May 2003

Columbia Bottom CA open to public again

The official reopening of Columbia Bottom Conservation Area May 30 puts exciting new hiking, biking, birdwatching, fishing and hunting opportunities within easy reach of St. Louis residents. (Missouri Dept. of Conservation photo)

Visitors will find hiking and biking trails, fishing access, a boat ramp and a platform overlooking the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.

ST. LOUIS-Columbia Bottom Conservation Area, a spot that witnessed the passage of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery 199 years ago this month, is moving into a new phase of its history. In its latest incarnation, it will host bikers, hikers, birdwatchers and anglers. By the fall of 2004, when the Missouri Department of Conservation completes the next phase of development there, waterfowl hunters will join the ranks of Columbia Bottom regulars.

Columbia Bottom CA reopened to public use May 30. When the Conservation Department bought the 4,300-acre area in 1997, it was mostly farmland with limited recreational potential. Access to the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, which form the area's east and north boundaries, was difficult at best. Completion of Phase 1 development this spring will make it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs from coast to coast.

"The opportunities at Columbia Bottom are just tremendous," said area manager Tom Leifield, a wildlife management biologist for the Conservation Department. "It will offer a full range of recreation, and with the approach of the Lewis and Clark bicentennial, this area is going to see a lot of visitors right away."

One feature that will make the area particularly popular among Lewis and Clark aficionados is a viewing platform overlooking the confluence of the continent's two greatest rivers. Nationally sponsored Lewis and Clark signature events in the area next spring are expected to trigger an influx of visitors intent on retracing the path of the Corps of Discovery up the Missouri River. Visitors will find Columbia Bottom CA a convenient place not only to look at the rivers, but to enjoy many of the adventures that early explorers found along the river.

A double-wide, disabled-accessible boat ramp with fishing dock and other amenities will give visitors free access to hunting, fishing, camping and beach combing on the two rivers. Anglers will find abundant channel, blue and flathead catfish, as well as freshwater drum, carp, gar, sturgeon, walleye and other fish species.

The rivers also offer waterfowl hunting, an opportunity that will be enhanced by an 800-acre wetland development on Columbia Bottom slated for completion by the fall of 2004. Deer and turkey hunting already are available there.

The four-phase construction plan, expected to be completed in 2005, includes plans for a Visitor Center, reforestation and placement of interpretive "Exploration Stations" focusing on native and migratory wildlife, plant species and the rivers.

Bird and wildlife watchers will find abundant viewing opportunities at Columbia Bottom CA. Species on the area include migratory waterfowl to wild turkeys, beaver, bald eagles and groundhogs, to name a few.

Managed hunts will be available on the area for white-tail deer and doves in the fall of 2003. Waterfowl hunting opportunities will be offered once the wetland project is completed.

The Army Corps of Engineers and the Metropolitan Park and Recreation District worked with the Conservation Department on the project. Eventually, trails there will connect with a system of greenways, parks and trails that includes Katy Trail State Park, the Confluence Greenway, the Missouri River Greenway and the Riverfront Trail.

Columbia Bottom CA is on Columbia Bottom Road, 2.5 miles north of I-270 Riverview Drive in St. Louis County. For information about the area, call 636/441-4554.

- Jim Low -

Missourians encouraged to adopt conservation trails

If you enjoy hiking, biking or horseback riding on conservation areas, consider volunteering time to help keep trails in top condition.

JEFFERSON CITY-Missourians who enjoy hiking and equestrian trails on conservation areas now can give something back through the Missouri Department of Conservation's Adopt A Trail Program.

The Conservation Department manages 346 miles of multi-use trails open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Another 290 miles of trail are either disabled-accessible or open to hiking only. Some trails get more use than others, but all trails require regular maintenance. That, said Conservation Department Recreation Specialist Teresa Kight, adds up to a lot of work.

"Trail work is just one of many responsibilities that our staff has on conservation areas. With a limited amount of time and money available for trail maintenance," our workers aren't always able to keep up with trail maintenance needs."

Kight said one way to continue providing quality hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking opportunities is to enlist the help of volunteers. A new program called Adopt-A-Trail provides opportunities for trail users to get actively involved in conservation and have a direct impact on the recreational facilities that they use and enjoy.

Volunteers can help by monitoring, maintaining and enhancing trails and trailhead facilities. Common trail maintenance tasks include clearing loose rocks, sticks and branches that accumulate on trail surfaces, cutting back limbs and brush, cleaning water bars and drainage ditches, clearing debris from bridges, stairs and viewing decks and picking up trash.

"The efforts of Adopt-A-Trail volunteers will help to improve our trails statewide and will be appreciated by all who visit conservation areas," said Kight. "If you want to be one of the first in your region to adopt a trail, you can call me at 573/522-4115, ext. 3636, or E-mail me at kightt@mdc.state.mo.us."

- Jim Low -

Outdoor writers' conference to focus national attention on Missouri conservation and recreation

Hundreds of writers, editors, photographers, video producers and other media professionals will sample Missouri's outdoor flavor at a conference in Columbia.

COLUMBIA, Mo.--The annual conference of the Outdoor Writers Association of America in Columbia is expected to focus national media attention on the Show-Me State's natural assets, boosting the state's economy for years to come.

OWAA's 1,700-plus active members include writers, editors and photographers for magazines and newspapers nationwide, as well as radio and television show hosts, video producers and online information service providers. The event will feature an address by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton and panel discussions on national conservation topics, including big-river management.

More than 300 media professionals already have registered for the event June 14 through 18. OWAA Conference Planner Eileen King says she expects total attendance--including supporting members and guests--to top 800.

OWAA conferences include opportunities for writers to sample host-state hunting, fishing, hiking and other recreation while gathering information and photographs for use in stories. Attendees also get a close look at locally-produced outdoor products and services and learn about state and regional conservation issues. A day-long "breakout" session allows them to test the latest outdoor equipment and meet tourism officials.

Missouri conservation and tourism officials are enthusiastic about the benefits of hosting the OWAA conference. State and local officials worked together for a year assembling all the elements necessary for a successful conference bid, competing against other cities that also wanted to host the conference.

Missouri Division of Tourism Director John Robinson said his agency cooperated closely with Columbia officials to bring the conference to Missouri.

"We are delighted that the outdoor writers are meeting in Missouri," said Robinson. "They will get a firsthand look at Missouri hunting, fishing, floating, camping and hiking, and of course, biking. This exposure will continue to pay dividends to Missouri's tourism industry and the state economy for years as these outdoor communicators tell Missouri's story to their audiences around the nation."

The Missouri Department of Conservation also participated in the OWAA conference bid, pledging staff support to help outdoor communicators take full advantage of outdoor story possibilities here.

"Missourians have supported the most amazing mix of outdoor opportunities through hunting and fishing permits and the conservation sales tax for many years," said Conservation Department Outreach and Education Division Administrator Lorna Domke. "Whether it's fishing for bass, watching warblers or canoeing down an Ozark stream, Missourian's have created an outdoor communicator's dream-not to mention quality living in healthy natural world. This is a perfect chance to let the rest of the nation see what Missourians have created."

Bass Pro Shops, headquartered in Springfield, has been a major supporter of the OWAA conference bid, contributing hundreds of hours of labor to the effort. It also has given tens of thousands of dollars of equipment and supplies needed to conduct the event. Bass Pro Shops and the Tracker Marine Group, another of the Bass Pro family of companies, contributed a $10,000 bass boat package that is being raffled off to raise money for OWAA's scholarship fund.

Bass Pro Shops Manager of Corporate Public Relations Larry Whiteley said, "We are excited to be a part of this year's OWAA Conference and look forward to helping make this a memorable experience for all members. Missouri is a great state and we are proud to call it home."

Conference information is available online at www.owaa.org/Columbia/ or by phone at 800/692-2477.

OWAA has held its conference in Missouri twice in the past, in St. Louis in 1938 and in Rolla in 1955. Three Missourians--Buck Rogers of Columbia, Dan Saults of Branson and Joel Vance of Russellville--have served as president of the group. A fourth, Spencer Turner of Columbia, currently serves as the group's third vice-president and is in line to serve as president in 2005-2006. Saults, Vance and Turner all worked for the Conservation Department.

- Jim Low -

Fishing tackle loan program makes sure kids get a chance to fish

Giving kids an opportunity to fish is the goal of the Fishing Tackle Loaner Program sponsored by the Future Fisherman Foundation. To learn more about the program, or for information about how to get started fishing, call 703/519-9691 or visit http://www.futurefisherman.org/ hofnod/ftlp_rotary.php3. (Missouri Dept. of Conservation photo)

Local partners, including the public library and the Rotary Club, make fishing equipment available to families.

WEST PLAINS, Mo.-School is out, and with summer spread out before them like an empty canvas, children are looking for ways to paint memories in the scrapbook of life. For some, the memories will be of idle days and boredom. More than a few will look around for things to do and find mischief. But in one Missouri community, every child can get the equipment needed for a safe, wholesome summer activity, fishing.

The West Plains Fishing Tackle Loaner Program is the product of one woman's energy and the cooperation of several organizations. Mary Palmer, a fisheries management biologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation, started the program.

"It's surprising how many kids don't have access to a fishing rod, hooks and a bobber," said Palmer. "Besides that, there are a lot of single-parent homes today. That means more families don't have anyone who knows how to fish."

A single parent herself, Palmer is keenly aware of barriers that prevent many families from taking that first fishing trip. She said economic pressures create a double bind. Parents who work long hours to provide for their children have less time to enjoy family activities than in years past. She said the Fishing Tackle Loaner Program lowers some of those barriers.

The program is the brainchild of the Future Fisherman Foundation (FFF), a national organization that promotes fishing among youth. But the heart of the program is local initiative and support. To make the program work in West Plains, Palmer built a partnership among civic organizations.

Rotary International supports the fishing tackle loaner program, so Palmer made a presentation to the West Plains Sunrise Rotary Club and got a commitment for financial help. West Plains residents Jim and Sarah Thompson donated money in memory of their son, Jeff. A firefighter who died in the line of duty, Jeff loved hunting and fishing. A substantial discount obtained through the National Sportfishing Association enabled Palmer to buy 12 rod-and-reel sets.

Equipment and supplies were only part of what Palmer needed to make the program work. Just as important were a place to house the equipment and someone to lend it out and make sure it was returned. For this, she turned to the West Plains Public Library.

Children's Librarian Kelli Cook immediately saw the potential for benefits to the library's children's reading program and children in the community. The library agreed to try the program for two years. That was four years ago, and the program is still going strong.

"We made the fishing loaner program part of our children's programs," said Cook. "We use books about fishing in our programs, and Mary comes a couple of times a year and does programs for story hour. She shows how to tie hooks and talks about where to fish. They even have casting practice outside. We advertise it in the newspaper and on the radio. It gives families an easy way to do things outdoors together. It has been really worthwhile."

Cook said the fishing rod display in the library catches the eyes of visitors, who then ask about borrowing the gear. "Lots of the people are first-timers," she said. She admits that she and her family were among the families that got hooked on fishing at the library.

"We had never taken our daughters fishing, and when they saw the rods they asked if they could check them out. We did, and my husband bought a fishing permit so he could take them fishing. After two weeks we renewed the loan, and after that I told them I thought it was time for us to buy them fishing rods of their own."

The West Plains Fishing Tackle Loaner Program is available to any family with children age 5 through 15 from April through September. Other than that, the only requirement is that someone in the family have a library card. They get to use the equipment free of charge for two weeks. First-time borrowers receive a small tackle box with hooks, sinkers, a bobber and other fishing necessities Palmer performs routine equipment maintenance such as occasionally putting new line on fishing reels.

We are so grateful to our sponsors," she said. "The key to our success has been consistent support from all the partners. They are the ones who have made it work."

Palmer said information from Future Fisherman Foundation about how to organize and run a fishing tackle loaner program was another critical factor in her program's success. "They walk you right through the process," she said. "It takes some work, but if you want to set up a program, they give you everything you need to know."

West Plains' fishing tackle loaner program is the only one listed for Missouri on the FFF Web site. To learn how to set up a similar program in your area, visit http://www.futurefisherman.org/hofnod/ftlp_rotary.php3 or call 703/519-9691. The Web site also has information for beginning anglers and fishing games for children.

Missouri has a wealth of public fishing areas throughout the state. To find a fishing spot near you, call the nearest Conservation Department office or use the online Conservation Atlas at http://www.conservation.state.mo.us/cgi-bin/atlas/simplesearch.cgi. Just type in the name of the county where you want to fish and discover the wealth of fishing areas in your neighborhood.

- Jim Low -

Conservation areas are excellent places to celebrate National Trails Day

Missourians can choose from dozens of areas with hundreds of miles of trails.

JEFFERSON CITY--When the sun rises on June 7, it is likely to find people peeking out of tents or setting off on day hikes at more than three dozen conservation areas (CAs) around the state. Celebrating National Trails Day with a short jaunt of half a mile or a 20-mile trek are among the many ways of enjoying land owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

This year's National Trails Day theme is "Healthy Trails, Healthy People," focusing attention on the health benefits of hiking. The Conservation Department notes that these benefits are available to Missourians at conservation areas in every part of the state.

"When people think of conservation areas they usually think of hunting and fishing," said Teresa Kight, recreation specialist for the Conservation Department. "They certainly are used for that, but CAs also are super places to hike, picnic, camp, take nature photographs or just poke around looking at bugs and wildflowers."

CAs have more than 650 miles of trails ranging from primitive earthen paths to paved, handicapped-accessible trails. Virtually no Missourian is more than a 45 minute drive from at least one such area.

CAs with excellent scenic hiking opportunities include:
--Ruth and Paul Henning CA, Taney County, 5.8 miles;
--Lon Sanders Canyon CA, Wayne County, 1 mile;
--Millstream Gardens CA, Madison County, 1 mile (disabled accessible);
--Fountain Grove CA, Linn and Chariton counties, 4 miles;
--Maple Woods CA, Clay County, 2 miles;
--Riverbreaks CA, Holt County, 10 miles;
--Deer Ridge CA, Lewis County, 13 miles;
--Woodson K. Woods Memorial CA, 30 miles.

Trails at Conservation Nature Centers (CNCs) are within easy driving distance of much of the state's population. Burr Oak Woods CNC in Blue Springs, Powder Valley CNC in Kirkwood, Runge CNC in Jefferson City and Springfield CNC in Springfield each has several trails for exploring a variety of habitats. Each of these areas has trails with varying degrees of accessibility to people with physical disabilities.

The Devil=s Honeycomb Trail at Hughes Mountain Natural Area near Potosi travels through woodlands and glades and around the summit of the igneous rock mountain. The rock outcroppings on the mountain are among the oldest exposed rocks in the United States. The Devil=s Honeycomb Trail is 1.5 miles long. No facilities are offered at the area and camping is prohibited.

The Danville Glades Trail lets hikers explore the largest high quality limestone glade complex north of the Missouri River. The trail is located at Danville CA near Warrenton. The three mile trail winds along narrow ridges and numerous creeks. Much of the trail is level, with a moderately steep slope at either end.

The Ironwood Hollow Foot Trail is a 1.8-mile natural-surface loop at Sugar Creek CA near Kirksville. The wide and well marked trail leads through white oak and oak hickory forests. Horses and bicycles are permitted on a separate, designated trail, which forms a loop of more than 10 miles around much of Sugar Creek CA.

Hikers can see wildlife ranging from white-tailed deer to waterfowl and turtles on trails at Mark Youngdahl CA. This area in the heart of St. Joseph features a two mile trail system. The .8 mile Ridge Trail leads to a picnic shelter and small pond. The Pond Trail winds .7 mile through woods and around the area=s largest pond.

The trail system at Otter Slough CA southwest of Dexter treats hikers to a mix of cypress swamp, open marsh and river sloughs. The Tupelo Trail is a 1.2-mile path that borders Beaver Lake on the south and Otter Lake, an old cypress-tupelo slough, on the north. Halfway along the trail route, you will find a spur trail to a deck that overlooks Otter Lake. Allow 45 minutes to walk the wood chip trail.

Tingler Prairie CA south of West Plains has three trails that offer views of a variety of habitats. The half-mile Wetland Trail circles Tingler Lake, a natural sinkhole pond. The Grassland Trail traverses the area=s rolling uplands for nearly 1.5 miles. Woodland Trail is a 1.2 mile natural surface path that winds along a creek.

Information about CAs with trails is available online at http://www.conservation.state.mo.us/atlas/. If you want trail information in book form, check out AConservation Trails: A Guide to Missouri Department of Conservation Hiking Trails.@ The 91-page booklet easily fits into a day pack and contains maps of hundreds of miles of trail at 40 CAs. The price is $4.

Another publication, Missouri=s Conservation Atlas, lists every CA in the state and includes information about hiking trails. This large-format book costs $16.

Both books are available at conservation nature centers and regional Conservation Department offices. They also can be ordered from The Nature Shop, Missouri Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180, by a toll-free phone call to 877/521-8632 or online at http://www.mdcnatureshop.com/.

- Jim Low -

Spring turkey harvest sets record

Hunters killed 58,421 turkeys during Missouri's youth and regular spring turkey hunting seasons, setting a new spring turkey harvest record. (Missouri Dept. of Conservation photo)

Hunters also tied the record for the safest season.

JEFFERSON CITY - Missouri's spring turkey harvest reached an all-time high this year, with hunters bringing 58,421 turkeys to check stations statewide.

The harvest total is 1,378 more than last year. It includes 3,660 turkeys killed during the two-day spring youth turkey hunting season and 54,761 killed during the 21-day regular spring turkey hunting season.

Texas County led county harvest totals with 1,280 birds checked. In second place was Laclede County, where hunters checked 1,138 turkeys, and Howell County came in third with 1,066.

Regional totals were: northwest, 8,063; northeast, 8,034; Ozark, 8,013; central, 7,973; southwest, 6,731; Kansas City, 6,623; southeast, 5,369; and St. Louis, 3,955.

This year's spring turkey hunting season tied the safety record set in 2000, when the Missouri Department of Conservation recorded four nonfatal, firearms-related turkey hunting accidents and no fatal ones.

Slightly less than one in four turkeys taken by hunters this year was a "jake," as year-old turkeys are called. This is slightly below average, indicating that turkey reproduction was below average in 2002.

Wildlife Research Biologist Jeff Beringer said Missouri's turkey reproduction also was below average in 2001. He said this could mean that hunters will face a tougher challenge next spring, but Missouri still is likely to have the best turkey hunting in the nation.

"Like any wild species, turkeys have good years and bad years," said Beringer. "Even though reproduction was off a little the last two years, it still was well within the variation that is to be expected from year to year. We may have fewer two-year-old gobblers for the next couple of years, but hunting will continue to be among the best in the nation."

Beringer said an off year for turkey hunting in Missouri is better than a good year in most states. Missouri's spring harvest has topped 50,000 every year since 1999. The average turkey harvest in the 43 other states that reported their harvest numbers to the National Wild Turkey Federation in 2002 was 12,760.

- Jim Low -

Free Fishing Days set for June 7-8

The best things in life are free . . . two days a year.

JEFFERSON CITY B The old saying, "The best things in life are free," will never be more true than on June 7 and 8. Those are Free Fishing Days in Missouri, when no one needs a fishing permit in the Show-Me State.

Each year the Missouri Department of Conservation designates two days in June for permit-optional fishing. The goal of Free Fishing Days is to encourage people to sample the state's abundant fishing opportunities.

Show-Me State anglers can fish for stocked rainbow trout in state parks. Those looking for a special challenge or for solitude can pursue wild trout in specially managed areas or wade-fish for wily smallmouth bass in Ozark streams. The Missouri, Mississippi and Osage rivers harbor monster blue and flathead catfish, and largemouth bass are available at big lakes in every corner of the state. Thousands of ponds harbor bluegill and crappie. You can even stalk hefty, torpedo-like muskellunge in a handful of lakes scattered around the state.

"If you think about going fishing sometimes but don't want to bother with permits, this is the perfect opportunity," said Fisheries Division Administrator Norm Stucky. "The whole family, from toddlers to great-grandparents can fish free all weekend. It's hard to imagine a better way to spend time with family. With a little luck you'll even end up with something to eat."

Normal regulations, such as limits on the size and number of fish you can keep, remain in effect during Free Fishing Days. Regulations are outlined in the 2003 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations. The free booklets are available at bait shops and other stores where fishing equipment is sold. Free Fishing Days don't set aside trespass laws, and some private fishing areas still require permits.

Public fishing areas are available in every county in Missouri. To learn about fishing spots near you, visit www.mdc.state.mo.us/fish/prospects/ or call the nearest Conservation Department office. Many state-owned fishing areas have special facilities for anglers with handicaps. For information about handicap-accessible fishing spots, visit www.mdc.state.mo.us/accessibility/.

- Jim Low -

Additional information on Free Fishing Days can also be found at http://www.conservation.state.mo.us/events/freefishdays/

Trout parks invite kids for a special day

Children 15 and younger are invited to take part in free activities at Missouri's four trout parks May 17. (Missouri Dept. of Conservation photo)

Kids' Fishing at Missouri's four trout parks offers fishing, games, crafts, prizes and more.

JEFFERSON CITY--Youngsters will get their own special day for fishing fun May 17 as Missouri's four trout parks celebrate Kids fishing Day. Free daily fishing tags will be available for youths age 15 and younger, and special kids-only fishing holes will be set aside at each park.

The events also include fishing instruction, fishing-related games, crafts and contests and drawings for prizes. Some parks also offer fishing instruction and free hot dogs and soft drinks.

For more information, call: Maramec Spring Trout Park, St. James, 573/265-7801; Roaring River State Park, Cassville, 417/847-2430; Montauk State Park, Licking, 573/548-2585; Bennett Spring State Park, Lebanon, 417/532-4418 or visit the Conservation Department's web site, www.conservation.state.mo.us.

- Jim Low -

Raccoon disease is no danger to humans

Many raccoons are sick, but the disease is canine distemper, not rabies.

JEFFERSON CITY--State officials attribute a rash of sick raccoons to canine distemper and say the disease poses no danger to humans.

Furbearer Biologist Dave Hamilton with the Missouri Department of Conservation said reports of sick raccoons are pouring into animal-control agencies around the state. Raccoons with the disease show some of the same symptoms as animals with rabies.

"When people see weak, confused raccoons out in the middle of the day, showing no fear of humans, it's not surprising that they think the animals are rabid," said Hamilton. "We haven't had any confirmed cases of rabies in Missouri recently, but canine distemper is very common in raccoons right now."

Hamilton said that while canine distemper isn't dangerous to humans, it can kill dogs and cats that have not been vaccinated against the disease.

"The virus is devastating to canines," he said. "Foxes and coyotes get it, but they die so quickly that you hardly ever see a sick one. Some raccoons survive, and those that die take a while to succumb. It's pretty distressing to see a raccoon in such bad shape, but there's nothing you can do for them."

In populated areas, animal control offices can euthanize sick raccoons humanely.

Hamilton said Missouri isn't the only state dealing with an outbreak of canine distemper in wild animals. The entire Midwest is affected. He said the paramyxovirus that causes canine distemper is always present in wild raccoon populations. Outbreaks occur when the number of raccoons is high, increasing the ease of transmission.

Hamilton estimates Missouri's raccoon population at 1 to 2 million. That is about twice as many as Missouri had 20 years ago. He said the upward trend began when global fur prices fell in the early 1980s. Trappers and hunters, who had been taking 250,000 raccoons annually, reduced their take in response to depressed fur prices. In recent years, the annual raccoon harvest has been 70,000 to 100,000.

"Raccoon populations have increased throughout the Midwest for the same reason," said Hamilton, "and so has the distemper outbreak. Many states--even the East--are seeing significant distemper outbreaks this year."

The outbreak will run its course, and raccoon numbers eventually will recover. Hamilton said dog and cat owners should be extra careful to ensure that their pets' vaccinations are up to date.

"Other than that, about the only thing to do is to buy a fur coat and hope the price of fur goes up soon. Without substantial trapping and hunting to put a brake on raccoon numbers, this kind of phenomenon will continue."

- Jim Low -

First two weeks' turkey harvest a record

Spotty weather didn't slow the pace during the second week of Missouri 21-day spring turkey season.

JEFFERSON CITY--With 45,400 turkeys in the bag and a week of spring turkey season still ahead, Missouri hunters are on pace to set a new turkey harvest record.

This year's two-week harvest total is 882 more than were taken during the same period last year. Adding the 3,660 turkeys taken during the two-day youth season in April brings the 2003 spring harvest to date to 49,060. That is up 1,440 from last year.

This year's harvest has included relatively few "jakes," as year-old turkeys are known. This is evidence that last year's turkey hatch was below average.

"We are on track for another strong harvest," said Wildlife Research Biologist Jeff Beringer. "Despite lower jake numbers, our conservative season structure and limits have likely resulted in a buffer of adult birds that enable our hunters to maintain fairly stable statewide harvests."

Besides recreation and food on the table, Missouri's spring turkey season produces a significant boost to the state economy. So far this year, more than 9,000 people from other states have spent more than $1.3 million on nonresident permits. Out-of-state hunters also pump money into Missouri's economy with expenditures for fuel, food, lodging, guides and other goods and services and pay state and local sales tax on their purchases.

Top harvest counties so far are Texas, with 1,077 turkeys checked, Laclede with 974 and Howell with 902. Regional harvest totals were: Ozark, 6,760; Central, 6,570; Northwest, 6,399; Northeast, 6,396; Southwest, 5,593; Kansas City, 5,425, Southeast, 4,747; and St. Louis, 3,510.

The Conservation Department received reports of three firearms-related turkey hunting accidents, none fatal, during the first two weeks of the season. That is down from seven last year and nine in 2001. The safest season on record was 2000, when only two accidents were reported in the first two weeks of spring turkey season.

- Jim Low -

Commission to meet May 28-29 in Jefferson City

JEFFERSON CITY--The Missouri Conservation Commission will meet May 28 and 29 at Conservation Department Headquarters, 2901 W. Truman Blvd. Jefferson City.

The Commission will meet in closed session at 10 a.m. May 28 in the Commission Meeting Room. At 1:30 p.m. the same day, the Commission will hold a public budget session in the Conservation Auditorium. The Commission will reconvene in open session at 8:30 a.m. May 29 in the Commission Meeting Room.

Commission meetings are open to the public. Items to be placed on the agenda for presentations or other business should be sent in writing to: Director, Missouri Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180; fax 573/751-4467. Requests must be received by May 14. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend the meeting can make arrangements by writing to the same address, or by phone at 573/751-4115.

Commission officers are: Howard L. Wood, Bonne Terre, chairman, Stephen C. Bradford, Cape Girardeau, vice-chairman; Cynthia Metcalfe, St. Louis, secretary, and Anita B. Gorman, Kansas City, member.

- Jim Low -

MDC assists with storm damage recovery

MDC staff are helping clear downed trees and other debris from damaged areas.

JEFFERSON CITY-Equipment and staff the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) normally uses to improve habitat and fight fires is being used this week to help residents of tornado-stricken areas clean up and begin rebuilding their communities.

MDC crews have worked around the clock since May 4 providing disaster relief assistance in communities damaged by the series of devastating thunderstorms and tornados that have swept through the state. Dozens of crews from the Conservation Department's Forestry, Wildlife, Protection, Fisheries and Private Land Services Divisions and Design and Development Section are helping with cleanup efforts in Stockton, Camdenton, Carl Junction, Liberty, Pierce City and other Missouri towns that were severely damaged by violent spring storms.

On May 5 Conservation Department Director John Hoskins advised staff to seek opportunities to assist with their local communities' disaster relief efforts. Hoskins also authorized use of any equipment needed to help with tornado damage recovery.

Assistance from the agency's foresters has been essential in areas where downed trees have caused problems for homeowners and emergency medical crews.

"The destruction caused by the storms here is far more than the local emergency management organizations can handle alone," said Camdenton-based MDC Resource Forester Dennis Rhoades. "Fallen trees were blocking roads and preventing ambulances from reaching the injured and downed trees on private property posed threats to the safety of local residents. Our experience makes us the right people to take care of those problems. We have the training and experience needed to quickly and safely clear downed trees without causing further damage."

Rhoades says the 20-member staff in his office along with volunteers from the Conservation Departments' central office in Jefferson City also are assisting with the American Red Cross disaster relief efforts in Camdenton.

"The people affected by these storms are our friends and neighbors," says Rhodes, "so anytime we're notified of need we're going to do what we can to help out."

The Conservation Department staff has been instrumental in recovery efforts throughout storm-damaged areas of the state. The disaster efforts Conservation Department staff has assisted with include:
* removing trees to open Highway 5 south of Camdenton and roadways in Stockton and Pierce City
* clearing and disposal of debris in Carl Junction, Camdenton, Pierce City, and Stockton
* clearing and removing debris from private residences in Liberty, Camdenton and the Martha Lafeet Thompson Nature Sanctuary.

When the Conservation Department completes its disaster relief efforts in local communities, the agency will assess and repair damage to Conservation lands.

- 30 -

Missouri gearing up for gypsy moth trapping

Foresters will begin setting traps for gypsy moths this month. Thousands of these orange, triangular traps create a kind of early-warning system to detect growing infestations of the destructive forest pest. (Missouri Dept. of Conservation photo)

Citizens have an important role in fighting this destructive pest.

JEFFERSON CITY--State and federal agencies are gearing up for another season of gypsy moth trapping. They say citizen awareness is critical to efforts to keep the destructive forest pest out of Missouri.

Gypsy moths were introduced into the United States in Massachusetts in 1869. The idea was to cross-breed them with silk moths. The experiment failed, but the gypsy moth succeeded, escaping captivity and making itself at home in American forests. It has been expanding its range slowly to the south and west ever since, causing serious damage along the way.

Gypsy moth populations now exist in much of the Eastern United States and the Upper Midwest. The pest is expected to reach Missouri eventually, but its arrival can be delayed by careful monitoring and eradication of spot infestations.

Each May, officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Army officials at Fort Leonard Wood and the Missouri National Guard hang thousands of small, triangular, orange cardboard traps on tree trunks around the state. The traps contain a chemical lure that attracts male gypsy moths and a sticky surface to trap them. The lure is a synthetic version of a pheromone produced by female gypsy moths. The traps are not toxic to humans or pets.

Rob Lawrence, a forest entomologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation, said the traps help foresters to detect gypsy moth infestations before they become serious threats to the state's forests. "It's an early-warning system," he said. "We have traps all over the state. If we found several moths in a particular area, it would alert us to a potential problem. When even one moth is found, we intensify trapping in that area to determine if an actual infestation is present and to pinpoint its location. If an infestation is found, we would then work to eradicate it."

So far, Missouri has been fortunate. A gypsy moth outbreak in Arkansas in the early 1990s was contained by a joint effort of the USDA Forest Service and the Arkansas State Plant Board before it spread to Missouri. In 1995, alert landowners in Dent County spotted a gypsy moth egg mass that was hatching and called in forestry and agriculture officials immediately. Quick action nipped that infestation in the bud.

The number of gypsy moths captured in Missouri has been down the last two years. Only six moths were captured statewide in 2001. In 2002, the catch was just four.

All the 2002 captures occurred in the St. Louis metropolitan area. This probably is because St. Louis is a national travel hub for cars, trucks, travel trailers, trains and boats on which gypsy moths could hitchhike.

Last year was the first since 1991 that no moths were captured in Stone or Taney Counties in southwestern Missouri near the popular recreation areas of Branson and Table Rock Lake.

However, the risk of gypsy moths establishing in Missouri grows as infested areas in nearby states expand. Gypsy moth populations continue to increase in Wisconsin, northeastern Illinois and northern Indiana.

Each gypsy moth caterpillar consumes about nine square feet of leaves before changing to an adult. This appetite, along with the insects= tremendous reproductive capacity, can strip trees of all their leaves in heavily infested areas. Trees usually recover from one year's defoliation, but repeated loss of leaves can kill many trees.

Besides loss of forest resources, gypsy moth infestations damage water quality and tourism. Reduced acorn production also could affect deer, turkey and other wildlife populations.

"This is an enormously destructive pest," said Lawrence. "Oak leaves are one of gypsy moth caterpillars' favorite foods, and Missouri forests are dominated by oak trees, so we are very vulnerable. It's important to keep the state gypsy moth-free for as long as possible."

Missourians can help prevent gypsy moths from gaining a foothold here by taking care not to accidentally bring them home from trips out of state. Gypsy moths lay velvety, tan-colored egg masses during July and August. If you travel to the Eastern United States or the Upper Midwest during this period, check for egg masses on vehicles, campers and other items left outdoors before you return home.

Bacillus thuringiensis, commonly called "Bt," is the primary product used to control gypsy moths. Bt is popular among organic gardeners as an environmentally safe way to control moth pests. The product contains a protein produced by native bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis. The protein is toxic to immature stages of butterflies and moths, which swallow the protein while eating. The bacterial protein has no effect on other insects, plants or animals.

Another major control used against gypsy moths uses the insects' own pheromones to disrupt their mating. Tiny flakes carrying the pheromone are broadcast over infested forests by aircraft. The flakes emit a cloud of pheromone, which is undetectable and harmless to humans. With this much pheromone present, male gypsy moths can't find individual pheromone trails emitted by females, stopping them from mating. This technique is being used in more than half of the acres being treated along the advancing gypsy moth front from Wisconsin to Virginia.

If you have questions or concerns about gypsy moth traps, call 573/751-5505 or 573/882-9880 or E-mail Michael_Brown@mail.mda.state.mo.us or foresthealth@mdc.state.mo.us.

- Jim Low -

First-week turkey harvest second-largest on record

Hunters killed more birds in the first week than they did last year.

JEFFERSON CITY - Hunters bagged 28,991 turkeys during the first week of Missouri's 21-day spring turkey season. That is fewer than the first-week harvest record set in 2000, but more than last year.

Texas County led state harvest totals with 690 birds killed, followed by Laclede County with 620 and Howell County with 604. Central Missouri had the largest regional harvest, with 4,360 birds brought to check stations. Other regional harvest figures were: Ozark, 4,341; Northwest, 4,006; Northeast, 3,830; Southwest, 3,775; Kansas City, 3,488; Southeast, 2,974 and St. Louis, 2,217.

Favorable hunting conditions helped hunters bag 30,440 turkeys during the first week of spring turkey season in 2000. They went on to kill 56,841 birds for the full season.

Tougher weather conditions held the 2001 first-week harvest to 28,876 turkeys. However, a strong finish, plus 2,530 gobblers taken during Missouri's first youth-only spring turkey season boosted the 2001 spring turkey harvest to 57,832, a record that still stands.

Last year's first-week harvest was only 27,943, but hunters went on to bag 53,932 turkeys during the three-week season. Combined with the 3,102 turkeys killed during the youth-only spring turkey season, the 2002 spring turkey harvest was 57,034, the second-largest in Missouri history.

The Missouri Department of Conservation received reports of two firearms-related turkey hunting accidents during the first week of hunting. Neither was fatal.

So far, the 2003 spring turkey season has been safer than average. The Conservation Department had logged six firearms-related turkey hunting accidents by this time last year. In 2001, the figure was seven. The only safer first week of spring turkey hunting was in 2000, when no firearms-related accidents were reported. That year, only four accidents were recorded during the entire season. None was fatal.

- Jim Low -