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MARYLAND DUCKS UNLIMITED NEWSLETTER
NEWS & INFORMATION FOR DUCKS UNLIMITED MEMBERS Fall 2005 The Waterfowl Festival If You Build It... and Ducks Unlimited Will They Come?? The Waterfowl Festival is proud of its steadfast and upland buffers, helping to improve the quality Jonas Davis between years and seasons. Waterfowl use of commitment to conservation. Not only is the Maryland has lost about 73% of its wetlands, these sites varied depending upon the season, of the water entering the Chesapeake Bay and devastating to waterfowl and other wetland event a world-class festival of the arts, but its with most use occurring during spring and fall providing improved habitat for waterfowl and dependent wildlife. Since the early 1980s, DU migration. Waterfowl food resources and cover proceeds are awarded each year to projects wildlife. Ducks Unlimited biologists work with has been at the forefront of wetland conservation advancing environmental education, conservation species such as seed producing plants, aquatic landowners on a continuing basis, helping to in the state but lacked specific quantitative invertebrates, bulrush, and cattail were found on and research. In the continuing partnership identify, restore and manage habitat restoration information about wildlife usage of restored sites. most sites. Water levels at some sites were between Ducks Unlimited and the Waterfowl projects thus fostering a land ethic that not only This has left many to wonder: Are waterfowl reduced to mudflat conditions to enhance the Festival, DU was recognized with the other yields an abundance of waterfowl, but a healthier routinely using these sites to meet critical production of moist-soil plants. At other sites, Waterfowl Festival 2005 Conservation Grants at a requirements? What happens to restored wetlands water was retained throughout so that aquatic luncheon on August 3rd. environment for other wildlife and for people as well. Grants totalled $100,000 from proceeds over time? To answer these questions, DU vegetation and invertebrates became abundant. Ducks Unlimited received a Conservation initiated a wetland-monitoring study to evaluate Grant for our Habitat Stewardship Program on derived from last year's Waterfowl Festival and are awarded to organizations committed to the response of waterfowl and other wildlife to Delmarva Peninsula in the amount of $21,500.00. restored wetlands. Ducks Unlimited has been a partner with the advancing environmental education, conservation In 2001, 10 recently restored wetlands, each Festival since the event's beginning. Ongoing and research. This year's Waterfowl Festival is less than 10 acres, were selected for a monitoring support for DU's Habitat Stewardship Program November 11-13. For more information, contact program. Four sites were selected from the promotes the restoration of Delmarva's wetlands the Festival at 410-822-4567. Eastern Shore of MD, four sites in southern MD, and two sites in western MD. The objective of this study was to determine plant and wildlife community responses in newly restored wetlands over time to determine if conservation goals are being met. Methods used included bird surveys, vegetative plot measurements, core sampling for aquatic invertebrates, and collecting water quality variables. Each site was visited twice each season to be able to compare
Wow, That’s a Busy Committee The Harford County Chapter of Ducks event, the October Bull and Oyster Roast. The Unlimited seeks volunteers to help us put on Harford events are geared to attract members our fund raising events. This group holds six of all interests. Obviously, this group needs separate events each year, keeping them very volunteers of all flavors, and welcomes any busy. Volunteers can work on all events, or one interested in giving a hand. These folks The Waterfowl Festival honored its 2005 grant recipients with a luncheon at the Tidewater Inn recently. Shown in the front pick one(s) that appeal to you. The chapter say they “work hard for the ducks”, but I know row, left to right, are Albert Pritchett, Waterfowl Festival Board president, Larry Albright from Chesapeake Wildlife Heritage, starts the year with Woodduck Box installation them to play pretty hard too, often golfing, Judy Price, Waterfowl Festival Executive Director, Al Gipe, member of the Festival's Appropriations Committee, and Vance and maintenance in February, followed by a shooting, hunting and fishing together. If you Strausburg, chairman of the Appropriations Committee. In the second row are Ellie Altman and Amy Steward, both from the Sporting Clays shoot in April, then hosts a would like to give us a hand, and have a bunch Adkins Arboretum, Chip Heaps of Ducks Unlimited, and Mark Scallion from Pickering Creek. In the back row, left to right, are Spring Ladies Event in May, and a Kid’s of fun du-ing it, please contact John Lora Bottinelli of the Ward Foundation, Jennifer Pollack from the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, Mario Gangemi Outdoor Day in June. If that’s not enough, a Silbernagel, chapter chairman, at representing Fair Hill Environmental Foundation, and Sharyn Harlow from Wildfowl Trust of North America. Other recipient July Golf outing is organized, followed by the [email protected] or (410) not pictured is Talbot County Public Schools. Other members of the Festival's appropriations committee not pictured are September Sponsor Dove Hunt and the main 877-3572. Schuyler Benson, Mac Brittingham, Doug Collison, and Bill Platt.
Chip Heaps Non-Profit Org. 136 Goucher Way U.S. Postage Churchville, MD 21028 PAID 6 2005 - 2006 Waterfowl Ducks Unlimited Inc. INSIDE2 State Chairman Notes Seasons 4 Turkey Harvest 14 New Goose Hunting Zones 5 Reconnect & recommit Major Donor Event 15 State Raffle Winner Postmaster: If undeliverable, do not return www.ducks.org White Hall Game Farm State Chairman’s Notes Guided Hunts • Unguided Ed Henry Hunts • Sporting Clays
I would just like to throw out a few paragraphs remember that if it were not for the conservation of a couple of the local goings on in Maryland efforts of organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, Owned and operated by: over the past few months and spread out some we would not be able to take our family, children thanks to the people that make these events and friends out for an enjoyable day of Randy Nelson happen. As your State Chairman, I am truly camaraderie, hunting and togetherness. Our blessed by being able to meet and greet so many continued conservation efforts make these terrific Ducks Unlimited members and attend moments with our loved ones possible. 1920 White Hall Road your terrific events. Being your State Chairman means a On July 9th, 2005 Mark and Terry great deal. I will attempt to attend as many of the White Hall, MD 21161 Robbins hosted a Committee Recognition Crab events throughout the State as possible. As you Feast. The Robbins Crab Feast was held at their know, my presence at every event is not possible, 410-343-3172 beautiful new home in Cambridge, MD but I hope to see each of you at no less than one overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Over 80 of your events during my term as State Chairman. Maryland Committee members attended the In return, please try and attend other Chapter’s www.whitehallgamefarm.com event. Mark and Terry had a feast of not only dinners to try and show your support. This makes crabs, but a regular Eastern Shore cookout on for a great evening for you and your friends. You hand with hot dogs, hamburgers and the works. don’t have to work through the dinner and event, On August 6th, 2005 the 2nd as it is not your Chapter hosting the dinner and Committee Recognition Event was held. This you are making new friends and possibly lifelong event was a Sporting Clay Shoot and Luncheon hunting partners. hosted and prepared by J&P Sporting Clays in In conclusion, try and recruit new Sudlersville, Maryland. J&P Sporting Clays is a members, new committee members and endeavor frequent supporter of the Maryland Ducks to have a second event in your Chapter. As you Unlimited. Over 35 Maryland Committee read this, I am packing my bags to fly off to members enjoyed this event. Alberta, yes Canada. I am traveling with Sean I want to thank all the Maryland Mann and other DU members who I hunt with Chapters that have resurrected themselves in their frequently. These are my friends; the lifelong areas, as well as all the new Chapters that are hunting partners. I guess the question would opening or preparing to open up. As I write this, be…Do You DU? hunting season has started and we have to
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- TBA - John Silbernagel, Millington, MD 410- MD 410-866-6200 957-1272 679-2257 9/25/05 - Meade, Sporting Clay Shoot - P.G. 10/1/05 (Tent.) - Sassafras River - Dinner- The 9/17/05 - Frederick Co. - Crab Feast - Elks Lodge Shooting Center - Maurice Kline, Glen Dale, MD Granary - N/A, Galena, MD, N/A - Louis Kaufman, Frederick, MD 301-424-9173 410-468-4387 10/3/05 - Queen Anne’s Co. - Sponsor Cocktail - Maryland Duck Dates 9/10/05 - Bay Hundred, Sponsor Dove 9/30/05 - Central Maryland, Dinner - Rosedale TBA, Dave Gough, Queenstown, MD 410-758- Date - County - Event - Location - Contact Hunt/Dinner - John & Diana Mautz Farm, Eddie Fire Hall - Steve Huettner, Rosedale, MD 410- 8722 Bridges, St. Michaels, MD 410-745-6423 302-2103 10/4/05 (Tent.) - Charles County - Crab Feast - 9/11/04 - Harford County - Sponsor Dove Shoot 9/10/05 - Central Maryland - Sponsor Shoot - 10/1/05 - Pocomoke River - Greenwing- Dick Marsh Hall, Traci Norris, Bryans Road, MD 301- Randy Nelson’s Farm - Jane Zimmer, White Hall, Hazel’s Farm - Dean Ennis, Salisbury, MD 410- continued on page 5
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 2 Spring 2005 Editor’s Notes Restoring Wetlands Andy Aughenbaugh For most people spring signals new beginnings, Eagle. Ask Billy Price about who to waterfowl Impacted by Mosquito but for hunters like us, fall marks new beginnings. hunt with and he will surely tell you Chesapeake New hunting territories to be explored, new Guide Service is top notch. Just check out their hunting friendships to be formed, the new shotgun photo on the trophy page. And don’t forget about Control Techniques or boat purchased over the summer sitting quietly contacting Scott Barmby of Black Duck Outfitters Spencer Waller waiting to be taken afield, all these things and for a bang up Resident Goose hunt. more mark fall as the season of new beginnings Fall is here and with it a new hunting season. Mosquito control grid-ditching techniques used for the hunter. Enjoy the time in the field. And don’t to forget to Maryland Ducks Unlimited has its own new since the 1930s have degraded salt marsh support your local chapter of MD DU by hydrology and habitat. DU and the MD DNR beginning this fall. Beginning with this issue of attending an event this fall. the sinkbox, we have hired a new printer and Wildlife and Heritage Division began work this designer. This change is driven by our intentions fall on a project to restore 400 acres of state-owned to produce a quality newsletter that is full of salt marsh habitat by stabilizing water levels and information covering recent Maryland DU events restoring hydrology to conditions found prior to and highlighting upcoming events. Along with the implementation of these techniques. In covering the events, we plan to include stories of addition to restoring hydrology and habitat, the interest like an once-in-a-lifetime hunting trip project will develop a monitoring program, which taken by DU members, legislative updates, and will include using satellite imagery to evaluate the informative stories to improve our hunting skills. success of the restoration activities. Be sure not to over look the advertisers the hard DU's Geographic Information System (GIS) working local chapters have assembled. With staff visited the restoration area to refine the advertisers continued and growing support, we preliminary project design and document the strive to grow this publication to something current marsh conditions. In August of 2004, DU's Maryland DU can be proud of producing. As the GIS team obtained the satellite imagery that will advertisers have shown their support for MD DU, be used as the project's baseline. These "before" we should support them. photographs will be used to evaluate the success of One such advertiser worth trying is Corrosion the project upon the completion of all restoration activity. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through X. Chip and I have been using this product for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The over a year now and I know Chip has commented DU and DNR in-kind contributions will be actual restoration work started in the spring of on how well it has performed on his Super Black combined with $100,000 in grant funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 2005 with a projected completion date of January Administration (NOAA) and the US 2006. RD Notes It goes without saying that DU Volunteers are the lifeblood of our great Conservation organization and without the countless hours they spend organizing our fundraising events and dollars they CRAB FEAST contribute we would not be able to accomplish the much needed habitat work we carry out. Their efforts allow us to spend 86 cents of every dollar we Hosted by raise back into the resource. We have always known the important role that volunteers played in DUCKS UNLIMITED DU’s effectiveness but have now made it an organizational priority to grow our Volunteer Frederick County Chapter numbers by 20% and retain and recognize this irreplaceable resource through the first of several new programs. For starters we are going to honor WHEN: Saturday September 17, 2005 our Volunteers with a Habitat Project in the US or Canada, recognize them in the DU magazine and Chip Heaps – RD’s Notes invite them to the project dedication. We are also going to recognize Committee Volunteers for the DOORS OPEN: 6:00pm – Dinner starts at 6:30pm For most of us the 3 R’s represent the basics of acres that they conserve based on the net/net dollars Live Auction begins at 8:00pm our elementary school education. That is the that their Chapter’s raise. foundations of reading, writing and arithmetic. We can never thank our Volunteers enough for Ducks Unlimited has taken advantage of our everything that they do but we are gong to do our artistic license and assigned new meaning to the old best to acknowledge their remarkable WHERE: Frederick Elks Lodge – 289 Willowdale Drive, adage. The 3 R’s now represent the Recruitment, accomplishments for “The Ducks”. Come join us Frederick, MD Retention and Recognition of the most important this fall at one of our Maryland DU events and component of Ducks Unlimited – our Volunteers! better yet contact Susan Wallace, our new The 3 R’s are the #1 priority of Ducks Unlimited Maryland State Volunteer Recruitment Chairman this year and will be the focus of our organization at 410-820-854, 443-521-0808 or E-mail - TICKET PRICES: $50 per person; $95 per Couple; $30 for the next several years. [email protected] to join the Team. Greenwing; $300 Sponsor; $335 Sponsor Couple; $500 for an 8 person Corporate Table; and $600 for a 10 person Corporate Table
DINNER INCLUDES: All-you-can-eat crabs, fried chicken, crab soup, wedge fries, fried clams, corn-on-the-cob, macaroni salad, cole slaw, and green beans. Draft beer and soda included.
CONTACT (PRIOR TO SEPTEMBER 6): Louis Kaufman – Phone: 240-276-0151; e-mail: [email protected] Leif Olsen – Phone: 301-898-0000; e-mail: [email protected]
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 3 Spring 2005 Outstanding Breeding Conditions Result in Maryland Record Turkey Harvest Brent Smith take one when he had a shot, because I was still OK, I’ll admit that I thought my hunting partner lying down and had almost no chance. He had the was being a bit greedy when he passed up a jake best opportunity, and I didn’t want him to let it I had coaxed into 35 yards on the 3rd day of the pass waiting on me. I sat up at the sound of his season. Not only had he never taken a spring blast, and managed to send the second tom turkey, but this was his first season of spring tumbling with a load of #5s. We were still hooting turkey hunting. It’s not like we were hunting a and hollering as the last of the 13 or so remaining booming turkey state like Alabama or Georgia. birds (mostly jakes) scrambled for the trees. The This was Maryland. We didn’t have many days to hunt ended with matching long beards sporting hunt, and here stood his bird, cautiously almost 11” beards and 1 3/8” spurs, but the real displaying for that hen that sounded so enticing. story was the promise of a great season next year. The jake stood looking for a couple minutes until Every turkey taken is a trophy, but longbeards, “The Boss” gobbled just down the valley. As fast or adult gobblers, are the true prize. They’re as he appeared, his head turned from glowing blue larger, generally more wary, and much wiser than and white, to red, and away he slipped, never to be the year old gobblers known as jakes. Longbeards heard from again. Unfortunately, the boss gobbler do the majority of the gobbling and breeding, and was never to be heard from again either, but that’s will fight keep that right, which is why jakes often turkey hunting: changing by the minute, and never don’t gobble or respond well to calls. Jakes can what you expected. We left the woods that be the dominant gobbler in an area, but if there are morning knowing we could have taken the year a few longbeards around, the jakes are generally old bird (and with me thinking my partner should put in their place. for turkeys. state. Add to this the recent increase in public have). Throughout the season, stories of success 2002 and 2003 were two of the worst nesting hunting land, and Maryland is quickly producing The following day started out as a big varied, but one thing remained the same. years on record for Maryland turkeys. Cold or more turkey hunting opportunities for its disappointment with a strong front pushing in a Everyone was seeing jakes. Not just one or two, overly wet springs spell disaster for nests and sportsmen. storm, and no gobbling in the area where the birds but sometimes dozens of them. Harvest data told newly hatched broods, as young turkeys often As this article is written, the Maryland DNR is were thick the day before. It was starting to look the same tale. 30% of the spring turkey harvests succumb to hypothermia in these conditions. A like the birds would get the better of us again, were 1-year-old gobblers. An abundance of jakes banner year in 2004 gave the population just what conducting its annual breeding surveys for spring when a gobble rang out. We managed to set the this year means there will be plenty of 2-year-old it needed, and a single year drove the state’s 2005. These surveys are provided to Wildlife and decoys in an opening just before another gobble adult gobblers around next year. More longbeards turkey population to record highs. Heritage Service field staff, Parks Service sounded. This one was too close for comfort, and means more competition for breeding, and more The state’s turkey population is probably one of Personnel, Natural Resource Police as well as sent us scrambling for a hide. My partner was set competition for breeding means the gobblers will the greatest success stories to come out of the landowners, hunters and citizens. If this spring’s up perfect where the birds couldn’t see him until respond much better to the call. Maryland DNR. Not long ago, turkey sightings weather is any indication of the success of it was too late, but I was forced to lay down The 2004 turkey breeding survey reported were scarce, and harvesting a bird outside of the Maryland’s turkey population, we should see behind a blow down as my only chance to hide. above average nesting productivity, with the far western reaches of the state was unheard of. another productive year, and another great turkey Seconds later some hens appeared in the open largest increases in the West and Coastal plains Turkeys were originally thought to require large season ahead. area with gobblers in tow. They had no intentions regions. Brood sizes were up, hens seen with expanses of forestland to survive, but research by Oddly enough, my season ended the same way of coming our way. I gave them some mouthy poults were up, and overall sightings were up as organizations like the National Wild Turkey cutting which drew the boss hen into the decoys much as 150% over previous years. Federation dispelled this rumor with hugely it started. I managed to score another double with and only a few feet away from me. She was mad Waterfowlers are well aware that 1 good successful restocking operations. Maryland a different friend and hunting partner. Again, as and looking for a fight! That was more than the nesting year can have dramatic effects on the began restocking their own flock mostly with we ran to collect our prizes, jakes scattered in all gobblers could stand, because the two strutting overall population, and on their hunting. But this birds from the western part of the state, and directions with the promise of another great year toms followed suit. I whispered for my partner to year’s turkey harvest shows that the same is true turkeys are now found within every county in the for 2006. Maryland DU Website The Maryland Ducks Unlimited web site is hosted in the community “In Your State” section of the DU-National site (www.ducks.org). You can go directly to the Maryland DU site at http://md.ducks.org . The site has all the updated information on events, raffles, and even merchandise available only via Maryland DU. Mark this site to your “favorites” as it’s updated often with the latest information, news, tide charts, sunrise-sunset tables, hunting season dates, photo gallery, links to local chapters, and more. Any comments on how we can improve the site can be directed to [email protected].
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 4 Spring 2005 Baltimore Reconnect & Recommit Major Donor Event On May 11, 2005, more than 220 Ducks Region. Recognized as the most significant Unlimited volunteers and supporters gathered at breeding waterfowl habitat in the world, this the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront to learn more region produces the majority of the waterfowl that about DU’s Chesapeake Bay CARE winter in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Both [Conservation Agriculture Resources of these regions are critical to the survival of Environment] Initiative. The evening’s program waterfowl that inhabit the Chesapeake Bay included presentations by president John Tomke, throughout the year. senior group manager of conservation programs Ducks Unlimited would like to thank event co- Dr. Alan Wentz and regional biologist Spencer chairmen Richard C. Riggs and Henry G. Hagan Waller. The enthusiasm generated that evening and all the Major Sponsors involved for their resulted in 16 new Life Sponsors, 3 Diamond Life generous commitments to this critical Initiative. Sponsors and 2 Sponsors in Perpetuity. Our newest Major Sponsors are: Henry G. Hagan The goal of the Chesapeake Bay CARE and Robert Lepczyk pledged Sponsor in Initiative is to enhance, restore and protect habitats critical to Chesapeake Bay waterfowl, Perpetuity; Edwin Hale, Bill Meredith and Rick other wetlands dependent species and people. White pledged Diamond Life Sponsor; and the Major Sponsor commitments toward Chesapeake following individuals pledged to Life Sponsor: Major Sponsors recognized at the event included: (back row, left to right) C. Edmund Connelly, Robert Lepczyk, Richard C. Bay CARE will benefit habitat programs in both Greg Barnhill, Mike Batza, William Boyd, C. Riggs, Dave Butler, Edward (Ned) Grassi, Edward Zimmer, William R. Miles, Andrew M. Obrecht, Howard Wolfe, Henry G. the Chesapeake and the Prairie Pothole Region. Edmund Connelly, Edward (Ned) Grassi, Wayne Hagan; (front row, left to right) Wayne C. Johnson, Roland Mackenzie, John McDonald and president John Tomke. The Chesapeake Bay is the nation’s largest Johnson, James King, Roland Mackenzie, John estuary, draining 64,000 square miles. The Bay’s McDonald, P. Anthony Meredith, William R. wetlands represent important wintering and Miles, Terry Randall, Mike Reid, George Rich, migration grounds for more than 35% of the Peter Van Dyke, and Howard Wolfe. waterfowl in the Atlantic Flyway such as black If you would like more information about the ducks, mallards, canvasbacks, and Canada geese. Chesapeake Bay CARE Initiative, please contact One of the most important areas for migratory Phil Poux, DU Director of Development, at 410- Chesapeake Bay waterfowl is the Prairie Pothole 224-6620 or [email protected]. Banquet on Capital Hill The Federal City Chapter of Ducks Unlimited recently hosted the 24th Annual Capitol Hill Banquet in Washington, D.C. DU's Chairman of the Board, John Tomke, joined together with the Federal City committee to welcome numerous Members of Congress at the event. "I really have to congratulate the Federal City chapter. The overwhelming success of this year's dinner is directly attributable to the Landowner Advocates committee's hard working volunteers.", said Tomke. The Federal City Committee was also honored to forfor thethe have Congressman Gil Gutknecht of Minnesota serve as an auctioneer. The sold-out event enabled DU to reach legislators and Administration officials with the conservation message. 2007 Farm Bill $$$ REWARD $$$ WATERFOWL HABITAT FUNDING WE NEED FARMERS INVOLVED IN CONSERVATION TO HELP TELL THEIR STORIES Ducks Unlimited is looking for farm voices for the Farm Bill. Funding for conservation in the Farm Bill will be reviewed in early 2006.
We would like some folks to come to Washington, DC and share with Congressmen your personal story of how Farm Bill programs like WRP and CRP have enhanced your family, farm, and community.
Tell Washington how important these conservation programs are to you, the land you live on, and the wildlife it supports.
If this sounds like you or even someone you know, fill out the contact information below, and leave it at your seat to be collected.
Can You Help Us Find Landowner Advocates for the 2007 Farm Bill? If So, Please Fill Out The Information Below:
Name: Last First
Address: Street Address City State Zip Code Back Row, L to R--- Dwight Hughes, Joe Rowan, Carling Dinkler, Bradford Swann, Neil Shader, Zack Donohew, Mike Veasey, Bob George, Rick White, Howard Perkins, Matt Schertz, Maryland State Chairman Ed Henry, Bart James, Brett Flowers, Mike Phone: ( ) Email: Berkholtz, Andy York, Josh Voelker, Mark Walpole, Kellis Moss, Bill Imbergamo, Vaughn Collins. Front row, L to R--- Jim Do you know a Member of Congress: KYes KNo Please return today or mail to: Walpole, Scott Sutherland, Danielle James, Lindsay Jones, DU Chairman of the Board John Tomke, Ashlie Houston, Dan & Ducks Unlimited Governmental Affairs Office Clayton Wrinn, Chip Heaps. 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue Suite 402 Washington, DC 20004 or fax to 202-347-1533
410-745-6423 11/5/05 - Calvert County, Dinner - Calvert 11/29/05 - National Capital - Dinner - Columbia 10/15/05 - Carroll County - Bull & Shrimp Roast County Fair Grounds, Charlie Reese, Prince Country Club, Kirk Jeffery, Chevy Chase, MD - Pleasant Valley Fire Hall, Bruce Kerr, Pleasant Frederick, MD 301-855-1165 301-571-1473 Valley, MD 410-259-1475 11/5/05 - Caroline County -Dinner- 11/05 - Worcester County - Dinner - TBA, Del 870-3700 10/15/05 - St. Mary’s County - Dinner - Federalsburg Fire Hall, Scott Christopher, Baker, Ocean City, MD 302-537-2171 10/6/05 (Tent.) - National Capital - Sponsor Hollywood Fire Hall, Tommy Deagle, Lexington Federalsburg, MD 410-754-7370 12/1/05 - Greater Baltimore - Dinner - The Cocktail Party - Columbia Country Club, Kirk Park, MD 301-994-1621 11/6/04 - Meade - Dinner/Bull Roast - Elks Grand Lodge, F.J. Stetson, Hunt Valley, MD 410- Jeffery, Chevy Chase, MD 301-841-1305 10/27/05 - Annapolis Sponsor - Phillip Lodge, Phillip Thompson, Severn, MD 410-987- 905-8890 10/6/05 (Tent.) - Herring Bay - Sponsor Cocktail Merrill Center, Kerwin Stokes, Annapolis, MD 2044 12/3/05 - Somerset County - Dinner - Elks - Chesapeake Yacht Club, Mimi Moore, Shady 410-268-6518 11/19/05 - Talbot County - Dinner - Elks Lodge, Lodge, Artie Tawes, Crisfield, MD 410-968-1398 Side, MD 443-871-4941 10/29/05 - Dorchester County - Dinner - Coard Benson, Easton, MD 410-763-8420 12/10/05 - Cecil County - Christmas Dinner - 10/9/05 - Harford County - Dinner - Richlin Minette Dick Hall, Terry Robbins, Cambridge, 11/19/05 - Wicomico County - Dinner - Hebron Singerly Fire Hall, Ted Maske, Elkton, MD 302- Ballroom, John Silbernagel, Edgewood, MD MD 410-228-8372 Fire Hall, Wade Alexander, Hebron, MD 410- 836-9602 410-679-2257 11/4/05 - Patapsco Valley - Dinner - Ten Oaks 726-3020 12/10/05 (Tent.) - Herring Bay - Dinner- Deale 10/15/05 - Bay Hundred - Dinner - Miles River Ballroom, Lynne Beacham, Clarksville, MD 410- 11/19/05 - Kent County - Dinner - Betterton Fire Elks, Mimi Moore, Deale, MD 443-871-4941 Yacht Club, Eddie Bridges, St. Michaels, MD 313-9450 Hall, Tom Crowe, Betterton, MD 410-348-2551 continued on page 15
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 5 Spring 2005 2005-2006 Proposed Join the - “Greater Baltimore Committee” We need your help for our annual dinner Waterfowl Seasons Thursday December 1st 2005 and Bag Limits Contact F.J. Stetson to find out how “Committee Members” DUCKS, COOTS, and MERGANSERS can win a free shotgun!
Season Dates: Oct. 8 - Oct. 15 [email protected] Nov. 12 - Nov. 25 Dec. 13 - Jan. 28
Black Duck Nov. 12 - Nov. 25 Dec. 13 - Jan. 28
Canvasback Dec. 26 - Jan. 28
Duck Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 6 ducks per day which may include no more than: 5 long- tailed ducks, 4 scoters, 4 mallards (max. 2 hen mallards), 2 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 scaup, 1 pintail, 1 hooded merganser, 1 fulvous tree duck, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck (during black duck season), and 1 canvasback (during canvasback season). No open season on harlequin ducks. The possession limit is twice the daily bag limit. In addition to the duck bag limit hunters may take 15 coots. SEA DUCKS (Scoters, Long-tailed Duck, and Eiders)
Season Dates and Oct. 1 - Jan. 28 5 (no more than 4 scoters) Daily Bag Limit in Sea Duck Zone ATLANTIC POPULATION (AP) CANADA GOOSE
Season Dates and Nov. 17 - Nov. 25 2 per day Daily Bag Limit Dec. 17 - Jan. 28 http://md.ducks.org . The site has all the updated AP Hunt Zone: Calvert, Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Harford, Kent, Queen Annes, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties; that portion of Baltimore County north of Route information on events, raffles, and even 138, Route 137, and Mount Carmel Road; that portion of Carroll County north of Route 88, east of merchandise available only via Maryland DU. Route 30 from the intersection of Route 30 and Route 88 to the intersection of Route 30 and Route 482, north of Route 482, north of Route 27 from the intersection of Route 27 and Route 482 to the intersection of Route 27 and Route 97, and east of Route 97 from the Intersection of Route 27 and Route 97 to the Pennsylvania line; that portion of Anne Arundel County east of Interstate 895, Interstate 97, and Route 3; that portion of Prince Georges County east of Routes 3 and 301, and that portion of Charles County east of Route 301 to the VA state line. RESIDENT POPULATION (RP) CANADA GOOSE
Season Dates and Nov. 15 - Nov. 25 5 per day Daily Bag Limit Dec. 8 - Feb. 15
RP Hunt Zone: Garrett, Allegany, Washington, Frederick, Howard, and Montgomery; that portion of Baltimore County south of Route 138, Route 137, and Mount Carmel Road; that portion of Anne Arundel County west of Interstate 895, Interstate 97 and Route 3; that portion of Prince George’s County west of Route 3 and Route 301, that portion of Charles County west of Route 301 to the Virginia State line; and that portion of Carroll County south of Route 88, west of Route 30 from the intersection of Route 30 and Route 88 to the intersection of Route 30 and Route 482, south of Route 482, south of Route 27 from the intersection of Route 27 and Route 482 to the intersection of Route 27 and Route 97, and west of Route 97 from the Intersection of Route 27 and Route 97 to the Pennsylvania line. ATLANTIC BRANT
Season Dates and Dec. 26 - Jan. 28 2 per day Daily Bag Limit
GREATER SNOW GEESE
Season Dates and Oct. 15 - Nov. 25 15 per day Daily Bag Limit Nov. 28 - Jan. 31 Feb. 1 – Feb. 27*
Note*: Season only open on Mon., Wed., Fri., and Sat. during Feb. 1- Feb. 27.
Posted August 2005
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 6 Spring 2005 Grace Bottitta Promoted Annapolis, MD—June 28, 2005 — Grace In her new role as Manager of E. Bottitta has been promoted to oversee Conservation Programs, she provides wetland and habitat conservation efforts in oversight on the implementation of DU’s the Mid Atlantic states. Housed out of their habitat restoration, enhancement and newly opened Mid Atlantic Field Office protection programs within the Chesapeake (MAFO), Bottitta was promoted to Manager and Delaware Bay watersheds. She will also of Conservation Programs for the Mid- work to promote DU’s Lands Protection Atlantic portion of the Ducks Unlimited’s Program for the Atlantic Rivers and (DU) Great Lakes/Atlantic Region. In 1990, Estuaries Land Protection Focus Area within she received her Bachelor’s degree from the states of Maryland, Virginia, West State University of NY at Oswego (biology Virginia, Pennsylvania and Delaware. Her major with a minor in marine science). In communication and networking skills will 1998, she began her master’s program in prove useful in expanding DU’s Watershed Ecosystems at Trent University in conservation programs through the Ontario, Canada where her research project development of new partnerships, granting for the Canadian Wildlife Service, was opportunities and government programs as located in the Canadian arctic. well as assisting with stewarding new and Bottitta has eleven years of experience as existing major donors. a wildlife and wetlands biologist; four of which have been with Ducks Unlimited. ! Prior to her former position as a Ducks ns Unlimited Regional Biologist for New tio England, she worked in Conservation ula Programs at National Headquarters in rat Memphis, TN. Cong
Compliments of Ferris, Baker Watts, Inc.
Team Funk
Edwin L. Funk III John Todd Pauliny
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Maryland Ducks Unlimited 7 Spring 2005 What Does Conservation mean to me? Greenwing’s essays environment there are a lot of things, like us, that time with him. We are a great team when it comes Kyle Rush Age 13 This was a question posed to boys and girls couldn’t survive if there wasn’t enough trees. If to hunting. I love goose hunting, deer hunting, So, to me conservation means many things. It who attended the Greenwing Youth Fun Day held we didn’t have hunters like me there would be and being in the outdoors. I have one goose call means conserving the wondrous aspects of the at the Baltimore County Fish and Game over population of animals, like deer. Also, if of my own that I practice every night so that I world. So that all may enjoy it in later years. It Association this past June. The children were there weren’t things like Ducks Unlimited there might be a girl Sean Mann. I think that would be asked to write a 100 word or less essay (without wouldn’t be events like we are having today awesome, but what I think conservation means is means saving what ought to be saved, mammals, the help of parents) about what conservation (Gereenwing Fun day) then ducks and marsh spending time with my dad in the outdoors. plant and the great outdoors, in and of itself. means to them. The winners of the contest grass could die off and ducks could be going Ian Hafner Age 11 Some people may try to destroy what the outdoors received a guided waterfowl hunt with world extinct or endangered. Conservation also means What conservation of Maryland means to me is holds sacred, the wondrous sound of rustling renown World Champion of Champions Caller teaching children and adults about Maryland to leave no trace wherever you go. Don’t litter! If leaves, and rushing rivers, the smell of falling Sean Mann during the upcoming waterfowl wetlands and wildlife. Finally if people know you don’t litter in the water it helps keep the lake leaves in an old growth forest, and the sight of season. Below are the winning essays: about Maryland wildlife there would be more clean, which also helps keep the ocean clean, cattails blowing in the wind. I strongly and firmly Eric Milkosovich Age 13 protection and people would be more aware. which then helps the ducks stay alive. The ducks What conservation means to Maryland. Shelby Zimmer Age 11 can eat the alien plants which can destroy the believe that all of humanity should act as Conservation means assisting the environment by To me conservation means as I grow I will still ecosystem. Or you could destroy the alien plants caretakers of the earth and not rulers of it. It is our planting trees and bay grass. Right now I am love the outdoors and hunting with my dad. My and dangerous alien animals saving the duty to conserve the great outdoors. planting bay grass today. Without the dad loves to take me hunting and I love to spend ecosystem. Good Luck on those Hunts! Get the Maryland DU Mute Swan Decision Brings License Plate for your A Healthier Chesapeake vehicle Bay You have seen them, and know that the owner application as they normally would ... your DU Annapolis, MD—June 24, 2005 — The recent the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to is a DU supporter. Show your colors by getting tags will carry the same expiration date as your court decision to allow the State of Maryland to move forward with their plans to protect the Bay them too. It’s easy, simply ask for an application regular tags. control mute swans is a major victory towards habitat in the Chesapeake. by (e)mailing your name and address to Ross Your support of our logo plate program means improving the Chesapeake Bay. Invasive species “We understand the concerns that some people Selby - License Plate Chairman, Maryland Ducks “More Bucks for the Ducks”. like the mute swan have long been a problem in have about reducing the mute swan population, Unlimited, 1679 Carlyle Dr., Crofton, MD this country. Mute swans, which were introduced but the long term effects to Bay life are too 21114 [email protected] , or by calling 410-721- to the Chesapeake Bay region for their ornamental 4953. Here’s the program: value, have had an increasingly disruptive effect damaging. For instance, there’s competition for You pay a one time fee of $60 which covers the on the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay. They are food and habitat between mute swans and our fee to MVA and also a small fee to Maryland DU. difficult to manage, damage their surrounding native tundra swan, which winter in the Once you get your tags, you renew your environment and often compete with native Chesapeake Bay,” states Grace Bottitta, Manager registration as you normally would, with no species for food and territory. Ducks Unlimited of Conservation Programs in Ducks Unlimited’s additional fees. If you are purchasing a new (DU) has been working with federal and state Mid Atlantic Field Office in Annapolis, MD. vehicle, just let your dealership complete your agencies in support of efforts to protect habitat in Bottitta goes on to say that mute swans have been the Bay. DU was active in Congress’ efforts to observed exhibiting aggression toward native amend the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) to nesting waterfowl, driving them from protected clarify that it was not intended to protect non- coves and feeding areas. Mute swans are native species, such as mute swans. Animal rights estimated to eat over 9,000,000 pounds of The Harford County chapter of Ducks Unlimited invites you to our groups subsequently filed a court challenge to prevent the law from being implemented. Ducks submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) each year. Unlimited joined together with Safari Club The loss of SAV, plus the physical damage to the International and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife beds is limiting the recovery of SAV, which Fall Bull and Oyster Roast Service in support of the law. The court has just provides food and habitat for a multitude of Bay ruled against the anti-hunting interests allowing organisms. at the Richlin Ballroom
Enjoy an evening of Fantastic Food, Raffles, and Live and Silent Auctions at the Richlin Ballroom, 1700 Vanbibber Road, Abingdon MD
Menu: Freshly shucked Oysters and Clams, Chef Carved Colorado Style Top Round Beef, Chef Carved Oven Glazed Ham, Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, Chips, Pretzels, Oyster Stew, Herb Baked Chicken, Baked Potato Bar with assorted toppings, Jumbo Hot Dogs with sauerkraut, Italian Sausage and peppers, Country Style Greenbeans, Tossed Garden Salad, Vegetable display, Sheet Cakes and Ice Cream Sundae bar.
Beer, wine sodas all evening. Cash bar for mixed drinks.
Date: Sunday, October 9, 2005, Location: Richlin Ballroom, Abingdon MD Cost: $50.00 per person
For Tickets buy on-line at http://md.ducks.org (events section) or call John Silbernagel at (410) 877-3572 or [email protected] or Scott Jasion at 410-229-1370 [email protected]
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 8 Spring 2005 1987 Sponsor Event These are current members – do you recognize them?
Maryland Ducks Unlimited Contact List
State Chairman Ed Henry Sassafras River Vacant Gen. Geo. Meade Maurice Klein 410-745-9500 [email protected] Cecil County Jay Bailey 410-268-4387 [email protected] District Chairman - Eastern Terry Lemper 302-521-2615 [email protected] Herring Bay Mimi Moore 302-292-1847 [email protected] Zone 3 Chairman David Handley (T-Bone) 443-871-4941 [email protected] District Chairman - Western Scott Jasion 410-745-9279 [email protected] Zone 7 Chairman Howard Perkins 410-229-1370 [email protected] Caroline County Scott Christopher 301-320-0425 [email protected] State Treasurer Ed Zimmer 800-922-3867 X112 [email protected] Federal City Dan Wrinn 410-866-6200 [email protected] Dorchester County Terry Robbins 202-464-4004 [email protected] State Secretary Jane Zimmer 410-228-9311 [email protected] National Capital Kirk Jeffery 410-866-6200 [email protected] Talbot County Coard Benson 310-841-1305 [email protected] State Major Gifts Chairman Vacant 410-763-8420 [email protected] Potomac River Stuart Sherman State Sponsor Chairmen Mark & Terry Robbins Bay Hundred Eddie Bridges 301-770-8664 [email protected] 410-228-8372 [email protected] 410-745-6423 [email protected] Zone 8 Chairman John Graf State Membership Committee Chairman Ron Zone 4 Chairman Al Myers 410-893-5913 [email protected] Jasion 410-893-1395 410-957-1851 [email protected] Central Maryland Steve Huettner [email protected] Pocomoke River David Peterson 410-302-2103 [email protected] State Greenwing Chairman “George Nitzell, III” 410-430-1420 [email protected] Harford County John Silbernagel 410-335-0200 [email protected] Somerset County Arthur Tawes 410-679-2257 [email protected] State Webmaster Vacant 410-968-1398 [email protected] R. Madison Mitchell Merrill Dougherty State License Plate Chairman Ross Selby Somerset County Douglas Reynolds 410-939-3333 [email protected] 410-721-4953 [email protected] 410-430-8926 Gunpowder John Littleton Newsletter Chairman Andy Augenbaugh Worcester County Vacant 410-288-4438 [email protected] 410-876-8772 [email protected] Wicomico County Wade Alexander Upper Bay Greenwing Jane Zimmer Newsletter Advertising Chairman Rick Dixon 410-726-3020 [email protected] 410-866-6200 [email protected] 410-745-0405 [email protected] Zone 5 Chairman Mike Myers Zone 9 Chairman Todd Harrison State Shoot Chairman Hugh Adkins 301-645-2415 [email protected] 301-790-2072 [email protected] 410-226-5945 [email protected] Calvert County Charles M. Reese Washington County Justin Anthony Zone 1 Chairman F.J. Stetson 410-535-6464 [email protected] 301-302-9736 [email protected] 410-252-1355 x 274 [email protected] Charles County Dickie Naber Allegany County Sam Lane Greater Baltimore Vacant 301-283-0228 [email protected] 301-722-3666 [email protected] Bobby Watson Mike Reesey Charles County Jimmy Smith Mountain Top Vacant 410-252-2229 [email protected] 410-984-7212 [email protected] Zone 10 Chairman John Treadway Chesapeake Chapter Frank Edwards St. Mary’s County Tommy Deagle 301-271-7697 [email protected] 410-557-9141 [email protected] 301-994-1621 Carroll County Bruce Kerr Zone 2 Chairman Tommy Marvel Piscataway Dan Wrinn 410-259-1475 [email protected] 410-648-5229 [email protected] 202-464-4004 [email protected] Frederick County Louis Kaufman Kent County Tom Crow Zone 6 Chairman Phillip Thompson 301-424-9173 [email protected] 410-348-2551 [email protected] 410-987-2044 [email protected] Patapsco Valley Lynne Beacham Queen Anne’s County Dave Gough Annapolis Kerwin Stokes 410-313-9450 [email protected] 410-758-8722 [email protected] 410-268-6518 [email protected] MARYLAND SINKBOX Ducks Unlimited is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to conserving wetlands habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. DU was Advertising rates: incorporated by a group of farsighted conservationists on Jan. 29, 1937. Membership in the organization is $25 minimum, which includes a subscription to the national Ducks Unlimited magazine. As the Full page $1000 organization’s official publication for Maryland, Sinkbox has a circulation of 10,000. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Ducks Unlimited Inc. Similarities between the name Ducks Unlimited Inc. and those of advertisers are coincidental and do not indicate Half page $600 mutual affiliation unless clearly stated. Quarter page $325 Members who move, should send new address and current membership number to notional headquarters on POD Form 3578. Please direct Eight page $170 inquiries to State Chairman John Mercer Andy Aughenbaugh Editor • (410) 876-8772 • [email protected] Card size $50 Sinkbox is printed by The Daily Record, Baltimore, MD.
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 9 Spring 2005 MARYLANDLOCATIONS MARYLANDLOCATIONS WASHINGTON, D.C. AREA LOCATIONS Glen Burnie: 410.760.3933 Bel Air: 410.638.7404 Sterling: 703.433.2190 White Marsh: 410.933.0134 Hagerstown: 240.420.0140 Manassas: 703.257.4300 Hunt Valley: 410.584.9050 Waldorf: 301.885.1762 Fairfax: 703.803.0300 Columbia: 410.872.1100 Washingtonian: 301.947.0200
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 10 Spring 2005 Wetlands and Wildlife Want to contribute an article to the Sinkbox? Habitat: How Does Losing Call Andy Aughenbaugh at 443-829-6048 Them Affect You? by Kelli Alfano conversion or industrial and urban development. Many of the state’s remaining wetlands are Baltimore, MD—June 29, 2005 — Do seriously degraded and under continual threat. wetlands and wildlife habitat really make a Without the critical filtering capabilities of difference in the lives of people? Ducks Unlimited wetlands, the sediments and other waterborne (DU) says, “absolutely”, especially in our wallets toxins flow freely into rivers and lakes, degrading and quality of life. Knowing the value of these the quality of our water, which is expensive to crucial natural resources, Ducks Unlimited treat. “By preserving natural resources, we’re continues conservation efforts by restoring and helping to maintain our nation’s long term protecting wetlands and associated wildlife economic stability. The value of wetlands is habitat. One example of DU’s conservation work is in Cecil County. The Creedon project restored unquestionable. They are among the most 5 acres of habitat and grasslands, providing precious natural resources on earth, providing residents in Cecil County an enhanced quality of social and economic value, as well as recreational life by improving water quality, reducing the activities,” states Ducks Unlimited Regional potential for flooding, providing protection for a Biologist, Spencer Waller. variety of wildlife species and increasing Within Baltimore, Cecil, Harford, and Howard opportunities for outdoor recreation. Outdoor Counties, DU and its partners have restored, recreation alone is a more than $23 billion a year enhanced and protected 2,985 acres of wetlands economic activity. and associated uplands. These projects are now Maryland has lost nearly 75 percent of its home to populations of birds, mammals, reptiles, historical wetlands. An estimated 1.2 million amphibians, fish and invertebrates, many of which acres have been drained and filled for agricultural are threatened and endangered.
BlackDuck.BW.Ad.10x6.2 8/5/05 4:54 PM Page 1
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Maryland Ducks Unlimited 11 Spring 2005 Hunting Partner Brent Smith shear desire to please. During his training about, right? The field events, be it hunt tests or One of his more physically demanding As I sit here at my desk, staring blindly at my sessions, a stern “NO” affected him more field trials are all designed to simulate hunting retrieves had to be on a Giant Canada goose in computer, I can’t help but let my mind wander dramatically than if you hit him with a situations, so we chose to stay on one side, but not Manitoba. One particular bird from a flock sailed back on season’s past as I admire a picture of my sledgehammer. My disappointment in him was before obtaining a title or two, just to prove he behind us, what appeared to be just over a Chocolate Lab, Hunter posing ever so royally the worse beating he could ever get. His retrieves could do it. hundred yards. Hunter had a good mark on where with a day’s take of wood ducks. I swear, you can are done out of friendship, not intimidation. Looking back, there are quite a few “just to it fell, so I sent him after it, not knowing the true see the grin on his face, like you just told him to He enjoys the same things I do, much the same prove he could do its” in our past. There was the size of the bird, or the distance it had covered after say “cheese”. as any friend would, without the distractions that wing-tipped pheasant doing the 400 yard dash setting its wings. He caught up to the beast, just I’ve never seen a dog that likes their picture often accompany friends of the human type. He across the corn-field that everyone said would shy of 300 yards across the field on the next rise. taken quite as much as him. I’ve hunted with always gives you the first shot at incoming birds, easily outrun a retriever with that big of a head Watching him lumber back to our setup, with all many dogs, and most don’t want to stand still long and never has to leave the goose field early. If you start. Everyone was amazed to see that brown dot 18 pounds of goose hanging from his mouth made enough to snap a frame, but not Hunter. I think he want to leave, that’s okay with him, but he’s just working its way back to us was in fact dog, and him look like a Chihuahua carrying a sofa. He knows that by having his picture taken, he’s done as ready to stretch a morning hunt out all day. bird. had to stop and reset his grip 3 times on that bird. a good job, almost as a reward, even more He does grumble every so often when I miss, Or maybe the diving bluebills on the saltwater One of the most memorable retrieves had to be satisfying than the corner of a sandwich. and we sometimes argue on the whereabouts of rice impoundments that only got to make him a late season jump-shooting trip on an ice-filled As I look back upon the stack of pictures the goose that fell in the hedgerow, but he ends up look the fool once or twice before he realized that river in Pennsylvania. We had set out in search of centered around my brown, four-legged hunting seeing things my way, and we seldom lose birds. the water was only chest deep on him, so he could ducks, but found only a few geese within our partner, I realize that he’s been rewarded many, He doesn’t shoot well, yet always claims the birds pin an escaping bluebill to the bottom before he reach, and they would be extremely difficult to get many times over his 6 year hunting career. He has as his own. He isn’t always helpful with the slipped away. This did, however result in several to. I had the first attempt, which consisted of been the centerpiece of many an excursion, for decoys either. Instead of spending the early canine coughing fits in the blind. Evidently, crawling a couple hundred yards on hands and me, and is probably the biggest reason that I find morning hours bent in a backbreaking series of saltwater burns inside a dog’s nose just as much as knees, then flat on my stomach. I will spare you myself spending less and less time at home, or in ups and downs, he prefers to walk or swim around it does a human’s. the details of a failed attempt, and upon returning pursuit of big game, and more time in a duck or the spread, critiquing the layout, or the quality of I think some of my most memorable retrieves to my hunting partner, who was watching the goose blind every season. I often find myself in your decoys. Don’t get me started on picking up! would have to be from the goose field though. scene, and myself unravel from down stream, the peak of the whitetail rut, spending prime deer He’ll stay on shore in a warm blind while you Maybe it’s the size of these winged elephants, or three birds landed in a much more accessible hours side by side with my favorite hunting retrieve dozens of blocks with numb fingers, and the amount of time I spend in their pursuit, but location than the first flock. Worn out and still partner waiting for the chance at a duck or two. wet clothes, but that’s the only retrieving he’ll let Hunter has left many a hunting partner convinced breathing hard from the first try, I elected to sit in Granted, I always seem to keep venison in the you do. I’ve had him race hunting-partners across of his prowess. continued on page 13 freezer, but when the meat is stocked, my pursuits a corn stubble field to retrieve the last goose from change pace. a knot. Like a rookie hunter running down an The fact is, I’d rather hunt with my dog than opening day banded goose. just about any person, and the name of his game Psychologists would deem him “Obsessive- is birds. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy hunting Compulsive”. His enthusiasm for the sport is with a human companion more than without, but almost chronic. If he sees me preparing for a hunt if I were forced to pick one or the other, my choice the evening before, there will be no sleeping that would be canine. night. One look at a bag of duck decoys is enough This is a hard thing to explain to someone who to cause him to stir incessantly all night long. has never hunted with a great retriever, or even Every time my wife or I roll over, or snore too some who have. Some people have outstanding loudly, he interprets that as being time to go dogs with title after title in their name, but they hunting, and proceeds to wash a face, beat a tail never seem to fully grasp the joy added by their on the ground, or whatever announcement that he companion. I think that added something that a sees fit. I often submit, hours before the alarm dog brings to the hunt has something to do with goes off, and defeatedly awaiting my departure his reason behind hunting with you. time with my hunting buddy. Some people will tell you that a retriever does His skills are not perfect, but, like me, he holds so because that is what he was bred to do. “Its his own. I’d even venture to say that he’s a better instinctive.” I disagree. Some dogs perform “hunter” than most field trial dogs I’ve hunted because they know if they don’t, there’s going to with. They often have all the style and grace be trouble, often in the form of a heavy hand. needed to impress judges, but lack that sixth sense These heavy-handed dog owners are usually the that only a true hunting retriever has. Now, same people who never fully enjoy their dogs. Hunter can hold his own when being judged as They’re never satisfied. The lines are never well. In fact, I think he does well in field events straight enough, or the water entry wasn’t because he knows he has an audience, and just enthusiastic. In their pursuit for a great dog, they like the retriever that smiles for the camera, he fail to see that they had one in front of them, and gets to show off. Hunter and I have tried both they never let themselves enjoy it. sides of the proverbial retriever fence, and chose Hunter’s motivation has always been driven by the hunting side. After all, that’s what its all
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 12 Spring 2005 annoyed that Hunter ignored my comeback Hunting Partner whistles, but with a duck only 4 feet from his continued from page 12 nose, he had other intentions on his mind. The the stands and watch this one. The three birds next hundred yards began to concern me, not managed to make an easy stalk even easier by because of distance, but the temperature, and the swimming to a location about 50 yards from me, game showed no signs of ending soon. The next that left a large mound of dirt in between my hundred yards nearly terrified me, as both dog and hunting partner and the birds. By the time they duck passed the buoy that marked the shipping knew he was there, it was too late, giving him an channel. As if he could suddenly hear my easy triple on the climbing birds. It was an easy whistles that had fallen on deaf ears until now, he mark for Hunter from our vantage point, and I simply turned around and returned to the blind. watched in utter agony as he brought back not I was expecting a stiff and worn out return, but one, but three banded geese. This is the only time he looked more concerned with what his I have felt truly jealous in the woods. punishment might be than tired. He finished the There was one retrieve that I will always day without as much as a nap, and even assisted remember, not for its success, but the fear that it when we walked to get the boat, and rode out to brought me. We were duck hunting the finish the drake that nearly led him to his death. Chesapeake Bay late in December from a shore That retrieve made me realize that, even blind. The saltwater was frozen in most of the without his early demise, that I will almost areas, so the water was well below freezing, but certainly outlive my best friend. A dog’s time on the hunting was very hot. With all the backwater Earth is cruelly short. Two decades of time spent bays frozen, the ducks crowded into the open with a canine companion is unheard of, and 12 water by the thousands. We managed to nearly fill years of truly great hunting is a blessing. a five-person limit, when a bird came down Someday, I will be without the best hunting crippled, and was quickly shot at again. Thinking companion I have ever, and perhaps ever will have the bird was dispatched, I sent the dog, only to the pleasure of sharing the blind with. find out that the drake could swim just as well as Someday, I will miss him. Hunter could. Instead of diving in typical escape “Come on Hunter, Let’s get a bird.” mode, this drake mallard led Hunter farther and farther into the bay. After 100 yards, I was
The Calvert County Chapter of Come join us for the Ducks Unlimited Patapsco Valley Chapter’s Presents Bull and Shrimp Event PATUXENT RIVER CLASSIC CALLING CONTEST 04 November 2005 - 7:30 pm Sunday, October 9, 2005 at the Ten Oaks Ballroom, At the Clarksville, MD Calvert Marine Museum Solomons, Maryland Auctions • Raffles • Door Prizes The following contests will be held: Patuxent River Classic Junior Duck Patuxent River Classic Junior Goose For more information, please contact Patuxent River Classic Senior Duck Lynne Beacham Patuxent River Classic Senior Goose at 410-313-9450 or [email protected] For more information contact Dan Baker (home) 410-586-2378 or (cell) 410-610-3311
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 13 Spring 2005 New Hunting Zones for Atlantic Population Geese Visit Us Online at The Maryland Department of Natural Baltimore and Carroll Counties. During the Resources (DNR) has modified the hunt zone 2002-04 seasons, a total of 1,183 bands were boundary that separates the regular season recovered from AP geese were reported in Resident Population (RP) Canada Goose Hunt Maryland after October of 2004. Of those 1,183 www.ducks.org Area from the Atlantic Population (AP) Canada birds, 121 or 10% were taken in the resident goose Goose Hunt Zone. Evaluation of recent data has zone. This harvest number was deemed too high shown that portions of Northern Carroll and by the US Fish and Wildlife Service which has Baltimore Counties as a “hot spot” for migrant AP final say on waterfowl. Canada geese. This new data mandates a change. There are many reasons why the AP harvest in This Resident versus AP zones has been a hotly those areas has increased. Since 1997 banding of discussed topic among water fowlers, with some AP geese in Canada has increased, but more hunters claiming conspiracy theories of hunters importantly the longer season and higher bag limit from the eastern shore calling in their bands and attracted many hunters who live on the western saying they were killed on the western shore. shore, and also spawned a new group of guides Before the 2002 season, DNR was mandated to who specialized in resident birds. No longer did increase the harvest rates of resident geese, and hunters from Central Maryland have to cross the thus was created the RP geese zone with its long bridge to hunt geese. The new norm became why season and liberal bag limits. The idea of the RP drive an hour and half to the shore for 1 or 2 birds, zone and the liberal limits was to reduce nuisance when I can drive 30 minutes for 5 birds. and health problems that were being caused by In order to protect the AP goose population and these birds. prevent over harvest, those portions of Baltimore Prior to setting up the RP zone, DNR examined and Carroll County will be removed from the band harvest data from 1950-2001. All recoveries resident goose zone and included in the AP zone. were plotted via latitude and longitude and The new boundaries would remove in Carroll overlaid using GIS mapping. County the area east of MD 97 and MD 140, and In the proposed RP area 1,214 bands had been in Baltimore County north of MD 137 and MD recovered during that time period, which 13. By removing these areas from the resident accounted for only 2.4% of all recoveries in goose zone, it is hoped that the criteria of <10% Maryland after October 24. Thus, the RP zone AP harvest rates for a RP zone are met, and was created. should ensure that the recovery rate of AP geese RP geese are not birds that spend their entire meets the 1% direct recovery rate for adult AP life in Maryland, which is a common geese. misconception. RP geese are a genetically While I am sure there are many people sitting different from AP geese, and related to the giant back and saying, “I told you so”, the data did what Canadian goose of the mid-west. RP geese can it was suppose to. The originals zones were set up migrate from as far away as southern Canada and according to data from the last 50 years, which Maine. Just because a bird flies down the coast to was a good predictor. After 3 years of new data, Maryland, and has a band on it, does not mean it’s the new trend was discovered and biologists were an AP goose. able to act accordingly. Some might say perhaps Fast forward to July of 2005. Maryland DNR, is should have been changed after the first year, along with other states in the Atlantic Flyway but one year does not make a trend. Waterfowl are looked at the migratory goose band recovery data one of the most followed and studied species in for the past 3 hunting seasons (2002-2004). This North America, and with the advent of new is done regularly to examine data and look for any technologies, researchers are able to gather new trends, especially in regards to the boundaries pinpoint information to make the right decisions. between resident and Atlantic Population geese. While I’m sure they are going to be some Once the biologists plugged in the data, they disappointed hunters who have gotten used to saw a new trend emerge. According to the hunting in the liberal resident zone, as they say in information gathered, many AP geese were the research, the numbers don’t lie, and in the end spending their winters in Northern parts of it’s about protecting the resource.
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 14 Spring 2005 Willow Grove , Maurice Kline , Baltimore, MD 2004/05 410-468-4387 3/4/06 - Pocomoke River - Dinner - Pocomoke Elks, David Peterson, Pocomoke, MD 410-957- Maryland DU 2/4/06 - Queen Anne’s Co. - Dinner- American 6004 Legion, Dave Gough, Kent Island 410-758-8722 3/11/06 (Tent.) - Caroline County - Calling State Raffle 2/11/06 - Caroline County - Valentine’s Dinner - Contest - Federalsburg Fire Hall, Scott Caroline Country Club, Scott Christopher, Christopher, Federalsburg, MD 410-754-7370 Denton, MD 410-754-7370 3/18/06 (Tent.) - Frederick County - Dinner - Winner 2/11/06 - Charles County - Dinner- Jaycees Hall, Urbana Fire Hall, Louis Kaufman, Frederick, MD Dickie Naber, Waldorf, MD 301-283-0228 301-424-9173 Mr. Joe Squires of Darlington, MD won 2/18/06 (Tent.) - Central Maryland - Basket 3/19/06 (Tent.) - Calvert County - Sponsor - the Maryland DU State Raffle for 2004/05. Joe Bingo - American Legion Hall, John Graf, Perry Solomons Island Yacht Club, Charlie Reese, won a Yamaha Grizzly 660 donated courtesy of Hall, MD 410-893-5913 Solomons Island, MD 410-535-6464 Yamaha Motor and picked his ATV up at Pete’s Cycle Co. in Bel Air, MD. 2/23/06 (Tent.) - Annapolis - Dinner - TBA, 4/2/06 (Tent.) - Western Shore Sporting Clays The winning ticket was purchased at the Kerwin Stokes, Annapolis, MD 410-268-6518 Shoot - P. G. County Trap & Skeet, Scott Jasion, R. Madison Mitchell DU dinner on April 23, 2/24/06 - Potomac River - Dinner - Holiday Inn, Glenn Dale, MD 410-229-1370 2005. Pictured below receiving the ATV are Stuart Sherman, Gaithersburg, MD 301-770- 4/22/06 - R. Madison Mitchell - Bull & Shrimp Merrill Dougherty, R. Madison Mitchell Feast - The Bayou, Merrill Dougherty, Havre de Chairman, Joe Squires and Mike O’Shaughnessy 8664 from Pete’s Cycle Co. Congratulations Joe and 2/26/06 - Gunpowder - Dinner - Columbus Grace, MD 410-939-1720 don’t forget this year you too could win an Arctic Gardens, John Littleton, Perry Hall, MD 410- 4/28/06 (Tent.) - Chesapeake Chapter - Dinner - Cat ATV in the 2005/06 Bass Pro Shops/Tracker Joe Squires, winner of the Maryland Ducks Unlimited state 288-4438 Hillendale Country Club, Frankie Edwards, Marine/EZ Dumper Trailer State Raffle. raffle, with his new Yamaha Grizzly. 3/3/06 - George Meade - Sponsor - Snyder’s Phoenix, MD 410-557-9141
Please Join “The Greater Baltimore Chapter of Ducks Unlimited”
For Their Annual Dinner and Auction
Held at “Bonnie Blink’s” Grand Lodge in Hunt Valley, MD
Mark your calendars for
Thursday December 1st 2005 6pm to 11pm
To Reserve Tickets or a Corporate Table please Contact F.J. Stetson at [email protected] or (410)905-8890
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 15 Spring 2005 F.J Stetson with his Zebra taken on his African Safari this past Stuart Sherman, Potomac River Chapter Chairman and Steve Harford chapter make the most of a day Pheasant hunting in North Dakota. summer. Myers, Potomac River Chapter Sponsor Chair spending the day on the Potomac River.
MD DU Central Chapter’s John Juchs with his trophy rock fish Capt. Dan Baker III, St. Leonard, MD, wins the 2005 Brandon Lancaster, Roy Brintnall, Jay Lancaster, Scott Jasion, taken while fishing with Capt. Phil Gootee. World Swan Calling Contest in Washington, NC. Dan Ron Jasion, Mike Shannahan in Argentina last spring. is a committee member of the Calvert County Chapter of Ducks Unlimited"
MD DU Central Chapter’s Steve Huettner with his trophy rock Billy Price and St. Mary’s Chapter showing the rewards of fish taken while fishing with Capt. Phil Gootee. hunting with Chesapeake Guide Service.
Terry Robbins with a barracuda caught in the Key’s while Mark Robbins with a barracuda caught in the Key’s while filming for Doug Houston’s Outdoors. filming for Doug Houston’s Outdoors.
Maryland Ducks Unlimited 16 Spring 2005