Number 2 Volume 32 July, 2004

Fascinating Flyers

Freedom to Hunt.....

Legislation Recap

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PAID Permit #1393 Baton Rouge, LA CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

Official Publication of the Louisiana Wildlife Federation 3 From The President and Executive Director VOL. 32 July 2004 NO.2 22 Conservation Line Editorial Creed: 30 Tibby Sez To create and encourage an awareness among the people of Louisiana of the need for wise use and proper management of those resources of the earth upon which the lives and welfare FEATURES of all people depend: the soil, the air, the water, the forests, the minerals, the plant life, and the wildlife.

4 Fascinating Flyers Magazine Staff 5 Woodpecker Project Randy P. Lanctot: Editor 6 Freedom to Hunt, Fish, and Trap

7 Lagniappe Louisiana WILDLIFE Federation magazine (ISSN 0738-8098) is the official publication 11 Coastal Restoration of the Louisiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. The 12 Legislative Session Recap Federation office is located at 337 South Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 21 White Lake 70806. All editorial and subscription correspondence should be mailed to P.O. Box 25 Butterfly Gardens 65239 Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239 (Phone/Fax 225-344- 6707;mailto:[email protected]. All manuscripts submitted for publication are subject to editing or rewriting.

Postmaster: Send change of address to: Louisiana Wildlife Federation, P.O. Box 65239 Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239.

Membership: For information, write to: Louisiana Wildlife Federation, P.O. Box 65239 On the Cover...... Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA 70896- The most sought after coastal saltwater finfish in Louisiana 5239. Phone/Fax: (225) 344-6707. is, and always has been, the spotted seatrout (Cynoscion mailto:[email protected] nebulosus). In Louisiana, it goes by the name speckled trout or just “speck.” It’s why throngs of anglers travel to the coast, especially in the summer, but really, most months of Visit Our Website the year. It stimulates a significant coastal economy, and http://www.lawildlifefed.org real estate and marine manufacturing industries by creating demand for coastal “camps” and boats, motors and trailers, not to mention beau coup fishing gear. Though they’ll take other species, most anglers are after specks, period. Redfish are for when it’s too windy or cold to find the specks. Surf fishing for specks is one of the most enjoyable angling experiences you can imagine. All it takes is a rod and reel properly rigged, a handful of artificial baits, or maybe a bait bucket with some minnows or shrimp, and a stringer or floating net basket to hold the catch. (A saltwater fishing license is required, too, but keep it somewhere it won’t get

Continued on page 24

Page 2 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 FROM THE PRESIDENT

Fisheries will manage this 71,000 acres of Joe” McPherson who was standing in for his E.R. “Smitty” freshwater marsh open water and agriculture dad. Thanks “Little Joe” for those fat, tasty Smith III fields, thus affording public participation in burgers. “Little Joe” is quite the misnomer determining the programs and rules and reg- as he stands in at about 6 feet or better. Also, ulations applied to the area. A new advisory thanks to the many LWF board members board will be established that includes per- who attended and gave up half of the week- sons with scientific and technical expertise end to steer the Federation forward. capable of guiding the management of the Since my last column, I have also been property. on the road quite a bit. I represented the I can’t say thank you enough to Senator Federation at a Pesticide Advisory Wow, what a difference one year and a Joe McPherson and Randy Lanctot our exec- Committee meeting, a Coastal Advisory new administration in state government can utive director, for championing these and committee meeting, one of the Louisiana make. With backing from the Louisiana other pieces of conservation legislation down Coastal Area Study Scoping meetings, the Wildlife Federation, the just completed leg- at the capitol. Thanks also to the other legis- Black Bear Festival in Franklin and various islative session has seen a string of victories lators who supported these efforts, Governor affiliate club meetings. Some of the affiliate for sportsmen and conservation. Senate Bill Blanco, and all of you that got involved and club meetings included a trip to Crowley 2, proposing a constitutional amendment to contacted your legislators. I suspect that where I spoke at the Acadiana Sportsmen’s guarantee the “Freedom to Hunt, Fish and some of you grew tired of getting my emails League annual membership supper. I also Trap,” was passed, and will be on the harassing you to take action. But it comes attended the Southwest Louisiana Wildlife November 2nd general election ballot. with the territory. We will be at it again next Association meeting in Kinder, where my Approval by the voters would add this provi- year, and so will my spam attacks. friend and LWF District 7 At-large director, sion to the Declaration of Rights in the Besides our work down at the capitol, Jerry Haas was elected president of that orga- Louisiana Constitution, the strongest possi- we have been very busy at LWF. Our office nization. Good luck, Jerry. Most recently, I ble protection for this fundamental right of has gotten a facelift, with some much need- attended the Avoyelles Wildlife Federation citizenship in the “Sportsmen’s Paradise.” ed remodeling. Since my last column, we annual membership meeting and was treated Another major accomplishment for the state have had both an Executive Committee to a great time and some wonderful food. and the Federation was the enactment of meeting and a Board meeting. Both meet- Besides me and my wife Shawn, LWF was Senate Bill 118 which rectifies the legal and ings were very productive. The Board meet- well represented by past president Joe policy issues concerning the management of ing took place at Booker Fowler Fish Herring, 2nd VP Jay Huner and his wife the White Lake property set up under the Hatchery at Woodworth and took up the Judy, secretary Ken Dancak and executive better part of a Saturday with a morning ses- previous administration. Under the new Continued on page 20 law, the Department of Wildlife and sion and working lunch grilled up by “Little FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Randy consorted with radical environmental outdoors and to the state’s economy, and groups to engage in a political rally against that there is room for improvement here in Lanctot the President and misplaced our priorities at Louisiana and throughout the nation. That the Legislature, among other criticisms. My theme is consistent with the mission of the inclination is to dismiss such ignorant LWF and our participation was approved by charges. But I have been asked by some the LWF Board of Directors at its spring Louisiana Wildlife Federation members, board meeting the weekend previous to the shocked by this columnist’s tirade, to address rally. The rally was intentionally scheduled the most egregious assertions. It may be to be on the steps of the state capital on the As you can tell from reading President enlightening for readers to know that this eve of President Bush’s visit to the LSU com- “Smitty” Smith’s column, the Louisiana columnist was not present and therefore had mencement, to attract media attention to Wildlife Federation has had a productive no firsthand knowledge about LWF’s partic- the issues presented at the rally, and with the Spring. Our efforts have been rewarded ipation at the rally or at the Legislature. hope of getting the attention of the leader of with the adoption of important legislation Very briefly, the Louisiana Wildlife our Nation, as well as government leaders in and the recognition of our organization’s Federation was invited to participate in a Louisiana, in addressing them. Although leadership in the conservation community. rally at the capital in Baton Rouge to pro- some presenters at the rally expressed con- Despite that, our efforts have been criticized mote the importance of a quality environ- cerns with specific initiatives, or lack thereof, by a columnist with the “Louisiana ment to a sound and thriving economy. of President Bush’s administration that per- Sportsman” magazine who has maligned the Every conservationist knows how important tain to conservation and the environment, clean air, water and soil, and abundant, high LWF to his readers, charging that we have Continued on page 9 quality habitat are to our enjoyment of the

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, November 2003, Page 3 Fascinating Flyers Photos Courtesy Bill Dupree the cooling fins of the radiator, some intact and I walked out this morning to make a rou- well preserved enough to study and wonder at. tine, brief round of the garden before heading to Their abundance and wide distribution the office. After all the rainfall of the past 2 makes them common and therefore, taken for months, and now the heat, there’s not much left granted. They’re just part of summer, which in out there – a few peppers, a squash or two, a Louisiana is pretty much all year. Too bad. They deformed cantaloup. But the okra stands tall and are worthy of more notice. These bugs are drag- Blue Dasher onflies. adult stage which is spent flying, feeding, mating Dragonflies have many of the same qualities and laying eggs. They are carnivorous. We fond- that make butterflies and birds, especially hum- ly refer to them as “mosquito hawks” as they dart mingbirds, so fascinating. And when it comes to about the yard catching mosquitoes and other being “cool,” they are the coolest of animals. bugs in mid-air. Their flying skills are unsurpassed. Their colors Dragonflies (and damselflies which are range from neon to subdued. They have com- slightly smaller and somewhat differently con- plex and interesting life histories with an aquatic structed) belong to the insect order Odonata. This is a relatively small order of bugs (about 6,500 species described worldwide) when you consider that the order of beetles (Coleoptera) includes over 300,000 species. In North America there are about 300 dragonfly species Window Skimmer and 125 damselfly species. As much as I respect the capabilities of drag- making. So I picked a few. As I eased down the onflies, and am fascinated by them, I have never row I noticed a bug grasping a top leaf, still as if really thought of trying to attract them to my its spirit had left in the night. I took a moment, yard or to learn more about them like so many of and a deep breath as I examined its intricacies, us do for butterflies and birds. But the other day transported back to long summer days when kids I picked up “Dragonflies” by Cynthia Berger, the found adventure wading shallow ponds and col- first work in the new Wild Guide series pub- lecting things. Back then, the bug I was now lished by Stackpole Books, and started to think, observing on the okra bush was a prize catch, an why not? Why not dragonflies, too? Wouldn’t it extraterrestrial with an extraordinary talent to “Dragonflies” is available in bookstores or from Stackpole be interesting to know what species hang around evade capture. Often, the only way we could get Books. mailto:[email protected] your yard? And when the fishing is slow, observ- one was to search the grillwork of Gramps’ Buick ing dragonfly activity can add to the enjoyment when he returned from a summer road trip. stage that comprises the greatest part of the life of being out on the water, if you know what to There were usually 2 or 3 of them smashed into span of most species, followed by a 4-6 week look for. That’s where “Dragonflies” is helpful. It describes the most common behaviors of drag- onflies and damselflies, including many illustra- tions, and identifies 27 of the most common species likely to be encountered in the eastern US. It even provides tips on collecting and han- dling the animals for closer inspection without harming them. There are close-focusing optics available for butterfly and close-in bird watching that also are suitable for getting a better look at dragonflies. Cynthia Berger includes references in her book on where to find these and other tools for observ- ing and attracting dragonflies. I’m kind of ashamed that I know most of the species of but- terflies that come to my yard, but I can’t identify the first dragonfly, other than to say it’s a dragon- fly. Inspired and educated by “Dragonflies,” that’s about to change. Why not enjoy a drag- Blue Dasher Photos by Bill Dupree, 59, and an Atlanta native, has been involved in amateur photography since grammar onfly ID project around your yard with the kids school. He now shoots digital and has a main interest in nature photography. or grandkids. After all, dragonflies are cool!

Page 4 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Louisiana Wildlife Federation Receives National Wildlife Federation Grant

Grant will help restore endangered red- neighborhood by remodeling old, dilapidat- Alexander State Forest to help compensate cockaded woodpecker populations ed homes,” said Randy Lanctot, Executive for the lack of available habitat that threatens Director of the Louisiana Wildlife this interesting bird. Washington, D.C. - The Louisiana Federation. “In this case, we will be remod- “The RCW’s peculiar nesting habit eling RCW ‘homes’ in the woodpeckers’ dictates that the species’ population will neighborhood.” always be relatively small and vulnerable,” The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is said Lanctot. “But this very specific habitat one of eight Species Recovery Fund grant requirement also presents opportunities to recipients this year selected from over 200 apply innovative conservation management applications submitted by conservation techniques such as our project of providing organizations and individuals throughout artificial nest cavity inserts.” the world. The Species Recovery Fund is an The project is being managed by Eric integral part of NWF’s national effort that Baka with the LDWF’s Natural Heritage seeks to raise awareness of and improve con- Program and will also include landowner ditions for endangered species. workshops hosted by the Louisiana Forestry “A critical component of conservation Association to educate forest owners who involves people taking action on a local level desire to manage for RCWs on their proper- to protect the wildlife and wild places they ty. know and love,” said Ron Ohrel, NWF’s Protecting wildlife through education and action since 1936, the National Wildlife Federation is America’s conservation organi- zation creating solutions that balance the needs of people and wildlife now and for future generations.

The red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) is perhaps Louisiana’s most controversial endangered species because of its habit of making its nest cavities in mature, live pine trees.

Wildlife Federation (LWF), a conservation education and advocacy organization work- ing to restore, preserve and develop wildlife resources in Louisiana, has been awarded a grant from the National Wildlife Federation’s (NWF) Species Recovery Fund. Species Recovery Fund manager. “These The LWF, in association with the Louisiana grants provide the means for local organiza- Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ tions to implement innovative, community- Natural Heritage Program and the Louisiana based wildlife conservation efforts that will Forestry Association, will use the grant to provide direct benefits for wildlife.” purchase and install artificial nest cavity A shortage of old-growth pine forests is inserts for the endangered red-cockaded the main cause of the red-cockaded wood- woodpecker (RCW). The Species Recovery pecker’s decline. RCW’s only use the boles Fund provides grants to organizations work- or trunks of mature live pine trees, many ing with local communities to provide with red heart fungus disease, to excavate direct, on-the-ground benefits to imperiled their nest cavities, but these trees have species. become scarce. The $5000 grant issued by Installing artificial nest cavity inserts such as this one is a “Installing these artificial nest cavity NWF will be used to install 39 artificial nest proven conservation management technique to maintain inserts is sort of like sustaining a human cavity inserts in 16 RCW clusters on the and restore red-cockaded woodpecker colonies.

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 5 Freedom to Hunt, Fish and Trap

The Louisiana Legislature has approved a The proposed amendment is supported events like the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo, and ballot initiative proposing a constitutional by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation (LWF) engaged in a billboard campaign against fish- amendment to include the freedom to hunt, and numerous other sportsmen’s and conser- ing and eating meat. The past two legislative fish and trap as a fundamental right of citizen- vation groups. According to LWF executive sessions have seen bills filed to criminalize ship in the Bayou State. SB 2, introduced by director, Randy Lanctot, amending the killing animals, which would have applied to Senator Joe McPherson (Woodworth) and Louisiana constitution as proposed by SB 2, the harvest of fish, game, fur, and even beef coauthored by 76 of his House and Senate col- “will be a confirmation of Louisiana’s rich cows,” Smith said. leagues, passed the legislative process without wildlife conservation heritage and, most According to Tara Mica, Government amendment or opposition. It will be on the importantly, help to fend off threats to that Relations Representative with the National November 2, 2004 general election ballot. heritage by anti-hunting/fishing factions and Rifle Association, another group supporting the proposed amendment, “Seven states, the most recent being Wisconsin in April of 2003, have included language in their constitutions to preserve the freedom to hunt, fish and trap. Similar proposals are pending in 8 other states besides Louisiana.” “The language of the proposed constitu- tional amendment is consistent with the authority and responsibility of the Legislature and the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to protect, conserve and manage the fish and wildlife resources of the state,” said McPherson. “It also addresses the concerns of private property owners that the ‘freedom to hunt, fish and trap’ not infringe their rights to restrict access to their property.” The pro- posed amendment closely tracks model lan- guage recommended by the U. S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, a national sportsmen’s rights advoca- Senator Joe McPherson, Representative Jack Smith, Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, LWF Executive Director Randy cy organization. Lanctot and National Rifle Association Government Relations Representative Tara Mica celebrate the final passage of the Specifically, the amendment proposes to SB 2, “Freedom to Hunt, Fish and Trap.” The proposed constitutional amendment will be on the ballot for the general add Section 27 to Article I of the Louisiana election on November 2nd. constitution stating: “The freedom to hunt, fish, and trap wildlife, including all aquatic The proposed constitutional amendment is well-intentioned but misinformed segments of life, traditionally taken by hunters, trappers based on the premise that hunting, fishing and the public.” and anglers, is a valued natural heritage that trapping are fundamental to citizenship in In explaining the purpose of the amend- shall be forever preserved for the people. Louisiana and that these activities were and are ment, LWF’s president, E. R. “Smitty” Smith Hunting, fishing and trapping shall be man- understood by both founding and current of New Iberia stated, “Attempts to curtail var- aged by law and regulation consistent with generations of Louisianans as intrinsic to life ious hunting, fishing and trapping activities Article IX, Section 1 of the constitution of in the “Sportsman’s Paradise” – the slogan have occurred in dozens of other states where Louisiana to protect, conserve and replenish emblazoned on vehicle license plates. the use of leghold traps, dogs for pursuing bear the natural resources of the state. The provi- SB 2 was McPherson’s third attempt to and cougar, bear management via regulated sions of this section shall not alter the burden give Louisiana citizens the opportunity to vote harvest, hunting on Sundays, and dove hunt- of proof requirements otherwise established by on the amendment. Prior efforts failed to ing have been challenged. Of growing con- law for any challenge to a law or regulation make it completely through the legislative cern are efforts to restrict fishing by making relating to hunting, fishing or trapping the process due to landowner concerns and a play certain waters off-limits without sound, sci- wildlife of the state, including all aquatic life. by officials of the state wildlife agency to use ence-based reasons.” Nothing contained herein shall be construed to the bill as leverage in a turf fight with the state “Extreme proponents of animal rights are authorize the use of private property to hunt, agriculture department. active in every state capital in the nation, grad- fish or trap without the consent of the owner of According to McPherson, his first two ually eroding long-held traditions of conserva- the property.” attempts were a learning experience. “This tion and wise utilization of fish and wildlife “This language confirms that citizens time we got it right,” he said. “It addresses all resources,” said Smith. “In Louisiana, groups have the fundamental freedom, or right, to legitimate concerns while maintaining the like PETA have petitioned for a ban on fishing engage in the harvest of fish and game and fur, original intent and integrity of the concept.” in Louisiana State Parks, protested fishing Continued on page 18

Page 6 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Lagniappe From the Executive Director

Since circumstances dictated that I including waterfowl. With everyone won- resources, but now you won’t be embarrassed devote most of my normal column space to dering “where are the ducks,” we need all the by peeling paint if you stop by for a visit. other matters, I have asked for a little more help we can get with providing productive At the April meeting of the LWF’s ink to cover some things I want you and all nesting grounds, and we sure shouldn’t be Executive Committee, Carl Gremillion and paying for conservation that we’re not get- past LWF president Wilson “Tibby” ting because FSA is not willing to enforce Thibodeaux presented the Federation with the agreements the American tax payer has both a contribution for the office renova- paid for. A settlement proposal has been tions and for the LWF Endowment Fund. offered by the plaintiffs for USDA’s consid- Not two be outdone, past LWF president eration. I’ll let you know how it comes out. Edgar Veillon also made a large contribution Besides the legislative session being to the endowment. The purpose of the over, some welcome news around here at the endowment is to provide financial support LWF office is that we have just completed for Federation projects and programs that much needed renovations to our office that cannot be funded from the organization’s have been a long time coming. A newly general treasury. It is steadily growing since enclosed back porch will allow us to better it was established a year ago. utilize the space in the main office, and the In the last issue of this magazine you new siding and some fresh paint on the win- may have noticed the extensive coverage of dow frames, and ironwork on the front the LWF annual convention, including porch, makes it a more worthy reflection of acknowledgment of sponsors and donors. the quality and accomplishments of our Try as we might to include everyone, organization. We’ll soon have a new sign to inevitably some things get lost in the final better identify our location at 337 S. preparations for printing the magazine. My Acadian Thruway in Baton Rouge. Thanks apologies and thanks to the Twin Creek Edgar Veillon (L) presents a check in the amount of $1,000 to board member Carl Gremillon with the Hunting Club and its president Wayne for the LWF Endowment Fund to Federation President Baton Rouge Sportsmen’s League who Hammons of Choudrant for their donation “Smitty” Smith. secured a competent contractor to do the job of a deer hunt on the Club’s property in Lincoln Parish as well as a framed turkey LWF members to know about. In June, the gobbler print and a package of deer hunting national Wildlife Federation and six of its lures, grunt calls and videos along with a affiliates including the Louisiana, Arkansas, deluxe gun cleaning kit that I wish now that Washington, Kansas, Indiana and South I would have bid on. The donations raised Dakota Wildlife Federations filed a lawsuit several hundred dollars at the Friday night in federal court challenging the implementa- auction and LWF is grateful for the dona- tion of the grazing exceptions in the tions and especially appreciative of the Club Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The members for their participation at the con- CRP has been a very popular and successful vention. We recognize that it’s a long drive program for reducing crop surpluses, con- from Choudrant to New Iberia. Thanks serving soil and water, and improving Wayne and fellows for supporting LWF with wildlife habitat on agricultural lands. your presents and your presence and sorry However, the exceptions to the normal pro- for the oversight. hibition on grazing of lands enrolled in CRP I’ll wrap up this “lagniappe” column that are allowed in hardship cases and under Carl Gremillion (L), Tibby and Smitty with the donations with a welcome and thank you to new LWF drought circumstances have been adminis- from the Baton Rouge Sportsmen’s League for the LWF members whose names follow on page 19, tered contrary to the intent of the program. Endowment Fund and to help with the office renovations, and a special thank you to those members Abuse of these exceptions by the Farm just completed. who have generously responded to our mid- Services Administration has, in many year appeal with a generous extra contribu- instances, negated the conservation benefits and inspected the work when it was finished. tion to help support what we do. These of the program while continuing to pay sub- Thanks also to the Baton Rouge Sportsmen’s donations have been especially vital to defray sidies to the owner for the agreement not to League for the large donation it made to the costs of the much needed office renova- hay or graze the land. How does that impact help cover the costs of the work. Georgia tions previously noted. Their names also fol- us in Louisiana? Well, aside from being a Pacific Corporation also made a generous low this column on page 19. Have a great waste and misuse of tax dollars, grazing and donation to assist with purchase of the new summer and watch for the signs of the sea- haying on lands the government has payed siding. Our office is still very modest and sons to come. the owners not to hay or graze adversely efficiently operated with a very low overhead affects the success of ground nesting birds, since we own the building and conserve our Continued on page 19

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 7 Charles, St. James, St. John the Louisiana Wildlife Federation BaptistParishes) Officers: Keith R. Saucier, 13086 She District 3 Ronnie P. Sonnier, 104 Hesper Lee Place, Gonzales, LA Dr., Carencro, LA 70520; President Elbridge R. “Smitty” Smith III 70737; (hm) 337 896-4536 415 Azalea Dr., New Iberia, 225 (res.) 647-6653 (wk.) mailto:[email protected] LA 70563; 337 (res.) 364-9341 242-5561 (fax) 677-7416 (Lafayette, Vermilion, St. mailto:[email protected] mailto:[email protected] Martin, Terrebonne, Iberia, St. Mary, Iberville, Assumption 1st-V.P. Kathy Wascom, 1255 Ivor van Heerden, Ph.D, Parishes) Aberdeen Ave., Baton Rouge, 29787 S. Satsuma Rd., LA 70808; 225 (res.) 344- District 4 Wayne Hammons, 354 Livingston 70754;(hm) 225 4313 (wk.) 231-3731 (fax) McFarland Rd. Choudrant, LA 686-0384, (wk) 225 578- 344-0014 71227; 318 (res.) 982-7185 5974 mailto:[email protected] (Caddo, Bossier, Webster, Claiborne, Lincoln, Bienville, 2nd-VP Jay V. Huner, Ph.D, 200 Jackson Parishes) Edgar F. Veilloon, Merchant’s Blvd., Apt. 137, Rep. to NWF, 5 Lafayette, LA 70508; 337 District Ann B. Smith, 306 K 905 Harrison Ave., (res.) 234-0682 St., Monroe, LA 71201; 318 Metarie, LA 70005; 504 (res) (wk.) 394-7508 342-1144, (fax) 318 342-1149 833-9298 (wk) 454-1212 mailto:[email protected] mailto:[email protected] (fax) 885-4887 (Union, Morehouse, East mailto:[email protected] Secretary Ken Dancak, Ph.D, 224 Carroll, West Carroll, Shady Crest Lane, Pineville, Ouachita, Richland, Executive Director LA 71360; 318/487-8879 Madison, Caldwell, Franklin, (fax) 318/473-7117 Randy P. Lanctot, P. O . B o x Tensas Parishes) mailto:[email protected] 65239 Audubon Station, District 6 Ivor van Heerden PhD, 29787 Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239 South Satsuma, Livingston, LA Treasurer Eugene J. Dauzat, Jr., 608 Office: 337 South Acadian 70754; 225 (res.) 686-0384; Meursault Dr., Kenner, LA Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA (wk.) 578-5974 70065; 504 (res.) 468-8408 70806; 225 (wk.) 344-6762 mailto:[email protected] mailto:[email protected] (fax) 344-6707 (res.) 346- (Washington, Tangipahoa, St. 0752 Helena, Livingston, Ascension, Executive Committee: mailto:[email protected] East Feliciana, West Feliciana, Above 5 Officers and 4 Persons Listed Below: East Baton Rouge, West Baton Joe L. Herring, 1021 Rodney District Vice-Presidents: Rouge, Pointe Coupee Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808; Parishes) District 1 Vacant (St. Tammany, 225 (res.) 766-0519 District 7 Jerome C. Haas, Jr., 52 Orleans, St. Bernard, Horseshoe Lane, Sulphur, LA Plaquemines Parishes) 70663; 337/625-4232 mailto:[email protected] (Beauregard, Allen, Calcasieu, District 2 Clinton Mouser, 4428 Toby Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Lane, Metairie, LA 70003; Acadia Parishes) 504 (res.) 887-8475 mailto:[email protected] District 8 Rick Bryan, 2405 Evergreen (Jefferson, Lafourche, St. Ln., Pineville, LA 70663; 318 640-0198; mailto:[email protected] (Grant, LaSalle, Catahoula, Concordia, Rapides, Avoyelles, Evangeline, St. Landry Parishes) District 9 Sharon Miller, 345 Point 3 Dr., Florien, LA 71429; 318/565-4990 mailto:[email protected] (DeSoto, Red River, Sabine, Natchitoches, Winn, Vernon Parishes)

Page 8 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Public Comment Requested on LCA EIS Executive Director: Continued from page 3

The New Orleans District, U.S. Army of on-going maintenance dredging to restore the demeanor of the speakers and the audi- Corps of Engineers, and the Louisiana barrier islands and, in some cases, supplement ence was respectful and the messages were Department of Natural Resources have river water reintroductions and would cost upbeat and positive and a responsible dis- announced the availability of the draft about $100 million over the next 10 years. play of democracy. At the close of this col- Louisiana Coastal Area (LCA), Louisiana- - Programmatic authority for modifica- umn, I have printed the speech I prepared Ecosystem Restoration Study report and tions to existing structures to achieve cost- for the rally. Please read it and decide if the Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact effective, expedited restoration benefits and charges made by the “Louisiana Sportsman” Statement (DPEIS) for public review and would cost about $10 million over the next columnist are worthy. For the record, the comment. The DPEIS and draft report are 10 years. Louisiana Wildlife Federation, by its orga- located at www.lca.gov. They are also avail- - Approval of an implementation plan of nizing documents, cannot and will not able, on CD or hard copy, on request to Dr. ten additional near-term critical restoration engage in electoral politics, and it is a mis- William P. Klein Jr., 504-862-2540. The features using the standard authorization construction to represent LWF’s association comment period is open for 45 days, from process at an estimated cost of about $730 with this rally as such. July 9 through August 23, 2004. Comments million. One of the other charges made by the should be mailed, postmarked no later than - Approval of a proposed plan for assess- “Louisiana Sportsman” columnist suggested August 23, 2004. (On the DPEIS to Dr. ing potentially promising large-scale restora- that during the recent legislative session William P. Klein, Jr.; CEMVN-PM-RS; P.O. tion concepts at an estimated cost of about LWF pursued the adoption of legislation Box 60267; New Orleans, La. 70160-0267. $60 million. The LCA Study report and a that would have allowed more commercial Questions: 504-862-2540.) (On the LCA final programmatic EIS are scheduled for netting while ignoring a bill that would have Study Report to Tim Axtman; CEMVN-PM- completion in December 2004. Inclusion of taken away the opportunity for hunters to C; P.O. Box 60267; New Orleans, LA 70160- the report’s components in theWater harvest a bobcat during the deer season. 0267; Questions: 504-862-1921.) Resources Development Act currently under Not true, and here’s why. Via resolutions As required by the National consideration by Congress will give the Corps adopted at the LWF’s annual meetings over Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), a series of and State the go-ahead to begin implementa- the past several years, LWF supports the public meetings requesting comments on the tion of this critical restoration effort. allowance of fishing for mullet at night dur- DPEIS and the draft LCA Study Report will PUBLIC MEETINGS: Open House ing the mullet season, and the harvest of also be jointly hosted by the Corps and State (general information about the LCA program bobcat by recreational hunters provided that during the comment period. The draft report and process), 6:30 - 7:30 pm; overview of the research by the Louisiana Department of proposes a $2.0 billion multi-component, proposed LCA Ecosystem Restoration Plan Wildlife and Fisheries determines that there near-term and long-term approach to followed by a question and answer session, is a surplus of bobcats that can be harvested addressing the most critical ecological needs 7:30 pm; formal public comments on the without adverse effect on the population. of Louisiana’s coast. These critical natural and DPEIS and draft Study Report. The reasons for supporting mullet fishing at human ecological needs include: preventing Tuesday, July 27, 2004 - Chalmette, LA; night are explained in the resolution which predicted future land loss, restoring connec- Fredrick J. Sigur Civic Center; 8245 West is printed following this column. It is worth tions to river sediment resources in degrading Judge Perez Drive; Chalmette, LA. noting that the legislation that was filed this areas, restoring endangered geomorphic Wednesday, July 28, 2004 - Cameron, LA; year to permit limited nighttime fishing for structures such as specific barrier island reach- Cameron Parish Police Jury; 110 Smith mullet (HB 1172) was also filed last year, at es and protecting socioeconomic resources. Circle; Cameron, LA. Thursday, July 29, which time the legislation was supported by The draft LCA report includes a proposal for: 2004 - Beaumont, TX ; Beaumont Hilton; the LDWF’s enforcement division and the - Programmatic authority for five near- 2355 I-10 South; Beaumont, TX. Tuesday, LDWF secretary who testified to the House term critical restoration features that would August 3, 2004 - Larose, LA; Larose Civic Natural Resources Committee that the provide significant restoration benefits for the Center; 307 East 5th Street; Larose, LA. agency could enforce the laws as well or bet- most critical areas of the coast, are presently in Wednesday, August 4, 2004 - New Iberia, ter if mullet fishing was restricted to the the initial design study phase and would cost LA; Cyr - Gates Community Center; 300 nighttime hours proposed by the legislation. about $786 million. Parkview Drive; New Iberia, LA. Thursday, The Louisiana Wildlife Federation’s support - Authorization of a science and technol- August 5, 2004 - Mandeville, LA; Mandeville of this legislation is based on biologically- ogy program that would provide scientific Community Center; 3090 East; Causeway sound fisheries management, the efficiency data and technological tools to facilitate effec- Approach; Mandeville, LA. Monday, August of the LDWF in enforcing the law and pro- tive program implementation and would cost 9, 2004 - Alexandria, LA; Best Western of tecting our fish resources, and the desire to about $100 million over the next 10 years. Louisiana; 2720 MacArthur Drive; encourage more productive harvest of mul- - Authorization of science and technolo- Alexandria, LA. Tuesday, August 10, 2004 - let while reducing the potential for conflicts gy demonstration projects to resolve critical Bay St. Louis, LA; Hancock County Civic between user groups on the water. To scientific and engineering uncertainties and Center; 3066 Longfellow Drive; Bay St. charge otherwise is an opinion not support- would cost about $175 million over the next Louis, MS. Thursday, August 12, 2004 - ed by the facts. The bobcat legislation, also 10 years. Memphis, TN; Radisson Hotel Memphis; referred to by the “Louisiana Sportsman” - Programmatic authority for the benefi- 185 Union Street, Memphis; Memphis, TN. columnist, would have repealed a 2003 law cial use of dredged material to take advantage that authorized the Louisiana Wildlife and

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 9 Fisheries Commission to set a bobcat hunt- and home plate, or maybe a long drive down the ing season. LWF didn’t testify in opposition WHEREAS, there is no research that fairway, from where we stand, to see one of to the bill when it was first heard in com- indicates that the prohibition of night fish- the main reasons why we are so unique, so mittee because the bill’s author explained ing for mullet is a necessary conservation blessed. The Big River brings commerce and that his intent was to require a delay in the measure, and wealth. It joins us with half the Nation. It continuation of the season until the LDWF WHEREAS, there are approximately built our coastal wetlands that, along with could perform the study previously request- 560 licensed mullet strike net fishermen the piney woods and river bottoms, make us ed by the Legislature to assure the bobcat (271 licenses were issued in the most recent the Sportsman’s Paradise. The River con- population would not be put at risk. Since fishing season)* who fish in well-known and nects us to the nation, but we have lost that that was consistent with LWF’s resolution, defined coastal waters, and connection to ourselves. One of the greatest we did not oppose the bill in the Senate WHEREAS, to harvest mullet at night, conservation challenges of the century will Natural Resources Committee but agreed to high intensity spotlights are used to spot the be the strategic restoration of that connectiv- work with the committee chairman and the schools and when the nets are hauled in, and ity, to keep our state whole. We need lead- bill’s author on appropriate language to therefore mullet fishing activity is conspicu- ership and help at the highest levels of gov- reflect that intent. The LDWF provided a ous and relatively easy to locate and discern, ernment to meet that challenge. review of historical data from harvest records and Recreational and commercial fishing in support of continuing the season, and WHEREAS, Louisiana Department of drives an economy in Louisiana of over a bil- agreed to use the bobcat hunting season har- Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement officers lion dollars annually. Nearly a quarter of our vest data to evaluate the impact of the hunt- have modern equipment such as night vision citizens engage in recreational fishing to gen- ing season on the bobcat population and to scopes, radar, and aerial observation capabil- erate the lion’s share of that contribution to evaluate its status in Louisiana. ities to effectively monitor fishing operations the state’s economy. But good fishing Subsequently, the bill died on the Senate cal- at night, and depends on having a place to fish; access to endar without further debate. LWF’s WHEREAS, to respond to the chang- the resource. That access has been declining involvement was consistent with its resolu- ing markets for mullet roe and stay in busi- as anglers and commercial fishermen have tion, its conservation mission and we were ness it is advantageous for mullet fishermen been excluded from waters historically avail- effective in achieving an outcome that makes to have the capability to increase the pro- able to them. It has become a problem and sure the bobcat population is conserved and duction of roe, which they can do if allowed a danger, and we need the help of our lead- managed without curtailing the opportunity to fish at night, while not exceeding harvest ers in government and the conservation and for a limited harvest. Those are the facts limits necessary to sustain the fishery and landowner communities to resolve this from an eye witness, not the excretions of a conserve the resource, and growing threat to fishing in the Sportsman’s “Louisiana Sportsman” columnist. WHEREAS, the mesh size for mullet Paradise. Some steps are being taken here at Please accept my apology for taking up strike nets of 3”-stretched allows smaller fish the capitol this legislative session, but the so much of your time with this. For your to escape thereby preserving the resource, resolve must be strong to follow through, to information and encouragement, the afore- and defend and insure the rights of citizens to mentioned resolution and “speech” follows. WHEREAS, studies by the Louisiana respectfully access and use their resources Thanks for your patience and support. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries indi- while respecting the valid rights of private cate that bycatch of other species in the mul- ownership. In the meantime, negotiations SUBJECT: NIGHT FISHING FOR let strike net fishery is minimal. are needed to reopen coastal beaches to fish- MULLET DURING THE SEASON THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED ing, birding and camping. After all, who are that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation sup- we trying to save the coast for? It’s an eco- WHEREAS, the mullet season current- ports amending the law/regulation govern- nomic development issue and it is the appro- ly runs for approximately 66 days, and ing the mullet strike net fishery to allow priate role of government to facilitate these WHEREAS, night-time fishing for night-time fishing for mullet during the opportunities for our citizens. mullet was prohibited in 1995 by the gill net mullet season. There’s really a lot to say about fishing ban law, and since that time the harvest of in a “water state” like Louisiana. It’s a sad mullet has decreased, and LWF Presentation Prepared for the but true fact, however, that many of our WHEREAS, mullet populations in Economy/Environment waters are contaminated with mercury. Louisiana waters are healthy (SPR range of “Rally” Held May 20, 2004 Twenty-nine, and counting, waterbodies in 31 to 38 for the most heavily fished areas the state have fish consumption advisories east of the Mississippi River, according to Welcome, visitors, to our home... a against eating certain species of fish. It’s a the most recent LDWF data: SPR is expect- place we love. A place blessed with abun- shame to have to worry about impairing the ed to be higher in the lightly fished waters dance, nurturing a culture with the joie de health of your grandchildren with the fish west of the River)*, and vive, where we laissez les bon temps rouler, you bring home for the Sunday afternoon WHEREAS, allowing mullet fishermen where we still offer a little lagniappe. It’s no fish fry. Something’s not right about that, to fish at night will increase efficiency in har- accident we are the way we are. Louisiana is especially here in the Sportsman’s Paradise. vesting mullet, and blessed richly with abundance. We are We need the help of our leaders in govern- WHEREAS, allowing night-time mul- unique among the states in this respect. Our ment and industry to reduce the amount of let fishing will reduce the potential for con- economy has developed and depends upon mercury that is being emitted and dis- flicts with recreational anglers who fish the this endowment of natural resources. You Continued on page 18 same waters primarily during daylight hours, only have to look West, a long throw to Page 10 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Taking a Look at Coastal Restoration With so much emphasis on “saving the rollercoastering down to the Ohio, the and the wetlands serve as the onshore base that coast” for the past 30 years, it’s understandable Tennessee, the Wisconsin, Illinois, Des provides logistical support for 75% of the that eyes begin to glaze over when the next Moines or Arkansas, the Missouri, the Red – oil/gas prospects in the Gulf of Mexico. round of planning and projects is announced. on to the Big River as it bends and curls back Roads, domestic water supplies and com- It’s urgent, of course. Was then, is now. Much on itself, down to the Gulf of Mexico. munities that are home to 2 million people are has already been done, but the loss continues. When you arrive on the Delta you join threatened by the loss of MRCD wetlands. Partly, it’s “natural.” Partly, we’ve messed up pieces and parts of the rest of America, nour- The navigation capacity of waterways the system that created and maintained coastal ishing a landscape that is more waterscape, currently carrying 16% of the Nation’s water- Louisiana. It took care of itself until we decid- thronging with birds and fish and wetlands as borne commerce and the viability of 4 ports ed we wanted to be dry, prosper economically, far as you can see. Someone says “Como se va, that, combined, handle more tonnage than plan for the future, have access to and exploit mon cher?” (“How are you, my friend?”), and any single port in the world is jeopardized by all those abundant natural resources that had you are home – home to the coastal delta of the loss of MRCD wetlands. accumulated over the eons, especially energy the Mississippi River, an ecosystem so There are over 500,000 acres of state and resources. The old Native American model of immense it is difficult to know and compre- national wildlife refuges in Louisiana’s coastal following the abundance of Nature but getting hend by experience – so vast, productive, and zone; 5 million migratory waterfowl winter in out of the way of harm — coexistence, so to unique in America that it only can be com- Louisiana – 50% of the waterfowl using the speak, was too silly for “modern folks” bent on pared to itself.* Mississippi Flyway and 20% of waterfowl “manifest destiny.” People have always come to the Delta to using all flyways. (In past years, up to 84% of So, we find ourselves with our hands out, experience the bounty – the food, fun, revelry Mississippi Flyway migratory waterfowl have asking for the help of the rest of the nation. – to unwind. They know it by “Laissez les bon wintered in Louisiana.) The ongoing massive We may or may not get it. Regardless, we have temps rouler”, by the good times. It’s no acci- disintegration of MRCD wetlands threatens to help ourselves, and the first step should be dent, or merely a consequence of aggressive this world class habitat for migratory birds and to adopt a new way of looking at the tourism promotion. It’s the cultural manifes- the nursery for coastal and Gulf of Mexico fish Mississippi River Coastal Delta (MRCD). tation of the natural abundance served up by that supports the entire Gulf region. Actually, it’s an old way, the way of those who the River and the wetlands. Estimates of the value of the natural resources lived with the River and the coast before we To experience this immense ecosystem, that will be lost over the next 50 years due to came. The coast and River have always been you have to get in a boat, maybe a pirogue, coastal wetland loss range up to $100 billion moving and changing. That is the reality of it, and get out in it; but it can be rough going. dollars. despite our attempts to keep it from being so. This is no “prairie pothole”. It goes on for The loss of Mississippi River coastal delta To think that the physical coast can be stabi- thousands of acres and scores of miles as far as wetlands is due primarily to the alteration of lized is folly and does not lead to a realistic you can see. The first thing you notice, after the natural geology and hydrodynamics that vision of the future or informed decisions to the aroma of flatsedge and marsh grass and created the ecosystem. Channels and levees get us there. We may be able to restore, in mudflats and brine (depending on where in for navigation and flood protection have dis- part, the system that created and is continuing the complex you happen to be) is the life; the rupted the capability of the system to maintain to shape coastal Louisiana, but we must adopt birds – rails, stilts, waterfowl, herons/egrets, itself. The River, which once overflowed its an attitude that will allow us to reconcile our seagulls, terns, pelicans and masses of other banks on a routine basis, now is confined to a expectations and the necessary changes we will waders and shorebirds. There are gators aplen- channel all the way to the deep water at the have to make, as individuals and as a society, ty in the fresh and intermediate wetlands, edge of the continental shelf where its load is to achieve a sustainable coast. If not, we can’t more than anywhere else in the world. And discharged and lost to the fathoms of the Gulf. expect much help from outside our state. bugs, of course – the food chain has to have its Therefore, the freshwater and sediment that It will be a challenge to win the support underclass. And, in season, there’s solitude, built the MRCD wetlands are no longer avail- of the nation, even if we can show we are ready serenity, sunrise and sunset punctuated with able to sustain them, to offset their natural to make the necessary changes and sacrifices, the often silent trading of the delta’s depen- erosion and subsidence. These facts make and our plans are worthy. To that end, how dent creatures. coastal restoration using the River and its would you explain the essence, the importance When its extent and biological produc- freshwater and sediment doable, if we’re ready. of the Mississippi River Coastal Delta in a way tivity is considered, it is very apparent that this That’s the plan. that connects with the hearts and minds of the is an ecological engine of enormous propor- * The Mississippi River has created American people? tions, a “bread and butter” ecosystem with no and supports more coastal wetlands than Close your eyes and imagine this beauti- match in the “Lower 48” – and it’s fading occur anywhere else in the contiguous 48 ful, wonderful country of ours – ocean to away – inexorably, insidiously, sometimes rad- states. World rank of the Mississippi ocean, border to border. Imagine you are a ically when the gulf gets nasty. River/tributaries in volume of discharge - 6th, drop of rain or flake of snow gathering a little The continuing loss of MRCD wetlands sediment discharge - 3rd, length - 2nd , aerial bit of prairie soil, of Rocky Mountain granite, presents a severe threat to the infrastructure extent of drainage basin - 3rd (receiving sur- of piney woods’ sand, or a tiny piece of gold- necessary to develop and transport energy face water runoff from 31 states and 3 en leaf born deep in a hardwood cove at the resources. Pipelines traversing the wetlands Canadian provinces or 41 % of contiguous foot of the Appalachians, caught in a torrent, supply 30% of the Nation’s refining capacity US).

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 11 Recap - 2004 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature

Over 3000 bills and resolutions were Perhaps the most significant legislation “consumptive” user groups should not be introduced to the 2004 Regular Session of for sportsmen was SB 2 proposing a consti- given priority over “nonconsumptive” users the Louisiana Legislature which adjourned tutional amendment guaranteeing all citizens by provision of the constitution. Again, the June 21st, down by over 25% from previous the “Freedom to Hunt, Fish and Trap.” This existing Article 9, Section 1 of the Louisiana general sessions. The Louisiana Wildlife will be on the November 2 general election Constitution, which is integral to the pro- Federation monitored about 250 of these ballot. Some naysayers are already challeng- posed amendment, requires conservation and instruments that pertained to the quality of ing the wisdom of this proposition that was protection sufficient to sustain fish and the environment, natural resources, and the passed by the Legislature without opposition wildlife resources which in turn sustains use and enjoyment of the outdoors and relat- (See page 6 for the story on this legislation.), “nonconsumptive” uses of these resources. In ed natural resources. Slightly over 100 of saying that it could be used to justify use of essence, “Freedom to Hunt, Fish and Trap” these were finally adopted and are posted on private property without permission, affect will protect your right to continue to engage the LWF’s website at “Legislative Report” protection of endangered species, and chal- in fishing, hunting and trapping activities under “What We Do.” To view the complete lenge restrictions prohibiting the use of cer- that can currently be taken away just because text of a specific piece of legislation, go to the tain gear to take fish and game, such as nets. the Legislature and/or the LWFC have the Legislature’s website at www.legis.state.la.us All of these concerns are addressed in the spe- authority to do it, regardless of any conserva- and enter the bill or resolution # of interest. cific language of the proposed amendment tion need or purpose, or social benefit of such As usual, there were numerous “house- which is: “The freedom to hunt, fish, and action. It also will serve to reconfirm our rich keeping” bills that made technical changes or trap wildlife, including all aquatic life, tra- heritage as hunters, fishers and trappers in clarified intent of existing statutes, rules and ditionally taken by hunters, trappers and Louisiana. programs. Several bills will bring more sig- anglers, is a valued natural heritage that There are several other bills of interest. nificant changes including HB 736 that shall be forever preserved for the people. HB 2 includes important funding for some returns Class I violations of wildlife and fish- Hunting, fishing and trapping shall be man- conservation projects and habitat acquisi- eries laws to the criminal category from the aged by law and regulation consistent with tions. It also proposes funding for numerous civil category where it had been for the past Article IX, Section 1 of the constitution of reservoir projects, some of which are likely to 14 years; HB 1192 that transfers responsibil- Louisiana to protect, conserve and replenish have significant adverse impacts on scenic ity to manage and regulate aquaculture to the the natural resources of the state. The provi- steams and wildlife habitat. HB 105 sub- Department of Agriculture and Forestry sions of this section shall not alter the burden stantially increases the recreational catfish from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife of proof requirements otherwise established limit on Toledo Bend Reservoir for the next and Fisheries (LDWF); SB 117 that will pro- by law for any challenge to a law or regula- 4 years. HB 601 allows the limited taking of vide more reliable funding for the reward tion relating to hunting, fishing or trapping bait shrimp with bait seine and dip net dur- program for turning in poachers and other the wildlife of the state, including all aquatic ing the closed and open shrimp season. HB fish and wildlife law violators; SB 118 that life. Nothing contained herein shall be con- 606 allows residents 60 years of age or older revises the management of the White Lake strued to authorize the use of private proper- to buy a Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Preserve (see page 21 for the full story) ; and ty to hunt, fish or trap without the consent of License for $50. HB 651 raises the fee on oil SB 310 that allows the use of expropriation, the owner of the property.” and gas production to support the Oilfield as necessary, to expedite coastal restoration The concern about trespassing is Site Restoration Program. HB 682 autho- projects. answered by the last sentence of the amend- rizes the LWFC to implement a tagging and Although resolutions do not have the ment and reinforces the right of landowners harvest record program for deer and turkey, effect of law, several addressed issues of major to control access on the property they own. subject to legislative oversight. HB 695 pro- concern including closing the Mississippi The reference to Article 9, Section 1 of the hibits the feeding of bears. SB 120 adds sev- River Gulf Outlet (HCRs 35 & 65); enforce- constitution addresses both the endangered eral streams in Southwest Louisiana to the ment powers of employees of the LDWF species and the gear prohibition concerns Natural and Scenic Rivers System. SB 433 (HCR 305 & SR 116); identification of state because it binds law and regulation governing establishes the Louisiana Aquatic Invasive lands and waterbottoms and guaranteeing hunting, fishing and trapping to the state’s Species Council and Task Force to address public access to public waters for boating and obligation to “protect, conserve and replen- aquatic invasive species issues in the state. fishing (SCRs 24 & 25); reduction of mer- ish” the natural resources of the state. This is cury in the environment (SCR 62); incen- the constitutional provision the state used to A more complete listing follows. tives for the conservation of coastal forests successfully defend a 1995 law that prohibits House Bills (SCR 75); saltwater fisheries policy and man- the use of gill nets in coastal waters. One agement (SCR 107) and conservation of the other complaint heard is that fish and HB 1 by Alario. APPROPRIATIONS. alligator snapping turtle (SR 49). wildlife resources are public resources and Governor’s executive budget – $40,357,674

Page 12 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 ($17,793,266 general fund [GF]), 113 posi- Mississippi River levees. that all barrier island restoration projects sub- tions; Dept of Agriculture & Forestry – HB 105 (ACT 237) by Salter. TOLE- ject to public bid include appropriate dredges $105,578,128 ($27,476,488 GF), 831 posi- DO BEND CHANNEL CATS. Provides to stabilize and preserve barrier islands; tions; Office of State Parks – $23,510,413 that from July 1, 2004 through June 30, requires submission of barrier island preser- ($21,702,703 GF), 372 positions; Dept. of 2008 the recreational possession limit for all vation and stabilization projects by coastal Natural Resources: Atchafalaya Basin species of catfish taken on Toledo Bend parishes for the secretary of the Department Program – $747,5134 GF, 4 positions; Reservoir shall be 125 in the aggregate, of Natural Resources to review and prioritize, Office of Coastal Restoration & including up to 50 catfish under the size subject to legislative oversight with project Management – $67,852,796, 146 positions; limit. funding coming from the Barrier Island Dept. of Environmental Quality – HB 106 (ACT 238) by Farrar. BOAT- Stabilization and Preservation Fund. $140,718,996 ($7,570,000 GF), 1,021 posi- ING/NO WAKE ZONES. Defines “no HB 450 (ACT 211) by Odinet. OYS- tions; Department of Wildlife & Fisheries – wake” zones and establishes such zones with- TER VIOLATION. Restricts any person $88,304,918 ($80,000 GF), 794 positions / in 300 feet of public boat launches and dock- convicted of a violation pertaining to the har- 261 Enforcement Division ($20,968,178), ing facilities. vest of oysters to harvesting oysters from a 213 Office of Wildlife ($31,936,343), 226 HB 117 (ACT 240) by Jack Smith. vessel equipped with a vessel monitoring sys- Office of Fisheries ($21,988,916). CRAB TRAPS. Exempts crab traps fished tem for the year following the conviction and HB 2 by Hammett. CAPITAL OUT- north of the northern bank of the requires that LDWF have access to the mon- LAY. Provides for the capital spending bud- Intracoastal Waterway and west of LA Hwy. itoring system and that the person convicted get of state government; includes 70 from the requirement of marking the trap of the violation notify LDWF which vessel $51,240,000 in Priority 1 (P1), $6,635,000 with a float and float line. he will be using to harvest oysters. in Priority 2 (P2), $1,700,000 in Priority 3 HB 160 (ACT 479) by Frith. OYS- HB 595 (ACT 94) by Jack Smith. (P 3), $1,700,000 in Priority 4 (P4) and TERS/CALCASIEU LAKE. Provides for SPORTSMAN’S LICENSE/RECRE- $44,415,000 in Priority 5 (P5) bond funding the use of hand dredges and scrapers of 36’ ATIONAL TRAWLS. Specifies that the for various acquisition, planning and con- bar, in addition to tongs, in taking oysters recreational trawl gear license is not included struction (AP&C) for parks and other facili- from Calcasieu Lake and sets the daily har- in the suite of hunting and fishing activities ties administered by the Office of State Parks; vest limit at 15 sacks per vessel; authorizes the authorized by the Sportsman’s Paradise $800,000 P1, $300,000 P2 and $1,700,000 LWFC to manage East Cove and West Cove License. P5 bond funding for AC&P for Allen Parish of Calcasieu Lake separately. HB 596 (ACT 95) by Jack Smith. Reservoir, $475,000 GF, $4,750,000 P1, HB 168 (ACT 86) by Jack Smith. GEAR LICENSE TRANSFER. Authorizes $500,000 P2 and $1,000,000 P5 bond fund- SHAD SEINE. Authorizes the use of a shad the temporary transfer of a commercial gear ing for AC&P for Poverty Point Reservoir seine to commercially take shad and skipjack license to a person who holds a commercial (Richland), $400,000 P1, $100,000 P2 and herring and any other legal size freshwater fishing license provided the transferee has the $200,000 P5 bond funding for Ouachita commercial fish during the season, including same residency status as the transferor; pro- Water Supply Reservoir, $100,000 P1, on weekends; further authorizes the use of vides the same temporary transfer privilege as $400,000 P2 and $1,000,000 P5 bond fund- shad seines at night from February 1- June 30 regards recreational gear licenses to persons ing for Castor Creek-Little River Reservoir in St. Landry Parish and in the Atchafalaya holding a recreational fishing license. (LaSalle), $300,000 P1 bond funding for fea- River from Old River to the Intracoatstal HB 597 (ACT 96) by Jack Smith. sibility study for New Morehouse Reservoir, Waterway including the Whisky Bay Pilot COMMERCIAL FISHING. Provides that $600,000 P1, $350,000 P2, $1,250,000 P3, Channel and in the Mississippi River from the possession of a commercial fishing license $1,250,000 P4 and $1,200,000 P5 bond the Old River Control Structure to the aboard a vessel subjects all fish and persons funding for feasibility, planning and con- Sunshine Bridge. aboard that vessel to all applicable commer- struction for Washington Parish Reservoir, HB 201 by Dartez. FRESHWATER cial fishing regulations pertaining to seasons, $1,415,000 P1, $500,000 P2, $3,900,000 NETS. Adjusts the boundary for use of limits, and size restrictions if the fish are P3, $4,000,000 P4 and $500,000 P5 bond recreational wire and hoop nets to take fresh- taken for commercial purposes or in quanti- funding for AC&P for Bayou Dechene water commercial fish to north of I-10 (from ties in excess of the recreational limit. Reservoir (Caldwell), $35,000 P1 bond north of Hwy. 190) from Baton Rouge to HB 598 (ACT 97) by Dartez. CAMP funding for planning and construction for Ragley; allows the use of shad gill nets in NETS/TRAWLS. Requires nets and trawls Bayou De l’Outre Reservoir; $8,830,000 P1, Lakes Verret and Palourde at night during the attached to a wharf or camp and left unat- $5,987,000 P3, $5,987,000 P4 and season. tended to be marked with a tag issued by the $4,500,000 P5 bond funding for the HB 415 by Jack Smith. CRAB LDWF for the gear being fished. Atchafalaya Basin Program; $7,500,000 P5 LICENSE MORATORIUM. Halts entry HB 599 (ACT 50) by G. Smith. bond funding and $500,000 Duck Stamp into the commercial crab fishery for 2005 by BAYOU TREPAGNIER REMEDIATION. Fund, and $1,000,000 Wildlife Habitat and limiting issuance of crab gear licenses during Exempts any activities for the purpose of Natural Heritage Trust funding for LDWF that time to persons who held crab trap gear remediating contamination in Bayou for wildlife habitat acquisition. licenses in 2002, 2003 or before Nov. 15 in Trepagnier from permit requirements of the HB 79 (ACT 82) by Hutter. LEVEE 2004. Scenic Rivers Act. WALKING & BIKE PATHS. Adds St. HB 429 (ACT 407) by Dove. BARRI- HB 600 (ACT 98) by Jack Smith. Bernard and Plaquemines to the 9 other ER ISLAND STABILIZATION. Requires EXOTIC FISH. Authorizes the LWFC to parishes where bike paths/walkways are DNR to establish a barrier island stabiliza- designate non-native species of fish as exotic authorized for construction on the top of tion and preservation program and to require and provide for regulations for taking such Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 13 fish under permit. vides that a youth under 16 years of age must HB 846 by Morrish. TIRE FEE. HB 601 (ACT 161) by Baldone. BAIT have proof of successfully completing a Extends the collection of the fee on tires from SHRIMP SEINE. Authorizes the taking of hunter safety course or be under the direct the sale of new tires to the sale of all tires for up to 50 pounds per boat of saltwater bait supervision of a person 18 years of age or the purpose of the Waste Tire Cleanup shrimp during the closed season and up to older who possesses a hunting license or Program and provides additional guidance 100 pounds during the open season by a proof of successfully completing a hunter for the administration of the program. recreational fisherman with a inch-stretched safety course in order to hunt. HB 849 by Farrar. ATVS / WMAS. mesh, 30’ bait seine or a 3’ diameter dip net, HB 651 (ACT 412) by Pierre. OIL- Requires LDWF to allow year round use by provided the shrimp are not sold and are used FIELD SITE RESTORATION FEE. ATVs, motorcycles, horses, and bicycles of at for bait or personal consumption. Increases the fee from 1 cent to 1 1⁄2 cents least one ATV trail on each WMA that has HB 602 (ACT 162) by Daniel. BAIT per barrel of oil produced and from .2 to .3 such trail, subject to temporary closure for SHRIMP DEALERS FEE/INSIDE-OUT- cent per thousand cubic feet of gas produced safety or environmental reasons, provided SIDE LINE. Creates a $100 live bait shrimp to support the Oilfield Site Restoration persons using such trails possess a WMA use dealers annual permit with revenues dedicat- Program. permit. ed to the bait dealers program and revises the HB 652 (ACT 768) by Pierre. OIL- HB 885 by Beard. RECLAIMED inside/outside waters line for shrimping. FIELD SITE RESTORATION FUND. WATER USE. Exempts from discharge per- HB 603 (ACT 126) by Pierre. Increases the amount from the Oilfield Site mit the use of reclaimed water from a munic- FRESHWATER SHRIMPING. Provides Restoration Fund that can be used to admin- ipal wastewater treatment system for spray for the taking of freshwater shrimp (river ister the OSR program from $475k to irrigation; further provides for contracts to shrimp) in the Mississippi River and $750k. provide such services. Intracoastal Waterway within 1 miles of the HB 653 (ACT 221) by Pierre. OYS- HB 950 (ACT 390) by Gallot. CLAI- boat ramp at the Port Allen Locks; specifies TER SAMPLING BY DNR. Authorizes BORNE WATERSHED DISTRICT. the type of net that can be used and how it DNR to sample oyster leases to make deter- Revises the provisions of the Claiborne Parish must be marked and requires a $25 gear fee minations relative to the coastal restoration Watershed District and expands its authority for use of the net in addition to a commercial program. to construct, maintain and improve works to fishing license; further specifies that only HB 669 (ACT 229) by Pierre. OIL- control, divert and use water and manage freshwater shrimp may be taken and no other FIELD RESTORATION PROGRAM. and control surface and groundwater levels fish may be possessed while freshwater Clarifies the process for recovering costs from per approval of the Groundwater shrimping; authorizes the LWFC to adopt responsible parties for cleaning up orphaned Management Commission. rules and regulations authorizing commercial wells and abandoned sites. HB 975 (ACT 541) by Gallot. LAKE freshwater shrimping in other areas, and to HB 682 by Townsend. CLAIBORNE FISHING. Authorizes the set seasons for such activities. DEER/TURKEY HARVEST RECORDS. LWFC to regulate the recreational and com- HB 606 by Jack Smith. SENIOR Authorizes the LWFC to promulgate rules to mercial use of nets and traps to take fish in LIFETIME HUNTING/FISHING implement a tagging and harvest record pro- Lake Claiborne. LICENSE. Creates a $50 lifetime hunting gram for the take of deer and turkey; condi- HB 1192 by Townsend. AQUACUL- and fishing license for persons 60 years of age tions the implementation of such a program TURE DEVELOPMENT. Establishes the or older and makes housekeeping changes to for deer upon the adoption by the LWFC of Aquaculture Coordinating Council within the provisions concerning the Saltwater a season bag limit for buck deer that is less the Dept. of Agriculture and Forestry to pro- Fishery Enforcement Fund. than the aggregate season bag limit for deer. mote the development of aquaculture in the HB 608 by Jack Smith. WILDLIFE HB 695 (ACT 164) by Jack Smith. state, in cooperation with the Department of AND FISHERIES ETHICS. Authorizes BEAR FEEDING. Prohibits the feeding of Wildlife and Fisheries. Defines aquaculture the exploitation of the natural resources of wild bears. species as aquatic livestock and makes the the state for personal gain, including being HB 736 (ACT 253) by LaFleur. distinction that species under an aquaculture employed by a person or serving as a board CLASS I WILDLIFE VIOLATIONS. system are not wildlife; excludes black bass member or officer of any corporation exploit- Changes Class I penalties for violations of and crappie from the definition of aquatic ing the state’s natural resources, by classified wildlife and fisheries laws from civil penalties livestock; authorizes and provides guidelines employees of the Department of Wildlife and assessed by the LDWF to criminal penalties for the regulation of aquaculture by the Fisheries provided that it is not prohibited by assessed by the courts. Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry; law and is approved by the LWFC director HB 788 (ACT 386) by Pierre. provides for a joint decision-making process (secretary?). COASTAL USE PERMITS. Requires the among the LDWF, LDAF and LWFC for HB 609 (ACT 100) by Jack Smith. secretary of the Department of Natural designating which species are designated for YOUTH HUNTING. Clarifies that Resources to take into consideration an aquaculture; provides criteria for assessing youths under 16 years of age are eligible to applicant’s compliance history with the risk of a potential aquaculture species to nat- participate in a youth deer hunt if under coastal resources program prior to taking ural resources. direct supervision of an adult of 18 years of action on a coastal use permit application. HB 1266 (ACT 277) by Damico. age or older, that the youth must have proof HB 838 (ACT 52) by Damico. DEQ COASTAL USE PERMITTING / MITI- of successful completion of a hunter safety PENALTIES. Increases the limit of penalty GATION. Makes changes to the notifica- course or the supervising adult must have a that can be assessed for a violation of the tion requirements for coastal use permits and hunting license or proof of successfully com- Environmental Quality Act from $27,500 to modifies the guidelines for mitigation pay- pleting a hunter safety course; further pro- $32,500 per day. ments and use of such funds. Page 14 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 HB 1317 (ACT 138) by Daniel. curtailed if continued operation is not in the environmental impacts. WILDLIFE & FISHERIES PRINTING. national interest; further urges mitigation of HCR 180 by Dove. DRILLING Authorizes LDWF to print various material the MRGO’s adverse impacts if it is deter- PERMITS. Urges the Departments of that assists in the promotion of the natural mined that it is in the national interest to Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, resources and recreational opportunities per- continue maintaining the channel. and Wildlife and Fisheries to cooperate to tinent to the mission of the department, HCR 65 by Odinet. OYSTERS / expedite decisions on issuing drilling permits including inter and intra departmental com- FISH PREDATION. Urges the LDWF to so that such permits can be issued within 45 munications. study the problem of nuisance fish around days of application. HB 1338 (ACT 282) by Damico. oyster beds, particularly black drum, and HCR 188 by Baudoin. RECYLING OYSTER LEASE DAMAGE SURVEYS. study the development and implementation AT THE LEGISLATURE. Urges the Modifies the procedure governing biological of a plan to manage such fish and report its members of the Legislature to set an example surveys by the Oyster Lease Damage findings to the Legislature prior to the 2006 by recycling the enormous amount of paper Evaluation Board. Regular Session. received by the members each day. HB 1374 (ACT 556) by Jack Smith. HCR 68 by Odinet. MRGO / IHNC. HCR 226 by Frith. MUZZLE- SENIOR COMMERCIAL FISHING Memorializes Congress, the Corps of LOADER SEASON. Urges the LDWF to LICENSE. Provides for an annual senior Engineers, and the Louisiana Congressional study the scheduling of the season for hunt- commercial fishing license for persons 70 Delegation to promptly close the Mississippi ing deer with muzzleloading rifles and report years of age and older, to include any com- River Gulf Outlet in the manner contem- its findings and recommendations to the mercial gear fees, for $20. plated by the Coast 2050 Plan and to autho- Legislature. HB 1456 (ACT 438) by Pierre. rize full funding for the Inner Harbor HCR 257 by Frith. CHARTER HUNTING/FISHING/WMA FEE Navigation Canal lock project in New BOAT SURVEYS. Requests charter boat EXEMPTIONS. Authorizes the LDWF Orleans that would provide alternative access captains to respond to Department of secretary to exempt certain groups/individu- for vessels now using the MRGO. Wildlife and Fisheries surveys pertaining to als from various recreational licenses. HCR 89 by Townsend. GRITS GRE- catch, effort and other data about the charter HB 1467 (ACT 1467) by Pierre. SHAM. Commends Grits Gresham for his boat industry. FEDERAL WILDLIFE/FISHERIES accomplishments as a writer and media per- HCR 265 by Pitre. COASTAL FUNDING. Makes technical changes to sonality and acknowledges him as a living PARISHES / SLO SURVEY. Urges the state law to conform with the federal eligibil- Louisiana Outdoor Legend. State Land Office to give priority to the ity requirements to accept and expend feder- HCR 115 by Odinet. OYSTERS / coastal parishes in surveying and inventory- al aid funds for wildlife and fisheries man- COASTAL RESTORATION. Urges the ing state lands and waterbottoms. agement. Department of Natural Resources to provide HCR 297 by Baldone. DUCK SEA- HB 1516 by Baldone. SHRIMP information to the Oyster Task Force pre- SON. Memorializes the Department of NETS. Requires a distance of 1,000 feet dicting the salinity regime for coastal waters Interior to reevaluate the duck hunting sea- between the location of stationary shrimp net over a 5-year period and projections for son framework, taking into account climate upstream of a permitted stationary shrimp restrictions on oyster ground leasing on a 3- change and migration patterns, with the net and provides for exceptions. year basis. intent to both enhance waterfowl conserva- HB 1621 by Odinet. ZOO ANI- HCR 121 by Quezaire. PELICAN tion and the economic impact of duck hunt- MALS. Prohibits the killing for sport any PLATE. Directs the Dept. of Public Safety ing. zoo or circus animal or retired zoo or circus and Corrections to include an image of a pel- HCR 299 by Baldone. MALLARD animal. ican (brown, we hope) on the standard pri- SHOOTING. Requests the Louisiana HB 1623 by Hopkins. COAL BED vate passenger motor vehicle license plate. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to METHANE DEVELOPMENT. HCR 146 by Townsend. SALINE study the feasibility of permitting the taking Authorizes the Commissioner of LAKE WEED CONTROL. Urges the of pen-raised mallards in the area south of Conservation to unitize coal seam natural gas LDWF to draw down Saline Lake, apply Interstate 10 and north of Hwy. 14. deposits to promote and regulate their devel- appropriate chemicals and utilize triploid HCR 305 by Farrar. LDWF opment. grass carp to control aquatic vegetation in the ENFORCEMENT. Requests the secretary HB 1627 by Marchand. LEAD POI- Lake; further requests that fishing be prohib- of the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries to SONING. Requires DHH to identify and ited during the drawdown of the lake. review the agency's enforcement needs on designate geographic areas as high risk for HCR 151 by Faucheux. MAUREPAS state refuges and wildlife management areas lead poisoning and mandate blood screening SWAMP WMA DEER SEASON. Urges and to evaluate the feasibility of assigning law for children in those high risk areas. the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement powers to properly qualified Commission to study the deer seasons in the employees in the wildlife and fur and refuge HCR 35 by Hutter. MRGO. Maurepas Swamp WMA. divisions, and to report findings to the House Memorializes Congress to authorize and HCR 176 by Frith. RIGS TO MARI- and Senate Natural Resources Committees direct the Corps of Engineers to evaluate the CULTURE. Creates a Platforms for prior to the 2005 Regular Session. operation and maintenance of the Mariculture Task Force to explore the feasi- Mississippi River Gulf Outlet with respect to bility of developing a marine aquaculture HR 108 by Faucheux. MAUREPAS the benefits and costs, including social, eco- (mariculture) industry in the Gulf of Mexico SWAMP WMA DEER SEASON. Urges nomic and environmental costs and benefits; using offshore energy production platforms, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries further urges that O & M of the MRGO be including consideration of the economic and Commission to prohibit the taking of does Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 15 on the Maurepas Swamp WMA during the SB 118 (act 613) by McPherson. coastal use permitting program. muzzleloader and archery seasons and to pro- WHITE LAKE. Establishes the White SB 310 (Act 633) by Dupre. vide more days of buck-only hunting during Lake Property Fund in the Conservation COASTAL RESTORATION / EXPRO- the regular gun season. Fund; directs that all revenue received by the PRIATION. Authorizes the use of expro- Senate Bills and Resolutions state that is derived from the White Lake priation in certain cases to obtain the land SB 2 by McPherson. FREEDOM TO property be deposited to the Fund along with rights necessary to implement coastal restora- HUNT/FISH/TRAP. Proposes a constitu- any private donations and public contribu- tion projects and establishes procedures for tional amendment guaranteeing every citizen tions made to the property; provides that such expropriation. the right to hunt, fish and trap subject to reg- such funds will be available solely for the SB 338 (Act 636) by Adley. DEQ ulation, restriction or prohibition as provided administration, operation, maintenance, SECURITY. Authorizes the DEQ secretary by law. management and enhancement of the White to limit access via the Internet of certain SB 8 (Act 594) by B. Gautreaux. Lake property and to promote its wildlife and information that is defined by rule as securi- ATCHAFALAYA GATEWAY. Designates ecosystem conservation, education and ty sensitive and provides for penalties for dis- St. Mary Parish as the Gateway to the research purposes, consistent with the recom- semination of such security sensitive infor- Atchafalaya Basin, home of some of the best mendations of the White Lake Property mation. bass fishing tournaments in the World. Advisory Board which is established within SB 375 (VETOED) by Marionneaux. SB 15 (Act 598) by Dupre. UNDER- the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and DEER HUNTING. Requires that any reg- SIZED CRAB DEFENSE. Creates an affir- Fisheries consisting of up to 13 voting mem- ulations that limit buck deer harvest based on mative defense by wholesale or retail dealers bers, a minimum of 7 having expertise in sci- antler development be applied uniformly against prosecution for possession of under- entific disciplines pertinent to the manage- statewide and further requires any LWFC sized crabs if, after the crabs leave the dock, ment and conservation of the natural rule that proposes to implement such limita- such dealer has an invoice or other written resources found on the White Lake property; tions be first approved by the House and documentation that indicates that the total # transfers management of the White Lake Senate Natural Resources Committees. of undersized crabs possessed does not exceed Property to the Louisiana Department of SB 433 (ACT 185) by Theunissen. 10% of the crabs bought for processing and Wildlife and Fisheries pending conformity of AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES. shipping. the existing management agreements. The Establishes the Louisiana Aquatic Invasive SB 35 (ACT 172) by N. Gautreaux. establishment of the advisory board may pro- Species Council and Task force in the LDWF ATV TRAINING. Authorizes the ceed upon enactment while the provisions to coordinate the implementation of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and creating a trust fund and authorizing LDWF Louisiana Invasive Aquatic Species Fisheries to include training for the safe oper- to manage the property will go into effect Management Plan and to address aquatic ation and proper handling of all terrain vehi- January 1, 2005. invasive species issues in the state. cles as part of the agency’s hunter education SB 120 (ACT 175) by McPherson. SB 464 (ACT 72) by Fontenot. DEQ and training course. SCENIC RIVERS. Adds Ouiska Chitto HEARINGS. Relative to the holding and SB 45 (ACT 173) by Smith. SALINE Creek in Beauregard Parish, Barnes Creek conduct of public hearings by DEQ regard- LAKE / GRASS CARP. Authorizes the from LA Hwy. 27 to the Calcasieu River in ing permits and environmental assessments. Saline Lake Game and Fish Preserve Allen and Beauregard Parishes, Beckwith SB 467 (ACT 17) by Fontenot. DEQ Commission to place triploid grass carp in Creek from its headwaters to the west fork of ENFORCEMENT. Limits institution of Saline Lake under the direction and supervi- the Calcasieu River in Beauregard and an action for assessment of a civil penalty to sion of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife Calcasieu Parishes, Bundick Creek from its within 5 years of the time the penalty accrues and Fisheries. headwaters to Bundick Lake and from the if the violator could have been served with SB 105 (ACT 297) by Dupre. LWFC lake to Ouiska Chitto Creek in Vernon, the penalty during that time. CHAIR/VICE CHAIR ELECTIONS. Beauregard and Allen Parishes, and Hickory SB 468 (Act 655) by Fontenot. Requires the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Creek from its headwaters to the west fork of BROWNFIELD CLEANUP. Establishes a Commission to elect its chairman and vice the Calcasieu River to the Louisiana Natural Brownfields Cleanup Revolving Loan Fund chairman at its first meeting in January each and Scenic Rivers System. to provide assistance to local governments year. SB 160 (ACT 453) by Hainkel. and other qualified organizations to remedi- SB 117 (ACT 174) by McPherson. TCHEFUNTE RIVER. Repeals the excep- ate eligible brownfields. REWARD PROGRAM FUNDING. tion to the Natural and Scenic Rivers Act for SB 494 (ACT 460) by Schedler. Directs the deposit of a $2 penalty from each certain tracts of land from Hwy. 22 to Lake FLOUNDER GIG. Allows the use of a person convicted of a violation of a Pontchartrain that are zoned for suburban multi-pronged, barbed spear for harvesting wildlife/fisheries law to the Fish and Wildlife agriculture. flounder. Violations Reward Fund from which the SB 161 by Butch Gautreaux. TUR- SB 636 (ACT 696) by McPherson. Legislature will appropriate funds to pay TLES. Establishes the Louisiana Aquatic LWFC / OYSTER LEASES. Requires that rewards to persons reporting violations of Chelonian Research and Promotion Board any member of the Louisiana Wildlife and wildlife/fisheries laws, and to administer the within LDAF to develop and promote the Fisheries Commission who has an interest in reward program within the LDWF and in turtle culture industry. oyster leases recuse himself or be disqualified cooperation with a nonprofit organization SB 308 (Act 459) by Dupre. by the LWFC from making decisions that that enters into a cooperative endeavor agree- COASTAL USE PERMITTING. Makes affect such lease(s). ment with the LDWF to administer such a adjustments to the notification requirements SB 710 (ACT 709) by Ellington. JET reward program. and other procedures and policies of the SKIS. Allows persons between 13 and 16 Page 16 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 years of age to operate a personal watercraft if control aquatic vegetation in the Lake; fur- they have successfully completed a boating ther requests that fishing be prohibited dur- Sponsor Members safety education course. ing the drawdown of the lake. SB 767 (ACT 716) by Hainkel. SCR 92 by Smith. IATT LAKE First-time $100 or greater LWF PONTCHARTRAIN BOTTOMS. WEED CONTROL. Urges the LDWF to Contributing members are entitled to Prohibits the dredging of the bottom of Lake draw down Iatt Lake, treat with appropriate receive a sponsor plaque for their Pontchartrain for private commercial pur- herbicides, and authorize the use of triploid home or office. We extend our grateful poses (Jefferson Parish excepted) except to grass carp to control aquatic weeds in the exercise the right to reclaim land lost to sub- lake. appreciation to the following Sponsor sidence or erosion, per Article IX, Section 3 SCR 107 by Boasso. SALTWATER Members of the Louisiana Wildlife of the state constitution, and then only to the FISHERIES. Requests the House and Federation. Their support and that of extent that such dredging does not unduly Senate Natural Resources Committees to all our loyal members is directly restrain the navigability or public use. meet and function as a joint committee to responsible for the Federation’s growth study and make recommendations on the and success. SCR 24 by McPherson. FISHING feasibility of revising the laws and regulations ACCESS / COASTAL WATERS. Urges as they pertain to saltwater commercial and and requests the governor to support policies recreational fishing, specifically with respect that insure the public’s right to access and to conservation standards, user conflicts and use, for navigation and fishing, naturally nav- the development of a long range plan to igable coastal waters that are owned by the manage saltwater fisheries for the benefit of state. the state and all users; requires the joint com- SCR 25 by McPherson. STATE mittee to solicit input from various commer- LAND I.D. Urges and requests the gover- cial and recreational fishing interests as well nor to direct the State Land Office to com- as pertinent government agencies and acade- plete an inventory of the waterbottoms in the mic institutions and hold public hearings to state within the next four years, and to pro- accept input and to report its findings to the vide sufficient funding through appropria- Legislature prior to the 2006 Regular tions or other means to accomplish this task. Session. SCR 30 by Smith. SALINE LAKE / SCR 113 by Ullo. ENERGY POLI- GRASS CARP. Urges and requests the CY. Memorializes congress to develop Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to sound energy policies that promote domestic study the possible migration of triploid grass production and the development of petrole- carp out of Saline Lake. um refining facilities in the U.S. SCR 62 by Holden. MERCURY SCR 159 by Dupre. COASTAL EMISSIONS. Urges the Louisiana RESTORATION / PERMITTING. Congressional Delegation and DEQ to sup- Memorializes Congress to review federal laws port federal regulations mandating restric- and procedures affecting coastal wetlands Sen. Robert J. Barham, Oak Ridge tions on mercury emissions and discharges to activities and permitting in Louisiana to pro- Frank Chandler, Alexandria reduce mercury contamination in the envi- mote stewardship by enhancing cooperation - Chandler Corporation ronment. and effective communication between feder- SCR 75 by Nick Gautreaux. al, state and local agencies. Edward Duhe, Jr., Gonzales COASTAL FOREST CONSERVATION. Juanita B. Kelley, Pineville Urges the inventory and assessment of the SR 49 by Barham. ALLIGATOR - Hilltop Nursing Center functional values of coastal forests and SNAPPING TURTLE. Urges the LDWF to memorializes the U. S. Congress to establish promulgate rules to place a moratorium on Jimmie Marsh, Tallulah a “Coastal Forest Reserve Program” patterned the harvest of alligator snapping turtles. Paul Picard, Liberty, MS after the Wetlands Reserve Program to pro- SR 116 by McPherson. LDWF - Dixie Fish Farms vide incentives to coastal forest owners to ENFORCEMENT. Requests the LDWF preserve and sustainably manage their forest- secretary to review the needs of the depart- Sheriff Paul R. Smith, New Roads lands as part of the initiative to restore the ment with respect to law enforcement on Wendy T. Smith, New Roads Mississippi River Coastal Delta and chenier state refuges and management areas, and the Steve Templin, Boyce plain of Southwest Louisiana. assignment of law enforcement powers to SCR 90 by Smith. IATT LAKE / department employees, and report his find- - Templin Forestry, Inc. GRASS CARP. Urges the LDWF to study ings to the Senate Natural Resources Betty Wisdom, New Orleans the possible migration of triploid grass carp Committee prior to the 2005 Regular out of Iatt Lake. Session. SCR 91 by Smith. SALINE LAKE WEED CONTROL. Urges the LDWF to draw down Saline Lake, apply appropriate chemicals and utilize triploid grass carp to Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 17 Freedom to: Continued from page 6 Parks Executive Director: Continued from page 10 - PETA has threatened to disrupt fishing tournaments like the Tarpon Rodeo and that the authority to regulate, restrict and charged into the environment, now. - Anti fishing billboards with a picture of prohibit these activities is given by the citizens Although not as prominent as fishing, a dog with a hook in its mouth were erected to the Legislature and the Louisiana Wildlife hunting, trapping, birding, paddling and here in Louisiana. and Fisheries Commission via statute and con- other outdoor recreational activities in - PETA protested fishing seminars for stitutional provision,” said Rep. Jack Smith Louisiana that depend on a healthy envi- children. (New Iberia) (Franklin) who handled the bill on the House ronment ring the bell, too in their contri- - Billboards have been posted discourag- floor. “Adding the proposed statement to the bution to the state’s economy. What about ing the consumption of meat. Louisiana Constitution will serve to preempt ducks? Where were the ducks? We need special interests from attempting to take away some help from our leaders on that score. FREEDOM TO HUNT, FISH, these freedoms as they have in so many other Never has the community of Louisiana AND TRAP FAQs states where resource utilization has been chal- waterfowlers ever been so disheartened by Will adding the proposed language to the lenged, and in some cases curtailed, contrary the scarcity of a resource we have for so Louisiana Constitution: to sound, science-based fish and wildlife man- long taken for granted. Healthy wetlands - permit hunting/fishing/trapping activi- agement principles.” make ducks. Both here and on the north- ties on private property without permission? Smith reiterated that the proposed con- ern breeding grounds. They need to be No. The language of the proposed stitutional amendment does not in any way protected and managed not only for the amendment reaffirms the right of property authorize entry upon private property to hunt, wildlife that depends on them, but for the owners to restrict and control access to their fish or trap. “However,” he said, “it will pro- water quality they sustain, and the water property for hunting, fishing or trapping pur- tect the right of landowners to authorize and that sustains us. And we need some help poses. engage in these activities on their own proper- from our leaders in adopting policy that - give a person the right to break wildlife ty. The anti-hunting/fishing/trapping move- will halt practices that interrupt traditional and fisheries laws and regulations without ment that this proposal defends against has migration patterns that keep the ducks consequences? the potential to hurt private landowners the from visiting our marshes, ricefields and No. The language of the proposed most because they (owners) have an econom- flooded timber in the winter. amendment provides that the right to ic stake in these activities which generate rev- We have left too much conservation- hunt/fish/trap be managed by law and regula- enue, enhance property value and control the related economic development on the table tion consistent with the State’s obligation to depredation of habitat on their land,” Smith in our state. The reopening, or lack of exe- protect, conserve, and replenish the State’s said. cuting the acquisition and reopening of natural resources. Elmer’s Island on the Louisiana coast, is one - provide cause for filing lawsuits against Anti-hunting/fishing/trapping example. Another is the convoluted man- the state for infringement of the freedom to activity around the country agement scheme for the White Lake hunt/fish/trap? Property, in Vermilion Parish. The eco- Not any more than exists under current OTHER STATES tourism and outdoor recreation-related eco- constitutional provisions; see previous answer. - 11 States have banned hunting on nomic potential of this 71,000 acres of - impair the enactment or effect of legis- Sundays: AL, CT, DE, GA, ME, MD, NJ, unique freshwater wetland has languished lation or regulation that restricts or manages PA, SC, VA, and WV. since BP donated it to the state 2 years ago. hunting/fishing/trapping? - In Rhode Island, California, and We need our leaders to address the policy of Not if such legislation/regulation is con- Wisconsin anti groups are attempting to ban proper management of state wildlife lands, sistent with the State’s obligation to protect, dove hunting. to reject the White Lake paradigm for pub- conserve and replenish the State’s natural - Oregon has outlawed bear and cougar lic land management and engage the part- resources. hunting. nerships necessary to make White Lake the - prevent the State from taking away the - Leghold traps were banned in premier conservation, education, research right to hunt/fish/trap for cause or as a penal- California and ecotourism attraction it deserves to be. ty for violation of the law? - Trapping is banned in Washington, Louisiana does not have a lot of coastal No. Similar to he freedom of speech, the Oregon, California, and on public land in forest left. Much of it has been destroyed right to vote and the right to own firearms, the Arizona. by saltwater intrusion, leaving once vast freedom to hunt/fish/trap cannot be exercised - Several states are attempting to ban the baldcypress forests standing like burnt in such a way as to infringe the basic rights of use of dogs for hunting with some already toothpicks against the tide. What’s left others. banning the use of dogs to hunt bear, cougar, needs to be conserved, not only for the Freedom of speech does not permit the and fox. esthetic and wildlife values, but to hold the inciting of a riot or a life threatening situation - NMFS is prepared to close 20% of line on coastal erosion. But these forests are by the use of frightening or abusive language; Federal Waters to recreational anglers (MPA’s) the property of the owner, and rather than firearms cannot be carried into certain estab- and California has banned recreational fishing pursue conservation by regulation, we need lishments or concealed without a permit, and in some waters already. (Channel Islands) the help of our leaders to make the owners convicted felons cannot vote or possess a better offer, so the private owners can get firearms, even though both the US and HERE IN LOUISIANA - PETA attempted to ban fishing in State Continued on page 19 Continued on page 24

Page 18 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Lagnaippe: Continued from page 7 Milton C. Chapman, MD, Shreveport Anna Jane Gaiennie Miller, Opelousas John H. Chidlow, MD, Shreveport Suzanne M. Montgomery, Mandeville Walter W. Christy, New Orleans David S. Morton, Lake Charles New Members (to $49) City Bank & Trust Co., Natchitoches Marian P. Petry, Harahan Tony W. Clemons, Minden Noel F. Pilie, DDS, New Orleans Jim Angers, Jr., Lafayette Roberta A. Conrad, Mandeville Charlie Prejean, Lafayette Jim Becquet, Lafayette Margaret S. Credo, Harahan Mary L. Regus, New Orleans Kenny Bowen, Choudrant Danny Crosby, Baton Rouge Paul J. Rhodes, Harvey Carl J. Breaux, DDS, Lafayette - Diamond Distributors, Inc. Samuel Riggs, Orange, TX Todd J. Broussard, Ferriday Edward O. Daigle, Covington Harry Robert, Gonzales Barney Callahan, Gonzales Dan Daniel, Baton Rouge - Holiday Inn - Gonzales Michael Crago, Metairie - Moody Price, Inc. Michael R. Robichaux, MD, Mathews Henry J. Dauterive, Jr., New Iberia Aubry Dauterive, New Iberia Wilbur G. Robinson, Baton Rouge Sarah Dawes, Baton Rouge Chief R. Davis, Robeline Warren Roussel, Lafayette Aimee Domingue, Atlanta, GA - Chief Environmental Surveys, Inc. Frank Sadler, Baton Rouge James Domingue, Franklin Alberto J. de Jongh, Baton Rouge Morris E. Schneider, Metairie Julie Eshelman-Lee, Fort Collins, CO Stephen Dinino, Jr., Donaldsonville Michael R. Sharp, Hammond - Creole West Productions H. L. Donald, DDS, West Monroe - Lakestar Land Company Jonny Fryar, Tullos Ted and Carolyn Dove, Many Jodie Singer, Prairieville Larry W. Harding, Sr., Berwick Wayne F. Dugas, Santa Rosa Beach, FL John W. Smietana, New Iberia -Harding’s Canoe & Kayak Rentals J. Preston Duhe, New Iberia Leonard E. Stafford, New Orleans Jerri Jacob, Livingston J. Nat Edmonson, Oak Grove S. Ted Sternberg, New Orleans B. J. McRae, Baton Rouge Mrs. Gaston M. England, Baton Rouge Robert Taylor, Jr., Prairieville Janssen Pinckley, Colfax H. M. Favrot, Jr., Metairie James P. Thibodaux, Houma Chris Sebastien, Opelousas Charles W. Frank, New Orleans Paul C. Thionville, New Orleans Curtis A. Snyder, Natchitoches - Louisiana Duck Decoys - Thionville Laboratories, Inc. Gina L. Stanton, Lafayette Myles K. Gaupp, Jr., MD, Baton Rouge Ivor L. Van Heerden, PhD, Livingston Paul Yakupzack, Houma Pat Giblin, Baton Rouge Harley J. Walker, Baton Rouge Tom Gilmore, Jr., Baton Rouge Harry A. Warner, Mandeville New Members ($50 to $99) - Gulf States Electrical Sales, Inc. Waterborne, Inc., New Orleans John E. Gonce, Baton Rouge Janelle M. Werner, Mandeville Phil Boydston, Baton Rouge Richard W. Goudeau, Baton Rouge Eddie C. Whetstone, Collinston Peter L. Hilbert, New Orleans Douglas W. Greve, MD, New Orleans Mark Wilson, Shreveport Charlene T. Gueho, New Orleans Robert Wolf, Alexandria New Members ($100 and up) Mary Lockett Nelson Guthrie, New Orleans - Robert Wolf Realtor Al S. Haase, Jr., DVM, Baton Rouge Lawrence J. Yoakum, Baton Rouge Bob DeFelice, New Orleans Simonet Hebert, Jr., Kaplan Robert A. Young, Metairie -Pascal’s Manale Restaurant, Inc. Robert N. Helm, MD, New Roads Paul L. Miller, Lafayette David Farrell Herke, Baton Rouge Paul Picard, Liberty, MS William H. Herke, PhD, Baton Rouge Freedom to: Continued from page 18 - Dixie Fish Farms Frank B. Hughes, MD, Shreveport Jodie M. Singer, Prairieville Clarence H. Jordan, Natchitoches Louisiana constitutions give citizens the right Sheriff Paul R. Smith, New Roads Adrian E. Kaiser, Jr., Greenwell Springs to bear arms. Thankfully, the constitution Wendy T. Smith, New Roads Richard Kater, Baton Rouge does prevent government from taking away Bob Thompson, West Monroe - Richard’s Printing the right of law-abiding citizens to express an -Thompson Farms Properties, Inc. Donald E. Kelly, Greensburg opinion, own and lawfully use a firearm, or Helen Wilson Kingsley, Alexandria Mid-Year Appeal Donors vote. Charles J. Koehl, Sr., River Ridge What will adding the Freedom to Don L. Landry, II, Lafayette E. H. Allen, Oak Ridge Hunt/Fish/Trap to the Louisiana Constitution - Don’s Seafood Hut do? - Bank Of Oak Ridge Barbara Larriviere, Opelousas It will serve to fend off attempts through Bobby R. Beavers, Monroe Honorable Harry Lee, Harvey Steven E. Bech, Marrero - Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office emotional and zealous appeals, aimed at influ- Roy M. Bentley, Monroe Jim Lee, Baton Rouge encing a populace that is becoming ever more Dorothy Bernard, Breaux Bridge - Legiscon, Inc. isolated from the production of the food it eats Hon. Denald A. Beslin, Rayne Zachary K. Lemann, New Orleans and the skills and traditions that built our soci- J. S. Blanchard, III, Baton Rouge M. W. Manny, Baton Rouge ety, to curtail the many traditional Ronnie Bourgeois, Saint Francisville C. Ray Marchand, Port Allen hunting/fishing/trapping activities enjoyed by Scott Brame, Alexandria Ken Matthews, New Orleans Louisiana citizens and which were understood Greg A. Brian, MD, Alexandria Jesse McClendon, Jr., OD, Amite as a fundamental right by the immigrants who Joseph Tom Butler, Jr., Thibodaux - Amite Clinic first settled our Nation, fleeing from tyranni- Capt. Victor G. Calvaruso, New Orleans James W. McNeil, Baton Rouge cal governments to find freedom in America. David W. Carnal, Ruston Garrett Melliff, Destrehan - Educational Solutions Corp.

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 19 President: Continued from page 3 commercial fishermen to join it’s ranks. Jimmy Johnston, Co-chairs. However, the perspicacious young know-it- The function/purpose of each of these director Randy Lanctot. all soon came to understand. I’m not the committees is as follows. My wife is starting to complain, howev- only one who utilizes a resource, and neither Statewide Membership: Recruitment er. Not about my travels, but about the is my viewpoint the only “right” one. While and maintenance of LWF affiliate organiza- stockpile of “things” I am accumulating. So not a bad thing, most clubs seek out only tions with a goal of at least one active, vigor- far, after attending all of these meetings/auc- members that are like themselves (e.g., fish- ous affiliate in each LWF district. By virtue tions, I am the owner of a gun, a set of ing clubs, gun clubs, gardening clubs, bird- of their office, all LWF District Vice decoys, duck calls, a BBQ pit, and a toy trac- watchers, etc.). The Federation, on the Presidents serve on this committee. tor (for Emma not me!!). I will also soon be other hand embraces all of these different State Legislation: Monitor state legisla- a member of almost every conservation orga- paradigms and people who have a common tion and rulemaking that pertains to natural nization in the State of Louisiana. Not real- interest in sustainable use and wise resource resource conservation and environmental ly, but my travels have been a great way to stewardship. In doing so, we are able to look quality and advise LWF leaders and mem- get out and meet all of the wonderful people at a conservation issue, not through the nar- bership on such. who dedicate their time, talent, energy and row blinders of one part of the equation, but National Affairs: National Wildlife money to conserve Louisiana’s natural from many sides. Therein lies the rub for Federation liaison; monitor national legisla- resources. It is inspiring, to say the least, to those who eschew diversity of opinion. tion, policy and rulemaking that pertains to meet and spend time with these outstanding Our diversity, I believe, is why the natural resource conservation and environ- people. Federation has been such a successful orga- mental quality; advise LWF leadership on A final note regarding meetings, my nization for so many years, and why I am appropriate action to take. wife Shawn and I were privileged to be invit- proud to be affiliated with those who are Finance: Oversee and advise on LWF ed to Avery Island to meet with the National members of LWF. When we come together financial record keeping, report on status of Wildlife Federation’s new President Larry to formulate options and actions regarding LWF finances, audit. Schweiger and the NWF’s Presidents’ our state’s natural resources we do so with as Fundraising and Development: “Think Council. We enjoyed a beautiful sunset on many different conservation perspectives at Tank” for growing the LWF’s membership the “island” and were treated to a fabulous the table as possible. You don’t go building and financial resources including assistance dinner in the company of some unique con- rocket ships with just propulsion engineers, with concept implementation. servationists from across the United States. you need a team of experts all with their own Conservation Education: National We discussed the future involvement of piece of the puzzle. At the end of the day, we Wildlife Week promotion, LWF representa- NWF regarding coastal restoration here in at the Federation may not always resolve the tion (via exhibit) at events, fairs and festivals Louisiana. The meeting brought some good issue, but I will promise you that we have the such as Earth Day celebrations, outdoor news, as it seems the National Wildlife best interests of this state and it’s natural shows, etc., select recipients of LWF scholar- Federation is exploring the idea of making resources in mind when we move forward. ships awarded to educators to attend the the restoration of the Mississippi River As promised in my last column, I am NWF Conservation Summit, development Coastal Delta one of its top conservation providing a list of LWF standing and ad hoc of educational outreach programs such as issues. NWF’s help will be much appreciat- committees and their chairs. They include: Schoolyard and Backyard Wildlife habitat, ed and could be an important catalyst to Statewide Membership Committee - Kathy liaison with the professional education com- help make things happen at the Federal level. Wascom, Chair; State Legislation munity. Before I move on to presenting LWF’s Committee - Jay Huner & Randy Lanctot, Environmental Quality: Monitor state committees for the year, I want to address Co-chairs; National Affairs Committee - and federal legislation and agency action some recent “flak” that the Federation has Ken Dancak, Chair; Finance affecting the quality of the environment, taken in the press. In championing efforts Committee/Fundraising and Development particularly air, water, wetlands and soil, like the Freedom to Hunt, Fish, and Trap Committee - Jay Huner & Edgar Veillon, investigate and publicize sources of pollution and taking a stance to correct the White Co-chairs of both committees; Conservation and recommend measures for abatement of Lake fiasco, we have raised the ire of a few Education Committee - Kathy Wascom & pollution problems. and have been maligned recently in a few Dr. Bill Herke, Co-chairs; Environmental Charter and By-laws: Investigate pro- publications. I guess it comes with the terri- Quality Committee - Kathy Wascom, Chair; posed changes in the Charter and By-laws to tory — it isn’t very often that people lash out Charter and By-laws Committee - Keith insure that they do not conflict with and/or at the losers. You have to be on the lead for Saucier, Chair; Convention Program and duplicate existing articles, determine people to take shots at you. Planning Committee - Joe Herring, Chair; whether LWF officers and directors are per- I feel strongly about LWF and its mem- Conservation Awards Committee - Joe forming duties prescribed by and are acting bership. I am asked constantly by people, Herring, Chair; Convention Hospitality in compliance with the Charter and By-laws, “Why should I join LWF? What makes you Committee - Gene Dauzat, Chair; Deer endeavor to familiarize each state director so different from any other organization?” Management Committee - Barney Callahan, with the Charter and By-laws. In the question, lies the answer. We are very Chair; Atchafalaya Basin Committee - Convention Program and Planning: different. Charles Fryling & Ben Skerrett, III, Co- Work with the convention host affiliate to When I first joined the Federation some chairs; Water Resources Committee - Rick develop convention program and events, years ago, I was taken aback by the fact that Bryan, Chair; Waterfowl Committee - Dave agenda and schedule. a conservation organization would allow Boudreaux, Chair; Louisiana Coastal Area Convention Hospitality: Insure that all Study Committee - Virginia Burkett & convention attendees feel welcome and Page 20 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 award honorees are met and seated at the awards banquet. New Law Proposes Change in Conservation Awards: Oversee the operation of LWF’s Conservation Achievement Recognition Program includ- White Lake Management ing its effective, efficient administration; encouragement of nominations for each of On a 103 -1 vote, the Louisiana House Board within the Louisiana Department of the award categories and coordination of the of Representatives concurred with the Senate Wildlife and Fisheries. The board will con- judging of the nominees; recommend other (which voted 34-0 earlier in the session) that sist of up to 13 voting members, a minimum awards and forms of recognition for LWF to the management of the White Lake Preserve of 7 having expertise in scientific disciplines acknowledge good conservation work and should be the responsibility of a state agency pertinent to the management and conserva- service to the organization. rather than a private corporation. SB 118, tion of the natural resources found on the Deer Management: Monitor deer man- authored by Senators Joe McPherson and White Lake property. The board will guide agement issues including chronic wasting Nick Gautreaux, establishes a dedicated trust the operation and management of the prop- disease and proposed harvest regulations fund to finance the administration of the erty, and money appropriated from the Fund and management strategies and make rec- property using self-generated revenues, must be consistent with the recommenda- ommendations to the LWF Board. grants and donations, creates an advisory tions of the board. Atchafalaya Basin: LWF liaison with board to guide White Lake management, Act 613 addresses the issues pertinent to the Atchafalaya Basin Program and monitor and transfers management of the property to the White Lake controversy. It: Program activities concerning conservation the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and - provides for the security of private of the Atchafalaya Basin. Fisheries. The bill was signed by the funds donated for the operation of White Water Resources: Work within the Governor on July 5, 2004 and designated Act Lake; Federation to advocate for a wise statewide 613. - resolves the legal question of a private water conservation and management plan to The 71,000-acre complex of fresh water entity receiving and expending revenues address the state’s present and future water marsh, open water and agricultural fields was derived from a state asset without legislative needs, helping to protect, conserve and donated to the state in July of 2002 by BP oversight or appropriation by giving that replenish Louisiana’s water resources. America Production Company, but the gift responsibility to an agency of state govern- Waterfowl: Monitor waterfowl issues in garnered only tepid acclaim from the media ment that is subject to legislative oversight Louisiana and nationally, helping to formu- and a public skeptical with the idea of private and the appropriations process; late and implement LWF action to conserve management, without accountability, of - provides for public participation in the the waterfowl resource and preserve public wildlife conservation land. The management and operation of this 71,000 Louisiana’s rich waterfowling heritage. unprecedented deal raised legal and policy acre, state-owned wildlife conservation area Louisiana Coastal Area Study: Monitor questions that provoked enactment of law and reestablishes the Legislature’s rightful the LCA study, keeping LWF’s leaders and last year requiring legislative approval before oversight role; membership informed of its status and the state can accept similar donations in the - establishes an advisory board with sci- advise LWF input to the study. future. But separate bills by Senators Hines, entific and technical expertise to guide the The Federation is a truly volunteer McPherson and Ullo, aimed at rectifying the management of the property; organization. It goes without saying that White Lake scheme, failed to pass the Senate - is consistent with the property donor’s our committees are LWF’s heart and soul. I under pressure from then governor Mike stated willingness to consider management invite all of you to get involved by joining at Foster. This time it was different as alternatives for the property; least one of our committees. By doing so, Governor Blanco expressed her strong sup- - makes a strong commitment to man- you will help the Federation accomplish its port for the legislation as it made its way age the property in the best interests of goals and feel the gratification of knowing through the House of Representatives. Louisiana’s citizens and wildlife resources. that you made a difference in the welfare of Act 613 establishes the White Lake The establishment of the White Lake our natural resources and your organization. Property Fund (Fund) in the Conservation Property Advisory Board may proceed upon I hope that you enjoy the rest of the Fund to provide a secure depository for funds signature of the Governor. The other provi- summer and will get to experience Nature in dedicated to the operation and management sions of the legislation creating a trust fund your own special way — whether its bird of the property. The legislation directs that and providing for management of the prop- watching, fishing, hiking, or simply watch- all revenue received by the state that is erty by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife ing a beautiful Louisiana sunset. Rest easy, derived from the property be deposited to the and Fisheries will not go into effect until knowing that it has been a good spring for Fund, along with any private donations and January 1, 2005. This will give the state time conservation and that we will continue public contributions made to the property. to redraw the agreements with the donor and LWF’s work in “Conserving our natural Monies in the Fund will be available only for resolve any matters between BP, the private resources and your right to enjoy them.” the administration, operation, maintenance, corporation created to manage the property Until next time, keep her between the management and enhancement of the White under Governor Foster, White Lake buoys, be safe and enjoy. Tuna out..... Lake property and to promote its wildlife Preservation, Inc., and the state that are nec- and ecosystem conservation, education and essary to implement the trust fund and new Yours in conservation, research purposes. The legislation also estab- management structure for the property. E. R. “Smitty” Smith, III lishes the White Lake Property Advisory President Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 21 CONSERVATION LINE

Toxic Mercury Warnings one ton of mercury into the air in Louisiana this year will kick off a series of canine art Increase in Louisiana each year. featuring the theme “Retrievers Save Three state agencies, the Louisiana Game.” This is a break from the past 16 Departments of Environmental Quality, ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ years, each of which featured one of Health and Hospitals and Wildlife and Fishing Rule Adjustments Louisiana’s major duck or goose species on Fisheries, have issued seven new mercury- Proposed For Poverty Point Reservoir the stamp. The black labrador retriever will in-fish health advisories, while expanding The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries be featured this year. The black lab must be two existing advisories. New advisories Commission has proposed to change the prominent in the design and each entry were issued for the following waters: the slot limit for black bass and the bag limit must also include live waterfowl, selected Amite River Drainage Basin (southeast for both black bass and crappie on Poverty by the artist. Artists may also choose to region), Bayou Bonne Idee (Morehouse), Point Reservoir in Richland Parish. Public include harvested waterfowl in their art Bayou Dorcheat (Webster), Bayou Queue comment will be accepted until August 5th. along with duck decoys, hunting scenes and de Tortue (Acadiana region), Cheniere Lake The proposal would make 15-19 inches the other backgrounds along with wetland (Ouachita), Tew Lake (Catahoula) and the slot in which black bass would have to be habitats. Entries for the competition will I-10 Canal and Work Canal (Iberville). returned to the water with a bag limit of 8 be accepted from October 18 until 4 p.m. Existing advisories were expanded for two bass of which one fish can be over 19 inch- on October 22. To enter, an artist must waterways: the West Fork Calcasieu River es in length. These are the same rules that submit an original, unpublished work of (Southwest region) and the Bayou de apply on other trophy bass lakes in the art, along with a signed and notarized Loutre (Union). Mercury exists naturally in state. The rule would also establish a 25- artist’s agreement and $50 entry fee. soils and is emitted in combustion process- fish daily (and possession while on the Entries should be addressed to Robert es like such as forest fires and volcanic erup- water) creel limit on crappie taken from the Helm, Louisiana Waterfowl Conservation tions that are considered natural processes, lake. Interested persons may submit writ- Stamp Program, Louisiana Department of but anthropogenic (human-caused) sources ten comments of the proposed rule to Wildlife and Fisheries, 2000 Quail Drive, are numerous and growing. Coal-fired Bennie Fontenot, Administrator, Inland Baton Rouge, LA 70808, or P.O. Box power plants, chlor-alkali plants, municipal Fisheries Division, Department of Wildlife 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898. Judging waste incinerators and other sources emit and Fisheries, Box 98000, Baton Rouge, for the art competition will be based on the mercury that falls with rain into water bod- LA, 70898. following criteria: 1. Accuracy of form, size, ies. There it can be converted to methyl proportion, color and posture. 2. Level and mercury which can bioaccumulate in the ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ accuracy of detail in all aspects of the anato- ecosystem as it is ingested by organisms up DMAP and LADT Changes Proposed my of both the retriever and waterfowl. 3. through the food chain to reach toxic con- The LWFC has proposed that the Appropriateness, accuracy and detail in centrations in many species of fish that are LADT program be opened up statewide to depiction of the habitat.4. Attractiveness caught for human consumption. In the any landowner who owns a minimum of 40 and creativity in composition, subject, advisories, the state lists which fish species acres. Under the proposal the participants background and lighting. 5. Suitability for are unsafe to eat, including black bass, crap- would not be required to maintain the reproduction as stamps and prints. pie and other popular sport fish. Methyl- physical data of the antlerless deer taken, The winning design will be selected by mercury is extremely detrimental to human however they would have to post their land a panel of judges with experience in water- health if ingested by sensitive segments of as notice that they are participating in the fowl biology and/or artistic method. the population such as infants, children, program. The proposal makes it mandato- Judging will take place on October 27, at pregnant women and women of childbear- ry for DMAP participants to maintain bio- LDWF headquarters in Baton Rouge. The ing age. Even adult males suffer deleterious logical data on all deer taken on lands competition is open to artists nationwide, effects if they frequently consume contami- enrolled in the program and changes the 18 years of age and older. Employees of nated fish. The damage is to the central deadline for enrollment in the program to LDWF and members of their immediate nervous system and may impair attention August 1 for new enrollments and Sept. 1 families are ineligible. The Louisiana and language abilities, memory, and visual for renewals. It also stipulates that the Waterfowl Conservation Stamp program and motor function. The Environmental antlerless deer taken on DMAP lands will was authorized by the Louisiana Protection Agency (EPA) has estimated 1 in not count against the season bag limits, Legislature in 1988. The program was cre- 6 women of childbearing age has methyl- though the daily limits would still apply. ated to generate revenues for conservation mercury levels above EPA’s safe health Current participants in DMAP that do not and enhancement of waterfowl popula- threshold. Nationally, this translates into wish to continue with the program would tions and their habitats in Louisiana. approximately 630,000 newborns each year be eligible to enroll in LADT. The LWFC During the last 16 years, more than $7.5 starting life with increased risk of neurolog- will take public comments until the rule is million has beengenerated for wetland con- ical impairment from in utero exposure to ratified at its October meeting. servation. Approximately $4.5 million has methyl-mercury. There are now 36 mer- been spent on land acquisition. Private cury-in-fish advisories for Louisiana lakes ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ lands have also benefitted through the and streams and one for the Gulf of State Duck Stamp Competition Louisiana Waterfowl Program, a coopera- Mexico. Permitted air emissions spew over The state Duck Stamp competition tive endeavor between LDWF, Ducks

Page 22 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 CONSERVATION LINE

Unlimited and the Federal Natural known as Eugene Island 322, to LARP in missioning and the department can run the Resource Conservation Service. lieu of removing and disposing of them as program at no cost to the state general otherwise required by law. The platforms fund, but more importantly, it maintains ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ had been damaged and rendered inopera- valuable fishery habitat and provides fish- Moreland Named LDWF Wildlife tive by Hurricane Lili in the fall of 2002. ing and diving opportunities for the resi- Division Administrator BP decided to donate the platforms to the dents of Louisiana.” The new artificial reef Long-time Louisiana Deer Study program so that they could become part of is located in the Eugene Island area, Leader David Moreland has been named an artificial reef that will enhance the habi- approximately 90 miles south of Marsh the new Wildlife Division Administrator tat for fish and other marine organisms that Island. The coordinates are: 28 degrees, 17 for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife require hard structure to grow and thrive. minutes and 22 seconds North; 91 degrees, and Fisheries. Moreland is replacing The platforms were decommissioned and 21 minutes and 04 seconds West. Tommy Prickett, who retired from the scrubbed clean. Then, the eight piles that position in May. Moreland has been with held the two platforms were cut using a dia- ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ the department since 1976, when he was mond-bladed wire cutter, and the platforms Hunting & Fishing hired as a biologist in District 7. He sank to the bottom. The company opted to Big Business in Louisiana became the District 7 Game Division mechanically cut the piles rather than use Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Supervisor in 1978 and served in that explosives that might damage harm fish and Fisheries Secretary Dwight Landreneau capacity until 1992, when he was named sea turtles and marine mammals in the took the opportunity of a recent visit to the Deer Study Leader. Moreland has become vicinity. The financial contribution will Sixth Annual “Real Thing” archery tourna- well known and regarded in this position, help to fund the maintenance of the reef ment organized by the Amite River both in Louisiana and across the southeast- and others in the program. Oil and gas Traditional Archery Club to talk about the ern portion of the country. Moreland platforms attract and provide habitat for economic value of hunting and fishing in received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees various species of fish. The Louisiana Louisiana. While almost everyone is aware in biology from Northeastern Louisiana Artificial Reef Program provides an oppor- of Louisiana’s traditional role as the University. He has authored dozens of tunity to sustain the fisheries values of the Sportsman’s Paradise, few realize the real publications regarding his work with the platforms even after they are no longer difference that outdoor sports make to the Louisiana deer herd and other topics. Most capable of producing energy resources. The economy. Hunting and fishing total “over recently he was recognized with the area around this particular platform has a billion dollars in economic impact,” said Louisiana Outdoor Writers Association particularly high levels of gag grouper and Landreneau. “And that’s real business.” Arthur Van Pelt Award for a lifetime of con- scamp, according to LARP Manager Rick Landreneau referred to figures published by servation achievement. LDWF Secretary Kasprzak. “It is possible that these high the U.S. Fish and WildlifeService that indi- Dwight Landreneau expressed his confi- cate almost a million people from in and dence in the Division Administrator saying, out of state fished in Louisiana during “David Moreland is very respected in his 2001. Factoring in the gas they bought, the field and we are sure that he will bring pro- meals they ate and the hotel rooms they fessionalism and enthusiasm to this new rented, those anglers spent over $700 mil- position. We are very fortunate to have lion. That same year, 333,000 resident and someone of his caliber heading our Wildlife non-resident huntersspent nearly $450 mil- Division, and the state’s hunters will bene- lion. That economic effect is felt statewide, fit from his expertise.” according to Landreneau. “We want to make sure that people understand that ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ Hugh Depland (L), BP Public Affairs General Manager ‘hunting and fishing’ also applies to lodg- BP Donates Offshore Platforms, $500k presents a check to LDWF secretary Dwight Landreneau ing, to restaurant meals and experiences in to Louisiana Artificial Reef Program representing the company’s donation of a portion of its other things. There are so many opportu- savings from contributing two offshore energy platforms Representatives from BP America to the Louisiana Artificial Reef Program. Participating in nities for people to stay and enjoy Production Company were in Baton Rouge the presentation are KarL Connor, BP’s Director of Louisiana; we hope that hunting and fish- recently to donate a half million dollars to Governmental affairs in Louisiana, LDWF Undersecretary ing brings these people here.” The tourna- the Louisiana Artificial Reef Janice Lansing, Asst. Secretary of the Office of Fisheries ment was held at LDWF’s Waddill Wildlife Program(LARP). The check was presented John Roussel and LARP Manager Rick Kasprzak. Refuge and Outdoor Education Center to LDWF Secretary Dwight Landreneau by levels are due to the fact that this may be an located at 4142 North Flannery Road. The BP Director of Governmental Affairs in important spawning area for these species. facility, which boasts two stocked catfish Louisiana, Karl Connor, and Hugh That’s why we are especially pleased to keep ponds (catch & release only), nature trails, Depland, BP Public Affairs General this structure here.” “This program is truly a swamp, the Comite River and picnic facil- Manager out of the company’s corporate a win-win situation for the energy compa- ities, is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 offices in Houston. It represented approxi- nies and the habitat,” said Secretary p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. mately one-half the savings that accrued to Landreneau. “It is a win-win situation for BP from contributing the structures, all concerned. BP saves money on decom-

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 23 30th Wildfowl Festival August 14-15 in Westwego

world as a major accomplishment. ists paintings are another big attraction as After 29 performances over the past 3 There is something for everyone. are the primitive decoys on display. The decades one would be looking for a change. Professional, Amateur, and Novice and the vendors that attend, demonstrating their “Get rid of that old hat,” you might be competitions are extremely diversified. show-their related products, is a mini-show expecting to hear. Not so with the Some of the favorite categories are : in itself. Louisiana Wildfowl Carvers and Collectors Decorative Wildfowl, Songbirds, Birds of The two day festival culminates with Guild (LWCCG)Festival. They are still Prey, Fish, Miniature Boats, Relief Carving, the Sunday afternoon Auction. Some inter- clamoring for more. Why? Simply because and of course, the traditional working esting and collectable pieces can be yours if the show continues to get better each year. decoys that are floated in the tank. Also, you are the lucky bidder. Is this Bragging? You bet! there is the head whittling and painting con- When and where? On August 14 and The LWCCG is an all volunteer, non- tests. 15, 2004 at the modern John A. Alario, Sr. profit organization with an open member- Aside from the three-dimensional art Event Center in Westwego. There is plenty ship. It was originally formed in 1971 and there is the Flat Art and Photography com- of parking on site and hotel accommoda- held its first festival in 1974. The event was petitions and the Federal Duck Stamp final- tions are available nearby. See you there. extremely well received and the strong favor- able response from the public that first year was the impetus needed to make it an annu- al event. It has been improved each year by adding new categories for all classifications as well as increasing the monetary prizes and Purchase Awards. For the last 6 consecutive years the prestigious Wildfowl Carving Magazine has featured this outstanding annual August event. Premier carvers and artists compete for the honor of winning the “Blue” and the national recognition attached to it. And for the “Professional” this also means an oppor- tunity to take home a share of the handsome prize monies from Purchase Awards and other individual contests. Winning in New Orleans is well recognized in the carving

About the Cover: Continued from page 2 nice specks like these on the cover. But it’s also a fact that they won’t go where One of the opportunities of surf fishing is that you can castnet or seine for your bait (with the proper, legal gear) they cannot attract the employees that make wet.). It’s just you and the quiet surf lapping at your belly. right on the beach, then load up the floating bait bucket. the business run. These days, a healthy “Landing” a good one in the surf is a judgement call. Since That’s especially advantageous when the trout are being environment with quality outdoor recre- you have to hold the rod with one hand, and take the persnickety about what they’ll eat. But if they are feeding ation opportunities are among the expecta- wiggling, thrashing fish off with the other, you risk losing at all in the surf, then the small fish or shrimp that are the fish if it flips off and slips from your grasp before getting caught in the bait net are likely to be what they are eating. tions of employees, employees who can it on the stringer or in the basket. Alternatively, you can Presented properly, you can do pretty well with beach bait. choose to work elsewhere. Louisiana can do walk the fish backward toward the beach to truly land it These fish were taken about midday with small pompano better, and we all should be willing to roll up and secure it for the ice chest. Even if you’re up to your about the size of a silver dollar that were caught in a bait our sleeves to pitch in and help. neck in the surf when you hook a big one and have to net and fished on the bottom with a slip sinker. retreat 60 or 70 yards to the beach, most folks don’t mind What do you say? Time to hit the surf and go fishing! We’ve been talking about leadership taking this little extra walk now and then when the fish are and what we need and want from our lead- running 3 pounds and better. ers. But at this time, more than at anytime Wait, I forgot to mention that you have to be able to get to at least in my lifetime, our leaders need the beach. There aren’t many places in Louisiana where Executive Director: Continued from page 18 you can walk or drive a short distance to the beach. The something from us. They need our prayers few are Holly Beach in Cameron Parish and Grand Isle and the value from their resource with incentives for wisdom and courage to make the right the Elmer’s Island to Belle Pass headland in Jefferson and that will benefit the resources that belong to decisions about the lives they hold in their LaFourche Parishes. With the closure of Elmer’s Island to hands. As they go, we go. We want our the public and restrictions on access to the Fourchon beach all of us, while providing vital protection for in recent years, accessible surf fishing spots are at a our coast. sportsmen and women to come back safe to premium. But back in the good old days, when you could It’s a fact that businesses locate where the Sportsman’s Paradise. God bless them. drive your truck to the beach at Elmer’s Island for the small Thank you. fee charged by the owner, you could set up and catch some they have the resources to operate profitably.

Page 24 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Butterfly Gardens: Common and Not So Common Story and Photos by Gary Noel Ross and a perfumery of fragrances provided vital nonetheless. décor for kitchen tables and to pleasure But time moved on. Come the later our psyches as we whiled away evening part of the twentieth century, technology hours in cypress rockers on shaded porch- introduced previously unimagined won- es; and veggies, herbs, and fruits fur- ders onto the world market. Everyone, nished fresh kitchen produce. Moreover, of course, wanted a piece of the new medical scientists agree that the outdoor “American Dream.” But the increased gardening experience facilitated the shak- consumerism necessitated longer work ing off of the all too common wintertime hours for all. Since time was money, per- blues while at the same time provided sonal gardening for flowers and produce just the right amount of physical activity on our new and grander landholdings no to keep muscles in tone and heart disease longer fit the new life style. Fortuitously, at bay. From an ecological perspective, help was at hand, namely, Louisiana State the gardens featured a healthy communi- University’s School of Landscape ty of wildlife. Bees buzzed, butterflies Architecture. Inspired by the bold cre- fluttered, and hummingbirds zoomed in ative flare of Mr. Steele Burden, chief and out as they worked the flowers for landscaper for the university’s sprawling nectar and pollen. Small predators campus, and chaired by the equally tal- abounded, too. For example, praying ented Dr. Robert Reich, the new school mantises, ladybird beetles, assassin bugs, concentrated on structured design or ambush bugs, wasps, ants, and spiders “garden architecture” to relate to the dispatched many an unwary crawler or unique and natural residential landscapes hopper. Dragonflies patrolled for winged of the Deep South. (By contrast, the Cloudless sulphur butterfly nectaring on cardinal visitors. There even was a coterie of hun- majority of similar schools across the flower (Lobelia cardinalis), a spectacular fall-blooming gry frogs, toads, lizards, skinks, birds and nation focused on large scale commercial wildflower found on damp sites along creek bottoms perhaps even a non-poisonous snake or enterprises.) The signature trend that can be easily grown in the yard. It sets the standard for “red” in the landscape. two. In truth, the homespun cottage gar- embraced panoramic, sinuous beds dom- den of yesteryear was a microcosm within inated by a canopy of shade trees (fre- the cosmic circle of life - accidental, but quently live oaks) with an understory of

If like I you are sixty plus in age, you most likely remember when it was com- monplace for both rural and urban hous- es to be surrounded by flower beds, veg- etable gardens and, yes, even the prover- bial white picket fence. In those days, Mom and Pop spent the relative cool of each summer morning lovingly attending to the needs of these utilitarian land- scapes. Tools were simple: hoes, trowels, spades, and rakes. The gardens were watered with a hand-held hose, and since chemical insecticides and herbicides were just entering the commercial market, weeds and pesky insects were meticulous- ly removed by hand. Some of the larger critters even became the “toy” of the day for children growing up in an age with Your neighbors may think you’ve been away all summer, but to the butterflies, it’s an amusement park with plenty of nectar to sip and host few sophisticated playthings. The work plants to lay their eggs on. Here, swamp sunflower and blue mist flower are prominent, along with lantana and other butterfly favorites lining the walk. was tedious, but the payoff was more than generous: a color-dot matrix of color

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 25 This nostalgia has become so euphorical- ly contagious that none other than the NATIONAL WILDLIFE FEDERA- TION, actively homes in on urban wildlife programs (see NWF’s “Backyard Wildlife Habitat” and “Schoolyard Habitats” programs) to promote its prin- cipal goal of wildlife conservation. That’s the idea, anyway. Reality often isn’t quite so simple, however. Over years of delivering programs on wildlife gardening I have learned that many homeowners still consider gardening for wildlife a bit iffy. Specifically, there seems to be a widespread presumption that wildlife gardens of any sort are dom- inated by rampant “weeds” that spew pollen allergens into the air, harbor “worms” and other vermin, and create a neighborhood eyesore. And when it It’s not all fun and games out their in the butterfly garden. “Watch out, there’s a mantis! Oops, too late.” comes to butterfly gardens, the notable challenges involve distinctions between evergreen shrubs, bushes and ground cov- interest centers on the creation of friend- nectar, host, native, and exotic plants, ers (azaleas, boxwood, camellias, garde- ly habitats for butterflies and humming- what color flowers work best, and how nias, hollies, ligustrum, nandina, pit- birds. I believe the reasons are routed in best to prepare the flower bed. Since tosporum, lariope, mondo grass, Asian the biological and psychological forces countless would-be wildlife stewards fre- jasmine and aspidistra, for examples). quently feel intimidated by conflicting Those flowering annuals that were advice, to clarify and to encourage I offer included usually were the latest hybrids, personal observations based on my long- engineered for “super blooms,” but term experiences with butterflies and gar- unfortunately rendered sterile and nectar- dening. free. By the late 1960’s and throughout Nectar vs. Host Plants the 1970’s, the school was recognized The world of butterflies and the nationally as one of the top in the nation. world of plants are inextricable. Simply Primed by the good publicity, fashionable put, nectar plants feed adult butterflies homeowners were eager to engage the and host plants feed immature butterflies avant-garde graduates to showcase their (think caterpillars and metamorphosis). latest creations. Many of the installations With only a few exceptions, butterflies do (now referred to as “landscapes” rather not lay eggs on their nectar plants. After than “gardens”) were true eyepoppers. all, if a caterpillar (“worm” is a mis- Besides, with their high degree of low nomer) were to feed on its adult’s nectar light, automatic watering systems and plant, than the butterfly would be short periodic drenching with insecticides, the changed of a food source. As is, compe- landscapes required minimum attention, tition between young and adults is easily provided by a burgeoning fleet of reduced and resources are maximized. A maintenance contractors. Sadly, though, savvy butterfly gardener should include butterflies and hummingbirds found very Caterpillars, or crawlers as butterfly folk call them, can both nectar and host plants. Since these few of the plants of interest. As a result, be really cool looking like this spicebush swallowtail larva munching on a sassafras leaf. plants require lots of sunlight for maxi- many insects along with other forms of mum performance, select locations that wildlife, gradually retreated to the more receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each hospitable countryside. And those vases that tie and nostalgically endear us to the day. If for whatever reason you cannot of fresh-cut flowers and plates of crispy natural world. For instance, butterflies tolerate caterpillars, simply do not culinary delights that had enriched our and hummingbirds are undeniably aes- include host plants. But by excluding kitchen tables? Well, plastic or silk flow- thetic and energetic. These feathered butterfly reproductive sites, you greatly ers along with canned, quick-frozen, and acrobats and gossamer-winged ballerinas reduce the numbers of butterflies and the even “fresh” produce could be conve- prompt us to reflect back on what amount of time each butterfly spends on niently purchased at a nearby market Shakespeare referred to as “salad days,” your turf. Furthermore, you deprive operating on a 24/7 schedule. that is, a time when the thoughts of our yourself of an opportunity to enjoy and Recently, there has been a renais- youth were long and when we were to share with others a butterfly’s meta- sance for “ole time”gardening. Most blessed with unbridled time and energy. morphic life cycle, surely a specter of Page 26 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Mother Nature that is so magical that it relocated into a region different from its probably are sterile, and for this reason, inspires us to contemplate life’s great original home. While many exotic plants non-seductive to pollinators. Suggestion: journey. [NOTE: The Gulf Fritillary are pests, many others are extremely Select classic varieties of plants, remem- butterfly is the “brainiest” of Louisiana’s ornamental, forming the basis for the bering: “Oldies But Goodies.” And flower color? It is important to note that butterflies do not register the light spectrum as we do. More tellingly, most butterflies are particularly sensitive to ultraviolet wavelengths totally invisible to humans. Often what appears to us as a uniform color (white, for example) has particular ultraviolet markings that serve as beacons for directing a butterfly to a precise landing and feeding site. Consequently, our visual spectrum does not allow us to single out one particular color that best attracts butterflies. I sug- gest that you experiment or else consult local guides that list time-tested plants.* One other tip regarding blossoms: rou- tinely dead head, that is, remove spent flowers to encourage the production of additional blooms. Then there are the vegetative parts of plants. For example, many plant species But look out, some caterpillars are prime groceries for other insects, like this paper wasp taking advantage of a synthesize and store complex chemicals black swallowtail crawler. generally referred to as phytochemicals. These substances are not used directly in native butterflies. When Gulf Fritillaries world’s vast floral and nursery trade. home in on their host, native passion- Some nurserymen specializing in native flower vine (maypop) or another blue or plants often promote natives as easier to lavender flowering exotic species, the cultivate than exotics. Yet to the con- butterflies often remain within the vicin- trary, native species usually demand envi- ity for their entire life spans.] Do not get ronmental conditions that the average alarmed if you discover that your garden gardener cannot easily replicate. hosts appear to be under siege. After all, My research in Louisiana indicates we include these specific plants as a food that local butterflies are attracted to source for caterpillars. Although the BOTH native and exotic plant species. plants will exhibit serious leaf damage Such is understandable since butterflies and perhaps even be defoliated, these have adapted much of their feeding and conditions are only temporary. Plants reproductive behaviors to specific and generally recover after caterpillars com- chemical cues provided by plants. Take, plete their life stage and move elsewhere for example, the reproductive organ of to pupate or transform into a chrysalis. the majority of plants, the flower. For (Need I mention that insecticides should pollination and subsequent seed produc- NEVER to be used within the garden?) tion to occur, pollen must be transported Lastly, what, you may ask, about those by some mechanical means from one caterpillars that sting? No problem. flower to another. Usually this is facili- Caterpillars of all North American but- tated by either the wind or animals. In terflies are harmless to humans. On the fact, within the vast kingdom of plants, other hand, there are five or so species of many species feature flowers that are moths whose caterpillars possess stinging designed to lure specific guests: flies, or irritating hairs. bees, beetles, bats, and of course, butter- If you’ve got an orange or lemon tree in the yard, you might have some “orange dogs” gobbling up the Native vs. Exotic Species flies and birds. Plants that have flowers foliage. Don’t squish them. With a little time they’ll Native is synonymous with indige- designed to tempt butterflies will do so if be transformed into giant swallowtail butterflies. nous; a native plant, therefore, is one that the plant is growing in its native soil or in occurs naturally within a geographic a distant exotic venue. Ergo, country of region, country, or continent. On the origin is unimportant. Keep in mind, internal metabolic pathways of the plant; other hand, an exotic is a plant that is an however, cultivars of species known to be instead they are produced to either attract alien, that is, a species that has become butterfly and hummingbird friendly, or repel other organisms ranging from Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 27 microbes to vertebrates. Phytochemicals within a given genus, several genera with- again in mid July. Granted, at first the can be stored in any organ of the plant. in a given family, or even species and gen- plants look mutilated, but after 2-3 Those sequestered in leaves usually era within related families - often distrib- weeks, new shoots develop in the axes of uted around the globe. Accordingly, the some of the leaves below the cut. Then choice between exotic or native is moot, when fall arrives, the plants are shorter, at least relative to attracting butterflies. bushier and actually sport substantially But not entirely. In Louisiana I have more flowers-certainly no eyesore. After learned that five butterfly-friendly flowering, I again clip back to ground natives have a decided propensity for tak- level. ing over my garden, and left to their own Finally, butterfly-friendly plants are devices, will produce a “Yard from Hell.” generally NOT responsible for producing These invasives are all autumn-bloomers: pollen allergens that trigger hay fever and ironweed (Vernonia altissima), mistflower related respiratory disorders. The rank or wild ageratum (Eupatorium and file culprits usually include both coelestinum), goldenrod (Solidago spp.), native and exotic species of trees, grasses, wild bergamot or bee balm (Monarda fis- and the homely ragweed (Ambrosia) - all tulosa), and narrow-leaved sunflower of which produce inconspicuous flowers (Helianthus angustifolius). Most propa- whose pollen is dispersed by wind rather gate by both seed and underground than insects. shoots, a characteristic of invasive plant Preparation of the Flower Bed species. Seed germination is relatively Most garden experts agree that atten- easy to control. I keep my garden heavi- tion to initial bed preparation is the most ly mulched with pine straw throughout important task when it comes to the year. Because of Louisiana’s high installing a flower/vegetable garden. rainfall, the mulch maintains relatively When deciding on location, always select high soil moisture. In turn, this facili- a sunny venue that is free of compacted Here’s one that has just emerged from the cocoon or chrysalis. tates the growth of fungi and bacteria. tree roots. Herbaceous flowering plants Thus, during the winter most seeds fer- are particularly responsive to a soil that is ment and decompose; those that do loose in texture and aerated, that is, well release information into the environment sprout, I hand pluck. Subsurface shoots drained. Therefore, construct the flower that is interpreted by potential herbivores are more troublesome, though. If left bed so that it is a least six to eight inches as “I taste bad, leave me alone” or if the unattended, dense clusters of plants con- above ground level. (Actually, most gar- leaf is under attack, “Help!” to attract tinually expand to the limits of the gar- den-variety plants in Louisiana do best in predators. Over eons, the insect world den, crowding out virtually all other a soil that dries thoroughly between has responded to these chemical arsenals species. To counteract, each fall after watering because a waterlogged soil is the with clever tricks of their own. And flowering I get on my hands and knees, perfect medium for fungal diseases and when it comes to outsmarting the plant and using a trowel, dig a substantial ultimate root rot.) Perhaps unexpected world, butterflies are the unequivocal number of rooted stems around the because of Louisiana’s relatively uniform masters. Case in point: host plants. A periphery of each clump. I share the culls geography and subtropical climate, the butterfly host plant is a species that early with fellow gardeners or simply discard. state features a variety of major soil types. in its history synthesized a specific toxin If I detect a resurgence of too much For those regions with underlying clay or to repel caterpillars and other plant-eat- spread the following spring, I repeat the muck (Baton Rouge region and south of ing predators. (While the majority of procedure. With periodic culling I can Lake Pontchartrain, for example), I sug- hosts are herbaceous, many trees are maintain a diverse garden. This is the gest augmenting the basic soil with included. In Louisiana, at least twenty- time-honored method of Southern gar- masonry sand, river silt, pea gravel and five percent of resident butterflies utilize dening by extraction. One other tip organic material (aged barnyard manure, trees). Not to be outdone, as time passed regarding these invasives: prune regularly. household compost and pine bark all some butterfly species gradually devised Since the soil in my garden is rich, and work). By contrast, where the soil is rel- cunning chemical manipulations to ren- since Louisiana is blessed (some might atively sandy or loamy (for instance cen- der the poisons ineffective. What’s more, say cursed!) with a long growing season, tral and north Louisiana), the emphasis in some cases the chemical eventually native plants can become noxious (I have should be on amending with lots of became incorporated into the butterfly’s observed individual stems of narrow- organic material. Finally, if you follow own metabolism. Voila! Nature evolved leaved sunflower at 10 feet and stems of these suggestions, you most likely do not an obligatory plant-butterfly association ironweed at 8 feet). These “titans” are have to be concerned with the soil’s pH, in which phytochemicals originally prone to wind damage and a bedraggled that is, acidity or alkalinity. To conclude, designed as toxins to repel, today func- appearance, conditions that are not at all time initially spent on bed preparation tion as elixirs. To boot, these complex appealing to most of your neighbors. To will be more than compensated for with substances usually are not limited to a short-circuit extraordinary growth, I robust flowers-and those all important single species of plant, but rather are severely prune each stem to within a foot resplendent garden visitors. shared with related species, for example, of the ground-once in mid May and then Page 28 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 Butterfly Garden Addendum and wild), Celery and Queen Anne’s Tibby Sez: Continued from page 30 Lace for Black Swallowtail: E, N TOP BUTTERFLY ATTRACTING 3. Passionvines (Passiflora) for Gulf tions, habitat, etc. PLANTS FOR LOUISIANA Fritillary and Variegated Fritillary: E, N I send Jamie clippings of the Louisiana 4. Sassafras, Spicebush (Lindera) and (E= exotic; N=native) Wildlife and Fisheries activities and articles Camphor (Cinnamomum) for regarding conservation. She enjoys that very Nectar Plants Spicebush Swallowtail: E, N much. I better make her a member of the 1. Lantana (Son Rise/Set and Miss Huff for tall 5. Cassia Tree and Partridge Pea (Cassia) varieties; New Gold, Gold/Silver Mound, for Cloudless Sulphur, Sleepy Purple/White Trailing for short vari Orange, Little Yellow: E, N eties): E 6. Citrus, Rue, Prickly Ash or Tooth- `2. Pentas (Nova for large variety; ache Tree (Zanthoxylum) for Giant Butterfly Cherry Red for short vari Swallowtail: E, N ety): E 7. Hackberry (Celtis) for American 3. Zinnias (Sunshine mix for tall variety; Snout, Hackberry Butterfly, Tawny Profusion and Crystal/Star Emperor, Question Mark, Mourning White/Yellow/Golden/Orange for Cloak): N short varieties): E `8. Oaks (Quercus) for Banded 4. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia): E Hairstreak, Striped Hairstreak, 5. Mexican Butterfly Weed (Asclepias): E Southern Hairstreak, White-M 6. Gayfeather/Blazing Star/Liatris: N Hairstreak, Gray Hairstreak, Red- 7. Buttonbush (Cephalanthus): N banded Hairstreak, Spring/Summer Jamie and her Dad view an egret rookery at Lake Martin. 8. Porterweed (Stachytarpheta): N, E Azure, Red-spotted Purple, Juvenal’s 9. Verbenas: N, E Duskywing, Horace’s Duskywing: N Louisiana Wildlife Federation and the Baton 10.Ironweed (Vernonia): N `9. Tulip Tree/Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron) Rouge Sportsmen’s League. It amazed me to and Ashes (Fraxinus) for Eastern see how interested she was in the sights we saw. Host Plants Tige Swallowtail: N The rice was up in some places, she liked that. 1. Mexican Butterfly Weed for Monarch 10. Willows (Salix) for Viceroy, Red- She once said that she would not come back to and Queen butterflies: E spotted Purple, Banded Hairstreak, Louisiana, but now it seems to me that has 2. Parsley, Fennel, Dill, Carrots (edible Mourning Cloak: N, E changed, but we’ll see. We still see where some people litter, pollute, use electricity and water when they do not need it. These are conserva- tion matters, too, along with recycling. I’m sorry I missed the Earth Day celebra- tion that was held in Baton Rouge. We had visitors from out of town and I could not make it, much to my regret. I wish all the anglers good luck. Be sure not to litter or take over the limit. Remind your friends to do the same. My neighbor, Robert Cockerham, lives behind me in a subdivision that has a pond. His grandchildren catch small bream and turn them loose. About 15 bream go for the bait at one time, and that is something to see. Look out when they get big! Sometimes I join them as it’s better than no fishing at all. Enjoy the outdoor activities while you can. Being old and unable to go in the sun is very depressing, believe me. It is not too early to practice duck and goose calling in preparation for the state and world duck calling contests, and of course, for the forthcoming hunting season. Take a look at your equipment, decoys, etc. We all hope we will have a better season this year. Bonne chance a la peche et tous la nature.

Ole Tibby

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 29 TIBBY SEZ AFFILIATE Ole Tibby Mervis Saltzman, a rice farmer near Gueydan, CLUBS the Duck Capital of the World. She wanted to see the rice farms. We left Baton Rouge at 7 DISTRICT 1 AM and returned at 9 PM. I was excited to go, Little Tchefuncte River Association as I had not visited Rockefeller and Lake Pontchartrain Hunting Retriever Club Martin before. There were plenty of alligators, ducks and other birds in the refuge. We also DISTRICT 2 visited Holly Beach, as Jamie is also interested Clio Sportsman’s League in coastal erosion. She said the same thing Jefferson Rod and Gun Club many experts are saying about the waterfowl Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation — they are there but do not go all the way south. DISTRICT 3 Bon jour, mes amis. Congratulations to Sonny Ourso, a past 4-time Louisiana Acadiana Bay Association the new leaders in the Federation. I know you State Duck Calling champion who placed 4th Iberia Rod and Gun Club will do well. I was really impressed and proud one year in the World Calling Contest, and I of the reports and resolutions that came out of went to a Delta Waterfowl program to talk DISTRICT 4 the convention earlier this year and that were about where the ducks were this past season. Claiborne Parish Hunting and Fishing Club covered in the last issue of the LWF magazine. Delta says that placing “hen houses” on the Twin Creek Hunting Club I add my congratulations to the recipients of breeding grounds is one effective way to pro- the conservation awards. You all deserve it. It duce more ducks, especially mallards. Artificial DISTRICT 5 Friends of Black Bayou is hard on me, not being able attend the con- feeding (putting corn out and growing crops ventions anymore because of health concerns, just to attract waterfowl) is causing the ducks DISTRICT 6 but I am proud to be a member of such a won- to stay longer up north. Also many are staying American Sportsmen Against Poachers derful organization as the Louisiana Wildlife on the refuges where they are not being shot at. Baton Rouge Sportsmen’s League Federation. In other words, the ducks are being short Citizens For A Clean Environment One of my granddaughters, Jamie (Jay’s stopped. Remember we went through that CFACT daughter), was visiting here for the Easter some years ago. What will we do about it? East Ascension Sportsmen’s League break. She asked to go see the Rockefeller The LWF has proposed prohibiting hunting of Lake Maurepas Society Refuge. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin and waterfowl over artificially flooded standing Triangle “T” Sportsmen’s League

DISTRICT 7 Acadiana Sportsmen’s League Southwest Louisiana Wildlife Association Westlake Hunting Club

DISTRICT 8 Avoyelles Wildlife Federation Bayou Bassmasters of Alexandria Rapides Wildlife Association

DISTRICT 9 Louisiana Toledo Bend Lake Association South Toledo Bend Civic Association Toledo Bend Bi-State Alliance

STATEWIDE Tibby (R) and Granddaughter Jamie visiting with Mervis and Wilda Saltzman at their home in Gueydan. Mervis, along Association of Louisiana Bass Clubs with his son Kendall, are makers of the famous La Chien Caille duck and goose calls. Bayou State Bowhunters Association Louisiana Association of Professional is an employee of the Wisconsin Department crops that are not planted according to normal Biologists of Natural Resources (like our Department of agricultural practices. For example, flooding La. Chapter, National Wild Turkey Wildlife and Fisheries), much to my liking - an unharvested milo field and hunting over or Federation wonder what made her interested in that? She within a specified distance of it would be ille- La. Chapter Safari Club International conducts hunter safety programs and is also gal. That would discourage some of the prac- Louisiana Charter Boat Association very interested in the environment, wildlife tices that are shortstopping our waterfowl. I do Louisiana Trappers and Alligator Hunters and fish. Boy, did she like seeing all the birds not hunt anymore as I’m physically unable to. Association and other wildlife at Rockefeller and Lake But I am still very concerned regarding condi- Louisiana Wildlife Rehabilitators Association Martin and asked many questions. We visited Continued on page 29

Page 30 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004 LOUISIANA WILDLIFE FEDERATION Your investment in “Conserving our natural resources and the right to enjoy them.”

Please enroll me as a member of the Louisiana Wildlife Federation Visit our web site at www.lawildlifefed.org where you can join online.

Name:______Email Addres______Address:______(City)______(State)______(Zip)______Phone: Home______Work______Check preferred member category below, attach your payment, and mail to: LWF, P.O. Box 65239 Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239. Sustaining – $35 (LWF lapel pin or logo license plate) Sponsor – $100 (sponsor plaque) Business – $50 (LWF logo T-shirt; M - L - XL) Corporate – $1,000 (framed, limited edition s/n wildlife print) Basic/Student – $15 Payment enclosed but don’t send me anything but Louisiana WILDLIFE Federation magazine. Please send information about your individual or corporate life membership. All levels of membership include a subscription to Louisiana WILDLIFE Federation magazine.

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004, Page 31 Page 32 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, July 2004