March 2015 VOL. 76, NO. 2

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 3

Legislation aimed at drastically altering the composition, authority and funding of the Missouri

Department of Conservation is currently working its way through our General Assembly. In order to protect the forest, fish and wildlife resources millions of Missourians cherish, a strong, citizen led effort

must ensue to educate our elected officials on the importance of conservation to the State of Missouri.

If you and your family find pleasure in the natural

resources and outdoor heritage of Missouri, then there has never been a more important time for you to become involved in conservation advocacy. It’s likely hard for you to believe, but there are people in this state who hope to end the Missouri Model of Conservation, which is rooted in citizen led, science-based decision making.

The Conservation Federation of Missouri is working to ensure wildlife and wild places will exist for our children’s children to enjoy and appreciate, but we need your help. This list of legislation should be a wake-up call to every conservationist in Missouri. We hope you will join us in our opposition to legislation aimed at altering the conservation of forest, fish and wildlife in Missouri.

Legislation Aims to Cripple ConservationExEcutivE DirEctor

SJR 1 - Modifies the membership composition and terms of service of the commissioners of the Conservation Commission. *would regionalize and politicize the Conservation Commission

SB 56 - Modifies hunting, fishing and trapping permit fees for Missouri residents. *would eliminate an estimated $40 million annually from MDC

SB 178 - Modifies provisions relating to captive cervids. *would classify captive deer as livestock

SB 337/HB 763 - Prohibits the Conservation Commission and the Department of Conservation from engaging in prohibited conduct with a connected not-for-profit corporation. *would end countless conservation programs with not-for-profit public charities that partner with MDC

HJR 27 - Proposes a constitutional amendment reducing the sales tax from 1/8 of a cent to 1/16 of a cent. *would eliminate an estimated $55 million annually from MDC

HJR 28 - Proposes a constitutional amendment requiring the conservation sales tax be approved by voters every 10 years. *would drastically change long-term conservation planning

HJR 39 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to repeal the Conservation Commission’s authority to acquire land. *would end the Department’s ability to acquire public lands for hunting, fishing, trapping, hiking, camping and more.

HB 317 - Requires the Department of Conservation to reimburse automobile owners up to $500 for damages inflicted upon their vehicles by deer. *would cost MDC untold millions

HB 710 - Allows non-residents who own property or pay income taxes in Missouri to receive resident hunting and fishing permit privileges. *would cost MDC an untold amount

HB 834 - Prohibits state agencies or entities from purchasing or receiving donated land without the approval of the General Assembly. *would give politicians authority over all public land acquisition, while ending your right to donate land without political approval

To stay informed of legislative issues concerning con-servation in Missouri, sign-up for CFM Legislative Action Alerts and ask your family and friends to do the same. http://confedmo.org/programs/legislation/action-center/

Citizens built the unique and successful Missouri Model of Conservation, and it’s citizens who must protect it.

Brandon ButlerExecutive Director, CFM

4 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

Contents

XX

Missouri Wildlife is the official publication of the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. ISSN 1082-8591

Mission Statement: Missourians for Conservation of Natural Resources and Protection of Our Outdoor Heritage.

728 W. Main Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559

Phone • 573-634-2322 Email • lcoleman@confedmo.org

Online • 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 Con ser vation Federation of Missouri, 728 W. Main, Jef ferson 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

Al VogtRon ColemanGary Van De VeldeNicole WoodRandy Washburn

Brandon Butler

Rehan Nana

Emma Kessinger

Micaela Haymaker

Laurie Coleman

Joe Pendergrass

President1st Vice President2nd Vice PresidentSecretaryTreasurer

Executive Director/ Editor

Deputy Director

CommunicationsSpecialist

Office Manager

Membership Director/ Managing Editor

Creative Director

Officers

staff

Wildlife MISSOURI

March 2015Vol. 76, No. 2

Front Cover: Photo was taken in the morning at Boundary Bay, B.C., where numerous bald eagles gather in the winter months of January

and February. Photo credit: Christian Sasse www.sassephoto.com

10 Conservation Tension

12 Winter To Spring

17 Dan Vogt of Whitetails Unlimited Wins Field Director of the Year

24 Dr. C.F. Luebbert Honored for Lifetime Achievement in Conservation

25 Spicebush, Swallowtail and Other Yard Swag

26 New Tournament Circuit Set for Missouri High School Anglers

27 Nature Conservancy Protects Prairie Wetland in Western Missouri

30 Cooking in the Outdoors

34 Passion for the Outdoors

35 Missouri Shooting Teams Receive Grant Funding

38 Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation Spring Fling

39 In Prusuit of MIssouri’s Winter Trout

40 Life After CLC - Where Are You Now? Kat Dockery

42 Why I Became a Life Member of CFM

news, updates and columns

3 From The Stone House

6 President’s Message

agency news –

missouri department of conservation -

20 MDC to Match $1.3 million in Federal Dollars to Help Missouri Landowners with Key Habitat Conservation

21 Missouri Deer-Hunting Season Ends with Harvest of 260,552

22 MDC Seeks Public Input on Proposed Deer Hunting Regulation Changes

department of natural Resources –

32 The Value of Water and State Water Planning

33 Spotlight on Missouri State Parks — Trout Season in Missouri State Parks

member Information:

5 Business Alliance Members 11 New Members 14 Calendar 21 Honorariums & Memorials 28 CFM Affiliates 41 Member’s Memories

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 5

Thank You! Business alliance MeMBersOur sincere thanks to all of our Business Alliance members.

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

To learn more about how your business can benefit from supporting conservation call Rehan Nana at the CFM office, 573-634-2322.

GoldAlps OutdoorZMidwayUSA

silverCZ-USA

G3 BoatsLearfield Communication, Inc.

Poke N’ Stoke

BronzeAssociation of Missouri Electric Cooperatives

James T. Blair IV

Missouri Petroleum Council

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery

NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.

Sierra Bullets, LLC

Platinum

Bass Pro Shops (Independence)

Bee Rock Outdoor Adventures, LLC

Black Widow Custom Bows, Inc.

Bob McCosh Chevrolet Buick GMC

Brown Printing

Cap America

Citizens Telephone Company

Columbia Daily Tribune

Commerce Bank

Consolidated Electric Cooperative

Dickerson Park Zoo

Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association

Fast Yeti

Forrest Keeling Nursery

General Printing Service

Greenbrier Wetland Services

Grundy Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Hornbuckle Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, Inc.

Hulett Heating & Air Conditioning

Hunting Works for Missouri

Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative

Logboat Brewing Company

McRoberts Farm, Inc.

Meramec Bison Farm, LLC

Midwest Mailing Services

Missouri Conservation Pioneers

Pure Air Natives, Inc.

Quality Forest Management, LLC

REMAX Boone Realty

Second Creek Deer Blinds

Shade Tree Service, Inc.

Shady Lane Cabins & Motel

Shafer, Kline & Warren, Inc.

Tabor Plastics Company

The Bank of Missouri

United Electric Cooperative, Inc.

White River Valley Electric Coop., Inc.

iron

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 5

6 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

One time each year the Conservation Federation of

Missouri gives citizens an opportunity to engage in conservation in a very unique way - to participate as citizens in both working to advocate and promote conservation in Missouri and in celebrating conservation achievements.

CFM’s Convention is designed to mix

important business with delightful pleasure.

Resolutions to address the myriad of conservation issues are prepared. Fourteen resource committees meet to discuss issues in their respective interest areas and develop resolutions. Proposed resolutions that are accepted by the General Assembly, are presented to appropriate conservation related

organizations for action soon after the convention. CFM’s process of resolution development at the convention empowers citizens to influence conservation policies in Missouri and to use CFM as a way to speak for conservation. CFM’s Board of Directors meets to consider proposed strategic approaches and projects that will best serve conservation and to approve associated budgets.

Convention attendees have an opportunity to enjoy interacting with conservation-minded

folks with diverse interests in social settings. Conservationists of all types will be there including CFM members; conservation professionals; student members of the Conservation Leadership Corps; and representatives from many of CFM’s affiliates and partners. Conservationists always enjoy this annual opportunity to come together to focus on conservation successes as well as challenges. Individuals and groups are recognized at the annual awards ceremony and students receiving

CFM scholarships are introduced. On Saturday evening all enjoy a wonderful banquet, music and live and silent auctions of donated items to support CFM programs.

Visit the CFM website for a detailed schedule of convention events. You and your family can easily register to attend the convention with the form found within this magazine. Bring other conservation-minded acquaintances with you who will become CFM members when they register to attend. The event is a great way to catch up with old friends and meet new conservationists who share your same passion and interests. This is sure to be a rewarding experience as well as a real hoot. If this becomes your and your families first CFM convention I would expect we will see you again next year.

Whether you are a hunter, angler, camper, hiker, bird watcher or anything in between we invite you to come see what the Conservation Federation of Missouri is all about.

Yours in Conservation.

Al VogtPresident, CFM

CFM Convention March 20-22, 2015 - A Grand Opportunity

prEsiDEnt’s mEssagE

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 7

Keynote Session

Come Home To Conservation79th CFM Annual Convention - REGISTER NOW!

Capitol Plaza Hotel ~ Jefferson City, MO

CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTSAnnual Conservation Awards Ceremony Meet Conservation & Natural Resource LeadersNatural Resource Committee Reports Affiliates LuncheonBanquet Silent & Live Auctions

CONVENTION-AT-A-GLANCEFRIDAY, MARCH 20 SATURDAY, MARCH 21

7:30 - 5:00 pm Registration Open

8:00 - 9:30 pm Live Auction

9:00 - 12:30 pm Resource Committee Meetings

12:30 - 2:00 pm Lunch Break (on your own)

12:30 - 2:00 pm Board Members & Affiliate Leaders Luncheon

2:00 - 4:00 pm Resolution Committee Meeting

5:00 - 6:30 pm

5:00 - 6:30 pm Social & Silent Auction

REGISTRATION FORM (clip & mail)

Name(s): ______________________________________

Address: _____________________________________

_____________________________________________

Telephone: ___________________________________

Email: _______________________________________

Credit Card #: _________________________________

Expiration Date: ________________________________

Signature: _____________________________________

Special Needs (i.e. dietary, access, room, handicap):______________________________________________

ACCOMMODATIONSLodging arrangements must be made directly with the Capitol Plaza Hotel at(573) 635-1234 or (800) 338-8088Room rates are $88/night for single or double occupancy while room block lasts

2015 Awards Ceremony is sponsored byBass Pro Shops

(#1) Member Package - All sessions, AwardsCeremony, Access to exhibits/silent auction.

(#2) Non Member Package - All sessions, AwardsCeremony, Access to exhibits/silent auction, One year CFM Membership.

* No registration fee for spouses NOT attending meetings* No registration fee for children 18 and under to attend meetings

* Banquet fees are separate

First Time Attendee

Registration Packages Quantity Registration Fee

(#1) Member Pkg ~ $40.00/person $

(#2) Non Member Pkg ~ $60.00/person $

Banquet ~ $40.00/person:

Capitol Ribeye Steak $

Maple Lacquered Salmon $

Pasta Primavera (Vegetarian Option) $

Children Banquet ~ $15.00/person:

Chicken Strips and Fries $

Total Registration: $

6:30 - 7:30 pm Social Hour

Mail Registration To:CFM728 West Main StreetJefferson City, MO  65101

Subject to change

6:30 - 8:00 pm Banquet

8:00 - 8:45 am

7:00 - 8:00 am Breakfast (on your own)

7:30 - 9:30 pm Annual Conservation AwardsCeremony

2:00 - 5:00 pm Registration Open

Dinner Break (on your own)

SUNDAY, MARCH 22

7:00 - 8:00 am Breakfast (on your own)

8:00 - 10:00 am General Assembly

ImmediatelyFollowingGeneralAssembly

CFM Board & BusinessMeeting

Award Ceremony RSVP ~ Number of Guests _____

RegistrationForm_RegistrationForm.qxd 12/16/2014 3:34 PM Page 1

8 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 9

Drury Hotels is proud to call St. Louis, Missouri home. In all 130 of our hotels, including 21 in St. Louis, our guests

enjoy award-winning friendly service and free amenities:

Drury Plaza Hotel at the ArchHistoric renovation of the 1919 International Fur Exchange Building, the Thomas Jefferson Building

and the American Zinc Building in downtown St. Louis, Missouri.

Free Hot Breakfast •Free Hot Food & Cold Beverages at the 5:30 Kickback® •

Free Wireless Internet & Long Distance Calls • Microwave & Refrigerator in Every Room •

24-Hour Business & Fitness Centers •Pools with Whirlpools •

Now offering a 10% discount for CFM Members DruryHotels.com | 1-800-DRURYINN

1 0 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

As another legislative ses-sion begins, once again we see bills filed that could change the way the De-

partment of Conservation operates or how it is structured and funded. Of course, this is not breaking news. Hardly a year goes by that some legislator doesn’t introduce a bill targeting the Department. The

reasons for this special attention by politicians are varied and to a large degree we are witnessing a democratic process fueled by a political tension created by Missouri voters in 1936 and 1976.

Tired of seeing the land, water, and wildlife of Mis-souri abused and relegated to political whim, voters amended the state constitution in 1936, creating the Conservation Commission and giving the Commission extensive authority. Formation of the Commission was a powerful statement about trust and the failings of politically driven decision-making when it comes to the management of fish and wildlife resources. Indeed, the primary objective for the constitutional amendment as stated by the first Commission was “to protect, as far as legally possible, the administration of the state’s wildlife resources from the influence of partisan politics.”

When Missouri voters decided to dedicate sales tax money to conservation in 1976, another important state-ment was made about trust and commitment. Voters ap-proved the Commission’s vision for the future expressed in the Design for Conservation plan, believing that leg-islators would never adequately support these ambitious goals. Voters also tacitly agreed that all citizens, not just hunters and anglers, should carry the burden of cost for managing resources that belong to all citizens.

The actions of 1936 and 1976 are among the most im-portant voter-supported decisions ever made in favor of conservation nationally, and fulfilled a vision first articu-lated by Aldo Leopold as part of the American Game Policy, adopted in 1930. The Policy described a pathway for conservation success including the need for trained professionals, cooperation between interest groups, the need for multi-disciplinary work, and the importance of adequate funding. The Policy emphasized the need for agencies to have freedom from “political overturns” and influence, enough authority to govern its own work, and that the costs should be carried by everyone because the work of conservation results in “public betterments.”

After all of these years and given that bit of history, you’d think the future of the Commission, its authority,

and funding would be relatively secure; however, the impact of legislative term limits, today’s strange political climate, and personal political agendas annually bring forward new reasons to debate the work of conserva-tion, whether they be good or bad.

I can forgive legislators for not knowing or under-standing the conservation history of America and Mis-souri’s role in that history. I can understand the debate about legislative control over Conservation, and I can even understand why some people feel we should re-visit the decisions made by voters so many years ago. Hav-ing worked for the Department, there are things I would change immediately if I could; however, the Commission structure, authority, and funding are not anywhere on my list.

Ultimately, the Department is accountable to the citizens of this state. It is the right of the citizenry to challenge the relevance of the Missouri Model of Conser-vation and to question whether this model serves us well or should be replaced with another. A vote on the Com-mission’s authority or funding might seem like a reason-able test of the agency’s relevance and public priority; however, the risks are huge and should not to be taken lightly. A public grassroots effort would offer some guarantee that a crises is in the making and a public debate is needed. But a push for change from corners of the legislature for obscure reasons do not offer the same guarantee, and carry motives not in the best interest of fish, forest, and wildlife conservation, or the people of Missouri. Beware of politicians offering solutions to problems that don’t exist.

Dan Zekor

Conservation Tension

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 1 1

Paris Amend, West Plains

T. Armstrong, Saint Louis

Terrance Barber, Saint Louis

John & Kathy Blankenbeker, Camdenton

Andrew Blunt, Jefferson City

Gerry Boehm, O’Fallon

Gary Brehe, Washington

Yvonne Buchheit, Columbia

Patricia Chambers, Belle

Joseph Chilton, Pomona

Gerald & Shirley Clary, Springfield

Stephen Clubine, Windsor

Curt Coonce, Cape Girardeau

Greg Cooper, Monroe City

Angela Corson, Warrensburg

James Covington, Ballwin

Mark Cowart, Kearney

Dan Dickneite, Mokane

Anthony Elliott, Jacksonville

Gregory Elliston, Harrisonville

Betsy Enger, Saint Louis

Jerome Evans, Warrensburg

David Gulick, Saint Louis

Rebecca Haefner, Milwaukee, WI

Jordon Hargrove, Columbia

Travis Hargrove, Columbia

Charles Harr, Arnold

David Hazelrigg, Ash Grove

Kenneth Hefner, Blue Springs

Todd Henry, Huntsville

Wayne Hoffman, Saint Charles

Bryan Hovorka, Lawson

Bryan Hurt, Oak Grove

Randy James, Warsaw

Gil Kauffmann, House Springs

Bruce Kirk, Bates City

Susan Lammert, Saint Louis

Bill Lewis, Maplewood

Nick Love, Chesterfield

Michael Lucas, Harrisonville

Tyler Mahoney, Lees Summit

Lawrence Manser, Ridgedale

Thomas McCrackin, Chesterfield

Joseph Micciche, Williamson, NY

Milton Mullinax, Point Lookout

Scott Paine, Willard

Gerald Pelzel, Centralia

William Pfieger, Ashland

Jon Quarles, Saint Louis

Benjamin Rassieur, Saint Louis

Paul Ratliff, Saint Louis

James Rice, Laquey

Tim Rieke, Jefferson City

Mark Rogers, Saint Louis

Jeffrey Roth, Saint Mary

Matt Sanford, Columbia

Walter Schirr, Warrenton

Gerald Schmidt, Chillicothe

Marvin Schoenecke, Point Lookout

Mark Schwartz, Jefferson City

Kylie Sellers, Vandalia, IL

Jimmy Sexton, Neosho

Robert Sherwood, Saint Louis

Mark Sides, Saint Louis

Brian Skinner, Arnold

Margaret Slayton, Saint Joseph

Marion Smith, Saint Louis

Cody Snyder, Novinger

Richard Sonner, Lees Summit

Daniel Stark, Eldon

Caryn Sterling, Fenton

Edward Sterling, Fenton

Thomas Stillman, Saint Louis

Bill Sullivan, Fayette

Terry Supple, Saint Joseph

Michael Talley, Lees Summit

Darrell Taylor, Camdenton

Ron Throckmorton, Glencoe

Harriet Weger, Jackson

Barbara Wenzelburger, Saint Louis

Susan Williams, Kansas City

Kenneth Wilson, Warsaw

John Winkelman, Crystal City

Darin Wood, Saint Louis

Brian Wright, Branson

CFM would like to thank the 310 members that renewed since our last publication.

C F M N E W M E M B E R SWELCOME

1 2 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

Winter is a rough time. Cold winds drive up heating bills and cabin fever becomes a reality. My father always said, “You endure a bad winter to be rewarded by a beautiful

spring.” This is especially true for wildlife.Thankfully March, is the gateway to spring. Let’s take

a look at how several species survive this roughest part of winter and how they will fare this spring:

January and part of February makes wildlife survival a challenge. Larger animals like deer dig through ice and snow with their hooves to find meager tidbits. Coyotes, foxes and birds of prey are rewarded with small game that has few places to hide. Rabbits, rodents and quail with the best cover and food sources probably will make it. Many will not. They have a low survival percentage and generally a good reproduction rate. Let’s take a closer look at other species:

FISH - Fish survival depends on amounts of oxygen that filters through the ice. Snow lying for long periods on a shallow frozen pond is disastrous. Sun penetrating through the ice helps create oxygen that is badly needed for fish survival. Fish in deeper pools have a greater chance of survival.

BOBWHITE QUAIL - Bobwhite quail will change habitat a lot every winter,” said Elsa Gallagher, upland wildlife coordinator. “They spend more time near shrub-type cover with bare ground underneath or cornfields when available. They will likely stay in coveys around their chosen habitat until April . Then they will split up in pairs to breed.”

However, quail pair up early during unseasonably warm March weather. Then they start nesting and may have an early hatch of chicks. Some biologists claim they might nest again while others believe breeding is once each spring.

A wet spring is devastating to quail. Nests may be washed out and young birds catch hypothermia or pneumonia. Predators like black snakes, foxes, coyotes or even house cats take their share of baby quail that are about the size of a bumblebee.

OTHER BIRDS - “A certain group are permanent

residents here like chick-a-dees and nuthatches,” said Brad Jacobs, ornithologist. “We will see different species migrating into this area as spring progresses. Geese and swans have already moved into this area and stayed while some pushed on through. But ducks will soon be arriving. They will move north when open water is present.”

March is considered the time for short-distance migrants who are generally seedeaters. Robins, field

sparrows and other species that winter in the southern United States move north, eventually passing through our area.

Long-distance migrants that mainly eat insects start moving in from the tropics. This might include warblers, fly catchers and orioles. Hummingbirds follow the same pattern. Long distance species will nest in May. They generally stay in the northern states two to three months before returning south.

Great horned owls, bluebirds, red tailed hawks and species that build nests inside tree cavities or boxes will likely start nesting in late February and March. Some may be in open nests, braving the weather. Babies stay under their parents for warmth. But an extra layer of fat also insulates younger birds, especially birds that are eating well.

WILD TURKEYS - Wild turkeys fare well in the worst conditions by finding food while digging through snow, ices and mud with their sharp claws. Adult birds provide quite a fight against most predators with their strong wings and sharp spurs. Yet folks who walk through woodlots will occasionally find a pile of feathers that belonged to the turkey that lost a violent fight.

You can still see big flocks of hens and young birds feeding in open row crop fields. Toms occasionally join them. However, toms always roost in different locations than hens or young birds.

Toms and hens will eventually separate into smaller groups for their spring ritual of breeding and then nesting. Most toms are in bachelor groups. This group of four or five toms spends a great deal of time establishing dominance or their pecking order. Generally an old long bearded gobbler will be the dominant bird that does most of the breeding.

Winter To Spring

Soon my friends, soon! Photo credit: Kenneth L. Kieser.

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 1 3

Throughout April the toms start gobbling to answer hens clucking, yelping or purring. Toms, in fact, gobble at most loud noises during this sensitive period. They consider themselves kings of the timber in April.

Bred hens go to nests from middle April to the middle of May and toms are left to find other hens or to feed and rest. Soon the chicks will be running around and gobblers return to their bachelor groups for some peace and quiet.

Spring will soon be here!

Kenneth L. Kieser

1 4 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

AFFILIATE EVENTS

AUDUBON SOCIETY OF MISSOURIMar 14: Public Field Trip, Return of the Twilight Timberdoodle Trek Forum Nature Area, Songbird Station, Columbia (7:00pm); Kevin Wehner (573) 815-0352Mar 28: Public Field Trip, Gans Creek Restoration Area, Songbird Station, Columbia (8:00am); Louise Flenner (573) 268-7468aPr 18: Public Field Trip, Prairie Garden Trust, New BloomfieldaPr 24: Spring Meeting, Saint Louis

BURROUGHS AUDUBON SOCIETY OF GREATER KANSAS CITYMar 3: Warblers: Fancy Flights of Frustration, Discovery Center Auditorium (6:00pm - 8:30pm)Mar 7: Bird Banding, Fleming Park, Blue Springs (10:00am - 1:00pm)

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATIONMar 6-8: Trout Fishing – Lake TaneycomoMar 11: Dan Zerr Speaking on Turkey SeasonMar 23: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion, Brentwood (7:30pm)aPr 8: Water Safety ProgramaPr 27: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion, Brentwood (7:30pm)

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF MEAT PROCESSORSMar 6: 76th Annual Convention and Trade ShowaPr 17: Quad State Convention

MISSOURI DELTA WATERFOWLMar 28: Trail of Tears Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Jackson (5:00pm); Danny Hens-ley (573) 379-6757aPr 22: Central Missouri Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Columbia (5:00pm); Scott Snow (573) 445-3405

MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITEDMar 4: Greater Kansas City Dinner, Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Richard Woody (913) 905-2150 or Daniel Lacy (816) 918-1558Mar 7: Saline County Dinner, Fairgrounds, Marshall (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Jeff Knott (660) 202-3422Mar 7: Christian County 14th Annual Banquet, Event Center, Nixa (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Scott Lam-beth (417) 838-8441 or Jared Doty (417) 766-1826Mar 7: Mid East Missouri Dinner, Festus (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Jamie or Matt Morgan (636) 797-2275Mar 13: Saint Peters Dinner, All Occasions, Saint Charles (5:30pm - 9:00pm); Don Molitor (636) 970-1114

Mar 14: Lees Summit - Glenn D. Chambers Din-ner, Lakewood Oaks Golf Course Club House, Lees Summit (5:00pm - 9:00pm); Tony Berter (816) 763-8282, Shelly Hornbuckle (816) 462-3198 or Glenn Chambers (573) 445-9773Mar 14: River Bend Annual Sportsman’s Dinner, Eagles Lodge, New Madrid (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Jonathan Riggs (573) 748-0890Mar 14: Platte City Dinner, Fairgrounds (6:00pm - 9:30pm); Eric Greenwell (816) 532-3202Mar 21: Tri Lakes - Branson Annual Banquet, Big Cedar Lodge, Branson (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Matt Hogenson (417) 331-0203, Ryan Zeller (417) 335-4835 or Ryan Sifford (417) 294-5040Mar 21: Missouri State Convention, Stoney Creek Inn, Columbia (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Sharon Koch (314) 707-4993, Ginny Zinck (660) 460-0031 or Todd Carlton (573) 893-7449Mar 28: Saint Joseph Dinner, Moila Country Club, Saint Joseph (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Tyce VanMater (816) 262-7678 or Chris Thompson (816) 383-2410Mar 28: Lake Stockton Dinner, Zumwalt Expo Center (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Mike & Jan Grady (785) 691-8491Mar 28: Troy Dinner, Lincoln County Fairgrounds, Troy (5:00pm - 10:00pm); Shane Creasy (636) 322-9747aPr 11: Grand Rivers Sponsor Event, Knights of Columbus Hall, Chillicothe (5:30pm - 8:30pm); David Hamilton (660) 247-0825, Allen Jeffries (660) 247-0705 or Tim Reger (660) 247-5596aPr 11: Bluff City Mallards Annual Sportsman’s Dinner, Black River Coliseum, Poplar Bluff (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Grant Collins (573) 718-9737 or Eric Blaich (573) 776-4313aPr 18: Saint Louis - Mid County Dinner, Elks Lodge, Saint Louis (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Sam Kopsic (314) 229-5138 or Joe Kopsic (314) 255-7366aPr 18: Monroe City Dinner, Knights of Columbus Hall, Monroe City (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Todd Carlton (573) 415-6697 or David Willis (573) 248-6711aPr 24: John R. Belz Tribute Dinner, Palladium Event Center, Saint Louis (5:30pm - 9:00pm); Todd Carlton (573) 415-6697, Hank Belz (314) 791-1131 or Mike Checkett (901) 277-9118

MISSOURI HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR’S ASSOCIATIONMar 6-8: Annual Conference, Country Club Hotel, Lake Ozark

MISSOURI HUNTING HERITAGE FEDERATIONMar 14: Spring Fling Shoot & Family Fun Day, Lake Lotawana Sportsman’s Club (9:00am - 6:00pm)Mar 28-29: Youth Hunter Education Clinic, Baier’s Den Hunting Preserve, Peculiar; Steve Rulo (816) 987-3336aPr 11-12: Youth Hunter Education Clinic & Turkey Hunt, Lake Lotawana Sportsman’s Club

MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION FUNDRAISING BANQUETSMar 3: Current River Longbeards, MO Baptist As-sembly, Van Buren; Delbert Dewolf (573) 323-4789

Mar 6: Stealth Gobblers, Elks Lodge, Warrens-burg; David McCannon (660) 747-8260Mar 6: Rocky Top Limbhangers, Armory, West Plains; Larry Lindeman (417) 256-0980Mar 6: Parkville Gobblers, Athletic Complex, Parkville; John Shene (816) 365-2853Mar 6: Warren County Strutters, American Legion, Warrenton; Amy Mergelmeyer (636) 221-1538Mar 6: Osage Prairie Thunderin Toms, Eagles Lodge, Nevada; Bruce Rogers (417) 876-2521Mar 7: Four Rivers, Knights of Columbus Hall, Washington; Eldo Meyer (573) 484-3102Mar 7: Turkey Creek Longbeards, Briarbrook Country Club, Terry Greer (417) 434-6745Mar 7: Mark Twain Forest Longspurs, Lions Club, Potosi; Tony Hollinsworth (573) 438-2219Mar 7: Sho-Me, White River Banquet Hall, Spring-field; Matthew Kramer (417) 839-6366Mar 7: Young’s Creek Strutters, Nick & Noah’s, Centralia; Eddie Schultz (573) 682-1900Mar 7: Platte Purchase, Knights of Columbus Hall, Saint Joseph; Edward Helsel (816) 596-0513Mar 7: Yellow Creek Gobblers, Walsworth Com-munity Building, Marceline; Dennis Paalhar (660) 537-3459Mar 12: Bayou Strutters, Top of the Town Banquet Hall, East Prairie; Clinton Wolford (573) 225-9084Mar 13: Lake of the Ozarks Chapter, Tri County Convention Center, Versailles; Kurt Heisler (573) 569-0550Mar 13: Lake Show-Me Longbeards, VFW Post 4958, Memphis; Chris Comstock (660) 216-0634Mar 13: Carman Springs Longbeards, Willow Springs R-4 Elementary Cafeteria, Willow Springs; Terry Newton (417) 469-2881Mar 14: Heartland Gobblers American Legion, Poplar Bluff; Chuck Stewart Farms (573) 222-7182Mar 14: Randolph County Longbeards, Saint Pius X Gymnasium, Moberly; Larry Terry (660) 651-8636Mar 14: Nemo, American Legion, Palmyra; Travis Moore (573) 231-2859Mar 14: Cooper County Limbhangers, Knights of Columbus Hall, BoonvilleMar 20: Marshfield Full Strutters, Marshfield Buildings, Marshfield; Kenny Jones (417) 689-2104Mar 20: Lake Area Longbeards, Old Kinderhook Resort, Camdenton; Charles McElyea (573) 216-2769Mar 20: Putnam County Chapter, Putnam County High School Commons, Unionville; Joe Ream (660) 341-0895Mar 21: Big River Gobblers, Knights of Columbus Hall, House Springs; Rich Christopher (636) 274-2574Mar 21: Truman Lake Chapter, Benson Conven-tion Center, Clinton; Thomas Paul (660) 351-0788Mar 21: River Hills Thunderin Longbeards, Knights of Columbus Hall, Bloomsdale; Butch Stephens (573) 543-2165Mar 21: Kirksville Ridge Runners, NEMO Fair-grounds, Kirksville; Josh Meyer (660) 665-4300Mar 27: Pike County Twin River, Elks Lodge, Louisiana; Tim Brooks (573) 754-6692

CALENDARM I S S 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

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 1 5

Mar 27: Reynolds County, Reynolds County Fair-grounds, Redford; Gary Black (573) 637-9344Mar 28: Saline County Strutters, Saline County Fairgrounds, Marshall; Joe Pycke (660) 631-3407Mar 28: North Central Local, Elks Lodge, Chilli-cothe; Bill Wehrle (660) 646-4362Mar 28: Summit Ridge Longbeards, Saint Andrews Catholic Church Gymnasium, Holts Summit; Jeff Demand (573) 289-0401aPr 4: Lewis County Strutters, Queen of Peace Par-ish, Ewing; Ron Richardson (660) 462-3640aPr 4: Platte City Longspurs, Platte County Fair-grounds, Tracy; Brandon Biddle (573) 719-6077aPr 10: Meramec Valley Strutters, Knights of Columbus Hall, Sullivan; Dennis Twyman (573) 468-5010aPr 10: Carroll County Longbeards, Rupe Center, Carrollton; Joe McCumber (660) 322-0801aPr 11: State Fair Strutters, MEC Building - Mis-souri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia; Charles Mattingly (660) 827-0758aPr 16: Mid-State, Stoney Creek Inn, Columbia; Jody Martin (573) 999-9024aPr 17: Green Hills, National Guard Armory, Tren-ton; Robin Chambers (660) 654-1192aPr 18: Hocomo Big Beards, Knights of Columbus Hall, Glascow; Gene Smith (660) 537-4667aPr 18: Muddy Creek Gobblers, Thiebaud Audito-rium, Lamar; Jared Chestnut (417) 682-3767aPr 24: Spring River Toms, Memorial Hall, Car-thage; Jerry Hartman (417) 793-0310aPr 24: Triple B Chapter - Buffalo Big Birds, Double Diamond Banquet Building, Buffalo; Travis Pierce (417) 840-8761aPr 25: Gentry County Gobblers, Tri Meadows, Conception Junction; Tim Runde (660) 937-2580

MISSOURI PARKS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATIONfeB 3: TORO Maintenance Workshop, Central Maintenance District, Kansas City (8:00am)feB 5: TORO Maintenance Workshop, Greene County Botanical Center - Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, Springfield (8:00am)feB 24-27: Conference and Expo, SpringfieldfeB 24: Board Meeting, Springfield

MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATIONMar 28: Grow Native! Plant Sale, Runge Con-servation Nature Center, Jefferson City (10:00am - 2:00pm)Mar 31: Introduction to Missouri’s Raptors, Con-servation Nature Center, SpringfieldaPr 18: Annual Kansas City Native Plant Sales, City Market, Kansas City (8:00am - 1:00pm)aPr 25: Annual Kansas City Native Plant Sales, City Market, Kansas City (8:00am - 1:00pm)

MISSOURI RIVER BIRD OBSERVATORYMar 9: Bird Banding Demonstration, Birds-I-View, Jefferson City

MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCEMar 17: Monthly Meeting, American Legion, Saint Louis (7:00pm - 9:00pm)Mar 28: Missouri Ozarks Wide Sign Posting BlitzaPr 11: Water Quality Monitoring Outing, Mineral Fork (9:00am); Tim Kirchhoff (636) 579-0126aPr 13: Water Quality Monitoring Outing, Glaize Creek, Barnhart (9:00am ); Tim Kirchhoff (636) 579-0126aPr 21: Monthly Meeting, American Legion, Saint Louis (7:00pm - 9:00pm)

MISSOURI SPORT SHOOTING ASSOCIATIONaPr 4: Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet, Ameri-can Legion, Columbia (2:00pm)

MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITEDMar 7: Monroe City Area Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Monroe CityMar 7: Muddy Water Banquet, Knights of Colum-bus Hall, Old MonroeMar 14: Southwest Missouri Chapter Banquet, Saint Mary’s Activity Center, Pierce CityMar 21: Miller County Chapter Banquet, Mary’s Home School Gymnasium, EugeneMar 21: Audrain County Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge, MexicoMar 28: Long Branch Chapter Banquet, Macon County Expo Center, MaconaPr 4: Big Bucks Chapter Banquet, Lions Club, HarrisburgaPr 18: Pike County Twin Rivers Chapter Banquet, Pike County Fairgrounds, Bowling Green

MULE DEER FOUNDATIONaPr 18: Ha Ha Tonka Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge – CBO Event Center, Columbia (5:00pm); Matt Bentz (573) 207-3794

OPEN SPACE COUNCILaPr 25-26: Native Tree Planting, Queeny Park, Ballwin

OZARK FLY FISHERSMar 26: General Membership Meeting, Queeny Park, Ballwin(7:00pm)aPr 23: General Membership Meeting, Queeny Park, Ballwin (7:00pm)

OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUBMar 14: Snake Saturday Parade, North Kansas City (8:30 am - 12:00pm)Mar 14: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm - 7:30pm)Mar 28: Blue River Cleanup, Lakeside Nature Center, Kansas City(8:00am - 12:00pm)

aPr 11: Water Quality Testing, Ridge Trail, Kansas City (10:00am - 11:00am)aPr 11: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm - 7:30pm)aPr 11: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm - 9:00pm)aPr 13: Dining Hall Cleanup, Camp Lake of the Woods - Swope Park (10:00am - 11:00am)

POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES, INC.Mar 4-8: Saint Louis Sport ShowMar 28: Border War Tournament, Pomme de Terre Lake; Jim Ashton (314) 368-8927aPr 17-18: No Ice Challenge, Pomme de Terre Lake; George Donner (816) 678-1623

QUAIL FOREVER & PHEASANTS FOREVERMar 7: West Central Annual Banquet, Elks Lodge, Harrisonville (5:30pm); Tom Lampe (816) 884-4862Mar 7: Missouri State Habitat Convention, Court-yard by Marriott, Columbia (8:00am - 9:30pm); John Wallace (937) 459-8085Mar 14: Missouri River Valley Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge, Washington (5:00pm); Arvil Kappel-mann (636) 239-4127, Larry Hanks (573) 237-2623, Terry Stricklin (573) 764-2398 or Bill Miller (636) 239-2481Mar 21: Green Hills Banquet, Elks Lodge, Brook-field (5:00pm); Emily Creech (660) 621-0487

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATIONMar 7: Mid Missouri Big Game Banquet, Columbia; Adam Augustine (573) 397-2207Mar 7: Missouri Ridge Big Game Banquet, Troy; Chris Kaimann (636) 775-3164Mar 21: Southwest Missouri Big Game Banquet, Joplin; Rocky Swearingen (417) 438-4928Mar 21: Pony Express Big Game Banquet, Saint Joseph; Michael Mooney (816) 232-9553

SAINT LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETYMar 7: Beginner Bird Walk, Forest Park, Saint Louis (7:30am - 10:00am)Mar 7: Woodcock /Owl Prowl, August A. Busch Memorial Area, Saint Charles (5:00pm - 8:00pm)Mar 14: Birding Field Trip, Horseshoe Lake State Park, Granite City, IL (8:00am - 5:00pm)Mar 21: Confluence Trash Bash, Saint Louis (8:00am - 5:00pm)Mar 26: Africa Program, Saint Louis County Library - Samuel C. Sachs Branch, Chesterfield (6:00pm - 9:00pm)

CFM EVENTSMar 20-22: Annual Convention, Capitol Plaza Hotel, Jefferson CityMaY 9: Kansas City Regional Event, Bass Pro Shops & Stoney Creek Inn, Independence

The Conservation Federation of Missouri represents Missourians for the conservation of natural resources and protection of our outdoor heritage.

1 6 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 1 7

If you live in Missouri and are a se-rious deer hunter, then there’s a good chance you know Dan Vogt. If you don’t know Dan, he’s our regional director for Whitetails Unlimited, and was named the Field Director of the Year for the third time.

However, for Dan, it isn’t about the awards. It is about helping local chapters. Whether that is coordinat-ing projects, or promoting education and conservation efforts in the state, Dan is always ready to help out.

“It is truthfully an honor to be rec-ognized at a national level. However it is our amazing membership base around the state that should really be recognized. They are the ones who show their unwavering support day after day,” Dan said.

Dan’s fortunate to have a career with Whitetails Unlimited doing what he loves, which is encouraging conser-vation and participation in hunting. His work also affords the opportunity to enjoy some spectacular hunts. So when Dan told me he had experi-enced the hunt of his life, I knew I had to hear about it.

The story wasn’t what I expected. He didn’t tell me about a double drop tine booner closing inside 20 yards. It wasn’t a story about a state record, or some big nasty freak. In fact, it wasn’t about antlers at all. The story of Dan’s best hunt ever was of his then 8 year old son, Jacob, killing his first deer.

Jacob Vogt is your average boy. He enjoys spending time with his daddy, going to school and playing video games. Deer hunting doesn’t consume him, yet, but since it is so impor-tant to his dad, Jacob has gravitated towards it. When he recalled to me the story of killing his first deer, a big healthy doe, there was excitement in his eyes, especially each time he looked up at his father as if to recon-

firm the admiration being bestowed. Like many young folks, and quite

a few of us older guys too, Jacob doesn’t like sitting still for long. So when Dan and Jacob decided to call it quits on their ground blind hunt, they figured their chances of success were over. But on the way back to the truck they jumped a group of deer from a ditch. They formulated a plan to sneak up on them and it worked.

“I was like 50/50 on whether or not I should take the shot, but I did, and I got her,” Jacob said.

Dan said it was really a pretty close shot and Jacob made it count. To young eyes 60 yards is a mile. Con-sider buck fever and shaking hands, and it’s easy to understand how the youngster was hesitant to pull the trigger.

“I was so excited because I shot and I thought right away that I got it. I started calling all my family. I called grandma first because she’s the clos-est, just across the street,” Jacob said.

Dan said it was hard to put into words how much it meant to him to pass the tradition of hunting on to his son. Here’s a guy whose career

is based on turning people into deer hunters and deer hunters into con-servationists, but his ultimate reward was passing the torch to his own son.

“When I grow up I might work for my dad, maybe. If I’m not a profes-sional swimmer,” Jacob said.

Well, whether or not Jacob ends up working for Whitetails Unlimited really doesn’t matter much. What matters is that at such a young age, he’s an advocate with a story to tell. A story he’ll recount to his friends that may create a desire in them to venture into the deer woods. Hope-fully, they’ll create their own story.

Brandon ButlerExecutive Director, CFM

Dan Vogt of Whitetails Unlimited Wins Field Director of the Year

Dan and his son Jacob on a turkey hunt in 2012.

Jacob poses with his deer after a successful hunt with his dad.

1 8 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 1 9

2 0 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently announced that it will receive $1.3 million in federal grant

monies from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help private landowners in Missouri improve grasslands, glades, and woodlands on their properties for both wildlife habitat and agriculture production.

As the Conservation Commission approves annual expenditure plans, MDC plans to match the federal grant monies over the next five years through its existing Private Lands Services program.

The $1.3 million in federal dollars was provided through the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The purpose of the RCPP is to further the conservation,

restoration, and sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife, and related natural resources by providing cost-share and incentives to private landowners.

“The Missouri Department of Conservation has a proven track record of successfully implementing USDA conservation programs and we have brought millions in federal cost-share dollars to Missouri landowners,” said MDC Private Land Services Division Chief Bill White. “Our partnership with the USDA is a national model.”

MDC’s Private Land Services staff provides expert advice and assistance to more than 29,000 private landowners in Missouri each year to help integrate forest, fish and wildlife management with agriculture production to help landowners reach their land management goals. These services often

include financial assistance through cost-share grant monies from the Department and other sources.

White explained that the cost-share grant monies will be dedicated to enhancing grasslands in northern and western Missouri for both livestock grazing and wildlife such as quail, and will include MDC Quail Focus Areas and grassland Conservation Opportunity Areas. The funds will also be focused on restoring glade and woodland habitats in the Ozarks of southeastern Missouri through cost-share funds and incentives for forest landowners.

“Quality of the land for both livestock and wildlife is one of our main concerns, and programs such as these that help us reach our goals are greatly appreciated,” said Dennis Puppe, president of the Harrison County Cattleman’s Association.

“We endorse the RCPP for glades and woodlands in southeast Missouri and offer to assist the Department of Conservation with regional outreach and education to promote healthy and sustainable woodlands,” said Jim Summers, executive director of the Missouri Forest and Woodland Association.

For more information on the Department’s Private Lands Services and cost-share-grant-funding opportunities, contact an MDC Regional Office or local MDC Private Land Conservationist. Find both online at mdc.mo.gov under LOCAL CONTACTS.

Joe JerekNews Services Coordinator, MDC

agEncy nEws - DEpartmEnt of consErvation

MDC to Match $1.3 million in Federal Dollars to Help Missouri Landowners with

Key Habitat Conservation

J. R. Flores, Missouri State Conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (left) and Director of the Missouri Department of Conservation Bob Ziehmer (right) sign contracts that will provide more than one million dollars in federal funds to MDC for habitat conservation by Missouri private landowners. Photo credit: MDC.

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 2 1

agEncy nEws - DEpartmEnt of consErvation

Missouri’s 2014-2015 deer-hunting closed January 15 with the conclusion of the state’s

archery season. The Missouri Depart-ment of Conservation reported that the total deer harvest for the current season was 260,552, which is 7,978 more than the 252,574 deer checked during the previous year.

Hunters checked 51,755 deer during the current archery season with top counties being Jefferson with 1,080, St. Louis with 1,063 and Franklin with 1,032. The harvest for the previous year’s deer archery sea-son was 1,248 fewer at 50,507.

The 2014-2015 archery turkey season also closed January 15 with

a total of 2,587 birds checked com-pared to the previous year of 2,546 birds checked. Top counties were Greene with 64, Franklin with 60 and Callaway with 54.

The 2015-2016 archery deer and turkey season will run September 15 through January 15, excluding the November portion of deer season,

Nov. 14 through 24.Conservation makes Missouri a

great place to hunt deer and turkey. For more information, go online to mdc.mo.gov.

Joe JerekNews Services Coordinator, MDC

Missouri Deer-Hunting Season Ends with Harvest of 260,552

Dates for the 2015-2016 firearms deer season are:

Urban portion: October 9 - 12Early youth portion: October 31 - November 1November portion: November 14 - 24Antlerless portion: November 25 - December 6Alternative-methods portion: December 19 - 29Late youth portion: January 2 - 3

Kenneth & Jane Sadler - Columbia, MO, Dean Murphy - Jefferson City, MO,

Tom Russell - Columbia, MO, Ann Allert - Columbia, MO,

Berry & JoAnn Azdell - Mexico, MO, Wayne & Linda Porath - Columbia, MO,

Brian & Mary Lloyd - Columbia, MO, Jim & Rose Hochstatter - Parkville, MO,

Terry & Jean Oberman - Kahoka, MO, Carl & Ann Korschgen - Columbia, MO,

Robert Jacobson - Columbia, MO, Tom & Beth Bankhead - Fayette, MO,

Nancy Brakhage - Columbia, MO, William Pilcher - Mexico, MO

&Honorariums

memorials

In memory of Leroy Korschgen

2 2 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

agEncy nEws - DEpartmEnt of consErvation

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is seeking public input on proposed changes to the state’s deer hunting regulations for the 2016-2017 hunting season.

For the fall firearms deer season, MDC proposes:

• Maintaining the current timing of the November portion but reducing the length from 11 days to nine days,

• Expanding the late youth firearms weekend from two days to three days and having it begin the Friday after Thanksgiving instead of early January,

• Reducing the length of the antlerless firearms portion from 12 days to three days and beginning it on the first Friday in December, and

• Eliminating the urban zones portion.

For the fall archery deer and turkey season, MDC proposes:

• Allowing crossbows as a legal method, and• Reducing the limit of antlered deer during the archery

season from two to one.

MDC also proposes simplifying conservation area regulations and also wants public comment on permit fees for nonresidents regarding a possible increase, decrease, or no change in price.

The proposed regulation changes are a result of public input and MDC deer management research and practices. During the summer of 2014, MDC gathered more than 4,000 public comments on deer management and possible regulation changes through open houses, online comments, letters and emails. MDC also surveyed many deer hunters regarding potential regulation changes. MDC staff will present final regulations recommendations to the Conservation Commission in late 2015.

MDC WELCOMES PUBLIC COMMENT

To explain the proposed changes and gather public feedback, MDC will hold the following public meetings around the state from 5 to 8 p.m.:

• March 3 – MDC Springfield Nature Center, 4601 S Nature Center Way, Springfield;

• March 5 -- West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis Street, West Plains;

• March 10 – MDC Cape Girardeau Nature Center, 2289 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau;

• March 12 – MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore, Kirksville;

• March 16 – MDC Central Regional Office, 3500 E. Gans Road, Columbia; and

• March 31 – MDC Northwest Regional Office, 701 James McCarthy Drive, Saint Joseph.

MDC also welcomes public comments online. To learn more about the proposed regulations, MDC’s deer management plan, past public comments, and to provide comment, visit the Department’s website at mdc.mo.gov/node/28079.

Mail comments to: Missouri Department of Conservation, Attn: Policy Coordination, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

RATIONALE FOR REGULATION CHANGES

MDC expanded the November portion of firearms deer season to 11 days in 1995 in response to a rapidly growing deer population in many parts of the state. Deer numbers in most parts of Missouri are now at or below desired levels. According to MDC biologists, reducing the length of the November portion by two days will help increase those numbers.

The Department’s reasoning for changing the timing of the late youth portion from early January to the weekend after Thanksgiving is that it should increase youth-hunter participation and success as a result of better deer activity and weather conditions. Adding the Friday after Thanksgiving will provide an additional hunting day when schools are closed.

MDC anticipates that reducing the length of the antlerless season from 12 days to three days will help increase deer numbers to more desirable levels. The antlerless portion of the firearms deer season was implemented in 1996 to increase the harvest of female deer, or does, in response to a rapidly growing deer population in many parts of the state. The deer population in most of Missouri is currently at or below desired levels.

According to MDC, eliminating the urban zones portion of the firearms season is being considered because firearms hunting in urban zones is significantly limited by

MDC Seeks Public Input on Proposed Deer Hunting Regulation Changes

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 2 3

city ordinances and safety concerns. As a result, this portion does not significantly lower deer numbers in areas where urban deer conflicts occur.

The department anticipates that allowing crossbows as a legal method during the archery deer and turkey season will help younger hunters enter the sport and also prolong participation for older hunters. MDC research shows that most deer hunters are in favor of allowing crossbows during the archery season and bow hunters are about equally divided on the topic.

Reducing the buck harvest during archery season from two to one per hunter will make hunters more selective and help more bucks reach older age-classes. Regulations allowing bow hunters to harvest two bucks were implemented in 1988 when there were fewer than 100,000 individuals with a permit to hunt deer during the archery season compared to more than 180,000 in 2013. Also, the harvest of bucks by bow hunters has nearly doubled from 11 percent of the total harvest in 2000 to 19 percent in 2013.

The Department anticipates that simplifying deer hunting regulations on conservation areas to archery only, archery and muzzleloader only, or archery and firearms will both increase hunter satisfaction and allow area managers to adjust regulations based on current deer numbers.

MDC permit fees for nonresident hunters are competitive with those of surrounding states and have remained the same since 2009.

Joe JerekNews Services Coordinator, MDC

MDC is seeking public input on proposed deer hunting regulation changes involving firearms season lengths, use of crossbows, archery bag limits, regulations on conservation areas and non-resident permit fees. Photo credit: MDC.

2 4 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

Dr. Charles F. Luebbert, a retired Tipton physician, was recently honored by the Conservation Founda-

tion of Missouri Charitable Trust with their first ever presentation of The Ed Stegner Lifetime Achievement in Conservation Award.

A marble plaque denoting the hon-or was given to Dr. Luebbert in Tip-ton on Sunday, December 21, 2014 in recognition of over seven decades of volunteer conservation work.

“Doc” is the oldest and longest serving member of the Conservation Foundation’s Board of Trustees and is the only living member of the original Board which was established in 1971. He served many years as the Founda-tion’s Chairman.

The Tipton osteopath is well known throughout mid-Missouri having established the Tipton Osteo-pathic Clinic and later the Luebbert Medical Center and serving on the Board of Still Osteopathic Hospital in Jefferson City. He retired in 1994 after 48 years of service to his pa-tients and community but continued his conservation volunteer work.

“Doc” enjoys hunting, fishing and observing wildlife on his farmland, and does what he can to improve his land for wildlife. He was a found-

ing member of the Tipton Farmers and Sportsmen Club and he is a past president of that 50-year old club. He is also a past president of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (1971-1972), serving at a time when the Federation was leading efforts to expand Missouri’s fish, forest and wildlife programs.

The lifelong resident of Tipton loves central Missouri and says there is no better place in the world to live and raise children. “It is important”, he says, “that we do everything we

can to preserve this great outdoor heritage.” Dr. Luebbert and his late wife Vi raised two children, Russell and Lynn (Brauer) of whom he is very proud.

The Ed Stegner Lifetime Achieve-ment Award is the sole honor voted on by the Foundation Trustees and honors the memory of the late Ed Stegner, the long-time executive direc-tor of the Conservation Federation and Hall of Fame conservationist. “Doc” and Ed were very good friends and companion conservationists.

Dr. C.F. Luebbert Honored for Lifetime Achievement in Conservation

Presentation of the Ed Stegner Lifetime Achievement in Conservation Award to Dr. Luebbert. Pictured left to right: Charlie Davidson, Dr. Charles F. Luebbert, and Ike Lovan, Chairman of the Conservation Foundation.

Missouri Wildflowers Nurserymowldflrs@socket.net www.mowildflowers.net

9814 Pleasant Hill Rd, Jefferson City MO 65109573-496-3492, fax: 573-496-3003

You need our excellent catalog - by mail or online.

Douglas Tallamy, author of “Bringing Nature Home” will speak at 4 locations, no charge: March 21, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center 2:30 p.m. registration required; and KU, Lawrence KS, Woodruff Auditorium, 7 p.m., no registrationMarch 28, Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 10:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. Google locations for more information.

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 2 5

March brings with it the first signs of spring and birds returning to their breeding grounds.

Open a window or venture outside early in the morning and the joyous sounds of the world waking up fills the air. Cardinals start welcoming the impending dawn with their rhythm intensifying “chew, chew, chew.” Soon to be followed by an entire chorus of birdsong beckoning in the breaking of dawn.

The landscape also starts to awaken with hints of vibrant hues. Shrubs are among some of the earliest blooming plants. They can add cover for birds and landscape color to your yard. Shrubs also increase the diversity of insects and hence increase the number of bird species that visit your yard.

When evaluating the wildlife value of a shrub and subsequently how it will improve wildlife in your yard, there are a couple of things to consider—how prolific is its pollen and/or nectar for insects and birds? And is it a host plant for insects, especially caterpillars, which feed on the foliage? The better the shrub is at sustaining caterpillars and other invertebrates, on which birds are dependent for food sources, the better the shrub is for sustaining birds.

Early blooming shrubs are especially attractive as they chase away the winter blues and welcome early returning Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Some great native early-blooming shrubs are:

Spice Bush (Lindera benzoin)- An attractive shrub in its own right with an early bloom time of March, this shrub also hosts one of the most desirable butterflies and its equally coveted caterpillar- the Spicebush Swallowtail. Spicebush tolerates shade and can grow to a height of 6-14 ft. Its name comes from the spice fragrance emitted by the leaves and branches. Both male and females plants are needed for berries. It appreciates moist

soil and some shade.Golden Current (Ribes odoratum)-

This 4-6 ft tall, sun-loving, drought-tolerant shrub begins blooming in April with golden trumpet-shaped flowers and a strong clove fragrance, attracting many early pollinators. Delicious berries adorn the plant in late summer, which can be eaten straight off the bush or used in cooking. In the eastern US, members of this family of shrub can host up to 99 different species of caterpillars.

Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum (Viburnam rufidulum)- This Missouri native can get quite tall for a shrub at 12-15 ft and tolerates full to part sun locations. It blooms in April-May with large, white bloom clusters. These

become dark blue berries loved by birds in late summer. Attractive red and purple fall foliage. Viburnums are host plants to many species of caterpillars, including the adorable Hummingbird Clearwing Moth.

Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia)- Another taller Missouri native that can top out at 12-15 ft and succeeds in sun to part shade locations. Bloom time is April to May with stunning, bright red panicles attractive to returning Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Red Buckeye begins to go dormant in late summer and produces shiny buckeyes in fall. This shrub appreciates some moisture and does not like dry conditions.

Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)- one of the most beloved of all Missouri native shrubs for its beauty and ability to thrive in various landscapes. Closely related to the spiraea family, its pink or white spring flowers appear in May or June and resemble those of spiraea. Exfoliating bark creates winter interest. It is also a valuable wildlife shrub, hosting up to 41 different species of caterpillars in the eastern US and loved by beetles that need large flat flowers for their landings- that often lack grace. This shrub can grow 8-9 ft tall and tolerates sun or shade.

Mary Nemecek

Mary Nemecek is the Conservation Chair of Burroughs Audubon, a Missouri Master Naturalist and a CFM and Missouri Prairie Foundation member. Grow Native! is a native plant education and marketing program of the Missouri Prairie Foundation, an affiliate member of CFM. Visit www.grownative.org, Resource Guide, for a list of suppliers of native shrubs and other native plants, seeds, and services.

Spicebush, Swallowtails and Other Yard Swag

Birds need invertebrates like this spicebush swallowtail caterpillar to feed their young; insects like this need to feed on native plants. Want birds? Plant native plants. Photo credit: Mary Nemecek.

2 6 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

Missouri high school fishing clubs will have the opportunity to compete in a new bass tournament circuit beginning in March.

Teen Anglers, LLC. has established a cir-cuit with three qualifying tournaments leading to a cham-pionship in June for all high school clubs in Missouri. Teen Anglers has conformed to a set of rules compiled from the boating laws of the State of Missouri, the Mis-souri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) and Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) regula-tions, and standard rules set forth by the bass tournament industry. MSHSAA is administering bass fishing as an “emerging activity” for high schools throughout the state.

The three qualifying tournaments for the new circuit will be held March 28 at Lake of the Ozarks, April 11 at Stockton Lake and May 16 at Table Rock. The champion-ship is slated for June 13-14 at a location to be announced later. Each team must fish a mini-mum of two tournaments to be eligible to qualify for the championship.

In accordance with MSHSAA rules, all high school students in grades 9-12 must have passed a MSHSAA physical, have a valid fishing license and be knowledge-able of fishing and boating regulations to be eligible for the tournaments. All participants must be supervised by a boat captain. A school sponsor or designated fishing advi-sor for the school district must have assured compliance with all of the MSHSAA requirements for all volunteer boat captains being used in an event.

For more information on the tournament rules and a registration form, visit www.teenanglers.net. MSHSAA rules for Missouri high school anglers and boat captains are available at www.mshsaa.org/Activities/Info/BassFish-ing.aspx. Missouri boating safety laws can be found at www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/WaterPatrol. Visit www.mdc.mo.gov for MDC fishing regulations.

John Neporadny

New Tournament Circuit Set for Missouri

High School Anglers

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 2 7

The Nature Conservancy’s Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland has grown to 587 acres with the

addition of an additional 80 acres, purchased by the Conservancy this month to ensure the prairie system will remain intact.

The Nature Conservancy managed the 80 acres for 30 years through an agreement with owner Marjorie Pursley. Following her death, the Conservancy purchased the property, honoring Ms. Pursley’s wish that the land continue to be managed as native habitat for birds and other wildlife.

“Ms. Pursley asked the Conservancy for help because she loved the property and knew it was special. Marmaton River Bottoms provides a rare and remarkable glimpse into an almost-lost chapter of our natural history,” said Doug Ladd, the Conservancy’s Missouri director of conservation.

Marmaton contains the largest tract of unplowed wet prairie remaining in Missouri and is characterized by open woodlands, marshes, sloughs, and one of the state’s largest concentrations of prairie wetlands. The property is bordered to the east by the Marmaton River.

The Conservancy identified these lands as critical to protect because wet prairie is one of the rarest grassland types on Earth and provides vital wildlife habitat. Additionally, prairie wetlands hold soil and water in place, reducing flooding, erosion, and drought.

Marmaton is open to the public. The site offers stunning scenery and

some of the best birdwatching in the state. Birds found at the preserve include 11 duck species, bald eagles, snipes, sandpipers, double-breasted cormorants, and grebes. In the spring and summer, an assortment of wildflowers are in bloom, including swamp milkweed, prairie ironweed, willow aster, and marsh elder. For information about visiting Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland, visit nature.org/Marmaton.

Amy Hepler WelchOperations & Marketing

CoordinatorThe Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Visit The Nature Conservancy on the Web at www.nature.org.

Nature Conservancy Protects Prairie Wetland in Western Missouri

Double-breasted cormorant. Photo credit: Flickr user Nikon66 (Mark Schuver).

Project expands Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland, which provides refuge for over 120 bird species and almost 250 native flower species.

Open woodlands with a native grass understory at Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland. Photo credit: Dale Blevins.

2 8 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

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 i a t e sAnglers of Missouri, Inc.

Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives

Audubon Society of Missouri

Bass-Hole Bassmasters of Missouri, Inc.

Big Game Hunters, Inc.

Burroughs Audubon Society of Greater Kansas City

Capital City Fly Fishers

Central Missouri Chapter Safari Club International

Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment

Deer Creek Sportsman’s 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

Jefferson County Coon Hunters, Inc.

Katy Land Trust

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 Delta Waterfowl

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 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 Regional Land Trust

Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club

Ozarks Water Watchers

Perry County Sportsman Club

Pomme de Terre Chapter Muskies, Inc.

Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc.

Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever

River Bluffs Audubon Society

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

South Side Division Conservation Federation

Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers

St. Louis Audubon Society

Tipton Farmers & Sportsman’s Club

Troutbusters of Missouri

United Bow Hunters of Missouri

Walnut Council & Other Fine Hardwoods

Wecomo Sportsman’s Club

Wild Elk Institute of Missouri

Windsor Lake Rod & Gun Club

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 2 9

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 Regional Land Trust

Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club

Ozarks Water Watchers

Perry County Sportsman Club

Pomme de Terre Chapter Muskies, Inc.

Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc.

Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever

River Bluffs Audubon Society

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

South Side Division Conservation Federation

Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers

St. Louis Audubon Society

Tipton Farmers & Sportsman’s Club

Troutbusters of Missouri

United Bow Hunters of Missouri

Walnut Council & Other Fine Hardwoods

Wecomo Sportsman’s Club

Wild Elk Institute of Missouri

Windsor Lake Rod & Gun Club

3 0 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

What’s cooking? Well let’s hope it’s something tasteful. There is nothing worse than

coming into camp after a long day of hunting or fishing, you’re tired, hungry and just want a hearty meal. Then you realize the only edible food is ramen noodles or stale granola bars.

Most of us have been there far too often, so if this situation sounds all too familiar you might want to tune in. I’ll show you how to change that familiar scenario into something a bit more appetizing.

I would like to introduce you to my friend, Camp Chef. No, I’m not referring to uncle Joe who

burns the Dutch oven potatoes each year at deer camp. I’m talking about the guys who make the cooking gear that changes any outdoor menu into something you actually look forward to.

From the backcountry to the back patio, I would like to show you how Camp Chef is the way to cook outdoors.

No matter how your camp looks, the outdoor kitchen should be a vital aspect of the layout because, let’s face it, you can’t control the weather or the fishing but you can control the way you eat. So when all else fails at least you have a tasty meal to look forward to.

Camp Chef stoves are powerful, portable, and versatile. This means they are ready to go whenever you are. Plus, it enables you to cook (not just boil) a delicious, hot meal with ease.

If you would rather keep things a bit more traditional, try cooking with a Dutch oven. A bit different than the drive-through orders we are so accustomed to today, Dutch oven cooking is usually done with charcoal briquettes, over an open fire or on a Camp Chef stove. There isn’t much you can’t cook in a Dutch oven, another reason they are so good at the campsite.

After you have spent a week hunting or fishing, let’s hope you’re ready to fill your freezer. But what do you do with all that meat? Camp Chef can help you with that.

Smoking meat is a great way to add and preserve natural flavors that cannot be experienced any other way. Remember how you were the most popular guy in camp when you limited out all three days? Now you can be the most popular guy in the neighborhood as your limit is smoking on the back patio. So don’t be hesitant because the process can be very simple.

Camp Chef’s DLX Pellet Grill is a personal favorite and the most user friendly. The engineers at Camp Chef added several features to the pellet grill that eliminate annoying issues often associated with low and slow barbecue. For example, it has controls that automatically maintain desired temperatures and a patented ash cleanout system for minimal clean up. But, no matter which Camp Chef smoker you choose, you will soon become satisfied with the results you can achieve. I’ll just promise you this; your taste buds will thank you.

Next time you’re cooking in the backcountry or on the back patio just remember, Camp Chef is the way to cook outdoors.

Cooking in the Outdoors

3 0 c f m — m a r c h 2 0 1 5

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 3 1

3 2 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

The Value of Water and State Water PlanningagEncy nEws - DEpartmEnt of natural rEsourcEs

Water is everything! We know this to be true. Water is the lifeblood to our health and well-being. It is essential to na-ture and wildlife populations.

It provides us with numerous recre-ational opportunities for our enjoy-ment and sustains a vibrant economy. Missourians have a long, rich history of supporting conservation efforts and protecting our water resources. From Ozark springs and streams to our great rivers, we understand the connec-tion between protecting our Missouri waters and protecting our Missouri way of life.

Missouri’s thousands of miles of rivers, streams and lakes, along with underground aquifers, supply our state’s 6 million residents with clean water to drink. Those same water resources support Missouri’s $9 billion agricultural industry, as well as our cities, towns and other industries that employ Missourians. Healthy water resources also play a crucial role in supporting hunting, fishing, boating and other outdoor recreation, which comprise part of a $13 billion outdoor economy fueled by Missouri’s natural resources.

This critical respect for our waters is the reason Americans continue to strongly value the importance of clean water and ensure it is given the highest environmental priority for our nation. Protecting Missouri’s water quality including our drinking water and our lakes, streams and rivers has always been a priority to the Missouri Depart-ment of Natural Resources.

New stresses to our water resources are a constant threat. Increasing de-velopment from sprawling urban and suburban centers, energy development

needs, increased mining, the need for increased agricultural production to feed a growing human population and a changing climate all threaten our water resources. These endless threats are the reason it remains imperative to continue citizen engagement and proper planning.

The department’s Missouri Geo-logical Survey and Water Resources staff completed the first State Water Plan back in 1937. Over the years, the department has completed numer-ous state water plans in addition to undertaken studies, collected and ana-lyzed data, held public meetings and conferences, produced reports, plans and recommendations to address and fulfill Missouri’s water monitoring, supply and use analysis, and planning obligations. And yet, the department recognizes much work remains to be done.

Missouri’s existing water plan is now outdated and does not address future threats from developing tech-nologies such as hydrofracking and other water-intensive energy extrac-tion, suburban growth and increased need for agriculture. Our current plan also does not account for the potential

of increased water diversions from up-river states on the Missouri River. The department recently began the process to update and complete a comprehen-sive State Water Plan for Missouri. As you can imagine, it’s not a quick and easy task. The process typically takes 2 to 5 years to complete and requires extensive involvement from all of Mis-souri’s water users, our stakeholders.

The department will work with a consultant to facilitate the discussions that will help characterize Missouri’s water resources including surface and groundwater, quality and quantity. In

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has lead Missouri’s state water planning efforts since 1937. Learn how you can become involved and help the department complete the latest edition of the State Water Plan for Missouri by visiting dnr.mo.gov. Photo credit: MoDNR40 Photo Contest submitted by Mary White.

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 3 3

Missouri is blessed to have three majestic state

parks available to share these traditions with friends and families of all ages. The spring-fed, pristine waters flowing through these three trout parks provide the es-sential quality required for trout to thrive for fisherman to enjoy. Rainbow trout fishing seasons begins March 1 and runs through Oct. 31 at Roaring River State Park near Cassville, Ben-nett Spring State Park near Lebanon and Montauk State Park near Salem.

Not an avid fly fisherman, no worries. A trout school, offered by the concession-aire at Bennett Spring State Park, is designed for the beginner and experienced trout fisherman or woman

alike. The certified instruc-tors have been thoroughly trained in the most modern teaching methods and have demonstrated his or her abil-ity to teach in a friendly and professional manner. Jim Rogers, the school director, has been fly fishing for more than 50 years and began teaching in 1975. To learn more about the school, visit jimrogersflyschool.com.

Missouri State Parks hopes you will find time this trout season to step outside and enjoy one of Missouri’s three trout parks. Once you have experienced the rain-bow trout pulling on your line followed by the calm patience it requires reeling in that prize-winning catch, you’ll be hooked.

Trout season in Missouri State Parks is a cooperative effort of the Department of

Natural Resources, which manages state parks, and the Department of Conser-vation, which operates the hatcheries and stocks the streams with trout. To learn

more these three trout parks visit mostateparks.com.

Sara Parker PauleyDirector, DNR

agEncy nEws - DEpartmEnt of natural rEsourcEs

Spotlight on Missouri State Parks – Trout Season in Missouri State Parks

Montauk State Park, located in Salem, is one of three state parks that offer premier trout fishing. The pristine water and natural surroundings of the Cur-rent River contains both rainbow and brown trout and provides an excellent background for trout fishing. Photo credit: DNR

addition, we will need to quantitatively define how those water resources are currently used – are they underutilized, overutilitized or sustainably utilized. We’ll need to define all water users, their current needs, predict or model their future needs and ensure all of their needs are met. Where challenges or potential shortfalls are identified, the plan will outline options to address wa-ter resource needs, costs and potential projects.

Missouri’s landscapes and commu-nities are as diverse as its water sup-plies. No one understands the nature of their water supply better than the local citizens that use the water – from

industries that create jobs to streams and lakes that bring in tourists. The department and many regional partners have joined together to address local water concerns. Together, regional water plans have been created to estab-lish more reliable and resilient water supplies to meet the regional needs of citizens, farmers, businesses and indus-tries across Missouri.

The department’s Our Missouri Waters expands on partnering efforts like those created within regional water plans. Our Missouri Waters establishes an ongoing framework, which ensures local engagement, information sharing and empowerment, so local citizens can

act with partners’ support to ensure clean and abundant water for genera-tions to come. We all share a common goal of protecting our water resources – because, they belong to all of us. That’s why it’s important for everyone to play a part. We hope you will join with us and lend your voice to the planning and protection of Missouri’s precious water resources.

To learn more, visit the department’s website at dnr.mo.gov or call 800-361-4827.

Todd SampsellDeputy Director, DNR

3 4 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

It’s a crisp, cool morning in the height of summer. The sun has risen and is already threatening another scorching day. I’m one

of the first risers, but not the first riser; Grandma’s already out on the screened-in porch with a steaming cup of coffee. I step out onto the porch, the green, grass-like carpet is rough on my bare feet. I take a seat next to her in a metal lawn chair and take in the scene. The porch overlooks the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains and the smooth water of Table Rock Lake. I follow the gaze of my Grandma to a tree a couple of yards from the porch. Hanging from the tree is a hummingbird feeder and buzzing around the feeder is not just one, but three Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. They zip and dive while chasing each other around the tree, so close that you can hear their wings beat in the otherwise silent dawn. Finally, one wins and takes his place on the feeder, where he drinks until his heart’s content. At this point Grandma looks over at me, smiles and says, “Let’s bake some cookies!”

Mornings similar to this were not

unusual at our family cabin. My grandma’s two passions in life were bird watching and spoiling her family. It became a ritual to sit on the porch, enjoying the early morning wildlife while drinking coffee and eating freshly baked chocolate chip cookies.

Fortunately, my childhood exploration of the outdoors reaches beyond the screened-in porch of our cabin. My family and I would spend long summer days playing water sports and lounging on our dock. My sister and I could ride inner-tubes for hours, battling it out to see who could hold on the longest. At age eight, I learned how to water-ski on a pair of wooden Snoopy skis, with Coach Mom cheering me on. Beyond the water, my family loved to camp and hike. We owned a pop-up camper that we would haul all the way out to the Rockies for a week of hiking and sightseeing. In the evenings we’d sit by the campfire, listening to my dad play his harmonica. Occasionally, he would stop playing and say, “Do you hear that hoot owl?” or simply, “The coyotes are out tonight.”

In my twenty-some years of life, these memories are exceptional because two special things were brought together: nature and family. When my mom, sister, dad, or grandma shared the joy they received from being outdoors, that joy stuck with me, and shaped the person I am today.

Currently, I’m in college at the University of Missouri, studying Fisheries and Wildlife with the hope of starting a career in wildlife conservation or education. During my second semester in Fisheries and Wildlife I took an Ornithology class that reignited my grandma’s passion for birds in me. I joined the Mizzou Raptor Rehabilitation Project. There I learned to handle and care for captive birds of prey.

Last summer I had the opportunity

to intern at the American Bald Eagle Foundation in Alaska. That experience enabeled me to share my knowledge of raptors with hundreds of people. I’m currently interning at the Conservation Federation of Missouri, and this summer I will be working as a field technician on an Ovenbird and Acadian Flycatcher habitat study.

All of these experiences and memories made me realize that, yes, the beauty of nature is enticing in itself, but the real connection and passion for nature spawns from experiencing that beauty with your loved ones. That’s what I hope to do; spark the same enthusiasm for nature in others that my grandma sparked in me. How am I doing so far?

Mikenzie HartCLC StudentCFM Intern

Passion for the Outdoors

Mikenzie mist netting with her ornithology class.

Mikenzie Hart and her grandma at Table Rock Lake.

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 3 5

The MidwayUSA Foundation has wrapped up another successful grant cycle and 48 youth shooting teams across Missouri have received funds, totaling over $82,000. The money can

be used for team expenses, such as ammunition, targets, competition fees, travel, uniforms and more. Grants are provided through the Team Endowment Account Program, offered by the MidwayUSA Foundation.

The MidwayUSA Foundation, located in Columbia, Missouri, is a public charity, founded by Larry and Brenda Potterfield, working to sustain the shooting sports industry by providing permanent funding to youth shooting teams. They can grow their Team Endowment Account through soliciting private donations, which are currently matched 1:1, earnings, and conducting fundraisers.

Currently, 206 shooting teams in Missouri, at the high school and college level, have active Team Endowment Accounts. Funds in those accounts total nearly $5 million, combined. Teams with a balance in their Team Endowment Account are eligible to apply for a grant once per year by completing the MidwayUSA Foundation grant application. Grant deadlines are June 15 and December 15 and teams can

receive up to 5% of their account balance. This program is offered to youth shooting teams across the nation. In fact, the total payout for this grant cycle was over $1.4 million to 475 shooting teams, the largest grant cycle to date for the Foundation.

Missouri teams that are interested in opening an account or receiving fundraising items can contact the MidwayUSA Foundation by visiting www.midwayusafoundation.org or calling 1-877-375-4570. You can also donate to the shooting team of your choice by visiting www.midwayusafoundation.org/donate and 100% of your donation will benefit the team and is tax deductible.

Dani FarrisMidwayUSA Foundation, Inc.

dfarris@midwayusafoundation.org

Missouri Shooting Teams Receive Grant Funding

The MidwayUSA Foundation supports shooting teams of all disciplines, includ-ing shotgun, rifle, air rifle, pistol, air pistol, high power rifle and blackpowder at the high school and college level. Photo credit: MidwayUSA Foundation.

3 6 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 3 7

3 8 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

1. RULES: The following rules for the tournament will be used. These rules will be interpreted solely by the Tournament Officials, and all decisions will be final.2. ELIGIBILITY: All individuals, 18 years of age or older, who paid entry fee. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Need not be a member of B.A.S.S. or Mo. B.A.S.S. Nation.3. ENTRY FEE: $100 per boat, which includes $10 into Big Bass Pool. Entries will be accepted at Harbor Marina, Pomme de Terre Lake, between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., April 19, 2015.4. HEADQUARTERS & TIMES: Lighthouse/Harbor Marina. Fishing times are 7:00 a.m. (safe light) to 3:00 p.m. Daylight Savings Time, Sunday, April 19, 2015.5. LIVE-WELL CHECK: ALL entries must participate in live-well checks.6. DEPARTURE: Will be in sequence in which entry fees are received.

7. TACKLE AND EQUIPMENT: Only artificial baits or lures may be used. Pork style baits are allowed. No trolling. All bass must be caught on rod and reel during tournament hours.8. BOATS AND EQUIPMENT: Any boat 14 feet or longer will be accepted if powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more. Boats must be equipped with functional, aerated live-well. Boats may not betrailered during tournament hours. Boats may not have motors which exceed the horsepower rating or BIA rating plate on boat. All Missouri Water Patrol laws and regulations apply.9. SAFETY AND SPORTSMANSHIP: Safe boating and fishing practices must be observed. Life jackets must be worn when the combustion engine is running and in gear, Kill switches with lanyards arerequired and subject to testing at takeoff. All Missouri Department of Conservation laws and regulations shall apply.

10. PERMITTED FISHING LOCATIONS: Anywhere on the tournament lake, except within fifty (50) yards of a public dock that dispenses boat gas, another contes-tant’s boat at anchor, or the take-off cove.11. SCORING: Largemouth Bass, Kentucky Bass and Smallmouth Bass will be counted. Total stringer weight will determine place. Any bass under the thirteen (13) inch Pomme De Terre lake limit presented for weigh-in will cause a one (1) pound penalty to be subtracted from the total weight for that day, plus the loss of the short fish. Any bass dead when presented for weigh-in (as determined by Tournament Officials) will cause a 0.25 lb. to be subtracted from total stringer weight for that day. Five (5) fish per boat may be weighed in and no more than five (5) fish may be kept in the livewell at any time. Any frozen, iced or mangled fish presented for weigh-in shall result in immediate disqualification. THE GATOR GRIP tournament ruler shall be the official measuring device.

12. TRUTH VERIFICATION: Each contestant shall be subject to a truth verification test. Anyone failing to pass test will be disqualified. Anyone refusing to such test shall be disqualified. Anyone that has refused to take or failed a truth verification test will not be allowed to participate.13. TIES: Ties will be broken by earliest starting position.14. CHECK-IN LATE PENALTY: One (1) pound per minute, up to ten (10) minutes, then disqualification. NO EXCUSES. All participants must check in at official timer at end of courtesy dock of ramp.15. TOURNAMENT CANCELLATION: If the tournament is cancelled due to reasons of safety on Sunday, April 19, 2015, the entry fees will be refunded.NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE FOR ANY OTHER REASON.16. The Tournament Committee reserves the right to not allow entry for any reason.

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 3 9

A gray mist hung over the river as intermittent snow hissed into the darkened waters of the White River

section of Lake Taneycomo. It was strikingly beautiful, but the first hour provided only casting practice as a chilly breeze urged a return to the parking lot for the goose down vest. Fish surely know when your concentration is waning and hands have morphed into icicles. The strike was subtle. The yellow Crackleback fly simply stopped. Despite a slowed reaction, the lift of the rod immediately telegraphed the message, “Big fish on!” before the behemoth ripped line from the reel in a downstream flight for deeper water.

A scramble for shallow-water footing and a race downstream enabled gathering the fly line, but the rod tip throbbed again as the unseen fish dug for the deep edge of a deadfall. Backing once again pointed toward the escaping fish. Finally, steady reeling produced a sighting, then another, and one final dash that revealed more heart than strength. After what seemed an eternity twenty-eight inches of rainbow trout lay gasping on the gravel. The memory of this late winter day is golden and begs returning there often.

Despite being named “Lake” Taneycomo the first four miles downstream from Table Rock Dam behaves like a river and much of it is easily waded on low water. Flies presented along current seams (the divergence of two currents of

differing speeds) can produce great action. Fishing downstream from the first island requires either shore-bound casting or watercraft even on low water. Taneycomo is big but it’s loaded with rocky obstructions capable of destroying boats and motors. Boating anglers are advised to schedule one or more guided trips before venturing out on their own. Fishing supplies, advice, and excellent guides are available at River Run Outfitters located just a few double hauls from the water on state Highway 165. Proprietors Stan and Carolyn Parker and their guides operate state-of-the-art drift boats as skilled boat handlers and experienced, knowledgeable fly fishers. To schedule either a wading or boat-guided trip call them toll free at (877) 699-3474.

There’s always a “hot” fly pattern at Taneycomo but staples like Cracklebacks, woolly buggers, soft hackles, sowbug and scud patterns are effective. Floating line handles low water in the White River section of Taneycomo but when a generator is running or when fishing the lower lake areas, sink-tip or even full-sinking lines can be helpful. Table Rock Dam to Fall Creek, a distance of four miles, is restricted to artificial lures only with a slot limit. These regulations are well posted at popular entrance points.

As a tailwater trout fishery, arguably one of the very finest, water fluctuations can be dramatic and dangerous. Too many tempt fate by remaining in the river after the horn at the dam blares its warning. Seeking higher ground immediately is the only prudent choice.

Flies are the only lures permitted during catch and release season. A fly is defined by the Missouri Wildlife Code as an artificial lure constructed on a single hook using any material except soft plastic, natural, or scented baits.

In winter the intense crowds of opening day and summer weekends have largely dissipated. While solitude remains elusive, anglers often have sections of stream to themselves. Lodging and campgrounds remain open and many area eateries motels, and fly shops are open for business. At Bennett Spring, for example, flies, equipment needs, and advice is available at Reading’s Fly Shop (417) 588-4334 located on highway 64 just a couple miles away and at Larry’s Sporting Goods (417) 532-8678 just up the hill from the park boundary.

Subaquatic mayflies, caddis larva and pupae make up the bulk of the trout’s diet. Pheasant tail nymphs and soft hackle patterns in sizes 14 through 20 can be the ticket to success. Dry fly aficionados can imitate the reliable midge hatches with sizes 20 through 24 flies in cream and dun (gray). Adult caddis also take fish in sizes 16 and 18 with dun colored bodies that match most of the naturals. Soft-action 3 or 4 weight rods and double-taper lines can enhance the delicate presentations. Finer diameter tippets and extended leaders of 10 to 12 feet might also help induce rises.

The infancy of 2015 beckons you to piece together your favorite rod and enjoy the mid-winter pursuit of southern Missouri’s trout. The fish are abundant and the opportunities diverse.

Terry and Roxanne Wilsonterrywil@windstream.net

In Pursuit of Missouri’s Winter Trout

Photo credit: Terry & Roxanne Wilson.

A gray mist hung over the river as intermittent snow hissed into the darkened waters of the White River

section of Lake Taneycomo. It was strikingly beautiful, but the first hour provided only casting practice as a chilly breeze urged a return to the parking lot for the goose down vest. Fish surely know when your concentration is waning and hands have morphed into icicles. The strike was subtle. The yellow Crackleback fly simply stopped. Despite a slowed reaction, the lift of the rod immediately telegraphed the message, “Big fish on!” before the behemoth ripped line from the reel in a downstream flight for deeper water.

A scramble for shallow-water footing and a race downstream enabled gathering the fly line, but the rod tip throbbed again as the unseen fish dug for the deep edge of a deadfall. Backing once again pointed toward the escaping fish. Finally, steady reeling produced a sighting, then another, and one final dash that revealed more heart than strength. After what seemed an eternity twenty-eight inches of rainbow trout lay gasping on the gravel. The memory of this late winter day is golden and begs returning there often.

Despite being named “Lake” Taneycomo the first four miles downstream from Table Rock Dam behaves like a river and much of it is easily waded on low water. Flies presented along current seams (the divergence of two currents of

differing speeds) can produce great action. Fishing downstream from the first island requires either shore-bound casting or watercraft even on low water. Taneycomo is big but it’s loaded with rocky obstructions capable of destroying boats and motors. Boating anglers are advised to schedule one or more guided trips before venturing out on their own. Fishing supplies, advice, and excellent guides are available at River Run Outfitters located just a few double hauls from the water on state Highway 165. Proprietors Stan and Carolyn Parker and their guides operate state-of-the-art drift boats as skilled boat handlers and experienced, knowledgeable fly fishers. To schedule either a wading or boat-guided trip call them toll free at (877) 699-3474.

There’s always a “hot” fly pattern at Taneycomo but staples like Cracklebacks, woolly buggers, soft hackles, sowbug and scud patterns are effective. Floating line handles low water in the White River section of Taneycomo but when a generator is running or when fishing the lower lake areas, sink-tip or even full-sinking lines can be helpful. Table Rock Dam to Fall Creek, a distance of four miles, is restricted to artificial lures only with a slot limit. These regulations are well posted at popular entrance points.

As a tailwater trout fishery, arguably one of the very finest, water fluctuations can be dramatic and dangerous. Too many tempt fate by remaining in the river after the horn at the dam blares its warning. Seeking higher ground immediately is the only prudent choice.

Flies are the only lures permitted during catch and release season. A fly is defined by the Missouri Wildlife Code as an artificial lure constructed on a single hook using any material except soft plastic, natural, or scented baits.

In winter the intense crowds of opening day and summer weekends have largely dissipated. While solitude remains elusive, anglers often have sections of stream to themselves. Lodging and campgrounds remain open and many area eateries motels, and fly shops are open for business. At Bennett Spring, for example, flies, equipment needs, and advice is available at Reading’s Fly Shop (417) 588-4334 located on highway 64 just a couple miles away and at Larry’s Sporting Goods (417) 532-8678 just up the hill from the park boundary.

Subaquatic mayflies, caddis larva and pupae make up the bulk of the trout’s diet. Pheasant tail nymphs and soft hackle patterns in sizes 14 through 20 can be the ticket to success. Dry fly aficionados can imitate the reliable midge hatches with sizes 20 through 24 flies in cream and dun (gray). Adult caddis also take fish in sizes 16 and 18 with dun colored bodies that match most of the naturals. Soft-action 3 or 4 weight rods and double-taper lines can enhance the delicate presentations. Finer diameter tippets and extended leaders of 10 to 12 feet might also help induce rises.

The infancy of 2015 beckons you to piece together your favorite rod and enjoy the mid-winter pursuit of southern Missouri’s trout. The fish are abundant and the opportunities diverse.

Terry and Roxanne Wilsonterrywil@windstream.net

m i s s o u r i w i l D l i f E 3 9

4 0 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

Life After CLC - Where Are You Now?

Growing up on a small farm near Clarksville, Mo, the outdoors were an integral part of Kat Dockery’s life.

Whether it was bailing hay, helping her father’s commercial fishing busi-ness on the Mississippi, camping on sandbars, or selling vegetables from her garden to supplement her toy collection, Kat learned to appreciate the outdoors through experience. Being so closely tied to the land, this appreciation became a core value that would help shape the rest of her life.

In high school, Kat’s guidance counselor and parents recognized her affinity for nature, and, according to her, had the foresight to introduce her to the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Conservation Honors Program.

“An affection for the outdoors had always been in me, but it was during this time that I realized how important it (the outdoors) was to me,” said Kat. Graduating from the Conservation Honors Program, she first attended the Conservation Fed-eration of Missouri’s (CFM) Conser-vation Leadership Corps (CLC) as a junior in high school. For the next six years, she didn’t miss a conven-tion.

The CFM convention annually produces legislative resolutions put forth by students, which have a real and lasting impact on Missouri’s landscape. While this held true while Kat attended CLC, it was not the legislative aspect that drove Kat to return each year. It was the rela-tionships and encouragement she received that kept her involved year after year and had the longest lasting impact on her.

“Youth, particularly females, are at a formative stage in their

lives from juniors in high school to seniors in college. A little encourage-ment, and even just one or two posi-tive examples of individuals who are involved in conservation, can make a world of difference for them,” said Kat.

Kat knows how critical these interactions can be, because it was at a convention that she met individu-als who would positively change her life. “There were several older CFM board members who reached out to me and encouraged me to keep involved. When I spoke to them, I could tell how passionate they were about the outdoors,” said Kat. “They spoke with me about the career I could have in conservation and the impact I could make. That was an eye opener to me; prior to that, I thought conservation was just a hobby. After speaking with them, I learned that one could be part of the conservation community and make a profession out of it.”

In 2010, Kat graduated from Webster University with a Masters Degree in Communication. Follow-

ing further encouragement of CFM board members and mentors, she started working for the Open Space Council of the St. Louis Region as a part-time employee. Now, hav-ing been promoted to the executive director of the Open Spaces Council, Kat continues to work conserving and preserving land and water re-sources in the St. Louis region. In her role as executive director, Kat also represents a demographic in St. Louis business leadership that she hopes to grow; women leading organizations.

“If young girls don’t see examples of women in conservation, or see only a very few, it can be difficult for them to envision themselves in this line of work. Young women must be encouraged and invited to be involved with conservation profes-sions. If not, they may not have the confidence to pursue those careers.”

Now, as a board member of CFM, she continues to be involved with CLC, encouraging young women and minorities to become involved in Missouri’s outdoors. “The CLC provides exposure and opportunity for young people to get involved in a lifetime of work in the great outdoors. So many people invested time and money in me because they believed I could do something good for the outdoors. Now it is my turn to invest in the next generation, par-ticularly those who have not histori-cally had a strong presence in the field. My goal is to encourage them to step up and become the new face of conservation.”

Rehan NanaDeputy Director, CFM

Kat Dockery:

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 4 1

Member’s Memories

4 2 C F M — M a R C h 2 0 1 5

Jamie Barton:

I’ve been a hunter and an outdoor enthusiast since I was little. When I was young, I never gave much thought to things that were going on more than a few miles from where I grew up or hunted. Like most kids, I was in my own world and nothing else mattered. As I grew up, I found myself paying more attention to and caring much more about political activities in Jefferson City and Washington, D.C. This includes legislation that hurts or harms the fish, forest or wildlife resources of Missouri.

I’ve been a member of CFM for several years. CFM has always done an exceptional job of keeping me informed about legislation that could be hurtful to the wildlife resources that I cherish. Last year I felt a threat like never before and wanted to do more. It was time for me to put my money where my heart was and make more of a contribution.

Thank you CFM, for keeping me informed.

Jamie BartonLife Member, CFM

Why I Became a Life Member of CFM

new lifetime members since the last issue.Jamie Barton,

PortlandMarlin Fiola, Kansas City

Dennis Williams, Mission Hills, KS

— 218 life members and growing —to see the full list go to:

http://confedmo.org/about/lifetime-members-2/

M I S S O U R I W I L D L I F E 4 3

Visit our website: www.confedmo.org

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.