National Parks to Allow Right-to-Carry

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), through the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, has announced the final amended version of its changes to rules on carrying of firearms in national parks and wildlife refuges. DOI's move will restore the rights of law-abiding gun owners who wish to transport and carry firearms for lawful purposes on most DOI lands, and will make federal law consistent with the state law in which these public lands are located. NRA led the effort to amend the existing policy regarding the carrying and transportation of firearms on these federal lands.

American Rivers Releases the Blue Trails Guide to Promote River Recreation and Conservation

(Washington, DC) – American Rivers today released the Blue Trails Guide, to help promote river recreation and conservation in local communities. Blue trails, the water equivalent to hiking trails, have the potential to stimulate local economies, encourage physical fitness, improve community pride, and make rivers and communities healthier. The Blue Trails Guide is designed to make the process for establishing a successful blue trail easier and more accessible.

The guide, launched today at the 2008 National Trails Symposium in Little Rock and available at www.BlueTrailsGuide.org and www.AmericanRivers.org, provides step-by-step instructions for developing a thriving blue trail. Because a healthy river is necessary for a successful blue trail, the guide includes tips and goals for river conservation. The guide also has practical advice on planning, building, and managing a blue trail for conservation as well as case studies from experienced practitioners across the country.

“The Blue Trails Guide is an excellent resource that will help communities protect and restore their rivers and landscapes through recreation,” said Jamie Mierau, Director of River Protection for American Rivers. Blue trails provide opportunities for economic renewal and growth through jobs and tourism. And, because they can result in healthier rivers, blue trails can increase property values, provide cost effective flood control, and reduce infrastructure costs.

Communities across the country are realizing the conservation benefits of river recreation. The process for developing a blue trail on the Rappahannock River near Fredericksburg, Virginia, for example, began shortly after the Embrey Dam removal in 2004. The initial intent was to offer historic paddling trips along 30-miles of the river. With broad support from the community, the water trail was designated. The excitement for this water trail helped build support for a critical 4,200 acre conservation easement along the river. With more than 1 million people living within 30 miles of the property, these lands faced unprecedented development pressures. The eased lands contain streamside buffers that provide natural protection for Fredericksburg’s water supply and allow people to enjoy the river without fear of encroaching development.

Blue trails also promote healthy living by providing a fun, safe, and inexpensive avenue for regular exercise. And blue trails promote community pride by preserving historic places, connecting us to our heritage, and creating a common ground for social interaction with family and neighbors.

The Blue Trails Guide is designed for anyone interested in creating a blue trail including, but not limited to, recreational enthusiasts, planners, conservation organizations, and local and state governments. Visit www.BlueTrailsGuide.org to learn more.

SOUTHERN UTAH TO HOST LEGENDARY FREERIDE MOUNTAIN BIKING EVENT Red Bull Rampage: The Evolution Returns October 2-5th

Santa Monica, CA - September 29, 2008 - Red Bull Rampage, the premier freeride mountain biking competition, held annually from 2001 to 2004, is blasting back onto the scene in 2008, bigger and badder than ever before. From October 2-5, Red Bull Rampage: The Evolution will draw the greatest riders in the world to a new venue just outside Virgin, Utah, offering the most challenging terrain mountain bike competition has ever seen.

“It is a tremendous opportunity to have a world class action sports event like the Red Bull Rampage in Utah and help showcase the State's natural beauty to the world,” says Jeff Robbins, President and CEO of the Utah Sports Commission.

MAKING HISTORY
As the new millennium arrived in 2000, a new breed of riders were pushing the frontiers of mountain biking, veering off the established groomed trails to forge first descents down unchartered mountains, similar to backcountry freeskiers. These riders were tackling steep lines and treacherous cliff drops, filming jaw-dropping video parts, and pushing the limits of the sport. With the birth of Red Bull Rampage in 2001, the event gave these pioneering riders a venue to prove that they were among the most skillful riders on the planet - not to mention some of the craziest. Red Bull Rampage immediately became the event that everyone clamored to be at all year; riders from all mountain bike disciplines hoped for an exclusive invite to the event, and the industry held its collective breath every October to see just how far Red Bull Rampage and the riders would push the sport.

After four inspiring and extremely successful years at the same venue, the long search began for a new, even more challenging piece of terrain.
Event organizers scoured the globe from Turkey to China to Mexico and beyond to find the perfect location that could match the sport’s progression. Ironically, after years of searching, it was only 20 miles from the original Red Bull Rampage site that the most ideal land revealed itself - and called for the return of mountain biking’s biggest event. Red Bull Rampage: The Evolution features all-new terrain with bigger man-made elements, and the possibilities are endless.
Robbie Bourdon, who placed third at the 2001 event, knows that the stakes will be raised in 2008. "They're going to bring slopestyle riding and big mountain riding together," he says, "and it's going to turn into the sickest contest ever."

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
On a dangerous network of ridges near Zion National Park, riders will have free reign to navigate their descent between a designated starting area and a finish line more than 1,000 vertical feet below. Thursday and Friday are open practice days for the athletes, allowing them to scout their lines, size up the thirty-plus foot gaps and cliff drops, and practice their tricks. On Saturday, each of the 28 invited riders will take two runs; their best single-run scores will determine the top
14 who will advance to Sunday's final. The 14 finalists will run two more descents on Sunday, with their best score determining the overall winner. In addition, the Utah Sports Commission will also present a Red Bull Rampage Best Trick award on Sunday.

PUSHING FORWARD
Competitors will be judged on style, amplitude, fluidity, and difficulty of line, and with a $25,000 prize purse up for grabs, playing it conservative is not a strategy option. Will past champs like Cedric Gracia (France) or Kyle Strait (USA) stand on the podium again, or will a dark horse emerge with new tricks or a gutsy line down the mountain that makes everyone re-think what is possible on a mountain bike?
Regardless of who emerges on top, Red Bull Rampage: The Evolution will once again expand the frontiers of the sport.

************

Red Bull Rampage Retrospective DVD Set Available On iTunes August 24,
2008
For a complete look at all of the history-making action that went down at Red Bull Rampage from 2001 to 2004, check out Freeride Entertainment's "Red Bull Rampage Retrospective" which will be available for download on Apple's iTunes store starting August 24th. Red Bull and VAS Entertainment have combined to offer this incredible five-disc set (plus Freeride's "New World Disorder 8", six discs total) for only $9.99. Don't miss this amazing offer, featuring the absolute best in freeride mountain biking.

About Utah Sports Commission
The Utah Sports Commission is a not-for-profit 501c3 charitable organization governed by an all-volunteer Board of Trustees consisting of statewide sports, business, community, and government leaders. The Sports Commission was created to foster national and international amateur and professional sports competitions to be held in the state of Utah, acting as a catalyst in unifying the states sports community and strengthening Utah's presence in the global sports marketplace. The Sports Commission works closely with communities, sports entities, and organizations to provide event services ranging from the bid process, on-site logistics, volunteer coordination, sponsorships and promotional opportunities and other related services. For more information, visit www.utahsportscommission.com


For more information, please visit www.redbullrampage.com

WOLF CREEK UTAH SUMMER CONCERT SERIES BRINGS COUNTRY MUSIC STAR ERIC HEATHERLY

EDEN, Utah -- (August 13, 2008) – Music in the Mountains, Wolf Creek Utah’s summer concert series, continues with country music singer-songwriter Eric Heatherly Saturday, Aug. 23. The second annual summer concert series has been a true hit with musical guests The Great Basin Street Band, the Utah Symphony, the Soul Survivors, and pianist Jon Schmidt.
Heatherly, a Fender endorsed guitar slinger, released his debut CD, “Swimming in Champagne,” in 2000. He is young self-taught artist who was influenced early on by country rock acts such as Steve Earle, Foster & Lloyd, Ricky Skaggs, and Lee Roy Parnell. In 2000, Heatherly was signed to Mercury Nashville Records and his debut single was a cover of “Flowers on the Wall”, which ended up being the top number three Country Single of 2000 accompanied by a number one video on the Country Music Channel and on Great American Country TV. Eric has been focusing on his newest release, “The Lower East Side of Life”, which he calls a labor of love with no corporate finger prints on it.
Wrapping up the summer concert series, the Joe Muscolino Band will perform Sept. 6. The band has a wide variety of sounds and sure knows how to throw a party. For over two decades, the Joe Muscolino Band has set the standard for corporate and wedding entertainment along the Wasatch front. Muscolino’s uncanny ability to select and perform music that appeals to multiple generations simultaneously guarantees a great party.
Wolf Creek is committed to keeping their entertainment affordable for all. Admittance to concerts is enjoyed for only $20 per carload.
Wolf Mountain is located at 3567 Nordic Valley Way in Eden, Utah. For a complete list of events and detailed driving instructions, please visit www.wolfcreekutah.com
2008 Music in the Mountains Line Up
Joe Muscolino Band September 6

Safari Club International to Sponsor National Hunting and Fishing Day

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Safari Club International, a leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting conservation worldwide, has stepped up as a major sponsor of National Hunting and Fishing Day, the annual celebration of hunters, anglers and conservation.

The 2008 celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day is set for Sept. 27.

At the urging of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Congress formalized National Hunting and Fishing Day in 1971. Presidents from Richard M. Nixon through George W. Bush have officially proclaimed their support, making the annual commemoration one of the most effective grassroots campaigns ever undertaken to promote traditional outdoor sports.

Consistent with its "SCI, First for Hunters" brand, Safari Club International's sponsorship supports the work of its 180 chapters that promote hunting across the country, as well as the educational efforts of Wonders of Wildlife museum, the official home of National Hunting and Fishing Day. The museum is developing communications campaigns, event-planning tips, promotional items and free online (www.nhfday.org) tools to show that conservation succeeds in America only because of hunters, anglers and shooters. In fact, through licenses and excise taxes, these outdoor enthusiasts generate $100,000 every 30 minutes for fish, wildlife and habitat programs.

"We believe the National Hunting and Fishing Day message is bigger than a one-day celebration. Wonders of Wildlife is expanding the celebration throughout the year. The generosity and commitment of SCI, its chapters and members, are key to this goal," said Denise Wagner, national coordinator for Wonders of Wildlife.

SCI President Dennis Anderson, whose history of volunteer leadership includes serving about 3,000 youths annually at the SCI Orange County, Calif., Chapter's Youth Safari Day, said, "There's nothing like seeing a youngster's face light up when they discover these great outdoor sports. National Hunting and Fishing Day celebrations and events nationwide throughout the year help young people get outside, and SCI wants to help them take those next steps toward the pursuit of a rewarding conservation ethic and healthy outdoor lifestyle."

NSSF remains the charter sponsor for National Hunting and Fishing Day. Other sponsors for 2008 include Wonders of Wildlife, Bass Pro Shops, The Sportsman Channel, National Wild Turkey Federation, Realtree, Cabela's, Woolrich, Gunbroker.com, Outdoor Channel and Safari Club International.

Outdoor television personality Michael Waddell is serving as honorary chairman for National Hunting and Fishing Day 2008.

For more information, visit www.nhfday.org

OFF-ROADERS BOOTED FROM ARIZONA MONUMENT DUE TO ABUSES

Section of Sonoran Desert National Monument Off-Limits to ORVs for Two-Years

 
 

Tucson — A large portion of the Sonoran Desert National Monument will be closed to off-road vehicle traffic for two years to help it recover from the environmental toll of growing motorized abuse, according to agency e-mails released today by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER).  This would be the first long-term ORV ban on BLM public lands in Arizona due to natural resource damage.

 

Under orders to be published this week in the Federal Register, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which manages the monument, will declare nearly 55,000 acres (approximately four times the land area of Manhattan) off-limits to all ORV traffic for "up to two years or more, depending on the restoration success," according to the acting monument manager.  An estimated 90 miles of ORV routes will also be closed to motorized use.  This no-ORV zone lies southeast of the North Maricopa Mountains wilderness.

 

"BLM is taking a good first step toward protecting the Sonoran Desert National Monument from off-road excess," stated Southwest PEER Director Daniel Patterson, an ecologist who formerly worked with BLM.  "It is the first of what likely will be many more ORV bans to shield public lands that cannot handle the growing motorized traffic and are literally being ripped apart."

 

Located between Phoenix and Tucson, the nearly half-million acre Sonoran Desert National Monument includes some of the most scenic and biologically rich desert lands in North America.  The Monument has also seen an exponential increase in ORV traffic that, by BLM's own admission, is beyond its ability to effectively manage.  Damage to its lands has reached the point where, last year, agency officials suggested a monument-wide prohibition on ORV use.

 

Unfortunately, the deteriorating situation at the Sonoran Desert National Monument is becoming prevalent on public lands across the West.  Beyond the environmental toll, off-road vehicles are now, by far, the number one law enforcement problem on federal lands in the Southwest, according to agency statistics compiled by PEER.  Increasingly, agencies such as the BLM and U.S. Forest Service are overwhelmed by the sheer number of off-roaders, widespread disregard for agency route restrictions and the enormous, cumulative damage inflicted on the landscapes.

 

 For the Sonoran Desert National Monument, the length of the ORV-ban and the restoration criteria will be much scrutinized.  The Federal Register notice will spell out those terms and go into effect 30 days later, sometime in mid-June.

 

"This protective order is long overdue, and two years will likely not be enough time to heal the land from the extensive ORV damage." added Patterson. "This is a good move, but BLM must do more to truly manage the Sonoran Desert and other monuments for conservation, rather than for how much abuse they can withstand."

 

###

 

See the e-mails outlining the closure order

http://www.peer.org/docs/az/08_13_5_monument_closure_emails.pdf

 

Look at a map of the no-ORV zone

http://www.peer.org/docs/az/08_13_5_monument_closure_map.pdf

 

Learn more about the deteriorating conditions on the SDNM leading to the closure

http://www.peer.org/news/news_id.php?row_id=953

 

Look at the growing toll ORVs are inflicting on our landscapes

http://www.peer.org/campaigns/publiclands/orv/index.php

HOT Catches from the IGFA

HOT Catches from the IGFA

May 2008

 By Pete Johnson, Johnson Communications – IGFA PR counsel

From across the globe the International Game Fish Association's world records department receives nearly a hundred submissions each month. Here are highlights of selected documented fish catches from IGFA world records coordinator Rebecca Wright who provided the following information on these 12 recent submissions now before the world records review committee:

Two years ago Dr. Martin Arostegui of Coral Gables, Fla., USA, set a new record off Key West, Fla., by catching and releasing a lemon shark, the heaviest fish documented on a fly rod.  That heaviest-fish-on-fly-record might be broken by Rick Gunion, Village of Palmetto Bay, Fla., USA, who also landed a shark, a tiger (Galeocerdo cuvier), on March 28, weighing 222.26 kg (490 lb 0 oz) on 8 kg (16 lb) tippet. Gunion was guided by Brett Dudas while fishing Mantinilla Shoal, Bahamas.  He used an orange streamer for bait and took 40 minutes to bring the shark under control. Gunion, like Arostegui, has numerous world records for various shark species on fly. If his documentation is approved, it would also break the men's tippet record for a 196 lb 6 oz, tiger caught near Flamingo, Fla., by Pat Ford in March 1999.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Judith E. White, of Grand Haven, Mich., USA, guided by Capt. Chris Morrison, landed a blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus) on March 30, weighing 3.18 kg (7 lb 0 oz) using cut bait on 6 kg (12 lb) class line. Taking four minutes to land she made the catch while fishing Marathon, Florida, USA, and now may be among the first to fill the women's line class record section for the recently added new species to the IGFA World Record Game Fishes book.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Another new species added this year to the World Record Game Fishes book is the hickory shad (Alosa mediocris) and young angler John William Winstead, of Kill Devil Hills, N.C. USA is one of the first to catch one for a pending IGFA record. His catch was made on March 28 using a Nungesser shad spoon for bait, while fishing the Roanoke River in N.C., The fish weighed .62 kg (1 lb 6 oz) and the young man is waiting to hear if he's the first to make his mark for a new male junior class record.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

A new all-tackle species for the IGFA record book was caught by Ayaka Kosuge, of Miura-Shi, Kanagawa, Japan, who guided by Katsu Yonamine, landed a coastal trevally, (Carangoides caetuleopinnatus) on March 5, weighing 1.05 kg (2 lb 5 oz). Fishing off Ginanzaki, Japan, Kosuge used a VR speed jig for bait taking just five minutes to bring the fish in.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Fishing the Rio Negro, in Colombia, Medellin angler Alejandro Linares, landed a sardinata (Brycon whitei) on March 22, weighing 4.08 kg (9 lb 0 oz) for a pending IGFA All-Tackle class record. It took him 15 minutes to land the fish using an in-line spinner for bait.  The old record caught in Venezuela last year is 4 lb 4 oz in.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

George Bogen of Los Angeles, Calif., USA, guided by Modesto Miranda, landed a gulf coney (Epinephalus acanthistius) on March 15 while fishing Mexico's San Jose Del Cabo.  The fish, a member of the grouper family, weighed 5.78 kg (12 lb 12 oz) and was submitted for an IGFA All-Tackle class record. Bogen was using frozen squid for bait and it took him six minutes to land. The current record is 11 lb 12 oz caught two years ago in the same waters of Mexico. 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
Escaping the still frigid weather of her home in Bozeman, Mont. USA, fly angler Dotty Ballantyne, chose Andros Island, Bahamas to chase her next potential IGFA world record.  Guided by Steven Adderly, she landed a whaler shark (Carcharhinidae family) on April 4, weighing 11.11 kg (24 lb 8 oz) on 4 kg (8 lb) class tippet.  She used a red/white baitfish fly to entice the fish which followed with a 20 minute fight. The current women's record for the species is 16 lb 8 oz caught off Strangers Cay, Bahamas last June. 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Junior angler Heather Michell Harkavy, Coral Springs, Fla., USA fishing off Flamingo, Fla., and using cut bait, landed a cobia (Rachycentron canadum) weighing 29.94 kg  (66 lb 0 oz). Guided by Capt. Jay Wright Jr., she's hoping the April 20 catch breaks the current female junior class record of 65 lb 4 oz, caught on Chesapeake Bay, Va., USA in 2002.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

A new IGFA All-Tackle species submission was made by Mauro Sergio Preuss, Curitiba-Pr, Brazil, who landed a chicote surubim (Sorubimichthys) August 20, 2007. The fish weighed 6.28 kg (13 lb 13 oz) and was caught while Preuss was fishing the Araguia River, Brazil.

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Fly-fishing Uraima Falls in Venezuela, Miami, Florida USA's Eduardo Aristeguieta, guided by Guerrero Marino, landed a payara (Hydrolicus scomberoides) on April 19, weighing 7.71 kg (17 lb 0 oz). He was using a FPF blue mackerel fly on 10 kg (20 lb) class tippet and took 15 minutes to reel the payara in. He's hoping to beat the old record of 14 lb 0 oz, recorded Feb. 2001 also at the same falls.

 
 

 
 

 
 

Ninth annual IGFA Offshore World Championship attracts 63 teams

For Immediate Release:

 

27 countries from six continents in Cabo for prestigious catch-and-release tournament

 

CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico ---
Sixty-three boats with teams of anglers are set to blast away from the mouth of the Cabo San Lucas harbor early Monday morning signifying the start of the four-day IGFA Offshore World Championship, throughout the week of May 11 – 16.

    "We have representation of teams from 27 countries on six continents," said tournament director Mike Myatt as he and Alberto Trevino the Secretaria de Turismo de Baja California Sur, welcomed the international anglers to the premier fishing location. Considered the most prestigious catch-and-release billfishing tournament in the world, the event also draws the single largest contingent of international teams ever to compete in a fishing competition.

    Countries and territories represented include teams from Angola, Australia, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Croatia, Grenada, Guatemala,
Italy, Jamaica,
Kenya,
Mexico, New Zealand, Panama,
Papua New Guinea,
Portugal,
Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Spain,
Sultanate of Oman, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks and Caicos, the United States, Vanuatu and Venezuela. Many of the teams in the ninth annual tournament will be represented by anglers from a number of additional countries.

The U.S. has 14 teams signed on. Both Mexico and Brazil are represented by five teams each; Italy and Angola each have four.

    The teams previously qualified by winning one of 130 IGFA sanctioned tournaments held in 38 countries worldwide during 2007. It's the seventh straight year Cabo San Lucas has been chosen as the championship location.

They'll fish for marlin, sailfish and other billfish species with the top team winning engraved watches along with trophies and merchandise. Awards are presented through to the third place finishing team. The final results will be made on Friday at noon PDT.

At the IGFA OWC last year, a team representing its win in Spain's Marina Rubicon Marlin Cup 2006 tournament leaped from the middle of the 62 boat field to a dramatic win by one release fish over a team from Cabo San Lucas. It was the second straight year that a team, on the final day of the four day competition, had an amazing 10 releases of striped marlin to win the championship. Using circle hooks, a total of 335 marlin were caught and safely released alongside the teams' boats.

    At a kickoff party Sunday at the Hotel Finisterra, each team participated in a drawing for their four different boats --- ones they hope will guide them daily to multiple bill fish releases. All of the boats are captained by local Cabo guides.

Partners and sponsors for the IGFA Offshore World Championship are Secretaria de Turismo de Baja California Sur, Costa Del Mar, Hotel Finisterra, Guy Harvey Inc., Shimano,  Picante Sport Fishing and Yacht Sales, Cabo Yachts, K D & G Sea Life Masterpieces, Hook & Tackle, Momoi Hi-Catch, Murray Products, AFTCO BlueWater, Bodo Muche, Minerva's Baja Tackle, Señor Greenberg's, IWS Scales, King Sailfish Mounts, Pompanette, Pisces Sportfishing, Corona and Modelo S.A DE C.V. Mexico, Don Tyson, Trans Cabo, Eagle Claw, MoldCraft Products, Inc. and API Dock. 

    Each morning the daily results along with photos of the previous day's round will be posted on the IGFA's home page at www.igfa.org . A list of registered teams can also be found on the web site under the fishing tab on the home page by clicking "tournaments."

    Next year, to begin the event's 10^th anniversary, the tournament welcomes the Bonnier Marine Group which will join the IGFA to manage the world championship which began in 2000.

    Founded in 1939 the IGFA is a not-for-profit organization committed to the conservation of game fish and promotion of responsible, ethical angling practices through science, education, rule making and record keeping. IGFA members are located in over 125 countries and territories. The IGFA welcomes visitors to its 60,000-square-foot interactive Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum in Dania Beach, Florida.

###

 

Advance sent May 10, 2008

Contact: Pete Johnson, Johnson Communications, Inc.

Scottsdale, Ariz. 85267

480-951-3654 (ph) 480-951-0040 (fax)

JohnsonCom@aol.com (e-mail)

 

Driving in deer country—five tips to keep you safe

You may have seen them in Utah this winter: deer, moose and herds of elk nipping at salt-covered grass near the side of a road.

Most of the animals you saw were probably alive. But a fair number were probably dead, killed by vehicles flying down the road.

"Roadsides attract big game animals because they're plowed and salted," says Anis Aoude, big game coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources.

"The plowing exposes the grass and other vegetation to the sun. That allows it to 'green-up' quicker than the other vegetation in the area. And the minerals in the salt are also something the animals want."

Deer, moose and elk are usually cautious near roads during the day. But as soon as the sun goes down, everything changes.

"The headlights of the vehicles blind the animals, and they can't see the cars," Aoude says. "They can see the headlights, but they don't know there's a vehicle attached to them."

Aoude provides the following tips to keep both you and the animals safe:

Slow down.
Put your cell phone down, keep your eyes open and be alert.
Instead of looking only straight ahead, scan the side of the road as you drive. "By the time the animals are in front of you, it's too late," Aoude says.
If you're traveling at night, keep your headlights on high beam as much as possible.
Watch for deer crossing signs. They'll alert you to areas that have high numbers of deer, moose and elk.

For more information, call the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

Elk Callers from Five States Win World Titles

MISSOULA, Mont.—New world champion elk callers from California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada and Washington were crowned during the weekend in Reno.

Competition was held in six divisions as part of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s 24th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo. The event was held for the third straight year at the Reno/Sparks Convention Center. Next year the championships will move to Fort Worth, Texas.

The RMEF Dickies/CamoWest World Elk Calling Championships began with preliminary rounds on Friday. Top callers advanced to final rounds on Saturday.

More than 50 callers from 10 states competed.

In the event, callers have 30-45 seconds to mimic cow elk sounds, followed by bull sounds. Professional-level competitors are required to make specific calls such as barks, whistles and screaming bugles. Most callers blow across a latex reed placed inside the mouth. In the natural-voice division, however, no calling devices are allowed. A variety of plastic tubes are used like megaphones, giving the sounds realistic resonance. Judges score each competitor.

Winners received prizes and cash ranging from $500 to $2,500.


RESULTS

PeeWee Division
1. Schafer Bungay, Kalispell, Mont.
2. Gavin McKitrick, McAllister, Mont.
3. Tawny Bungay, Kalispell, Mont.

Youth Division
1. Gregory Hubbell Jr., Belmont, Calif.
2. Patrick Whitaker, Lebanon, Ore.
3. Ross LeValley, Hotchkiss, Colo.

Voice Division
1. Michael James Hatten, Elko, Nev.
2. Isaac Jacobsen, Boise, Idaho
3. Kyle Tanner, West Yellowstone, Mont.

Women’s Division
1. Misty Waggener, Sandpoint, Idaho
2. Deb Bungay, Kalispell, Mont.
3. Bobbi Alwine, Muleno, Colo.

Men’s Division
1. Greg Hubbell, Belmont, Calif.
2. Dirk Durham, Moscow, Idaho
3. Thomas Diesing, Loveland, Colo.

Professional Division
1. Joel Turner, Eatonville, Wash.
2. Al Morris, Springville, Utah
3. J.R. Keller, Delta, Colo

See Hundreds of Tundra Swans

Tundra Swan Day - March 8

The Division of Wildlife Resources will host its annual Tundra Swan Day on March 8. Admission is free.

Viewing will take place at three sites -- the Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area west of Farmington, the Salt Creek WMA west of Corinne and the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge west of Brigham City.

Farmington Bay and Salt Creek

Viewing at the Farmington Bay and Salt Creek WMAs runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

DWR biologists and volunteer naturalists will have spotting scopes set up so you can get a close look at the swans. They’ll also provide parabolic dishes you can use to get a crystal-clear listen to the unique sounds the swans make.

At the Farmington Bay WMA, you can also hop into a van for a “behind the gates” tour. These free tours will take you to parts of the WMA that are normally closed this time of the year.

Bear River

Viewing at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge runs from sunrise to sunset. You can see swans from your vehicle as you drive along the refuge’s auto-tour route.

Before heading to the refuge, stop by its Wildlife Education Center at
2155 W. Forest St. in Brigham City for maps and information. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To reach the center, exit I-15 at Exit 363. After you’ve exited the freeway, turn west. The center is about one block west of the freeway.

For more information about Tundra Swan Day, call the DWR’s Northern Region office at (801) 476-2740 or the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge at (435) 723-5887.

Watching and listening on your own

If you can’t attend the March 8 event, some great opportunities are available to watch and listen to swans on your own.

The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is one of the best. You can see hundreds of swans along the refuge’s auto tour loop. The 12-mile loop will take you across most of the refuge that’s open to the public.

The Ogden Bay WMA also provides two good spots to see and listen to swans.

One of those spots is the parking area at 5500 W. in Hooper. The parking area is at the end of 5500 W., about one mile north of 4000 S.

The other spot is the parking area at 7500 W. in West Warren. The parking area is at the end of 7500 W., about one mile south of 12th Street (SR-39).

The migration of swans through Utah should peak within the next three weeks. Thousands of swans will be in Utah then.

Junior Ranger Essay Contest Announced Winner to Receive Family Vacation and Other Prizes

The winner of this year’s 2008 Junior Ranger essay contest will receive an all expense paid family vacation to one of the country’s most remarkable national parks and a starring role in an electronic field trip seen by millions of school children across the country.

The essay contest is open to children between 9 and 12 years old. Each person must express his or her thoughts on “What can you do now to turn over a new leaf for the environment and help preserve our national parks?”

National Park Service Director Mary A. Bomar, First Lady Laura Bush, and National Park Foundation President and CEO Vin Cipolla announced the details of this year’s contest during a recent visit to Everglades National Park in Florida. A group of local 5th graders joined them to help plant native trees in a park restoration project prior to the announcement. “Children throughout the country, like those here today, are more interested and involved in environmental issues than ever before,” said Bomar. “They can make a difference, both now and in the future, on the impact of humans on the land. I can’t wait to hear all of the wonderful ideas that will come from this essay contest.”

The grand prize winner will receive a trip for four to Everglades National Park where he or she will appear in an electronic field trip about invasive species in national parks. The prize includes round trip air transportation, car rental, hotel accommodations, meal expenses, a $1,000 Macy’s shopping spree, and an America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass.

Essays must be 500 words or less and received on-line or by mail by March 14, 2008. Each entry will be judged on originality, clarity, and understanding of the issue. Additional contest information is available at www.nps.gov.

Winter Feeding Program Draws Support, Warning from Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.—Responding to an emergency declaration by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is sending funds to help feed thousands of elk, deer and antelope starving in deep-snow conditions.

But the Elk Foundation’s financial support comes with a warning about severe winterkill as a symptom of an even more debilitating disease—habitat loss.

“Artificially feeding elk is a poor substitute for protecting their native habitat,” said Jack Blackwell, vice president of lands and conservation for the Elk Foundation. “In general, some winter mortality is normal. It’s nature’s way of balancing herds with their habitat. But when too much winter range is lost to urban development or invasive weeds, a harsh winter can be a catastrophic reminder of our obligation to conserve land.”

Colorado’s wildlife habitat is being lost at alarming rates as cities sprawl and ranchettes consume open spaces long used by wintering elk.

“If we don’t act urgently to protect habitat, especially Colorado’s winter range, eventually the balance will tip so far against wildlife that severe winterkill will become the norm, not the exception,” predicted Blackwell.

Biologists say Colorado is experiencing brutal weather in many areas, with Gunnison Basin listed as the worst. Snowpack levels are among highest ever recorded with many weeks of winter remaining. At the same time, nighttime temperatures are falling as low as 35 degrees below zero.

Pronghorn antelope and mule deer are hardest hit. Emergency feeding is underway for approximately 6,500 deer and 500 antelope at 105 locations on federal and private lands.

About 2,500 elk are being fed weed-free hay dropped from helicopters. Though elk are faring better than deer and antelope, some biologists worry about fewer births and greater calf mortality next spring.

PICABO’S SKI CHALLENGE 2008

Benefiting Victims of Child Abuse


SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (January 14, 2008) - Olympic Gold Medalist Picabo Street is hosting the fourth annual Picabo’s Ski Challenge, an amateur ski race and après ski party to raise awareness and support for victims of child abuse. The event takes place at Park City Mountain Resort on Sunday, January 20, 2008, and all proceeds support National Children’s Alliance and Children’s Advocacy Centers nationwide.

Held during the opening weekend of the Sundance Film Festival, corporations and individuals will sponsor race teams from across the country that compete to raise money and awareness for abused children. Each race team is captained by a celebrity, sports figure or dignitary. As part of the festivities, select sponsors will have the chance of a lifetime to participate in “First Tracks,” skiing with Picabo Street and other world-champion skiers before the resort opens on Saturday, January 19th and Sunday, January 20th. Corporate and individual donors are also invited to attend a VIP reception dinner including a live and silent auction the evening of Saturday, January 19th at Deer Valley Resort. Live auction items include: Four Seasons Paris package, E! Entertainment experience with Giuliana DePandi, Access Hollywood experience with Billy Bush, Las Vegas NASCAR giveaway, Korbel California Winery package, and private ski lessons with Picabo Street, among many other great prizes.

The ski race will be held at Park City Mountain Resort’s Eagle Race Arena, located at the base of the Eagle Lift. Full mountain access lift tickets will be provided to all participants. Each race team is made up of four individuals and handicaps will be provided based on skill. Snowboarders are welcome. The luncheon and après ski party will be held in a private hospitality tent located at the base of the racecourse. The schedule is as follows:

• 7:00 am: “First Tracks” Skiing
• 10:30 am: Race Begins
• 1:30 pm: Tented Luncheon and Après Ski Party
• 3:00 pm: Awards Ceremony and Closing

Celebrities confirmed to date include: Picabo Street (Olympic Gold Medalist and Host), Bill Rancic (“The Apprentice” Winner and Co-host), Billy Bush (Access Hollywood Correspondent), Kate Walsh (Actress), Giuliana DePandi (E! Entertainment Correspondent), Dakota Fanning (Actress), Lisa Ling (Actress/Writer), Kristen Bell (Actress), Stephen Colletti (Actor), Audrina Patridge (Actress), James Eckhouse (Actor) and Nickolai Stoilov (Actor).

Corporations supporting the Picabo Ski Challenge include: Park City Mountain Resort, Korbel California Champagne, Sara Lee, Nike, KSL-5 (NBC), KSL Newsradio, FM 100 and 103.5 Arrow, Idearc Media (publisher of Verizon Yellow Pages and superpages.com), Zermatt Resort & Spa, Volkl, Bolle, Intermountain Healthcare, America First Credit Union, Energy Solutions and R & O Construction.

Participation in Picabo’s Ski Challenge is tax deductible. All proceeds will benefit National Children’s Alliance and over 600 Children’s Advocacy Centers nationwide. Children’s Advocacy Centers are changing the way America’s communities intervene in cases of child abuse one community at a time. For more information or if you are interested in participating or making a donation, please contact Marcie Mason at (801) 718-7887 or picaboskichallenge@yahoo.com