STATE PARKS READY FOR RELAXING LABOR DAY WEEKEND

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Only three parks are affected by blue-green algae; all state parks and state fishing lakes ready for busy holiday weekend

PRATT — Kansas state parks are busy throughout the summer, but three weekends are the most popular — Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3-5, is the only summer holiday remaining this season. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) wants the public to know that despite blue-green algae in two reservoirs and several smaller lakes that may limit water recreation, all state parks will be open Labor Day. Also, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Kansas lakes and parks since all state fishing lakes and most city and county lakes are free of blue-green algae warnings or advisories.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has been checking certain lakes nearly all summer and has issued “advisories” and “warnings” when harmful levels of blue-green algae have been detected. Based on KDHE’s findings, the Army Corps of Engineers and KDWPT have closed Milford Reservoir near Junction City, to all water use (including fishing from the bank) because of a serious health risk. However, land-based opportunities abound at the lake and Milford State Park will be open for business Labor Day weekend. While the River Pond below the dam in Tuttle Creek State Park is under a warning, boating and fishing are allowed. Tuttle Creek Reservoir is not under any warning or advisory and is open to all activities.

And, although Cheney Reservoir west of Wichita is under an Advisory, Cheney State Park is open for business. The advisory at Cheney Reservoir means harmful blue-green algae have been detected and a hazardous condition may exist, but water activities such as boating and fishing are allowed. However, direct contact with the water (wading, swimming) is strongly discouraged for people and pets.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Labor Day weekend is one of the best times of the year to visit a park or lake. The weather is still warm, and the water feels great. For those who would rather stay dry (or are visiting Milford State Park), volleyball, disc golf, trail hiking, camping, watching wildlife in the park or a nearby wildlife area, or simply sitting around a campfire and enjoying the outdoors are relaxation enough after a hard week’s work. It’s also a welcome breather before school gets back in full swing.

Blue-green algae conditions may change before the holiday so people should stay alert for updates. For more information on blue-green algae, including current warnings and advisories, visit the KDHE website, http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm or contact Jonathan Larance at785-291-3684. For more information about Kansas state parks, click the “State Parks” icon at the top of the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. For more information about Kansas state fishing lakes and other fishing locations, click on the “Fishing” icon on the KDWPT website.

BLUE-GREEN ALGAE ALERTS UPDATED

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August 26, 2011

Water-based recreation prohibited at Milford Lake

TOPEKA — In recent testing of Kansas lakes by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), blue-green algae levels in several lakes remain high. Milford Reservoir, near Junction City, has been upgraded from “Advisory” status to “Warning” status. While state parks, campgrounds and area businesses will remain open at Milford Lake, officials are prohibiting any water-based activities, and lake access points will be closed because of blue-green algae levels.

Two new additions to the Warning list include the River Pond at Tuttle Creek State Park in Pottawatomie and Riley counties and Dillon Park Lake in Hutchinson. The Warning at Tuttle Creek’s River Pond, which is below the dam, does not affect Tuttle Creek Lake.

In some good news, however, Big Hill Reservoir, in Labette County, and Hillsdale Reservoir, in Miami County, have been removed from all listings.

Based upon the latest sampling results and established health risk levels, KDHE issues Warnings and Advisories. A “Warning” is issued when high levels of toxic blue-green algae have been detected. A “Public Health Warning” indicates that water conditions are unsafe, and direct water contact (wading, skiing, and swimming) should not occur.

Blue-green algae do not affect the drinking water in state parks, and all campgrounds, marinas, and other lakeside businesses remain open for business.

KDHE samples recreational bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency is alerted to a potential algae bloom. When harmful algal blooms are present, KDHE, in cooperation with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, responds by informing the public of these conditions.

Health effects from exposure to blue-green algae can vary. The most common complaints after recreational exposure include vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, eye irritation and respiratory symptoms. These toxins also cause deaths in pets. KDHE has confirmed that three dogs have died at Milford Lake due to blue-green algae exposure at Milford Lake.

Current concentrations of algae in the following waters exceeded the KDHE recommended level of less than 100,000 cells/ml for recreational water use and are currently under Warning:

• River Pond at Tuttle Creek State Park — Pottawatomie and Riley counties (new listing);
• Santa Fe Lake — Augusta, Butler County;
• Memorial Park Lake — Great Bend, Barton County;
• Rigg’s Park Lake — Haysville, Sedgwick County;
• Warnock Lake — Atchison County;
• Harvey County East Lake — Harvey County;
• Augusta City Lake — Augusta, Butler County;
• Logan City Lake — Phillips County;
• Milford Reservoir — Clay, Geary and Dickinson Counties (upgraded from an Advisory to a Warning); and
• Dillon Park Lake — Hutchinson, Reno County (new listing).

When a Warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• do not drink lake water;
• do not swim, wade, or do anything with full-body contact with lake water;
• clean fish well, consume only the fillet portion, and discard all other parts; and
• keep pets from having contact with or drinking lake water.

An “Advisory” is issued when harmful blue-green algae have been detected. A “Public Health Advisory” indicates that a hazardous condition exists, but water activities such as boating and fishing may be safe. However, direct contact with water (wading, swimming) is strongly discouraged for people and pets.

KDHE has issued an Advisory for the following Kansas public waters:

• Marion County Lake — Marion County; and
• Cheney Reservoir — Reno, Kingman, and Sedgwick counties.

When a Advisory is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• do not drink lake water;
• avoid swimming, wading, or other activities with full body contact with lake water;
• clean fish well, consume only the fillet portion, and discard all other parts; and
• keep pets from having contact with or drinking lake water.

KDHE will continue to monitor these public waters and will update statements as conditions warrant. More information on algae and algae blooms, including up-to-date advisories and Warnings, can be found at online at www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm.

PLENTY OF SUMMER LEFT AT KANSAS STATE PARKS

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August 25
After Labor Day, parks offer milder weather, uncrowded parks
PRATT — School will be starting soon, and although many people view this as the end of summer, Kansas state parks are still going strong. Many have events planned for one of the busiest times the year — Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3-5. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is one of the best times of year for a park visit. If the weather is hot or just mildly warm, it’s a good time to be outdoors. Once Labor Day weekend is over, crowds thin, and September becomes one of the most relaxing times to visit a state park.
Trail rides, chili cook-offs, and fishing tournaments are among the many events slated for September, making the prospect of a pre-autumn mini-vacation even more inviting. Each park sets its own dates for these events, and all offer a chance to enjoy the special attributes of Kansas state parks, many of which feature rental cabins, as well as fascinating historical or geological features that enhance the park experience.
For more information on these events, phone individual parks or click the "Event Calendar" on the "State Parks" page of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. Telephone numbers of all state parks offices may be found on the KDWPT website. Click "State Parks" at the top of the page, then "Locations" in the left-hand column.
The following is a list of September state park events:

• Sept. 4 — Wright Flight of Kansas/Missouri trail ride at Eisenhower State Park;
• Sept. 9-11 — American Competitive Trail Horse Association & Midwest Mustang and Burro Saddle Club trail ride at Eisenhower State Park;
• Sept. 9-11 — Saddle Ridge Trail Riders Annual Fall Trail Ride at Hillsdale State Park;
• Sept. 10-11 — Heartland Coursing Association field trail at Clinton State Park;
• Sept. 11 — outdoor chili cooking contest at Lovewell State Park;
• Sept. 11 — 3-D archery competition at Lovewell State Park;
• Sept. 18 — Twin Rivers Bass Club of Emporia fishing tournament at Wilson State Park;
• Sept. 23-25 — American Competitive Trail Horse Association trail ride at Hillsdale State Park;
• Sept. 24 — National Trail Cleanup Day at Hillsdale State Park;
• Sept. 24-25 — “Fishing Has No Boundaries” tournament at El Dorado State Park; and
• Sept. 24 — 9th Annual Fall River Rendezvous at Fall River State Park.

KDHE BLUE-GREEN ALGAE ALERTS UPDATED

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Logan City Lake upgraded to “Warning” level; Milford State Park cancels boat race
TOPEKA — In recent testing of Kansas lakes by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), blue-green algae levels in several lakes remain high. Logan City Lake, previously listed in the lower category of “Advisory,” has been upgraded to a “Warning” status.

In addition, Milford Reservoir remains under an Advisory, and Milford State Park has cancelled the “Float Your Boat” cardboard boat race scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20. The park will have Free Park Entrance Days Aug. 20-21. Blue-green algae do not affect the drinking water in state parks, and all campgrounds, marinas, and other lakeside businesses remain open for business.

KDHE samples recreational bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency is alerted to a potential algae bloom. When harmful algal blooms are present, KDHE, in cooperation with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, responds by informing the public of these conditions.

Health effects from exposure to blue-green algae can vary. The most common complaints after recreational exposure include vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, eye irritation and respiratory symptoms. These toxins also cause deaths in pets.

Based upon the latest sampling results and established health risk levels, KDHE issues Warnings and Advisories. A “Warning” is issued when high levels of toxic blue-green algae have been detected. A “Public Health Warning” indicates that water conditions are unsafe, and direct water contact (wading, skiing, and swimming) should not occur.

Current concentrations of algae in the following waters exceeded the KDHE recommended level of less than 100,000 cells/ml for recreational water use and are currently under Warning:

• Santa Fe Lake — Augusta, Butler County;
• Memorial Park Lake — Great Bend, Barton County;
• Rigg’s Park Lake — Haysville, Sedgwick County;
• Warnock Lake — Atchison County;
• Harvey County East Lake — Harvey County; and
• Augusta City Lake — Augusta, Butler County; and
• Logan City Lake — Phillips County (new listing).

When a Warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• do not drink lake water;
• do not swim, wade, or do anything with full-body contact with lake water;
• clean fish well, consume only the fillet portion, and discard all other parts; and
• keep pets from having contact with or drinking lake water.

An “Advisory” is issued when harmful blue-green algae have been detected. A “Public Health Advisory” indicates that a hazardous condition exists, but water activities such as boating and fishing may be safe. However, direct contact with water (wading, swimming) is strongly discouraged for people and pets.

KDHE has issued an Advisory for the following Kansas public waters:

• Big Hill Reservoir — Labette County;
• Marion County Lake — Marion County;
• Hillsdale Reservoir — Miami County;
• Milford Reservoir — Clay, Geary, and Dickinson counties; and
• Cheney Reservoir — Reno, Kingman, and Sedgwick counties.

When a Advisory is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• do not drink lake water;
• avoid swimming, wading, or other activities with full body contact with lake water;
• clean fish well, consume only the fillet portion, and discard all other parts; and
• keep pets from having contact with or drinking lake water.

KDHE will continue to monitor these public waters and will update statements as conditions warrant. More information on algae and algae blooms, including up-to-date advisories and Warnings, can be found at online at www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm.

SALVAGE ORDER ISSUED FOR SALINE STATE FISHING LAKE

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Low water due to drought makes salvage necessary; fishing license required
SALINA — As a result of drought that has severely lower the water level at Saline State Fishing Lake, northwest of Salina, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) Secretary Robin Jennison has issued a fish salvage order for the lake. The order will take effect when the lake is posted and remain in effect until the notices are removed.

During this time, it will be legal to take fish from this lake by any legal means, as well as snagging, seine, gig, and hand.

Those 16 and older taking fish during this salvage order must have a fishing license. For more information, phone the KDWPT Region 1 Office at 785-628-8614.

WILD TURKEY FEDERATION STATE YOUTH CAMP SEPT. 17-18

Kids learn archery, shotgun shooting, crafts, much more; registration deadline Sept. 5
EMPORIA — The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) will hold its 2011 NWTF Kansas State JAKES Camp for youth on Sept. 17-18 at Camp Alexander, near Emporia. This camp will run all day Saturday and end about 2 p.m. Sunday. Participants may choose to tent camp Saturday night (tents not provided) or commute both days.

Saturday’s activities involve archery, fishing, canoeing, air rifles, live shotgun fire, nature hikes, turkey calling, 3-D laser shoot, arts and crafts, primitive living, firearm handling and safety, small game animals, and sporting dogs. The day will consist of several rotating stations, giving each youth the opportunity to pick six — three in the morning and three in the afternoon — with each station lasting approximately 45 to 50 minutes.

Saturday evening, the NWTF State JAKES and Xtreme JAKES Turkey Calling Contest will be held, and adults may participate in a silent auction. After a campfire, night hikes will wrap up the day’s activities.

Sunday’s activities include presentations by the Kansas Fur Harvesters Association, a NWTF turkey biologist, and the David Taylor Zoo from Emporia on animals of Kansas, followed by JAKES certificate presentations and door prizes. The new “JAKES Take Aim” Daisy shooting trailer will also be available both days.

Youth 17 and younger are invited to participate, and adults are encouraged to accompany youth. Meals will be provided both days, and each youth attending will receive a camp T-shirt. Cost for the camp for current NWTF JAKES members is $20. For non-JAKES, the cost is $30, which includes a JAKES membership. The adult fee is $20.

The registration deadline for the camp is Sept. 5, and it will be held regardless of weather. For a registration form or more information, contact Gib Rhodes at 620-437-2012 or emailgib@madtel.net or blewellen@sutv.com.

KDWPT TO HOST DEER INFORMATION NIGHTS

Sept. 8 in Lawrence.

The meetings will be held at the following times and locations:

• Aug. 23 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. — the Municipal Building’s Trail Room, 119 N. Hersey Ave. in Beloit;
• Aug. 24 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. — the Dillon Nature Center, 3002 East 30th Ave. in Hutchinson;
• Aug. 30 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. — Memorial Auditorium’s Alliance Room, 101 South Lincoln in Chanute;
• Sept. 6 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. — William Carpenter 4-H Building, 608 N. Fairground Road in Scott City; and
• Sept. 8 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. — Dole Institute of Politics’ Simon Media Room, 2350 Petefish Drive in Lawrence.

These meetings are open to the public and will include short presentations on the status of the deer herd and hunters in Kansas. The main part of each meeting will be an open forum for people to express their opinions.

KDWPT conducts an annual review of deer hunting regulations dealing with the hunting of deer, and this year that review has been expanded. Specifically, the department is seeking public comments on some potential changes in the deer hunting seasons that have been suggested by hunters, parents, legislators, and others. Season dates and timing often have complicated effects on the number of deer that hunters take and the participation level among hunter groups. For example, although it’s counter-intuitive, longer seasons may actually reduce hunter participation and reduce the number of deer that hunters take.

Some suggestions the department has been asked to review this year include the following:

• change the current nine-day, mid-September season for youth and people with disabilities to two four-day seasons with the first season starting on the Friday before Labor Day (first Monday in September) and the second season starting on the Friday before Columbus Day (second Monday in October). Each season would run four days and include two weekend days and one holiday;
• change the dates of the traditional 12-day firearm deer hunting season from the Wednesday after Thanksgiving to the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (thus including two days of holiday for many workers, in addition to four weekend days);
• change the beginning date of the white-tailed deer antlerless-only season from Jan. 1 to the Friday before Christmas and continue it for 17 days, thus including no fewer than six weekend days and both Christmas and New Year’s days;
• initiate a two-day, pre-rut white-tailed antlerless-only season for the last weekend in September;
• expand the season dates for bowhunting with the season beginning on the Tuesday after Labor Day and ending on Jan. 31. During the archery season, hunters would be prohibited from taking an antlered deer during any dates open for antlerless-only deer hunting with a firearm; and
• expand the muzzleloader season from the current 14 days in September to include an additional seven days in December following the 12-day firearms season.

If time permits after the public comment segment, there will be presentations on controlling deer damage to crops and items landowners should consider before they lease their lands for deer hunting. For more information about the Deer Information Nights contact Lloyd Fox, Big Game Program Coordinator, PO Box 1525, Emporia, KS 66801, 620-342-0658.

NEOSHO WILDLIFE AREA TO HOST WATERFOWL INFORMATION MEETING AUG. 25

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Management, waterfowl outlook, regulations changes will be discussed

ST. PAUL — On Aug. 25, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will conduct a public meeting to discuss the past, present, and future management of Neosho Wildlife Area. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Osage Mission Neosho County Museum in St. Paul. The public is encouraged to attend.

Topics of discussion will include habitat conditions at the wildlife area, expected fall flight forecast, final results of the 2010 waterfowl season, changes to waterfowl zones and regulations for this season, and management plans for the future.

The special early teal season runs Sept. 10-25, and the opening date for the regular waterfowl season is Nov. 5 in the Low Plains Southeast Unit, which encompasses Neosho Wildlife Area. More details on duck units and waterfowl dates will be discussed at the meeting.

For more information, phone 620-449-2539.

KANSAS HUNTING REGULATIONS SUMMARY ESSENTIAL TOOL

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Publication online Aug. 12; printed copies available in early September
PRATT — Printed copies of the 2011 Kansas Hunting & Furharvesting Regulations Summary will be available at Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) offices and license vendors around the state about Sept. 1, but hunters can view or download the summary beginning Aug. 12 at the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. Type “Hunting Regulations” in the search box at the department’s homepage or click on “Hunting,” then “Hunting Regulations.”
As always, this year's booklet contains several new regulations. In addition to changes in season dates, significant new regulations include the following:

• elk units are now described by highway boundaries rather than counties;
• any person who lawfully possesses a firearm suppressing device may use that device in conjunction with lawful hunting and furharvesting;
• resident youth 16 through 20 years old may purchase multi-year licenses valid through the end of the calendar year in which they turn 21. Hunt, fish, and combination licenses are available. Resident youth will save $62.50 if they purchase the multi-year fishing or hunting license when they turn 16. A 16-year-old will save $122.50 if they buy the multi-year combination license; and
• otters may be trapped Nov. 16-March 31, 2012, or until the statewide trapping mortality quota of 100 otters is met. Only two otters per trapper will be allowed for the entire season. Each individual who has trapped an otter must contact designated KDWPT staff within 24 hours of take.

Other regulations are covered in this indispensable booklet. Download a copy as soon as it’s available or pick up a printed copy in early September.

2011 KANSAS HUNTING ATLAS COMING SOON

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Atlas locates all Walk-In Hunting Access areas and public wildlife areas
PRATT — Want hunting access to one million acres of private land? The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) provides just that and more in the 2011 Kansas Hunting Atlas. This essential hunting tool includes maps showing locations of Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) areas and public wildlife areas and will be available online at the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us, the week of Aug. 15. Click “Hunting/Where to Hunt in Kansas” to find a link to the document. Printed copies of the atlas will be available in late August or early September at KDWPT offices and hunting license vendors around the state.
The atlas provides dozens of full-page maps covering the entire state. Online visitors can view and print the complete atlas or select specific maps. Hunters can also download maps to GPS units for easy navigation. Each map includes an index listing the game species most likely to occur on properties listed.
For information on hunting seasons and regulations, copies of the 2011 Kansas Hunting & Furharvesting Regulations Summary will be available at KDWPT offices and license vendors the first week in September, but hunters can view or download the publication Aug. 12 at the KDWPT website. Type “Hunting Regulations” in the search box at the department’s homepage or click “Hunting/Hunting Regulations.”

GRIDLEY CITY LAKE TO UNDERGO REHABILITATION

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Lake open to public salvage before work begins
GRIDLEY — Over the past few years, Gridley City Lake has diminished from one of the best small fishing lakes in Kansas to a poor-quality lake with a high number of large carp competing with the game fish and spoiling the water quality. Now, the city of Gridley — with the help of Coffey County, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, and the Walter S. and Evan C. Jones Foundation — have formed an alliance to rehabilitate the 33-acre lake and recreate the high-quality sport fishery the lake once offered.

The lake was opened to public salvage on August 9, and all state and city creel and length limits have been rescinded. Anglers may use seines, snagging, bow and arrow, and gigs to harvest fish as the lake is drawn down over the next several weeks.

On the morning of Sept. 10, the lake will be totally drained. A fence will be placed just below the dam to hold the fish back, and the public will be invited to pick up all the fish they want. A city permit will still be required to harvest fish at the lake. Seasonal and daily permits are available at the lake iron ranger, city hall, the grocery store, and the gas station in Gridley.

When the lake is finished draining and begins to dry out, heavy equipment will be brought in to build fishing piers, deepen many areas, and build up islands. This will create more shoreline habitat and deeper water, as well as diminish wave erosion on the shoreline. The rehabilitation project will improve water quality and eliminate unwanted fish species from the lake and watershed. Brush piles and rock piles will be added to create more fish habitat.

If weather permits, the earthwork should be completed by late winter, and the lake will be ready for refilling and stocking in early spring. Channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, walleye, smallmouth bass, and wiper, as well as fathead minnows for forage, will be stocked. The lake will be closed for as long as two years while the fish grow, and they will be fed to increase growth and carrying capacity.

For more information, phone 620-432-4857.

SEPT. 1 DOVE OPENER FLAGS FALL HUNTING SEASONS

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Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks manages fields just for dove hunters
PRATT — The Sept. 1 opening of dove season is fast approaching. While a blistering summer may have punished crops and people, mourning doves seem to thrive in hot, dry weather. Reports from many parts of the state suggest ample numbers of this elusive, fast-flying quarry.
Although the mourning dove is the primary quarry, Kansas hunters enjoy pursuing four species of doves in split fall and winter seasons. The season for all doves runs Sept. 1-Oct. 31 and Nov. 5-13. During these segments, two native species (mourning and white-winged doves) as well as two exotic species (Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves) may be taken. In addition, an exotic species season runs Nov. 20-Feb. 28, 2012. During this time, only Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves may be taken.
To enhance public hunting opportunities, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) manages fields specifically to attract doves. Dove fields may include standing or mowed sunflowers, unharvested strips of wheat and burned crop stubble, mowed wheat, mixed plantings, or any combination of techniques.
Some areas have restricted hunting dates or times, and others may be restricted to youth, novice, and/or disabled hunters. Some may also require hunters using managed dove fields to obtain and complete a daily hunt permit or obtain access through a drawing. Others are open to the general public. Fields within waterfowl management areas require non-toxic shot only.
Use the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us, to find details on areas specially managed for doves. Click "Hunting/Migratory Birds/Doves/Managed Hunting Areas" for details on the nearest managed dove area.
Hunters are reminded that there are no bag and possession limits for Eurasian collared doves and ringed turtle doves. However, during the regular dove season — Sept. 1 through Oct. 31 and Nov. 5-13 — if the take of exotic doves exceeds a hunter’s daily bag of 15 mourning and white-winged doves (single species or in combination), the exotic doves must be transported with a fully-feathered wing attached. The possession limit for mourning and white-winged doves is 30.
On Aug. 11, the Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission will approve final regulations for ducks and geese. Once that action is complete, KDWPT can post the 2011 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary on the agency’s website where hunters can go online to learn more about identifying dove species. Click "Hunting/Hunting Regulations" to view or download this booklet, which has all the information needed for hunting doves, including color pictures of the doves that may be legally taken. Information on all other game species is included, as well.
Doves are excellent table fare. Whether wrapped in bacon and grilled, baked in a pie, or skewered for shish-ka-bobs, this game bird is a favorite of many. But don’t wait until Sept. 1 to get ready. Hunters should be scouting areas and obtaining permission on private ground or planning for a public land hunt now. Shooting clay targets for a couple of weeks will save shells once the season opens, but stock up on shells anyway; this is one of the most difficult game birds to hit. These things done, all that remains is knowing the law and cleaning the grill.
Printed copies of the 2011 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary, as well as the Kansas Hunting Atlas, will be available where licenses are sold the first week in September.

ALGAE BLOOMS AGITATE FARM PONDS, FARMERS

Image via Wikipedia Fish-killing algae blooms, oxygen depletion can harm farm ponds as well as lakes
PRATT — Summer blue-green algae blooms at a number of Kansas reservoirs are not isolated to large bodies of water. Record hot temperatures this summer have created the algae blooms in farm ponds, as well, and nothing can be more disheartening than to carefully nurture a pond only to discover a fish kill on a hot summer morning. While blue-green algae blooms can be toxic to fish, fish kills can also result from oxygen depletion created by a number of factors not necessarily associated with blue-green algae blooms.
To support fish and other higher organisms, a pond or lake must have one element — dissolved oxygen. Oxygen depletion is the most common cause of fish kills, and low oxygen occurs most often during periods of calm, cloudy, hot weather. Although Kansas has not experienced many cloudy days this summer, 100-degree days have been strung together like glue, and green algae has tinted most ponds this summer.
Most dissolved oxygen in water comes from the atmosphere on windy days and as a byproduct of photosynthesis in aquatic plants such as filamentous algae (commonly called "moss"), green algae, and coontail. If less sunlight penetrates deeper water — because of clouds or murky water — vegetation and oxygen content at deeper levels are reduced. Dissolved oxygen levels can also be affected by temperature. Colder water holds oxygen better, and very warm water easily loses oxygen. Atmospheric pressure is also a factor. Oxygen solubility increases as atmospheric pressure rises.
Most fish kills occur in the early morning before the sun comes up, when dissolved oxygen levels are lowest, and, unfortunately, larger fish are usually the first to be affected. Ponds or lakes with large amounts of algae or phytoplankton can have high oxygen during the day, but at night, bacteria that feed on these dying plants use up oxygen.
Herbicides or algaecides can help control aquatic vegetation and reduce the chances of a fish kill. However, this must be done carefully to prevent rapid decomposition and further oxygen depletion. Other ways to prevent oxygen depletion include pumping or flowing water into a pond (especially in the early morning hours before sunrise); diluting runoff that adds nutrients to a pond; using a commercial aerator; reducing feed if artificial feeding is used; and maintaining proper fish density for the size of the pond.
Blue-green algae blooms such as those that have affected larger lakes in the state also can cause fish kills in ponds and small lakes. Blue-green algae blooms often resemble green or turquoise paint floating on the water. These blooms result when long-term build up of nutrients in the water (nitrogen and phosphorus) combine with hot weather and other environmental conditions to stimulate algae growth. In time, these algae blooms naturally die off.
For more information on pond management, contact the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism at 620-672-5911 or visit the department website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. Type "Pond Management" in the search box and then click on "Producing Fish and Wildlife in Kansas Ponds."

WESTAR ENERGY NOVICE DOVE HUNT LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Image by Topato via Flickr Labor Day weekend event for youth 16 and younger; registration deadline Aug. 26
ST. MARYS — The Westar Energy Green Team will host a youth dove hunt for novice shooters at Jeffrey Energy Center, north of St. Marys, on Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3-4. Hunts will be on wheat stubble or sunflowers, guided by volunteers in the early morning or late afternoon. Area staff report that the fields are in excellent condition and should provide excellent hunting.
These hunts are a great way for kids 16 and younger to learn dove hunting basics with plenty of birds flying at close range. Youth must bring their own shotguns, be accompanied by a non-hunting adult, and have a license and HIP stamp if age 16. Nontoxic shells will be provided.
Interested hunters or mentors should phone Barb Cornelius at 785-575-8125. Hunters will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and hunts will be scheduled as requests dictate and hunting groups can be formed. The registration deadline is Friday, Aug. 26.

FUN DAY AT LOVEWELL STATE PARK AUG. 7

Image via Wikipedia First ever Disc Golf Tournament to highlight many events
WEBBER — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Lovewell Marina at Lovewell State Park are sponsoring the annual Lovewell Fun Day on Saturday, Aug. 6. A new addition to the day’s events is the first ever Disc Golf Singles Tournament. Eighteen holes will be played beginning at 9 a.m. Competitors need to register at the park office by 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. The tournament will have two divisions: youth (15 and younger) and adult (16 and older). A $5 entry fee is due at time of registration, fully refunded to the first three places in each age division.

The Co-ed Mud Volleyball Tournament begins at 10 a.m. This event is double-elimination with a $20 entry fee per team and a 10-team limit. Pre-registration for the mud volleyball tournament is requested at the Lovewell State Park Office by August 4.

Other events scheduled for the Fun Day include minnow races at 10 a.m. at the marina, log races at noon at the Pioneer Day use Area (playground), water balloon toss at 2 p.m., waterslide contest at 3 p.m., and a Frisbee-throwing contest at 4 p.m. These events are for all ages.

In addition, an Outdoor Cook-off Contest will be held at the Pioneer Day Use area. Pre-registration is required by August 4 at 6 p.m. at the park office. Each cooker must cook 100 1-ounce servings for the judges. Judges will be chosen from the first 100 people who contribute $5 for a taste-testing ticket. Donations are used for prizes at Lovewell State Park’s special events throughout the year. Judging tickets will be available at the cook-off area beginning at 5 p.m., and judging will start at 6 p.m. and end at 6:30 p.m. Additional samples will be available, depending on availability of food entries. (If too few entrants register, this event may be cancelled.)

To check on the status of any of these events or for more information, phone Lovewell State Park at 785-753-4971. A vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Daily permits are $4.20, annual permits $24.70.

KANSAS WILDLIFE, PARKS AND TOURISM COMMISSION TO MEET AUG. 11

Migratory bird seasons to be set
GREAT BEND — The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission will conduct a public meeting and hearing on Thursday, August 11, at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 592 NE Highway K-156, northeast of Great Bend on Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. The afternoon session will begin at 1:30 p.m. and recess at 5 p.m., and the evening session will begin at 7 p.m.
The afternoon session will begin with time for public comments on non-agenda items, followed by a general discussion period on the following topics:

• Secretary’s remarks;
• tourism briefing;
• geocaching; and
• big game permanent regulations.

The afternoon will also include a workshop session, in preparation for potential future regulatory action, covering preliminary recommendations on the following regulations:

• potential changes in deer regulations for 2012;
• spring turkey season;
• KAR 115-8-1 — public lands reference document items;
• fishing regulations;
• aquatic nuisance species (ANS) and bait regulations;
• park regulations; and
• falconry regulations.

The commission will recess at 5 p.m., then reconvene at 7 p.m. at the same location for a public hearing on the following regulations:

• KAR 115-16-3 — nuisance bird control permit application, provisions, and requirements;
• late migratory bird seasons;
• duck zone regulations — 2011 through 2015;
• KAR 115-2-3a — cabin camping permit fees;
• cabin camping permit fees under new process; and
• KAR 115-8-13 — vehicles on the ice.

Time will be set aside in both the afternoon and evening sessions for public comment on topics that are not on the agenda. If necessary, the commission will recess on Aug. 11 and reconvene at the same location at 9 a.m., Aug. 12, to complete unfinished business.
Live video and audio streaming of this meeting will be broadcast through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us.
If notified in advance, the department will have an interpreter available for the hearing impaired. To request an interpreter, call the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Any individual with a disability may request other accommodations by contacting the Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission secretary at 620-672-5911.
The next commission meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 13, at the KDWPT Pratt Operations Office, 512 SE 25th Ave., 2 miles east and 1 mile south of Pratt.