FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

FIRST YEAR FREELANCING

Lessons learned | p. 14

Wildlife photography safety, SEO for writers, & OWAA Member deals AND MORE. Outdoor Writers Association of America FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Our mission: improve the professional skills of our members, set Paddling away in the deep end the highest ethical and communications standards, encourage FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 | VOL. 80, NO. 8 n my last note, I mentioned a few Expand benefits – Already I’ve public enjoyment things that I’d be doing as I ‘dove brought a few new opportunities to and conservation of Iinto the deep end’ of getting up to the table for our membership. We natural resources and speed on all things OWAA. While I’m now have a partnership where OWAA mentor the next gen- just starting to wrap my mind around members can apply for press trips eration of professional CONTENTS all our programs, initiatives, history with member ranches of the Dude outdoor communicators. and impassioned membership, I want- Ranch Association, discounted access ed to update you on progress thus far, to a few conferences for outdoor/ad- NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS as I start to paddle around: venture trade, a new store filled with 2814 Brooks St., Box 442 OWAA-branded merchandise and the Missoula, MT 59801 Listen & learn – I said I’d have ‘pro’ deals via the IPA Collective. 406-728-7434, Fax: 406-728-7445 many conversations with members, [email protected], owaa.org the Board and other OWAA stake- Build partnerships – Partnerships STAFF holders. Thus far, I’ve interviewed take time. I’m continually working Executive Director: Chez Chesak (almost) every member of the Board to secure mutually-beneficial part- Publications Editor: Suzanne Downing of Directors and had great and very nerships that will provide you with Designer: Betsy Alvarez valuable conversations with external new data about outdoor consumers, PRESIDENT partners and members, including ones enhanced OWAA communications to Tim Mead, North Carolina who have been engaged for decades the trade and consumer outlets and OFFICERS and those that just recently joined. access to more trade events. 1st Vice President: Pat Wray, Oregon 6 12 16 2nd Vice President: Christine Peterson, Plan – I’d noted that I’m a consum- Build membership – This one is Wyoming mate planner. I’m now developing a going to take more time. While I'm Secretary: Tom Wharton, Utah p.5 | GOING MIRRORLESS p.16 | EXPLORING VERMONT ALSO IN THIS ISSUE plan for 2020. While I’m still in the 'chomping at the bit' to expand and Treasurer: Tom Sadler, Virginia By Paul Queneau By Gary Moore PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE p.4 note-taking phase, some things are grow our membership, corral new BOARD MEMBERS becoming clear as the plan develops. sponsors and get new registrants to John Kruse, Washington PRODUCT REVIEW p.13 p.6 | OUTDOOR ADVENTURES p.19 | DO MORE THAN JUST Upgrading our members’ accessibil- our annual meeting, I first need to Ann Simpson, Virginia ALONG THE GREAT AMERICAN ATTEND CONFERENCE BOOKSHELF p.27 ity to OWAA resources, their own get our house in order a little. I’m Danielle Taylor, Pennsylvania RAIL-TRAIL By Pat wray MEMBER DISCOUNTS p.28 directory listings and each other is laying the groundwork to develop the Ruth Hoyt, Texas By Laura Stark Ken Keffer, Iowa SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT p.31 paramount. To that end, I’ve initiated materials, resources and capabilities to p.20 | A BAD IDEA a new members-only Facebook group grow our community and continue to Shawn Perich, Minnesota p.8 | SEO FOR OUTDOOR WRITERS IN A SPECIAL PLACE to share select information within bring together even more storytellers Nick Lowrey, South Dakota By Scott Severson By Michael Furtman our community. I’ve also started passionate about the outdoors. Gary Moore, Vermont researching developers to provide us Emily Stone, Wisconsin p.10 | KEEPING IT REAL: THE MAKING p.22 | PORTFOLIO with an updated website and a new So, we’re on our way toward a new COUNSELS OF A TRAIL GUIDE By Jacqueline Kehoe Association Management Software horizon. We’ve got a long way to go, Attorney: William Jay Powell, Missouri By Mary Terra-Berns to power (among other things) the but the initial results are positive. The Medical: William W. Forgey, Indiana p.27 | ENVIRONMENT members-only area of our site. pack feels heavy, the trail is long and Supporter Liaison: Katie McKalip, p.12 | DANGEROUS CRITTERS AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS we’ve got miles to go – but we are on Montana By Tim Christy By Drew YoungeDyke Understand – Knowing what our way! the needs of our members are will Copyright February/March 2020 by Outdoor p.14 | FIRST YEAR FREELANCING take time, but I’m looking to better Writers Association of America Inc. Reproduc- By Christine Peterson leverage the collective body to better — With more than tion in whole or in part without permission is benefit you, the member. A recent 20 years' experience in prohibited. The contents of Outdoors Unlimited do not necessarily represent the opinion or en- example of this type of consideration the outdoor and travel dorsement of OWAA, its staff, officers, directors is the new benefit providing members industries, Chesak is the or members. Outdoors Unlimited (ISSN 0030- access to discounted ‘pro’ pricing from 17th executive director 7181) is published bimonthly by Outdoor Writers ON THE COVER a slew of brands via IPA Collective. of OWAA. Association of America Inc., 2814 Brooks St., Box 442, Missoula, MT 59801. Periodicals postage After all, what outdoors person paid at Missoula, MT, and additional mailing BY TIM CHRISTIE | A bull bison, intent on protecting the cow he’s tending, stares intently for any adversary during the August rut in doesn’t need to upgrade their gear – at offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Yellowstone National Park. The look, should tell anyone, “I’m not to be messed with!” some point – right? Outdoors Unlimited, Outdoor Writers Associa- tion of America Inc., 2814 Brooks St., Box 442, www.timchrisitephoto.com Missoula, MT 59801.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE OWAA Ethics GOING MIRRORLESS BY PAUL QUENEAU | Working with Noah Buchanan and per charge. I also found the rave reviews of hortly after being elected OWAA Only Facebook page where members had MISSOULA, MONTANA Gary Farber at Hunt’s Photo and Video, a Sony sensors to be spot-on. But speaking President, I returned home from the some concerns about a recent OWAA staunch OWAA supporter that has treated of spots, it’s a nice segue into my single SLittle Rock conference. Soon after member benefit. OR MOST OUTDOOR WRIT- me wonderfully for more than a decade, biggest complaint of mirrorless cameras. that, I received a request for help from a So, what to do? My wise friends ERS, camera equipment is the costliest I ordered the budget-minded Sony a7 iii They require a constant fight against dust member. seemed to agree, the best OWAA strategy Fgear we take afield. We debate which with its renowned 24-megapixel full-frame without a mirror there to protect the sensor. He alerted me that he wrote for a was a third-party intervention, in our case brands and models will best suit our needs, 35 mm sensor and 10 frames-per-second I now swap lenses with the utmost care major magazine months ago and was by the Executive Director or President. and when the time is right to replace or speed. Combined with Sigma’s MC-11 and speed, but dust inevitably still gets on never paid. Could I help? Both editor and Including, as a matter of fact, that an upgrade our trusted tools. converter, it allowed me to mount all my the sensor, requiring me to clean it with far publisher were people I had worked with OWAA member stiffed by a media outlet For 15 years I’ve used Canon DSLRs for Canon EF lenses. Sony built their E-mount greater frequency. before. I sent them an email and asked may let the word get out among the all my professional work, and they’ve never to allow for full-frame converters that My other main gripe, at least about the for an explanation. I did not get one. community that we should take care in let me down. My Nikon friends report the require no glass elements, meaning no loss Sony a7 iii, is the sharpness of its view- The OWAA member told me he still had dealing with that publisher. same—one reason why these brands have in sharpness. There is a negligible focus finder. I’ve long used my cameras and long not received a check. So, I sent a second In that context, if you are having trou- ruled the roost for so many years. lag, and some of the fanciest settings aren’t lenses like binoculars to inspect wildlife OWAA President Tim Mead is a free- email. ble getting paid, let Chez Chesak, our Yet this spring, buoyed by sales of its available, but to me it proved plenty work- from a distance, but the 2,359,000-dot lance writer and photographer from A couple of months went by. The Executive Director, or me know and we’ll mirrorless lineup, Sony overtook Nikon able while also making me quietly long for EVF of that base-model Sony simply isn’t North Carolina with hundreds of credits member sent me a message saying he had rattle cages as best we can. as the number two manufacturer the U.S. native Sony lenses. up to the task. in national and regional magazines. payment and “thanks for the help.” A full-frame market, putting Canon on notice That’s changed, though, when I switched couple of days later I got a message that just as it was busy reporting another drop to using Sony’s new a7R IV. It sports a the check bounced. Our member said in earning and shipments. 5.76 million-dot OLED viewfinder that to others ought to know the magazine did LEAVE A Mirrorless cameras trade out the penta- ... leading camera my eye is just as sharp as my past DSLRs. not pay. prism and mirror mechanism of traditional prognosticators across I’m no longer left searching for my subject Tim Mead What to do? I consulted. In email LEGACY DSLRs for a live sensor-feed to an electron- amid jaggy pixels. OWAA president messages I asked Terry Brady, Ethics ic viewfinder (EVF). This gives you a better the interwebs to say it My only Sony gripes are that my camera [email protected] Committee Chair, Bill Powell, Legal as timeless as the feel for the image you’re about to take, was only a matter of time sometimes crashes, especially if I turn it Counsel, and several other members and depending on the model, saves up to on quickly and try to shoot immediately. I whose judgment I respect. great outdoors a pound of weight, all while maintaining before mirrorless would have to then turn it off and back on again, OWAA Ethics guidelines apply only the steady eyebrow-hold and other familiar replace DSLRs in the as its operating system isn’t as stable as Can- to disputes among members. OWAA has Leaving a legacy gift to DSLR ergonomics. on’s. Plus, I deal with the more common no jurisdiction over disputes between a OWAA in your will allows For years I all but ignored the growing hands of most pros. complaints: Sony’s notoriously elaborate the organization to: member and an outside party. It appears mirrorless fervor. Then Canon announced menu system, and the lack of lossless com- that a failure to pay is a simple business its first mirrorless full-frame body would pressed RAW files. n Provide best practices to dispute, and one for which it’s probably employ an all-new, wider lens mount. That All that said, Sony’s auto-focus speed, our members not worth hiring an attorney. A number startled me into cognizance. Nikon was Hunts gave me a five percent credit sensor quality, dynamic range for adjusting of years ago, back in the days of slides, I n Equip our membership busy doing the same with its Z-mount, with my purchase, good for extra batter- highlights and shadows with minimal noise, sent 50 plus of my best brown trout slides to inspire others to get leading camera prognosticators across the ies and other gear, thanks to my OWAA and other factors make up for any deficien- to a magazine and they were lost. Was outside interwebs to say it was only a matter of time membership. Soon after the June Little cies. After six months, I’m an official mir- it worth hiring a Canadian attorney? I n Build a communal network before mirrorless would replace DSLRs in Rock conference, I was hiking into coastal rorless convert. I’m able to track movement decided “no.” for outdoor media the hands of most pros. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge even of small birds while rapid-fire shooting A remaining option might be called n Inspire future generations Yet I was heavily invested in Canon in the morning half-light with the Sony as well as I did with my DSLR, while “public shaming.” We could run a notice of journalists EF lenses, which was now clearly in the attached to my trusty Canon 100-400mm knowing just how my exposure will look at in Outdoors Unlimited warning OWAA company’s rearview as it rolled out 10 pro- II with a 1.4X teleconverter. I hoped to get the moment the shutter drops. I adore the members publisher X has failed to pay for Your bequest can help your fessional and downright drool-worthy RF shots of the thousands of shorebirds that weight savings, and Sony’s lens options have published work except with an insuffi- lenses in rapid succession. True, EF lenses nest there, and the place didn’t disappoint nailed all my needs and then some, espe- family minimize estate taxes cient funds check. The danger, of course, will remain usable via a converter, but as I despite stifling humidity and clouds of vi- cially their new 200-600mm and Tamron’s is such a notice might draw a lawsuit while helping preserve the feared, each new chunk of RF glass glinting cious mosquitoes. Neither did the Sony—I incredibly sharp and light 28-75mm. which would cost OWAA more than the future of OWAA. For more in the spotlight has plunged the resale value took the best images I’d ever shot of South I’m waiting for the day I miss my DSLR, loss to the individual member. And, as information, contact Execu- of similar EF lenses. Carolina’s Low Country. but it hasn’t arrived yet. If you’re interested Bill Powell noted, lawsuits “Are unpleas- tive Director Chez Chesak at So I began looking hard at the various I quickly adjusted to the camera’s svelte in testing the mirrorless waters, Hunt’s is ant, always, and for both parties.” [email protected]. mirrorless options, and by June was ready proportions and was grateful for one thing helping to plan a try-out session at this More recently there were some con- to take the plunge. As treacherous as it felt, Sony didn’t try to shrink—the battery, summer’s OWAA conference at the Jay cerns posted on the OWAA Members Sony’s offers were too attractive to pass up. which churns out more than 800 images Peak Resort in Vermont.

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COWBOY RECREATION AND (including RVs) and fishing. From there, the trail tra- NATURE TRAIL (NEBRASKA) verses the lush Elkhorn River Valley as it heads north- “Recreation and Nature”—it’s right there in the name, west. Toward the western end of the trail, near Long OUTDOOR and this rail-trail offers both in spades. With more than Pine, an eponymous crystal-clear creek is a local favorite 200 miles of rugged biking adventure, the Cowboy for trout fishing and tubing. Recreation and Nature Trail takes the Great American Approaching Valentine, travelers will experience a through a large swath of northern Nebraska. The trail ‘wow’ moment: a dramatic quarter mile-long bridge ris- also holds a special place in the rail-trail movement as ing 150 feet above the Niobrara River, a National Scenic ADVENTURES one of the longest such conversions in the nation. The River that can be explored by canoe, tube, kayak or raft. railroad was built here in the 1870s to fuel the Black And throughout the route, a backdrop of native prairie, Hills Gold Rush. When the line was abandoned in wooded riverbanks and grass-covered dunes (the largest 1992, RTC purchased the corridor and donated it to the in the western hemisphere) offers a haven for white- ALONG THE state for trail development. tailed deer, wild turkeys, pheasants, quail and more. The eastern end of the trail begins in Norfolk, where Several state-owned wildlife management areas near the GREAT AMERICAN Ta-Ha-Zouka Park provides a prime place for camping trail are open for public hunting and primitive camping. RAIL-TRAIL

HENNEPIN CANAL PARKWAY (ILLINOIS) A Midwestern gem, the Hennepin Canal Parkway provides a never-dull mixture of northwestern Illinois terrain, including forest, prairie, wetlands and farm fields. Spanning more than 100 miles, the trail hosts the Great American route from the Illinois River in the east to the Rock River in the west; plus, a spur extends north To discuss opportunities to Sterling at its midpoint. This serene escape follows an early 20th-century canal for exploring and writing listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and along the way, travelers will ABOVE: Photo courtesy of Tight Line Media about the Great American see numerous lift bridges, aqueducts, locks and other relics of a bygone era. RIGHT: Photo courtesy of Idaho Public Rail-Trail, contact RTC at In addition to the trail’s own biking, hiking and equestrian options, the canal Television adds to the all-around adventure with canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing. And magazine@railstotrails. if birding is your passion, know that bald eagles, waterfowl, woodpeckers and other org. types of birds are frequently seen in this rural setting. The Hennepin Canal Parkway is administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources as a state park and includes campsites. Bow hunting of deer and dove hunting are also available in the park.

BY LAURA STARK | BROOMFIELD, COLORADO envisioned a cross-country trail built upon the foundations of these magnificent railway corridors. The Great American TRAIL OF THE COEUR D’ALENES (IDAHO) N THE HEYDAY OF TRAINS, thousands Rail-Trail spans more than 3,700 miles A visit to Idaho has to be on any outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list. Crossing the state’s between Washington, D.C., and Wash- Panhandle, the 73-mile Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes takes Great American travelers of miles of railway crisscrossed the ington State, traversing some of America’s through the rolling foothills of the Palouse prairie and forested mountain valleys. country, an arterial network of timber most iconic and scenic natural wonders. Skirting the Coeur d’Alene River and journeying through Idaho’s chain-of-lakes re- I While still in progress, it already connects gion, adventurers might spot elk, moose, eagles and other wildlife among the trees. and steel nourishing rural communities us to our shared heritage, nature and each The trail’s proximity to the river also offers options for fishing and paddle sports. other in unforgettable ways. More than half Approaching its west end in Plummer, the trail crosses the southern end of Lake and urban powerhouses alike. the route is already complete and open as Coeur d’Alene on the stunning Chatcolet Bridge. In its waters, anglers will find the Great American knits together existing bass, trout and even chinook salmon. Nestled against the lake, Heyburn State Park trails. For the remaining gaps, RTC is offers a wealth of recreational fun, including boating, swimming, hiking and camp- When rail started losing prominence with the rise of motor ve- providing the national leadership and on- ing. More camping options are also available in the nearby Coeur d’Alene National hicles, many railway corridors fell into disuse. Flashforward many the-ground support to bring together the Forest. decades and these abandoned lines were given new life as rail- people, plans and partnerships necessary trails—multipurpose public paths for walkers, bicyclists, equestri- for completing the Great American Rail- ans and others. These corridors of industry were transformed into Trail. public lands and pathways to the outdoors. Here are just a handful of the nearly ­­­— Laura Stark is an OWAA member and a lead writer and editor for Rails to Trails mag- Since the late 1980s, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) has boundless outdoor adventures to be found azine, responsible for highlighting trails and the people working hard to support them across along this emerging national pathway. America.

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Beyond E-A-T, there are a few basics to cover when you create META DESCRIPTION content web content. The meta description is a snippet of up to about 155 characters – a tag in HTML – which summarizes a page's content. Search KEYWORD RESEARCH engines show the meta description in search results mostly when When starting an article, you need specific keywords to target. the searched-for phrase is within the description, so optimizing For example, I recently wrote about Sport Dog’s TEK 2.0 GPS the meta description is important for SEO. I tend to think of Tracking + E-Collar. I wanted to rank for the specific name the meta description as an ad for your content. Give the searcher brand product term if people were searching for that particular reason to click on your link and ask them to take action. Here’s an product, but I also wanted to rank for the general unbranded example of Meta Description for an article that was optimized for term for people researching the category. By using Google’s the search term “Pheasant Hunting Gear”: Keyword Planner, I found a considerably higher search volume SEO for “GPS Dog Collar” than “GPS e-collar” so I used the higher ranking keywords in the article. The Ultimate Pheasant Hunting Gear List - HuntTested H TAGS https://hunttested.com > the-ultimate-pheasant-hunting -gear-list H Tags or Heading Tags help make your content more us- Jul 1, 2018 - Pheasant Hunting - Ensure you have all the right gear FOR OUTDOOR WRITERS er-friendly and provide SEO value. HTML has six different you need for a successful hunt. Check out our Ultimate Pheasant heading tags — h1, h2, and so on. The h1 is considered the most Hunting Gear List. important tag, and the h6 is the least important. Here’s how to What you should know use them: IMAGERY BY SCOTT SEVERSON | WAYZATA, MINNESOTA According to StatCounter, Google currently accounts for 92% H1 - Typically the title of the article. The most Using more images in your content is usually better for your read- of search engine market share. Given its outsized influence, there important concept of the page, generally 20-70 ers and for search traffic. I typically like to use an image every 200 are a lot of theories on how to rank well on Google. Google is characters in length words or so. Be sure to optimize the image for search by complet- S OUTDOOR WRITERS, our never going to tell about all the factors that influence where you ing the ALT and description tags to tell Google what it is. Some H2 - Is a SubHead for your H1 writing projects may have show up in a search engine result, but it’s clear that the quality sites see significant traffic from Google image searches. of your content is a huge factor. Specifically, it’s about something H3 - is Subhead for your H2 and so on. different objectives, but for the they call E-A-T. This is a basic overview of SEO best practices to consider as A EXAMPLE OF H TAGS IN USE you’re developing content. For more on the subject, sites like most part, like it or not, we are all in the neilpatel.com or searchenginejournal.com can provide a deeper eyeball business. If your target audience H1- The Five Gun Cleaning Basics Every Hunter dive. I often geek out a bit trying to figure out how to increase E-A-T stands for EXPERTISE, Needs to Know article ranking. When I do it’s important to remember that I’m isn’t viewing and engaging with your AUTHORITY and TRUSTWORTHINESS. H2 - Tools You’ll Need writing for a person with interests similar to my own. If I can write something that’s of value for him or her, Google will likely content, it’s unlikely to meet your Let’s break these down. H3 - Cleaning Rods and Brushes H3 - Solvents and Lube find it valuable too. business objectives. With that in mind, H2 - Disassembly First is EXPERTISE. Outdoor writers typically have — Scott Severson is the founder and editor in chief of HuntTested. H3- Disassembling a Shotgun here are a few basic principles of Search this in spades. We’re passionate about our niche com. The former product testing manager for North American Hunter and it shows in our content. H4 - Removing the Barrel Magazine, he went on to lead the magazine’s internet business before Engine Optimization (SEO) that will help AUTHORITY is related to expertise, but the big H4 - Removing the Trigger Assembly founding HuntTested to blend his love of hunting and hunting gear your content be discovered. thing Google wants here is either conducting or cit- H3 - Disassembling a Rifle with his internet marketing background. HuntTested.com provides in- ing research that supports the topic. You should link H4 - Remove the Bolt depth content, resources, and reviews on big game gear, upland game You may have heard the joke, “If you to any research you cite with the appropriate an- gear, camping and general outdoor gear. Scott joined OWAA in 2019. want to bury a dead body where no one chor text. This is a direct signal to Google that you are attributing sources. From a reader’s perspective, TOOLS will find it, just bury it on page two of a linking makes it easy to visit the original source. This There are a variety of tools to make SEO easier and a part of your content creation. I’ve found that Yoast is one of the most us- Google search result page.” The bottom transparency also helps develop greater trust with NEW MEMBERS ONLY your readers. er-friendly options for writers creating content in Word Press. It’ll catch most SEO errors and give you suggestions for improvement. FACEBOOK GROUP line is, if you’re not ranking on Google The final part isTRUST. While this is an article OWAA now has a members only Facebook group. If you you don’t exist. about SEO, we can’t write content just to be found WORD COUNT haven't already joined, simply request access through the in a search; we’re writing for a human audience first While our goal shouldn’t be to write an overly long article, longer link below. Once approved, you'll be added and foremost. The Google Webmaster Guidelines articles generally win more organic traffic. A good rule of thumb is to this new private group. suggest asking the following question when you’re to look at the length of the top 10 articles that currently rank for a https://www.facebook.com/groups/owaam- creating content, “Does this help my users? Would I search term that you’re targeting and use that as a guide. embers/ do this if search engines didn’t exist?”

8 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OULeaving | OUTDOORSa legacy gift UNLIMITED to 9 OWAA in your will allows the organization to: CRAFT IMPROVEMENT CRAFT IMPROVEMENT

Railroad built a branch line from Tekoa, Washington, to Burke, Idaho, dubbed the Wallace Branch, to transport gold, silver, and other valuable ores out of the Coeur d’Alene Mining District. Keeping The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a rail- trail that follows the path of the historic Wallace Branch. Consequently, history is abundant along the trail and is fascinat- ing. So, in addition to ground-truthing the it trailheads and waysides, verifying histor- ical stories was important as well. Some REAL stories are unbelievable (because they are not true), some are well documented and some have various versions seen through different eyes. Searching out and verifying Ground truthing historical facts requires patience, attention to minor details, and research skills. If you are thinking about publishing a guidebook and want and accuracy to see reviews with five stars instead of one, do your homework. Verify your information by ground-truthing, be as accurate as possible, and keep it real. The making of a trail guide — Mary Terra-Berns, an OWAA member since 2016, lives in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where she writes for a number of magazines. Cutline Xxxxxx .... Photo courtesy of Xxxxx

Out on the trail researching in the winter. Photo by Mary Terra-Berns.

BY MARY TERRA-BERNS | ing means physically going to a site and ed at each site. All of the trailheads have COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO verifying what is on the ground. This is a benches, picnic tables, and restrooms. Al- good practice even if you are familiar with most all of the waysides have a bench, and HEN I TRAVEL ABROAD, the area. Having a guidebook that gives some have a picnic table and restroom. I typically have a guidebook inaccurate, outdated, vague, or confusing Important amenities such as water avail- Wwith me. There are a couple information will quickly relegate it to the ability (only at two trailheads) and bike of brands I love because of the concise, “one star” category. repair stations (only at three trailheads) accurate descriptions, and color photo- So, when my friend Judi Cronin (jcron- are not always noted in on-line blogs and graphs. I also have trail guides for hiking inphotograph.com), a professional pho- other publications. and biking, and I look for the same level tographer, and I decided to team up on a We talked with the Idaho Department of accuracy. Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes guidebook, we of Parks and Recreation trail manager and A lot of thought goes into producing a did our homework. There are 19 trail- several trail enthusiasts about what they good guidebook (e.g., traditional publish- heads and 20 waysides on the 73.2-mile would really like to see in a trail guide ing vs. self-publishing, color or black and Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. We wanted to (other than directions, miles, amenities, white, include advertising or not, book highlight each of them. etc.), and the most common response was size, number of pages). Even though I bike and Nordic ski history along the trail. Keeping historical However, providing accurate informa- on the trail regularly, we went to every information as accurate as possible takes a tion that has been ground-truthed should trailhead and wayside to record any recent different kind of ground-truthing. be at the top of the list. Ground-truth- changes and to verify the amenities locat- In 1886, the Washington and Idaho A moose forages along the trail. Photo by Mary Terra-Berns.

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wooly train wreck. Learn about animal behavior. As a wildlife and nature photographer, 2Always allow animals a path to escape. DANGEROUS I’ve been tramping around North Ameri- I’ve seen photographers literally surround ca and Africa now for 40 plus years. Peo- a bull elk to get photos. Beside ruining ple approaching too closely to potentially the photos of some because there are other deadly animals including bison, bears, photographers in one’s images, it dramati- elk, moose and even deer have always cally raises the stress on the animal. CRITTERS been a problem. The invention of point- and-shoot cameras seemed to lure even Follow the rules. National Park more people into approaching up close 3regulations are available for every park. Wildlife photography safety tips and personal. Cell phones exacerbated National Parks have set a minimum dis- the problem, especially for those wanting tance of 25 yards for most wildlife and 100 a selfie. Walking up to a bedded bison yards for grizzly bears and wolves. Even 25 TIM CHRISTY | or bull elk, turning your back on it, and yards is too close for rutting ungulates. COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO then taking a photograph can earn you a Darwin Award. A simple formula for safety; if an animal Other than allowing such reckless can kill or maim you, don’t help them VEN SOMEONE WHO’D NEVER behavior and/or removing people from do it. SEEN A BISON should have the gene pool, what should responsible visitors to the wild do? ­— Tim Christie is an OWAA Excellence understood the look. Intense. in Craft recipient and has been an OWAA E If you’re going to photograph, member since 1985. He’s traveled all over Unyielding. Unforgiving. Don’t try. Don’t 1do it with a camera and appropriate North America and to South Africa in search even think about it! And yet the man in telephoto lens. of magical light and experiences that make the pink shirt and dockers confidently for interesting images and articles. approached the rutting bull and cow bison. PRODUCT REVIEW

ABOVE: A bison looks intently towards the camera. RIGHT PAGE: Critical to staying alive is understanding body language and eye contact with critters. This bull elk is in an aggressive mode. You can see it in his body language and eyes. Photos by Tim Christy Sirui P-326 carbon fiber monopod

Everything seemed to turn into slow males had short fuses. “Mess with me,” BY NOAH BUCHANAN | The Sirui P-326 is one of the smallest motion—shifting from wooing his cow, their attitudes said, “You’re gonna know National Parks have set HUNT’S PHOTO AND VIDEO and lightest monopods I’ve come across. his front shoulders twisted, launching pain. Maybe death.” a minimum distance of It collapses to 15.6 inches and extends to him forward. Two thousand pounds of Millions of people visit Yellowstone ev- Monopods are a must-have accessory to 61.4 inches. It weighs only 0.9 pounds brown fury with blood in his eyes was on ery year. Additionally, Western Montana’s 25 yards for most wildlife any wildlife photographers kit. Carrying and can support up to 22 pounds. Its the man in pink before he could turn to National Bison Range, Custer National and 100 yards for grizzly a telephoto lens can tire you out quite carbon fiber material helps cut down on run. An explosion of dust engulfed the Park in South Dakota, and Teddy Roos- quickly. Monopods are a great way to stay weight and reduce vibration. It’s compact scene; before it settled, the bull emerged, evelt National Park in North Dakota are bears and wolves. out shooting longer and reduce the risk enough to throw into a suitcase while trotting back to his girlfriend-for-the-day. flooded with people wanting to experi- of injury or even damage to your equip- traveling and extends long enough to be Luck was with the tourist who ignored ence wild America. Wherever you find ment. You can go virtually anywhere with at eye level while shooting. Even for a dozens of warnings. As several people ran bison, unless you sneak into the parks a monopod—even places where tripods taller person like myself at 6 feet 2 inches, to his aid, he struggled to get up. Bright under the cover of darkness, you’ve been A couple weeks later social media was aren’t allowed. This is helpful when shoot- I have no trouble bringing the camera up red splotches splayed across his shirt; warned, “Don’t approach Bison—they’re abuzz with a video of people standing on ing in popular locations where a tripod to eye level. his knees poked out of his pants. The dangerous!” a wooden walkway with a bull peacefully either isn’t allowed or is too hard to move Contact me today to inquire about all bull had just head-butted him instead of This past summer a young girl was at- feeding next to the trail. Only a wooden around and set up. Monopods also allow the different types of monopods available goring or stomping him to death. tacked and pitched high into the air like a railing separated several people from the you to work much faster than using a and to find one that best fits you! If you’re That happened some 30 years ago on rag doll by a bull wanting no part of hu- bull mere feet away. One brave (read tripod. If your subject is moving, you can in the market for anything else, please a hot August day while I visited Yellow- man intrusion. The video made national stupid) guy reached over the railing to quickly move without worrying about a reach out and I’ll work special OWAA stone National Park at the peak of the network evening news. What wasn’t asked scratch the bull’s ear. Recoiling, the bull clunky tripod. pricing for you. nbuchanan@huntspho- bison rut. Herds of the wooly behemoths was, “Where were the parents?” “Who al- backed up. Had he bulled forward, sever- Monopods vary by length, type of to.com. roamed throughout the park and all the lowed her into that dangerous situation?” al people would have been involved in a locks and the materials they’re built with.

12 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 13 CRAFT IMPROVEMENT CRAFT IMPROVEMENT

I pulled out a few sheets of paper I collected from a 2012 I knew I might regret the decision. I might miss the stability OWAA seminar titled something like “how you know when of a regular paycheck, the daily routine of talking with cowork- you’re ready to full-time freelance.” The check list, created by ers, and the feeling of being part of a team. But I also might First year freelancing: fellow member and good friend Colleen Miniuk, had been my not. And I knew with absolute clarity I would regret not trying guiding light over the years. The bulleted items gave a smart a full-time freelance life again. breakdown of the realities of freelancing that had previously The lessons I’ve learned in the last year and a half have largely helped me realize I wasn’t ready. This time, that list made me come from fellow OWAA members like Colleen, former OU Lessons learned realize I was. editor Kelsey Dayton and long-time Idaho freelancer Kris Mill- So, I turned in my three weeks' notice and left the only real gate. They may not make you decide to leave that steady job, employer I’d ever known in the only real job I’d ever known. but they might just offer a little clarity on the decision. BY CHRISTINE PETERSON | I panicked. I couldn’t be a freelance writer, while fun, was not practical if I wanted to NEWCASTLE, WYOMING I told him. I couldn’t live with that much do silly things like eat and pay rent. So, I unpredictability, that much hustle, that started as the outdoor reporter for the same EN YEARS AGO, IN THE much unknown. But we had committed, paper I’d left and figured I’d found my FREEZING COLD WYOMING so we did. dream job. I spent the next handful of years n GET OUT OF YOUR HOUSE: Those sweats you’re still TWINTER, my soon-to-be husband I cleaned toilets in Alaska while he trapping grizzly bears, searching for black in? Get out of them and go work somewhere else. The change and I decided to get married, quit our jobs, guided. We saved money and traveled, footed ferrets, riding horseback into the of scenery will spur your brain and keep the neighbors from and travel for a year. I had been a local writing weekly columns for $75 for my wilderness, and chasing native cutthroat all n PREPARE, THEN wondering if they should call for a welfare check on that government reporter at the Wyoming state home paper and selling one story about for stories. But the industry changed, and DO IT: I thought of person they never see. paper for two years, he’d been working odd bone fishing on the Yucatan to the Dallas the paper changed, and soon I was spend- freelancing for years, jobs between summer stints guiding fly Morning News. ing most of my time at a desk as managing which meant I’d spent n DO YOUR HOMEWORK: I once spent an entire day fishers in Alaska. It seemed perfect – then When I came home, I knew freelancing, editor and not much time outside. years slowly reaching out reading National Geographic Animals, searching for editors to editors, writing for and reading their recent stories. It felt like a waste at the time, a few publications, and but ultimately it meant I knew who I was pitching and what saving money. The leap would resonate. It also resulted in my first story with them. will be stressful regardless. Know your publication and know your editor. But knowing when you pull the proverbial plug n BE A PEST, BUT NOT THAT BIG A PEST: Follow up you have contacts and can on those pitches. Wait a week or two weeks, less if the pitch financially weather a dry is timely. Be consummately polite, but also remember editors spell will help. receive dozens or more pitches a day. Yours needs to be on top, and sometimes that comes by reminding them you sent it.

n GO ON THAT TRIP: Now your field work is on your n BUILD A SUPPORT NETWORK: If you’re reading own time. You aren’t getting paid for it unless you have an this, you’re already an OWAA member, which is great. Stay a assignment, so it’s often a risk. I went on a six-day horse member and go to conferences to meet others. Having a group pack trip into the Teton Range shortly after I went freelance of other freelancers, writers, photographers or videographers without an assignment. Best case, I hoped to sell a story or will help when you’re frustrated and down. There’s nothing two. Worst case, I went on a bucket-list trip deep into rugged, like commiserating with someone else who just got their 12th beautiful wilderness. Consider those trips a perk of the job, rejection letter. and if nothing else, post images on social media to build your brand. n BE DISCIPLINED: Congratulations! You’re working from home now. You can stay in your sweats all day and eat chips n THAT BEING SAID, MODERATE YOUR USE OF straight from the bag while staring listlessly out the window. SOCIAL MEDIA: Yes, it can be helpful. Yes, we’re all friends You can do laundry and clean the bathtub in between phone with biologists, journalists and others who might have story calls. But also remember when you’re not working, you’re not ideas. Yes, it’s a good way to build your credibility. But making money. Be purposeful about the time you work and scrolling endlessly through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and purposeful about the time you don’t. Snapchat are also a massive time suck. Use social media as a tool, don’t let it run your life. n MAKE PITCHING A GAME: Collect those rejection let- ters and unreturned emails. Make getting 30 rejections a goal. — Christine Peterson has been an outdoor writer from her home Pitching is a hustle, it’s a game you must embrace. Instead of in Wyoming for the past decade. She has had bylines in National taking those silences or “no thank yous” personally, move on, Geographic Animals, Outdoor Life, High Country News, the tweak the pitch and send it to someone else. Each one is a Cool Green Science Blog and others. She is OWAA’s 2nd Vice lesson learned and each one is a chance to branch out to a new President. Find her at Christine-peterson.com, Twitter @Peterson- Photos courtesy of Christine Peterson. publication or editor. Outside and Instagram @she.will.roam.

OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 15 OWAA'S ANNUAL CONFERENCE: JAY PEAK RESORT, VERMONT: JUNE 27-29, 2020 OWAA'S ANNUAL CONFERENCE: JAY PEAK RESORT, VERMONT: JUNE 27-29, 2020

EXPLORINGBY GARY MOORE VERMONT

WAA’S 2020 CONFERENCE will be held in Vermont’s famed Northeast Kingdom. It’s the most rural and remote region of the state, encompassing the three Onortheastern counties of Essex, Orleans and Caledonia. We’ll offer both pre-conference and post-conference trips throughout central and northern Vermont and a couple of trips in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

FISHING Fishing will be the focus of several trips, like charters for trout and salm- on on 125-mile-long Lake Champlain, guided trips led by biologists on Lake Memphremagog, various trips to rivers and streams in the North- east Kingdom and a fly fishing trip for muskies in upstate New York.

Continued on page 18

16 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 17 OWAA’S ANNUAL CONFERENCE: JAY PEAK RESORT, VERMONT: JUNE 27-29, 2020 OWAA’S ANNUAL CONFERENCE: JAY PEAK RESORT, VERMONT: JUNE 27-29, 2020

Exploring Vermont continued from page 16 INFORMATION GUIDE

CANOEING, KAYAKING & BIKING Northeast Kingdom: getnekedvt.com Do MORE than just There will also be guided and self-guided canoe, kayak and bike Kayak, canoe & bike: kingdomtrials.org and trips offered. Vermont has a lot of water and trails to explore! lamoillevalleybiketours.com HIKING Hiking: greenmountainclub.org and outdoors.org attend conference Hiking is big in Vermont. Vermont’s Long Trail runs the length shelburnemuseum.org of the state and crosses right over Jay Peak before reaching the Shelburne Museum: Canadian border. The Green Mountain Club staff will lead a Shelburne Farms: shelburnefarms.org hike on the Long Trail. The Appalachian Trail (AT) and the benjerry.com/waterbury Long Trail are one and the same in the southern third of Ver- Ben & Jerry: mont before the AT turns east and heads for New Hampshire’s Eden Specialty Ciders: edenciders.com/visit/ White Mountains. Jen Cook’s Kingdom brewing: kingdombrewingvt.com VISITING A MUSEUM Haskell Opera House: haskellopera.com The massive Shelburne Museum has thirty-nine buildings, more than twenty gardens, and some 100,000 artifacts spread out Old Stone House Museum: oldstonehouse over forty-five acres, including a steamboat paddle wheeler and museum.org. a passenger train. Several exhibits will be of special interest to OWAA members. The Dorset House at the Shelburne Museum has one of the finest and most comprehensive wildfowl decoy collections in SPOUSE TRIPS the country with 1,400 decoys. It has examples by prominent Two spouse trips, which are open to all, will be offered Friday, Photo by David Burnell carvers like John Blair, Bill Bowman and Anthony Elmer Crow- June 28 and Monday, July 1. ell. Decoys from Maine, Long Island, Chesapeake Bay, Illinois, Quebec, and other regions are also on exhibit. Cruising The museum collection includes more than 600 paintings by The first spouse trip is a two-hour cruise on Lake Memphrema- landscape and sporting artist Ogden Pleissner. About 40 of his gog aboard the Northern Star followed by a stop at the Tasting works are on rotating exhibition in the Pleissner Gallery, which Bar and Eden Specialty Ciders. Then, on the way back to Jay BY PAT WRAY | CORVALLIS, OREGON and excitement to the entire affair. Try silent auction the best ever! also displays the artist’s Manchester, Vermont studio, recreated at Peak, a stop at Brian and Jenn Cook’s Kingdom Brewing, a these on for size: Author’s note: I’ll be offering a guided Shelburne Museum in 1986. micro-brewery whose motto is, “It’s a mile from Canada but a ANY ASPECTS OF PLAN- two-day hunt for wild chukars in the high The Beech Gallery holds the Terry Tyler collection of more million miles from normal.” NING AND PREPARATION SILENT AUCTION. Our silent auction desert of eastern Oregon. Lodging includ- than 100 Vermont firearms by seventy gunmakers between 1790 Mfor an annual conference must has become a lethargic affair over past ed. Sometime between November 1, 2020 and 1900. Touring an opera house come together to create a smooth and years, primarily because most of us are and January 31, 2021. The Beech Lodge is designed to resemble an Adirondack The second spouse trip is a drive to Derby Line to tour the well-run event. The local folks have to be expecting someone else to do the neces- P.S. It is not true that smart chukar hunting camp and exhibits hunting trophies, Adirondack furni- Haskell Opera House, a unique facility that straddles the U.S./ dedicated and committed to the cause. sary work. Enough of that! We are all, or hunters save their last shell for themselves. ture and wood carvings. Canada border. You can pose for photos inside the library with The conference chair(s) must develop a should be, involved in the silent auction. That’s just an old widows’ tale. one foot in Canada and the other in the U.S. From there, the great theme and then attract a stable of Not just as recruiters of companies and VISITING A FARM group will take a short scenic drive south to Brownington and outstanding speakers, the combination of manufacturers for product, although those STORY TIME. This is a new one, recom- Shelburne Farms is another special place located just a short the Old Stone House Museum. which will make the general membership are great, but as donators of your own mended by Chez, and it should be a hoot, distance from the Shelburne Museum. truly want to attend. The OWAA staff, skills, products and, for lack of a better considering that we are all, by definition, Shelburne Farms is a nonprofit organization educating for a VISITING CANADA Executive Director and conference planner word, stuff. storytellers. We’ll dedicate an hour-and-a- sustainable future. The Farm advances Education for Sustain- Jay Peak is adjacent to the Canadian border so visiting the many must preside over the framework of minu- Have you got a pair of boots that are half after dinner on one night to give our ability in Vermont and internationally by collaborating with historic sites in the eastern townships, Montreal or Quebec City tiae and details, financial and otherwise, still in the box but you’ll probably never twelve pre-selected members the chance educators, schools, and other partners. Located on the shores (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) will be enticing for those on which everything else depends. wear? Are you hoarding an antique reel to tell a favorite story. Subject material is of Lake Champlain, Shelburne Farms’ campus for learning is a who have time before or after the conference. Let me know what But the difference between a well-run that means nothing to you but might be limited only by their experience or imag- 1,400-acre working landscape and National Historic Landmark. you are interested in and I will do my best to assist you. and a truly successful conference comes the crowning jewel for a collector? Can ination. Humor is encouraged. Coarse The Inn at Shelburne Farms is an elegant yet informal 24- down to one single thing: participation by you offer an experience that someone language is not. Each storyteller will have room country house that provides guests a unique agritourism — Gary Moore is the local chair for the 2020 OWAA conference the membership which, in a word, is you. else might consider a once-in-a-lifetime five minutes. Listeners will vote for the experience. and has been a member of OWAA since 1985. He’s a past president, Now, I’m not talking about simple opportunity? Bring it. Offer it. Don’t settle best story and the winner will receive director emeritus and life member of the New England outdoor attendance, though conference attendance for just attending the conference. Be a real $100—or maybe more if anyone wants to EATING ICE CREAM Writers Association. He and Linda, his wife of 49 years, live in the is certainly a critical aspect of participa- participant, and help your organization donate to the kitty. Vermont’s number one tourist attraction (based on visitor num- woods of Vermont in a home they built in 1973. tion. I’m talking about your personal and at the same time. Please notify Executive See you at the conference! bers) is Ben and Jerry’s factory in Waterbury. Tours are conduct- zealous involvement in features of the Director Chez Chesak of donations you ed daily with a chance to taste your favorite flavor. conference which will lend energy, passion intend to bring. Start now. Let’s make this — Pat Wray, Conference Chair

18 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 19 CIRCLE OF CHIEFS CIRCLE OF CHIEFS

mind-boggling display of disdain for the environment, the new leases weakened the already weak restrictions found in the 1966 version. As of the time of this writing, challenges to these leases are winding their way through federal court. Meanwhile, preparations for Antofagasta’s Twin Metals mine continue. Because the federal Environmental Protection Agency has also been compromised A BAD by this administration, Minnesota state officials announced in December of 2019 that they have informed federal agencies and Twin Metals that they will proceed with a state-only environmental impact statement on the mine. The state also demanded the release of the embargoed Forest Service studies. IDEA What is at stake here is one of America’s most beloved wilderness areas. Over 200,000 annual visitors come to the Boundary Waters to paddle, to unwind, to fish or to hunt. What is proposed is a IN A mine that will operate for about 25 years, but whose acid gener- ating waste will require monitoring and treatment for hundreds of years – and that’s the best case scenario. Should any kind of catastrophic release occur, the impacts would be devastating and SPECIAL irreversible. Both the minerals and the Boundary Waters wilderness belong to all Americans. It is my hope that as outdoor communicators, you’ll alert your readers and viewers to this unfolding story. It is not PLACE inevitable that the Twin Metals mine will be built, but it will be good catch on capitals. I built if the kind of sweetheart deals of this administration contin- actually made it all lower Should any kind of ue, and if we don’t do our jobs. Trump administration backs catastrophic release occur, case, like our other decks, ­— Michael Furtman is an accomplished full-time freelance writer sulfide-ore mining in boundary the impacts would be and photographer. michaelfurtman.com waters wilderness watershed as that's our style. devastating and irreversible.

BY MICHAEL FURTMAN | DULUTH, MINNESOTA Photo by Michael Furtman

T WOULD BE HARD TO IMAGINE a worse place to put a renewals, but only if mining began within the initial 20-year lease sulfuric acid generating copper/nickel mine than under a lake, term. turns out, Andronico Luksic is the landlord for Ivanka Trump and Iany lake. Based on this interpretation, The U.S. Forest Service exercised its Jared Kushner. In a conveniently timed purchase shortly before But wait, it does get worse. authority to withhold consent for mining projects within the Supe- the inauguration, a company controlled by Luksic bought the The lake in question, Birch Lake, is only three miles from Min- rior National Forest out of concern that a sulfide-based mine in the Washington, D.C. mansion where Trump and Kushner now live. nesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), and watershed risked “serious and irreparable harm” to the Boundary While all parties insist this is merely coincidence, one can hardly be the waters that exits it via the Kawishiwi River flow directly into Waters and downstream watershed. Similarly, the Bureau of Land blamed for smelling a rat. the BWCAW, then parts of Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park, and Management (BLM), which manages the mineral rights, declined Although Trump’s newly appointed Secretary of Agriculture eventually west through Voyageurs National Park. Known as the to renew the permits, but determined that Antofagasta could apply Sonny Perdue stated to Congress that he would allow the Forest Rainy River watershed, it contains over 2,000 drinking-water pure for new permits contingent upon environmental review. Service to complete the environmental impact statement, without lakes, and hundreds of miles of equally clean rivers. After considerable public input, the Forest Service decided to any public input, he later reneged. Instead, he directed the Forest The proposed mine is known as Twin Metals Minnesota. It is conduct a thorough environmental impact statement on sulfide Service to conduct a simple environmental assessment, and ordered Photo by Michael Furtman owned by Antofagasta, a major mining company in Chile con- ore mining within this watershed, and imposed a moratorium on them to withhold from the public any information that the partial- trolled by the family of Andronico Luksic, one of Chile’s wealthiest mining during this time. ly completed environmental impact study had already produced. families. When first proposed in 2015, alarm bells were sounded All in all, it seemed as though the system was working as it The next Trump appointee to weigh in was Secretary of Interior by not just environmental groups, but countless individuals who should – responsible agencies were following the law by rejecting Ryan Zinke (who has since resigned in disgrace). In 2018 he FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: simply cherished the BWCAW, America’s most visited wilder- the 1966 mine permits, and the Obama administration ordered announced, again without allowing public input, that the BLM https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/ ness. As it turns out, Antofagasta had acquired long dormant min- the environmental impact statement. would issue new leases based on the 1966 permits to Antofagasta. https://sportsmenbwca.org/ ing permits that the U.S. government had originally granted to the But then came a presidential election. Released in 2019, these new leases grant nearly perpetual rights https://www.friends-bwca.org/twin-metals International Nickel Company (INCO) in 1966, permits granted Even though President Trump ran on a “jobs” campaign, and to Twin Metals and its Chilean-based parent company to poten- at a time when environmental review was essentially non-existent. thus was supportive of mining, his administration seemingly took tially tens of billions of dollars-worth of low-grade sulfide deposits The original 20-year lease provided an option for three 10-year particular interest in this largely obscure mining proposal. As it containing copper, nickel, and a variety of precious metals. In a

20 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 21 PORTFOLIO PORTFOLIO

TOP RIGHT: A hiker takes on the Kilauea Iki trail just after dawn, Hawaii Volcanoes JACQUELINE KEHOE | National Park MADISON, WISCONSIN MIDDLE Jacqueline Kehoe is a freelance writer, editor and RIGHT: The photographer currently based in Madison, Wisconsin. Her clouds part for work can be seen in National Geographic, AFAR, Fodor's, Oh! a moment of Ranger, and similar outlets. In addition to her travel writing, sunshine, Black editing and photography life, she runs Scene D—a small Canyon of the theatre company dedicated to social change. Catch her on Gunnison Na- Instagram or in Madison reading up on plate tectonics. Her tional Park next life goal? See all of America’s national parks. TOP LEFT: A tree grows defiantly on the Navajo Loop Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park BOTTOM LINKEDIN: linkedin.com/jacqueline-kehoe RIGHT: A wom- INSTAGRAM: @j.kehoe TOP MIDDLE: A clear day overlooking the amphitheatre, an overlooks TWITTER: @jackierk Bryce Canyon National Park Reflection Pond WEBSITE: jacquelinekehoe.com at sunset, Denali ABOVE: A car winds down the Going-to-the-Sun Road after National Park a brief rainfall, Glacier National Park

22 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 23 ASSOCIATION UPDATE ASSOCIATION UPDATE

DONORS NEW MEMBERS Author of two books, many articles and the Publications and Information Section from National Geographic. (Mike). Skills: membership; sponsored by Rich Landers. August and September brought monetary New member listings include references to former mass communications specialist for the Alaska Department of Fish & CSW. Subject Matter: LWS. Sections: JACQUELINE KEHOE, 305 Norris Ct., gifts from generous donors. These tax- acronyms that relate to Skills, Subject Mat- with U.S. Navy Reserve. Avid backpacker, Game with responsibility for all published Photography. Approved for Active mem- Apt. 2W, Madison WI 53703, 949-910- deductible donations are dedicated to funds ter and Sections. A key for those acronyms trail runner, mountain biker and kayaker. materials in SE Alaska and professional bership; sponsored by Colleen Miniuk. 5525, [email protected], designed to boost OWAA efforts ranging can be found at http://owaa.org/ou/about- Skills: BCEINOQSW. Subject Matter: communications by staff with outside www.jacquelinekehoe.com. Freelance from education programs to operational owaa-skills-subject-matter-sections/. AFGKLMNOPRSU. Sections: Commu- publications. Prior to moving to Alaska PETE HERMANN-FRANZEN, 1000 writer, editor and photographer with costs. For details about OWAA funds, nications/Media Relations, Magazine, 20 years ago, he was a staff photographer/ Boone Ave. N., Ste 1200, Golden Valley publication credits in National Geo- contact OWAA headquarters at 406-728- Newspaper, Photography. Approved for feature writer for Montana Living Mag- MN 55427, (W) 763-231-6680, (C) graphic, AFAR, Backpacker, and Matador 7434. RACHEL BROWN, 29 Ravens Point Student membership; sponsored by Roger azine, The Daily Inter Lake, and Hungry 612-213-8543. Video photographer and Network. An amateur historical geologist Dr., Lake Saint Louis MO 63367, (C) Brunt. Horse News. Covered sports for Stadion editor at Ron Schara Productions where and self-professed national parks geek. 314-266-7035, (H) 314-210-4419, Magazine in the Czech Republic in the he shoots and edits stories for Minnesota Skills: EOS. Subject Matter: L. Sections: RESTRICTED ENDOWMENT [email protected]. President of STEPHEN COLLECTOR, 4209 26th early 1990s and later employed as a staff Bound. Skills: E. Subject Matter: CHST. Communications/Media Relations, Pho- Sam Godfrey marketing communications firm Syn- St., Boulder CO 80304, (H/W) 303- photographer/journalist for the United Sections: Broadcast. Approved for Active tography. Approved for Active member- Colleen Miniuk ergy Group, which helps outdoor and 442-1386, (C) 303-579-4537, stephenc@ Nations covering the conflict in Bosnia. membership; sponsored by Scott Fransen. ship; sponsored by Danielle Taylor. Gary Moore recreation organizations energize their indra.com, https://stephencollector.com/. Also a contributor to Mlady Svet maga- Rich Patterson branding and websites; gain exposure Longtime freelance photographer. Mast- zine, receiving Czech Press Photographer HOLLY HEYSER, 1346 Blue Oaks JOHN F. MCCALPIN, 3840 Regal Oaks through publicity, digital advertising, head for Outside Magazine, Mountain of the Year honors in spot news. Moved Blvd., Suite 100, Roseville CA 95678, Dr., Suwanne GA 30024, (C) 678-699- OPERATING FUND website; and understand audiences Gazette, Sports Afield, Outdoor Life to to United States in 1995 and worked (C) 916-792-0640, (W) 916-648-1406, 7407, [email protected]. Writer Peter Anastasi through research projects. An avid hiker, name a few. Began writing for the fly-fish- as a staff photographer for The Daily [email protected], www.calwater- with credits in Angler Magazine, Georgia Lisa Ballard mountain biker and outdoor enthusiast ing industry in 2013. Published the book, Item in Pennsylvania before moving to fowl.org. Communications director and Outdoor News and www.southernfish- Chris Batha with a passion for the outdoors and out- Law of the Range; Portraits of Old-Time Montana. (Alena). Skills: DEILNOQSW. magazine editor for the non-profit Cali- ing.com. Speaker and presenter at Bass Anthony Bonavist door adventure writing. The granddaugh- Brand Inspectors (1992). Board member Subject Matter: ABCDFGIKLMOPRST. fornia Waterfowl. Principal photographer Pro Shops, Cabela's, Atlanta Boat Show, Mike DiLorenzo ter of Larry Mueller, longtime hunting for the Frank Waters Foundation. (Leigh). Sections: Communications/Media Rela- for Hunter Angler Gardener Cook. Wild various outdoor expo events and fishing Louis Dzierzak dog editor for Outdoor Life and author Skills: BOSW. Subject Matter: ABCEL. tions. Approved for Active membership; food cookbook photographer. Occasional groups. (Lisa). Skills: CDILNOSW. Sub- Dr. William Forgey of outdoor adventure books. She has a BS Sections: Magazine, Photography. Ap- sponsored by Phil Bloom. freelancer. (Hank Shaw). Skills: AESW. ject Matter: ABJK. Sections: Magazine, Sam Godfrey degree in biology from the University of proved for Active membership; sponsored Subject Matter: CT. Sections: Magazine, Newspaper, Photography. Approved for Robert Henke Illinois-Edwardsville. Skills: CDNOQW. by Tim Mead. TODD DAVIS, 136 Park Forest Lane Photography. Approved for Active mem- Active membership; sponsored by Ken William Hollister Subject Matter: GHJKLNOS. Sections: Altoona PA, 16601, (H) 814-742-9260, bership; sponsored by Hank Shaw. Sturdivant. John Kruse Communications/Media Relations. Ap- TODD CORAYER, 30 George St., (C) 814-949-5634, [email protected], www. Colleen Miniuk proved for Active membership; sponsored Wakefield RI 02879, (H) 407-714- todddavispoet.com. Nature writer and ELLA HOLLAND, 130 Harriet Ave., JEREMY PUGLISI, 562 Smith Dr., Paul Quinnett by Jim Low. 4420, [email protected], professor of environmental studies at Highland Heights KY 41076, 815-508- Point Pleasant NJ 08742, (W) 732-996- Alberto Rey fishwrapwriter.com. Freelance writer of Penn State’s Altoona College. Poet, essay- 4564, [email protected]. Student at 6284, [email protected], www. Dennis Scharadin MONICA CARDOZA, 121 Sunset Ave., Fish Wrap, a weekly outdoors column in ist, author of six full-length collections of Northern Kentucky University. Skills: thervatlas.com. Managing editor of ther- Emily Stone Ridgewood NJ 07450, 201-819-4899, South Rhode Island newspapers. Fishing poetry, most recently Native Species and INQ. Subject Matter: LOR. Sections: vatlas.com and co-host of The RV Atlas Sil Strung [email protected], https://monicacardoza. editor, OELMAG.com. Monthly fishing Winterkill. His poetry and essays have ap- Communications/Media Relations, Mag- podcast. Also the co-author of Idiot's John Swinton com. Freelance writer covering outdoor columnist for Shore Times magazine and peared in Orion, Gray’s Sporting Journal, azine, Newspaper. Approved for Student Guide: RV Vacations and the forth- recreation while completing a nonfic- On The Water magazine. Writer/host of Anglers Journal, Alaska Quarterly Review, membership; sponsored by Phil Bloom. coming See You At The Campground BODIE MCDOWELL tion book on how to spend more time Preserve Fishing and Outdoor Report American Poetry Review, Gettysburg (Sourcebooks, March 2020). He and his SCHOLARSHIP FUND outdoors. Senior editor for Risk Man- on WPRO-FM and WEEI-FM. Host Review, Iowa Review, Missouri Review, JEFF HOLMES, 713 N. Rd. 48, Pasco wife, Stephanie, are regular contributors Peter Anastasi agement magazine and editorial director of Golf Destinations TV for September and North American Review. Winner of WA 99301, (W) 509-868-3337, ba- to Trailer Life magazine and have worked Sam Godfrey for The National Association of Printers. and October. Also published in Dou- the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year [email protected]. Author of more as spokespersons for RVIA’s Go RVing Kermit Henning Author of three nonfiction books and for- ble Gun Journal and Sporting Classics. bronze and silver awards, Gwendolyn than 225 articles for outdoor magazines media campaigns on TV and radio. He is Stephen Salmon mer editor for New York Times Syndicate. Work for The Preserve at Boulder Hills Brooks Poetry Prize, Chautauqua Editors and popular blogs since 2011, including a pro staff member with Cabela’s and Bass Larry Stone Professional member of American Society includes creating and recording radio and Prize, and nominated several times for Field and Stream, Northwest Sportsman, Pro Shops. (Stephanie). Skills: AOSX. Luann Sewell Waters of Journalists and Authors. (David). TV advertisements, magazine editorials, the Pushcart Prize. Skills: BLOW. Subject Salmon and Steelhead Journal, Salmon Subject Matter: GHLT. Sections: Com- Skills: BEOW. Subject Matter: GLOSU. promotions, and marketing materials. Matter: AC. Approved for Active mem- Trout Steelheader and more. He leverages munications/Media Relations. Approved JOHN MADSON FELLOWSHIP Sections: Magazine. Approved for Active (Alison) Skills: ENORTW. Subject Mat- bership; sponsored by Dennis Scharadin. over a decade of experience as university for Active membership; sponsored by Phil Sam Godfrey membership; sponsored by Christine ter: ABCDFMORS. Sections: Broadcast, English faculty into his work at a national Bloom. Joel Vance Peterson. Magazine, Newspaper. Approved for PENNY HEGYI, 656 Mari Ct., Lolo science laboratory where he leads proposal BOB SMITH FUND Active membership; sponsored by Tom MT 59847, 406-207-8253, penny@ production and provides writing, editing, RICK SAEZ, 1335 Rocking W. Dr., Sam Godfrey JENNIFER CLIFTON, 2220 W. Curry Sadler. pennyhegyi.com, http://pennyhegyi. and rhetorical support for fundamental Suite 349, Bishop CA 93514, (W) 760- Glenn Sapir St., Chandler AZ 85224, 770-820-5311, com. Graduate from the Rocky Moun- and applied researchers from around the 473-6302. rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast. Luann Sewell Waters [email protected]. Freelance writer and JIM CRAIG, 2950 Simpson Ave., tain School of Photography Professional world. Skills: EOQRW. Subject Matter: com; www.theoutdoorbizpodcast.com. photographer, part-time farmhand and Juneau AK 99801, (C) 907-321-3647, Intensive Program in May 2019. She has ABCGLORSTU. Sections: Broadcast, Avid outdoor adventurer with a 30-plus- full-time student at Wilderness Awareness (W) 907-465-4236, [email protected], sold images to Montana Fish Wildlife and Communications/Media Relations, Mag- year career in the outdoor industry. He's School in King County, Washington. http://www.adfg.alaska.gov. Manager of Parks and has received an Editor's Choice azine, Newspaper. Approved for Active held leadership roles with iconic brands

24 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 25 ASSOCIATION UPDATE BOOKSHELF

such as Montbell, Eagle Creek, JanSport, Dana Design and REINSTATED SUPPORTING GROUPS Lowepro. He is the founder, producer, and host of The Outdoor Supporting Group listings include references to acronyms that relate MY TOP TEN THE HUNTER’S Biz Podcast. In addition to podcasting, he helps outdoor ad- to resources they provide. A key for those acronyms can be found at FAVORITE HORSE WAY, A GUIDE TO venture brands, retailers, and outfitters tell their stories through http://.owaa.org/ou/about-owaa-supporter-resources/. STORIES AND THE THE HEART AND podcasting. Skills: BLRS. Subject Matter: AGLS. Sections: LESSONS LEARNED SOUL OF HUNTING Broadcast. Approved for Active membership; sponsored by Tom THE BEENDERS WALKER GROUP, 125 E. High St., #200, Sadler. Jefferson City MO 65101. Contacts: Marjorie Beenders, AUTHOR: Gail Veley AUTHOR: Craig Raleigh co-owner; (W) 573-636-8282, [email protected]; Jo REINSTATED MEMBERS Duncan, director of media relations, (W) 573-636-8282, jo@ INFO: Booksurge, INFO: HarperCollins/ Reinstated member listings include references to acronyms that relate tbwgroup.net. A full-service marketing and communications paperback, 125 pp; 27 Dey Street Books, NYC, to skills, subject matter and sections. A key for those acronyms can be company with clients from Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks to black and white photos; NY, hardcover, 187 pp; 4 found at http://owaa.org/ou/about-owaa-skills-subject-matter- Alabama’s Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. TBWG specializes $9.99 Kindle; $14.99 photographs; $24.99 HC; $15.89 Amazon; craigraleigh. sections/. in destination marketing, providing professional, creative and Amazon; booksurge. com media-friendly inbound customized and group press trips for com; [email protected]; EILEEN STEGEMANN, 625 Broadway, Albany NY 12233- travel writers, editors, outdoor writers and other communicators. gailveleyequestrian.com The Hunter's Way is not so much about how we hunt. The book 4502, (W) 518-402-8047, [email protected], www. Resources: CIO. speaks more to why we hunt, how we approach hunting, prepare dec.ny.gov/pubs/conservationist.html. Managing editor of Given an “Excellent” rating by for hunting, and the personal feeling after the harvest. It’s not Conservationist, bimonthly publication of the New York De- CONTINUOUS METAL TECHNOLOGY, 83 Salada Rd., Du an independent review from The Yankee Horsemen’s Pedlar, this really a how-to book, but rather a reflection of our minds—body partment of Environmental Conservation with focus on natural Bois PA 15801. Contacts: Timothy Smith, president, (W) 814- book is hard to put down once you get started. Every chapter is and soul—as we prepare to take from the nature that gives to resources and outdoor recreation in New York State. Skills: EW. 772-9274, [email protected]; Brad Clinton, direc- a story unto itself, chronicling the author’s life and experiences all of us. In this way we can get back to our base roots: we don't Subject Matter: AGOS. Sections: Magazine. Approved for Active tor of marketing, [email protected]. Continuous as a horseperson. Guaranteed to help you end your day on a need a supermarket to take care of ourselves. More so that we membership; sponsored by Glenn Sapir. Metal brings advanced technology to the outdoor market, from good note, every chapter inspires, strives to entertain while also prove to ourselves that we can overcome nature while caring for fishing lures and ammunition components to outdoor body teaching a moral. Even non-horse lovers will find this enjoyable! it. The book speaks to the conservationist in all hunters. NEW SUPPORTING GROUPS wash and pet care products. As for horse lovers, they will wonder when the next book is Supporting Group listings include references to acronyms that relate coming out! to resources they provide. A key for those acronyms can be found at OHIO DIVISION OF WILDLIFE, 2045 Morse Rd., Columbus owaa.org/ou/about-owaa-supporter-resources. OH 43299. Contact: Kendra Wecker, information and educa- tion administrator, (W) 614-265-7043, kendra.wecker@dnr. HELICONIA, 1782 Beachburg Rd., Beachburg, ON Canada state.oh.us, http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov. Dedicated to conserving K0J1C0. Contact: Brendan Mark, (W) 613-582-7154, bren- and improving fish and wildlife resources and their habitats and [email protected], www.helipress.com. Helps tourism destina- promoting their use and appreciation by the public to enhance tions and brands share their stories through video. quality of life for residents. Resources: C. Environment and National Affairs

PATAGONIA, 235 W. Santa Clara St., Ventura CA 93013. TIOGA COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU, 2053 Rte. 660, Well- BY DREW YOUNGEDYKE | tribal wildlife agencies to recover the almost one-third of Contact: Corley Kenna, director of global communications/pub- sboro PA 16901. Contact: Lori Copp, executive director, (W) ENVIRONMENT AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS CHAIR species at risk in the United States, identified as species of lic relations, (W) 202-320-3921, [email protected], 570-724-0635, [email protected]. Website: https://visitpottertioga. greatest conservation need in state wildlife action plans. $1.3 www.patagonia.com. Patagonia is a sustainably and ethically com. Promotes and facilitates tourism and related activities in Despite the dominant political climate, bipartisanship still billion would go to state wildlife agencies to implement made outdoor clothing and gear company. Resources: P. Tioga County, Pennsylvania. exists for some conservation priorities. Building on the bipar- those existing plans to recover wildlife, with the remaining tisan success of the John D. Dingell Conservation, Manage- $97.5 million going to tribal nations for wildlife recovery on ment, and Recreation Act, which permanently reauthorized tribal lands. the Land and Water Conservation Fund when signed into The Modernizing the Pittman-Robertson Fund for Tomor- law in early 2019, multiple pieces of bipartisan conservation row’s Needs Act will provide state wildlife agencies the flexi- SIX CANDIDATES CHOSEN TO RUN FOR OWAA BOARD legislation have been working their way through U.S. House bility to use some of the hunter education allocation they get Six candidates, selected by OWAA’s board nominating committee, will compete for three seats on and Senate committees. from the fund for marketing and outreach efforts to increase the Outdoor Writers Association of America’s board of directors. They will replace John Kruse, Ann In early December 2019, the U.S. House of Representa- hunter recruitment, retention and reactivation. Since 1937, Simpson and Danielle Taylor. Those elected will begin their three-year term June 27, 2020. Candidate tives Natural Resources Committee advanced two significant hunters and recreational shooters have paid into the fund bills on the same day, the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act for wildlife recovery through excise taxes on hunting and profiles will appear in the April/May issue of OU. Active, senior-active and life members will vote in an (H.R. 3742) and the Modernizing the Pittman-Robertson shooting equipment, but declining hunting participation online election in April. Below is the slate in alphabetical order. Fund for Tomorrow’s Needs Act (H.R. 877). risks a decrease in wildlife conservation funding through the The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, introduced Pittman-Robertson Fund. Bill Brassard Matt Miller Kelsey Roseth by Reps. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) and Debbie Dingell Both bills will now move to the House floor for consider- Newtown, Connecticut Boise, Idaho Duluth, Minnesota (D-Mich.), would direct almost $1.4 billion to state and ation.

Steve Griffin Russell Roe Charles Witek Midland, Michigan Austin, Texas West Babylon, New York

26 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 27 2020 DEALS 2020 DEALS

DESTINATIONS FLYING FISHERMAN extends a 40% online or at L.L. Bean retail or factory ask for Tiffany and identify yourself as an discount on direct purchases of Flying stores and is intended for use only by OWAA member. ABERDEEN AREA CONVENTION AND Fisherman polarized sunglasses and individual OWAA members. VISITORS BUREAU offers to arrange angler accessories. To receive your SUZUKI MARINE offers discounts film and media tours to their South media discount, contact Bobby Vaughn LODGE MANUFACTURING CO. offers on outboard motors to those in the Member Dakota destination. They work directly at [email protected] or 800- a 50% discount off retail prices. Contact continental U.S.A., including Alaska. with guides, outfitters, landowners and 335-9347, and mention your OWAA MarkKelly at [email protected]. Discount amount varies with motor size, lodges and can help make the connections membership. rigging parts, labor and location. Contact needed to host a quality film and media MEPPS (SHELDON’S, INC.) extends a Dean Corbisier at [email protected] or event. Many times there is no charge for For GRABBER AND HOTHANDS 40% discount on all lures and kits. Mister 714-996-7040, ext. 2234, with your needs discounts these events. Contact Casey at caseyw@ products, use offer code OWAA25 for Twister offers a 40% discount on all soft to work out a solution. visitaberdeensd.com or 605-225-2414. 25% off at www.warmerwarehouse.com plastics, kits and electric fillet knives. For and www. coolingwarehouse.com. You can more information, contact the Mepps and ORVIS COMPANY INC. The Orvis VISIT CENTRAL FLORIDA offers FAM also use offer code OWAA10 for 10% off Mister Twister Communications Director Friends in the Field program provides trips for media looking to cover the at www.warmers.com. at 800-637-7700. professionals in the outdoor industry region. Members can explore more than access to the best fly-fishing and and deals 375 miles of hiking and paddling trails, GUMLEAF USA is pleased to extend MYTOPO, a Trimble Company, provides wingshooting products offered by Orvis. Check out the 2020 courtesy discounts get up close and personal with a wide a 20% discount off our incredibly free products for evaluation, or discounted To register, go to www.orvis.com/OFF and variety of animal species in what USA comfortable, European-made, products for personal use. MyTopo’s suite enter “OWAA” in the sponsor field. offered by OWAA Supporting Groups, Today named one of the “Top 50 Places handcrafted, 85% natural rubber boots. To of products includes professional GIS in the US to See Wildlife” or haul in some order, ask questions or for product review mapping software, Terrain Navigator Pro UMAREX USA extends up to a 40% Agencies and Businesses trophy-class bass in the Largemouth Bass info, please call Jack toll free at 844-486- and a wide array of printed map products discount on website pricing for Umarex Capitol of the World. Contact Al Snow 5323. that will be printed and shipped within Airguns, Axeon Optics and Optical Dynam- at [email protected] for more 24 hours. Use promotional code “OWAA” ics products. Use code OWAA-VIP during information. For HUNT’S PHOTO & VIDEO discounts, during checkout at www. mytopo.com checkout at: umarexusa.com, axeonoptics. contact Noah Buchanan at 781-462-2356 to order your free map at the company's com, and longdistancelight.com. Access to OWAA’s membership is available to groups, OUTDOOR MEDIA SUMMIT affords a or [email protected]. Watch website, www.mytopo.com, or contact agencies and businesses with an interest in the outdoor field 30% discount off of conference and hotel for Hunt’s direct mail and email specials Paige Darden at [email protected] YO-ZURI INC. provides OWAA members tickets for OWAA members. Look for the throughout the year or visit Hunt’s blog or 877-587-9004. The professional dealer pricing on all products they offer and a desire to support OWAA programs. These entities join updated 2020 summit promotional code at www.wbhunt.com/blog for product software, Terrain Navigator Pro, is in the U.S.—a substantial savings over later this year. reviews and the latest news. available for review by visiting www. retail pricing. For price inquiries and OWAA as ‘Supporting Groups’ in order to help expand public terrainnavigator.com and signing up for orders, contact Ray, 772-336-2280, information on outdoor recreation and conservation, improve GEAR EPPINGER MFG. CO., makers of the the free 7-day trial. [email protected]. Additional world-famous Dardevle spoon, offers discounts are being added all the time! our professional craft and further recognize outdoor writing ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR INC. extends a writers traveling on assignment a loaner PORTA-BOTE FOLDING BOATS offers 30% media discount on Full Throttle, Onyx tackle box program: They send you a tackle a 50% discount and free delivery to the FIREARMS/AMMUNITION as a specialized field. and ArcticShield products. Contact Mary pack loaded with the appropriate lures for lower 48 states for their unique line of Traditionally, many OWAA supporters have extended cour- Snyder at msnyder@absoluteoutdoorinc. the location you will be fishing and writing folding boats. The boats are available in BROWNING/WINCHESTER com or 320-252-2056, ext. 103. about. They ask that their products are different lengths and fold to four inches REPEATING ARMS provides a discount tesy discounts to OWAA members to help provide them with featured in some way in the publications flat. For more information, call 800-227- below dealer wholesale on their products. the tools and services they need as storytellers in the back- ALLEN COMPANY provides a 40% media you are writing for and require a copy of 8882 or email [email protected]. Contact Shaundi Campbell at Shaundi. discount on their line of hunting, shooting, the finished story when it is published. Porta-Bote Folding Boats was awarded [email protected] or 801-876- country and, ultimately, build relationships with them. Note tactical and archery products. Use code When the project is completed, simply a sales franchise by Suzuki Outboard 2711, ext. 3278. OWAA2020 on byallen.com. return the box minus any tackle you wish Engines, so they can offer very low OWAA that these discounts are for OWAA MEMBERS ONLY. Please to keep for further adventures. They also prices to writers for outboards up to 30 ENVIRON-METAL INC., makers of do not share the contacts, codes or discounts noted below BLACK RIVER TOOLS affords media offer a 50% discount off factory retail horsepower. nontoxic shot developed to replace wholesale pricing for Driftmaster rod pricing on any purchase done directly with steel in waterfowl hunting, affords a full with anyone who is not a current OWAA member. For more holders, Father Nature bird feeders and their factory. Contact: John Cleveland at SPORTDOG BRAND extends access range of discounted HEVI-Shot products Cart Lok golf cart locks. Call 803-473- [email protected] or 313-582-3205. to a full range of dog training products via ExpertVoice. To obtain access to information on member discounts, email membership@owaa. 4927 and ask for David. via ExpertVoice. To obtain access to ExpertVoice to view discounted pricing org or call 406-728-7434. L.L. BEAN provides a discount of up to ExpertVoice, and view special industry and available products, contact Tina BRITE-STRIKE TECHNOLOGIES extends 20% on all sporting goods, apparel and pricing and available products, contact Larsen at [email protected]. 50% off manufacturer’s suggested retail footwear (not included are items from Matt at [email protected]. price on all items. Call 508-746- 8701 or the Home, Travel or Kids catalogs). To STURM, RUGER & COMPANY INC. email [email protected] receive the discount, call 800-458-3058, STORMY KROMER provides a 30% affords a media discount. Contact Paul and mention your OWAA membership. ext. 38136 and mention your OWAA discount on all regularly priced items. To Pluff at [email protected] or 603-865- membership. The discount is not available receive the discount, call 888-455-2253, 2668.

28 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 29 2020 DEALS SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT

SERVICES MARTIN FLORY GROUP’S public SEAGUAR’S VIP program entitles you to relations services include a variety purchase products directly at a discounted DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION of manufacturers in the outdoors, price. Of course, these products must (DRA) is taking press trip applications. boating, fishing and RV markets. Many be for your own personal use. Send an Upon receiving your application, the DRA of these companies work with writers on email to [email protected] with the will share it with their member ranches. discounts and product review projects. subject line “Seaguar VIP Request-OWAA If a ranch is interested in hosting you, the For a complete list of clients, go to www. Member.” A Seaguar VIP rep will then DRA will then connect you directly to martinflory.com, and then contact them at contact you to verify your membership work out the details. For more information [email protected] or 847-662-9070. and provide you the instructions to visit duderanch.org and/or send an email register and begin purchasing Seaguar to [email protected]. PHOTOSHELTER offers a discount on products. both standard and pro annual accounts IPA COLLECTIVE offers special access at www.photoshelter.com. Use promo Check out the Members Area of OWAA’s pricing to more than 50 leading brands code OWAA_2014. PhotoShelter website at owaa.org for additional in the outdoor industry. Brands like websites are packed with powerful member benefits and discounts including Marmot, Icebreaker, Osprey, Smith tools that make doing business easier car rental and hotel discounts. It bears Optics, CamelBak, Dakine and Club and help photographers generate more repeating that all of these discounts are Ride are looking for brand influencers income from their work. More than for OWAA MEMBERS ONLY. Please like you to use their products. Simply 70,000 professional and serious amateur do not share the contacts, codes or go to ipacollective.com/industry and photographers around the world use its discounts noted above with anyone who indicate your relationship with OWAA in complete solution to display, market, sell, is not a current OWAA member. the Company/Organization field. Once deliver and manage photography online. approved, you’ll have access to the brands you select.

OWAA offers financial assistance CHOOSE YOUR JOHN MADSON FELLOWSHIP posed primarily of OWAA member contributions and OWAA members, as well as nonmembers, are invited to fundraising efforts. Its goal is to enhance professional AGRIVENTURE apply for the 2020 John Madson Fellowship. The John communication skills for OWAA members and non- Madson Fellowship honors the legacy of one of OWAA's members. Funds are invested and managed by OWAA most talented and respected writers. Read more about endowment trustees. From a backroads road trip through the outskirts of town in search of produce stands and him in the online article "John Madson: Words for at alpaca farms to exhilarating hikes up oak studded hills, adventurous souls can fuel their quest Least a Thousand Years." Since its inception in 1994, the BODIE MCDOWELL SCHOLARSHIP for adventure with an off-the-beaten-path tour of Vacaville, California. John Madson Fellowship has provided OWAA members OWAA is accepting applications for its Bodie McDowell scholarship program. Scholarships are for the 2020- with more than $18,000 in funding to continue their vinegar) from produce grown in their orchards and fields. Sample education in outdoor communication fields. 2021 academic year. Established in 1966, more than OUTDOOR EXPEDITIONS these and other one-of-a-kind local products when you explore In 2020, OWAA will award up to $3,000 to select- $140,000 in scholarships have been awarded since Start by tackling one of the challenging hiking trails at Lagoon Vacaville’s farming community. ed outdoor communicators seeking to enhance their 2002. Approximately $24,000 in scholarships will be Valley Park. The tower climb is a local favorite: its 620-foot professional skills as writers, photographers, videog- awarded in 2020-2021. Each scholarship includes a elevation gain gives climbers who make it to the top unbelievable PACKS OF ‘PACAS raphers, broadcasters, etc. The money can be used to one-year student membership with OWAA. The Bodie views of Vacaville, Fairfield, and beyond. Or head to the north Vacaville is home to Menagerie Hill Ranch, an alpaca farm that attend OWAA's annual conference, college courses McDowell scholarship program is open to undergrad- part of town to explore the Browns Valley Open Space, where ba- is packed with alpacas and all sorts of ‘paca products like yarn, or professional seminars and can be applied to tuition, uate and graduate students at any school who demon- salt boulders offer climbs from easy to challenging. Bring a crash clothing, and more. Alpaca fiber is warmer and lighter in weight registration, room and board costs, as well as qualifying strate a record of accomplishment in, and commitment pad if you plan to tackle the more difficult holds! than cashmere wool and can be used in knitting and weaving, travel expenses. The fellowship is funded through the to, fields in outdoor communication. Applications for the so make sure to pick some up for yourself or a friend. The farm John Madson Fellowship Fund, an endowment com- 2020 award are now available. FARM TO FORK FLAVORS is open by appointment only, so call ahead or visit their website, Ready to wind down and explore the outskirts of town? Cruise menageriehillranch.com, for more information about tours or to To apply, go to www.owaa.submittable.com and create a free account, which allows access to the John Madson through the historic agricultural heartland of Pleasants Valley to set up a time to visit. Fellowship and Bodie McDowell Scholarship application forms. Applications must be submitted by March 1, 2020 find farm-fresh lavender, eggs, cheeses and produce. Longtime lo- using this online form. cal favorite Morningsun Herb Farm carries herbs, vegetables, and Ready to plan your Agriventure? fruit trees you won’t find anywhere else. Across town, Lockewood Head to VisitVacaville.com to get started, or download the Visit Acres presses fresh jellies, syrups, and shrub (a fruity, sweetened Vacaville app for an interactive trip planner and events guide.

30 OUTDOORS UNLIMITED | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 OWAA.ORG/OU | OUTDOORS UNLIMITED 31 OUTDOOR WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA 2814 Brooks St., Box 442 Missoula, MT 59801 406-728-7434, Fax: 406-728-7445 [email protected], owaa.org

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: Contributors grant rights for OWAA to publish once in Outdoors Unlimited, both the print and online versions, including archives, and on the OWAA website.

OUTDOORS UNLIMITED February/March 2020 Vol. 80, No. 8 Meet a member

AREAS OF OUTDOOR We even take our dog Leo skijoring. My COMMUNICATION? son (now in college) raced at the high I’m a freelance writer and I contribute to school level and my daughter does, too. outdoor magazines in the Upper Mid- It’s simply the best outdoor activity in the west. I’ve also written about outdoor world. You may disagree. You may also be recreation for my blog, my local newspa- wrong. per, and several websites. WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WHAT DREW YOU TO THE FIELD? WORKING ON? I like to write down my outdoor family I’m putting together a book-length col- adventures, mostly so I can remember lection of 80 of my articles for a publisher them. About 17 years ago, I started who showed some interest. I hope to get submitting stories and was pleased to find that one across the finish line. In 2018, a market for them. I hope I’ve motivated I wrote a poem after every run, hike, ski, readers to go on outdoor trips with their or paddle. I just submitted that book own families. Also, I had regular sam- manuscript to a few places and can’t wait ples of great outdoor writing here in my for the rejections to pour in. I’m also try- neighborhood from Shawn Perich, Sam ing to find a home for a piece about my Cook, and Michael Furtman. I aspire to disagreement with some current federal write like them. land management policies. This essay was actually inspired by two things I heard at WHAT ENTICED YOU TO JOIN OWAA? the Duluth OWAA Conference in 2017. I write for Northern Wilds Magazine and the publishers there posted pictures of WHAT HAVE YOU GAINED FROM their trips to the OWAA annual confer- THE ORGANIZATION? NAME: Eric Chandler ence on social media. It looked like fun Inspiration from the writers I’ve met and and the Duluth conference was on the their work that I’ve read. I placed a story RESIDENCE: Duluth, Minnesota horizon, so I joined up. with a new market because of people I met at the OWAA conference. The OWAA MEMBER SINCE: 2016 WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE writers I’ve met have been very supportive OUTDOOR ACTIVITY? and sometimes, alone at your desk, that WEBSITE: I’ve been cross-country skiing since I support matters. I get a lot of miles out of ericchandler.wordpress.com could walk. The whole family partakes. a few helpful words.