Kansas Outdoors Information and Events: December 2011

Saturday, December 31, 2011

KANSAS WILDLIFE, PARKS AND TOURISM COMMISSION TO MEET JAN. 5

Workshop items include big game and deer regulations

PRATT — The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission will conduct a public meeting and hearing on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, at Kansas Wesleyan University’s Hauptli Student Center, 100 E. Claflin Ave. in Salina. 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
Agency and state fiscal status
2012 legislative agenda
Commissioner Big Game Permit drawing
Tourism Division briefing
Update on the Voluntary Public Access/Habitat Improvement Program
Status report on the upland bird season
Wildlife rehabilitation briefing

The afternoon workshop session will include discussion of preliminary recommendations on the following regulations in preparation for potential future regulatory action:

Big game permanent regulations
Potential changes in deer regulations for 2012
Big game 25-Series regulations – deer
Big game 25-Series regulations – elk/antelope
Falconry regulations; and
Fall turkey regulations.

The commission will recess at 5 p.m., then reconvene at 7 p.m. at the same location for discussion on Public Land regulations and to conduct a public hearing to set the Free Park Entrance and Free Fishing days.

There will be time 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 Jan. 5 and reconvene at the same location at 9 a.m., Jan. 6, to complete unfinished business.

Live video and audio streaming of this meeting will be broadcast through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism 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 March 22 in Topeka at the Kansas Museum of History, 6425 SW 6th Avenue.

Friday, December 30, 2011

2012 FISHING REGULATIONS SUMMARY AVAILABLE IN JANUARY

Latest rules; how, where, and what to fish for; new bait fish rules included

PRATT — Printed copies of the 2012 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summarybooklet will be available in early January, according to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). Among other things, the publication lists new regulations that take effect Jan. 1, 2012. From new regulations regarding bait fish to new lakes and ice fishing regulations, the booklet has everything the angler needs to begin the New Year right.

The following information details Kansas fishing regulation changes for 2012:

ANS-designated Waters

Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) waters are defined as waters containing the prohibited species Asian carp, white perch, and/or zebra mussels. Fish may not be transported alive from ANS-designated waters.

Bait

Wild-caught bait fish shall only be used on the body of water where taken. If taken on a flowing stream or river, wild-caught bait fish shall not be transported upstream across any dam or natural barrier.

New Lakes

Critzer Reservoir, near Mound City, was opened to fishing last spring. And ponds on the Grand Osage Wildlife Area, near Parsons, may be opened for fishing in 2012.

Transporting Fish/Bilges and Livewells

Stocking or releasing of wildlife on navigable publicly-owned rivers and federal reservioirs and department lands and waters is prohibited.

Livewells and bilges must be drained and drain plugs removed from all vessels prior to transport on a public highway.

No person may possess any live fish upon departure from any designated aquatic nuisance body of water.

Trout

Opening day of trout season for 2012 will be Nov. 1. Colby Villa High Lake has been added to the Type 1 list of waters stocked with trout.

Ice Fishing

Motorized electric or gasoline-powered two-wheeled vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, work-site utility vehicles, golf carts, and snowmobiles may be operated on ice-covered department waters only for the purpose of ice fishing from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. These vehicles shall enter onto the ice only from boat ramps and points of entry as established by posted notice.

The 2012 booklet also features state park and cabin information and detailed regulations for each body of water managed by KDWPT.

In addition, a full-color fish identification guide lists all the state's sportfish, complete with text descriptions and detailed illustrations by renowned fish illustrator Joseph Tomelleri. Look-alike species are grouped together with complementary text to help the angler discern the difference between such closely-related species as white bass and wipers; blue catfish and channel catfish; the state's three black basses; black and white crappie; and pallid, shovelnose, and lake sturgeon.

The booklet also provides the latest information about aquatic nuisance species (ANS) in Kansas waters, including a listing of ANS-designated waters by county. Three pages are dedicated to this subject, complete with detailed illustrations and tips on how to prevent the spread of ANS plants, mollusks, and fish.

Anglers who want to contact a district fisheries biologist will find a listing of names and phone numbers of the nearest biologist, as well as regional supervisors. A listing of natural resource officer contacts is also included.

For more information, contact the nearest KDWPT office, pick up a copy of the 2012 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary wherever licenses are sold in early Jan. Copies may also be downloaded from the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us, in early January. Click the “Fishing” icon at the top of the page, then “Fishing Regulations” in the left-hand column.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

EAGLES SOAR AT TUTTLE CREEK, OTHER KANSAS RESERVOIRS

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December 29, 2011

Wintering bald eagles a favorite of Kansas naturalists

PRATT — With the arrival of winter, the eagles have landed near many eastern Kansas reservoirs. Bald eagles have been migrating south, offering outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to see the national bird in its native habitat. To enhance this opportunity, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Tuttle Creek Reservoir has scheduled its annual Eagle Day 2012 for Saturday, Jan. 7, beginning at 9 a.m.

The program is free and open to the public. All participants are asked to meet at 9 a.m. in the large assembly room at the Manhattan Fire Station, 2000 Denison (the corner of Denison and Kimball) in Manhattan. At that time, Steve Walhe, a biologist with the U.S. Army Ft. Riley Conservation Office, will offer a short presentation on the nesting habits of bald eagles in Kansas. Vanessa Avara, assistant director of the Milford Nature Center, will then feature several live raptors in her discussion of eagles and other birds of prey.

Following the two presentations at the fire station, members of the Northern Flint Hills Audubon Society will take participants on a bus tour through areas near Tuttle Creek Lake, with the goal of watching bald eagles in the wild. All participants should dress appropriately for the weather and bring binoculars, spotting scopes, and cameras.

For more information on this event, phone Steve Prockish at the Corps of Engineers office, 785-539-8511 ext. 3167.

Milford Reservoir Eagle Day will begin at 9 a.m. on Jan. 14 and will include viewing tours and live eagle programs.

Other Eagle Days include:

Jan. 15 — F.L. Schlagle Library (on Wyandotte Lake);
Lawrence — Jan. 21 — Jayhawk Audubon's 2012 Kaw Valley Eagles Day;
Jan. 28 — Perry Reservoir; and
Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 —Chaplin Nature Center, Wichita.

Other Eagle Days will be held throughout Kansas. Watch the Events Calendar on KDWPT’s website www.kdwpt.state.ks.us or check the Natural Kansas website, www.naturalkansas.org. To learn more about eagles and other raptors, visit the Great Plains Nature Center's "Raptor's Roost," www.gpnc.org/raptors.htm.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

NEW YEAR, NEW LICENSES

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2011 licenses expire Dec. 31, some changes for 2012

PRATT—Ready or not, here comes 2012, and saying goodbye to 2011 means saying goodbye to last year’s park permits and hunting and fishing licenses, which expire Dec. 31. It’s easy to forget about buying new licenses because the holidays are so busy, but it’s never been easier or more convenient to purchase your new licenses and permits. Most licenses and park permits are sold at more than 200 vendors across the state, including all Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) offices, and licenses and permits can be purchased online from the convenience of home with your computer and printer.

While deer permits purchased in 2011 remain valid through the January seasons, hunters will need a 2012 hunting license before venturing out in January. Fishing licenses, trout stamps and third pole permits also expire Dec. 31, and it’s a good idea to buy all your licenses at once so you’re ready when an outdoor opportunity comes along.

Annual Kansas State Parks Vehicle Permits expire Dec. 31 and the off-season prices are available through the end of March. Park goers who buy now can save 20 percent on the cost of an Annual Vehicle Permit. However, the KDWPT Commission approved a recommendation to eliminate the Annual Second Vehicle Permit, which was available at a reduced cost. Other Commission action aimed at maintaining state parks services included increasing overnight camping fees $1 per utility.

More information about license and permit fees is only a click away at www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. Make a list and get all your 2012 licenses and permits so you can ring in the New Year outdoors

Saturday, December 24, 2011

WACONDA LAKE YOUTH/WOMEN PHEASANT HUNT A BIG SUCCESS

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Boys and girls hunt with celebrities and soldiers
GLEN ELDER — “There were 18 happy and tired kids — both girls and boys — leaving the Waconda Lake [Glen Elder Reservoir] area and heading home on the night of Saturday, Dec. 10,” said Chris Lecuyer, Glen Elder Wildlife Area manager.

These new hunters had just wrapped up a full day of activities after participating in the 14th Annual 2011 Waconda Lake Youth, Women, and Celebrity Pheasant Hunt. The event is co-sponsored by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) and Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors, Inc., of Wichita.

“We began before sunrise with a biscuits and gravy breakfast served by the Waconda Struttin’ Dusters Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation,” Lecuyer said. “The youngsters listened to a quick talk concerning regulations and safety, and then we introduced them to celebrities and heroes who would join them for the hunt.

Celebrities included John Gillotte, the 2010 National Youth Crappiemasters Champion; Wayne Hubbard, creator and host of Urban American Outdoors TV show; and Guy Caster, former professional drag race car driver. The youth were also joined by four true heroes, soldiers who had been wounded in action, including Colonel Phil McCune and Colonel Tom Kurlick from the Fort Riley Warrior Transition Battalion, and Captain Aaron Isaacson and Second Lieutenant Chad Blow from the Kansas National Guard of Topeka.

Near-perfect morning weather greeted the hunters after breakfast. They were divided into three groups to hunt for the rest of the morning. Several non-hunting adults, parents, and family members went with each group to serve as mentors for the inexperienced hunters. The groups hunted in portions of Glen Elder State Park and the refuges of Glen Elder Wildlife Area.

“Generally, public hunting is not allowed in these parts of the Waconda Lake property except for special events such as this,” Lecuyer explained. “The young hunters were definitely up to our challenge, and the groups managed to bag 16 roosters in just three hours of hunting. Many of the young hunters harvested their first-ever pheasants, and nearly everyone had the opportunity to take a shot or two at the tough birds. A couple of the kids actually harvested multiple birds, and even Colonel Kurlick got his first pheasant.”

A hamburger, hot dog, and chili lunch was served at noon by volunteers from the Waconda Lake Association. The association also sponsored a prize contest for the youth with the longest tail feather from their bird. Devin Basnatt’s 22 1/2 inch tail feather won by more than 1 inch.

After lunch, a trap shoot was held near the Glen Elder Area Office. Three shooting stations were available for the participants to hone their shooting skills. A few of the young hunters and their mentors decided to continue hunting during the afternoon at other locations on the wildlife area.

The day’s events concluded in the evening with a barbeque brisket supper at Memorial Hall in Downs. After the meal, each young hunter received a prize package and heard a few words and got autographs from the celebrities. Attendees also listened to information about youth and mentor hunting opportunities, the importance of recruiting new hunters, and the work of conservation organizations.

This year’s youth participants were Bryce Nichols – Beloit; Rhiley Kaser – Osborne; Bryce Griffin, Andrea Howard, Noah Bradley, Matt Parks, and Cole Sauber – Salina; Cody Heiland – Topeka; Ryan and Megan Richards – Stillwell; Marcus Florence – Olathe; Derek McCarthy – Kansas City, Brandon Regester, Dylan Brittain, Nick Miller, and Jakhai Adams – Wichita; and Devin Basnatt and Sabian Dolvig – Rose Hill.

“We couldn’t have done this without donations from of a host of local businesses,” Lecuyer said. “And a special thanks goes out to all the volunteers and mentors who gave their time to the kids. Almost 50 adults gave up a substantial portion of their day or weekend to help these young hunters.”

KDWPT and Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors believe that offering youth opportunities such as the Waconda Lake Youth, Women, and Celebrity Pheasant Hunt is vitally important to ensure both the development of future hunting generations and well-rounded young people. For information about future special hunts at Glen Elder, phone (785) 545-3345.

Friday, December 23, 2011

KANSAS LANDOWNER HONORED WITH NATIONAL FISH AND WILDLIFE STEWARDSHIP AWARD

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Grassland restoration projects, educational efforts garner national attention
PRATT — The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) — the organization that represents North America’s fish and wildlife agencies — has honored the Alexander Ranch of Barber County with the 2011 National Private Lands Fish and Wildlife Stewardship Award. The award recognizes an individual- or family-run farm, ranch, or forest operation that has incorporated proactive conservation and environmental protection measures into its operation. The Alexander Ranch is owned and operated by Ted, Brian, and Mona Alexander.

The Alexander Ranch became eligible for the national award by winning the 2011 Kansas Wildlife Habitat Conservation Award. The national award program receives one nomination from each of the 56 states and territories represented by AFWA.

“The Alexanders’ decades of dedication to the improvement of native grasslands in an area once over-grazed and degraded by the encroachment of eastern redcedar deserves statewide recognition,” said Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) wildlife biologist Chris Berens, who nominated the Alexander Ranch for the award. “Their management efforts created a diverse grassland that benefits livestock and a wide variety of wildlife species.”

The ranch covers more than 7,000 acres and has flourished as a custom grazing operation for the past 27 years. Partnering with several agencies, the Alexanders have leveraged resources to optimize the land’s environmental capabilities. Through these partnerships, the ranch operated on a rotational grazing system with three grazing cells, each split into many smaller paddocks, allowing 40-45 days post-grazing recovery time for the grass in each paddock. However, in the past two years, the Alexander Ranch experimented with a higher stocking rate, higher stock density, and herd impact along with a shorter grazing seasons — resulting in longer periods of grass recovery — which seems to be a success.

Additionally, a cooperative effort with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program and KDWPT was key to many of the accomplishments on the ranch, which is home to several wildlife and aquatic species considered at-risk or in need of conservation. This partnership helped the Alexanders interseed forbs on old cropland acres previously converted to native grass, enhance water developments, restore riparian areas, and expand the grazing system.

The ranch has also entered into a “Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances” with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. This voluntary agreement guarantees to address the conservation needs of a species before they become listed as endangered or threatened by specifying actions that will remove or reduce threats to the species.

“Any number of landowners could have won the National Private Lands Fish and Wildlife Stewardship Award based solely on habitat enhancements and other stewardship accomplishments on their ranches,” said Berens. “However, it’s the off-the-ranch activities that make the Alexanders stand out.”

One of the most notable is their willingness to share what they have learned throughout the years with other ranchers, either through one-on-one mentoring or through one of the many conservation organizations to which Ted and Brian belong or serve on the boards. Additionally, they have opened their ranch to training opportunities for public, state, and federal agency staff and have allowed many university students to conduct wildlife research, including the interaction of wildlife and grazing practices.

“The Alexander Ranch is a great example of how excellent ecosystem management can benefit both the producer and Kansas wildlife,” Berens added. “Congratulations and many thanks to the Alexander Ranch for their contributions to promoting wise working-land practices in Kansas.”

Thursday, December 22, 2011

GREAT FISHING PREDICTED FOR 2012

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KDWPT biologists use data to predict fishing prospects, stocking needs
PRATT — “Statewide, I think we’re looking at a very good year for anglers in 2012,” says Doug Nygren, Fisheries Section chief for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). What leads Nygren to this conclusion? The results of fish biologists’ 2011 fall fish sampling.

To monitor the health of fisheries and help anglers find the best places to fish, KDWPT’s 16 district fisheries biologists spend the fall sampling Kansas lakes. In addition, the agency raises and stocks millions of fish throughout the state annually, providing anglers abundant opportunities to catch a wide variety of species. Sampling lakes is the best way to determine population health and stocking needs, and fall is the best time to sample fish because it’s the end of the growing season.

Although biologists can't sample every lake in the state every year, periodic sampling results are assembled to show trends and multi-year averages for some lakes. This information is compiled into the KDWPT Fishing Forecast, available on the agency’s website

(www.kdwpt.state.ks.us) in January and published in the March/April issue ofKansas Wildlife & Parks magazine. The forecast is a valuable tool that can help anglers decide where to fish. Biologists also use sample and creel survey data to help them make stocking requests and length and creel limit recommendations for the 26 reservoirs, 40 state fishing lakes, and 230 community lakes the monitor and manage.

In the meantime, Nygren gives a brief preview of what anglers can expect:

“Our crappie populations look really good,” he says, “some of the best in years because of a resurgence of water levels in several reservoirs that flooded woody vegetation and created excellent fish habitat.” According to Nygren, fall fish sampling data indicates that a number of reservoirs will provide fine crappie fishing in 2012, including Lovewell, Hillsdale, Melvern, Big Hill, Perry, Elk City, Tuttle Creek, Milford, and Clinton.

“Next year should be one of our better years for largemouth bass, too,” Nygren adds. “Wilson, Sebelius, LaCygne, Webster, Perry, Hillsdale, and Big Hill reservoirs should all provide plenty of largemouth action.”

For those who prefer bigger fish, Nygren says this outlook is good, as well. “It’s going to be an outstanding year for wipers. Sebelius, Marion, Cheney, and Clinton will likely be our best reservoirs.

“But it’s not just these three species. Walleye fishing should better than most years, especially in Webster, Kirwin, Glen Elder, Milford, and Cedar Bluff reservoirs.”

Nygren adds that outstanding fishing can also be found in the smaller state fishing lakes and community lakes. Two relatively new lakes — Critzer Reservoir, near Mound City, and Horsethief Reservoir, near Jetmore — are just beginning to mature and will offer some great fishing.

In May, fisheries biologists may use electroshocking for bass, which temporarily stuns the fish, so they can be counted and then released. In October and November, gill-nets and trap nets are used to sample all sportfish. The nets are pulled onto a boat and the fish removed. Biologists then count, weigh, and measure each fish and record this information, taking care to get the fish back in the water quickly. Netting results are recorded on waterproof paper or a laptop computer.

With a laptop, biologists can enter data on the water, then enter it directly into the department's Aquatic Data Analysis System (ADAS) when they get back to the office, eliminating paperwork. ADAS also allows biologists to enter paper-recorded testing data into the system through a desktop computer. They can then compare results with past years' data, which lets them know the population dynamics of the lake tested and make management decisions, from stocking plans to length and creel limits.

Biologists also use Fisheries Analysis and Simulation Tools (FAST) software program, developed in conjunction with 20 other states. This computer application allows the field biologist to use data from the ADAS system and separate age and growth testing to predict what would happen if certain length or creel limits were imposed on a given lake. Tools such as this allow biologists to better manage fish populations and enhance angling opportunities.

Now that sampling is complete, anglers across Kansas can look forward to the 2012 Kansas Fishing Forecast, which will be available on the KDWPT website early in the new year.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNTS IN 112TH YEAR

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Kansas Ornithological Society Christmas Bird Count runs Dec. 11-Jan. 8; Audubon count Dec. 14-Jan. 5
PRATT — An early December cold spell has many bird lovers filling their backyard feeders and preparing for the winter delight of backyard bird watching. For the most avid of bird watchers, December is also the time to go afield and participate in the annual Christmas bird counts (CBCs), sponsored by the Kansas Ornithological Society (KOS) and the Kansas Audubon Society. Christmas bird counts are great for making new acquaintances, renewing old friendships, and learning more about birds and bird watching in Kansas.

This is the 112th year for organized Christmas bird counts, and more than 2,000 counts are held across the nation each year. Kansas averages 50 counts per year, with more than 40 scheduled so far this year and others yet to be announced. Many counts are concentrated in the eastern and southern parts of the state, but in recent years, more have been conducted in western portions of the state — such as Clark County and the Cimarron National Grasslands — providing additional opportunities to participate.

Christmas bird counts are conducted in circular census areas with a 7.5 mile radius. This is consistent from count-to-count and year-to-year, always surveying the same locations and ensuring that data collected is comparable for population trends over time.

CBCs are easy to prepare for, the best tools being a pair of binoculars, a good field guide, and appropriate clothing and footwear for possible extreme weather. For those counting in an area with a lake, a good spotting scope can be extremely helpful in identifying birds at a distance. It’s also a good idea to study what the expected species are for your location.

There are many count compilers in Kansas who only send data to the Kansas Ornithological Society (KOS), and these counts are free. The KOS will accept data collected on counts from Dec. 14 through Jan. 5, 2012, giving counters plenty of time to help survey their favorite areas. However, the official Audubon Christmas Bird Count period is Dec. 14 to Jan. 5 every year. The Audubon count requires a $5 participation fee for persons 18 and older, with the money going toward the cost of data publication.

Information about Kansas CBCs can be found at the Kansas Ornithological Society website,www.ksbirds.org. For details, just click Kansas Christmas Bird Counts. Information about Audubon counts may be found at birds.audubon.org/christmas-bird-count# .

Friday, December 16, 2011

DUCK SEASON CORRECTION

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Low Plains Late Zone and Low Plains Southeast Zone dates incorrect in news release
PRATT — In a Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism news release dated Dec. 15, 2011, an article entitled “HUNTING CHRISTMAS BREAK” lists dates of hunting seasons currently open or which will be open in December and January. Under the listing for duck hunting, dates for the Low Plains Late Zone and Low Plains Southeast Zone are reversed.

Duck hunting dates for these zones should read as follow:

ducks, Low Plains Late Zone — Oct. 29-Jan. 1, 2012 and Jan. 21-29, 2012; and
ducks, Low Plains Southeast Zone — Nov. 5-Jan. 8, 2012 and Jan. 21-29, 2012.

KDWPT ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY OFFICE SCHEDULE

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State parks open for use but some park offices closed during holiday period
PRATT — All Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism offices will be closed for the Christmas holiday, Dec. 26, as well as Jan. 2 for New Year’s Day. While all state parks will be open for visitation and use, some state park offices will be closed additional days, including the following:

Western Kansas

Cedar Bluff State Park — closed Dec. 30;
Glen Elder State Park — closed Dec. 22 at noon through Jan. 2;
Lovewell State Park — closed Dec. 27;
Meade State Park — closed Dec. 27;
Prairie Dog State Park — closed Dec. 23;
Scott State Park — closed Dec. 23; and

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Webster State Park — closed Dec. 30 at noon.

Central Kansas

Cheney State Park — closed Dec. 23 and Dec. 30 at noon;
Kanopolis State Park — closed Dec. 23-27 and Dec. 30;
Milford State Park — closed Dec. 27 and Dec. 30; and
Wilson State Park — closed Dec. 23-27 and Dec. 30.

Eastern Kansas

Clinton State Park — closed Dec. 22;
Crawford State Park — closed Dec. 23;
Cross Timbers State Park — closed Dec. 28 and Dec. 30;
Hillsdale State Park — closed Dec. 30;
Eisenhower State Park — closed Dec. 30;
Elk City State Park — closed Dec. 23;
Pomona State Park — closed Dec. 22; and
Prairie Spirit State Park — closed Dec. 23.

HUNTING CHRISTMAS BREAK

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Many seasons open during Christmas, New Year’s break
PRATT — Most people take some time off work during the Christmas and New Year holidays, and this is a perfect time to take advantage of cool-weather hunting with family and friends. It can be an excellent time to hunt because colder weather may hold game birds tight, bring mallards into the state, and fatten up squirrels and cottontails.

January antlerless deer seasons are especially popular for hunters who have not filled a permit or who want to put more deer in the freezer. Unfilled permits purchased in the fall of 2011 are valid for these seasons. All unfilled permits revert to Whitetail Antlerless Only and retain unit restrictions listed on the permit. All hunters should remember that a 2012 Kansas hunting license is also required beginning Jan. 1.

Cool weather not only makes game easier to locate, but competition for places to hunt is lighter than in the fall. For those looking for a good holiday hunt, the following season dates remain or will be open in late 2011 and into 2012:

fall turkey — Dec. 12-31 and Jan. 9-31, 2012;
archery deer — Sept. 19-Dec. 31;
extended firearm season (whitetail antlerless only, open statewide) — Jan.1-8, 2012;
special extended firearm season (whitetail antlerless only, units 7, 8, and 15 only) — Jan. 9-15, 2012;
extended archery season (whitetail antlerless only, Unit 19 only) — Jan. 9-31, 2012;
exotic dove (Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves only) — Nov. 20-Feb. 28, 2012;
ducks, Early Zone — Dec. 17-Jan. 1, 2012;
ducks, High Plains Zone — Oct. 8-Jan. 2, 2012 and Jan. 21-29, 2012;
ducks, Low Plains Late Zone — Oct. 29-Jan. 1, 2012 and Jan. 21-29, 2012; and
ducks, Low Plains Southeast Zone — Nov. 5-Jan. 8, 2012 and Jan. 21-29, 2012.
Canada geese (including Brant) — Nov. 9-Feb. 12, 2012;
white-fronted geese — Oct. 29-Jan. 1, 2012 and Feb. 4-12, 2012;
light geese — Nov. 9-Feb. 12, 2012 and by special conservation order from Feb. 13-April 30, 2012;
pheasant — Nov. 12-Jan. 31, 2012;
quail — Nov. 12-Jan. 31, 2011;
prairie chicken — East and Northwest zones, Nov. 19-Jan. 31, 2012 and Southwest Zone, Nov. 19-Dec. 31;
squirrel — June 1-Feb. 29, 2012; and
rabbit — open year round.

For detailed information on hunting units, bag and possession limits, and other information, consult the 2011 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary, available wherever licenses are sold or on the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us.

Saturday, December 10, 2011

DEER HUNTERS: TAG YOUR DEER PROPERLY

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Nonresidents should know laws regarding transport through other states, as well
PRATT — The regular Kansas firearm deer season is winding down, but archery season remains open the rest of the year, and several whitetail antlerless-only seasons will be held in January. After a deer is taken, hunters must dress the deer out, cool it down, and get it to a place for processing — all of which is hard work. But before moving the deer, the hunter must fill out his or her carcass tag and attach it to the deer. There is more to this than meets eye.
“Hunters need to make sure they attach the carcass tag securely,” says Mark Rankin, assistant director of Law Enforcement for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). “We have problems every year when hunters get to a locker or are stopped en route and there is no tag on their deer, but they say they have tagged it. Follow-up often reveals that they did have a permit, but the carcass tag had blown off in the back of the vehicle. In that case, we have no choice but to investigate. In some cases, a citation may be issued.”
The best way to tag a deer is to follow the directions in the 2011 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary, Page 16, available at KDWPT offices and license vendors, as well as the KDWPT website,www.kdwpt.ks.us.
Another issue regarding tagging affects nonresidents who may want to have their deer meat processed in Kansas and shipped home, but they want to travel home with the head and antlers. Or they may want to donate the meat in Kansas and travel home with the head and antlers. Kansas law requires that the carcass tag remain attached to the animal until processed and remain with the meat.
“In these cases, we suggest that the hunter keep the top part of their deer permit with the head and antlers,” Rankin explains. “The carcass tag must remain with the carcass, but if the hunter keeps the top half of the permit with the head and antlers, he’ll be within the law.”
It’s not just Kansas law that’s at issue, however. Many states have adopted strict regulations to prevent the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Typically, these regulations do not allow the transportation of a deer head with brain tissue from a state with confirmed CWD cases (which includes Kansas). Hunters have been cited in other states and had their deer confiscated for not complying with the transportation laws of that state. Boned meat, as well a the cleaned skull cap and antlers, may be all that can be legally transported in some states.
Nonresident hunters should check the laws regarding transport of deer in all states through which they plan to transport any portion of a harvested deer.

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