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“The Day I’ll Join the NRA”

May 6, 2010

What follows virtually mirrors my feelings toward the NRA. While I remain a Life Member simply because then I at least have the right to criticize the organization from within. I was speaking the other day with the author of what follows about this very subject.

My feelings? Has the NRA done some good in the past? Certainly! Have they helped the nation? Again, certainly! However, they should have stayed with safety, marksmanship, competitions, and hunting, and, turned over politics and legal things to their former director Larry Pratt at Gun Owners of America.

Recently I came across the following  – AN OPEN LETTER TO TED NUGENT:”THE DAY I’LL JOIN THE NRA”, it originates from Aaron Zelman, Founder and Director of Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership (JPFO).

I couldn’t agree more with Mr. Zelman’s points, as a matter of fact WyGO – Wyoming Gun Owners was also formed due to the ongoing compromise by the NRA.

Two excerpts from the letter:

I’ll join the NRA…
When the NRA soundly condemns, and works tirelessly to abolish, the “Gun Control Act of 1968”. NRA lawyers actually helped to write this piece of totalitarian legislation…

And this one…

I’ll join the NRA…
When the NRA aggressively presses to abolish all concealed carry permit laws. How has an unalienable right to self defense been demoted to a revocable government granted privilege? Unregistered concealed carry has been no big issue in both Alaska and Vermont for decades. Arizona just passed unregistered concealed legislation. It’s time for the NRA to start swimming strongly with this tide…

Be sure to read the entire letter to Ted Negent or all of the open letters from JPFO

Like you, I will wait patiently for Ted’s reply. (Sarcasm)

Anthony Bouchard is a staunch supporter of the Bill of Rights and limited government – he is also the Director of WyGO – Wyoming Gun Owners Association, Wyoming’s Only No-Compromise Gun-Rights Organization. Anthony is also the –  Cheyenne Government Examiner.

WyGO / Wyoming Gun Owners

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Wyoming Gun Owners

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Posted in Editorial, Opinion, Education, Gun Control, Hoplophobia, Hunting Fishing and the Great Outdoors, Law, News, Politics, Wordpress Political Blogs | 5 Comments »

Firearms and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact

May 4, 2010
To: ALL MEDIA
For immediate release

April 29, 2010

 Media Only:

Ted Novin
 Office: 203-426-1320
Cell: 203-253-1860
tnovin@nssf.org

Firearms Industry Releases
Economic Impact Report

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a Capitol Hill breakfast briefing today, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association for the firearms and ammunition industry, released a newly commissioned report detailing the significant economic impact the firearms and ammunition industry has on the nation’s and each state’s economy.

Key Points: Firearms and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact

2008 2009
Jobs 166,200 183,424
Wages $6,361,205,400 $8,210,881,000
Econ Impact $19,199,634,700 $27,846,304,300

“During difficult economic times and high unemployment rates nationally, our industry actually grew and created 16,800 new, well-paying jobs,” said NSSF President Steve Sanetti. “Our industry is proud to be one of the bright spots in this economy.”

Key Points: Taxes

2008 2009
Federal Taxes $1,503,740,471 $2,035,154,440
State Taxes $1,299,088,678 $1,909,417,793
Excise Taxes $327,070,867 $450,177,780

The economic growth America’s firearms and ammunition industry experienced last year was driven by an unprecedented number of Americans choosing to exercise their fundamental right to keep and bear arms and purchase a firearm and ammunition. This coincided with the continued decline in accidental firearm-related deaths (more than a 60 percent decrease in the last 20 years) and a continued drop in crime rates nationally.

Also cited in the economic impact report were the significant taxes paid by industry member companies to federal and state governments and the Pittman-Robertson excise tax the industry pays on the products it sells – this tax is the major source of wildlife conservation funding in America.

“In 2009 our industry increased its contribution to wildlife conservation by over 37.6 percent, which translates into sportsmen contributing more than $7.5 million dollars daily to conservation efforts,” said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane.

“Ours is an industry with a storied past, steeped in tradition and a rich heritage,” continued Keane. “We were there at the beginning of America’s economic expansion and remain a vital and important American industry. We look forward to speaking with members of Congress today about important legislative and regulatory issues that will allow our industry members to continue to grow their businesses and create new jobs in their communities.”

-30-

About NSSF

The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of more than 5,500 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

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Coyotes and Spring: Living with wildlife

April 30, 2010

The Colorado Division of Wildlife is asking people to take precautions when living or recreating in coyote country. From coyote attacks on pets to aggressive coyotes approaching people, the Division is receiving increasing calls about coyote activity.

“Spring is denning season for coyotes and with new pups in the dens, coyotes will behave more aggressively,” explained John Broderick, Terrestrial Program Manager for the Division of Wildlife. “When you put defensive coyotes trying to feed their young into the mix with lots of people heading outdoors to enjoy the warming weather, you get the right mix for potential problems.”

The DOW wants to caution people about encounters with coyotes. These are not pets. They are wild animals that are predators, and they should be treated with caution and respect.

The coyote (Canis latrans) is a member of the dog family. It resembles a small German shepherd with the exception of the long snout and bushy, black-tipped tail. Coyotes are extremely adaptable and resourceful, and can survive on whatever food is available. They prey on rabbits, mice, birds and other small animals, as well as young deer and sheep. In urban areas, coyotes have attacked people’s small pets – cats and dogs included – particularly when pets are allowed to roam free or left out in yards overnight. A typical coyote weighs about 30 lbs.

Coyote home ranges can include urban areas such as the downtown Denver corridor. From feeding on pets in the urban environment to more natural prey in canyon, sage and forest lands, coyotes are common around the state.

Many urban coyote conflicts often center on feeding issues. When people feed wildlife, it doesn’t take long to teach a wild animal to associate people with food, but it’s very difficult to convince a habituated coyote to return to wild ways. Coyotes that appear friendly may be mimicking behavior that has been rewarded with food in the past: Remember that all wildlife is unpredictable. Do not get close or encourage interaction with wild animals. When it becomes apparent that no food is forthcoming, the coyote’s behavior can change abruptly.

People with pets need to keep them on a leash when walking them. While at home, pets should not be allowed to roam freely.  Even pets in enclosed yards run the risk of predation, especially at night.  People should also feed their pets inside in an effort to keep pet food from attracting coyotes and other wildlife.

Encounters with aggressive coyotes should be reported to the nearest Colorado Division of Wildlife office.

For more information, get a copy of “Living with Wildlife in Coyote Country” at your local Division of Wildlife office or on the web at http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/Mammals/CoyoteCountry.htm

An educational video entitled “Being Coyote Wise” is also available for viewing on the Division of Wildlife website: http://wildlife.state.co.us/NewsMedia/Videos/BeingCoyoteWisevideo.htm

# # #

TIPS TO REMEMBER:

Discouraging Coyotes Near Homes

  • Frighten coyotes with loud noises; use unnatural odors (such as ammonia) to clean trash cans.
  • Remove food attractants such as pet food, table scraps on compost piles, fallen fruit, and spilled seed beneath birdfeeders.
  • Remove vegetation and brush that provides cover for prey and hiding cover for coyotes; trim lower limbs of shrubs and conifer trees.
  • Use yard lights with motion detectors, appearance of the sudden light may frighten coyotes away.

    Protecting Pets and Children

  • Keep pets in fenced areas or kennels; remember split rail fences and invisible fences will not keep your pet safe from predators. Pet kennels and runs should have a fully-enclosed roof.
  • Provide human supervision while outdoors, even in your own backyard.
  • Do not allow pets to run loose in areas where there is coyote activity. Keep pets on leash or leave the area when you see a coyote. Most urban areas have leash laws requiring dogs to be under control. Coyotes and foxes have been known to be responsible for many cat disappearances in residential neighborhoods.
  • Although rare, coyotes have been known to injure people.  Most of these incidents involved people feeding coyotes. Teach your family not to approach wildlife and never feed wildlife.
  • Treat the presence of a coyote as an unfamiliar and potentially threatening dog.

    Coyote Encounters

  • Coyotes are usually wary of humans and will avoid people whenever possible. Aggressive behavior toward people is not normal and is often a result of habituation due to feeding by humans.
  • Never feed or attempt to “tame” a coyote.
  • Do not turn your back or run from a coyote.
  • If approached or followed by a coyote, make loud noises, yell and make yourself look big.
  • If the coyote approaches to an uncomfortably close distance, throw rocks or other objects at the coyote.
  • Adults should keep themselves between the coyote and small children.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Posted in Editorial, Opinion, Education, Hunting Fishing and the Great Outdoors, News, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »

Living with Wildlife: It’s that time of year again folks!

April 28, 2010

BEARS COMING OUT OF HIBERNATION; TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID CONFLICTS

DURANGO, Colo. — Bears are emerging from their long winter naps throughout Colorado, and the Division of Wildlife is reminding residents and visitors to always be bear aware.

At this time of year, bears will be looking for new plant growth and fresh grass to eat to help them restart their digestive systems. But bears, once they are up and running, are opportunistic feeders and will exploit any available food supply, including: garbage, pet food, bird seed, and home and restaurant table scraps. Bears that become habituated to human food sources can be dangerous and often must be euthanized.

Because they are large omnivores, bears are nearly always on a search for food. Wild foods are essential for bears — berries, insects, acorns forbs, plants and carrion. But when people fail to store garbage, pet food or bird feeders properly, bears will find those sources and cause conflicts in residential and business areas.

Many communities in bear country have ordinances regarding trash storage that apply to wildlife, so abide by those rules.

If you live in bear country, these simple precautions can reduce or eliminate your chances of creating conflicts with bears:
–          Keep garbage in a secure building or a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster.
–          If you don’t have a place to store garbage, ask the trash company for a bear-resistant container or order one. Many suppliers advertise containers on the Internet.
–          Place smelly food scraps in the freezer until garbage day.
–          Rinse out all cans, bottles and jars so that they are free of food and odors before putting them out for recycling or pick-up.
–          Put out garbage cans only on the morning of pick-up. Do not put out garbage the night before.
–          Wash garbage cans regularly with ammonia to eliminate food odors.
–          Don’t leave pet food or pet dishes outside.
–          Bird feeders are a major cause of wildlife conflicts. Besides bears, feeders may also attract small mammals, deer and mountain lions. Birds do not need to be fed during the summer. As an alternative to feeders, attract birds naturally by hanging flower baskets, putting out a bird bath or planting a variety of flowers. Use bird feeders only from November until the end of March when bears are hibernating.
–          If bears get into bird feeders, take the feeders down immediately and don’t put them back up.
–          Pick ripe fruit from trees and off the ground.
–          Clean outdoor grills after each use; the smell of grease can attract bears.
–          Never intentionally feed bears.
–          Close and lock lower floor windows and doors of your house.
–          Clean up thoroughly after outdoor parties.
–          Don’t leave food in your car, lock car doors. Bears are smart and many have learned to open car doors.
–          When camping, store food and garbage inside a locked vehicle. Keep the campsite clean. Don’t eat in the tent. In the backcountry, hang your food at least 10 feet high and 10 feet away from anything a bear can climb.
–          Bears are not naturally aggressive toward people and prefer to avoid contact. If you see a bear in your neighborhood make it feel unwelcome: yell at it, throw sticks and rocks at it. But never approach a bear.

Remember this: “a fed bear is a dead bear.” Making food available to bears teaches them to associate humans with food — and that’s the start of conflict.

To report bear problems, contact your local Colorado Division of Wildlife office, or local law enforcement.

To learn more about living with bears, go to the DOW’s web site: http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Living with Wildlife: Mountain Lions are called that for a reason!

April 25, 2010

MOUNTAIN LION SAFETY VIDEO AVAILABLE ON-LINE

Mountain lion sightings are becoming more and more common in Colorado. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has produced a short video about safety in lion country to help educate residents and visitors. Media outlets, schools and organizations are invited to link to this video from their respective web sites.

The “Mountain Lion Safety” video explains lion behavior, how you can prevent attracting lions onto your property, how to protect pets and livestock, and what to do if you come close to a lion on a trail or in the backcountry.

The link to the video at the DOW website is: http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/.

The video can also be found on YouTube, search “Mountain Lion Safety.”

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Thieves at the Public Table: Poachers or just killers?

April 25, 2010

DOW INVESTIGATING DEER KILLINGS AT ADAMS STATE COLLEGE

ALAMOSA, Colo. — The Colorado Division of Wildlife is investigating the killing of five deer on the campus of Adams State College.

The animals were shot at approximately 2 a.m., April 22, and were found by Alamosa police department officers. They notified campus police and the Colorado Division of Wildlife. The DOW is the lead agency in the investigation because the crime involves wildlife. The investigation is being coordinated with campus police.

No motive or suspects have been identified.

Anyone who has information about this incident should contact the DOW’s Monte Vista office at (719)587-6900; Operation Game Thief at 1-877-265-6648; or the Adams State police at (719)587-7901.

Reports can be made anonymously to Operation Game Thief, and a reward is possible if a tip leads to a conviction.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Epic Fail Obama to ban recreational fishing..?

April 23, 2010

For years the envirowacko’s have been trying to ban hunting. That is not news, but, while we have all been concentrating on things like the Constitution, forced government health care,as as of late illegal immigration? Well, it appears that more shenanigans are still being played out behind closed doors.

The idea that any president would contemplate arbitrarily banning a sport that millions of Americans enjoy, from young boys dropping lines at the local fishing hole, to adults struggling with Marlins on the high seas,

is just mind boggling. A potential ban on recreational fishing suggests that this administration is possessed by a myopic version of environmental ideology that transcends common sense. It also feels empowered to tell Americans what they can or cannot do at a whim.

If a ban on recreational fishing were to take hold, one would suspect that a ban on recreational hunting would not be far behind. Environmental groups have been trying to stop hunting for decades and now seem to have an administration willing to do their bidding.

There will almost certainly be a pushback against these plans. To paraphrase the president himself, Americans have traditionally clung to their fishing rods as much as they do their guns and their God. The writer Norman Mclean wrote a story, ‘A River Runs Through It’, that explored the spiritual aspects of fly fishing. The story was made into a film by Robert Redford.

Full Story Here

At least they didn’t blame it on man made global warming… For now.

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Posted in Economics, Editorial, Opinion, Education, Gun Control, Hunting Fishing and the Great Outdoors, Law, News, Non Compos Mentis, Politics, Wordpress Political Blogs | 1 Comment »

Colorado: WEST SLOPE KIDS ENCOURAGED TO EXPERIENCE OUTDOORS AT OUTDOOR HERITAGE DAY

April 22, 2010

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – More than 30 non-profit outdoor and sportsmen’s groups, government agencies and outdoor-related businesses from across western Colorado will sponsor the 3rd Annual Outdoor Heritage Day in Palisade on Saturday, April 24. The free event began in 2008 from the efforts of Colorado Division of Wildlife officer Frank McGee. McGee became concerned with how little time today’s youth spend outdoors and organized the first Outdoor Heritage Day event to get kids and their families outside and experiencing what Colorado can offer.

“There are so many different things locally that families can enjoy,” said McGee. “People don’t realize what we have within just a short car ride.  We want to give families, especially kids, what they need to know to get out and experience the best parts of western Colorado.”

Outdoor Heritage Day is free and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 24 at Riverbend Park in Palisade. Activities for school age youth include a fishing clinic, hunting simulator, climbing wall, mountain biking, nature walks, a mobile shooting range and much more. Presentations by outdoor organizations will also be held throughout the day. Lunch and all activities are provided at no cost. Visit http://www.outdoorheritageday.org for more information and full event schedule.

Outdoor Heritage Day is sponsored by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, Town of Palisade, Colorado Mule Deer Association, Colorado Sportsmen’s Wildlife Fund, Ducks Unlimited, Mesa County School Districts 50 and 51, Colorado State Parks, National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Boy Scouts of America, 4H, Trout Unlimited and Federation of Fly Fishers – Grand Valley Anglers, National Wild Turkey Federation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Safari Club International, Future Farmers of America, Colorado Outfitters Association, Grand Valley Audubon Society, Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association, Grand Mesa Back Country Horsemen, North American Grouse Partnership, Camp Redcloud, Red Rock Archery, The Moose 100.7, Mesa County Search and Rescue, US Bureau of Reclamation, Western Slope ATV Association, Army National Guard, US Bureau of Land Management, USDA Forest Service-Grand Valley Ranger District, Girl Scouts of America, Western Colorado Retrievers Club, Outdoors Alive, Colorado State Forest Service, Western Flyers Youth Project, Gene Taylors, Colorado Hawking Club, Rocky Mountain Spearfishing Association, Friends of the Mustangs, Sportsman’s Warehouse, REI, Western Colorado Conservation Corps, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service and Cabela’s.

# # #

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Anti-hunting extremist organizations like the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) take it on the chin…again! :)

April 20, 2010
U.S. Supreme Court Issues Decision to Protect Hunting Media
Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Fairfax, Va. – Today the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a federal animal cruelty law so broadly written that it would criminalize the distribution of hunting videos and magazines under many circumstances. The 8-1 ruling in U.S. v Stevens is a big win for the National Rifle Association and hunters across America. A brief submitted by the NRA was cited in the majority’s opinion.

“The NRA condemns animal cruelty. However, hunting and depictions of hunting are not animal cruelty. This excessive law would have imposed felony penalties for creating, possessing or selling mainstream hunting images. Therefore, we are pleased that the Supreme Court ruled against this overbroad law,” said Chris W. Cox, executive director of NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action. “Indeed, NRA publications like American Hunter, the largest-circulation all-hunting magazine in the world, could have been in jeopardy if this law was upheld.”

Anti-hunting extremist organizations like the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) were the primary advocates for the deliberately overreaching language in Congress and its defenders in Court. HSUS’s intentions should have been apparent from the beginning. Before becoming president of the organization, Wayne Pacelle said, “The definition of obscenity on the newsstands should be extended to many hunting magazines.” And, this is precisely what the law did.

“American hunters and sportsmen are our country’s true conservationists. It is offensive that those who work hardest for the preservation efforts of wildlife in this country are grouped with those who commit actual animal cruelty,” concluded Cox. “Fortunately, the Supreme Court chose the First Amendment over Pacelle’s radical agenda, and the overruling of this law prevents the unwarranted punishment of ethical hunters and outdoor media in the United States.”

SOURCE

And a special message for Wayne Pacelle and ; Although I no longer live in Colorado, the offer made to you there still stands. Please come to Wyoming and wear your deer suit during hunting season! It will be a blast!

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Posted in Editorial, Opinion, Education, Gun Control, Hoplophobia, Hunting Fishing and the Great Outdoors, Law, News, Politics, Wordpress Political Blogs | 2 Comments »

Whew! Colorado Division of Wildlfe has been busy!

April 11, 2010

I do try to keep things posted in a timely  manner here with regards to things related to outdoors recreation. Mostly in Colorado, because I know it so well, and Wyoming, because it is like an adventure exploring my new home state. Then, there is my recent re-entry into reloading. My screen netting of Clear Creek here in the new local area… And so on.

So? Read on. This is, after all a compilation.

DENVER, Colo. — The Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) is starting its 5-year review of statewide fishing regulations and is asking anglers throughout the state to provide comments and suggestions on regulations and possible changes.

DOW’s aquatic biologists continually evaluate Colorado’s fisheries, pausing every five years to review the fishing regulations with the Colorado Wildlife Commission to ensure that management objectives and recreation needs for anglers are met. The regulations set allowable methods of take, season dates, size requirements and bag limits, as well as statewide rules that apply to individual waters throughout Colorado.

In addition to regulations, DOW biologists will examine biological and social data from state waters. These include fish and creel surveys, research and trend information, water quality issues, stocking activity and angler-satisfaction surveys. This data will be considered in the decision-making process for setting new regulations.

“We have some very interesting feedback in the northeast region regarding our fishing regulations,” said Ken Kehmeier, Senior Aquatic Biologist,” We’ve already heard from folks who’d like to see carp tournaments allowed, bow and spear fishing, and changes to the walleye regulations. These meetings are a great place to hash out ideas on angling with the public and brainstorm ways to make fishing even better for Coloradoans.”

Northeast Region Meetings

Tuesday, April 27              Comfort Inn Fort Morgan, 1409 Barlow Rd., 6:30-8:30 PM

Wednesday, April 28      Sterling Ramada Inn, 22140 E Hwy 6, 6:30-8:30 PM

Tuesday, May 4                                Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., 6:30-8:30 PM

Wednesday, May 5         DOW Denver HQ, 6060 Broadway, Bighorn Room, 6:30-8:30 PM

Timeline for 5-Year Fishing Regulation Process

The DOW requests that most angler comments be received by the end of April. The DOW is also asking for comments from fishing organizations, sportsmen’s groups; water resource managers, including ditch companies, conservancy districts, and state and federal government agencies; land management agencies, local governments and private landowners; and businesses and communities that have an economic stake in fishing activity.

After receiving input from anglers and an internal review, draft regulations will be prepared by July and presented for more public comment. The draft regulations will be sent to the wildlife commission in September for review and more public comment will be allowed at that time. New regulations will be adopted formally in November.

For the northeast region, submit questions or comments to Ken Kehmeier by calling, (970 472-4350), or emailing keh.kehmeier@state.co.us; Statewide-issue comments can also be submitted to Dave Chadwick, (303)291-7174, dave.chadwick@coloradostate.us.

Every year more than 600,000 people buy fishing licenses in Colorado. The state offers are wide variety of angling opportunities. Anglers can fish at warm- and cold-water lakes and reservoirs, in numerous big rivers, and in alpine streams and lakes. Every year, fishing in Colorado generates about $1.2 billion in economic benefits.

ANGLER ROUNDTABLES IN JUNCTION, GLENWOOD, MEEKER, STEAMBOAT AND GRANBY

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., – The Colorado Division of Wildlife is hosting Angler Roundtables around northwest Colorado to discuss the agency’s five-year review of fishing regulations. Angler Roundtables are open to the public and anyone interested in fishing is encouraged to attend.

Local Angler Roundtables will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the following locations:

Meeker – Thursday, April 22 – Mountain Valley Bank (400 Main Street)

Granby – Monday, April 26 – Granby Community Center (3rd and Jasper)

Glenwood Springs – Tuesday, April 27 – Glenwood Springs Community Center (100 Wolfsohn Rd.)

Grand Junction – Wednesday, April 28 – Ramada Inn (752 Horizon Dr.)

Steamboat Springs – Thursday, April 29 – DOW/USFS Office (925 Weiss Dr.)

Angler Roundtables are public meetings designed to provide people who fish with the opportunity to hear about DOW management and to ask questions or provide suggestions. In addition to discussing regulation changes, anglers can get information or ask questions about local fishing opportunities.

Fishing is an important part of Colorado’s economy. Every year more than 600,000 people buy fishing licenses in Colorado. Fishing generates about $1.2 billion in recreation revenue each year in the state.

After receiving public input, DOW staff will develop draft regulations to present to the Colorado Wildlife Commission in September. Those draft regulations will receive additional public review and Commission discussion before formal adoption by the Commission in November.

FLY FISHING SEMINAR IN SALIDA


SALIDA, Colo. – The Colorado Division of Wildlife will provide a fly fishing class on Sat., April 17, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Salida.

The seminar is geared toward intermediate fly-fisherman and takes place in two sessions – indoor classroom instruction at the Salida DOW office in the morning, followed by “hands-on” fishing instruction on the Arkansas River in the afternoon.

“This class will help people who already have a working knowledge of fly fishing to further fine-tune their skills and make them a more versatile angler,” said Matt Yamashita of the DOW.  “We will cover topics such as reading the water, casting techniques, and various fly presentation styles.”

Participants must furnish their own waders and fly-fishing gear (rods, reels, etc.), and must have a current Colorado fishing license.

The seminar is free.  Class size is limited to12 anglers and pre-registration is required.  Due to fluctuating water levels and wading requirements, this course is not recommended for children.

For more information, or to register, call (719) 227-5200.

The DOW office in Salida is located at 7405 Hwy 50.

The price of an annual fishing license is $26 for Colorado residents.  A one-day license is $9.

JUMBO AND PREWITT RESERVOIRS NOW OPEN TO BOATERS

DENVER, Colo.–The Colorado Division of Wildlife today announced that Jumbo and Prewitt reservoirs are now open for the 2010 boating season.

Jumbo Reservoir, located in Logan County, is open to boating from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. seven days a week through Memorial Day weekend.  Beginning June 1, boating hours will be extended to 9:30 p.m. until the end of the season.   All boats must complete a mandatory on-site inspection for aquatic nuisance species (ANS) prior to entering and upon leaving the reservoir.

Prewitt Reservoir, located in Washington County, is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, until the end of the boating season.  All boats are required to complete a mandatory on-site ANS inspection prior to entering the reservoir.

The mandatory watercraft inspections are part of a statewide effort to stop the spread of zebra and quagga mussels, and other ANS in Colorado reservoirs.   In order to ensure inspections run smoothly and lines move quickly, boaters should arrive to inspection sites with their vessels Clean, Drained and Dry.

For a detailed explanation of the “Clean, Drain and Dry” protocol, click here: http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/Profiles/InvasiveSpecies/WatercraftCleaning.htm

For more information on zebra and quagga mussels and how to prevent their spread, please visit the DOW’s Web site at:  http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/Profiles/InvasiveSpecies/ZebraandQuaggaMussels.htm

SAN LUIS VALLEY BIG-GAME MEETINGS SCHEDULED

MONTE VISTA, Colo. – The Colorado Division of Wildlife has scheduled two public meetings in the San Luis Valley to discuss big game management and license allocations for the 2010 hunting seasons in Game Management Units 68, 681, 682, 76, 79, 791, 80, 81, 82 and 83.

The first meeting is 6:30 p.m., April 15, at the Monte Vista Co-op, at, 1901 E. U.S. Highway 160.

The second meeting is 6:30 p.m., April 20 at the Blanca/Fort Garland Community Center, located about one mile west of Fort Garland on the north side of U.S. Highway 160.

Every year, DOW biologists evaluate big game harvest and population estimates to set license numbers for the seasons.

Brad Weinmeister, terrestrial biologist for the DOW in Monte Vista, will explain proposed license numbers for big game species: deer, elk, bear, pronghorn and moose.

For more information, call Weinmeister at (719)587-6905.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

Whew!

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Posted in Economics, Editorial, Opinion, Education, Gun Control, Hunting Fishing and the Great Outdoors, Law, Local Politics Colorado, Men's Issues, News, Politics, Uncategorized | 3 Comments »

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