PITTSBURG TO HOST JUNE 19 KDWPT COMMISSION MEETING

Public unable to attend can watch the meeting streamed live through ksoutdoors.com 

PRATT – The public is invited to attend an upcoming Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission meeting, June 19 at the Lamplighter Inn & Suites, 4020 Parkview Dr., Pittsburg. The afternoon session will run from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and reconvene at 6:30 p.m. for the evening session.

The afternoon session will begin with time for public comments on non-agenda items, followed by a general discussion period. Topics covered in the general discussion include: Secretary’s remarks regarding agency and state fiscal status and an update on the 2014 legislature, tourism division activities, 2015 turkey regulations, and information on the mined land restoration project.

Workshop topics for the afternoon session include items that were covered under general discussion during the April meeting. Workshop topics, which will be discussed for potential regulatory action at a future meeting, include park regulations, fishing regulations, late migratory bird seasons, the five-year review of the Kansas Threatened and Endangered Species List, and the use of dogs to track wounded or dead deer.

The commission will recess at 5 p.m., then reconvene at 6:30 p.m. at the same location to discuss any remaining workshop items and begin the public hearing. Public hearing items open for discussion during the evening session include early migratory bird seasons; public land regulations; Ft. Riley deer season dates; big game and wild turkey provisions; and prairie chicken hunting.

Time will be available in both the afternoon and evening sessions for public comment on non-agenda items. If necessary, the commission will reconvene at the same location at 9 a.m., June 20, to complete any unfinished business.

A commercial-free version of live video and audio streaming of commission meetings will be broadcast through ksoutdoors.com.

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 August 21, 2014 at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 592 NE K157 Hwy, Great Bend.

HOW TO FIND A FISHING HOLE THIS SUMMER

Finding a fishing hot spot in Kansas this summer is easier than you think

PRATT ­– If you’ve ever been fishing, you know there are a multitude of questions that can

flutter through an angler’s mind – why were the fish biting yesterday and not today? Did I put the right line on? Should I use a chartreuse or white spinner bait? All of these are valid questions, but where to fish shouldn’t be one of them. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) has several tools available to help make your day on the water as successful as possible.

By visiting ksoutdoors.com, and clicking “Fishing,” anglers can access four invaluable resources that will give any angler an edge this summer, including: the 2014 Fishing Forecast, 2014 Fishing Atlas, up-to-date fishing reports, and stocking records.

2014 FISHING FORECAST

The 2014 Fishing Forecast uses data gathered from sampling efforts of public waters during annual lake monitoring, and because of this, anglers can rest assured they are receiving the best possible information on where to fish and what to fish for. In addition to what species of fish can be caught at any given body of water, the forecast also includes tables with Density Ratings, Preferred Ratings, and Lunker Ratings, as well as information on the Biggest Fish sampled, Biologist’s Ratings, and a Three-Year Average of popular species.

2014 FISHING ATLAS

The 2014 Fishing Atlas is a 60-page compilation of detailed, easy-to-read maps, making it a must-have for any angler. In addition to maps of public waters, anglers can also find maps of Fishing Impoundment and Stream Habitats (F.I.S.H.) waters, Community Fisheries Assistance Program (CFAP) leased properties, and lakes deemed as Family Friendly Facilities (FFF).

FISHING REPORTS

If you’re looking for the most up-to-date information on a specific body of water, fishing reports are the way to go. Compiled and entered in by KDWPT field staff, each week these fishing reports share everything from fishing success and water temperature, to lake levels and other pertinent information for that specific location. Anglers can even find out what baits and lures are catching the most fish.

STOCKING RECORDS

To improve fishing opportunities in urban areas where the demand for fish exceeds the supply, the Department created an urban fish stocking program. Seventy-seven lakes currently are stocked with 3/4- to 1 1/2-pound channel catfish, hybrid sunfish, and wipers as often as every two weeks from April through September. If you live in Atchison, Butler, Douglas, Finney, Johnson, Leavenworth, Lyon , Ottawa, Pottawatomie, Reno, Riley, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee, or Wyandotte county, you have an urban lake near you. These are great locations for a quick family fishing trip. Just throw the gear in the car and make the short drive to the nearest designated urban fishing lake. Click on the “Urban Fishing Program” link under “Special Fishing Programs For You” at ksoutdoors.com for stocking records and more information.

With a little time and research, anglers can experience truly one-of-a-kind public fishing on Kansas’ some 24 reservoirs, 40 state fishing lakes, 200 community lakes, and several streams and rivers – you just have to know where to look.

THREE KANSAS STATE PARKS MAKE “TOP 36 STUNNING STATE PARKS” LIST

Out of more than 7,500 U.S. state parks, Kansas makes the list three times

PRATT – While compiling a list of some of our country’s best state parks, The Active Times

couldn’t ignore the state of Kansas; in fact, they couldn’t ignore the sunflower state three times. Out of more than 7,500 U.S. state parks to choose from, three Kansas state parks made the media group’s “36 Stunning U.S. State Parks” list. Kanopolis State Park was listed No. 14, Lake Scott State Park No. 23, and Wilson State Park No. 34.

The following write-ups accompanied a photo of each park in the publication:

Kanapolis State Park

This state park is situated amidst the striking Smoky Hills region of Kansas and is treasured for its many miles of hiking trails that meander through canyons, prairies, and wooded creek bottoms. The sublime Dakota sandstone bluffs and craggy Horsethief Canyon decorate the park and its surrounding area presenting pristine views of what's considered some of Kansas’ most stunning scenery.

Lake Scott State Park

Named to National Geographic’s list of the country’s 50 must-see state parks, this aptly named “stunning oasis” has everything you could want in a park. Spanning 1,020 acres, the natural features include wooded canyons, rugged bluffs and fresh springs. Lake Scott is large enough to accommodate boating and fishing and the extensive trail system allows horseback riding. With more than 26 archeological sites in the area, the remarkable features are more than just aesthetically pleasing.

Wilson State Park

This 945-acre park is tucked away in the center of the Smoky Hills and is well attended for the scenery its location affords. Hiking trails offer unrivaled views of native Kansas prairie and the Wilson Reservoir. Camping accommodations and cabins are available throughout the park and land is dedicated to mountain biking, fishing and hunting (in season only).

The next time you plan a family outing or a weekend on the lake, consider checking out one of Kansas’ many list-worthy state parks before crossing state lines. You just might find something stunning right here at home.

To view the complete list of The Active Times’ “36 Stunning U.S. State Parks,” visit

www.theactivetimes.com/36-stunning-us-state-parks.

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CHICKADEE CHECKOFF SMALL GRANTS APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO JUNE 15

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For 34 years wildlife and wildlife enthusiasts have benefited from this unique program

PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism has extended the deadline for accepting proposals for the Chickadee Checkoff Small Grants Program through June 15, 2014. Grant recipients carry out projects focused on wildlife diversity and native nongame wildlife species while addressing the issues and strategies within the Kansas Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Plan “A Future for Kansas Wildlife.”

By making small grants available, the department is able to utilize the talents and expertise of people outside of the department. The diverse projects completed as a result of this program have led to numerous publications in scientific journals, educational products, and new information on native nongame wildlife species and their habitats.

Interested parties have until June 15 to turn in a completed grant proposal. For program information on this program, including eligibility requirements and to view a list of priority projects for 2014, download the grant guidance document, or visit ksoutdoors.com and click “Services / Wildlife Diversity / Chickadee Checkoff.”

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GREAT PLAINS NATURE CENTER TO HOST 30TH ANNUAL WALK WITH WILDLIFE

Participants can get up-close with more than 50 wildlife species

PRATT – How many times have you taken a hike and not seen any wildlife? Well, if you visit Saturday, June 14, the Great Plains Nature Center staff will bring the animals to you!

Chisholm Creek Park, 6232 E. 29th Street North, Wichita, on

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can leisurely stroll through the park’s universally-accessible nature trail as they get up-close with more than 50 wildlife species at stations set up along the way. Volunteers will be available at each station to visit with guests and answer questions. Apart from wildlife viewing, attendees will also have a slew of other events to enjoy, including:

-Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s Mobile Aquarium

-Wichita Eagle Kids Fishing Clinic (registration form available in the Wichita Eagle newspaper)

-Lunch concessions

-Programs, movies and activities in the Coleman Auditorium

-Hands-on animal, plant and habitat displays in the Koch Habitat Hall

Kiddos also might see a familiar face walking along the trail as “Clifford the Big Red Dog” character will be making the rounds thanks to Kansas Public Telecommunications Service, a PBS station.  

Before heading home, attendees can visit the Owl’s Nest Gift Shop located inside the Great Plains Nature Center to purchase a souvenir to help them remember their wild day.  

The event, sponsored by Spirit Aerosystems, is a great activity for young or old, or any group or organization. Admission donations are $2 per person, and strollers are welcome.

For more information, call the Great Plains Nature Center at (316) 683-5499, or visit www.gpnc.org.

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KANSAS OFFERS FREE FISHING JUNE 7-8

Anglers don’t need a Kansas fishing licenseJune 7-8

PRATT ­– What’s better than a day of free fishing? Two days of free fishing, of course. Across the state, June 7-8 on any Kansas waters. Although some parks may require a vehicle permit, no fishing license is required of anglers during the two-day period.

anglers of all ages can enjoy a full weekend of free fishing

Below are just a few examples of the fun that can be had during the free fishing weekend:

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Kids fishing clinic

Meade State park

1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Concessions available for purchase

Some fishing equipment provided; however, participants are encouraged to bring their own if they have it.

For more information, or to pre-register, call the Meade State Park Office at (620) 873-2572.

KIDS FISHING CLINIC AND CASTING CONTEST

Milford Nature Center – Gathering Pond

8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

The first 100 registered youth ages 5-12 are invited to participate.

Lunch provided.

Raffle prizes drawn for all in attendance.

For more information, or to pre-register, call the Milford Nature Center at (785) 238-5323.

KIDS FISHING CLINIC

Pomona State park – Boat Ramp #2

8 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Youth ages 15 and younger are invited to participate.

Fishing poles and bait provided; however, participants are encouraged to bring their own pole.

This event qualifies participants for the Kansas Wildlifer Challenge - "WET A LINE.” Wildlifers are encouraged to bring a camera.

For more information, call the Pomona State Park Office at (785) 828-4933.

KIDS FISHING CLINIC

Pratt KDWPT Operations Office, Kids’ Pond

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Youth ages 7-15 are invited to participate. Registration deadline is June 5.

Fishing equipment provided.

Lunch provided.

Participants can enjoy the Pratt Nature Center/Museum, as well as a freshwater mussel/clam exhibit from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. the day of the event.

For more information, or to pre-register, call the Pratt Recreation Office at (620) 672-3261, or the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Pratt Operations Office at (620) 672-5911.

10TH ANNUAL YOUTH FISHING TOURNAMENT

Glen Elder State Park

8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Youth fishing tournament and OK Kids Day – prizes for every participant.

Contact Scott Waters at (785) 545-3345.

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

KIDS FISHING CLINIC

Lovewell State Park

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The first 50 registered youth ages 7-16 are invited to participate. Registration deadline is June 2.

Fishing equipment and supplies provided.

Lunch and drinks provided.

Demonstrations will be given on fish identification, knot tying, casting, lure selection, fishing hot spots, and fish cleaning.

For more information, or to pre-register, call the Lovewell State Park Office at (785) 753-4971.

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Antelope Hunting Information

Applications accepted online through June 13

PRATT — Applications for resident-only antelope firearm and muzzleloader permits are being accepted now through June 13.  Only online applications are accepted and are available ksoutdoors.com. Click "License/Permits" in the upper right-hand corner of the page to begin the process. For more information, call 620-672-0728.

through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website,

Open to Kansas residents only, more than 1,000 applications are expected for the 140 firearm and 40 muzzleloader permits available this year. Hunters who are unsuccessful in the drawing receive a preference point. It may require six or more preference points for a general resident to draw a firearm permit, or three or four preference points to draw a muzzleloader permit, depending on the number of applicants. Half the permits allocated in each unit are set aside for landowner/tenant applicants. Those who do not want to apply for a permit and want to purchase a preference point only may select "preference point only" online for $7.69. Only one preference point may be obtained per year.

Archery antelope permits are unlimited, and both resident and nonresident hunters can purchase permits over the counter. The open archery unit comprises the same area as the three firearm units combined. Archery antelope permits will be available over the counter from Aug. 1 through Oct. 30.

2014 antelope season dates:

• firearm season — Oct. 3-6;
• muzzleloader season — Sept. 29-Oct. 6; and
• archery season — Sept. 20-28 and Oct. 11-31.

Shooting hours for all seasons are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

For more information on antelope hunting, unit maps, and regulations go to www.ksoutdoors.com, click on “Hunting,” “Big Game Information,” and “Antelope.”

The first modern-day antelope (properly called "pronghorn") hunting season in Kansas was held in 1974. Nearly 500 hunters applied for 80 permits, and 70 animals were harvested. Today, hunting is restricted to three management units that include parts or all of Sherman, Thomas, Wallace, Logan, Gove, Trego, Greeley, Wichita, Scott, Lane, Ness, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Gray, Hodgeman, Ford, Stanton, Grant, Haskell, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade and Clark counties.

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