Volume 4, Issue 2

October 2011 Chairman’s Update

By Rob Bohmann and we had a blast! I hope that all of you have This was our first time had a great summer, and hunting bear with dogs, now that fall is here, you are and I can assure you finding time to spend afield that it won’t be our last. to harvest some of Wiscon- Mike and his gang sin’s plentiful bounty or just worked their tails off to enjoy the great outdoors. make sure that Andrew would get his first bear. Work has been hectic this On the third day of the past summer, but I was able hunt, he harvested his to get in quite a bit of first bear that dressed salmon fishing. Coho num- out at 323 pounds. Mike absences from their meetings. bers were great this year, dragged my son over four thanks to Salmon Unlimited The Executive Committee also miles thru some of the thick- and the DNR collaborating requested that all committees est bear country that I had with the state of Michigan a that have been assigned resolu- ever seen. They even crossed couple of years ago to help tions, schedule their meeting thru water that was waist with the stocking of Cohos. prior to November 30. I want to deep. At the end of it all, Chinooks and Rainbows thank all committee chairs for Mike and his gang gave my were more difficult to find responding to this request. Other son and I some wonderful this year, but they finally than the Bear Committee and memories that will last us a showed up in late August. the Migratory Committee, lifetime. whose meetings were exempted I even found time to do The Executive Committee and are scheduled for December some Walleye fishing in nd met in June for appointing 2 , all committee meetings will Green Bay, and we were th delegates to committees for be done by October 15 . This fortunate to experience great 2011-2012. It is our inten- will not only help Kari in get- action every time we made tion to work with all council- ting the Executive Council pre- the trip. ors next year to make sure pared for our January meeting, I was successful in drawing that every district has repre- but it gets everyone out in the bear harvest tag this year, sentation on every commit- field to enjoy the fall hunting and I transferred it to my tee, with two exceptions, seasons. oldest son, Andrew. Andrew Great Lakes and Mississippi In addition, those committees and I hunted with Mike River. We will continue to that have any resolutions being Rogers (Sauk County) and remove delegates from com- forwarded from their commit- his gang up in Iron County mittees who had unexcused tees to the Continued on page 2 Act 21 and the Annual Spring Meetings

By Kari Lee-Zimmermann, two different times in the new with the department, because WCC Liaison process, a comprehensive eco- the DNR is not able to for- nomic impact analysis is re- ward actual rule proposals Act 21 was passed by the quired prior to a public hear- each year. The department legislature, signed into law ing, an additional NRB ap- can only put forth proposed by the governor and went proval is required, and the leg- rule changes every other year, into effect on June 7, 2011. islative review process has since it takes two years for the

WISCONSIN CONSERVATION CONGRESS CONSERVATION WISCONSIN Act 21 is a law that curbs been extended to include an cycle from beginning to end. the ability of all state agen- additional committee. Rules Rule proposals will only be cies to create administrative may not be referred for review forwarded to the spring meet- rules by effectively adding between April and December ing in odd-numbered years. steps to the process which in even-numbered years. Department staff and the sec- allow the legislature more For the Congress, this makes it retary’s office met with WCC oversight and add a year to difficult to hold an annual leaders on a number of occa- the process. The governor’s

Conservation Chronicle “spring hearing” in conjunction sions to approval is required at least Continued on page 12 Friends of the WCC Fund Youth Transportation to Outdoor Expo

Photo and article by Lee Lee Fahrney for helping with set Fahrney up and of staffing of the exhibit. Three schools attended the The Conservation Congress was Wisconsin Outdoor Educa- also well-represented at the Wis- tion Expo, May 19-20, with consin Trappers Association ex- the assistance of transporta- hibit which included skinning tion grants from the Wiscon- demonstrations of various species sin Conservation Congress. including beaver, otter and musk- In addition to students and rat. Juneau County delegate Dan chaperones from Hilbert Carroll was particularly busy skin- Elementary School pictured, ning dozens of carcasses through- schools from Madison and out the two-day event. Student Green Bay also received response: “Yuk!” – followed by grants. More than 125 stu- much shoving and pushing to get dents were able to attend the even closer to the action! Other event with our assistance. WCC delegates assisting were More than 125 4th and 5th grade students attended the Wisconsin Out- Scott McAuley fromWood County The Expo, held each year at door Education Expo after receiving transportation grants from the and Scott Zimmerman of Dodge the Dodge County fair- Wisconsin Conservation Congress. Included was this large contingent County. grounds in Beaver Dam, from Hilbert Elementary School. welcomed more than 3,500 Dodge County Delegate Dale th th 4 and 5 grade students to this interactive was one of the featured attractions at the Maas was once again instrumental in hands-on outdoor experience. The Conser- event. Thanks to Congress delegates Jim organizing the entire event. vation Congress’ Wall of Fame exhibit Burmeister, Rick Swenson, Jim Shurts and

Chairman’s Update...continued from page 1

Executive Council for possible inclusion potential benefit to the resource outweigh the pending legislation, the Youth Congress, in the spring questionnaire, should have challenges of the proposed change. and modifications to future spring meet- those written in question format, and ings. The Executive Council at its meet- The Executive Committee met with DNR forwarded to Kari by November 30th. ing in January, will discuss how the town leadership on July 18th to discuss this charge Please work closely with your committee hall meeting part will be handled and and the implications of Act 21. After meeting liaisons and Kari so that we have well- provide direction for county delegates with DNR leadership, we felt that it was best written backgrounds and questions to through the District Councilors at the to schedule an Executive Council meeting to discuss at the January Executive Council spring District Meetings. discuss Act 21, and its impact on how we do meeting. our business. Lastly, I have heard and read a lot of I received a letter from Governor negative discussions on how Act 21 is an The Executive Council met on September 2nd Walker’s office back in June. He has attempt to eliminate the Congress. The with Department staff to discuss Act 21. Act charged the Congress to develop recom- Governor’s office has assured me that 21 lengthens the rulemaking process from mendations that will reduce complexity, that is not the case. Governor Walker 12-18 months to a 2-3 year process. After increase opportunity, and eliminate regu- values the Congress and its role in Wis- much discussion, the Council voted to con- lations and policies that may be obstacles consin’s Natural Resource management. tinue to have a spring meeting every year. for hunters, anglers and trappers who It’s because of this role that the Governor However, only in odd-numbered years will want to get involved in these Wisconsin has charged the Congress to develop rec- there be actual rule change proposals. traditions. He has encouraged us to work ommendations to reduce complexity, with the NRB and DNR in developing In odd-numbered years, the Spring Hearings increase opportunity, and eliminate obsta- our recommendations for simplification will look like our traditional event. The De- cles for hunters, anglers and trappers. and reduced regulatory complexity. This partment will have proposed rule changes While we have challenges ahead, this is item has been added to every committee’s and Congress will have advisory questions. agenda for your discussion and sugges- However, in even-numbered years, the De- certainly nothing new to the Congress. In tions in your respective areas of interest. partment and the Congress will have only our 77-year history we have faced many You should also be thinking about this as advisory questions. After all advisory ques- challenges and our grass-roots public you go through resolutions to determine tions are discussed, the Congress will be input process has always prevailed. I whether the proposed change will make leading a town hall discussion. During the view this as an opportunity to improve things simpler or more complex; will town hall forum, we will gather input from our organization’s efficiency and effec- encourage participation or become a bar- our constituents on simplification of rules tiveness. I encourage you to do the same. rier; and if it is more complex, does the pertaining to hunting, fishing and trapping,

Page 2 CONSERVATION CHRONICLE 2012 Convention to be Held in Manitowoc

Mark your calendars. The 2012 WCC Con- hall forums at the spring meetings and see mittees including DNR liaisons vention is scheduled to be held in Manito- where we are at.” woc on May 10, 11, and 12, 2012. And this –discussion on the Governor’s charge for sim- “At the 2012 convention we will continue year’s convention will be one you won’t plification of regulations and elimination of to do many of the same things we have want to miss. barriers to participation done for years at conventions. We will “I have been hearing a lot of concern and invite dignitaries, such as the governor, –additional training for County Chairs and anxiety about some of the challenges the DNR secretary, and NRB chair to address new delegates Congress is facing, both internal and exter- the delegation,” said Larry Bonde, Vice- –training on Robert’s Rules of Order and the nal, so this year’s convention is an excellent Chair, “We will continue to review the WCC Code of Proceedures opportunity for the entire delegation to get results of the annual spring meetings, and together, discuss the challenges, and gener- there will definitely be paddle votes. How- –a presentation on Act 21 ate ideas for the future success of the Con- ever, in addition, the Executive Council “This year’s convention may well be one of gress,” said Rob Bohmann, Chair of the decided that it would be beneficial to have the most important and fruitful meetings of the Congress. “It’s the perfect time, with eve- some additional delegate training.” Congress,” said Lee Fahrney, Secretary. ryone physically together in the same room, Some of the ideas for the 2012 convention “There is work to be done, and we need to to engage delegates in the education and that have been discussed include: make sure the entire delegation is on the same decision making about these issues. We can page.” pool the feedback we receive from the town –having break-out sessions for study com- Delegate Profile: William “Bill” Howe, Crawford County

By Lee Fahrney Bill's father and grandfather toiled as the Morris. “There were some parks you Like a child at the altar of God, Bill Howe publishers of the couldn’t even fish in,” he said. Courier, a local was “baptized” on the waters of the Missis- Many of the same controversies paper serving the sippi River at the age of ten, rowing a small exist today, Bill says. He is con- various commu- clam boat as he tried to keep up with a lar- cerned about the legislature and its nities of Grant ger craft just ahead. “My boat was for over- involvement in conservation issues, and Crawford flow if they needed it,” he said laughing. which, according to him, are better counties. And at 88 years young, Bill is still drawn to left to the Congress and the DNR. the River – to float both main channel and He recalls going .“The problem goes all the way back backwaters, spin a yarn about its storied to Madison with to Gov. Lucey and Gov. Kohler who past or offer insight to present-day threats fellow conserva- wanted to do the same things,” he to its sustainability. He remembers when tionist Jack John- says." Let the public do the rules and the locks and dams were installed on the son to lobby the let the government administer the river in the late 30’s, and when the Missis- legislature and policies.” the Conservation sippi Refuge system was created. He also expresses reservations about Commission. “I “specialty groups” such as fish tour- Bill fought his way onto the Wisconsin knew where their nament promoters. He would like to Conservation Congress after he got into an office was back see tournament anglers use technol- argument with a guy over some changes to then and got to ogy to take a photo of the fish rather commercial fishing rules on the Missis- know most of the than haul them in to be put on a scale. The sippi. “I wanted to be on the Congress so I people there.” could get something done." After more challenge, he asserts, is to keep fish in their than 50 years as a delegate to the Congress Bill’s interest in conservation goes far be- original habitat. “Moving fish around and from Crawford County, Bill reigns as a yond the Mississippi, however. He recalls using live wells can spread disease,” he walking, talking legacy of conservation traveling to northern Wisconsin back in the warns. “Return the fish to the water where leadership. fifties to herd starving deer from over it’s caught.” browsed areas to other locations where they Bill currently serves on the Mississippi He remembers rubbing elbows with such might have a chance of survival. “We had River Committee and the Legislative Com- figures as Ernie Swift, then secretary of the people from the Conservation Commission, mittee. A Navy veteran of World War II, Conservation Commission, forerunner of Parks and Congress delegates all involved,” Bill worked in control towers, guiding the current Department of Natural Re- he relates. The operation was conducted near Navy and Army Air Corps planes in and sources. Swift would come out to the area Rhinelander and Eagle River as he recalls. out of various air strips, most of which no to hunt ducks with his family, Bill relates, “It didn’t work; they went right back again.” as did “Ding” Darling, a cartoonist for the longer exist, he says. Bill lives with his Des Moines Register and a wildlife artist He also remembers when the first Parks “sweetheart,” Donna, in Prairie du Chien. who sketched the first federal duck stamp. Committee was formed in the 50’s under Ed Combined, they have seven children.

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 Page 3 Land and Water Conservation Fund Vital to Northwoods

By Rick Olson, Sawyer County delegate working forest for continued logging. gress slashed the program during year-end budget negotiations, which left the program This commentary was originally published in These sorts of places protect our water with just a third of what it is supposed to the Ashland Daily Press. quality and the environment. They are get. Now the U.S. House of Representatives also critical to the state's economy be- is proposing even deeper cuts that would cause they preserve the working forests decimate the program. This harmful budget To live in the Great Wisconsin northwoods is that provide local jobs and make Wiscon- hasn't yet been enacted, but time is running to have beautiful lakes and rivers, and large, sin a premier destination for active out- out. pristine spaces open to the public. Conserving door recreation. In fact, the Outdoor In- the qualities that make this place so special is dustry Association has found that outdoor Gratefully, our Congressional delegation tremendously important for those of us who recreation contributes more than $9.7 bil- includes longstanding — and bipartisan — call it "home." That's why I recently traveled lion to Wisconsin's economy, supports champions of LWCF, like Senator Herb to Washington, D.C. to meet with our Wiscon- 129,000 jobs across the state, generates Kohl and Representatives Tom Petri and sin congressional delegation about the impor- $570 million in annual state tax revenue, Ron Kind. I'm also thrilled that my con- tance of protecting our forests, lakes, and rec- and produces $7.5 billion annually in re- gressman, Sean Duffy, recently stood up for reational lands in northern Wisconsin. tail sales and services — accounting for those of us who care about Wisconsin's By now, everyone recognizes that we must put nearly 4 percent of gross state product. natural heritage by joining his colleagues in the government's budget on a diet, and tough The U.S. Census reports that over 2.9 defending LWCF. With their strong support, decisions have to be made. But investing in million people hunt, fish or watch wildlife we can ensure the protection of cherished Wisconsin's economic recovery and our be- in Wisconsin each year, spending over places like Chippewa Flowage and keep our loved national forests, wildlife refuges, and $3.9 billion on wildlife-related recreation. Northwoods' beautiful appeal while support- ing our local and state economy. parks through a federal program that doesn't What makes LWCF such a bargain invest- come out of our tax dollars is a smart choice ment for Wisconsin is that it isn't financed While there's no doubt federal spending as Congress develops a budget for the next by our taxes! Instead, the fund gets a por- needs to be reduced, not all cuts are equal. fiscal year. tion of the fees collected from oil and gas Wiping out LWCF, as now proposed in the Since 1965, that program, called the Land and companies when they lease federally man- House, is wrong-headed and will squander Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), has pro- aged areas in our offshore waters. Every an opportunity to protect our state's treas- tected places like Chequamegon-Nicolet Na- year, $900 million of those fees is sup- ured places. For the sake of our environ- tional Forest, St. Croix National Scenic River- posed to be put into this fund to protect ment and economy, LWCF is the kind of way, the North Country National Scenic Trail, our federal, state, and local lands and wa- program that should be encouraged, not Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the ters. However, that seldom occurs. In- eliminated. stead, Congress uses most of this oil and Chippewa Flowage Forest. This year, LWCF The NRB voted unanimously at the August gas company money for other purposes, funds will help protect more than 18,000 acres Board meeting to support the purchase of a and LWCF is consistently shortchanged. in the Chippewa Flowage watershed, which Forest Legacy easement on over 10,000 will secure a world-class fishery and protect a Today, LWCF is in deep jeopardy. Con- acres of land near the Chippewa Flowage.

The Future of Wisconsin’s Whitetail Deer Population

By Robert Wilberscheid, Calumet County supposedly not alone in his view. A director dustry that accounts for $12.4 billion annu- delegate of a Southeastern DNR type agency stated ally. that he has been telling hunters for years that Bob periodically writes an op-ed column for McKean lists eight “qualifying risks” that you “can’t kill enough does.” Now he feels it the Tri-County Record. threaten the present deer numbers. The may be time to end that mantra. maturation of American forests has a risk While the nation’s deer herd is currently in index of 8 (out of 10). A young hardwood If you believe Andrew McKean in Septem- excess of 20 million animals, the population forest is capable of producing 1000 pounds ber’s 2011 Outdoor Life, there could be a is poised to take a steep drop.--- “Somewhere of available food per acre, while a mature “Deer Depression” coming along in the next between a significant correction and a catas- forest can barely eek out 50 to 100 pounds. few years. Quoting Dr. Grant Woods, a trophic crash” according to Woods. widely respected wildlife biologist whose Private versus public habitat has become a land management interests take him around If these dire predictions come to pass, as major issue. Private land has been much the country, “The best case scenario I see is many as 50% of the whitetail hunting com- better managed for wildlife, while public that deer populations drop ten to twenty- munity could take a pass on purchasing a forests don’t see sufficient timber harvest to five percent over the next couple of years.” deer hunting license. While a drop in license promote new growth. sales would negatively impact wildlife agen- If you talk to hunters in northern Wisconsin, That might sound hyperbolic, but Woods is cies, deer hunters drive an outdoor gear in-

Page 4 CONSERVATION CHRONICLE they will uniformly confirm that view. ently prevalent in Wisconsin, is very much Leadership vacuum (risk index 4) sounds a alive in some states and suburbs. Whitetails bit weak to me. Whitetails Unlimited and Predators (risk index 7) are definitely on the are viewed as pests rather than potential tro- similar groups do a good job promoting increase, making some game managers phies. Nuisance deer are all over, but regu- deer, but with often sizeable populations wanting to make every hunter a coyote lated hunting is a better and cheaper solution available, sportsmen and women are more hunter. In Wisconsin, coyotes, while not than sharpshooters or birth control. prone to supporting groups that advocate tracked like most predators, are definitely other wildlife species. on the increase, along with wolves, black Inadequate monitoring (risk index 3) contin- bears and maybe bobcats. ues to be a concern for officials around the I don’t know if we need a national conser- country, not just Wisconsin. Many states rely vation organization to support whitetails and Nationwide, the current estimated number on internet reporting, citing ease of monitor- deer habitat. State and local groups, espe- of coyotes killed by government funded ing and lack of funding. cially in the present economy, would proba- predator control programs is 500,000. It is bly be more effective and efficient. thought that 75% of coyotes would have to Wisconsin is once again trying to get a better be removed annually to cause a decrease in handle on the deer population with it cur- While the predictions are dire, if some of the predator’s general population. rently implemented $2 million plan. the speculation comes to pass, the effects will not necessarily be nationwide. 2010 Baiting (risk index 3), while still popular in Unrealistic expectations (risk index 3) can be harvest numbers are quite diverse, with many states, including Wisconsin, can undo traced to “irrational exuberance” that some states like West Virginia and Missouri see- habitat work and can often concentrate deer game managers have trumpeted in the past. ing a decrease of 23% and 10% respec- causing health concerns. No matter how many deer there are on the tively, while states like Delaware and Ne- landscape, there are going to be seasons Habitat loss (risk index 9) is very visible to braska grew 14% and 11% respectively. when even above-average hunters are not hunters and non-hunters alike. Rural subdi- going to score. While we can never say never, it is ex- visions, even in our depressed economy, tremely unlikely that whitetails which are continue to grow. Corn and soybean pro- Perhaps hunters will have to start looking at resilient and adaptive will experience any duction also contributes to a reduced carry- deer hunting as a great recreational endeavor appreciable population declines unless a ing capacity. rather than a predictable opportunity to har- new dynamic is introduced. vest a whitetail. Intolerance (risk index 9), while not appar- Can You Identify Any of these Gentlemen?

The Conservation Congress requests your credit the presence of Roy Case or Harley Bonde at 920-693-8449 or Kari Lee- help to identify the five gentlemen seen in McKenzie. Zimmermann at 608-266-0580. this photo taking a break from an archery If you recognize any of the gentlemen in Thank you in advance for your assistance. hunt. the photo below, please contact Larry The verbal his- tory that accom- panied the photo was that it in- cluded Aldo Leopold, Roy Case, and Harley McKenzie. However, after contacting the Aldo Leopold Foundation for assistance, they have confirmed that Leopold doesn’t appear in the photo. Larry Bonde worked to date the photo based on the model of the vehicle, but was unable to confirm or dis-

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 Page 5 Hydropower proposed for the Upper Mississippi River Locks and Dams

By Marc Schultz, Mississippi River FERC at the state’s request. cilities would impact upstream and Committee Chair downstream passage of fish, passage of The hydrology of the UMR is complex flood flows, sitting of transmission lines, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission due to the size of the floodplain, the pools impacts to water quality, water level ma- (FERC) hydropower licenses were ap- created by the dams and the lengthy dikes nipulation for habitat purposes, recrea- plied for in early May by several firms with their dam and spillways. River fish tional use by the public, exotic species, for Upper Mississippi River (UMR) locks move long distances to spawn or to find sedimentation patterns below the dams and dams. Nine of the 26 federal locks seasonal habitat. Consequently, the cu- and the extent of public involvement on and dams built on the UMR in the 1930’s mulative effects of passage both up and FERC decisions. by the US Army Corps of Engineers as down stream through turbines must be authorized by the US Congress to provide established. The several spillways and The UMR is a one-of-a-kind resource. A for a commercial navigation channel are culverts in the long dikes at each dam are true gathering of waters, it is home to located on Wisconsin’s border with Iowa used to spread flow across the floodplain more than 140 species of fish, approxi- and Minnesota. In 1924 Congress also to keep downstream backwaters intact. mately 25 mussel species, waterfowl, authorized and created the Upper Missis- Concentration of flow to produce power, furbearers, raptors and many other spe- sippi River National Wildlife and Fish particularly in low flow conditions, cies of wildlife. Some are threatened or Refuge on The UMR from Nelson Wis- would seem to be in conflict with healthy endangered. It is a particularly important consin to Rock Island Illinois. The UMR backwaters. corridor for migrating birds including is an internationally important fish and waterfowl, songbirds and shorebirds. Below each lock and dam are fishing wildlife habitat and at the same time an Some of these migrations contain a sig- floats available to the public for a fee. internationally important commercial nificant portion of their world popula- The floats are located in unique quiet navigation route that supports economi- tions. Some examples are canvasback water opposite from the lock. Changing cally vital import and export trade. ducks, tundra swans and cerulean war- the flow conditions for hydropower po- blers just to name a few. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been tentially could elimi- invested by the federal government in nate the flow condi- maintaining and restoring fish and wild- tions that make fishing life habitat as well as operating and up- on the floats so good. dating the locks and dams and navigation The thousands of acres infrastructure. Wisconsin, local govern- of shallow water pools ments along the UMR and the public also behind each dam con- invest public and private funds seeking tain immense beds of the economic and environmental opportu- aquatic vegetation that nities that the UMR offers. are so important as a What is being proposed by the firms is to source of food for install low head run-of-the-river hydro- migrating waterfowl power technology in and near the locks and a home for fish and dams. Run-of-the-river would use the and aquatic life. day to day river flow at each lock and Storms in the summer dam. Flow in the UMR changes slowly and the natural fall but dramatically over time with seasons, die-off can create very precipitation, groundwater discharge and large mats of floating runoff. Low flows are below 10,000 cu- vegetation that buildup bic feet per second (cfs) and high flows behind the dams. Last are well above 100,000 cfs. summer and fall there was so much floating There is a big question for FERC, UMR vegetation moving in management agencies and the public. Are the river it impaired the proposed hydropower facilities in the navigation from July public interest and compatible with com- to October and mercial navigation as well as habitat for plugged water intakes fish and wildlife? The issues are many for coal fired power and definitive answers are few at this Lock and Dam 6 is located at Trempealeau, Wis. It was built in 1936 plants. time. The FERC process has time lines and upgraded in 1999. The dam is 900 feet long with five roller gates for the public and agencies to respond. Other significant ques- and 10 tainter gates. The lock is 110 feet long and 600 feet wide. This License applications made in May have a tions that need an- is one of several Upper Mississippi River lock and dam systems that 60-day public comment period but have swers are relating to would be used for generating hydroelectric power. been extended an additional 60-days by how the proposed fa-

Page 6 CONSERVATION CHRONICLE Understanding the WCC Code of Procedures

By Larry Bonde, Vice Chair how each county votes. In a roll call vote, record?” the Congress Secretary will call out each Most people who attend the Wisconsin Con- However, if new information is presented county one by one and record a yes or no servation Congress Annual Convention will that was not available at the time of the vote with that record becoming part of the leave the meeting with a memory of watch- Spring Hearing vote, then a delegation can congress minutes. ing the voting procedure of the delegation. change the county vote. If the delegates For a first year attendee, the paddle votes The Congress Code of Procedure states collectively feel that, had the public known and roll call votes are always noteworthy. “each delegate has an obligation to repre- the new information at the time of the sent the views, perspective, opinions, di- Spring Hearing vote, that information may Most votes are handled with a simple voice rections and wishes of the individuals and have changed the outcome of the vote, they vote. That is where the Chair will ask who stakeholders they represent on all natural may change their county’s vote. Another is in favor and who is apposed and make the resources issues within their county and justification could be if the county vote was decision on who had the majority on the represent their opinions at district meet- extremely close and conflicts with earlier volume of the delegation for each position. ings.” This includes the vote you make for votes on the same topic. When a county The paddle vote is used when requested by your county at the statewide convention. delegation does vote against their county a delegate because he or she may dispute Delegates have often asked the question, vote, they may also be required by either the decision of the chair and wants a count “Why do we need to gather if we are re- the Executive Council or Executive Com- of counties voting for each position. A roll quired to vote the same as the county did at mittee to submit a call vote can also be requested when a vote the spring hearing, since that is already on written explanation Continued on page 10 is close or if a delegate wants a record of

Seeking First-Time Hunters, Mentors to Continue Wisconsin’s Hunting Heritage

Take people hunting, they can eat for a book. You may also contact the groups time hunters. day. Teach people to hunt, and they can eat below who have made the commitment to Protecting our natural resources and outdoor for a lifetime. help others mentor first-time hunters. heritage depends upon our vigilance and Today, more than ever, we need to mentor Protecting our natural resources and out- active stewardship. It is our responsibility to our next generation of hunters. These are the door heritage depends upon our vigilance mentor the next generation of hunters and people who will stimulate Wisconsin tour- and active stewardship. It is our responsi- outdoor enthusiasts, to inspire people to be ism, be our next generation of hunting club bility to mentor the next generation of committed to healthy, active lifestyles and members and protect our natural resources. hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, to in- to preserving our outdoors for generations Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin (HNW) has spire people to be committed to healthy, to come. partnered with four outdoor groups with the active lifestyles and to preserving our With your help, we can teach others to eat goal of increasing the numbers of mentors, outdoors for generations to come. for a lifetime. first-time hunters, mentored hunts and Learn With your help, we can teach others to to Hunt events. eat for a lifetime. Contact information: A Learn to Hunt event is an educational op- under the guidance of qualified hunting portunity designed to help novice hunters of mentors. The events are sponsored by Becoming an Outdoors Woman all ages have a high quality, safe and reward- local conservation clubs and organiza- Peggy Farrell ing hunting experience under the guidance of tions under the supervision of the Wis- 715-346-4681 qualified hunting mentors. The events are consin DNR. Participants receive both [email protected] sponsored by local conservation clubs and classroom and field instruction prior to organizations under the supervision of the the hunting experience. Then, first-time Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Wisconsin DNR. Participants receive both hunters are paired up one-on-one with Commission classroom and field instruction prior to the qualified mentors to provide the highest Heather Naigus, C.O. hunting experience. Then, first-time hunters level of instruction and safety. 906-458-3778 are paired up one-on-one with qualified men- Four outdoor groups have committed to [email protected] tors to provide the highest level of instruction actively seek mentors to guide children and safety. and other first-time hunters on their ad- Wisconsin Bowhunters Association Four outdoor groups have committed to ac- venturous days. These four groups need Dan Schroeder tively seek mentors to guide children and your assistance as mentors, please contact 608-235-4619 - other first-time hunters on their adventurous them to learn more. [email protected] days. These four groups need your assistance To learn about Learn to Hunt events in as mentors, please contact them to learn your area, visit huntersnetwork.org or Wisconsin Waterfowl Association more. check Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin Don Kirby To learn about Learn to Hunt events in your out on Facebook. You may also contact 262-224-4949 area, visit huntersnetwork.org or check the groups below who have made the [email protected] Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin out on Face- commitment to help others mentor first-

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 Page 7 2011 Convention Recap

Chair Bohmann’s report to the Natural their support or oppo- Resources Board on the 2011 convention. sition to each of the questions that ap-

peared as Department Chair Clausen, Secretary Stepp, and mem- rule change proposals. bers of the Board. I want to thank you for At the 2011 Spring this opportunity to present the results of the Hearings, the public WCC annual convention. I’d also like to voted on eighty-five congratulate the newly appointed and con- rule proposals and advisory questions. firmed Board members. I too am new to Delegates vote with their iconic county paddles at the 2011 annual conven- my position, and I look forward to working Fisheries Manage- tion in Wausau. closely with all of you in the coming year ment presented 27 to advance the management of Wisconsin’s vance question 28 (allowing archery deer questions at this year’s hearings: four with natural resources. I am Rob Bohmann, hunting during the traditional November statewide impacts, 21 local proposals, and newly elected Chair of the Conservation firearm season). But at the Executive two advisory questions. On May 13, 2011 Congress. Council meeting on May 24, 2011, the the Congress voted to support the Depart- Council voted to support the advance- ment’s recommendation to advance 23 In accordance with our purpose and mis- ment of question 28 since the county proposals that received support at the April sion I would like to take this opportunity to delegates did not vote the way their 2010 Spring Hearings, and also endorsed review the business that was conducted by counties voted and no new information the recommendation to not advance ques- the congress at our annual meeting. The was given. Considering this, the state- tions 4 and 11. Question 4 dealt with the Wisconsin Conservation Congress con- wide vote of the public to support the walleye size limit in 19 southern counties, vened for its 77th annual convention on advancement of question 28 is the posi- and while it passed statewide, the support May 12, 13, and 14, 2011 in Wausau. Our tion of the Congress. statewide delegation elected Executive was moderate in those counties that would Councilors and the Executive Committee in be affected. Additionally, question 25 (re- WCC Advisory Questions addition to voting on each of the proposed establishing a closed area for setline fishing There were 39 Congress advisory pro- DNR rule changes, and each of the pro- for catfish in the Winnebago system) was posals presented for public comment at posed congress advisory questions from the approved statewide, but did not have local this year’s Spring Hearings. Thirty-five 2011 spring hearings questionnaire. support. The Congress approved the De- of these proposals were approved by the partment’s recommendation to advance statewide votes, and 34 were recom- Elections question 1 with amendments. However, at mended for advancement to the Depart- the Executive Council meeting on May 24, As you’re aware, we have had some ment and Natural Resources Board for 2011, the Council voted not to changes in the leadership of consideration. Four proposals were not support the amendment that the Conservation Congress. supported by the public vote, and conse- included circle hooks. The The new Executive Commit- quently, these four proposals were not Congress continues to support tee consists of Larry Bonde recommended for further consideration the eight-inch minnow (Manitowoc County, Vice- by the Department, Legislature or the amendment. Chair), Lee Fahrney (Iowa Board. The four that were not supported County, Secretary) and me This year the Bureau of Wild- statewide were questions 48 (legalization (Rob Bohmann, Racine life Management presented 13 of crossbows statewide), 55 (shortening County, Chair). I would like proposed rule changes for of the beaver trapping season), 57 (night to thank each of the council- public consideration and hunting of raccoons during the 9-day gun ors from 2010-11 that will asked an additional four advi- deer season) and 58 (bear hunting with not be returning this year sory questions. At our con- dogs statewide). The fifth question that (specifically Ed Harvey who vention, the Wildlife Program the Congress is not advancing is number stepped down as Chair of the recommended advancing all 56 relating to the initiation of a study to Congress and also stepped but two of those proposals for define the effects of dog training on nest- down from the Executive Governor Scott Walker ad- dressed the delegation at the NRB consideration. The ing birds. This question passed statewide Council) for their dedication 2011 convention and talked with WCC supports the Depart- by a small margin (95 votes), but failed and hard work and also con- delegates during the break. ment’s decision to not ad- by county vote (30 counties supporting, gratulate and welcome those vance questions 39 and 40 41 counties rejecting, and 1 tie). that have been elected and re-elected. relating to prohibiting the discharge of fire- Awards DNR Rule Change Proposals arms on Department lands in Pierce and St. Croix counties. The WCC did not support This year the Congress recognized a The delegation reviewed and registered the Department’s recommendation to ad- number of DNR employees for their

Page 8 CONSERVATION CHRONICLE the cold water fisheries of our state. Science Teacher, who tirelessly engages Russ Fell, Barron County, was recog- her students in conservation efforts from nized as our law enforcement officer of raising purple loosestrife eating beetles to the year for his outstanding law enforce- assisting in goose banding. ment work and community outreach In conclusion, on behalf of the Conserva- efforts. We also honored our Congress tion Congress, I would like to thank Chair delegate of the year, Mike Riggle, Tay- Clausen for your attendance and presenta- lor County, for his contributions over the tion to the delegation. Your involvement past year and the high standard of ser- and attendance is a testament to your com- vice which he has set through his out- mitment to the role of the Congress as an standing leadership within the Wiscon- advisory body to the Natural Resources sin Conservation Congress, and his ad- Board. vancement of conservation through his work in wildlife health and deer re- search. We acknowledged the dedica- tion of our delegates by handing out our years of service certificate and pins to LE Officer of the Year, Russ Fell receives his those delegates who have served the award from 2010 Chair Ed Harvey. congress for 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35+ years. outstanding service. Tom Meier, Wildlife The Outstanding Local Conservation Management, received an award for his Club was the Rusk County Wildlife Res- dedication to wildlife habitat management toration Association and recognized for and efforts to enhance the educational and outstanding achievement by local con- recreational opportunities at the Mead servation club was the Stanley Sports- Wildlife Area. Retired trout biologist, man’s Club. The 2010 Educator of the Larry Claggett, received our fisheries Taylor County delegate Mike Riggle was honored Year is Christine Jumbeck, Cochrane award for his contributions to improving for his dedication and contributions to the Con- Fountain City High School's Agri- gress and wildlife health.

Legislative Happenings and Congress Positions

There has been a lot of activity at the capitol lands, create a free winter fishing weekend, such legislation to the NRB at their March these days and many of the bills being pro- and allow 12 year olds to spear sturgeon. Board meeting, prior to the introduction of posed have an impact, either directly or these bills. indirectly, on Wisconsin’s natural resources. AB 311 was introduced October 5 and given Here is brief summary of a few of the bills, a hearing October 11. The Executive Com- AB 176/ SB 113—Relating to minimum their status, and the Congress’ position. mittee met via conference call on Monday, harvesting requirements for commercial October 10 and voted unanimously to support fishing in the Great Lakes. These bills AB158—Relating to non-resident voting the efforts of the legislation. Larry Bonde prohibit the minimum harvesting require- at Conservation Congress Spring Hear- testified in support of the bill at the Assembly ments for licensing of commercial fishers. ings. This bill would invalidate the results Natural Resources Committee hearing. of any county’s spring hearing vote that Both bills were referred to their respective allowed a non-resident to vote on the Con- AB 202/ SB 135—Bear permit for Natural Resources Committees, however, a gress’ advisory questions. Wounded Warrior program. These bills hearing has only been held in the Assem- would require the department to issue a Class bly Natural Resources Committee. AB 158 was given a hearing in the Assem- A bear permit for use by the Wounded Warri- bly Natural Resources Committee on Sep- ors Program if the organization requests one. The Great Lakes Study Committee of the tember 13, where Lee Fahrney testified in Congress has taken a position in opposition opposition on behalf on the Congress. This These bills have been referred to their respec- to these bills. bill has come up before and the Congress tive Natural Resources Committees, but have has a long standing position in opposition. not yet been scheduled for hearing. Specific bill language can be found online The WCC Bear Committee and the Executive at legis.wisconsin.gov and citizens can get AB 311—Relating to Wisconsin’s sport- Council voted to support legislation that email updates when new ing heritage. This bill would create a would allow a permit for the Wounded War- bills are introduced. Sporting Recruitment and Retention Coun- riors Program NEW cil, provide free first-time licenses, reward and presented Read the Congress’ complete testimony online mentors, ensure access to Stewardship their support for at dnr.wi.gov/org/nrboard/congress/Positions/

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 Page 9 Copper Bullet Demonstration

By Ralph Fritsch, Oconto County delegate Going into this workshop, I told myself to palm of my hand the size of a quarter and a take the middle-of-the-road approach to In August I attended a workshop at the Wa- 1/8 of an inch high. A surprisingly high this workshop. I would collect all informa- terloo Gun Club. This workshop was put on amount of fragments, I thought. tion, then make my conclusions at days by the Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Re- end. Next I fired the copper headed bullet this sources. The workshop was presented Carl also penetrated five jugs. The barrel was Batha, retired DNR Wildlife Biologist, and After the classroom session we proceeded flushed and filtered same as with the lead Phil Lehman, retired DNR Wildlife Techni- out to the shooting range. At this time, bullet. The only fragments collected were cian. The main purpose of the day was to Carl & Phil encouraged the onsite shooting two pieces of the plastic tip on the head of show participants the properties of different of both copper and lead bullets by the per- the copper bullet. The copper bullet re- types of bullets. The workshop was well sons attending the workshop. I partici- mained in good shape after being retrieved. attended by representatives of the Conserva- pated with my 30.06, 180 grain bullet, my tion Congress, Wisconsin Pro-Gun Move- hunting bullet of choice for some time For me, seeing this demonstration was truly ment, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and now. believing. Lead fragmentation from a bul- DNR personal. let does penetrate and disperse throughout Their shooting demonstration was devel- an object. The morning began with an inside class- oped and built to show bullet penetration room program to explain the days activities and collect fragments left after shooting. Now, what actual health problems could we and review the basics of lead bullets and This was done by the use of a 50 gallon incur from using lead over copper? Your copper bullets. For some time, the DNR plastic barrel laid on its side and six, one- answers to this will come from the eleva- has been concerned about the effects of lead gallon jugs filled water placed behind each tion of dispersed lead inside a deer or other fragments on wildlife and fatalities as re- other in a row, inside the barrel. Next, animal harvested using lead. Harvested sults of animals ingesting lead from lead firing into the row of jugs, water falls to game shared with family members, espe- shot. This issue was partially addressed the bottom of the barrel along with bullet cially youth, must be carefully considered. when lead shot was prohibited for use in fragments. The barrel is then flushed and I will be purchasing a box of copper bullets waterfowl hunting. To date, the DNR has the water filtered, collecting any frag- for deer hunting this season. If the chance seen a marked improvement in lead toxicity ments. comes your way, I hope you attend this in waterfowl populations, but there contin- My bullet penetrated five of the six jugs. demonstration and bring a friend. Draw ues to be some concern over lead levels in The lead bullet mushroomed nicely, but your own conclusions. Decide for yourself non-target species and lead fragmentation in the collection of fragmented lead filled the if you warrant a change in your lead usage. game species. Sign-Up for Email Updates

You can sign up to get updates on WCC with a new meeting date or agenda, or you happenings as well as DNR information can get an update when meeting minutes are using the Gov-delivery system. On the posted. It is a great way to stay informed many others. WCC or DNR web pages, just click on the about what is happening with the WCC. icon that says “subscribe to DNR up- The Gov-delivery system also offers wireless You can also get alerts on new information dates” (see above right) and enter your alerts for those individuals who wish to re- relating to specific DNR programs such as email address. You are then able to check ceive updates on their mobile device. Outdoor Reports, breaking news, fishing the boxes of the areas that you’d like to and hunting seasons and updates, outdoor If you have email, I hope you’ll take advan- receive updates on. recreation, health and safety alerts, gray tage of this fantastic new tool to keep your- For instance, you can get an email alert wolf depredation alerts, research updates, self informed about the WCC happenings and every time the WCC calendar is updated education and training information, and outdoor issues that are important to you.

Understanding the WCC Code of Procedures...continued from page 7

as why they changed the county vote and called at the statewide convention it is accurately representing them. that written explanation will then become really important that county delegations To better understand the full procedural part of the Congress record. understand the importance of that vote. duties of the Congress and County Delega- Further, if they choose to vote against their Too often there have been concerns raised tion it is always a good idea for delegates to county’s Spring Hearing vote, they should by persons outside the Congress that per- read and understand the entire Code of Pro- understand people are watching and the sonal agendas are the reason some counties cedure for the Congress. It can be found in delegation will be held accountable. It never vote different at the statewide convention your annual convention book or online at bodes well when the very public our dele- than the county’s Spring Hearing vote. the Congress web pages. gates represent, feel the Congress is not When these roll call and paddle votes are

Page 10 CONSERVATION CHRONICLE Delegates Afield 2011 Rick Fruit (Richland Co.) and Wyoming elk

Eugene Altwies (Kenosha Co.)

Brad Hasheider (Sauk Co.)

David Zielke Wil Netzer (La Crosse Co.) (Eau Claire Co.) Joe Weiss (Washburn Co.)

Craig Olson & granddaughter (St Croix Co.) Mike Rogers (Sauk Co.) & Andrew Bohmann (son of Rob Bohmann, Racine Co.)

Ken Richter (Washburn Co.)

John Cler (Richland Co.) and Florida gator

Meade Grim (Green Lake Co.) and son Cody (age 10)

Andrew Limmer & dog Austin (Milwaukee Co.)

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 Page 11 Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Madison, WI Permit No. 906

WISCONSIN CONSERVATION CONGRESS

101. S. Webster St. P.O. Box 7921 Madison, WI 53707-7921 Phone: 608-266-0580 Fax: 608-266-6983 E-mail: [email protected]

77 Years of Conservation WCC Executive Committee Rob Bohmann, Chair; Larry Bonde, Vice-Chair; Lee Fahrney, Secretary

Layout and Design Kari Lee-Zimmermann

Contributing Writers Lee Fahrney, Rob Bohmann, Marc Schultz, Ralph Fritsch, Rick Olson, Bob Wilberscheild, Kari Lee-Zimmermann, Larry Bonde

Editors Kari Lee-Zimmermann, Lee Fahrney, Rob Bohmann, Larry Bonde

Act 21 and the Annual Spring Meetings...continued from page 1 assist the Congress in navigating this change. ment will continue to participate. The 2012 Congress delegates in each county to make Secretary Stepp pledged the support of the spring meeting will consist of two parts: the a fervent and concerted effort to reach out to department and is committed to continuing to first will look much like the traditional sporting clubs and groups, environmental work closely with the Congress on the spring hearings, but all of the questions, groups, and other outdoor enthusiasts to changes that Act 21 will bring. including those from the department will be participate in the spring meeting and culti- advisory; and the second will be an open vate a robust discussion on issues of joint On September 2, the Executive Council met town hall forum for the Congress to gather interest. with staff from fisheries, wildlife, legal ser- input from their constituents. vices, law enforcement, and the secretary’s While change is often met with anxiety, Act office to discuss the options for implement- The town hall format is an opportunity for 21 gives the Congress a unique opportunity ing the new rule-making process. delegates to have an open discussion with to refocus some of the energy normally fo- citizens about issues and to gather their in- cused on administrative rules, to organiza- Early on, everyone was in agreement that put and ideas. Some of the topics that will tional system improvements and partnering there needed to be something held every year be important to cover are additional options and collaborating with other user groups and that the fish and wildlife portions of the for future even-year meetings, a possible with similar interests and objectives. rule hearing should be held together every alternate day or time for the spring meet- two years, not staggered every other year. This will admittedly not be an easy task, and ings, the youth conservation congress initia- There was great concern that staggering the will require all hands on deck. It cannot be tive, pending relevant legislation, recruit- rule portion of the hearings with fisheries one accomplished by the Executive Council or ment and retention efforts, and the charge year and wildlife the next would lead to a the County Chairs alone; rather every single from the governor for simplification of significant decrease in attendance and a loss delegate of the Congress must play an active regulations and elimination of obstacles to of interest by the public. role in adapting to the changes that we are participation. The input that is received faced with. Change is necessary and inevi- It was decided that the Congress would hold from the town hall discussion will help the table for any organization to accomplish its a spring meeting in 2012, despite the fact that WCC leadership shape how future meetings mission and we need to work together to there would be no proposed rule changes in even-numbered years are designed. develop a path that will secure the future of forwarded by the department. Department Additional discussion at the Executive the Conservation Congress. staff from fisheries, wildlife and law enforce- Council meeting included the need for the