,000 Missouri members in promoting hunting ethics through hunter education classes and their J.A.K.E.S program. Our continued partnership with the NWTF will reap the benefits of a healthy turkey flock and safe, ethical hunters in Missouri."
Roberson noted that the NWTF matching grant also will help the Conservation Department maintain an aggressive wildlife law enforcement program during a period when sales tax revenue shortfalls are requiring cutbacks in many state programs.
- Jim Low -
Lure of paddlefish snagging will draw hundreds to Missouri impoundments
JEFFERSON CITY --With small eyes that peer over a two-foot long spoonbill snout at one end and a thresher shark's tail at the other end, it's unlikely many would describe the paddlefish as attractive. But for hundreds of Missouri anglers there is nothing more beautiful than the sight of a seven-foot long, 100-plus pound paddlefish at the end of a snagline.
The paddlefish is a sort of living fossil. More closely related to sharks than to Missouri's other fish, it has a skeleton of cartilage. Its food consists of tiny aquatic plants and animals. Paddlefish collect these by swimming around with their mouths open and filtering water though their gills. They make the most of this diet, reaching weights of more than 100 pounds.
The paddlefish snagging season runs from March 15 through April 30. The daily limit is two. In most waters, paddlefish must be released immediately if they measure less than 24 inches from eye to fork of tail. The minimum length limit is 34 inches on Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake and Truman Lake and their tributaries. The Osage River between Bagnell Dam and the U.S. Highway 54 bridge is closed to snagging, snaring and grabbing from March 15 through April 30.
Anglers must stop snagging, snaring or grabbing for any species of fish after taking a daily limit of two paddlefish on Truman Lake and Lake of the Ozarks and their tributaries and on the Osage River below Highway 54.
Full details of paddlefish regulations are listed in the 2002 Summary of Fishing Regulations, which is available free wherever fishing permits are sold.
The challenge of hauling in a large fish is just part of the thrill of paddlefish snagging. Paddlefish aren't interested in any kind of lure or bait that can be put on a hook. Consequently, anglers must snag the big fish by randomly jerking lines with treble hooks in the water. Snagging is only effective when paddlefish are concentrated in a few areas. This occurs in the spring, when the fish move upstream in response to their spawning urge.
Even though paddlefish still obey their urge to spawn, dams, pollution and habitat destruction on the Osage River now prevent successful spawning. Missouri's paddlefish population depends on stocking by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). MDC spawns paddlefish artificially at Blind Pony Hatchery near Sweet Springs.
- Arleasha Mays -
Hunters can enjoy two months of light goose hunting with 2001 MBHP
JEFFERSON CITY --Hunters are encouraged to put their Missouri Migratory Bird Hunting Permits (MBHP) to good use by hunting snow, blue and Ross's geese through April 30.
A MBHP is all that is needed to hunt light geese under regulations set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This is the fourth year that federal officials have issued a conservation order to increase light goose harvests. The action is designed to stop ecological damage to the birds nesting grounds around Hudson's Bay in Canada.
North American light goose numbers have grown so large in recent years that their nesting habitat around Hudson Bay no longer can support them. Wildlife biologists say the animals literally are eating themselves out of a habitat. Parts of the area have been so heavily overgrazed that biologists believe those areas likely will not recover in our lifetime. Reductions in snow, blue and Ross' geese population are needed to prevent further damage to the nesting grounds.
While the conservation order is in effect there are no daily or bag limits on light geese. Hunters may use unplugged shotgun and electronic calls to aid their hunting efforts.
To help hunters locate snow goose concentrations, the Missouri Department of Conservation provides weekly snow goose reports at www.conservation.state.mo.us/hunt/wtrfowl/weekly-snow/.
- Arleasha Mays -
Conservation Department shares history and tips to halt spread of virus, which does not affect humans
JEFFERSON CITY --Largemouth Bass Virus (LMBV) is spreading across the United States and the Missouri Department of Conservation reports that it is now spreading through Missouri's waters. LMBV was first detected in Missouri in 1999 at Table Rock Lake, according to Fisheries Division Administrator Norm Stucky. As of 2001, the virus has been documented in Wappapello Lake, Lake Springfield, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, Lake of the Ozarks, Bull Shoals Lake, and Norfork Lake.
The Department hopes to raise awareness about the virus to prevent the disease from circulating. "Anglers are our best chance to reduce the spread of LMBV in Missouri's waters," said Stucky. "They are also our best source for getting word out to prevent the spread of LMBV and to remind other anglers that bass are safe to eat."
Several Missouri lakes were tested for the virus in 1999 and 2000 as part of the National Wild Fish Health Survey and other routine disease studies. LMBV was not found outside of Table Rock until the 2001 survey. "Each year we participate in the survey with other state and federal agencies to monitor fish diseases in the wild," said Stucky. The Conservation Department provides funding for LMBV research at Auburn University and supplies samples as part of the management of Missouri's fish resources.
LMBV may have entered Missouri through contaminated live wells of boats or the illegal stocking of infected fish. "Most likely, misguided people may have inadvertently hauled bass from an affected area outside Missouri into Table Rock Lake," said Stucky. Believed to have originated in the Southeastern United States, the virus affects only cold-blooded animals.
"LMBV is in a family of viruses not known to cause disease in humans or other mammals," said John Grizzle, Head LMBV Researcher at Auburn University. The virus does cause disease in big largemouth bass, although other fish in the bass family such as spotted bass and smallmouth bass can carry LMBV.
The good news is that bass testing positive for the LMBV virus may not get LMBV disease. "Bass in lakes with positive tests for LMBV may not develop the disease," said Scott Syska, Fish Pathologist. "Likewise, fish that sicken or die may not be dying from LMBV disease or test positive for the virus--even if other fish in the lake are known to have LMBV." To date, bass fish kills associated with LMBV have only occurred in large lakes. It is unknown why LMBV will cause kills in some lakes and not others. It is possible that LMBV makes fish more susceptible to stress or other diseases and parasites.
It is also unknown how this virus kills fish. "So far, the effects of the virus on bass appear to be short term, we see the population recover in two to three years. We also don't see multiple kills from the virus," said Stucky. For example, some lakes with LMBV have had a LMBV-related kill, but the kill has not happened again. Because the relationship between the virus and bass is difficult to study, the long term affects of LMBV are unknown.
"For the short term, the Conservation Department does not foresee LMBV dramatically impacting our largemouth bass fisheries in Missouri," said Fisheries Research Supervisor Ron Dent. Since adequate numbers of bass are produced naturally in the wild, the Conservation Department sees no need to change fishing regulations or to begin stocking bass to replace those lost to LMBV or other diseases.
The signs of LMBV disease include otherwise healthy-looking, big bass floundering at the waters surface and swimming poorly. The only sign of LMBV inside bass is inflammation or scabs inside the swimbladder. The virus itself poses no problem to people eating fish.
Even though no major kill occurred, poor fishing at Lake of the Ozarks during the 2001 summer had many anglers concerned. "Unfortunately, when a virus or other parasite impacts a fishery in a body of water the size of the Lake of the Ozarks, all that can be done is to let it run its course," said Stucky.
Bass fishing has improved considerably during the winter of 2001. Scientists believe bass are most affected by LMBV during warm weather.
Anglers should do their best to reduce stressing bass as much as possible during hot weather by handling fish as little as possible and return them to the water quickly.
The Conservation Department recommends that all fishing gear and boats be thoroughly cleaned and allowed to dry between fishing trips. A diluted chlorine bleach solution helps to kill diseases and parasites of all types.
After bleaching, thoroughly, rinse gear and boat to reduce chlorine damage to equipment and the risk of chlorine poisoning of fish in the live wells.
If you notice fish dying or acting strangely, or see evidence of chemical pollution, please contact the Missouri Department of Conservation at 573/751-4115.
- Stephanie Ramsey Westbrook -
Weekend openings always increase attendance at Missouri's four trout parks.
BENNETT SPRING -- Want to catch a rainbow? Gather your fishing gear and visit one of Missouri's four trout parks March 1. Approximately 29,000 rainbow and brown trout will be available for pursuit on the opening day of the trout park fishing season.
Luring in fish will take both luck and skill. Trout can be cagey, and the competition for fish is expected to be keen with the season opener occurring on a Friday. The Missouri Department of Conservation estimates that 9,700 anglers will take advantage of this year's first opportunity to enjoy catch-and-keep fishing at the trout parks.
The number of trout stocked each day depends on attendance estimates. The stocking rate for opening day will be the same as in years past, three per expected angler. The Conservation Department hatchery at Bennett Spring State Park west of Lebanon will stock 9,000 trout if the weather forecast for March 1 is reasonably good. Fish stocked for opening day at Bennett Spring will include approximately 100 "lunkers" --- fish weighing three to five pounds.
Montauk State Park, southeast of Licking, expects to stock approximately 7,200 fish, with 50 lunkers among them. A stocking of 5,400 fish is expected at Maramec Spring Park southeast of St. James, with 50 lunkers. About 100 lunkers will be among the 7,600 trout that Conservation Department hatchery workers expect to stock at Roaring River State Park for opening day.
A carnival atmosphere permeates the four trout parks on opening day as thousands of anglers and thousands more spectators revel in their escape from cabin fever. Adding to the excitement are contests for the first and heaviest fish and the first and heaviest stringers. Some area chambers of commerce get into the act, sponsoring prizes in conjunction with the event.
The war in Afghanistan will break a decades-old tradition at Roaring River. For the past three-and-a-half decades the Missouri Secretary of State has fired the opening pistol at the park. Secretary of State Matt Blunt will not attend the opener this year because he is on active duty in the U.S. Navy. Former state senator and Cassville resident Emory Melton has the honor of firing the opening pistol this year.
Structural improvements also are among the changes anglers will notice at Roaring River State Park. The departments of Conservation and Natural Resources recently completed a $541,000 project to repair the stream bank and bridge adjacent to the hatchery and build disabled-accessible sidewalks along the stream.
All anglers must buy daily trout tags to fish in the parks. The tags, sold only in the parks, cost $3 for adults and $2 for children under age 16. Missouri anglers aged 16 to 65 and nonresidents also need valid fishing permits to cast lines in the trout parks. Since current fishing permits expire Feb. 28, anglers are advised to purchase permits before March 1 to avoid waiting in long lines for new permits at the trout parks.
Fishing permits are available at Conservation Department service centers and nature centers and from private vendors throughout the state. Anglers may pursue trout with a Daily Fishing Permit ($5), a Resident Fishing Permit ($11) or a $19 Resident Hunting and Fishing permit. Annual Nonresident Fishing Permits cost $35. Trout anglers fishing outside the four trout parks also need a $7 Trout Permit if they plan to keep any trout.
The daily limit at the parks is five trout. Due to limitations on hatchery production, the Conservation Department is asking anglers to voluntarily limit their catch to four fish.
Each trout park has unique regulations regarding lure restrictions and zones. Details of these regulations are provided in leaflets at each park. Anglers should pick up one of these leaflets and familiarize themselves with fishing zones and bait restrictions before fishing.
- Arleasha Mays -
Hatcheries will reduce stocking rates later in the season, but the number of trout that anglers find on opening day will be unaffected.
JEFFERSON CITY -- Anglers will find the usual bounty of fish at Missouri's four trout parks when catch-and-keep fishing season opens March 1. But without increased rainfall, the outlook for the rest of the season won't be as bright.
Big crowds are expected at Missouri's four trout parks for the opening of the catch-and-keep season March 1. "We expect a lot of people with the opener on Friday," said Kevin Richards, fisheries field operations chief for the Missouri Department of Conservation. "We are stocking trout parks at higher levels for the opener than for the regular season to make sure anglers enjoy a great start to the catch-and-keep season."
Richards said trout production has been affected by the drought that has plagued the Ozarks for the last two and a half years. All five of the Conservation Department's cold-water hatcheries have been affected, with production falling below goals. This will result in reduced stocking rates throughout 2002 at trout parks and at the department's regular trout management areas.
"Rainbow trout stocking rates will be reduced by about 10 to 11 percent statewide, but brown trout production is expected to be on target, based on requests we've received," said Richards. He said 50 to 60 percent of the Conservation Department's trout production goes to trout parks.
The Conservation Department considered changing the daily limit from five to four at trout parks and regular trout management areas. "We decided against the restriction," said Fisheries Division Administrator Norm Stucky. "Instead, we are asking anglers to voluntarily reduce their daily harvest from five to four trout at these areas. This will ensure that more anglers have the opportunity to catch trout and enjoy this year's season." The Conservation Department is also asking anglers to take extra care in handling trout they intend to release.
"Many anglers at Missouri's trout parks are more interested in spending quality time with family and friends than filling a cooler with trout," said Jim Washabaugh, author of Fishing the Missouri Trout Parks. "In fact, anglers should remember that at the trout parks your fifth trout means you are done fishing for the day. Releasing it allows you to continue catch-and-release fishing."
At normal capacity, the department's five cold water hatcheries produce 1.75 to 2 million catchable-sized trout per year. For nearly three years, production capacity has been reduced by lower flows from Missouri's Ozark springs. These lower flows reduce water quality and make it difficult to raise trout. "Trout grow more slowly when water levels and quality are reduced," said Richards. During 2001, spring flows dropped by more than 50 percent at Roaring River and Montauk hatcheries. Eight of 20 production raceways at Montauk were closed for much of the 2001 production cycle; at Roaring River half of the production raceways were closed due to low water levels.
"There is only so much you can do about the weather. During the past few years I have been able to walk across some of my favorite trout fishing areas, which were previously too deep to wade," laments Curt Morgret of the Mid-Missouri Chapter of Trout Unlimited. "The drought not only limits hatchery production, it limits the habitat available for the trout that would normally be stocked by the Conservation Department, But the department has provided Missourians with excellent trout fishing for 65 years, and I doubt most anglers will notice the reduction."
The Conservation Department hopes that weather conditions will improve, allowing the reduction to affect this year's season alone. "Water conditions over the next six months will determine our ability to raise our trout fingerlings to catchable size by 2003," said Stucky. "We are also looking into the possibility of increasing production capacity at Shepherd of the Hills and Maramec to help protect our entire trout hatchery system from continued drought."
Because of the long drought, staff at the Conservation Department's trout hatcheries have worked overtime to maintain production levels, constantly sharing and transferring fish to make the best use of limited water.
"I'm proud of the work that the fisheries staff has done," said Conservation Department Director Jerry Conley. "They have kept production levels as high as possible -- requiring no reductions in 1999, 2000 or 2001. We plan for this year's reduction to be a temporary situation. We will continue to maximize our production capabilities -- and pray for rain."
- Stephanie Ramsey Westbrook -
The Conservation Department accepts applications for managed turkey hunts between Feb. 11 and March 8.
JEFFERSON CITY -- Hunters who want a shot at participating in a Missouri Department of Conservation managed spring turkey hunt should pick up applications now.
Eight managed hunts are scheduled for the regular spring turkey season April 22 through May 12. The hunts will be held at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area (CA) and Weldon Spring CA April 22-24, April 27-30, May 3-6 and May 9-12. Participation in the turkey hunts will be determined by a random drawing. Forty applicants will be selected for each hunt.
Hunters may apply individually or in groups of up to three hunters per hunting party. Hunters may submit only one application card. A completed application must include each applicant's name, address and date of birth. If you apply as a party, do not send individual application cards. Anyone whose name appears on more than one application will be disqualified from the drawing.
Application forms are available at the Busch CA, located at 2360 Highway D in St Charles County. Applications must be postmarked at a post office by March 8.
Successful applications will be charged a $3 administration fee, but money should not be sent with applications. Only the hunter listed first on group applications will be notified if the group is drawn for a hunt. If the group is not successful, each party listed on the application will be notified.
Missouri residents who are permanently confined to wheelchairs automatically qualify to participate in one of these managed hunts. They need only complete a separate application card and forward it to the Missouri Department of Conservation along with a supporting statement by a licensed physician and a $3 processing fee.
- Arleasha Mays -
Fines top $32,000 and are still climbing.
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- More than 40 poachers are have been fined in excess of $32,000, and others await justice following an undercover investigation in three Ozarks counties.
Responding to citizens' complaints about flagrant deer poaching, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted a joint special investigation in Iron, Reynolds, Ripley, and Shannon counties. The investigation, which spanned the 1998 and 1999 firearms deer seasons, identified and documented the activities of groups of hunters who were taking deer illegally on both private and public land. Now, with most of the cases resolved, the two agencies have released details of the operation.
At the center of the joint investigation was the practice of hunting deer with hounds. This illegal method of hunting usually involves a number of hunters scattered over a large area. Participants use two-way radios to stay in contact with others in their party. The sound of the hounds in pursuit of the deer allows the hunters to judge where the deer may run, and the deer doggers use cars, trucks or all-terrain vehicles to intercept and kill deer fleeing from the hounds. The intercept points often are public roads or streams.
The deer dogging technique is most effective in rugged landscapes, where hills, ridges and valleys funnel fleeing deer along predictable routes.
An undercover investigator infiltrated groups of hunters that were hunting deer with the aid of dogs. The investigator used specialized video surveillance cameras to document violations, as support staff monitored and recorded radio conversations from unmarked vehicles near the illegal activity. Conservation officers and federal agents documented 251 violations of state law and 384 federal violations. Most involved hunting deer with the aid of dogs, but violations also included taking over the legal limit of deer, failing to tag and check deer and taking deer from a public roadway. Many of these incidents took place on U.S. Forest Service or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property.
To date, more than 40 violators have received fines totaling more than $32,000 in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri at Cape Girardeau. Six other hunters still face charges in federal court and five face charges in state court. Fines for these offenses range from $500 to $1,000 per charge.
Bob White, Protection Unit Chief for the Conservation Department, said the agency strongly supports the legal use of sporting dogs, but pursuing deer with the aid of dogs is prohibited. "Hunting rabbits, squirrels, quail, waterfowl and furbearers are examples of the legal, ethical use of dogs for hunting." said White. "Pursuing deer with dogs often causes conflict with those who still-hunt, as dogs chasing deer interrupt legal hunters, and also cause trespass complaints on private property."
White said the prohibition of dogs in deer hunting is strongly supported by hunters. A 1991 survey of Missouri hunters showed that 71.6 percent said free-running dogs were either a great threat or somewhat of a threat to deer hunting.
"This case is a warning to renegade groups of hunters who operate with no regard for wildlife regulations or respect for the rights of Missouri landowners and sportsmen," said White. "We intend to make them answer for their actions. The Conservation Department will continue working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to develop new and innovative investigative techniques to address deer-dogging and other illegal hunting."
- Jim Low -
JEFFERSON CITY -- The Missouri Conservation Commission will meet at 8:30 a.m. March 7 at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, 11715 Cragwold Road, Kirkwood.
Commission meetings are open to the public. Items to be placed on the agenda for presentations or other business should be sent in writing to: Director, Missouri Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180; fax 573/751-4467. Requests must be received by Feb. 25. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend the meeting can make arrangements at the same address, or by phone at 573/751-4115.
Commission officers are: Anita B. Gorman, Kansas City, chairman; Howard L. Wood, Bonne Terre, vice chairman, Stephen C. Bradford, Cape Girardeau, secretary, and Cynthia Metcalfe, St. Louis, member.
- Jim Low -
Prevention is best, but when Canada goose numbers get out of hand, the Conservation Department has a range of suggestions to help.
JEFFERSON CITY -- Who would have guessed that Missouri would have a problem with too many Canadians? The problems are real, however, and the Missouri Department of Conservation stands ready to help.
Technically, the Canada geese that cause consternation in some communities aren't Canadian at all. They are year-round residents of Missouri, the legacy of a highly effective restoration program the Conservation Department undertook four decades ago. While everyone is glad to see this impressive part of Missouri's bird life restored to its former vigor, Missourians also are learning that it's possible to have too much of a good thing.
For some, "too much" means being chased by a territorial, 10-pound gander intent on protecting his nesting territory. For others, it's discovering that their municipal water supply has been contaminated with fecal coliform bacteria from goose droppings or paying thousands of dollars to repair damage that grazing geese caused to golf course greens and fairways. One goose can be far too many if it finds its way into the intake of a jet engine on an airliner.
Preventing such problems usually is easier than solving them once they develop. The Conservation Department encourages property owners to stay ahead of goose problems by avoiding the conditions that contribute to them. Any area that offers a place for the big birds to swim and short, tender grass to eat is a likely candidate for trouble.
Letting grass grow is one way to avoid goose problems. Conservation Department Wildlife Biologist Dave Graber says taking away their ideal habitat forces geese to forage more widely for food, making them less likely to spend time in one location.
"Mowing creates a succulent, tender grass that provides a high protein diet for geese," Graber says. "Short grasses also provide the perfect habitat for them. They like to have a clear view of all the area around them, so they can quickly spot predators. Geese tend to avoid areas with tall grasses because it blocks their view. It's also high in fiber, so it's not as nutritious or appetizing to the geese."
Goose nesting season begins in February or March, now is the time to think about making places where geese aren't wanted less hospitable to them. Graber advises property owners to remove all artificial nesting structures, refrain from feeding geese and limit access to ponds or lakes on their property.
"If you don't want geese on your property, the first thing to do is remove nesting tubs," says Graber. "Years ago we used to promote nesting tubs to help in our restoration efforts. With the population thriving, the tubs are no longer necessary, but if they are there the geese will use them. Because they are protected under federal law, it is easier to prevent geese from nesting than to make them leave once they have started nesting on your property."
Graber advises homeowners to allow grass to grow six to eight inches tall to discourage geese from feeding on their property. Adding trees and shrubs to land around a pond or lake also can reduce open space. Because geese typically walk rather than fly from water onto the adjacent lawn, tall plants or a three-foot high fence can help discourage them from entering your property.
Further deterrence can be achieved with flashy plastic tape or by using dogs trained to harass geese. "We realize that letting grass grow will not be an acceptable option in all locations," Graber says. "However, it is an option that is often overlooked."
Longer hunting seasons and higher bag limits are among the steps the Conservation Department has taken to help control local goose populations. Graber says those changes help offset annual goose population increase.
Landowners who have chronic problems with geese can request special permits to treat the eggs to prevent them from hatching. This helps prevent future problems by reducing goose reproduction. A special permit is required to do this or destroy goose nests, however.
Where some techniques aren't practical, or where nest and egg destruction don't provide enough relief, it may be possible to round up unwanted geese and have them processed for donation to food pantries. This, too, requires help from the Conservation Department.
For help in preventing or eliminating goose problems, contact the nearest Conservation Department regional service center. These are located in St. Charles, Blue Springs, Springfield, Columbia, Sedalia, Clinton, Kirksville, St. Joseph, Cape Girardeau, Sullivan and West Plains.
- Jim Low -
Amazing weather and an unprecedented muzzleloader harvest put the season total well over last year's record figure.
JEFFERSON CITY -- The weather was grand, and so was the deer harvest. Missouri hunters posted a record-setting deer harvest of more than 257,910 during Missouri's 2001-2002 firearms and archery deer hunting seasons.
Reports from check stations statewide show that bowhunters bagged 21,767 deer during the split archery hunting season Oct. 1 through Nov. 9 and Nov. 21 through Jan. 15. Add this to the 205,867 deer checked during the November firearms hunt, 8,662 recorded during the muzzleloader hunt Dec. 1 through 9, 14,668 checked by hunters during the January segment of firearms deer season and the 6,277 harvested during the Youth Deer Hunt Oct. 27 and 28 and 669 reported so far from managed deer hunts and you've got a record year.
Harvest figures still are being tallied for a few managed deer hunts. These figures will push the final 2001-2002 harvest figure slightly higher.
Officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation attribute the strong harvest in part to warm, dry weather, which encouraged hunters to stay in the woods during the various portions of deer hunting season. It didn't hurt that the state's deer herd is in good shape – numbering around a million. The increasing popularity of hunting with muzzle-loading firearms, spurred on by allowing hunters to buy one permit for both modern firearms and muzzleloader season, created an 80 percent increase in the muzzleloader harvest.
The total deer harvest in 2000-2001 was 245,686. This included 201,165 during the November firearms segment, 4,815 during the muzzleloader season, 14,656 during the January segment of firearms deer season, 23,558 during bow season and 1,492 in managed hunts.
- Jim Low -
Leaders are determined to keep chronic wasting disease from entering Missouri.
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri departments of Conservation and Agriculture are continuing to step up efforts to protect the state from the threat of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a brain-wasting disease of elk and deer. The agencies recently signed a formal agreement to focus on identifying and implementing steps to reduce the risk of CWD entering Missouri. Both agencies are committed to a partnership effort and have continued to share information and resources regarding CWD's possible implications to Missouri.
While CWD has not been documented in Missouri, it occurs in captive and wild elk and deer in a handful of western states. The increased effort to safeguard Missouri from CWD was reinforced by recent concerns regarding the interstate movement of captive elk from states with CWD. This movement had the potential to introduce the disease into Missouri.
Under the new agreement, the Conservation and Agriculture departments will develop a voluntary surveillance program for people raising captive deer and elk, a public information program, new regulations to prevent introduction of the disease and guidelines for action should CWD be found in Missouri.
In October, Colorado officials announced that elk from Colorado were infected with CWD and these elk had been shipped to locations in 15 states, including Missouri. The U.S. Department of Agriculture purchased the animals for testing. Tests of the animals found no evidence of CWD.
Additionally, the Conservation Department is addressing CWD concerns by testing selected deer harvested during the 2001 deer season. Although further tests are pending, current results show no evidence of CWD. The department will continue testing during the 2002 deer season.
CWD belongs to a group of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Evidence suggests infected deer or elk may transmit the disease through animal-to-animal contact or by contaminating feed or water sources with saliva, urine or feces. TSEs are thought to result from mutated proteins called prions that cause a fatal degeneration, or wasting, of the brain. Other TSEs include scrapie in sheep and bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mad cow disease) in cattle. The prions causing each disease differ and there is no evidence that CWD affects humans.
Conservation Department Director Jerry Conley says the recent CWD scare is evidence that more must be done to prevent the introduction of the disease into our state. "We were fortunate that none of the captive elk imported into the state tested positive for chronic wasting disease," Conley says. "I don't want the health of our wild deer left to chance. We must take steps to prevent CWD-infected animals from entering the state. I'm confident that our partnership with the Department of Agriculture can accomplish these goals."
- Stephanie Ramsey -
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