N T E U R H E A D T U R C Alberta Hunter Education E A B T L IO A N

INSTRUCTORS' ASSOC. Instructors’ Association Spring 2012

The Voice of Conservation Education in Alberta Magazine

2012 W.I.S.E. Awards

AHEIA’s Mission is to Make Wildlife and Fish Part of the Value System of Every Albertan

Honouring Special Albertans 10th Annual W.I.S.E. Awards February 11, 2012

By Bob Gruszecki This year’s recipients are Pat Dunford of Edmon- of knowledge on all matters related to fish and ton, Mike Ewald of Grande Cache, Kelly Lewis of wildlife legislation ensures that his opinions are he 10thHonouring Anniversary Hanna, and LaurieSpecial Paetz of Calgary. Albertanswell thought out and spoken in a manner that Conservation Education is easily understood by anyone. Pat is the “Go W.I.S.E. Awards were held Public Service To” guy for any individual or organization looking on February 11, 2012 in Conservation Award: for an explanation of Alberta’s hunting or fishing Calgary. Approximately 350 laws. Pat is also a Past President of the Alberta people attended and helped Pat Dunford Game Warden Association and has contributed to make this one of the most Pat Dunford of Edmonton is the recipient of the over 50 articles to their magazine. successful award banquets Public Service Conservation Award, which rec- Bob Gruszecki ever! Four outstanding Al- ognizes achievements in public relations, con- Fish and Wildlife Officer President - A.H.E.I.A. bertans were recognized for servation ethics and community leadership by Chairman - WISE Foundation Conservation Award: their achievements in the federal, provincial or municipal employees who field of Conservation Edu- devote time to educate Albertans in the area of Mike Ewald cation. Our intent is to profile these individuals fish and wildlife resource use. Pat Dunford has Mike Ewald of Grande Cache is the recipient of to increase the level of public commitment to the been an exemplary employee of the Fish and the Fish and Wildlife Officer Conservation Award, conservation of wildlife and wild places and to Wildlife Division for over three decades. He is which recognizes achievements by a Fish and inspire others to reach the level of achievement well known to many Albertans through his in- Wildlife officer in public relations, conservation attained by these four individuals. volvement on committees such as the Multi- ethics and community leadership, and who de- Stringent criteria for these awards have been es- Stakeholder Committee chaired by Hunting for votes time to educate Albertans in the area of tablished and the bar is set high. Recipients of Tomorrow, the Alberta Game Management Ad- fish and wildlife resource use. Mike has been the W.I.S.E. Awards are recognized as a part of a visory Group, the Fishing Roundtable, and oth- a Fish and Wildlife Officer for 20 years, serving coalition that is committed to making wildlife and ers. Pat has been described as approachable, ➤ fish part of the value system of every Albertan. knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. His depth Continued

NTE U R H E A D T U R C Alberta Hunter Education E A B T L IO A N Feature Articles Our Regulars INSTRUCTORS' ASSOC. Instructors’ Association 3 n 10th Annual W.I.S.E. Awards 6 n President’s Message NOW AVAILABLE 9 n A.H.E.I.A. Offers Teachers’ Workshop 8 n Edmonton Report 13 n Trophy Bighorn Sheep Management 9 n Letter of Appreciation in Alberta 12 n Great Meals from the Harvest FREE SHIPPING n 14 NASP Donation 14 n Law of the Wild TO STORE s EVERY DAY 16 n Become Involved as a Mentor To purchase gift cards call 14 n Funny Caption Contest Winner 17 n Kate’s Story 15 n Look Who’s All Grown Up! 800.265.6245, online at cabelas.ca Magazine cabelas.ca/pickup or visit one of our stores. 780.628.9200 | cabelas.ca/retail 3 tional Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) W.I.S.E. Awards to J.C. Charyk School and his students have won recognition at events at both the provincial and national levels. Kelly is also heavily involved in Ducks Unlimited at the local and provincial lev- els. Kelly is currently the Provincial Chair of Ducks Unlimited for Alberta. Kelly is also an active Con- servation and Hunter Education Instructor and a Canadian Firearms Safety Program instructor. cont. Alva Bair Memorial Conservation Award: Laurie Paetz Laurie Paetz of Calgary is the recipient of the Alva Bair Memorial Conservation Award, which is presented to the volunteer that most exem- plifies that which Alva Bair represented during his life: true conservation and resource perpetu- ation. Laurie grew up in a hunting and fishing family, living in Saskatchewan and British Colum- bia. That tradition continued after her marriage until she moved to southern California. In 1999, she moved the children to Calgary and accepted Dave Paplawski, Kelly Lewis and Bob Gruszecki. a job as Show Manager with the Canadian Na- tional Sportsmen’s Shows (CNSS). It seemed Dave Paplawski (A.H.E.I.A. Vice President), Pat Dunford and Bob Gruszecki (A.H.E.I.A. President). like the perfect opportunity to be involved in the hunting and fishing industry and, since CNSS is a non-profit society, to give back to the commu- in Ponoka and Grande Cache. He is a regular Mike knows that the key to wildlife conservation his students. With support from the school ad- nity. In her eight years with CNSS, Laurie has visitor to schools in Grande Cache, teaching the is education. ministration, Kelly began teaching the Career increased the profile of non-profit organizations Conservation Education Program and, when the and Technical Studies Wildlife program, which such as the Alberta Hunter Education Instruc- opportunity presents itself, teaching students Volunteer Instructor included camp excursions to the Alberta Hunter tors’ Association (A.H.E.I.A.) and the Alberta Fish how to field dress a deer or do a post mortem Conservation Award: Education Instructors’ Association’s (A.H.E.I.A.) and Game Association. Under her guidance, the on a freshly killed cougar. Mike is a big promoter Kelly Lewis Alford Lake Camp and to the Calgary Firearms Sportsmen’s Show has become a family oriented of programs such as Bear Aware and Stream Centre. The school board realized that proper event with many activities for children, including Watch in Grande Cache. He was instrumental in Kelly Lewis of Hanna is the recipient of the Vol- instruction in firearms and recreational shooting archery and fishing. She formed a conservation raising over $80,000 from local resource based unteer Instructor Conservation Award, which were beneficial to the students and they sup- collaboration by adding other hunting and fish- companies for caribou conservation programs recognizes outstanding contributions in the field ported it at every turn. In 2008, Kelly was se- ing related organizations to the show. Laurie such as the Caribou Cowboy. Throughout his ca- of conservation education. Award recipients in lected by Alberta Education as a member of the continues to make adjustments to the shows in reer, Mike has focussed on the public education this category demonstrate a passion and com- committee which reviewed and rewrote the CTS Calgary and Edmonton to increase our exposure aspect of his job. Whether that means explaining mitment to deliver conservation education pro- Wildlife curriculum. In 2009, he made a presen- and to promote outdoor pursuits in general. She the value of wildlife to a landowner who has suf- grams to Albertans of all ages. Kelly Lewis is tation to the International Hunter Education As- is an outspoken proponent of hunting and fish- fered financial losses from wildlife, or educating the vice principal and a teacher at J.C. Charyk sociation on the importance of the CTS Wildlife ing and is always willing to push the envelope to children and adults on bear aware, hunter edu- School in Hanna, Alberta. For the past 20 years, curriculum and the important role that A.H.E.I.A. increase the public’s exposure to these tradition- cation, stream watch and caribou conservation, Kelly has been teaching outdoor education to plays in its delivery. Kelly has introduced the Na- al pursuits. In 2010, she helped organize the first ever provincial National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), which saw 163 students com- pete. In addition, she saw an opportunity to in- crease public participation in traditional archery. Over 5000 people tried their hand at archery, sparking an increase in the NASP program and archery in general. Because of Laurie’s efforts, over 60,000 people each year are exposed to hunting and fishing at the Edmonton and Cal- gary Boat and Sportsmen’s shows. The title of the bronze that each recipient re- ceived is simply ... “Who”. Once again, it’s time to go in search of Who. Who is next? The standard of excellence has been set. Our work begins as we search for the next set of heroes to profile. Until then, the task of emulating the work of this year’s recipients falls on each of us.

Dave Paplawski, Mike Ewald and Bob Gruszecki. Dave Paplawski, Laurie Paetz and Bob Gruszecki.

4 5 President’s Message Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association 911 Sylvester Crescent S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2W 0R8 Telelphone 403-252-8474 • Fax 403-252-3770 Toll Free 1-866-852-4342 Duty of care is a legal principle that is designed to protect vulnerable individuals from manipulation or harm.

By Bob Gruszecki With these principles in mind, and with the sin- assigned a VOAN number which entitles people, gular objective of serving the community in the delivering our programs under the auspices of ffective July 1st, 2010, best and most appropriate way possible, we have our policies, certain benefits. These benefits may almost 20 months ago, implemented a volunteer screening process. include a reduction or an elimination of the fee the Alberta Hunter Ed- to do the police records check. Depending upon Application ucation Instructors’ Associ- What is Screening? where the volunteer is located and the ability of ation implemented a policy It is a process that is designed to identify any the local police department to do the search, to become a to ensure that we are doing person — regardless whether paid or unpaid, your police check may very well be accompa- our level best to stay current staff or volunteer — who might harm children or nied by a nominal fee paid to the police agency Conservation Education Instructor &/or with the ever changing needs other vulnerable students. Screening lets people that provides your police check. Regardless of Bob Gruszecki of students, volunteers and that come to us for the services we offer know the processing fee, the check is a requirement, Volunteer to Assist in Program/Event Delivery President - A.H.E.I.A.“ staff to provide safe and re- that we care about the people we serve in our as well as the completion of the” instructor ap- sponsible learning environ- communities. Screening also allows us to ensure plication. At this time, we are doing this process ments. We are following the lead of other agencies that we correctly match the abilities of the volun- for every instructor/volunteer delivering our pro- and employers who have long since implemented teer/staff to the work that needs to be done. Our grams. It is the responsibility of each candidate a screening process of volunteers and staff before ability to effectively screen plays a vital role in to let us know if there are any changes to their Name: they can serve their clientele. While the majority of our ongoing mission of making wildlife and wild status during the period covered by their con- the volunteers have taken the action necessary to places part of the value system of every Alber- firmed check. Additionally a signed and com- Address: become compliant, there are still a few stragglers tan. Screening includes a police record check, pleted instructor application is a requirement. out there that haven’t read about this mandatory an interview with staff member(s), follow up with For your perusal, a copy of that application can requirement or still don’t understand it. been seen opposite this article. the references you provide, an orientation and Postal Code: In the past few years, the news has helped us training session, supervision and evaluation dur- all be aware, in a very public way, of indiscre- ing program delivery, and then follow up with our Further Information? tions and liberties taken by people in a position program participants. Screening is completely If you have questions or concerns about the proc- Telephone: Email Address: of trust with children in the care of certain agen- voluntary, but anyone wishing to volunteer with ess I have described, please don’t hesitate to cies. I am happy to report that our organization our organization must submit to the screening contact me directly at the Calgary office at 403- has had no such occurrences, and our nearly 48 process if they wish to continue to participate 252-8474 or electronically at Robert_gruszecki@ POL/PAL License #: POL/PAL Expiry Date: year history of program delivery remains totally in the achievement of our goals. I prefer to de- ezpost.com. Additionally, you can speak to Dave unblemished. We have successfully trained over scribe this process as we are “Screening people Paplawski, our Provincial Program Coordinator, at 1.2 million men, women and children of all ages, in, not screening people out.” There is no con- 403-252-8474 or via e-mail at [email protected]. and we are proud to keep that tradition alive nection between an A.H.E.I.A. membership and In addition, any of our assistant program coordi- Personal References: (Name & Contact Information) a police check. nators at Alford Lake, the Calgary Firearms Cen- as we progress to the next milestone of two mil- This is for new applications only. If a family member is used as a reference, only include one family member. lion students! A.H.E.I.A. has been involved in screening to tre, the Edmonton office or the Calgary office will be more than happy to assist you with this impor- If we have difficulty contacting your references, we will ask you to provide additional references. In today’s society, we are faced with many chal- some degree for quite some time. However, tant part of what we do. lenges and responsibilities as we deliver the like the many groups such as Scouts Canada, programs within the umbrella of conservation Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Meals on Wheels, the We look forward to continuing to work with you 1. Home Phone: Other Phone: education. There are numerous occasions where private and public school system, and numerous as together we deliver Conservation Education students are left in our care as we provide the other agencies as well as numerous employers, programs to an ever expanding audience. It con- services necessary to ensure that they are ade- we have come to understand the need for a tinues to be both a pleasure and an honour to 2. Home Phone: Other Phone: quately trained and appropriately licensed to enter more formalized and stringent process. be associated with each of you in this important the outdoors. Students of all ages and both sexes As an example, relative to the Canadian Firearms community service. are left in our care during exams, survival camps, Program, our instructors submit themselves to classes, lectures and any number of other train- certain ongoing screening as they accept the Applicants Agreement: ing scenarios. These scenarios can take place in responsibility to deliver the Canadian firearms n I will subscribe to and actively promote the mission of A.H.E.I.A. classroom or field environments with many peo- restricted and non-restricted courses. All fire- ple present or one-on-one with an instructor. arms licence holders are subject to continuous n I will abide by the program delivery policies and procedures of A.H.E.I.A. and am aware that they are available to me at www.aheia.com. While the students are in our charge, we have eligibility checks. These checks are done by the n I agree to submit to and provide a police records check, clean of any criminal convictions. a specific duty of care. Duty of care is a legal Firearms Program, and the Chief Firearms Of- President - A.H.E.I.A. principle that is designed to protect vulnerable ficer investigates any eligibility issues raised from n I understand that the participation in A.H.E.I.A. program delivery is voluntary and there is a degree of risk in some of these activities. individuals from manipulation or harm. We, as an these continuous eligibility checks. After carefully considering the risks involved, I will take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety and well being of participants Association and as individual instructors, have Our process, while more stringent, should not entrusted to me and my personal safety. an obligation to take reasonable measures to change the manner in which you currently de- protect our students and to provide an appropri- liver our programs. Hopefully it will result in more ate level or standard of care. face to face time with members of our staff and Additionally, in many of our training and supervi- more communication with each of you as it re- sory functions we are deemed to be in a position lates to the tasks you are performing. As it re- of trust where we have a significant degree of lates to your police criminal records check, we authority or decision making power over those have made application to allow our volunteers to Signature of Applicant Date left in our care. Often times we have unsuper- obtain police checks from their local police serv- vised access to our students and their property. ices at a reduced fee or free. Our Association is 6 7 Edmonton Report Letter of Appreciation

... we continue to look for volunteers who may be able to assist at these events, camps and seminars. I have found this course very professional and empowering to the learner.

By Len Gransch The 2012 Youth Hunter Education Camp is a facility. Registration forms and more information Received via email Hello Jesse: five-day event of fun-filled learning activities. can be downloaded at our website or picked up March 27, 2012 Thank you for taking the time to write regarding our on-line Conservation and Hunter Education Pro- he 2012 Youth Hunter Experts will be sharing their knowledge and at our offices in Calgary and Edmonton. Many I just have to comment on the A.H.E.I.A. Hunter gram. Your kind comments are gratefully received and will be passed on to the team responsible for Education Camp regis- providing instruction in the Alberta Conservation participants only come for our famous whole pig Education course you offer online. I am cur- the creation and upkeep of this program. We are proud of the program, take it very seriously and work tration/information pack- and Hunter Education Program, the Canadian roast supper; the activities are just a bonus, so rently halfway through it and am very apprecia- to continually update and upgrade it. It is extremely gratifying to hear that you are finding it to be of ages are now available for Firearms Safety Course and much more. Upon to speak. tive on how it is done. I find many courses such value to you. download at our website or successful completion of the appropriate exams, As mentioned, we continue to look for volunteers as this — in particular safety courses — often Please stay in touch with us as you complete the program, and if we can assist you in any way, including you can also pick up a copy students will be certified in the Alberta Con- who may be able to assist at events, camps and come off petty, even condescending. I have connecting you with a mentor upon completion of your program or directing you to other programs we at any of our facilities. servation and Hunter Education Program and seminars. If you have some spare time and would found this course very professional and empow- have, we would be happy to do so. Our goal is to connect people to wildlife and wild places through the Canadian Firearms Program. They will then Due to the continued suc- like to help, please contact me at [email protected]. ering to the learner. Thank you for informing us our programs. We firmly believe that our lives are better because of the tremendous resources Alberta Len Gransch cess and popularity of our qualify to apply for their Wildlife Identification Any assistance is always very welcome indeed as Program Coordinator in a respectful manner, especially considering has to offer and in that regard we are doing what we can to protect and preserve these opportunities “ Youth Hunter Education Number (WIN card) through any private licence ” “ ” A.H.E.I.A. we are continually searching for help. this is directed to a population of people who for generations to come. Red Deer - North issuer and be able to apply for their Minor’s Pos- Camps, we will be holding The 2012 Resource Materials and Kit CD is now particularly appreciate the freedoms our country four camps this summer. session Licence for firearms. Wishing you all the best of luck with your activities. May all your wilderness experiences be both safe available. This useful disc contains an up-to-date offers. I'm sure it only further encourages hunt- and rewarding. Camps will run July 1-6, July 8-13, July 15-20 The camps will be held at the Alford Lake Conser- listing of all the resource kits and materials avail- ers to hunt with appreciation and integrity. and July 22-27. All camps will offer the same vation Education Centre for Excellence. The Alford Cheers! able to A.H.E.I.A. instructors and members. To God bless. courses and certifications. Register for the one Lake Camp is located 24 km west of Caroline. get your copy, simply contact our Edmonton of- that suits your schedule best. The camp is open Robert A. Gruszecki If you have attended our Outdoor Youth Semi- fice and we will send you one. President - A.H.E.I.A. to all boys and girls age 12 to 17 (all participants Jesse Rau nar with your children over the years, you know Enjoy yourself in the outdoors and make sure must turn 12 years of age by December 1, 2012 how much fun this event is. This year the semi- to qualify to attend the camp). you take a youngster along with you. Spring is nar runs August 17-19, also at our Alford Lake just around the corner!

For a complete listing of courses and challenge dates at the Calgary and Edmonton Conservation Education Centres for Excellence A.H.E.I.A. Offers Teachers’ Workshop please visit the A.H.E.I.A. website at www.aheia.com July 20-22, 2012

By Kelly Semple berta schools through the Alberta Education For more information, teachers interested in the curriculum, within the Careers and Technolo- workshop should contact A.H.E.I.A. at either n 1964, the Alberta gies Studies option called the “Wildlife Strand.” the Edmonton Conservation Education Centre Government, together A.H.E.I.A. has developed a workshop for for Excellence at [email protected], with Alberta outdoors- teachers related to the Wildlife Strand. Part 780-466-6682 or 1-866-282-4342, or Dave men, created a hunter of the A.H.E.I.A. Teachers’ Workshop will of- Paplawski at [email protected], 403-319-2277 safety program. This pro- fer the certification that teachers require in or 1-866-852-4342. See www.aheia.com for gram later became the order to teach the Conservation and Hunter the registration form. Registration is limited Alberta Conservation and Education and Fishing Education programs. and must be submitted by July 5, 2012. Hunter Education pro- An additional session of the workshop will Kelly Semple gram. Each year, approx- familiarize teachers with outdoor activities Executive Director imately 15,000 students Kelly Semple, Executive Director Hunting for Tomorrow related to Outdoor Experience I and II, in- complete the Conserva- cluding hands-on participation in the Survival Hunting For Tomorrow #87, 4003 - 98th Street tion Education program and Camping Program, the Shooting Program and 6,500 students complete the Fishing Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6M8 (shotgun, small bore and large bore rifle), the Phone: 780-462-2444 Education program. On October 15, 2006, Compass Program, the Fishing Program, and the 1,000,000th student graduated from the Fax: 780-431-2871 the Archery Program. Email: [email protected] Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Associ- A.H.E.I.A. is hosting the Teachers’ Workshop www.huntingfortomorrow.com ation’s (A.H.E.I.A.’s) Conservation and Hunter from July 20-22, 2012. The workshop takes Education program. place at the Alford Lake Conservation Educa- Since April 1, 2010, it is a legal requirement tion Centre for Excellence, which is located for all first-time hunters in the Province of Al- 24 kilometres west of Caroline, Alberta. berta to complete the Alberta Conservation The workshop registration fee is $150.00 per and Hunter Education program or an equiva- person, plus GST. This fee includes all ac- lent hunter education course. commodation, meals, resources materials, The Conservation and Hunter Education and instructor certificates, and a one-year mem- Fishing Education programs are offered in Al- bership to A.H.E.I.A.

8 9 10 11 Did You Trophy Bighorn Sheep Great Meals Know? Management in Alberta from the “ There are no immediate regulation changes planned, but we clearly need to work with Bighorn Sheep provincial hunters and outfitter/guides to achieve a better balance with our objectives.” Size Bighorns are the largest of all North Amer- By Jim Allen Provincially, the age of harvested rams has been Harvest ican wild sheep. Adult rams weigh up to increasing and this trend is also evident in many of 135 kilograms (300 pounds), but adult Head of Game Management ewes are much smaller, averaging 70 kilo- Alberta Fish and Wildlife Division the individual SMAs, which means that by the time grams (150 pounds). rams acquire legal-sized horns, they are significant- n response to stakeholder concerns of a decline ly older than earlier populations. The proportion of Appearance in the quality and quantity of trophy rams availa- young rams (four and five year olds) in the harvest Bighorn sheep are brown to greyish brown ble in some areas, SRD has completed an assess- has been declining. Rams now need to be older to Indian Style Sheep Kebab in colour, with light underparts and an ment of 35 years of trophy sheep registration and reach trophy size, likely due to lower horn growth obvious, light rump patch. The muzzle is aerial survey data for bighorn sheep. The assess- rates than in the past. These results indicate that 1 lb. lean ground sheep meat * white. Bighorn rams have distinctive, large, ment indicates the harvest levels need to be ad- fast growing, larger rams are being shot at a young 1 medium onion (finely chopped) spiralled horns. Ewes and young rams have justed to bring them into line with the management age and are being removed from the population be- 2 tbsp. parsley (chopped) spike-like, curved horns. All bighorn sheep guidelines in the Management Plan for Bighorn 1 tsp. salt have soft hooves with hard outer rims that fore breeding age. Sheep in Alberta (1993). There are no immediate 11/4 cups fine dry bread crumbs give them good footing on precarious ledg- Analysis of sheep harvested by hunters did show 1 egg es. The two parts of a bighorn’s hoof are regulation changes planned, but we clearly need that horn growth (basal circumference and horn 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper not independently movable. Thus, bighorns to work with provincial hunters and outfitter/guides length) has decreased over time when the age of Len Gransch 2 tsp. ground coriander are not as agile as mountain goats on dif- to achieve a better balance with our objectives. To Hunter success for residents who purchase trophy sheep is taken into consideration. Over time, horn Program Coordinator 2 cloves garlic (minced) ficult terrain, though they can move quickly achieve that balance, we’re looking for discussion sheep general licences and special licences aver- length and circumference have declined provincially A.H.E.I.A. Red Deer - North 1/2 tsp. each ground cumin seed, turmeric & ginger over rocky mountain slopes when alarmed. and input from stakeholders about the information ages about 7% over the last 20 years. Non-resident since the mid-1990s, but this trend is not consis- 12 skewers (presoaked in water) contained in this discussion paper. Send your com- Distribution and non-resident alien (combined) hunter success tent throughout the province. For example, the rams ments to me at [email protected]. In a large mixing bowl, mix together thoroughly the ground sheep, onion, garlic, parsley, bread Bighorn sheep populations range from the averages about 49%. The higher success can be in Kananaskis, Bow Valley-Ghost, Clearwater-Ram crumbs, egg, cayenne,with coriander, cumin,Len turmeric, gingerGransch and salt. Using your hands for this job southwest Alberta and west-central Brit- Alberta Fish and Wildlife collects several sets of attributed to being guided during the hunt. and Nordegg-Chungo have exhibited a decrease works very well. ish Columbia alpine regions east through data on bighorn sheep, including horn measure- in overall horn length and circumference, while ram Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Next roll into a thin cylinder approximately 6" long and Montana and south through California and ments, when bighorn sheep are registered. Infor- Bighorn Sheep Aerial Survey Data horns in other SMAs, such as Cadomin and Torrens, string onto the skewers. Using your hands, press the meat securely over each skewer to form a New Mexico to northern Mexico. There mation from aerial population surveys, over 8000 have increased. In 2011, plans were made to survey all sheep win- smooth sausage-like shape evenly over the skewer. Set aside. are approximately 35,000 bighorns in sheep registrations, and the collection of DNA North America, ranging from northern Al- tering ranges in the province including the national Factors that affect horn growth are complex. It has Cook either on the barbeque or use the broiler in your oven until browned and cooked to your have been used to do an analysis of the data to berta to New Mexico. Alberta has the larg- parks (thanks for assistance from the Wild Sheep been shown that climatic conditions, habitat quality, preference. evaluate management areas, population and har- est population with over 10,000 animals. Foundation, Hunting for Tomorrow Foundation and high sheep densities and genetics can all contrib- vest trends, and to give direction for future bighorn There are many prepared fruit chutneys that work well as a dipping sauce. Combining chutney Alberta Conservation Association). The intent of this ute to this decline. Habitat sheep management. with yogurt also works well. Serve with rice pilaf and a flat bread or pita bread. survey was to determine the spatial winter distribu- Bighorns spend their summers high in the * Also works well with other ground wild game meat. tion of the provincial sheep population, provincial Management Options alpine zone on grass-covered slopes. In Licence Sales and Harvest population trends and the proportion of trophy rams The Management Plan for Bighorn Sheep in Alberta winter, they may migrate a considerable Hunting licence sales over the past 35 years peaked distance to reach south or southwest-fac- that were in the post hunting season population. The (1993) lists several options that could be consid- at over 3,000 in the mid-1980s and, like most other ing slopes where snow cover is minimal. pre-hunting season population estimate was calcu- ered to increase the number of rams available. They hunting licences, experienced a decrease through the Fruit Cocktail Cake with Gooey Topping lated to be 6,466. The total bighorn population has include the following: Food 1990s. More recently, the number of bighorn sheep 1 not changed much in the last ten years, however 1 /2 cups granulated white sugar 2 cups flour Bighorn sheep graze on grasses and forbs, licences purchased has averaged around 2,200. Pro- • Longer waiting periods for purchasing a trophy 1 there have been some Sheep Management Areas 2 tsp. baking powder /2 tsp. salt and may also browse on alpine willows. They vincially, ram harvest has declined since the 1980s. sheep licence following successfully harvesting 2 eggs 1/4 tsp. ground cloves (SMAs) which have experienced overall declines in make frequent use of mineral or salt licks. North of the Brazeau River, ram harvest has been of a ram; 1 bighorn sheep numbers, such as Nordegg-Chungo 14 oz. can fruit cocktail (with juice) /4 tsp. ground allspice • Breeding Behaviour relatively constant; however, south of the Brazeau and Ram-Shunda sheep management areas. Popu- Increased licence fees; Combine all ingredients except flour. Mix well, then blend in flour. It works best if you do this by The rut occurs from November to Decem- River the declines in harvest are more pronounced. lations are growing in sheep management areas • Limited entry draw (special licences); or hand rather with a food processor. Grease a 9"x13" metal cake pan. Pour batter into cake pan ber. Lambs are born the following spring. In Alberta, there is a limited entry draw for non- north of the Brazeau River. • A limit on the number of trophy rams per hunter and spread out evenly. Tap pan on counter top to set batter. Bake at 350° F. for approximately 45 in a lifetime. minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Status resident Canadians with only two permits per year issued. There are currently 88 allocations that are Age of Harvested Rams, Horn Length, Try a variation by adding raisins or nuts. Bighorn sheep are classified as Secure in the All of these options have advantages and disad- held by outfitters for non-residents or non-resident General Status of Alberta Wild Species report. and Basal Circumference vantages and will have varying effects on hunting aliens. Not all of these are purchased by hunters Gooey Topping The registration of harvested trophy bighorn sheep opportunities. We believe it is important to keep Current Management each year; in fact, the average number of NR and recreational hunting opportunities for residents as 3/4 cup granulated white sugar 1/2 cup evaporated milk started in 1971 and the database holds over 8000 See details in the Alberta Guide to Hunt- NRA sheep hunters in Alberta annually is 83. Al- liberal as possible, but hunting opportunities must be 1 entries of trophy rams with age and horn measure- /2 cup margarine or butter 1 tsp. vanilla ing Regulations (visit the My Wild Alberta berta’s Management Plan for Bighorn Sheep allows ments. This analysis covered data collected between in the framework of maintaining quality hunting and Bring sugar, evaporated milk and margarine to a boil. Reduce heat immediately and simmer for one website at Hunting: Regulations). 20% of the harvest for non-residents at a provincial 1974 and 2009. The intent of the analysis was to see conservation management. There are no regulation minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, add vanilla and stir. Pour evenly over the top of the scale. The long term average has fluctuated very Sharp-Eyed Bighorn if there have been any changes over time in age, changes planned for trophy bighorn sheep in the im- cake. The topping will soak in. Allow to cool before serving. Serve straight up or try a little whipping close to that number for the last 20 years. In 2011, Bighorn sheep can detect movement over horn length or basal circumference of harvested tro- mediate future. This paper is presented to the Alber- cream and shaved chocolate on the next piece. non-residents harvested 34 rams, 20% of the total a kilometre (0.62 miles) away. phy bighorn sheep. ta public for discussion and to encourage input for combined provincial harvest of 168 rams. consideration in management planning for the future.

12 13 Law of the Wild

It takes patience to observe a ram, waiting until you’ve had a chance to view the horns in profile.

By Ben Branscombe in order to accurately judge whether a ram is Is there still a minimum cartridge length re- Regulations Officer legal to harvest. It takes patience to observe a Q. quirement in Alberta? Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Branch ram, waiting until you’ve had a chance to view At one time a person could not hunt big the horns in profile. On page 40 of the 2011 Al- How can I tell whether a bighorn sheep is A.game in Alberta using ammunition having berta Guide to Hunting Regulations (available at Q. legal to harvest? a cartridge case with a length under a specific www.albertaregulations.ca), there are diagrams measurement (1.75 inches) and to be legal it A hunter should first check the Alberta showing how to identify the three categories of also had to be of a calibre that was .23 or larger. Hunting Draws booklet in order to tell A. sheep. Currently in Alberta there is no minimum car- whether a bighorn sheep hunting season is Male bighorn sheep that are over the age of tridge length, but legal ammunition for hunting open in a particular Wildlife Management Unit ;OL(76:/\U[PUN/LYVLZ7YVNYHT one year are subject to compulsory registration big game remains at .23 calibre or larger, or for (WMU) and whether the season applies to the at a Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Branch dis- muzzle-loading rifles, the minimum is .44 cali- whole WMU or a portion of it. A hunter needs :WVUZVYLKI`[OL(SILY[H7YVMLZZPVUHS6\[Ä[[LYZ:VJPL[` “ trict office. The complete unaltered skull must bre. Provided the ammunition” is legal to use for [VOVUV\YV\YOLYVLZ[OLTLUHUK^VTLUVM[OL*HUHKPHU to establish whether the WMU has a hunt- Look Who’s be submitted with horns and eyes intact (within hunting big game (e.g., not a full-metal jacketed TPSP[HY`^OVOH]LZHJYPÄJLKZVT\JOVUV\YILOHSM ing season for “trophy sheep”, “full-curl trophy 14 days following the kill or within seven days of round, and firing bullets of .23 calibre or larger), sheep”, or “non-trophy sheep”. In certain WMUs the close of the season, whichever occurs first). then the cartridge length can be of any size. This ;OPZPUP[PH[P]LTH[JOLZ\W^V\UKLK*HUHKPHU]L[LYHUZ a resident hunter may be able to obtain a general This registration requirement (for male bighorn regulation change has increased the popularity ^P[O(SILY[H»ZWYVMLZZPVUHSV\[Ä[[LYZ[VWHY[HRLPU licence to hunt a category of bighorn sheep that All Grown Up! sheep over the age of one year) also applies if of some short range rifle ammunition such as the HWYVMLZZPVUHSS`N\PKLKO\U[PUNL_WLYPLUJL has an open season, whereas in many WMUs the sheep was harvested under a constitutional .44 magnum or the 7.62mmx39mm cartridge. the hunter must obtain a special licence through right to hunt for food. Be the first person to guess the identity -VYTVYLPUMVYTH[PVUJVU[HJ[(76:H[   the draw process. If you observe a hunting or fishing violation, If you have any further questions relating to hunt- please contact the Report A Poacher number of of this A.H.E.I.A. staffer to win a pair of VY]PHLTHPSH[PUMV'HWVZHIJH Each province or state may have different require- ing, please contact the Fish and Wildlife Enforce- 1-800-642-3800 or your local Fish and Wildlife ments related to sheep harvest. When hunting ment Branch district office nearest where you live Enforcement Branch district office, dialling 310- in Alberta, the hunter must view the ram’s head 10"x25" Binoculars (or where you intend to hunt), dialling 310-0000 0000 if within Alberta. Officers rely on your ob- from a horizontal plane and in profile (with the ^^^HWVZHIJH for toll-free directory assistance within Alberta. servations in the field. front of the right and the left horn bases aligned) Contest rules state that you must have fun! A green A.H.E.I.A. backpack Entries must be received by May 15, 2012. containing a variety of elk calls. Contest open to all A.H.E.I.A. members. Last seen on Sunday afternoon NASP Donation LOST at the Edmonton Boat and This past year saw the Alberta archery Sportsmen’s Show. Name: and bowhunting community lose three great people: If you know where the backpack may be, please contact Address: John Wuin Craig Reed Dennis Hooey Matt Shaw at 403-831-5359. Red Deer Calgary Lethbridge Phone: Your reward will be a free elk calling lesson from Matt. Many of you likely knew them in one way or another, and had them impact you as an archer and a bow- hunter. In their memory, and to honour their contributions, the Alberta Bowhunters Association has do- This little guy is: nated $1000 to the Alberta National Archery in the Schools Program (administered through A.H.E.I.A.). A plaque and cheque is presented to A.H.E.I.A. President Bob Gruszecki (left) by ABA Regulations Di- You will be notified by letter. Send your entry to us via email at rector Tom Foss (right). Individual plaques have also been presented to the family of each individual. [email protected], fax 403-252-3770, or mail to A.H.E.I.A., 911 Sylvester Crescent S.W., Calgary, AB T2W 0R8. For additional information please contact WIND SPIRIT GRAPHICS Dave at 780-466-6682 or email [email protected]. Custom Print Design

Newsletters / Magazines Winter 2011 Funny Caption Contest Winner Catalogues / Price Lists Advertising Congratulations to our winner Brochures Posters Books Austin Ball Manuals for the funniest caption. Directories We hope you enjoy your prize, a pair of 10"x25" binoculars! Event Programmes Thank you to all of the participants of the funny caption contest for all the laughs! Here’s the Winning Caption: Email [email protected] “Ah yes, they are swollen.” Designing the AHEIA Conservation Education Magazine

14 15 After a while we approached the landowner to not normally open on a Saturday, or a Remem- (AKA hey Zeus): the north across the road, who gave us permis- brance Day Friday either. Dear Len sion, which is just as well because the first slew As per your request, here’s my story (what That afternoon was spent touring the country- we encountered, you’ve guessed it BINGO. A side and we saw another two bucks, a doe and hunter doesn’t have one), so if you are sitting group of five, a mix, the first four came out, and comfortably, then I’ll begin ... a fawn on the crest, dare I say a summit, of a hill. then the last, a doe, and she was limping. I was Here we spotted another pair from our group Become Involved as a Mentor First of all, I got to hear of the mentored hunt so relieved, we’d found her. The group seemed stalking the deer. They did get within 400 yards, while attending the Outdoor Women’s Program to part and, like in slow motion, there was my but the wind changed. More stalking did ensue “ ... the rewards to both you and your student will be well worth the time and effort.” in 2010. While all the ducks didn’t quite get in a doe standing broadside alone in the middle of down the lea of the hill, but the wind had started row for that fall, they definitely came up trumps the parted group. I took another standing shot to circle, which made things ever so tricky. for this one. I would like to say that the story this time and they all took off to the west and starts with it being a sunny day, but it’s Alberta then to the south, but only four crossed the road Returning back to camp, we did see six white- in November, so regrettably that would be a no to the south. We walked in the general direction tailed deer, the first ones I saw down there, By Len Gransch Once again this year, I was responsible for coor- then. In reality, it was freezing rain in my neck of of their initial run and there she was. It only took granted in the distance, but at least in this case dinating our mentored hunts at Alford Lake. The the woods, and so delayed the start of what was us moments to reach her and she had already we could actually recognize them as white-tailed f you have followed my mentors were Jim Ford, Doug Urichuk and Matt a great weekend. passed away. What mixed feelings; relieved that and not just a brown blur with a white exclama- articles over these many Shaw who mentored Goetz Dapp, Hasan Razak, we’d found her after the original hit, thankful that tion as they bound off doing mach four in the years, you know that men- Horatiu Muresan, Tim Frances and Mounir Ri- The journey commenced from A.H.E.I.A. HQ in she would provide the meat, and sad that she’d opposite direction. Let’s call them very skittish. torship has always been an fai. It is always a pleasure to see the interaction Edmonton, and while I didn’t really know the rest passed — fairly hard to explain really. Anyway, they were all does and I needed a buck extremely important part of between mentor and participant, and especially of the inmates, trust me, by the time we reached for my tag. More food was consumed on our re- my life. I repeatedly partici- when the participant gets it. The entire experi- Oyen I think I knew their boot and bra size ... turn back to camp, and lots of stories of the day pate in mentoring, and con- ence is what is emphasised on these hunts. Har- (Don’t worry Len, I’ll not tell anyone yours, lol.) and previous days ensued. Guess you had tinually try to get friends, vesting an animal is just icing on the cake. We reached the town for lunch (a lovely to be there; there was a lot to say and a acquaintances, instructors — Chinese restaurant, food was great and Len Gransch When I talk to potential individuals about becom- lot of laughing and huge quantities of Program Coordinator anyone who will listen — to service was so very friendly), then on to ing mentors, they often indicate that they do chili. Yes, it tasted great and it did half A.H.E.I.A. become a mentor. the range and meeting the mentors. I had Red Deer - North not have time to take someone out during their Kate’s Story warm the tent later too, lol. Again, another the great honour and pleasure to be paired Hunting for Tomorrow and hunting time. If one takes this attitude, I wonder relatively late night to bed and we all took with Kevyn Parker and had what can only be the Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ As- if most hunters would have actually become a turns stacking the fire in the tent to maintain our described as a BLAST. She had me ranging in sociation offer numerous opportunities for both hunter at all. I agree that it can be a bit of an own ecosystem. her Rifle (7mm) and dinging gongs like they mentors and mentees to get involved in numer- inconvenience, but the rewards to both you and were going out of fashion until the setting of the Next day, a small amount of rearranging and one ous and varied programs. your student will be well worth the time and ef- sun. Then on to the camp which would be our of the other girls that hadn’t filled her mule doe fort. You will be happy you took the step to be- I have been very fortunate to be involved with Doug Urichuk (left) and Goetz Dapp (right). home for the next couple of days. Great set up, ... the weekend was ... tag went out with Kevyn and I went with another come involved ... I guarantee it. the annual mule deer hunt co-sponsored by women’s tent, men’s tents, a communal dining mentor, Ken, and his apprentice. Throughout the A.H.E.I.A. and the Big Country Rod and Gun tent and, okay I’ll say it, a Loo (washroom for ... life shaping ... day we saw deer and stalked, ate chocolate, Club out of Oyen. This year, the four participants Canadians). Cannot quite remember if I ate any- Everyone who is drank coffee, talked, laughed, saw the country- joining me on the trek south from Edmonton thing else that night, but apparently my scales side and covered vast quantities of questions were Kate Siddle, Teara Fragoso, and Mark and say I did. I hit the sack in readiness for the forth- interested in hunting about hunting and deer habits and techniques, Brenton Field. We rendezvoused with the par- coming day ahead ... eeeeeeeh! I was so excited and while we didn’t get a deer the next day, it ticipants from the Calgary and Oyen areas. Spe- I don’t know how I slept, but must have because should experience was still very worthwhile and an awesome ex- cial thanks to the Oyen crew and mentors who apparently, at one point, one of the girls did an environment perience. Thank you to Ken who answered so continue to do a remarkable job and continually To register as a mentor or mentorship participant, check my pulse as they feared death because many questions that he was almost hoarse and raise the bar when it comes to mentored hunts. please visit the Hunting for Tomorrow website at I didn’t move, but woke bright eyed and bushy like this. thinking that he’d been captured by the Gestapo. They constantly instil the proper values and em- tailed the next day. What a good sport! phasize that fact that there is more to hunting “ www.huntingfortomorrow.com We had an early start the first morning. Woke, Then it was back to camp and packed and tags than just harvesting an animal. Look for Kate’s 1 for more information. grabbed a buttie (breakfast sandwich) and /2 done for the heads and trucks packed, and away story following this article. we went. We stopped for munchies and coffee tonne of chocolate bars, and away we went. After some documentary evidence was collect- and a great supper. Len, I would have to say that Kevyn had already done the spotting and, true ed (that’s photos; have to say she was a stunner, I so owe you a coffee. We actually did get back a to her word, we alighted upon some mule deer. not me, the doe), the gutting and skinning com- bit earlier than we first anticipated, but it was still There were a group of three (sorry if the word menced. Would have to say in my own personal a bit of a late night. isn’t group, but hey I’m learning and it’s my sto- experience, never let your friends sharpen your ry) — a doe, a fawn and a buck. hunting knife; it was as sharp as a spoon. Again, I would have to say that the weekend was life We pulled past the group and quietly got out of Kevyn stepped in ... told you, an absolute star shaping and a thoroughly enjoyable experience. You will be happy Kevyn’s truck, safely loaded the rifle and snuck ... and let me use her knife. We had a slight lit- I would like to thank everyone that made this through the bush. I think they could have heard tle accident with the old gut pile ... sorry Kevyn, possible and so special. Everyone who is inter- you took the step my heart beat, as I would have sworn that it was still owe you a truck wash (but that’s a different ested in hunting should experience an environ- up near my throat. story). Well, a very successful day and it wasn’t ment like this. It was educational, safe and fun, to become involved and hopefully I have met some people during To get a better shot, we did the action man/com- over yet. After a bite of” lunch and some grovel- this adventure that will remain in contact. ... I guarantee it. mando thing (crawl). We were in camouflage ling for a white tail deer tag from the hardware and didn’t want to waste the opportunity. I lined store and then the insurance office, then back Well Len, you didn’t say that it had to be short, up the crosshairs on the doe, with encourag- spotting for the others in the group. I have to do you just said that I was short, lol. Thanks for the ing words from Kevyn ... What can I say? She a couple of special thanks here at this point. To banter and again thanks for waiting, would have rocks. Then bang; a hit? Oh no, knew I flinched the lady who went out of her way at the hard- hated to have missed it. Now after sitting for so and unfortunately hit the doe in the front leg. At ware shop: She was actually closed and had long reading my epic journey, I reckon you’ll this point the doe took off to the south over the even stopped selling tags. After one phone call, have a numb bum too. Got you, lol. “ or should I say magic wand, the insurance of- brow of the hill and didn’t come up on the other When the bell rings ... round two please. side, so the tracking commenced. We looked all fice, which was also closed, opened faster than Thanks again. around for quite some considerable time, playing you could say open sesame and a tag was pro- back everything in our heads and my flinch. What duced. So, to the lady, and I believe her son, a big thank you, and to anyone reading this, the Mounir Rifai Kate Siddle can I say? I do guilt really well; just knew that I’d hit the doe and didn’t want to see her suffer. insurance office now sells the tags and they are Kate Siddle 16 ” 17 The world is in your hands.

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18 19 IF HUNTING WAS JUST ANOTHER HOBBY, WE’D BE JUST ANOTHER STORE.

But it isn’t, is it?

It’s a way of life. Actually, if you feel the way we do, being out in the wild with a gun in your hands is living. And being inside is just a hobby to pass the time.

ONLY WHOLESALE SPORTS IS AS OBSESSED WITH HUNTING AS YOU ARE. AND WE HAVE THE PEOPLE AND GEAR TO PROVE IT.

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