July 2001
Annual gypsy moth trapping under way
Friday, July 27, 2001
State officials continue to watch for signs of an impending infestation of the devastating forest pest.
JEFFERSON CITY -- State and federal officials are setting traps across Missouri's wooded areas, hoping to catch a thief. This is not your typical thief. This villain, the gypsy moth, preys on forests, robbing trees of leaves and the ability to withstand the elements and fend off predators and disease.
"The gypsy moth is of particular concern to agriculture and conservation officials," said Mike Brown, state entomologist with the Missouri Department of Agriculture. "They have a voracious appetite for tree leaves and can denude and weaken trees, especially the oaks that are so prevalent in Missouri. If a population becomes established, they can destroy forest resources, which reduces food supplies for wildlife and causes soil erosion."
Every summer, employees of the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Missouri Department of Conservation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of Missouri venture into Missouri's forests in search of gypsy moths. Since eradication is virtually impossible once the insects become widely established, the annual trapping is a critical prevention program. Brown said the purpose of trapping is to learn if a population exists in the state.
"What we find in the traps will let us know whether we have a problem that requires immediate attention, or whether we're in good shape for another year," Brown said. "This is one of the few times that a trapper hopes to return to an empty trap."
This year, officials will set nearly 12,000 orange, green and brown triangular traps on trees throughout Missouri to count gypsy moths. They conduct intensive trapping in areas with the highest risk for infestation. These high-risk areas include spots where moths have been trapped before state parks and other popular tourist destinations. Transportation hubs, where many highways, railroad tracks and air travel routes converge, also are high-risk areas.
Surveyors check the traps periodically for signs of the pests. In 2000, they found 12 moths in 10 traps, down from 13 in 1999. The St. Louis area continues to be of particular concern because of the high volume of people traveling to or moving into the area, so it will be trapped heavily again this year, as will Stone and Taney counties. These counties are at a higher risk because of the tremendous volume of tourist activity, an abundance of suitable host plants and a past infestation in nearby Arkansas, where officials had to spray to eliminate the pests.
The female gypsy moth has a tremendous reproductive capability and will attach egg masses containing 100 to 1,000 eggs to almost anything. Lawn chairs, barbecue grills, house trailers, campers and cars all are vehicles for dispersing gypsy moth eggs.
Gypsy moths were introduced into the United States in 1869 near Boston, Massachusetts, to crossbreed with silkworms. Since that time, the gypsy moth has been slowly moving west to Michigan, Wisconsin, and other parts of the northeastern United States, where sizable infestations have caused severe forest damage and become nuisances for area residents.
"If a gypsy moth infestation becomes established, their waste will fall like rain, contaminating water supplies, curtailing tourism, and leading to widespread health problems," Brown said. "After witnessing firsthand the problems and damage that infestations have caused in neighboring states, we know that prevention and public education are the best weapons in the fight to keep gypsy moths out of Missouri."
He also cited some simple tips individuals can follow to prevent the spread of gypsy moths:
--Check vehicles, equipment and other belongings when returning from out-of-state trips, especially to Wisconsin, Northern Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and the northeastern United States, which have reported gypsy moth infestations.
--Don't tamper with traps you might come across when visiting Missouri forests, parks and other wooded areas.
--If you find evidence of gypsy moths, contact your local conservation office or call the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Plant Industries Division, at (573) 751-5505.
In addition, the Missouri Department of Conservation has created an information video about the gypsy moth. Copies can be checked out at most public libraries and at Missouri Department of Conservation regional offices and nature centers. You also can check out gypsy moth information at www.conservation.state.mo.us/. key word "gypsy moth."
State fair offers chance to explore Missouri's wildlife
Friday, July 27, 2001
Animals and hand-on activities at MDC pavilion let fair-goers get in touch with the outdoors.
JEFFERSON CITY -- Enjoy the wildlife at the 2001 Missouri State Fair. Live animal displays, challenging games and hands-on activities are among the attractions at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) pavilion August 9 through 19.
The theme of the MDC fair offering is "Get in touch with Missouri's outdoors." Fair-goers will find many opportunities to do that. There will be many hands-on activities and games in the air-conditioned conservation Discovery Room. Creative kids can enjoy nature stamping and coloring. Everyone can learn about butterflies at the butterfly identification display. Participants use a step-by-step guide to identify oversized butterfly models based on the insects' physical characteristics. "Be an Expert Tracker" challenges visitors to identify animals by the tracks the critters leave behind.
A special feature of this year's fair will be a prairie diorama. The display will highlight the plants and animals that make prairies dynamic and rich natural communities.
Visitors can view of many of the state's native animals at the fair. Live mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians also will be on display. Ten 100-gallon tanks will let visitors observe catfish, paddlefish, bass, bluegill, crappie and other fish species that swim in state waterways. The Living Stream aquarium will feature many large fish species.
The state fair is a great place to learn about fish and fishing techniques. The Fishin' Magicians will take fair-goers on magical fishing adventures with performances August 9 and 10.
MDC staff operating the "Show-Me Missouri Fish" mobile aquarium will offer instructions on fishing techniques. The demonstrations provide a unique opportunity to see how baits simulate the movement of prey to attract fish. A fishing simulator will also give you the chance to test your skills at reeling in a lunker.
Conservation Department Public Relations Specialist Ralph Duren will take fair-goers on an audio tour of outdoor Missouri with wildlife call performances Aug. 11 through 15.
Information on outdoor recreational opportunities and resources management will be available at the state fair. Hunter education instructors from around the state will have information on safety afield and opportunities to participate in hunter education courses. Booths staffed by Conservation Department wildlife, fisheries, forestry, natural history and private land services experts will be available to discuss resource management questions and to provide information about MDC services.
Enjoy one-stop shopping for conservation books and videos that can help you explore Missouri of the past and present. The recently revised "Missouri Conservation Atlas" ($16) and "Conservation Trails" ($4) books can guide you to scenic locations for enjoying outdoor recreation. The new "Tallgrass Prairie" video is available for $10. Explore Missouri of the early 1800s with the new "Lewis & Clark: Corps of Discovery in Missouri" and "Missouri 1804: Lewis & Clark Expedition" video. The Lewis and Clark videos may be purchased as a set for $15 or separately for $10 each.
The Conservation Department pavilion is located at the south end of the fairgrounds, across from the Highway Gardens.
- Arleasha Mays -
Commission to meet Aug. 23-24 in Jefferson City
Friday, July 27, 2001
JEFFERSON CITY The Missouri Conservation Commission's next meeting will be Aug. 23 and 24 at the Conservation Department's central office, 2901 W. Truman Blvd., Jefferson City.
The Commission meeting will begin with a closed executive session at 4:30 p.m. Aug. 23. The open portion of the meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 24.
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 Aug. 9. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend the meeting can make arrangements at the same address, or by phone at 573/751-4115.
Commission officers are: Anita B. Gorman, Kansas City, chairman; Howard L. Wood, Bonne Terre, vice chairman. The terms of Conservation Commissioners Ronald J. Stites, Plattsburg, and Randy Herzog, St. Joseph, have expired. They will continue to serve until Gov. Bob Holden appoints replacements. The office of commission secretary will be filled following those appointments.
- Jim Low -
July 20 All Outdoors Correction
Friday, July 27, 2001
The story about the new, youth-only portion of the 2001deer-hunting season in the July 20 issue of All Outdoors contained an error regarding the age of hunters who may purchase Youth Deer and Turkey Hunting Permits.
The story said that the youth permit allows children 15 and under who are not hunter education certified to participate in the deer season. It should have said that hunters age 11 and younger may hunt with a Youth Deer and Turkey permit. Hunters age 12 through 15 can take part in the youth-only portion of the firearms deer season under the same permits as adult hunters.
-Jim Low -
Study shows surprising effects of logging
Friday, July 20, 2001
Early results from a 100-year study of the effects of forest fragmentation on birds shows some surprising trends.
EMINENCE, Mo. -- It was 5 a.m. July 11, and the clefts of Ozark valleys were just becoming visible in the distance, tinted shades of blue and lavender by a haze that carried a tang of hickory smoke. Missouri Department of Conservation Wildlife Research Biologist Rick Clawson's Jeep Cherokee bounced down progressively narrower, rougher gravel tracks, headed for the north end of Peck Ranch Conservation Area in Carter County.
Peck Ranch is 36 square miles of mostly forested wilderness. It's an ideal place for birds that need large timbered tracts to rear their young. Many such birds are "neotropical migrants," songbirds that fly south across the Gulf of Mexico each fall to spend the winter in tropical climes. Neotropical migrants are in trouble, beset by changes or outright losses of habitat at both ends of their migratory path.
As we neared a study site, the birds were waking up and greeting a new day with a symphony of song. With daylight quickly seeping into the forest, Clawson's crew of four young field workers unrolled gossamer nets 12 meters long and 2 meters high. This done, they returned to their vehicles to sip coffee, chat and speculate about what the day would bring. It was their second day of catching and banding birds, and they were keen to see the tiny, rainbow-hued creatures close up, examine and band them and take their pictures.
After a half-hour wait, they paired off and headed different directions to check the 12 nets. The first catch of the day was a yellow-breasted chat that fought its rescuer with bill, claw and fluttering wings. The feisty bird's struggle complicated the already difficult task of untangling him.
"It's okay," soothed Sarah Grote, Joplin. The tall, pony-tailed field biologist is a recent graduate of Central Methodist University in Fayette. Headed for veterinary school next fall, she is in her second summer working for Clawson on the Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP). "Ow! Okay, you can bite me if you just hold still. Gee, you'd think I was killing you."
Forty-five minutes later, the floor inside the back of the Jeep was alive with cloth sacks and paper bags that rattled and hopped like Mexican jumping beans. One by one, the birds were carefully extracted and identified by species, age and sex. Each was fitted with color-coded leg bands to help identify them at a distance later and then released.
The day's catch is about 40 birds, added to nearly 9,000 other captures in MOFEP's first 10 years. This facet of MOFEP aims to discover how different types of forest management affect birds. Of particular concern are species that nest only inside mature forests.
Some evidence from past studies has suggested that forest interior nesters can't or won't nest in forests that are broken up into pieces by timber harvesting. This "forest fragmentation" is thought to make interior-nesting species more vulnerable to cowbirds, which lay their eggs in other birds' nests. Besides this "nest parasitism," some scientists worry that cutting trees might expose forest interior birds to predators.
Learning how serious these problems are isn't simple in a setting as complex and dynamic as a forest. Controlling variables is more difficult in a forest than in a laboratory. Forests change over time. A tract of oak-hickory forest that is clear-cut today becomes a thicket in five years. In 20 years it is a young forest, and in 80 years it is mature forest again. Discovering how forests change in response to different management schemes and how wildlife responds to such changes over time is what MOFEP is about.
For the most part, previous forest research has provided snapshots of isolated aspects of small tracts of forest at certain moments in time. MOFEP is designed to produce a kind of motion picture of an entire forest landscape during a 100-year period.
MOFEP is tracking the types and number of trees, grasses and other plants before and after timber harvests. Production of nuts, berries and other fruits important food items for wildlife is monitored, as are birds, reptiles, amphibians and small mammals. Insects, a critical and little understood part of a healthy forest, are part of the study, too. Researchers are gathering information about insects in the forest canopy and the forest floor. Changes in soil and climatic conditions round out the study.
MOFEP is being conducted on 9,000 acres of Conservation Department land comprising nine compartments. The study began in 1991, when crews began gathering baseline data. They counted plants and animals and measured physical characteristics of the nine compartments to provide a basis for comparison as the study progresses.
The next phase of the study began in 1996. On three compartments, loggers harvested all the trees from areas as large as 20 acres. These clearcuts comprised one-tenth of each compartment's total acreage. This process will be repeated on another 10 percent of each of the three compartments' acreage once every 10 years. When the study reaches its conclusion in 2101, all the land in three compartments will have been clear-cut once. By then, these compartments will be mosaics of small tracts where the forest ranges from 100 years old to clear-cuts just beginning to regrow. This type of forest management is called "even-age," because all the trees in a given harvest area are the same age.
Another three compartments will have harvests, also at 10-year intervals. However, trees won't be clear-cut there. Instead, trees will be harvested individually or in small groups. This type of harvest is called "uneven-age," because trees of all ages can be found growing together.
The remaining three compartments won't be cut at all. They will provide a control area for comparison to the harvested tracts and shed light on how the number and type of plants and animals have been affected by tree cutting.
That kind of information already is beginning to accumulate, and the trends aren't always what was expected. For instance, MOFEP data show that sightings of forest interior-nesting birds decreased the first year after clearcutting, as expected. Not expected was the fact that sightings of these birds also fell sharply in surrounding mature forest, including compartments where no timber harvest took place. The decrease in bird sightings may be due to the disturbance caused by human activity.
More interesting is what happened to bird sightings two to four years after logging. Sightings of one forest-interior species, the wood thrush, increased on even-age sites compared to the number seen there when it was tall timber.
Another forest-interior species, the Kentucky warbler, was not common in the study area before timber harvests, but its numbers have increased on both even- and uneven-aged sites since the first round of timber harvests. The number of worm-eating warblers initially declined in both clear-cuts and control sites, but have rebounded to nearly their pre clear-cut numbers.
Of the interior-nesting species, only ovenbirds declined more on harvested sites than on nonharvested ones. Acadian flycatchers are the only interior-nesting species that has declined and remained depressed in all three compartments following timber harvests.
Not surprisingly, three out of four bird species that like forest openings have benefitted from the timber harvests. Yellow-breasted chats increased most in clear-cuts, while indigo buntings responded dramatically in both even- and uneven-age harvest areas. Prairie warblers increased only in areas of even-age management. Hooded warblers, practically nonexistent on the study areas before treatment, have moved into cuts of both kinds.
The feared increase in nest parasitism by cowbirds never materialized, and exposure to predators seems not to be the problem it was expected to be. In fact, the dense vegetation now clogging clear-cut tracts is attracting more interior-nesting birds than expected. The birds aren't using these areas for nesting as they did before they were clear-cut, however.
Clear-cut areas now are 10 to 20 feet deep in sprouting trees, blackberry brambles, sassafras seedlings and wild grape vines. Clawson calls it "the thickest, thorniest, most vicious cover you can imagine."
"The forest species still use uncut areas with big trees for nesting," said Clawson, "but when their eggs hatch, they bring their broods to the clear-cuts to forage for insects. We are seeing them there more than we expected."
Early reports of MOFEP data say that it is too early to draw firm conclusions, but "it appears that the treatments have not caused the dire consequences that might have been predicted 10 years ago. The forest interior species that were of concern when the study was initiated remain dominant and important parts of the species composition of the study sites. Reproductive success . . . did not decline. Brood parasitism did not increase."
"It's going to get really interesting in 50 years as we develop a good mosaic of different age tracts in the study area," said Clawson. "Then we will really begin to get a better understanding of how clearcutting affects various bird species compared to selective cutting or no timber harvests. This study has the potential to shed light on the contentious discussion about how we should manage our forests."
- Jim Low -
Tom Baskett joins Conservation Hall of Fame
Friday, July 20, 2001
A 50-year career as a wildlife researcher and college professor earned him a place among Missouri's conservation luminaries.
JEFFERSON CITY -- A career rife with accomplishments in conservation education and research have earned the late professor Thomas S. Baskett a place in the Missouri Conservation Hall of Fame. The honor is awarded posthumously to those who have made substantial and lasting contributions to the state's fisheries, forestry and wildlife conservation efforts.
For more than 50 years Baskett was an exceptional force in the conservation movement in Missouri and the nation. He worked for 32 years for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as leader of the Missouri Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit at University of Missouri-Columbia. Baskett built that program into one of the most successful cooperative wildlife research programs in the nation while also serving as a professor of wildlife science. He was a leader in establishing guidelines to control pesticide use in the United State. The landmark decision to restrict the use of DDT was achieved during Baskett's tenure.
Students best remember Baskett as a mentor who set high standards of performance and professionalism in conservation research and writing. He authored more than 80 scientific papers and several books, and he guided students in the publication of 40 papers advancing the science of wildlife management.
Baskett worked tirelessly for many conservation organizations. Those efforts include service on the editorial review board of The Journal of Wildlife Management and as president of the Wildlife Society in 1971.
The Chevron Conservation Award, the oldest privately sponsored recognition program honoring outstanding individuals who have served as environmental role models, is among the many awards Baskett has received. He was honored with the1985 Master Conservationist by the Missouri Conservation Commission and he was recipient of the Wildlife Society's Aldo Leopold Memorial Award for distinguished service in wildlife conservation.
- Arleasha Mays -
Youths get their own time in the deer woods
Friday, July 20, 2001
Hunters 15 and younger will have a chance to pursue whitetails without the pressure and competition of November hunts.
JEFFERSON CITY -- Young hunters will have the deer woods all to themselves for a couple of days this fall during a new youth-only portion of the firearms deer season.
The Missouri Department of Conservation has set aside two days for Missouri residents ages 15 and younger. The goal is to let youngsters experience deer hunting without the pressures of the November portion of the season.
The youth-only portion will take place Oct. 27 and 28. The other portions of the firearms season are Nov. 10-20 (any legal method), Dec. 1 through 9 (muzzleloader only) and Jan. 5 through 8 (any legal method) in units 1 through 17, 20, 22, 23, 24, 58 and 59.
Youngsters may pursue deer with a valid Youth Deer & Turkey Hunting Permit or a valid Resident Firearms Deer, Any-Deer Permit, or Bonus Deer hunting permit. The youth permit allows children 11 and under who are not hunter-education certified to participate in the deer season, as long as they hunt in the immediate presence of a properly licensed adult who is hunter education certified. Hunter education certification is required for those 11 and older who are using the resident deer, any-deer or bonus deer permits (and for all hunters born on or after Jan. 1, 1967).
The bag limit is one deer, total, for the two youth-only days. Youngsters may take a deer using any method outlined in the Wildlife Code of Missouri. Shooting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. While afield, deer hunters must wear a hunter orange hat along with a hunter orange jacket, shirt or vest.
Full details on regulations for the youth-only portion of the firearms season are listed in the 2001 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Information booklet. The booklets are available free-of charge at Conservation Department offices and wherever permits are sold.
- Arleasha Mays -
July 6 All Outdoors Correction
Friday, July 20, 2001
The cost given for Illinois nonresident firearms deer hunting permits in the July 6 issue of All Outdoors was incorrect. The story titled "Nonresident deer, turkey hunting permit fees to increase" said the permits cost "$105.50 in Illinois (plus $100 for a hunting permit and $5.50 for a habitat stamp.)" It should have said $100 (plus $5.50 for a habitat stamp).
- Jim Low -
Most Missouri fish are safe for most people to eat
Friday, July 13, 2001
The good news in a fish advisory issued by public health officials is that most people can safely eat as much Missouri fish as they want.
JEFFERSON CITY -- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has advice for anglers who are concerned about the 2001 Fish Consumption Advisory released today by the Missouri Department of Health (DOH).
"Fish is an excellent and healthy food source," said Randy Herzog, Conservation Commission Chairman. "The advisory addresses concern only for a sensitive population who are particularly vulnerable to concentrated levels of mercury. Those not in the sensitive population can safely consume largemouth bass."
The advisory recommends that women who are pregnant, who may become pregnant, nursing mothers and children 12 years of age or younger should not eat largemouth bass more than 12 inches in length. "Anglers can practice catch-and-release fishing or may choose to eat smaller fish," said Herzog. "Other alternatives include focusing on sunfish, channel catfish, carp and suckers as a food source."
The MDC has been monitoring levels of mercury in Missouri's fish population since 1985 and shares data with the Missouri departments of Health and Natural Resources. "Mercury concentrations appear not to have changed since monitoring began," said MDC's Karen Bataille. "The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recently adopted a new standard for mercury concentrations in fish, and Missouri will follow this standard to ensure the safety of the sensitive population."
The DOH has removed its advisory against consuming catfish, carp, buffalo, drum, suckers and paddlefish due to chlordane contamination. These fish are again safe to eat in any amount throughout Missouri. The MDC will continue monitoring levels of mercury, chlordane and other contaminants in largemouth bass and other species of fish.
"We're pleased that the former advisory against consumption of fish contaminated by chlordane has been suspended. Missouri's fish population is in good health and provides plentiful recreational opportunities," said MDC Director Jerry Conley. "Monitoring efforts and evaluations based on collaboration between the departments of Conservation, Health and Natural Resources safeguard the health and safety of our citizens and ensure continued success in management of Missouri's abundant fish population."
- Stephanie Ramsey -
Missouri fish consumption advisory Q and A
Friday, July 13, 2001
Q. Can I safely eat largemouth bass more than 12 inches in length?
A. Anyone not in the sensitive population can safely consume the fish. The sensitive population includes children 12 years of age or younger, nursing mothers and women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant.
Q. What is mercury?
A. Mercury is a naturally occurring toxic trace element found in air, water, soil and rocks. Mercury is a silvery colored liquid and a member of a group of elements know as heavy metals. It is used in household and commercial products and industrial processes. Mercury is converted in the environment by microorganisms into the organic form, methylmercury, which is highly toxic.
Q. Why is eating some fish, such as largemouth bass, a problem?
A. Methylmercury bioaccumulates in the muscles of fish (not the fat). It becomes progressively more concentrated as it moves up the food chain and can pose a health risk to humans and wildlife that consume large quantities of mercury-contaminated fish. Because mercury does not accumulate in the fat, trimming the fat or grilling will not reduce mercury levels in food.
Q. What are the health risks associated with mercury?
A. Mercury poisoning can damage the central nervous system, kidneys and liver in humans and impair child development.
Q. How are people exposed to methylmercury?
A. The primary environmental route of exposure to methylmercury is from eating contaminated fish.
Q. Is any segment of the population more at risk from exposure to methylmercury?
A. Unborn and young children are most at risk to methylmercury poisoning. Therefore, pregnant women, women who may become pregnant, nursing mothers, and children 12 years of age and younger should follow Missouri's fish consumption advisory. Unborn babies, infants, and young children are most at risk because their nervous systems are developing.
Q. What are the primary sources of the mercury that enters the environment?
A. Mercury emissions occur from both natural and man-made sources. Man-made sources account for the majority of all emissions. The following represent mercury sources that can be controlled: Coal and oil burning, commercial/industrial boilers, lead smelting, cement and lime kilns, crematories, dental amalgam preparation and disposal, dwelling demolition (thermostats and switches), electrical product manufacturing and disposal (switches, fluorescent lights, some headlights and batteries), evaporation of mercury from landfills, garbage incinerators, hazardous waste incinerators, industrial wastewater discharge, laboratories, medical waste incinerators, residential boilers, wastewater treatment plants and wood burning. Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), other states and Missouri are working to reduce mercury pollution, methylmercury is very persistent, and it will be a several years before methylmercury levels in fish and the environment are reduced.
Q. Should I stop eating fish?
A. Don't stop eating fish. Fish is a good source of protein and is low in saturated fat. Most people have no reason to limit their fish consumption. Because methylmercury bioaccumalates in the food chain, higher predators such as bass contain higher levels of mercury.
Smaller fish have lower levels of contamination than larger fish of the same species. Eat the smaller legal fish and release big fish to fight another day. Select fish such as bluegill, other sunfish and channel catfish, which are lower on the food chain and therefore contain lower levels of methylmercury.
Again, the developing nervous system of a baby or a young child is more sensitive to methylmercury's harmful effects than the more fully developed nervous system of an older child or adult. Missourians should heed warnings in the 2001 Missouri Fish Consumption Advisory.
Q. Do other states have fish consumption advisories for mercury?
A. Yes, 41 other states have issued advisories for mercury. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued advisories on mercury in fish bought from stores and restaurants, including ocean and coastal fish, as well as other types of commercial fish. FDA advises that women who are pregnant or could become pregnant, nursing mothers and young children not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel or tilefish.
Q. Why did Missouri issue an advisory for mercury now?
A. There has been considerable discussion and concern about the level of exposure to methylmercury that may have negative health effects on humans during a lifetime. In 1999, Congress directed the EPA to contract with the National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academy of Sciences to evaluate the available data on the health effects of methylmercury. NRC published their report, Toxicological Effects of Methylmercury, in 2000. The EPA agreed with their conclusions and developed the methylmercury criterion of 0.3 ppm (300 ppb) in fish tissue that should not be exceeded to protect the health of consumers of noncommercial freshwater fish. Because of this study and the EPA's recommendation, the Missouri Department of Health has adopted these guidelines for Missouri's Fish Consumption Advisory.
Q. Should I be concerned about other top predator fish species?
A. Too little information is available about other predator fish to issue advice on their consumption. We do know that larger fish contain higher concentrations of methylmercury, so keep and eat smaller fish and release large fish to fight another day. The Missouri Department of Conservation will be sampling and analyzing other predator species to determine concentration of methylmercury in their flesh. This information will be used to update fish advisories if necessary.
Q. Why is the Missouri Department of Health suspending the advisory against consuming catfish, carp, buffalo, drum, suckers and paddlefish?
A. The chemical that caused the most contamination in the past, chlordane, was ordered to be removed from the market by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1988. Chlordane, a termite pesticide, would enter the fatty tissues of fish. Levels of chlordane have dropped significantly in our fish population, making these fish healthy to eat in any amount. The MDC is continuing to monitor the fish population for manmade and natural substances that may prove harmful.
Q. Where can I get more information?
A. For more information on freshwater fish consumption advisories or to obtain Fact Sheets published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, visit http://www.epa.gov/OST/fish or contact Jeffrey Bigler, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Science and Technology, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (4305), Washington, DC 20460.
For more information regarding health issues, contact the Missouri Department of Health, http://www.health.state.mo.us or Gale Carlson at 1-800-392-7245.
For more information regarding levels of mercury and contaminants in Missouri's waterways, visit the Missouri Department of Natural Resources website, http://www.dnr.state.mo.us. or Ed Knight at 1-800-361-4827.
For more information regarding Missouri's fish populations and recreational activities, visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website, http://www.conservation.state.mo.us or call Karen Bataille at 573-882-9880, ext. 3215.
- Stephanie Ramsey -
Missouri alligator gar record established
Friday, July 13, 2001
Though not classified as endangered, the toothy leviathan is a rarity here.
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- Part of the appeal of fishing is never knowing exactly what's going to wind up on the end of your line. That was especially true for bow fisherman David Smith, who recently landed a 115-pound, 2-ounce alligator gar. The fish is the first of its species ever documented in Missouri's state fishing records program.
Smith was bow fishing with friend and Perry County Conservation Agent Eric Abbott on the Headwater Diversion Channel in Cape Girardeau County when he spied the big fish basking in the sun just beneath the water's surface. He checked his fishing tackle, a 56-pound recurve bow fitted with a special fishing reel. He was ready . . . but not for what happened next.
Smith and Abbott were expecting to find more common and smaller fish than alligator gar. They were hoping for a long-nosed gar big enough to break the state record of 34 pounds, 7 ounces.
"I thought it was two or three long-nosed gar laying side by side," said Smith. "I still thought so when I hit it. I yelled for Eric to get everything ready, I had the new state-record on." He was right, but not the way he figured.
The bony, torpedo-shaped fish made several strong runs, pulling Smith's 16-foot aluminum bass boat around like a cork. The reel on his bow screamed as the big fish ripped 200-pound-test line off the spool.
Abbott said he realized it had to be an alligator gar when the fish made a porpoise-like jump. It's enormous size became apparent when Smith got the 76-inch fish alongside the boat 15 or 20 minutes later. "It was practically half as long as the boat," he recalls with wonder.
Then came the hard part hoisting 115 pounds of slippery, toothy, steel-muscled fish into a bass boat. Abbott had a wire noose that he used to boat smaller fish, but he had difficulty getting the noose to stay on the huge alligator gar's bony snout. Twice the fish slipped the noose by thrashing and snapping its wicked jaws. On the fourth try, Abbott got the noose behind the monster fish's gill plates.
"I finally got it in, and I've got the scars to prove it," said Abbott. "He was still snapping." Long after it was subdued, the fish continued to make growling noises. Once the fish was in the boat, its wide, toothy snout also made it obvious they had an alligator gar. Missouri's other gar species have narrow snouts.
The alligator gar is one of four species of gar found in Missouri. Although they once ranged upstream into the Missouri and Osage Rivers, alligator gar were never as common here as they were in the heart of their range in the Mississippi River and its tributaries from Arkansas south to the Gulf of Mexico. For this reason, it isn't formally classified as rare or endangered in Missouri, though it is extremely uncommon here.
Abbott speculates that extended high water on the Mississippi River this year might have encouraged the big alligator gar to migrate so far upstream. "I hate to see the biggest of its species dead," said Abbott. "But at least we know they're up here."
Alligator gar measuring more than 10 feet long and weighing more than 300 pounds have been reported in other states.
- Jim Low -
Missourians asked to watch for unusual doves
Friday, July 06, 2001
Disease could affect mourning dove populations.
JEFFERSON CITY -- Doves that act different from those normally found in Missouri continue to be of interest to the Missouri Department of Conservation. If you see one, Wildlife Research Biologist John Schulz would like to know.
Schulz is conducting a multi-year study of how a disease called trichomoniasis may affect mourning dove populations in Missouri. The disease, which often kills its victims, is caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas gallinae. The one-celled parasites create sores in birds' mouths and throats, making it difficult for them to swallow or drink.
The disease spreads most readily when birds are crowded together. Dry conditions force birds to gather around scarce water sources, increasing transmission. Hot summer weather creates conditions favorable for the parasite's growth.
The severity of a trichomonas infection depends on the bird's susceptibility and on the strain of the disease attacking the animal. Trichomonas gallinae can vary in virulence from year to year, much like the flu. In years when a particularly harmful strain crops up, outbreaks can be widespread and kill large numbers of birds.
The dove disease study will continue through next year. He asks that Missourians watch for doves with symptoms of trichomoniasis. "Infected doves may have difficulty flying, act listless and have swollen necks," says Schulz. "Anyone who sees mourning doves that fit this description should call me."
Schulz says he hopes to develop techniques for monitoring the presence and severity of trichomoniasis outbreaks. Such techniques would enable the Conservation Department to make better predictions about how dove numbers will be affected by the disease under different environmental conditions. If you find birds with trichomoniasis symptoms, call Schulz at 573/882-9880, ext. 3218.
- Jim Low -
Conservation Commission halts elk restoration effort
Friday, July 06, 2001
Veterinary and wildlife health concerns prompted the decision.
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -- There will be no elk reintroduction in Missouri in the foreseeable future. The Missouri Conservation Commission has suspended efforts to reintroduce elk to the state.
The Commission voted unanimously at its meeting June 29 not to restore elk to Missouri. The action was intended to safeguard the state's wildlife from diseases. Elk in some western states are infected with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), an illness that strikes the brains of elk and deer. There are no tests that can detect CWD in live animals and no cure for the disease, which has never been found in Missouri.
"An outbreak of chronic wasting disease could cause great harm to the deer herd, so it is imperative we do all we can to prevent its spread into the state," says Conservation Commission Chairman Randy Herzog. "Although small, there is a chance infected elk that show no symptoms of the disease could enter the state through a restoration project. We feel it would be unwise to take that risk."
The Missouri Department of Agriculture gave the Commission a brief presentation on chronic wasting disease and later applauded the Commission decision to halt elk reintroduction. "The Conservation Commission acted responsibly and with appropriate caution," said Lowell Mohler, Agriculture Director. "We need to closely scrutinize the importation of all animals into Missouri for disease implications."
CWD belongs to a group of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), or brain-wasting diseases. Other forms of TSEs are mad cow disease, scrapie in sheep and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, which humans can contract. TSEs cause a progressive, fatal degeneration of the brain. The diseases are believed to result from mutated proteins called prions. There is no known link between CWD and the other TSEs, nor is there evidence that CWD can be naturally transmitted to humans or livestock.
State veterinarian John Hunt commended the Conservation Commission's decision. "There are too many unknowns about Chronic Wasting Disease at this time," said Hunt. "We shouldn't be overly alarmed because there's no proof it can be transmitted to other species besides cervids. But certainly the farmed elk business, big game preserves and, of course, our wild white-tailed deer population would be at risk if they're exposed to Chronic Wasting Disease."
Scientists are unsure of how CWD is transmitted. Evidence suggests that infected deer and elk may pass the disease through animal-to-animal contact or by contaminating food or water sources with saliva or waste.
The symptoms of CWD include progressive weight loss, excessive salivation, drooping ears and behavior changes such as listlessness or loss of an animal's natural fear of humans. Because those symptoms are typical of several diseases, animals displaying them must be tested to determine the cause of illness.
There is no evidence of CWD in Missouri, but its presence in wild deer and elk in some western states has conservation officials taking precautions. Missouri Department of Conservation Department (MDC) biologists are monitoring the deer herd for CWD. The MDC also will conduct random testing of deer harvested during the 2001 deer hunting season.
The surrounding states of Arkansas, Kentucky and Tennessee have reintroduced wild elk in recent years. Ollie Torgerson, head of the Conservation Department's wildlife division, says Missouri won't follow suit until more is known about Chronic Wasting Disease. "We'll be monitoring how other states are handling the importation of animals. We have to protect our native white-tailed deer herd, which is a big part of outdoor recreation in Missouri. Bringing in deer or elk from other states could pose an unacceptable risk."
The MDC began an Elk Reintroduction Feasibility Study in 1999. It concluded that there was sufficient habitat in the state to support a wild elk population. In December 2000, the Commission heard the results of the feasibility study, but voted not to proceed with reintroduction. They asked staff to develop a reintroduction plan to address concerns about disease and property damage. In February 2001, the commission adopted a reintroduction scenario that included forming a citizen advisory committee. Today's decision suspends all activity regarding elk reintroduction.
The departments of Conservation and Agriculture will jointly address potential problems of privately owned captive deer and elk herds, of which there are approximately 75 in the state.
- Arleasha Mays -
Chronic wasting disease facts
Friday, July 06, 2001
JEFFERSON CITY -- To protect the deer herd from possible expose to chronic wasting disease the Missouri Conservation Commission has halted elk reintroduction efforts in the state. Following are answers to commonly asked questions about chronic wasting disease and its potential effect on Missouri.
Q: What is Chronic Wasting Disease?
A: Chronic Wasting Disease, or CWD, belongs to a group of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). TSEs cause a fatal degeneration of the brain and include, in addition to CWD in deer and elk, scrapie in sheep, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mad cow disease) in cattle, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans. Although all of these diseases are TSEs and are believed to be caused by a pathogen called a prion, the prions causing each disease differ. For example, the prion that causes mad cow disease is different from the prion that causes CWD.
Q: Where is CWD found?
A: As of April 2001, CWD has not been reported in Missouri. It has been identified in wild deer and elk in the area where Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska join and appears to be spreading slowly. In that area of Colorado and Wyoming, less than 5percent of the deer and less than 1percent of the elk are infected with CWD. Recently, one wild mule deer in northwestern Saskatchewan, Canada was diagnosed with CWD. CWD has also been found in captive elk herds in Montana, Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Saskatchewan.
Q: What are the symptoms of CWD?
A: Deer or elk with CWD show behavioral changes, progressive weight loss, excessive salivation and increased drinking and urination, and they often develop pneumonia. CWD is always fatal to the infected animal.
Q: How is CWD diagnosed?
A: CWD can tentatively be diagnosed by its symptoms. However, it can only be confirmed by laboratory examination of brain tissue from the affected animal. At present there is no diagnostic test available to detect CWD in live animals.
Q: How is CWD transmitted?
A: Scientists do not really know. However, evidence suggests that infected deer or elk may transmit the disease through animal-to-animal contact or by contaminating feed or water sources with saliva, urine or feces. CWD may be more likely to occur where deer or elk are numerous or gather at artificial feeding or watering sites.
Q: Can livestock get CWD from infected deer or elk?
A: At present there is no evidence that CWD can be naturally transmitted from infected deer or elk to sheep or cattle. Regardless, several studies are currently underway to examine this question further.
Q: Can people get CWD from infected deer or elk?
A: The World Health Organization, the TSE Advisory Committee of the Food and Drug Administration, and public health officials have reviewed the available scientific information and concluded that at present there is no evidence that CWD in deer or elk can be transmitted to humans. Concern arose in 1997 and 1998 when spontaneous Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease occurred in three young U.S. adults who had regularly eaten venison. This led to speculation that CWD could be spread from deer or elk to humans. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia reviewed the clinical records and pathological studies of all three cases and found no link to CWD.
Q: What is being done about CWD in Missouri?
A: Again, CWD has not been reported in Missouri. To guard against the possible occurrence and spread of CWD, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Conservation are monitoring the state's wild deer and captive elk and deer for any signs of CWD. The Department of Conservation will randomly test deer harvested during the 2001 deer hunting season, and the Department of Agriculture is developing a voluntary CWD certification program for captive elk breeders.
Missourians who travel west and harvest deer or elk in north-central Colorado or southeastern Wyoming should use caution when disposing of the carcass. If possible, process the deer or elk where it was taken. However, if the carcass is brought to Missouri, take care to bury or otherwise dispose of it so that contact with wild deer will not occur.
Q: Should hunters take precautions in handling deer or deer meat?
A: Again, there is no evidence that CWD affects humans. However, even though it is safe to eat deer meat, hunters can take some common-sense precautions, such as not harvesting deer that appear sick or otherwise abnormal, wearing rubber gloves while field dressing and processing deer, and avoiding handling or eating deer brain, spinal cord, spleen or lymph nodes.
For more information contact:
Missouri Department of Agriculture
Division of Animal Health
1616 Missouri Boulevard
Jefferson City, MO 65101
573/751-3377
The Missouri Department of Conservation
Conservation Research Center
1110 S. College Avenue
Columbia, MO 65201
573/882-9880
The Missouri Department of Health
Section of Communicable Disease Control and Veterinary Public Health
930 Wildwood Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65109
573/751-6113
Nonresident deer, turkey hunting permit prices to increase
Friday, July 06, 2001
A $20 per permit increase will bring fees closer to those of neighboring states.
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -- Out-of-state hunters will pay more for Missouri deer and turkey hunting permits next year. The Missouri Conservation Commission voted for the increases at its monthly meeting June 29 in St. Joseph.
The commission approved a $20 increase for Nonresident Firearms Deer Hunting Permits (from $125 to $145), Nonresident Archer's Deer Hunting Permits (from $100 to $120) and Nonresident Managed Deer Hunting Permits (from $125 to $145). The Commission also added $20 to the cost of Nonresident Spring Turkey Hunting Permits (from $125 to $145) and Nonresident Fall Turkey Hunting Permits (from $75 to $95).
The price of youth deer and turkey hunting permits, which are available to residents and nonresidents, will stay the same. Nonresident bonus deer hunting permits also will remain at their current prices.
"Missouri boasts some of the best deer and turkey hunting in the United States," said Randy Herzog, Conservation Commission Chairman. "The Conservation Department is working to ensure that these populations of wildlife continue to be an abundant and exciting source of recreation for Missouri citizens and visitors to our state."
"Hunting, fishing and trapping have traditionally been important factors in the Conservation Department's management decisions," said Director Jerry Conley. "We have an abiding commitment to the people who enjoy those activities. Maintaining their level of contribution to our funding is one way of maintaining their prominence on the conservation scene."
Conley noted that the prices of Missouri deer and turkey permits currently are lower than the average of prices in neighboring states and will still be average to below average after price increases go into effect next year. Furthermore, he said, the quality of Missouri's deer and turkey hunting is among the best in the nation.
Nonresident firearms deer permits cost $116 in Kentucky (plus $95 for a hunting permit), $205.50 in Kansas, $105.50 in Illinois (plus $100 for a hunting permit and $5.50 for a habitat stamp), $201 in Oklahoma, $150 in Nebraska (plus $10 for a habitat stamp), $156 in Tennessee and $150.50 in Iowa (plus a $5.50 habitat stamp). Arkansas does not sell a separate nonresident deer hunting permit. Its $225 nonresident hunting permit covers all hunting and trapping.
Prices for nonresident archery deer permits are comparable to those for firearms deer permits. The cost of nonresident spring or fall turkey hunting privileges in neighboring states ranges from $225 in Arkansas to $66 in Nebraska.
Conservation Commission Chairman Randy Herzog said increased costs of doing business and expanded conservation efforts require the increases to continue the management of Missouri's wildlife. "The additional revenue for the department will continue such efforts as outreach and education, maintenance of public lands, and development of additional public use facilities," said Herzog.
Another recent initiative is the Private Land Services Division created to assist landowners in enhancing and maintaining Missouri habitat and sound conservation practices. "Over 90 percent of Missouri's land is privately owned," said George Seek, administrator of the Private Land Services Division. "In light of that fact, it's clear that conservation will succeed or fail on private land. We are trying to make sure that private landowners have what they need to succeed."
"Hunting in Missouri is an excellent value," said Conley. "Even with the increases, we are proud that our permits will be significantly less expensive than surrounding states'. We are striving to continue our history of success in the management of game and other wildlife to ensure recreational enjoyment for hunters, trappers, hikers, anglers and all of the citizens of Missouri."
- Jim Low -
Nonresident Deer and Turkey Hunting Permit Prices
Permit type 2001 2002
Non-Resident Firearms Deer Hunting $125 $145
Non-Resident Managed Deer Hunting $125 $145
Non-Resident Archer's Hunting $100 $120
Non-Resident Turkey Hunting (Spring $125 $145
Non-Resident Turkey Hunting (Fall) $ 75 $ 95
