KDWPT OFFERS CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ONLINE

Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine, videos, early license sales among many offerings
PRATT — Looking for the perfect gift for the outdoorsman or woman in your family? The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is the place to start. The agency offers great gifts for hunters, anglers, park users, and other outdoor enthusiasts — or friends and families looking for gift ideas — and makes “outdoor” shopping an online experience.

License bargain sales begin Dec. 15, when all 2012 KDWP licenses, permits, and other issues go on sale and are valid for the remainder of 2010 and all of 2012, adding more than two weeks to their value. This includes hunting, fishing, and park licenses and permits. Licenses and permits can be purchased online, as well.

One of the best bargains is a resident multi-year youth hunting and/or fishing license, which provides convenience and savings for young hunters and anglers. The youth licenses are available for resident youth age 16 through 20. After purchasing the multi-year license, no hunting or fishing license will have to be purchased until the person turns age 21. The one-time purchase, multi-year youth fishing or hunting license is $40. A one-time purchase multi-year youth fishing/hunting combination license is $70.

A perennial favorite is Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine. Each issue is packed with the latest information on fishing, hunting, state parks, and wildlife watching, all highlighted by spectacular color photographs. And the January/February photo issue features some of the finest wildlife photography in nation. Subscriptions may be purchased at KDWPT offices or online at www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. Simply click "Other Services" then "Publications" then "Magazine.”

Another popular shopping spot is the KDWPT Outdoor Store. At the KDWPT website, click "Service" then "Outdoor Store.” This will take the shopper to a PDF order form. Using this form, shoppers can choose from a selection of 30 wildlife books and 10 VHS videos, including Birds In Your Backyard, The Channel Catfish Story, Deer In Kansas, Do Your Part, Kansas Waterfowl: the Puddle Ducks, Pheasants In Cropland, Shorebirds Of Kansas, The Wild Turkey Story, Wingshooting Basics, and Upland Bird Hunters Guide. DVD offerings include Better Birdwatching In Kansas & Nebraska, Birds In Your Backyard, Kansas Waterfowl: the Puddle Ducks, Outdoor Kansas Wonders, and Shorebirds Of Kansas. In addition, the Outdoor Store offers T-shirts, rain jackets, hats, and other miscellaneous items.

Other great gift ideas can be found on TravelKS.com, including the 156-page, hard-bound book,My Kansas, a photographic journey of Kansas. And you can subscribe to KANSAS! magazine, a quarterly, full-color publication that features the amazing attractions that make Kansas a great place to live.

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YOUTH PHEASANT AND QUAIL SEASON NOV. 5-6

Oct. 20, 2011

Youth pheasant and quail season Nov. 5-6; regular season opens Nov. 12

PRATT — Do you know a kid who has never been quail or pheasant hunting but might really like the opportunity? Whether it’s a niece or nephew, son or daughter, or just a young friend, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT) asks you to make a date with a youngster for Nov. 5-6 — the Kansas youth pheasant and quail season. The season is a chance to honor the hunting tradition and “Pass It On” to youth, and many adult hunters also see this as time to stretch their legs, scout fields, and work dogs. But youth are the focus.


During these two days, youth 16 and younger may hunt under the supervision of an adult 18 or older, but the adult may not hunt. It’s a great time to get kids out before the birds are stirred up, improving the opportunity of bagging game in uncrowded conditions. The daily bag limits during this season are two rooster pheasants and four quail (half the regular season limit).


For those who don’t have access to private land to hunt, KDWPT maintains wildlife areas and more than one million acres of Walk-In Hunting Access lands throughout the state. For more information on these areas, go the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.ks.us, and click “Hunting/Where to Hunt in Kansas.” Explore public wildlife areas throughout the state and download the 2011 Kansas Hunting Atlas, also available in printed form at most license vendors. For information on where the best bird hunting may be found, click on “Hunting/Upland Birds” and go the Upland Bird Regional Forecast.


So there’s no excuse; take a kid pheasant and quail hunting Nov. 5 and 6, and enjoy yourself. If you’re an avid upland bird hunter, you may be back the following Saturday, Nov. 12, when resident and nonresident hunters hit the field for the opening of the regular pheasant and quail seasons, which run through Jan. 31, 2012. Prairie chicken season opens the following Saturday, Nov. 19. This season runs through Jan. 31, 2012, in the Northwest (north of I-70 and west of U.S. 281) and East (all Kansas east of U.S. 281) units. In the Southwest Unit (south of I-70 and west of U.S. 281), prairie chicken season runs Nov. 19 through Dec. 31.


The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) reminds all hunters to avoid standing crops during upland game bird seasons. Although most milo is expected to be harvested before the seasons open this year, some milo and other crops may not, and most farmers do not want these unharvested fields disturbed. Permission is required to hunt private land, whether it is posted or not.


During the regular seasons, the daily bag limit on pheasants is four roosters, and the daily bag on quail is eight birds of either sex. The daily bag limit on prairie chicken in the East and Northwest units is two, and the daily bag in the Southwest Unit is one. The possession limit on all three species is four times the daily bag limit.


A valid Kansas hunting license is required of all residents ages 16 through 64. Nonresidents must purchase a $72.50 nonresident hunting license, except that those nonresidents younger than 16 may purchase a youth nonresident license for $37.50. Anyone born on or after July 1, 1957, must have completed a certified hunter education course, except that youth 15 and younger may hunt under direct adult supervision without hunter education certification. Youth 12 through 15 may hunt without adult supervision (during the regular season only) if they have completed a certified hunter education course. Anyone 16 or older may purchase a one-time deferral of hunter education, called an “apprentice hunting license,” for the same price as a regular hunting license. This license is valid only through the calendar year in which it is purchased, and the holder must be under the direct supervision of a licensed adult 18 or older. A hunting license and hunter education are not required while hunting one’s own land.


For complete hunting regulation information, consult the2011 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary, available wherever licenses are sold or online at the KDWP website under “Hunting/Hunting Regulations.”


“If you were fortunate enough to have been introduced to hunting at an early age, you know the magic,” says KDWPT Information Production Section chief Mike Miller. “It rests in your memories forever, and it drives a basic desire to experience the outdoors each fall. Hunting is a valued natural heritage, but it’s one that must be passed on from one generation to the next. Hunter numbers are decreasing, and younger generations are in danger of missing these treasured experiences. And fewer hunters reduces the financial, social, and political support needed for effective wildlife management. We hope everyone 18 or older who likes to hunt will take a youngster hunting this fall.”

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COUNCIL GROVE YOUTH SHOOTING CLINIC SEPT. 24

Sept. 8, 2011
Event designed to encourage youth hunters and shooters; registration deadline Sept. 16
COUNCIL GROVE — Council Grove area youth are invited to attend a free shotgun, pellet rifle, and archery shooting and safety clinic on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Council Grove Reservoir. Sponsored by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), the Flint Hills Chapter of Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation (QUWF), and Morris County hunter education instructors, this special event will provide participants with the opportunity to enhance firearm and archery shooting and safety skills. Controlled live fire instruction will teach safe, responsible, and fun shooting techniques.

Participants will be provided safety and shooting instruction by certified firearm and archery skills instructors. All gear and supplies, including shotguns, pellet rifles, shells, bows, arrows, targets, and eye and ear protection will be provided by KDWPT’s “Pass It On” and Hunter Education programs. Teaching methods almost guarantee that students will break shotgun targets by the end of the session.

Anyone age 11 through 16 may participate. Participants are required to pre-register for the event by Sept. 16. 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 COE-managed area between Marina Cove and Neosho Park, approximately 1/4 mile west of the COE office at the west end of the dam. Check-in will be run from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m., and QUWF will provide a free lunch during check-in. Instruction will begin at 12:30 p.m. and end at 4 p.m.

KDWP’s “Pass It On” Program is designed to increase the number of Kansans who hunt. Those interested are reminded to pre-register before Sept. 16. To register or learn more about this event, phone Brent Konen, Council Grove Wildlife Area manager, at 620-767-5900.

Hunting, Fishing, and Camping

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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.

HELP YOUR FAVORITE STATE PARK WIN $$$ IN THE “AMERICA IS YOUR PARK” CAMPAIGN

Image via Wikipedia Coca-Cola project to present $500,000 to park voted best in nation
TOPEKA — Every summer, families from around the nation visit Kansas state parks to camp, boat, fish, and just have a great time together. Parks are important for an active, healthy lifestyle. To encourage people to visit parks and also help their favorite park receive badly needed additional funding, Coca-Cola is sponsoring the second annual America Is Your Park campaign.
Through Sept. 6, Kansas state park enthusiasts have the chance to support their favorite state park with just the click of a button. Visit LivePositively.com to vote for your favorite park, and the park with the most votes wins the title of “America’s Favorite Park,” along with a $100,000 recreation grant from the Coca-Cola Live Positively initiative. The second-place park wins a $50,000 grant, and the third-place park gets a $25,000 grant. Coca-Cola is providing these recreation grants to parks around the country to help restore, rebuild, or enhance activity areas in the park
How to Vote
From now through Sept. 6, visit LivePositively.com to vote for your chosen park to win big. Show your support by voting in the following ways:

• vote online at LivePositively.com, or click on the Coca-Cola logo on the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us to visit the Live Positively site;
• upload photos from your favorite park to LivePositively.com;
• check in through Facebook Places from your favorite park; and
• upload videos of activities in your favorite park to LivePositively.com (starting Aug. 10).

You can also visit LivePositively.com to download and share videos featuring fitness icon Jake Steinfeld, founder of “Body By Jake,” and popular TV and radio host Ryan Seacrest.
Spreading the Word
LivePositively.com also has digital toolkit materials you can use to get your community involved, including the following:

• sample Facebook and Twitter posts;
• an article that you can adapt and place in your community newspaper, blogs and/or newsletters ; and
• downloadable poster to print and hang in your favorite park to encourage people to vote.

Kansas state parks are great places for families to be active and have fun this summer. So get out and bike, hike, swim, fish, or play games – just get active in the park!

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FIRST SPECIAL HUNTS APPLICATION DEADLINE NEAR

Image via Wikipedia KDWP offers youth, novice hunts of a lifetime; first application deadline Aug. 15
PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) Special Hunts Program offers a variety of limited hunts, many designed to introduce youth and novices to hunting in an uncrowded setting with good opportunity for success. Three types of hunts are offered: youth hunts, mentor hunts, and open hunts.
New this year is that only youth will be able to apply for youth hunts. KDWPT will no longer consider an application from an applicant over the age restriction for a youth hunt. Mentors may apply for youth/mentor hunts. Open hunts are open to anyone, and some non-draw special hunts are also offered.
Also new this year is that applicants for draw hunts are required to choose the dates they want for special hunts. In the past, the choice of “Any” was offered, but this is no longer an option. Hunters must select the hunt dates that are offered.
The first application deadline — for special hunts in September and October — is midnight Aug. 14. A random drawing for these hunts will occur the week of Aug. 15, with email notification to successful applicants. The permit and map will be included with this email notification.
The application period for November, December, and January hunts will begin Sept. 1 and run through midnight Sept. 30, with the draw occurring the week of Oct. 3. Successful applicants for these hunts will also receive email notification with a permit and map.
Each special hunt targets specific game species, including doves, upland game, waterfowl, and deer. Some take place during the special youth/disabled deer season Sept. 10-18, some during the youth upland game season Nov. 5-6, and others during special youth waterfowl seasons, which have yet to be set. Still others occur during regular hunting seasons. Special hunts will be conducted in all regions of the state on both public and private land.
Youth hunts are generally open to hunters 15 or younger who must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older, who may not hunt. Mentor hunts are open to youth 17 or younger or anyone who hasn’t hunted in the last three years, and each must be accompanied by a licensed adult mentor. Mentors may participate in mentor hunts. Requirements for each special hunt are outlined in the hunt narratives on the website.
Many veteran hunters find new satisfaction in serving as mentors, introducing a relative, friend, or neighbor to the wonder of the hunt in a wildlife-rich setting. Parents or grandparents may take children or grandchildren who have never hunted but are now showing an interest, but mentors and novices do not have to be related.
Hunter education is not required for youth 15 and younger accompanied by an adult 18 or older. However, persons 16 and older must have a hunting license and hunter education certification. Those 16 and older who do not have hunter education may still participate by obtaining a one-time apprentice hunting license, which exempts them from the hunter education requirement through the calendar year in which it is purchased.
For more detailed information or to apply, go online to www.kdwpt.state.ks.us and click "Hunting/Special Hunts Information." Those who do not have computer access may apply by telephone at 620-672-0791.

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SURVEY SUGGESTS NESTING PHEASANT NUMBERS STABLE

Image via Wikipedia Western Kansas has one of strongest breeding populations in history; breeding season drought may offset good news
PRATT — Following the outstanding 2010-2011 pheasant season, spring surveys revealed good pheasant populations going into the 2011 nesting season. From April 25-May 15, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) conducted its annual spring survey of pheasants. As the mating season approaches, roosters increase crowing, and KDWP staff drive established routes to listen for the birds. Pheasant routes are set up along 20-mile transects, with at least 2 miles between each of 11 stops. At stops, observers listen for two minutes and count all the audible two-note crows heard from male pheasants. The average number of crows per stop across each management region is calculated and used to assess how population numbers have changed from previous years.
Observers start listening at the first stop along each route beginning 45 minutes before sunrise and progressing along the route until all 11 stops have been surveyed. Noise interference is taken into consideration, and data is censored if the observer feels noise is inhibiting their ability to count crows. Data from this survey, combined with the summer brood count survey in August and a rural mail carrier survey, helps determine the outlook for the fall pheasant hunting season.
All 62 established routes were surveyed this year, and an average of 20.5 crows were counted per station, an apparent increase of 17 percent from 2010, which is not considered statistically different.
The spring pheasant survey results can represent two important life stages for pheasant populations in Kansas. Changes in spring survey indices can reflect over-winter survival for a population. Often, winter can be a bottleneck for some upland game populations. However, in western Kansas, winters are often much more mild than more northern latitudes, and pheasant survival is usually high throughout much of the state. When this is the case, spring surveys can also reflect the reproductive success of the previous breeding season.
In the 2010 breeding season, pheasant productivity was high across most of the state, which carried over to the 2011 Pheasant Crow Count because of a fairly mild winter for Kansas’ best pheasant range. The southcentral and northeastern parts of the state showed declines, likely due to poor productivity last summer as a result of less than ideal weather conditions in those areas. Northeast Kansas has also had some severe winters recently, which has suppressed populations.
Overall, western Kansas has one of the strongest pheasant breeding populations in its history this year, which is reflected by the extremely high crow counts for 2011. However, extreme drought has created unfavorable breeding season conditions across most of southwestern and southcentral Kansas. Thus, the 2011 fall pheasant population will likely be down substantially from last fall in those areas. Conditions appear to have been much more favorable for productivity in other regions of the state, but it is still too early to make accurate predictions about the fall population in those areas.
Across Kansas’ pheasant range, those areas with good interspersion of grassland and cropland showed the highest densities of pheasants again this spring. Many of the hens in these regions use green wheat for nesting, and the condition of the wheat crop usually has a strong influence on pheasant productivity. The wheat crop was generally poor across western Kansas this year, which meant less vertical structure for nest concealment and an early harvest date. The early harvest likely increased direct mortality of nests and young from farm equipment. Additionally, the ongoing drought in that region will also negatively affect chick survival because dry conditions reduce the availability of insects, which are the primary food source for those developing young.
KDWPT’s late summer brood surveys in July and August will provide better projections of fall populations.

TEXAS MAN SENTENCED TO JAIL IN CONNECTION WITH KANSAS DEER HUNTING AND GUIDING OPERATION

Receives 41 months in federal prison; largest case in Kansas history
WICHITA — A Texas man was sentenced June 21 in a Wichita federal court on felony charges of conspiracy, wildlife trafficking, and obstruction of justice related to the illegal sale of guided deer hunts in southern Kansas, announced Barry Grissom, U.S. attorney for the District of Kansas, and Ignacia S. Moreno, assistant attorney general for the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division.

James Bobby Butler, Jr., 42, of Martinsville, Tex., was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison. Butler pleaded guilty in March 2010 to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, one Lacey Act interstate trafficking count, and one count of obstruction of justice. His brother, Marlin Jackson Butler, 36, also of Martinsville, pleaded guilty in March 2011 to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and one Lacey Act count. Marlin Butler is scheduled to be sentenced on June 24, 2011.

“Illegal wildlife trafficking is a threat to the natural resources of Kansas," Grissom said. "Our goal is to preserve and protect wildlife for everyone to enjoy, including hunters who abide by the law."

"Thanks to outstanding cooperation between federal and state law enforcement agents and prosecutors, we put an end to a criminal conspiracy that took valuable and limited wildlife resources," Moreno added. "This prosecution sends a message to everyone in Kansas and elsewhere that there will be serious consequences for those who seek to profit by violating state and federal wildlife laws, especially at the expense of those who hunt and guide lawfully."

The Lacey Act is a federal law that makes it illegal to knowingly transport or sell in interstate commerce any wildlife taken or possessed in violation of state law or regulation. According to court documents filed in the case, James and Marlin Butler conspired together to knowingly transport and sell in interstate commerce deer that had been hunted in violation of Kansas state law.

In particular, the brothers operated a guiding service and hunting camp near Coldwater at which they sold guiding services to out-of-state hunters for the purpose of illegally hunting and killing white-tailed deer and mule deer. Hunters guided by the Butler brothers killed deer in excess of annual bag limits, hunted deer without permits or with permits for the wrong deer management unit, killed deer using illegal equipment, and hunted using prohibited methods such as spotlighting. The guided hunts were sold for between $2,500 and $5,500 and in several instances resulted in the killing of trophy-sized buck deer.

In addition to selling guiding services, the brothers also arranged for transport of the deer, in particular the antlers and capes, from Kansas to Texas and Louisiana.

James Butler also pleaded guilty to instructing another person to conceal or destroy evidence during the investigation.

“This is the largest case in the history of wildlife law enforcement in Kansas," said Steve Oberholtzer, special agent in charge of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) Mountain-Prairie Region. "Trophy deer are an important resource for the state of Kansas from both wildlife and economic standpoints. Joint investigations such as this one demonstrate that the combined efforts of state and federal agencies and federal prosecutors result in prosecutions that hold those who violate the law accountable. We are grateful to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their assistance in this case and hope that it will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider exploiting our nation's wildlife for personal gain."

The case was investigated by the USFWS, KDWP, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and jointly prosecuted by District of Kansas U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom's office and the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division, Environmental Crimes Section.

SENTENCING IN KANSAS FELONY DEER POACHING OPERATION SET FOR JUNE 21 AND 24

Image via Wikipedia

Pair face prison sentencing, heavy fines, suspension of hunting privileges

WICHITA — On March 16, James Bobby Butler Jr. and Marlin Jackson Butler — both of Martinsville, Texas — pleaded guilty in federal court in Wichita to felony conspiracy and wildlife trafficking charges stemming from the illegal sale of guided deer hunts in southern Kansas. On Tuesday, June 21, James Bobby Butler, Jr., will be sentenced in the federal court at 10 a.m. At 1 p.m., Kansas U.S. attorney Barry Grissom will hold a press conference regarding the case at the Great Plains Nature Center, 29th and Woodlawn in Wichita.

Butler, Jr., 42, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, one substantive Lacey Act count, and one count of obstruction of justice. Marlin Butler, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and one Lacey Act count. Marlin Butler will be sentenced June 24. Charges for others involved in the case are still pending.

The Lacey Act is a federal law that makes it illegal to knowingly transport or sell in interstate commerce any wildlife taken or possessed in violation of state law or regulation. The maximum penalty for a felony violation of the conspiracy statute and the Lacey Act includes as many as five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the obstruction charge against James Butler includes as many as 20 years in prison and $250,000 fine. According to the plea agreements, the prosecution agreed to recommend sentences of 41 months in prison for James Butler and 27 months in prison for Marlin Butler, in addition to fines, restitution, and three years of supervised release during which time both Butler brothers would be prohibited from all hunting and guiding activity.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The case is being jointly prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas and Environmental Crimes Section of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.

For more information, phone the U.S. Attorney's Office at 316-269-6481.

STATE WILDLIFE GRANT PROCESS UNDER REVIEW

Guidelines focus on species in greatest need of conservation; public input deadline July 1
PRATT — The State Wildlife Grants (SWG) program has provided funding for wildlife conservation programs for more than 10 years. In Kansas, this has meant nearly $10 million for many kinds of projects designed to keep species off threatened and endangered lists. Notable projects funded through this program include the Prairie Window Project by Dyck Arboretum at Hesston, which helped landowners restore and maintain native prairies; the compilation of a substantial amount of new information on the status and distributions of sensitive species; and a project that assessed natural areas of northeast Kansas.

The use of these funds has been guided by the Kansas Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Plan (CWCP), entitled "A Future for Kansas Wildlife.” Found on the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us (Other Services/Kansas CWCP/Kansas CWCP), this plan was approved in 2005 as a requirement before Kansas could obtain and apply additional SWG funds. Now KDWP is in the process of revising this dynamic plan, with the revision scheduled for completion in 2013.

The first step in this process is a review of the basic native species list. This is the list of all vertebrate species as well as many invertebrate animals to be considered for potential changes on the Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) list. There are currently 316 species on this list, and this plan update will consider all needed changes — those to be added to the list, deleted from it, or name changes according to the latest information.

“A Future for Kansas Wildlife” on the KDWP website also includes Appendix II, which describes the process by which any native species will be evaluated for possible listing as a SGCN. Top ranked species on this list are given priority in projects funded through the SWG program. This an opportunity for the public to look over the native species list and recommend any needed changes. Find the list under “Kansas CWCP Updates and Revisions” under “Other Services,” as well as further instructions for this process.

July 1 is the deadline for recommending changes to the Native Species List. Then work will begin on re-evaluating the Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Use the contact portal on the website to submit any recommendations.

For more information, contact Ken Brunson at 620-672-0792 or email him atken.brunson@ksoutdoors.com .

WICHITA STATE TO OFFER HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR COURSE

Course designed to develop teaching skills prior to becoming a certified hunter education instructor
WICHITA — In the 2011 fall semester, Wichita State University will offer a course to train students in the knowledge and skills necessary to become certified as a volunteer Kansas Hunter Education Instructor through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). Students will learn about wildlife conservation, safe gun handling, and the role of hunting in conservation. Wildlife management, firearm safety, and other topics will also be covered.
The 2 credit-hour course is currently scheduled for 2:30 p.m. each Wednesday of the semester. In addition, a 4-hour session on Saturday, Oct. 15, at 9 a.m. is mandatory. This session will take place at Michael Murphy and Sons, 6400 SW Hunter Road just north of Augusta and will involve field work in live fire training and use of trail walks and other training aids in simulated hunting situations.
The course will focus heavily on developing instructor presentation skills using lecture, training aids, electronic media, and internet instruction.
“I’m excited about this course,” says Wayne Doyle, course instructor and former statewide hunter education coordinator for KDWP. “I think it has a lot of potential. I’ve been telling instructors for years that what they need to improve most is their presentation skills. This is important whether you’re a farmer, a businessman, or a teacher, but a lot of our guys have not had much training in this area. And there’s no one ‘right’ way. We want to teach them to use the tools best adapted to their personalities, whether it’s lecture, one-on-one instruction, or audio-visual tools. The point is, we want them to be more effective communicators.” 
No previous courses or experience is required for this course although some experience with hunting is recommended. To find a course description, go online to https://ssbprod.wichita.edu/pls/PROD/bwckschd.p_get_crse_unsec . Write down the course numbers, then phone 316-978-3055 for enrollment information.

23RD ANNUAL OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMP JUNE 5-10

Six-day camp teaches youngsters outdoor skills from fishing, swimming, and star-gazing to canoeing, archery, and wingshooting
JUNCTION CITY — The Kansas Wildlife Federation (KWF) and the K-State Cooperative Extension Service are sponsoring the 23rd Annual Outdoor Adventure Camp (OAC) June 5-10 at the Camp WaShunGa area of Rock Springs 4-H Center, near Junction City. Youngsters ages 10 through 12 are eligible to attend.

“This six-day summer camp is for kids who either enjoy the outdoors or want to learn more about it,” says KWF event organizer Tommie Berger. “If you are a Kansas youngster who will be in age group 10 through 12 this summer — or are a parent of one of these youngsters — and enjoy being outdoors, please consider this opportunity. It is open to all Kansas boys and girls. We even get a few youngsters from surrounding states. And we allow youngsters to come back as junior counselors once they turn 16.”

Participants will spend mornings exploring the grounds at Rock Springs with instructors, observing Kansas animals and plants close-up. Session subjects include insects, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, fish management, wildlife management, wetlands, birds, and stream ecology. Afternoons will be spent learning about birds of prey, skins and skulls, bats, streams, and more general topics, including ecology, wetlands, riparian areas, and watersheds. Instructors from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas State University, the Natural Resource Conservation Service, county conservation districts, the Riley County Fish and Game Association, 4-H clubs, and other organizations will be on hand.

“This camp is meant to be an outdoor experience just short of camping in a tent, so we’ll sleep in screened-in bunk houses that do not have air conditioning,” Berger explains. “But it’s not truly primitive; the swimming pool and dining hall are the main hubs of activity during free time.”

After dark, participants may prowl for owls, star-gaze, or watch bats hunt bugs. Evening swims will be followed by campfire stories and snacks. One evening will feature a friendly fishing competition.

Other activities include scavenger hunts; swimming and canoeing; fishing; rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader, archery, and pellet gun shooting; arts and crafts; and horseback riding. A trip to the Milford Nature Center and Fish Hatchery will occupy one day.

Participants should bring a swimsuit, sleeping gear, and clothes for a week. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a cap, a fishing pole, and a water bottle are also recommended. Food, instruction, and lodging are all included in the $250 price of the six-day camp. Some conservation groups and sportsman’s clubs offer Outdoor Adventure Camp scholarships. The Kansas Wildlife Federation and the Outdoor Writers of Kansas offer scholarships in cooperation with Kansas Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Space is limited to 50 youngsters, and the registration deadline is June 4.

“Youngsters and parents are required to sign a Code of Conduct form, which is basically an acknowledgement that everyone is aware of the camp rules and policies,” cautions Berger. “If poor behavior or homesickness lead to a child being sent home, there are no refunds, so please consider that before enrolling a youngster in OAC.”

For application, camp, or scholarship information, write Outdoor Adventure Camp, Theresa Berger, 406 S. New York Ave., Sylvan Grove, KS 67481; phone785-526-7466; or e-mail bergkwf@wtciweb.com. Checks should be made out to the Kansas Wildlife Federation.

TEN KANSAS DEER CONFIRMED POSITIVE IN CWD TESTS

Number of confirmed cases same as last year
PRATT— The number of positive cases of chronic wasting disease (CWD in Kansas appears to be stable for now. On March 2, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) announced that 10 deer from northwestern Kansas had tested positive for chronic wasting disease, the same number as last year although two of those deer were found in counties farther east than any previous confirmations. These were animals taken by hunters in the 2010 hunting seasons.

Six confirmed cases of CWD deer were taken by hunters in Decatur County and one each from Graham, Norton, Sherman, and Smith counties. The Norton, Sherman, and Smith cases were firsts for those counties. The cases included nine white-tailed and one mule deer. This season’s testing results brings the total number of confirmed CWD cases in Kansas to 40 since testing began in 1996. In total, 2,503 animals were tested for CWD for the 2010 deer seasons. Although most testing is finished for the year, KDWP will continue testing some vehicle-killed and sick or suspect-looking deer, as well as deer taken with depredation permits, through July 31. If U.S. Department of Agriculture funding is available, and new surveillance period will begin Aug. 1.

Annual testing is part of ongoing effort by KDWP to monitor the prevalence and spread of CWD. The fatal disease was first detected in a wild deer taken in Cheyenne County in 2005. Three infected deer were taken in Decatur County in 2007 and 10 tested positive in 2008, all in northwest Kansas.

CWD is a member of the group of diseases called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Other diseases in this group include scrapie in sheep and goats, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE or Mad Cow Disease) in cattle, and Cruetzfeldt-Jacob disease in people. CWD is a progressive, fatal disease that results in small holes developing in the brain, giving it a sponge-like appearance under the microscope. An animal may carry the disease without outward indication (only two of the 40 positive animals showed symptoms) but in the later stages, signs may include behavioral changes such as decreased interactions with other animals, listlessness, lowering of the head, weight loss, repetitive walking in set patterns, and a lack of response to humans. Anyone who discovers a sick or suspect deer should contact the nearest KDWP office.

“It must be noted that many symptoms of CWD are indicative of other diseases,” says KDWP wildlife disease coordinator Shane Hesting. “Thus, a sick deer may or may not be infected with CWD. CWD is a serious deer disease but is still a rare disease in Kansas. There is no vaccine or other biological method that prevents the spread of CWD. However, there is no evidence that CWD poses a risk to humans or livestock in the natural environment.”

Still, precautions should be taken. Hunters are advised not to eat meat from animals known to be infected, and common sense precautions are advised when field dressing and processing meat from animals taken in areas where CWD is found. More information on CWD can be found on KDWP’s website,www.kdwp.state.ks.us or at the Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance website,www.cwd-info.org.

Fishing Tips

Related articles

• Iowa elk test negative for chronic wasting disease (thegazette.com)
• Bob Hodge: Nothing good would come of deer farms (knoxnews.com)
• Iowa officials say they're required to eradicate free-roaming elk (thegazette.com)
• Three elk killed by DNR to prevent spread of disease (thegazette.com)

LOVEWELL STATE PARK FREE ENTRANCE DAYS MARCH 26-27

Open house featuring new facilities, cabin tours to highlight weekend
WEBBER — Lovewell State Park will hold Free Park Entrance Days on Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27. For these two days, vehicle permits are not required to enter the state park. However, park users are reminded that if they plan to camp overnight, a camping permit is still required and can be purchased at the park office or self-pay station

To enhance this special weekend, park staff will present an open house featuring the park’s new facilities and camping cabins, as well as information on budget issues, the campsite reservation system, and a question-and-answer time regarding park regulations. Two programs will begin at the Willow Group Shelter at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The programs will conclude with tours of the new Southwinds Camping Cabins, weather permitting.

In addition to the programs, the park office will be open both days from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for park permit sales prior to the switch to peak season pricing on April 1. Off-season Annual Vehicle permits are discounted $5 at $19.70; Second Annual Vehicle permits are discounted $2.50 at $12.20; Annual Camping permits are discounted $50 at $202.50; and the 14-Day Camping permits are discounted $15 at $87.50. Those purchasing annual and second vehicle permits must present vehicle registration.

For more information, phone Lovewell State Park at 785-753-4971.

FISHING PLACES

BROTHERS PLEAD GUILTY TO FELONIES IN KANSAS DEER HUNTING AND GUIDING OPERATION

Pair face prison sentences, heavy fines, suspension of hunting privileges
WICHITA — On March 16, James Bobby Butler Jr. and Marlin Jackson Butler pleaded guilty in federal court in Wichita to felony conspiracy and wildlife trafficking charges stemming from the illegal sale of guided deer hunts in southern Kansas, the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas announced.

James Bobby Butler Jr., 42, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, one substantive Lacey Act count, and one count of obstruction of justice. His brother, Marlin Jackson Butler, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and one Lacey Act count. Both men are from Martinsville, Texas.

The Lacey Act is a federal law that makes it illegal to knowingly transport or sell in interstate commerce any wildlife taken or possessed in violation of state law or regulation.

According to the May 2010 indictment in the case and the March 16 plea agreements, James and Marlin Butler conspired to knowingly transport and sell in interstate commerce deer that had been hunted in violation of Kansas state law. The brothers operated a guiding service and hunting camp near Coldwater where they sold guiding services to out-of-state hunters for the purpose of illegally hunting and killing white-tailed and mule deer. Hunters guided by the Butler brothers killed deer in excess of annual bag limits, hunted deer without permits or while using permits for the wrong deer management unit, killed deer using illegal equipment, and hunted using prohibited methods such as spotlighting.

The guided hunts were sold for between $2,500 and $5,500 and in several instances resulted in the killing of trophy-sized buck deer. In the plea agreements, the Butlers admitted knowingly selling guided hunts for the illegal taking of the 25 buck deer identified in the indictment, for which hunters paid them $77,500 in guiding fees plus tips. In addition to selling guiding services, the brothers also arranged for transport of the deer, in particular the antlers and capes, from Kansas to Texas and Louisiana.

James Butler also admitted in his plea agreement that he instructed another person to conceal or destroy evidence during the investigation.

The maximum penalty for a felony violation of the conspiracy statute and the Lacey Act includes as many as five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the obstruction charge against James Butler includes as many as 20 years in prison and $250,000 fine. According to the plea agreements filed, the prosecution agreed to recommend sentences of 41 months in prison for James Butler and 27 months in prison for Marlin Butler, in addition to fines, restitution, and three years of supervised release during which time both Butler brothers would be prohibited from all hunting and guiding activity. Sentencing hearings for both defendants are set for June 2, 2011.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The case is being jointly prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas and Environmental Crimes Section of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.

HUNTING INFORMATION

KANSAS GOVERNOR’S ONE-SHOT TURKEY HUNT APRIL 14-16

Annual event first for new Governor Brownback
EL DORADO — The 25th annual Kansas Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt will be held April 14-16 in El Dorado. Hunters from across Kansas and many states have committed to participate this year’s event, the first turkey hunt for new Kansas Governor Sam Brownback.

“I look forward to taking part in my first turkey hunt,” says Brownback. “And this event is a great way to promote not only our state’s natural resources but also economic growth in Kansas.”

Former Kansas Governor Mike Hayden, who established the event with former El Dorado Chamber of Commerce president Marv McCown in 1987, also will attend. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary Robin Jennison and seven youth from Kansas also will also take part, and music fans will welcome country star Bryan White, who will hunt and play a few tunes.

Activities this year include a Thursday get-acquainted social, the Big Tom Hog Roast social on Friday, and the Saturday One-Shot Banquet. These dinners will be held for the first time at the new Butler Community College Welcome Center in the Clifford Stone Room.

The hunt is directed by El Dorado Chamber CEO Becky Wolfe, with headquarters at 200 S. Main in El Dorado. For more information, phone Wolfe at 316-321-3835 or visit the One-Shot website, www.ksgovsturkeyhunt.com.

Missouri Public Lands Hunting Information

LATE-SEASON HUNTING: THE BEST IS YET TO COME

Excellent waterfowl, small game, upland game, more await winter hunters
PRATT — Upland bird and waterfowl seasons have been open for more than two months, but there’s still time for quality hunts. Quail, pheasant, prairie chicken (Northwest and East units), and fall turkey seasons are open through Jan. 31, and rabbit and squirrel seasons provide additional opportunities for the avid hunter.

Late-season hunting is a great time to go afield; hunting spots are uncrowded, and weather may cause birds to hold in heavier cover, making dogs a real asset. In most areas, crops have been cut, concentrating birds in draws and thick grass, such as CRP. Late-migrating geese and ducks, especially mallards, are often abundant where open water can be found. And as hunting pressure eases, private landowners are often more receptive to hunters looking for new places to pursue game.

Heavy pressure can make public hunting areas less desirable than private land in early seasons, but public areas may provide better hunting in late season. Wildlife management practices on public lands usually provide excellent cover and food supplies, making them good late-season options as hunting pressure decreases.

Hunters looking for a place to stay can rent one of more than 90 cabins at state parks and wildlife areas across the state. Most cabins are open year-round and provide a range of amenities, many with full bathrooms and kitchens. Click "Cabin Reservations" in the upper right-hand corner of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us, for more information.

A number of opportunities await hunters this winter. Those seasons still open or opening soon include the following:

• ducks High Plains Zone (west of U.S. 283) — Jan. 22-30;
• ducks Late Zone — Jan. 22-30;
• Canada geese (including Brant) — through Feb. 13;
• white-fronted geese — Feb. 5-13;
• light geese — through Feb. 13;
• Light Goose Conservation Order — Feb. 14-April 30;
• pheasant and quail — through Jan. 31;
• prairie chicken (Northwest and East units) — through Jan. 31;
• fall turkey — through Jan. 31;
• exotic dove (Eurasian collared and ringed turtle) — through Feb. 28;
• squirrel — through Feb. 28;
• rabbit — year-round;
• extended archery antlerless only whitetail deer (management Unit 19 only) — through Jan. 31;
• coyote — year-round;
• furbearer hunting and trapping — through Feb. 15; and
• beaver trapping — through March 31.

Sometimes the best things are saved for last. This winter, make it so with a late-season Kansas hunt. For detailed information, consult the Kansas Hunting & Furharvesting Regulations Summary, available at most license vendors, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks offices, or online atwww.kdwp.state.ks.us.

KDWP ANNOUNCES CHICKADEE CHECKOFF SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM APPLICATIONS

Small wildlife enhancement project application deadline Feb. 18
PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Chickadee Checkoff Program has funded hundreds of nongame species projects through the years. These range in scope from small species survey projects of $500 or less to efforts of $100,000 or more using matching federal funding sources such as the Endangered Species Act and the State Wildlife Grants Program.

This small grants program reserves $20,000 of annual contributions to the Chickadee Checkoff for small grant projects. As in the case for large projects as well, these small grant project proposals (for up to $5,000) must address elements in Kansas' Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Plan (CWCP), "A Future for Kansas Wildlife," or identified elements in endangered species recovery plans and prioritized issues for this year’s small grants funding, which include the following:

• refinement of bird and bat monitoring efforts, particularly related to wind power development and gray myotis bat populations in Kansas; and
• characterization of the micro-habitat of the Scott optioservus riffle beetle (an endangered species found only at Scott State Park in Scott County).

For information on the Chickadee Checkoff Program, go to the KDWP website,www.kdwp.state.ks.us, then click “Other Services/Wildlife Diversity/Chickadee Checkoff.” More information on the Kansas CWCP may be found by clicking “Other Services/Kansas CWCP” on the KDWP website.

Applications should be no longer than two pages and include project title, name of applicant and contact information, purpose of the project, and how the project relates to the stated priorities and “A Future for Kansas Wildlife.”

Proposals may be submitted online or emailed to Ken Brunson, wildlife diversity coordinator, at ken.brunson@ksoutdoors.com or phone Brunson at 620-672-0792. The deadline for submission is Feb. 18. Requests may be made to fund a portion or all of a proposed project.