Commission To Discuss 2017 Turkey Hunting Regulations

PRATT – The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission will conduct a public meeting in Clay Center at Life’s Finer Moments, 1285 16th Road, on August 11, 2016. The afternoon session will begin at 1 p.m. and recess at 5 p.m. The evening session will convene at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend both sessions and time is set aside for public comment at the beginning of each for discussion of non-agenda items.

The afternoon session will begin with Secretary Robin Jennison’s report on the agency and state fiscal status and an update on pertinent 2016 legislative actions. The General Discussion portion of the meeting will include a review of big game regulations, a Tourism Division update, discussion on the Flint Hills Nature Trail Project, and an update on Ducks Unlimited wetlands projects in the state.

The evening portion of the meeting will convene at 6:30 p.m. for the Workshop Session where topics include 2017 turkey regulations, park regulations, fishing regulations, and regulations pertaining to threatened and endangered species will be discussed.

If necessary, the commission will reconvene at the same location at 9 a.m., August 12, to complete any unfinished business. Information about the Commission, as well as the August 11 meeting agenda and Briefing Book, can be downloaded at ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission/Upcoming-Commission-Meetings.

Live video and audio streaming of the August 11 meeting will be available at 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 Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism commission meeting is scheduled for October 20, 2016, in Liberal.

Kansas Game Wardens Recognized For Exemplary Service

PRATT – The Law Enforcement Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism recognized officers and other individuals for work and services performed above and beyond the call of duty. The annual awards are presented in several categories, including Meritorious Work, Lifesaving, Natural Resource Education, Boating Safety Enforcement, Investigations, Cooperative Projects and Officer of the Year.

The Merit Award was presented to Capt. Dan Melson for his work in developing and maintaining the Game Wardens’ Facebook page and an application allowing the Law Enforcement Division to more efficiently record violations.

Game warden Jonathan Rather was awarded the Natural Resource Education Advancement Award for his work in implementing hunter education programs in the area school systems.

 The Boating Officer of the Year Award was presented to game warden Jeff Clouser for his extensive work in the area of boating safety enforcement, including dealing with stranded boaters, investigating boating accidents and enforcing boating under the influence laws.

Game warden Hal Kaina received the Lifesaving Award for his efforts in two incidents where individuals were facing life-threatening circumstances. In one incident, officer Kaina rescued a hunter who had broken through the ice. In another incident, officer Kaina aided in the rescue of four individuals, including children, after their boat had sunk in the middle of the reservoir. Game warden Cody Morris was awarded the Lifesaving Award for his assistance in rescuing a family adrift on a boat with a motor that would not start.

Lt. Rick Campbell and game wardens Jesse Gehrt and Travis Schulte received Lifesaving Awards for rescues they performed on the Kansas River. In one situation Lt. Campbell and officer Gehrt rescued a man whose canoe had overturned in the river. Later in the summer, a family who were floating the Kansas River became stranded on a sandbar after getting caught in a severe thunderstorm. Officers Gehrt and Schulte, along with a local emergency medical technician, got the family, which included a 4-month-old baby, to safety.

The Richard Harrold Memorial Award for Investigations was presented to game warden Josh DeHoux for his efforts investigating big game violations in his assigned area.

The Director’s Award was presented to a large group of game wardens, department staff and a private citizen for their work in hosting the conference of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. Those recognized include: Major Dan Hesket, Capt. B.J. Thurman, Lt. Eric Deneault, Lt. Dave Adams, Lt. Jeff Sutton, Lt. Mike Peterson, Lt. Scott Hanzlicek, Lt. Bob Funke, game wardens Michael McGinnis, Cody Morris, Jesse Gehrt, Tracy Cikanek, Dennis Zehr, Jim Bussone, Matt Hanvey, Jon Entwhistle, Vince Wonderlich, Scott Leamon, Jeremy Stenstrom, Ross Uhrmacher, Glenn Cannizzaro, Mike Hopper, Greg Salisbury, Landen Cleveland, Ryan Smidt, Lance Hockett, Chris Stout, Daniel Howard, Aaron Scheve, Clint Lee, Jacob Greene, Lynn Koch and Jonathan Rather; Erika Brooks and Shelby Stevens of the Education Section; Jason Deal and David Jenkins of the Public Lands Division; Tony Reitz of the Parks Division; and volunteer, Jenna Scheve.

Game warden Jesse Gehrt received the Officer of the Year Award, a joint recognition by the Law Enforcement Division and the Shikar Safari Club International. Gehrt has performed his duties above and beyond what is normally expected, and is extensively involved in all aspects of being a game warden. Apart from his daily duties, ties to his local community, and many other contributions around the state, Gehrt is also a member of the division’s Honor Guard.

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Running Season To Open March 1

PRATT–Except for beaver trapping season, which runs through March 31, all other furbearer trapping and hunting seasons closed Feb. 15. However, the Kansas Department of Wildlife,  Parks and Tourism reminds hound enthusiasts that the furbearer running season begins March 1. This is the time for houndsmen and their dogs to hone skills necessary during the furbearer hunting seasons.

During the running season, no furbearer may be killed or taken. In addition, it is illegal for runners to possess any firearm or other weapon while pursuing furbearers during the running season. Legal hours for running furbearers are 24 hours daily, and a furharvester license is required. The running season is open through Nov. 1.

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Last Chance To Buy Lifetime License Before Fees Increase

PRATT – As 2015 winds to a close, there are several important things Kansas hunters and anglers need to know: 2015 licenses expire December 31. All 2016 licenses will go on sale December 15, and if you purchase a 2016 license before January 1, it is valid through the rest of 2015 and all of 2016. You should also know that fees will increase for 2016. However, new license options provide significant savings. Remember, too, that lifetime licenses can be purchased through December 31, 2015 at the current price – $440. The new fee will be $500 for a lifetime fishing, hunting or furharvesting license, beginning January 1, 2016. A combination fishing/hunting combination license will cost $960.

The new fee for an annual fishing or hunting license will be $25. However, if you purchase an annual combination hunting/fishing license beforeFebruary 1, the price is $40. After February 1, an annual combination hunting/fishing license will cost $45.

Another way to save is to purchase the 5-year hunting and fishing licenses. A five-year hunting or fishing license is $100, a $25 savings over purchasing the license every year. And a 5-year hunt/fish combination license is $180, a $70 savings over purchasing each license individually every year.

Hunting and fishing licenses make great stocking stuffers and a lifetime license is truly a gift that keeps on giving. You will find the application for a lifetime hunting, fishing or furharvesting license and see all new fees for 2016 at www.ksoutdoors.com.

Hunting Private Land in Kansas is a Privilege

PRATT – Property boundaries aren’t always clear-cut, but the rules for hunting private land are. Because Kansas is 97 percent privately owned, landowners still provide access for most of our hunting opportunities. Know and follow some of these key private land hunting rules to prevent an early end to your season, and more importantly, to ensure good relationships are maintained between hunters and landowners.

-Kansas law requires all hunters to have landowner permission before hunting on private land whether the land is posted with “No Hunting” signs or not. If the land is posted with “Hunting With Written Permission Only” signs or marked with purple paint, hunters must have written permission from the landowner.

-Make a point to notify the landowner of when you plan to hunt and how many will be in your party. This is a common courtesy that will help keep the lines of communication open, and also can aid landowners in determining whether illegal hunters are trespassing on their property.

-Leave the land how you found it, or better. This can include things as simple as closing gates after you leave, sticking to maintained roads, and removing any trash you find.

-All deer hunters and persons assisting them must wear orange during an open firearm or muzzleloader season. An orange hat and at least 200 square inches of orange is required. Of this, 100 square inches must be visible from the front and 100 square inches must be visible from the back on the upper half of the body. Camouflage orange providing the required orange is legal.

-Know the property boundaries and know them well. Hunting from roads or railways without permission is a form of trespassing called criminal hunting; since the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is one of 44 states in the Wildlife Violator Compact, conviction of trespass or criminal hunting may prevent the convicted person from enjoying hunting privileges in other states, as well.

Hunting private land in Kansas is a privilege and should be treated as such. Take advantage of private land access and chances are, you may be looking for a new spot next season. Treat landowners and their property with the same respect you would expect from someone on your land, and great things can come of it.

If you witness trespassing or illegal hunting, please call the Operation Game Thief toll-free hotline at 1-877-426-3843.

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Youth Shooting Sports Clinic Planned

COUNCIL GROVE – Youth age 11-16 are invited to attend a fun and friendly shotgun and archery shooting and safety clinic on Saturday, October 24 at Council Grove Reservoir. This special event is part of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s “Pass It On” program and will provide participants with opportunities to enhance firearm and archery shooting and safety skills, in a controlled, safe environment. There is no cost to attend and all equipment, including shotguns, shells, bows, arrows, targets, and eye and ear protection will be provided. Youth need only a desire to learn and have fun. Interested youth must preregister by Oct. 20.  Students are not required to have completed a hunter education course, but prior completion is preferred.

The event will begin at 12 p.m. at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-managed (COE) area between Marina Cove and Neosho Park, approximately 0.25 miles west of the COE office at the west end of the dam. Check-in and a free lunch will take place from 12 p.m.-12:30 p.m., courtesy of the Flint Hills Chapter of Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation. Instruction will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will end approximately at 4 p.m. Participants will be provided with safety and shooting instruction by certified firearm and archery skills instructors, and teaching methods almost guarantee that students will be breaking shotgun targets by the end of the session.

Door prizes will be awarded, including a youth model .243 bolt action rifle with scope, donated by the Chisholm Trail Chapter of Safari Club International.

Additional event sponsors include the Bill Young Foundation and Morris County Hunter Education instructors.

For more information, contact Council Grove Wildlife Area manager, Brent Konen, at (620) 767-5900.

License Fees, Duck Zones and Fishing Regulations on Commission Agenda

The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission will conduct a public meeting in Burlington on October 22, 2015 at the Coffey County Library, 410 Juniatta Street. The afternoon session will begin at 1 p.m. and will recess for supper at 5 p.m. The meeting will reconvene for the Public Hearing portion at 6:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend all portions of the meeting.

Items on the afternoon General Discussion agenda include a report on the fiscal status of the agency and state by Secretary Robin Jennison; the upcoming 2016 session of the Kansas Legislature; Kansas tourism, staff report on the Coffey County Lake fishery, the Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge, and antelope and elk regulations. Workshop items include deer hunting regulations and big game permanent regulations.

The Public Hearing portion will begin at 6:30 p.m. Items to be discussed and voted on by the commission include hunting and fishing fees, big game and turkey permit applications, definitions concerning setline fishing, fishing regulations near fish ladders, length and creel limits and duck zone boundary changes.

Time will be available during 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., October 23, to complete any unfinished business.

Live video and audio streaming of the meeting will be available at 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 Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2016 at the K-State Alumni Center in Manhattan.

23rd Annual Kinsley Kids Klassic Coming Up

PRATT – The 23rd Kinsley Kids Klassic, an annual trapshooting event, will be held Saturday, October 3. The event is open to youth shooters through high school age, including 2015 graduates.

Participants will first shoot 50 16-yard targets at the Dodge City Gun Club, then 50 handicap targets at the Kinsley Gun Club.

Every shooter will get a door prize, including a chance to win one of four guns, which will be awarded by drawing. Cabela’s gift cards and trophies will be awarded to the top individuals in each age group and to the top three teams. Special awards will also be presented to 4-H members and young ladies. 

The cost to attend is $25 per youth and includes 100 targets, lunch, event t-shirt and door prize. Registrations must be received by Sept. 28 at noon.

For more information on this unique event, or to register, contact Frank O’Brien, toll free at (888) 324-5445, or by e-mail at franko@gbta.net.

Forfeited Outdoor Equipment and Antlers To Be Auctioned

PRATT – Wilson Realty and Auction Service of Salina will conduct a consignment auction on September 19 to sell items forfeited by the courts to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). The auction will take place at 601 South Broadway, Salina, beginning at 10 a.m. KDWPT regularly sells items forfeited in poaching cases or agency equipment no longer in use through public auctions.

Items to be sold on September 19 include 46 guns, more than 300 mounted deer heads and antlers, boats, jet skis, deer stands, decoys, as well as other equipment from non-department sellers. A sale bill can be downloaded at www.soldbywilson.com.

KDWPT’s proceeds will be deposited into the department’s WildTrust fund and allocated to assist with special hunts for veterans and youth and hunter education.

Fishing and Hunting Fees Discussed

GREAT BEND ­– During the Workshop portion of the Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission’s August public meeting in Great Bend, commissioners heard a proposal from department staff to raise fees for hunting and fishing licenses. The proposal outlined fee history, revenue needs and compared proposed fees with those of surrounding states.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) has not increased hunting and fishing license fees since 2002, and fees for deer and turkey permits haven’t increased since 1984. However, the department has arrived at a critical point due to inflation, and increased revenue is needed to maintain pivotal wildlife and fishery programs. Spending has remained constant, but the uncommitted portion of the Wildlife Fee Fund has begun to shrink. A healthy Wildlife Fee Fund with an uncommitted balance is important for cash flow at certain times of the year and ensures that excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment allotted to the state through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program can be captured.

KDWPT staff outlined the programs that need continued funding to provide quality hunting and fishing opportunities and ensure wildlife and important habitats are conserved. Priority programs include: Walk–In Hunting Access – leases more than 1 million acres of private land for public hunting access, more than tripling the amount of land open to hunting; FISH – leases private ponds and streams for angling access; Community Fisheries Assistance Program – enhances fishing opportunities on community-owned lakes and pays to remove any angler fees; the Pass It On and Aquatic Education programs – provide hunting, fishing and outdoor experiences to thousands of youth annually; and private land programs – assist landowners to improve wildlife habitat with economically feasible methods. There are also day-to-day operations that require funding, including law enforcement, four state fish hatcheries that produce 100 million sport fish annually, managing wildlife and habitat on more than 350,000 acres of federal and state land, and managing sport fisheries on 24 federal reservoirs, 44 state fishing lakes and more than 200 community lakes.

The fee proposal also includes recommendations for value-added options with substantial savings. For example, resident hunters and anglers currently pay $18 for a fishing or hunting license and $36 for an annual combination license. The proposed fee for a general resident hunting or fishing license is $25, but the proposal also includes an annual fish/hunt combination license for $45 and an early-buy combination for $40 if purchased before March 1. The proposed early-buy combo license would be just $4 more than what current combo license buyers are paying.

Other value-added licenses being recommended include 5-year hunting and fishing licenses. The recommended price for a five-year fishing or hunting license is $100, a savings of $25. The price for a five-year combination hunting/fishing license would be $180, which is a $70 savings and equal to what hunters are paying currently for combination licenses over a five-year period.

Other recommended fee increases include: nonresident hunting license from $70 to $95; nonresident deer permit from $315 to $415; nonresident spring turkey permit from $30 to $60; general resident deer permits from $30 to $40; and resident turkey permits from $20 to $25. A complete listing of all proposed fee changes can be downloaded from www.ksoutdoors.com, by clicking on “Commission,” “Pending Draft Regulations,” and then “October 22, 2015 60-day Notice.” The fees changes are included in K.A.R. 115-2-1.

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Kansas Wild Turkey Federation to Host JAKES Camp

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) will hold its 2015 Kansas State JAKES Camp September 12-13. The event is open to youth 17 and younger and will be conducted at White Memorial Camp, 6 miles north of Council Grove, off Highway K-177.  On Saturday, youth can enjoy up to six activities, including fishing, arts and crafts, JAKES Take Aim BB gun shooting, disc golf, trap shooting, still target shooting, archery, canoeing, flint knapping, and turkey calling with three time World Champion Steve Stoltz. On Saturday evening, JAKES members can participate in the annual NWTF Kansas State JAKES (youth aged 12 and under) and Xtreme JAKES (youth aged 13 to 17) Turkey Calling Contest. Prizes will be awarded to the top three callers in each division. After the contest, Stoltz will entertain the group with his turkey hunting stories and adventures.

On Sunday, Pastor Gary Cargill will start the day with a sunrise service. Other activities include a presentation by Milford Nature Center staff and a predator calling demonstration with Knight & Hale pro staffer Mick Bowman.

The cost of the event is $20 for JAKES members, $30 for non-JAKES members (which includes a JAKES membership), and $20 for adults. Attendees may tent camp onsite (bring your own tent) Saturday night or may commute both days. For an additional fee, participants can stay in a resident cabin, which includes bunk beds and shared bath. Boys and girls will have separate cabins. There are also a few RV hookups. The camp fee includes lunch and supper on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. Meals will be prepared by the White Memorial Camp kitchen staff. All youth will receive a commemorative tee shirt and win a prize in a drawing at the end of the event on Sunday.

The NWTF is a conservation organization dedicated to conserving wild turkeys, their habitat and our hunting heritage. JAKES, or Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship, is a program designed to get youth involved in conservation and hunting.

The NWTF Kansas State JAKES Camp was awarded the "Best State JAKES Event" in 2012, the "Best Special JAKES Event" in 2013 at the NWTF National Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.

For more information or to receive a registration form, contact Gib Rhodes at 620-437-2012.

10th Annual Northcentral Kansas Outdoor Youth Fair

OSBORNE – If your child enjoys all things “outdoorsy,” chances are he or she will have a blast at the upcoming 10th Annual Northcentral Kansas Outdoor Youth Fair in Osborne. This one-day, fun-filled event will take place Sept. 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is open to youth ages 17 and younger (all those 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult).

Activities include archery, wingshooting, flyfishing, canoeing, dog handling, trapping and many other outdoor activities.

Youth must be registered by 11 a.m. the day of the event to be provided lunch and an opportunity to win door prizes that include a lifetime hunting license, hunting and fishing trips, and a weekend at an area lake cabin.

Archery hunters 14 and older are invited to bring in their bows for tune-ups.

All equipment and supplies are provided at no charge.

The Northcentral Kansas Outdoor Youth Fair is made possible by the Osborne County Pheasants Forever Chapter, Osborne Gun Club, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, Nex-Tech, and the Keith Hahn Memorial.

For more information, contact Cleo Hahn at (785) 346-4541, John Cockerham at (785) 346-6527, or Chris Lecuyer at (785) 218-7818.

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KDWPT Receives $2.7 Million Grant For Public Access on Private Lands

PRATT – On August 17, 2015, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded $20 million in grants to 15 states to improve and increase wildlife habitat and public access for recreational opportunities on privately-owned and operated farm, ranch and forest lands. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) received a $2.7 million grant, the largest amount awarded to the 15 states. The grant is funded under the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentives Program (VPA-HIP), which is administered by the USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS).  

According to Jake George, KDWPT Private Land Programs Coordinator, the funds will be used over a three-year period to lease private land for hunting and fishing access and to help landowners improve habitat on those properties. Program promotion and outreach will occur this fall, with initial enrollment beginning late-spring to early-summer of 2016.

“We were very pleased to once again be awarded VPA-HIP grant funding,” George said. “Currently, KDWPT’s Walk-in Hunting Access and FISH programs have more than 1 million acres of enrolled properties and agreements with nearly 2,300 Kansas landowners, providing numerous public hunting and fishing opportunities across the state. This additional funding will allow for further expansion and improvement of the already successful access and habitat management programs offered to Kansas landowners through KDWPT.”

With respect to hunting, the focus for the funds will be on enrolling new or recently enrolled Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) properties. Participating landowners must be willing to allow public hunting access on the property for the duration of the CRP contract and enroll in wildlife-friendly conservation practices. Landowners are encouraged to enroll or re-enroll their properties in CRP between the continuous signup and the general CRP signup, which begins Dec. 1, 2015. KDWPT expects to add an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 new acres of quality access properties over the next three years.

KDWPT will also use the funds to improve fishing and paddle sports access, enrolling prime stream reaches, as well as quality privately-owned impoundments. Public access to these streams would provide a multitude of angling opportunities and open up recreational paddle sports access, which is limited in the state because most of the 10,000 miles of streams and rivers in Kansas are privately owned.

“This project with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism shows how good partnerships and land management will lead to sustainable recreational and economic opportunities for years to come. Connecting outdoor recreation to private lands conservation is good for wildlife, people, and rural economies,” said Eric B. Banks, state conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

For more information on VPA-HIP and other FSA programs, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/vpa.

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Outlook Promising for Duck Hunters This Season

PRATT – According the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) 2015 Trends in Duck Breeding Populations survey, overall duck numbers remain strong as we enter the 2015-2016 hunting seasons. The USFWS stated that total populations were estimated at 49.5 million breeding ducks in the traditional survey area, which is 43 percent above the 1955-2014 long-term average and the highest count on record. Last year's estimate was 49.2 million birds.

According to the report, current species estimates are as follows:

• Blue-winged teal: 8.5 million, 73 percent above the long-term average.
• Green-winged teal: 4.1 million, 98 percent above the long-term average.
• Northern shoveler: 4.4 million, 75 percent above the long-term average.
• Northern pintail: 3.0 million, 24 percent below the long-term average.
• Mallard: 11.6 million, 51 percent above the long-term average.
• Gadwall: 3.8 million, 100 percent above the long-term average.
• American wigeon: 3.0 million, 17 percent above the long-term average.
• Redhead: 1.2 million, 71 percent above the long-term average.
• Canvasback: 0.76 million, 30 percent above the long-term average.
• Scaup: 4.4 million, 13 percent below the long-term average.

Waterfowl hunting seasons in Kansas will begin with the teal season in the Low Plains Zones Sept. 12-27, followed by the High Plains Zone Sept. 19-27, 2015. Regular duck and goose seasons will be approved by the Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission at the public hearing portion of its August 20 meeting, which will be held at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 592 NE K-156 Highway, Great Bend. The public hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m.Waterfowl hunters are required to possess a Kansas HIP permit, state waterfowl permit, federal waterfowl stamp, and Kansas hunting license, unless exempt.

For more information on Kansas waterfowl seasons, visit ksoutdoors.com.

To view a complete version of the data, and get a species-by-species breakdown, visit www.fws.gov/birds/news/150702trend.php, orwww.ducks.org/DuckNumbers.

More Than 500 Special Hunts Available By Draw

Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s (KDWPT) Special Hunts Program is just that: a program that provides lucky hunters with special hunting experiences. The program offers hunting opportunities with limited access to public and private land, providing the potential for higher quality hunts and greater harvest rates. Interested hunters must apply online. The application period for First Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in September and October) closes Aug. 10, 2015. The application period for Second Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in November, December, January and February) closes Sept. 28, 2015.

There is no fee to participate in a Special Hunt, and the application process is open to residents and nonresidents. During the online application process, hunters will select hunts by species, date and category, including Open Hunt, Youth Hunt, or Mentored Hunt. All applicants are eligible to apply for Open Hunts, regardless of age or hunting experience. Youth Hunts require parties to include at least one youth 18 or younger, accompanied by an adult 21 or older who may not hunt. And Mentored Hunts are open to both youth and novice hunters supervised by a mentor 21 or older who may also hunt. There are more than 500 individual hunting opportunities available for the 2015-2016 hunting seasons.

Applicants will be entered into a random computer drawing conducted within one week of the application deadline. Successful applicants will be emailed their hunt permit, as well as any necessary maps and other pertinent information. Hunters are responsible for purchasing any licenses and permits required by law.

This year’s special hunts provide access to public and private lands that are not open to public hunting.  The hunts will occur on 27 different wildlife areas, seven state parks, 11 private land parcels, one national wildlife refuge, two U.S. Army Corps of Engineers areas and three city/county owned properties. Hunts are divided by species, weapon and hunt type. Most of the hunts are for deer and upland game, but opportunities are also available for waterfowl, doves, turkey and furbearers. There are 317 Open Hunts, 121 Mentor Hunts, 71 Youth Hunts, and two deer hunts for individuals with disabilities.

For more information on the Special Hunts Program, visit ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting/Special Hunts Information.”

Donate to Fund Disabled Veteran Hunt and Fish Licenses

PRATT – To show appreciation for the service and sacrifice of our disabled veterans, the Kansas Legislature annually appropriates a limited amount of funding to provide them free hunting and fishing licenses. Any Kansas resident who is a military veteran with at least 30 percent disability qualifies, and application for the licenses must be made each year. However, if the number of qualified applicants exceeds the amount appropriated, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) must cease issuing the licenses or rely on a pool of donations to fund them. Anyone purchasing a hunting or fishing license online is given the option through a check box to make a donation to fund these licenses.

The appropriation for Fiscal Year 2015 ran out in May and donations have been exhausted, so KDWPT has applications for licenses that cannot be issued. The appropriation is expected to be in the FY2016 budget, but those funds won’t be available until July 1 and may be insufficient to fund all the applications that could arrive during the coming fiscal year.

It’s difficult to predict demand for these licenses and permits and when funding runs out, the only recourse is to use donations. Help ensure our disabled veterans enjoy the Kansas outdoors by donating when you purchase licenses online. Call 620-672-5911 for more information.

Two Kansas Hunter Education Instructors Make Hall of Fame

PRATT – The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is proud to announce two of the Department’s very own hunter education instructors have been inducted into the International Hunter Education Association’s (IHEA-USA) Hall of Fame. Ray Fischer and Dennis Vincent were inducted at the IHEA-USA’s annual conference May 18-21, 2015 in Des Moines, IA. Fischer, a veteran instructor of 20 years, received the Volunteer Hunter Education Hall of Fame Award, and Vincent, a veteran instructor of 25 years, received the Professional Hunter Education Hall of Fame Award.

Fischer became involved with the Kansas Hunter Education program in 1995 serving as an instructor. Just two short years later, he was named an area coordinator. To date, he has served in several capacities, including serving on the program’s advisory committee for the past seven years.

“Fischer makes learning a fun and rewarding adventure for his students,” said nominator and Kansas Hunter Education coordinator, Kent Barrett. “As busy as he is with family, work and other activities, he always finds time to volunteer.”

Vincent, named the 2014 Kansas Hunter Education Instructor of the Year, is also a committed member of the program.

“Dennis is a down-to-earth spokesman for hunting and shooting,” Barrett said of Vincent. “He is able to communicate with everyone from the politician in the statehouse, to the hunting veteran with 30 years of field experience, to the apprehensive mother watching her 12-year-old son shoot a shotgun for the first time.”

IHEA-USA is the professional hunter education association affiliated with the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and the 50 state fish and hunter education programs. These programs throughout the US utilize 55,000 instructors, many of whom are volunteers, who teach hunting and shooting safety, as well as hunter ethics and responsibilities.

Through the Hall of Fame program, IHEA-USA annually recognizes professionals and volunteers who go "above and beyond" the call of duty to bring hunter safety education to students and instructors in their states; assist IHEA-USA in a manner that exceeds a general effort; and benefit hunter safety education nationally, including involvement within the community as well as with conservation partners and the hunting and shooting sports industries at the state and national levels. 

For more information on the IHEA Hall of Fame, visit www.ihea.com.

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Enroll Land in Walk-in Hunting Access Program Through July 15

Landowners interested in sharing the joys of hunting with others, and receiving additional income, are encouraged to enroll in the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program. Enrollment for the fall season is currently open and will close July 15. Land enrolled inWIHA still remains in private ownership and payment rates are often negotiable based on the number of acres, quality of habitat, and length of the lease access period. Landowners interested in enrolling can learn more by visiting ksoutdoors.com, or by calling (620) 672-5911.

Land used for the WIHA program is typically Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres, but land with similar qualities and hunting opportunities, such as native rangeland, weedy wheat stubble, milo stubble, riparian areas, and wetland areas are also considered for enrollment.

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Legislative News

The Great Seal of the State of Kansas (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

2015 Bills

SB46 -- This bill would require domesticated deer that enter a premises alive or leave a premises alive or dead for any purpose, other than for direct movement to a licensed or registered slaughter facility in Kansas, have official identification, as prescribed by rules and regulations of the animal health commissioner. The bill passed out of the Senate Committee on Agriculture.

SB50 -- This bill would amend K.S.A. 79-1439, which deals with property tax valuation classification of bed and breakfast properties. The proposed amendment would allow outbuildings or adjacent properties to be included as long as the total number of bedrooms does not exceed five. This bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation.

SB97 -- This bill would amend K.S.A. 32-1301 which regulates contact with dangerous animals. The amendment would allow clouded leopards and certain dangerous animals weighing 25 pounds or less full physical contact with members of the public and incidental contact with the public for animals weighing 40 pounds or less.This bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and has a hearing scheduled on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 8:30 a.m., RM 159-S.

SB112 -- This bill amends K.S.A 32-1049, relating to violations of wildlife, parks and tourism laws to clarify that county attorneys can file charges without a written citation. The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary.

SB113 -- This bill amends K.S.A. 32-1001, relating to  KDWPT licenses, permits, stamps, specifying that only physical licenses, permits or stamps shall be surrendered under judges' orders of forfeiture or suspension. This amendment is proposed to prepare for the advent of electronic licensing. The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary.

SB120 -- This bill would amend K.S.A. 32-833, relating to land purchases by KDWPT, to exempt lands purchased with Natural Resource Damage Restoration Funds from required legislative approval. The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Natural Resources.

HB2029 -- This is the companion bill of SB46 regarding identification of domesticated deer. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources and had a hearing on Jan. 27.

HB2116 -- This bill would designate the channel catfish as the official fish of the state of Kansas. The department supports this bill. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

HB2117 -- This will would require anyone born on or after January 1, 1995 to complete an approved boater safety education course before operating a motorboat or sailboat on Kansas waters. The current law only requires boater safety education of boaters younger than 21. The department supports this bill. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

HB2168 -- This is the House companion bill for SB50, which would allow outbuildings or adjacent properties to be classified as a bed and breakfast for tax valuation purposes. This bill was referred to the House Committee on Taxation.

House Concurrent Resolution No. 5008 -- This resolution would amend the state constitution to guarantee Kansas residents the right to hunt, fish and trap wildlife. If approved by two-thirds of the Senate and House, the proposed amendment would be voted on in a November general election.

PHEASANTS FOREVER, QUAIL FOREVER STATE CONVENTION MARCH 13-14

Two-day event for those interested in enhancing wildlife habitat in Kansas 

WICHITA – Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever will host thefifth annual State Convention March 13 and 14 at the Wichita Marriot, 9100 E Corporate Hills Dr. The two-day event will kick off with the “Partners in Conservation Reception” starting at 7:30 p.m., followed by the main event, Saturday, March 14. Convention activities will include discussions from conservation leaders and breakout sessions based on three key topics—habitat, education & outreach, and chapters.

Speakers include Howard Vincent, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever President and CEO; Theresa Vail, 2013 Miss Kansas, representative of Bass Pro Shops, and host of “Limitless” on the Outdoor Channel; and Richard McCabe, executive vice president of the Wildlife Management Institute, successful wildlife author, and son of Aldo Leopold’s first graduate student. Additionally, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will report on the status of pheasants and quail in the state.

Afternoon breakout sessions following the morning speakers include a cover crop roundtable with leading agency professionals and farmers, conducting wing-shooting clinics, how to be a successful chapter, and more.

"Through the Kansas State Convention, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever provide wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, landowners, youth educators, and habitat gurus a chance to get together and share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors,” explained Marc Glades, South Region field manager for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “Our chapter leaders, partners, staff, and guests are excited to be guiding this inspiring, information-filled, and interactive weekend that will refresh your wildlife conservation ethic.”

Register between Jan. 27 and Feb. 12 and earn a chance at a $250 Cabela’s gift card. Registration information can be found at http://www.kansaspfqf.org/2015-convention. Hotel rooms are available at a discounted rate of $99 by calling (316) 651-0333. Offer expires Feb. 27.