MATTERSMATTERS OF OF O OPINIONPINION

s I write this, we’re still Mike Szymanski, migratory game bird more than two weeks from management supervisor, nailed it on Out- the first day of summer. doors Online, the Department’s weekly For the people who live in webcast, when he said, “It is a very , I’m guess- unique data set and we are pretty proud ingA that seasonal marker means little in of what we’ve got here in North Dakota.” terms of when it’s time to get outdoors. At this time of year, much of the focus Anglers have been fishing open water from those who enjoy recreating out- for weeks and North Dakota’s spring wild doors centers around our big waters, turkey season has come and gone. such as Lake Sakakawea and Devils Game and Fish Department fisheries Lake, and the 400-plus district fisheries staff started taking northern pike eggs scattered across the state. at Lake Oahe in mid-April and jumped to Aside from stocking fish and other Terry Steinwand TerryDirector Steinwand the walleye spawn on Lake Sakakawea work needed to maintain quality fish- in early May. Wildlife staff surveyed mule ing opportunities for anglers, there are Director deer in the badlands in early spring many infrastructure items that need to be after the snow was gone and before the addressed on an annual basis. Such as leaves popped, which makes it easier to delivering docks to new lakes, installing spot animals from an airplane. grinders at fish cleaning stations, repair- My point is, when Mother Nature ing boat ramps, installing new ramps, and allows – and sometimes even when she the list goes on and on. doesn’t during our leanest months – the Speaking of the latter, plans called for North Dakota Game and Fish Depart- two district lakes – North Washington ment is a busy place, with much of the Lake in Eddy County and Kislingbury action taking place outdoors this time of Lake in McIntosh County – to get new year. ramps this open water season. For instance, Game and Fish staff Again, without belaboring my point, completed the Department’s 72nd the staff here at the Game and Fish annual spring breeding duck survey Department works hard on many things in May. During this statewide survey, that go unnoticed, and some that don’t, which covered more than 450 square in an effort to provide the best possible miles, two-person crews counted every experiences for hunters, anglers and wetland and wetland basin that had others. water along the survey routes. They also While this agency is one of the small- counted ducks, noting the species of est wildlife agencies in the country, you each. wouldn’t, in my opinion, know it by the What’s interesting about this effort amount and quality of work that gets is that it’s believed to be the longest- done. running breeding waterfowl population This effort is something we can all survey done on such a large scale in the appreciate the next time we are enjoying world. North Dakota’s great outdoors. DEPARTMENT DIRECTORY Governor Doug Burgum ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION Game and Fish Director: Terry Steinwand Deputy Director: Scott Peterson Chief, Administrative Services: Kim Kary Business Manager: Corey Wentland Administrative Staff Officer: Justin Mattson Administrative Assistant: Lynn Timm Administrative Officer/Building Maint. Supvr: George Lee Accounting Manager: Angie Morrison Accountants: Kelly Wike, Melissa Long, Ashley Baker The mission of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department is to protect, conserve and enhance fish and wildlife IT Section Supervisor/GIS Specialist: Brian Hosek populations and their habitats for sustained public consumptive and nonconsumptive use. IT Coordinators: Alan Reile, Larry Gross Licensing Manager: Randy Meissner Assistants: Gail Mosset, Amanda Anstrom, Tracy Price, . Editor: Ron Wilson . Graphic Designer: Connie Schiff . Circulation Manager: Dawn Jochim Tana Bentz, Tanya Mikkelsen Administrative Assistant – Dickinson: Janel Kolar, Stephanie Richardson Administrative Assistant – Devils Lake: Lisa Tofte JULY 2019 • NUMBER 1 • VOLUME LXXXII Administrative Assistant – Jamestown: Tonya Kukowski Administrative Assistant – Riverdale: Vacant Administrative Assistant – Williston: Samantha Oster TABLE OF CONTENTS CONSERVATION AND COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION FEATURES Division Chief: Greg Link, Bismarck Communications Supervisor: Craig Bihrle, Bismarck The Value of Helping Hands...... 2 Editor, North Dakota OUTDOORS: Ron Wilson, Bismarck Digital Media Editor: Lara Anderson, Bismarck Delivering Wildlife Data...... 6 News Editor: Greg Freeman, Bismarck Video Project Supervisor: Mike Anderson, Bismarck North Country Trail, North Dakota’s Open Secret...... 8 Photographer/Asst. Videographer: Ashley Salwey Outreach Biologists: Doug Leier, West Fargo; Greg Gullickson, Minot; Managing Fish and Angling Opportunities in the Northeast...... 14 Pat Lothspeich, Bismarck; Jim Job, Grand Forks Information Specialist: Dawn Jochim, Bismarck Graphic Artist: Connie Schiff, Bismarck DEPARTMENTS Education Supervisor: Marty Egeland, Bismarck Education Coordinators: Jeff Long, Brian Schaffer, Bismarck Buffaloberry Patch...... 18 Hunter Education Coordinator: John Mazur, Bismarck Conservation Supervisor: Steve Dyke, Bismarck Back Cast ...... 25 Resource Biologists: John Schumacher, Bruce Kreft, Bismarck Conservation Biologists: Sandra Johnson, Patrick Isakson, Elisha Mueller, Bismarck Administrative Assistant: Brandon Diehl, Bismarck ENFORCEMENT DIVISION Division Chief: Robert Timian, Bismarck Investigative Supervisor: Scott Winkelman, Bismarck Operations Supervisor: Jackie Lundstrom, Bismarck Warden Pilot: Jeff Sieger, Bismarck Region No. 1 Warden Supvr: Mark Pollert, Jamestown District Wardens: Corey Erck, Bismarck; Jerad Bluem, Steele; Michael Sedlacek, Fargo; Front Cover Tim Phalen, Wyndmere; Andrew Dahlgren, Edgeley; Erik Schmidt, Linton; Greg Hastings, Jamestown. Sam Feldman Fishing for northern pike before sunset on a Burleigh Region No. 2 Warden Supvr: Paul Freeman, Devils Lake District Wardens: Jonathan Tofteland, Bottineau; Jonathan Peterson, Devils Lake; James County lake. Photo by Craig Bihrle. Myhre, New Rockford; Blake Riewer, Grand Forks; Alan Howard, Cando; Peter Miley, Cavalier; Drew Johnson, Rugby Region No. 3 Warden Supvr: Doug Olson, Riverdale District Wardens: Jim Burud, Kenmare; Tim Larson, Turtle Lake; Ken Skuza, Riverdale; Michael Raasakka, Stanley; Brian Updike, Minot; Joe Lucas, Watford City; Shawn Sperling, Keenan Snyder, Williston Region No. 4 Warden Supvr: Dan Hoenke, Dickinson District Wardens: Kylor Johnston, Hazen; Art Cox, Bowman; Courtney Sprenger, Elgin; Zane Manhart, Golva; Jake Miller, Killdeer; Jeff Violett, Mandan; Zachary Schuchard, Richardton Administrative Assistant: Lori Kensington, Bismarck WILDLIFE DIVISION Division Chief: Jeb Williams, Bismarck Assistant Division Chief: Casey Anderson, Bismarck Official publication of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department (ISSN 0029-2761) Game Mgt. Section Leader: Stephanie Tucker, Bismarck 100 N. Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck, ND 58501-5095 Pilot: Jeff Faught, Bismarck Upland Game Mgt. Supervisor: Jesse Kolar, Dickinson Website: gf.nd.gov • email: [email protected] Upland Game Mgt. Biologist: Rodney Gross, Bismarck • Information 701-328-6300 • Administration 701-328-6305 Migratory Game Bird Mgt. Supervisor: Mike Szymanski, Bismarck Migratory Game Bird Biologist: Andrew Dinges, Bismarck • Outdoors Subscriptions 701-328-6363 Big Game Mgt. Supvr: Bruce Stillings, Dickinson • Hunter Education 701-328-6615 • Licensing 701-328-6335 Big Game Mgt. Biologists: Bill Jensen, Bismarck; Brett Wiedmann, Dickinson; Jason Smith, Jamestown • 24-Hour Licensing by Phone: 800-406-6409 Survey Coordinator: Chad Parent, Bismarck • The TTY/TTD (Relay ND) number for the hearing or speech impaired is 800-366-6888 Wildlife Veterinarian: Dr. Charlie Bahnson, Bismarck Game Management Technician: Ryan Herigstad, Bismarck Wildlife Resource Management Section Leader: Kent Luttschwager, Williston North Dakota OUTDOORS is published 10 times a year, monthly except for the months of April and Wildlife Resource Mgt. Supvrs: Bill Haase, Bismarck; Brian Prince, Devils Lake; Brian September. Subscription rates are $10 for one year or $20 for three years. Group rates of $7 a year are avail- Kietzman, Jamestown; Dan Halstead, Riverdale; Blake Schaan, Lonetree Wildlife Resource Mgt. Biologists: Arvid Anderson, Riverdale; Randy Littlefield, Lonetree; able to organizations presenting 25 or more subscriptions. Remittance should be by check or money order Rodd Compson, Jamestown; Judd Jasmer, Dickinson; Jacob Oster, Williston payable to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Indicate if subscription is new or renewal. The Wildlife Techs: Tom Crutchfield, Jim Houston, Bismarck; Dan Morman, Robert Miller, Riverdale; Ernest Dawson, Jamestown; Cordell Schmitz, Brandon Ramsey, Lonetree; Scott Olson, Devils numbers on the upper right corner of the mailing label indicate the date of the last issue a subscriber will Lake; Zach Kjos, Williston receive unless the subscription is renewed. Private Land Section Leader: Kevin Kading, Bismarck Asst. Private Land Coordinator: Doug Howie, Bismarck Permission to reprint materials appearing in North Dakota OUTDOORS must be obtained from the Private Land Field Operation Coordinator: Nathan Harling, Bismarck Private Land Biologists: Colin Penner, Levi Jacobson, Bismarck; Curtis Francis, Jaden Honey- author, artist or photographer. We encourage contributions; contact the editor for writer and photography man, Dickinson; Ryan Huber, Riverdale; Renae Schultz, Jamestown; Terry Oswald, Jr., Lonetree; guidelines prior to submission. Todd Buckley, Williston; Andrew Ahrens, Devils Lake Procurement Officer: Dale Repnow, Bismarck The NDGFD receives federal financial assistance from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In accordance Administrative Assistant: Alegra Powers, Bismarck Lonetree Administrative Assistant: Diana Raugust, Harvey with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the FISHERIES DIVISION Division Chief: Greg Power, Bismarck Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Title IX of the Education Fisheries Mgt. Section Leader: Scott Gangl, Bismarck Amendments of 1972, the NDGFD joins the U.S. Department of the Interior and its bureaus in prohibit- Fisheries Supvrs: Jeff Hendrickson, Dickinson; Jason Lee, Riverdale; Paul Bailey, Bismarck; Randy Hiltner, Devils Lake; Dave Fryda, Riverdale; Brandon Kratz, Jamestown ing discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex (in education programs Fisheries Biologists: Russ Kinzler, Riverdale; Todd Caspers, Devils Lake; Aaron Slominski, or activities) and also religion for the NDGFD. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any Williston; Mike Johnson, Jamestown Fisheries Techs: Phil Miller, Devils Lake; Pat John, Jamestown; Justen Barstad, Bismarck; Brian program, activity, or facility as described above, or you desire further information, please write to: N. D. Frohlich, Riverdale; Jeff Merchant, Dickinson Game and Fish Department, Attn: Chief Administrative Services, 100 N. Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck, Production/Development Section Supvr: Jerry Weigel, Bismarck Aquatic Habitat Supvr: Scott Elstad, Bismarck ND 58501-5095 or to: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Attn: Civil Rights Coordinator, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Aquatic Nuisance Species Coordinator: Jessica Howell, Jamestown Mail Stop: MBSP-4020, Arlington,Virginia 22203. Fisheries Development Supvr: Bob Frohlich, Bismarck Fisheries Dev. Proj. Mgr: Wesley Erdle, Bismarck Fisheries Development Technician: Kyle Hoge, Bismarck Administrative Assistant: Janice Vetter, Bismarck Periodical Postage Paid at POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

ADVISORY BOARD Bismarck, ND 58501 North Dakota OUTDOORS District 1 ...... Beau Wisness, Keene 100 North Bismarck Expressway District 2 ...... Robert Gjellstad, Velva and additional entry offices. District 3 ...... Thomas Rost, Devils Lake Printed in the Bismarck, ND 58501-5095 District 4 ...... Joe Solseng, Grand Forks District 5 ...... Duane Hanson, West Fargo District 6 ...... Cody Sand, Forbes Report All Poachers (RAP) 701-328-9921 District 7 ...... David Nehring, Bismarck District 8 ...... Dwight Hecker, Fairfield In cooperation with North Dakota Wildlife Federation and North Dakota State Radio. Cole Thompson (left) and Zach Kulla (right), both Game and Fish Department seasonal employees at Lonetree Wildlife Management Area, mend a border fence on Lonetree.

THE VALUE OF HELPING

HANDS By Ron Wilson

2 ND Outdoors July 2019 You can hardly swing a gillnet at a North Dakota Game and Fish Department gathering without hitting a full-time staffer who wasn’t employed as a seasonal worker earlier in their career. By most counts, more than half of the 163 full-time Game and Fish Department employees hired on as seasonal staff during their college years. Department wildlife and fisher- Yies managers place a high value on this part-time staff because of the number of tasks, many of which go unseen by the public, that get accomplished by young, hard-working hands. “Without the help from sea- sonal staff, we as a Department just wouldn’t get by,” said Terry Steinwand, current Department director and seasonal worker in 1975-76. While the Department hires both full-time, year-round and summer seasonal staff, the majority work during the summer months. “It’s in summer, with the help of our seasonal staff, when a good portion of our workload is getting accomplished,” said Casey Anderson, Department assistant wildlife division chief and seasonal worker in summer 2001. “For example, while weed management seems tedious, it’s a necessary task that is accom- Seasonal workers with

ASHLEY SALWEY plished by these people on the Game and Fish Game and Fish Department wild- Department fisheries life management areas around crews play a huge the state. Plus, there is always role in collecting fish some boundary issues, fences to population sampling fix on these properties … the list data on many North goes on.” Dakota lakes. Just for some perspective, there are about 220 wildlife management areas owned or managed by the Department across the state, totaling roughly 220,000 acres. CRAIG BIHRLE

July 2019 ND Outdoors 3 to get done, but we just don’t have the time and personnel to do it ourselves.” Kelly Zorn, Greg Power, Department fisheries Department chief, was a summer seasonal in 1979 seasonal employee, and remembers that he, well, knew tags a walleye on very little about what needed to be Lake Sakakawea done or how to do it when he started. as part of a walleye He guesses what he felt then is no tagging study. different than what young seasonal workers experience today. “I thought at the time, ‘What did it get myself into … this is not what the college textbooks taught me,’” Power said. “This is not the job for you if you think you are going to be sitting behind a desk, instead with fisheries crews you will get your hands wet, feet wet and grease up to your elbows in the shop. The work is critical to our mission and we simply wouldn’t get it done without the help.” Much of the fish population sampling data earned by hours of netting fish in many of North Dakota’s waters is the byproduct of seasonal sweat and effort. “They set the nets, pull the nets, take the fish out of the nets and sometimes record the data,” Power said. “Depending on where they are with their experience, those who return for another summer or two will lead a crew. These people are critical to our data collection.” Paul Bailey, Department district fisheries supervisor in Bismarck, said the tradeoff for a summer of hard work is valuable experience. “While seasonal workers are essen- tial in getting our work done because having those extra bodies is extremely helpful,” Bailey said, “what we offer out in the of the Bismarck office is the experience and diversity of working on big waters like Lake Oahe and the and many of the smaller district lakes water ASHLEY SALWEY that are also incredible fisheries. It’s a great experience if you want to work in “Oftentimes what Department sea- the fisheries field.” sonal employees are doing is not glam- For the most part, those people who orous work, but extremely important in apply for seasonal work with Game and fulfilling our mission at the Game and Fish have designs on working with a Fish Department,” said Scott Peterson, wildlife agency, or somewhere similar, Department deputy director. Peterson’s once they graduate. first summer as a Department seasonal “We consider these seasonal jobs was in 1979. “Spraying weeds, plant- as somewhat of a paid internship,” ing trees, planting grass, fixing what’s Peterson said. “Looking back, when I broken … all of those duties that need worked that first summer as a seasonal

4 ND Outdoors July 2019 on the browse crew in western North Dakota, I think it was important that I got to rub elbows with people working for the Department and get some sort of an understanding of how things worked. Plus, I thought it was pretty good duty to spend the summer in a camper in the badlands.” Power said he would bet that 99 percent of the seasonal workers Depart- ment personnel interview, and hire, are in college or have recently graduated. “And I would wager that the majority have an interest in working at the Game and Fish Department for a summer or two because that’s what they are study- ing in school,” he said. “I will have to say that I’m nothing but impressed with the work ethic of those people we do hire. That, and their passion to make this a way of life, speaks highly of the people who work for us.” Peterson, Power and Anderson all agree their summer stints on the water sampling fish or on land spraying weeds for the Department was critical in eventu-

ally landing full-time positions. MIKE ANDERSON “I thought it was more important than who I knew, but that they knew my work ethic,” Anderson said. Kevin Frigon (top), Department seasonal employee, with a paddlefish from the Missouri River near Peterson said that mentality hasn’t Bismarck. Kasen Christiansen (bottom), Department seasonal employee at Lonetree WMA, helps plant changed any. a monarch mix on the WMA near Harvey. “So, let’s say we have an opening with the Department and we have X number of applicants. After interviewing, there is a two-way tie at the top of the ranking. One of those has a track record with us, is a rock star worker, and the other looks good on paper, but that’s all we know,” Peterson said. “Well, there is your tie- breaker.” Zach Kjos was hired as a wildlife tech- nician for the Department in Williston in 2018 after working as a seasonal for five years. “Working those five years was cer- tainly a plus for getting hired full-time,” he said. “The people who hired me had first-hand knowledge of my work ethic.” Anderson said agency managers don’t look at seasonal workers as simply that, but rather the next generation of Game and Fish Department employees. “When you get a good one, you want to keep them forever,” Anderson said. on the

RON WILSON is editor of North Dakota ASHLEY SALWEY OUTDOORS. land

July 2019 ND Outdoors 5 Delivering WildlifeDATA MIKE ANDERSON

Jeff Trzpuc is a rural mail carrier from Kathryn. Trzpuc has delivered mail for more than 20 years and has helped the Department with its survey during the course of his career.

6 ND Outdoors July 2019 By Ron Wilson

“The rural letter carriers of North Dakota have completed the April survey of upland game. Covering more than 40,000 miles the letter carriers furnish the State Game and Fish Department with a wealth of information on game conditions in every part of the state … In addition to the actual counts of birds requested, most of the rural letter carriers add letters and comments, which are greatly appreciated.” While those 60-plus words were published in North Dakota OUTDOORS more than 70 years ago, they remain relevant today as rural mail carriers continue to collect observa- tion data for the Game and Fish Department on several furbearer and upland game bird species. Stephanie Tucker, Department game management section leader, said the rural mail carriers collect data for Game and Fish four times per year. “Essentially, we’re asking them to simply record the number of live animals they see while they’re delivering mail,” Tucker said. “And they do this statewide for three mornings in a row.” Rural mail carriers across the state have volunteered their time to Game and Fish for decades (not all participate), provid- ing valuable insight into North Dakota’s wildlife from the front seat over thousands of miles of dusty backroads. Jeff Trzpuc, a rural mail carrier from Kathryn who travels about 115 miles per day, has delivered mail for more than 20 years and has participated in the surveys since the day “The rural letter carriers of he started. If it wanders near North Dakota’s backroads, Trzpuc has likely encountered it. North Dakota have completed “Pheasants, squirrels, skunks, coyotes, weasel, mink another upland game census. muskrats … I like watching the wildlife anyway, so I might These counts furnish a picture as well count what I see while I’m delivering the mail,” of upland game conditions Trzpuc said. that could not be so efficiently Tucker said the data collected would be impossible procured in any other way.” to come by without the help of the mail carriers, and it’s all done as part of normal routes, so there is no — North Dakota OUTDOORS 1948 additional costs to the U.S. Postal Service. “They collect great, amazing data for us on a statewide scale that logistically, or fiscally, we just wouldn’t be able to get other- wise,” she said. “We just don’t have the money or staff to do this level of a survey and collect this kind of great information.” Tucker said the observation data provides good trend indices, alerting wildlife biologists to the ups and downs of animal populations. “For furbearer species like coyotes and fox, for instance, we’ve done research to show that the survey data collected by rural mail carriers is very good data,” Tucker said, “and in some cases, it’s the only data we get for some furbearer species on a statewide level.” During any given year, rural mail carriers participating in the surveys are doing so on anywhere from 80 to 115 daily mail routes. That means anywhere between 35,000 to 45,000 miles are covered during a survey period. “The data the mail carriers provide is, once again, valuable, and their long-time cooperation with the Game and Fish Department doesn’t go unnoticed,” Tucker said.

RON WILSON is editor of North Dakota OUTDOORS. MIKE ANDERSON

July 2019 ND Outdoors 7 N orth Country rail NORTH DAKOTA’ST OPEN SECRET By Alicia Underlee Nelson

One of the longest trails in the nation starts in North Dakota. When completed, the North Country National Scenic Trail will span more than 4,600 miles (more than twice the length of the Appalachian Trail) between Lake Sakakawea State Park and Crown Point, New York on the western shore of Lake Champlain.

8 ND Outdoors July 2019 July 2019 Lonetree Wildlife Management Area near Harvey. A North National Country Scenic Trail signat ND Outdoors 9

ASHLEY SALWEY federal lawmakers passed legislation to extend the NCT across the border into Ver- mont, where it will connect with its more famous cousin, the Appalachian Trail. The NCT is already linked with the Lewis and Clark Trail, which begins in Seaside, Oregon. When all three trails are completed, it will be possible to walk across the country, from Oregon to Maine, then all the way down to Georgia. The high-profile Appala- chian Trail connection may prompt more people to start their own NCT journey. The trek eastward begins just steps from the ranger station in Lake

ASHLEY SALWEY Sakakawea State Park, where a family wearing daypacks Miles of the NCT (top) courses rests on a park bench. A large through prairie habitat at Lonetree But most North Dakota skiers, snowshoers and eques- sign emblazoned with the WMA. Segments of the trail residents have no idea that trians is hiding in plain sight, NCT’s blue triangle and eight- (bottom), this one through the Sheyenne National Grassland in such a storied path passes but that may soon change. pointed star crest proudly southeastern North Dakota, are right under their noses, attract- Just as the North Country Trail marks the western terminus. nicely signed and easy to find in ing outdoor lovers across is closing in on accomplishing It’s the first of thousands of North Dakota. the country in all seasons. its original 4,600-mile goal, markers and royal blue blazes The nonmotorized byway for another has appeared on the on signposts and trees that hikers, cyclists, cross-country horizon. In February 2019, thru-hikers will follow on their ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

10 ND Outdoors July 2019 journey across seven states. maintained walking path From its western terminus, through a forest. the NCT snakes across the Scott Peterson, North central part of North Dakota, Dakota Game and Fish following the New Rockford Department deputy director, and McClusky canals, passes was the Garrison Diversion by farm fields, vast stretches habitat biologist at Lonetree When completed, this scenic trail will span of prairie like Lonetree Wildlife Wildlife Management Area thousands of miles from Lake Sakakawea Management Area and the near Harvey back when the State Park to the western shore of Lake watchful eyes of water birds NCT was in its infancy. He Champlain in New York. in the marshes and wetlands, helped coordinate efforts ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON before descending into the to mark the trail through the back in 2003. The Dakota Dakota Prairie chapter (which lush, green Sheyenne River Lonetree prairie. Prairie Chapter was actually maintains just over 90 miles Valley in the southeast. “When I started attending established in about 2010.” of trail that stretches from the Laughter is often audible meetings with the National Like other NCT chapters eastern North Dakota bor- just around the bend at Fort Park Service and the NCT across the country, the North der, through the grasslands Ransom State Park, where a Association, there were sec- Dakota groups have a three- to the Fort Ransom State popular trailhead welcomes tions of the trail that were pronged mission – to build, Park boundary), hosts lively campers and day-hikers. certified by the National Park mark and connect new seg- pizza and hiking information As the NCT meanders east Service, but at that time it ments of the trail in their state, meetings at the Fargo Public through the Sheyenne was basically a vision or a maintain existing segments Library, an educational camp- National Grassland, the only concept,” he said. “The U.S. and promote awareness ing and hiking expo at local sounds are the whipping prai- Bureau of Reclamation part- about the trail to local hikers. Boy Scouts headquarters, and rie wind, soft lowing of gentle- ners with those two.” Although the local chapters offers photography and family eyed cows that keep watch The National Park Service serve as contacts and “trail hikes. Many first-time attend- from vast stretches of grazing and NCT Association oversee angels” who provide advice, ees had no idea the NCT land, the sharp metal clang maintenance and develop- water and transportation to existed. of gates designed to keep ment of the trail and help the handful of thru-hikers who “I wish more people knew the livestock contained, and facilitate the complex web of tackle the entire trail, most about it,” said Jerry Warner the flute-like call of Western partnerships between home- trail traffic is from local and of Fort Ransom. “I wish they meadowlarks. owners, businesses and state regional users. It’s a volunteer knew that the NCT is no more The trail crosses the Min- and national wildlife organiza- opportunity that has forged a than a few hours drive from nesota border just east of the tions. But much of the actual, tight-knit community. anywhere in the state and Fort Abercrombie State His- physical work of clearing, “I am very involved with much closer for most.” toric Site, passing the head- marking and maintaining the the Sheyenne River Valley Warner is an avid hiker, waters of the Mississippi River trail has fallen to a cheerful chapter that maintains about member and volunteer with in the Minnesota northwoods crew of volunteer members of 70 miles of NCT hiking trail the Sheyenne River Valley before ambling on past Wis- local NCT Association chap- from the Sheyenne State chapter since 2007. He has consin’s forests and waterfalls. ters around the country. They Forest near Fort Ransom to helped build and maintain It skirts the shores of Lake are among the trail’s fiercest the Griggs County line north the oldest portion of the NCT Superior and Lake Michigan, advocates. of Lake Ashtabula,” said Deb in North Dakota, a 4.4-mile and the sandstone cliffs of The vision for the NCT Koepplin, who has served as stretch that ushers hikers to Pictured Rocks National Lake- was drafted in the 1980s. But chapter president, member- the state’s only registered shore in Michigan. It traverses segments cleared by the NCT ship director and treasurer natural waterfall. rolling hills and quiet farmland Association chapters in North and attended 14 national “My baby is in the Shey- in Ohio and winds through Dakota – Sheyenne River Val- NCT conferences since the enne River State Forest,” state game lands and the ley and Dakota Prairie Asso- chapter’s inception. “I plan fun he said, exhibiting parental Allegheny National Forest in ciation – are much newer. hiking events as well as build, pride that seems to fuel North Pennsylvania and the Adiron- “North Dakota was one mow and maintain the actual Dakota volunteers of all ages. dacks in New York. of the last ones that started trail.” “There are forested areas as In some places, the NCT building the trail,” said Rennae Both North Dakota chapters you walk down into the draws is a footpath. In others, it’s Gruchalla, a charter member offer a steady stream of hikes along the Sheyenne River, a gravel road, a stretch of of the Dakota Prairie chapter. and networking opportunities then up onto hilltop tallgrass asphalt, a wide, mowed path “That started in the Sheyenne on Facebook and MeetUp. prairie areas, with beautiful through a sleepy state park River Valley group, which is com to reach individuals inter- views of the Sheyenne River campground or a neatly out of Valley City. That was ested in the outdoors. The Valley.”

July 2019 ND Outdoors 11 sister, Marisa, 10, has volun- The volunteer effort, which includes working teered 100 hours. Their father, hands of all ages, to maintain portions of the Chris Hoffarth, wears a long- NCT is North Dakota should be applauded. sleeved NCT shirt he received for 400 hours of volunteering. He slows his pace slightly as he tries to remember exactly how many hours he’s volun- teered. “At least 1,000,” he said as a final guess. Then he shrugs and turns his attention back to the trail ahead of him. Outdoor enthusiasts earn recognition for time spent hik- ing the trail as well. Hikers are awarded patches for com- pleting the trail in each state, finishing the entire trail and logging a certain number of

ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON miles on the trail. “The Hike 100 is a patch Warner has hiked his River Valley chapter’s annual plishments at a glance. that most members try for – favorite corner of North National Trails Day event “A lot of the shirts people that is hiking 100 miles on the Dakota since the mid-1990s. at Fort Ransom State Park are wearing detail their volun- NCT within a given year,” said But he fell into his work with looked like any other sum- teer hours,” Koepplin said. Gruchalla. “This was started in the NCT – quite literally – on mer gathering. Participants, On a cooler day, they’d be 2016 by NCTA, and it was so a hike to that same waterfall ranging in age from 10 to the wearing vests and jackets successful that they’ve had it trail. “don’t ask,” joined campers for awarded for volunteering as every year since.” “There were no boardwalks a ranger-led hike up into the well. Many North Dakota mem- on the stream crossings yet, hills, welcomed new hikers to “They’re brandishing their bers will finish the Dakota and one stream in particular a complimentary picnic, like accomplishments,” added Challenge this year. The was quite wide with the spring the ones they serve volun- Valley City resident Stephanie accomplishment honors snowmelt in progress,” he teers after work days, and Hoffarth with a grin. individuals who also complete said. “I opted to hop across paddled down the Sheyenne Hoffarth has logged 200 all 430 miles of trail in North the stream on some boulders, River in canoes and kayaks. hours of volunteer time – an Dakota within four years. but I slipped and fell. That slip But if you know what to look impressive total for anyone, but But just because many of prompted me to contact the for, you can read their accom- especially for a 14-year-old. Her the core members have hun- NCTA folks and tell them that I was OK with doing what it takes to get across the stream, but if they want others to use this trail that a bridge would be needed. Their reply was an invite to join them and that’s what I did.” And he hasn’t looked back. A hiker on the NCT in North Dakota Warner leads a volunteer pauses to take in a scenic view. program through his employer, Bobcat, that has resulted in over 110 volunteers donating more than 900 volunteer hours to the NCT since 2014. Most chapter members have stories like this, but they won’t say a word about them. To passersby, the Sheyenne ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

12 ND Outdoors July 2019 dreds of miles on their hiking get those. Also, just looking maps online on the northcoun- to know the trail, which is boots doesn’t mean that such on MeetUp or Facebook to trytrail.org website,” Koepplin important for future genera- a commitment is necessary. find our activities. And you can said. “You do not need to be tions, but it’s also about get- Chapter members go out of leave messages. Sometimes super fit or a fast hiker, as we ting people out into nature,” their way to welcome even the if you say, ‘I want to go hiking do it for fun mostly on week- Gruchalla said. “We always say most casual hikers. You don’t with somebody next Tuesday,’ ends on our local trail.” it’s a 4-foot wide and 4,600- even need to wait for a formal maybe somebody will have The North Country National mile long national park.” invitation. that Tuesday available and Scenic Trail’s most frequent “It also has the potential “Come to one of our want to go hiking with you.” users and staunchest advo- to benefit all,” Warner added. monthly hikes to experience The trails are relatively flat cates hike and volunteer for “Who needs a treadmill when it with a group so you can see and appropriate for all ages. different reasons. But they all you can go for a real walk or where it is more easily and No special skills or equip- share a fierce devotion to what run or cross-country ski or learn more about it,” said Gail ment, other than good walking they proudly consider “their” snowshoe? Hiking is not for Rogne, a charter member of shoes or hiking boots, are trail. They’ll continue the everyone. But our trail is.” the Dakota Prairie chapter (and needed. Group hikes are an painstaking work of clearing former chapter president) from especially gentle introduction. and maintaining the NCT, mile ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON, Kindred. “They can come and “The hikes are usually no by mile. They do it because West Fargo, is a freelance experience it for themselves, longer than 5-6 miles on mod- they love it. But they also do it writer who also blogs about too. There are brochures and erate trails, so it gives you a for the ones who will follow in outdoor recreation, travel if they come to our meetings start to have fun, meet people their footsteps. and food in North Dakota and or come to our hikes, they can and learn how to find our “It’s not only getting people beyond at prairiestylefile.com.

What Bring on a Day Hike Learn More The 10 essentials recommended by the American Hiking Society: Membership or volunteering are not required to 1. Appropriate footwear – Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or sneakers join a group hike. Anyone is welcome. are a must. Spray footwear with bug spray to guard against ticks before Dakota Prairie Chapter – northcountrytrail.org/ you head out. dpc 2. Daypack/Backpack – This doesn’t have to be high-tech, just sturdy Sheyenne River Valley Chapter – northcountry- enough to carry what you need and comfortable enough for a few hours trail.org/srv on the trail. Events – Facebook.com/NCTND 3. Maps and compass or GPS – Make sure phones and GPS devices are Meetup.com/NCTHikersinND charged and bring a portable phone charger. Carry a trail map so you’ll always have a backup on hand. 4. Plenty of water – Always bring more water than you think you’ll need and research spots where water is available along your route. 5. Extra food – Light, high-energy food sources like granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, trail mix and jerky are smart options. Pack more than you anticipate you’ll need in case you’re out longer than intended. 6. Rain Gear – Pack a lightweight hoodie or shirt to layer under a rain jacket. Wearing gaiters, a hat or hood, carrying a trekking umbrella and covering your daypack with a waterproof cover (or a trash bag, in a pinch) will keep you dry. Make sure the layer closest to your skin is a moisture wicking-fabric (not cotton). 7. Safety Items – Cover all your bases with a headlamp or flashlight in case you’re delayed on the trail, a whistle to signal your location if you become separated from your group and a source of fire so you can keep warm. 8. First Aid Kit – Pack antibiotic cream, bandages, gauze, medical tape and antibacterial wipes, as well as pain relievers and anti-diarrhea medicines. 9. Knife or multi-tool – Use a knife to cut cords, wood, bandages and tape or strike the knife to start a fire if needed. A multi-tool will contain twee- zers, a bottle opener and other useful items to remove splinters, prepare food, drinks and repair gear. 10. Sun protection – Apply sweat-proof sunscreen before you set out on the trail and bring plenty to reapply as you go. Wear sun protective clothing and bring a hat and sunglasses for extra protection. ASHLEY SALWEY

July 2019 ND Outdoors 13

Managing Fish and Angling Opportunities IN THE NORTHEAST

Story by Randy Hiltner Photos by Jim Job

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s northeast fisheries management district encompasses all or parts of 16 counties. Included are several large natural lakes, such as Devils Lake, Stump Lake and the Lake Irvine complex. Additionally, the district has about 55 smaller natural lakes and reservoirs, the latter of which makes up more than one-third of the total.

14 ND Outdoors July 2019 Anglers should take advantage of the various fish habitats in the northeast district for the diverse fishing opportunities that are provided.

Anglers fish from an accessible pier on South Golden Lake in Steele County.

July 2019 ND Outdoors 15 Although Devils Lake, Stump Lake and Lake couple of years, which, if flooded, provide spawn- Irvine get most of the fishing use in the north- ing habitat and escape cover for young fish, as east district, good fishing also exists in the much well as increased productivity of the water body. smaller lakes and reservoirs. This article focuses Conversely, stable or steadily declining water on the smaller natural lakes and reservoirs in levels reduce spawning habitat, escape cover and terms of how they differ in fish habitat, fish popula- productivity. These changes are more apparent tions and fish management; what fish manage- in natural lakes that typically have a more gradual ment challenges exist for natural lakes vs. reser- shoreline slope. voirs; and how fishing opportunities stack up for The “newer” natural lakes that experience ris- natural lakes and reservoirs. ing water levels provide optimum habitat condi- Some natural lakes could be described as “per- tions for walleye, perch and pike. The food chain manent” or “perpetual,” such as Lake Upsilon and explodes, starting with microscopic plankton, to Gravel Lake in the Turtle Mountains. This does not invertebrates, to forage fish. This type of system necessarily mean they continuously sustain fish can produce lots of game fish pounds per acre. Examples of these lakes in the northeast district include Hurdsfield-Tuffy Lake, Lake Coe, Goose Lake, Silver Lake WMA, Lake Addie and Lake Laretta. Many reservoirs in the district were constructed in the 1960s, so these are not “newer” waters. They were similar to a new natural lake in the first years after dam construction, as vegetation flooded for the first time. However, the fish habitat quickly degraded as runoff from cultivated watersheds deposited tons of topsoil in the reservoirs over time. Water clarity and the amount of aquatic habitat was reduced as sediments gradually filled in the res- ervoirs. Because dams are built on rivers or coulees, Red Willow Lake in life, but just that they rarely go dry. Other “newer” reservoirs tend to be long and narrow, creating a Griggs County. natural lakes were once shallow duck marshes, relatively steep shoreline. Steep contours provide but are now good fishing lakes, as water levels fewer acres of littoral (productive, shallow fish have risen dramatically because of wet conditions. habitat) areas, as compared to most natural lakes. In the northeast district, water levels in natural Since many reservoirs are connected to rivers, lakes tend to fluctuate widely compared to the they tend to have more problems with rough fish, reservoirs. In many cases, water levels can rise a such as white suckers, carp and bullheads, that lot in a natural lake before flowing out through a were present in the river before the dams were natural outlet. Whereas, reservoir water levels are built. Rough fish are well-adapted for survival in relatively stable because they can fill to full pool in many types of habitat and compete with game spring, and excess water flows over the spillway. fish for food and space in a lake or reservoir. Reservoirs often have huge watersheds that con- Rough fish can outcompete game fish in the turbid tribute large amounts of water and fill to full pool, waters until they comprise the majority of fish in a even if levels were down the previous fall. reservoir. Renwick Dam is an example where high Water level fluctuations are usually good for white sucker numbers are causing management game fish populations if they’re not so extreme. problems. Reason being, terrestrial vegetation often grows Fish management in “permanent” natural lakes on exposed shorelines over the course of a and reservoirs is more difficult than in a “newer”

16 ND Outdoors July 2019 natural lake because, in many cases, there are high densities of rough fish and/or stunted yellow perch. This is comparable to starting spring planting with a serious weed problem. Fewer desirable game fish will be pro- duced even with high stocking rates for many years. The presence of rough fish and stunted panfish reduces the game fish potential for that water, but does not eliminate it. Some decent walleye and pike are still found in many of these types of waters, just not as many as if there were fewer or no rough fish. Red Willow Lake, Wood Lake, Golden lakes and Lake Upsilon have either stunted panfish or bullhead issues, but are still decent walleye and/or pike fisheries. Mt. Carmel Dam and Whitman Dam have moderately high white sucker populations, but still periodically produce good game fish populations. Bisbee Dam is a rather rare reservoir in that there are few rough fish and, not surprisingly, game fish populations have been relatively good for many years even with the reservoir habitat limitations. The easiest lakes to manage are the “newer” natural overwinter fish, and if they remain free of rough fish, Lake Addie (top) lakes with rising lake levels. If there are waters that are they will usually provide some good, long-term fishing going to make a fisheries biologist look good, these are near Binford in opportunities for perch and walleye, but primarily Griggs County. it. In many cases, these lakes are teeming with food like walleye. Lake Coe, Lake Addie, Hurdsfield-Tuffy, Goose Anglers launch at fathead minnows and/or invertebrates such as fresh- Lake and Lake Laretta are good examples. boat (bottom) at water shrimp. Many do not have an existing rough fish However, what goes up, must come down. As water Larimore Dam in population, so fisheries managers are starting with a levels in these “newer” lakes consistently drop due to Grand Forks County. “weed free” plot for “planting.” drier conditions, game fish populations eventually suc- Walleye stocking in these lakes is usually very suc- cumb to winterkill. Fish management on these waters cessful, and high-density, fast-growing populations can will then be on hold until the next wet period replen- be established with relatively low stocking rates. Yellow ishes the water volume for sustained game fish survival. perch often do well when stocked into these lakes as Anglers currently have many fishing opportunities the only game fish species, but are definitely more hit in the northeast district. “Permanent” natural lakes, or miss than walleye. “newer” natural lakes and older reservoirs all contain In “newer” lakes, where both perch and walleye fishable numbers of game fish. For those anglers tar- exist, perch populations tend to decline over time geting walleye, the “newer” lakes have higher numbers because of predation from increasing walleye densities of keeper-sized fish. Anglers should take advantage of (and angler harvest in some cases). Goose Lake and the various fish habitats for the diverse fishing opportu- Hurdsfield-Tuffy Lake are good examples where this nities that they can provide. has occurred. Though there are exceptions, this com- monly occurs. RANDY HILTNER is the Game and Fish Department’s If these “newer” lakes are deep enough to northeast district fisheries supervisor in Devils Lake.

July 2019 ND Outdoors 17 18 NDOutdoors Lake Ashtabula Zebra Mussels Discovered in Department has confirmed the pres the has confirmed Department completely rid alake of rid zebra mus completely to method known no is there and were introduced into Lake Ashtabula, mussels small, sharp-shelled these Howellskiing. said it’s unknown how and camping fishing, swimming, ing, boat as such activities of outdoor avariety offers it and of Engineers, Corps Army U.S. by the operated is ous ageslake. the throughout populations of zebra mussels of vari Dakota, also found well-established North central east in counties Griggs on Sheyenne the River in Barnes and of Lake an impoundment Ashtabula, mussel, and subsequent inspections zebra adult an as it confirmed Howell species coordinator Jessica Howell. in to Game and Fish aquatic nuisance it turned and zebra mussel suspected Lake Ashtabula. in zebra mussels of invasive ence along the river. spots sites shore-fishing and popular lake at access posted be will Notices including water for transferring bait. river, lake and the away from water of movement the to prohibit effect in infested water. rules are Emergency Red River, IANS way to the Class as Sheyenne River all downstream the Lake and the classified Ashtabula, has andGame Fish Department uninfested waters.” to mussels of these spread the ming akey stem in lake plays role now this uses who “Everyone said. Howell spread,” their prevent to precautions aquatic nuisance species and to take of aware to be skiers and mers swim anglers, boaters, for is it tant sels. The North Dakota Game and Fish Fish and Dakota Game North The At acres, 5,200 Lake Ashtabula In June, an angler discovered a Because of this new finding, the the finding, new of this Because impor how shows situation “This B UFFALOBERRY By GregFreeman,DepartmentNewsEditor ------Dakota regulations designed to North said. Howell wildlife, native Dakotathreaten waters and North the nonnative aquatic species that shoreline rocks. on walking or wading, when feet their should protect Visitors be grasping. may hands their what see can’t they when object bing an underwater encrusted objects and grab when objects encrusted careful handling when mussel- should be so lake-goers objects, present.” be may that species mussels, aquatic but most nuisance zebra only of not spread the stop ofanother water. body This can help to fish live lake or water transfer don’t another lake,” Howell said. “Also, and before other equipment using lake-goers. unsuspecting traveloften by “hitchhiking” with spreading Howell ANS, said, as they 2015. in Red the in were discovered mussels water. zebra IANS Adult Class other Zebra mussels are just one of one just are mussels Zebra Zebra mussels attach to solid to solid attach mussels Zebra boats dry and “Always drain clean, way to avoid best the is Prevention state’s only the is Red River The Adult zebra mussel. - P every time it is used. is it time every ment is cleaned, drained and dried recommendsstrongly that all equip and Game the Fish Department tions, prevent the spread of ANS include: of ANS spread the prevent In addition to North Dakota regula to North addition In • • • • ATCH at home. bait of the dispose and container adry in place available, is station cleaning fish lake. no the If into or shore on bait unused to dump illegal is it that Remember bait. of unused to dispose Ashtabula aretions available around Lake lons or less. Fish cleaning sta in a container that holds 5gal holds that acontainer in transported be must bait areas, other lake. or all In river the from away water in transported be Infested waters, bait cannotANS I Class For bait. import not Do andopen during out transport. water, back leave hold and that devices and plugs Remove drain access. water the leaving before water all Drain Dakota. North into import not do and access water the leaving before Remove aquatic vegetation July 2019 - - - -

CRAIG BIHRLE • Clean – remove plants, animals, reproduce. A large female zebra from drawing water. Removing large and excessive mud prior to leav- mussel can produce 1 million eggs, numbers of zebra mussels to ensure ing a water access. and fertilized eggs develop into adequate water flow can be labor- • Drain – drain all water prior to microscopic veligers that are invisible intensive and costly. leaving a water access. to the naked eye. Veligers drift in the Zebra mussels are native to the • Dry – allow equipment to dry water for at least two weeks before Black and Caspian seas of western completely before using again or they settle out as young mussels, Asia and eastern , and were disinfect. which quickly grow to adult size and spread around the world in the bal- reproduce within a few months. For more information about aquatic last water of cargo ships. They were nuisance species in North Dakota, After settling, zebra mussels first discovered in the United States options for disinfection, or to report a develop byssal threads that attach in Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River possible ANS, visit https://gf.nd.gov/ their shells to submerged hard in 1988, and quickly spread through- ans. surfaces such as rocks, piers and flooded timber. They also attach to out the Great Lakes and other rivers About Zebra Mussels pipes, water intake structures, boat including the Mississippi, Illinois, Zebra mussels are dime-sized hulls, propellers and submerged Ohio, Tennessee, Arkansas and Hud- mollusks with striped, sharp-edged, parts of outboard motors. As popula- son. Moving water in boats and bait two-part shells. They can produce tions increase, they can clog intake buckets has been identified as a likely large populations in a short time pipes and prevent water treatment vector, as has importing used boat and do not require a host fish to and electrical generating plants lifts and docks.

Spring Pheasant Count Up from Last Year North Dakota’s spring pheasant of summer pheasant production and The number of pheasant crows population index is up slightly from what hunters might expect for a fall heard is compared to previous years’ the same time last year, according to pheasant population. data, providing a trend summary. the state Game and Fish Department’s “Barring significant storms or pro- 2019 spring crowing count survey. longed cold temperatures in June and R.J. Gross, Department upland July, we could be set for a good game management biologist, said the hatch,” Gross said. number of roosters heard crowing this Pheasant crowing spring was up about 6 percent state- counts are con- wide. The primary regions holding ducted each pheasants ranged from up 14 percent spring through- in the southeast and up 17 percent in out North the northwest, to down 8 percent in Dakota. the southwest. The count in the north- Observ- east, which is not a primary region for ers drive pheasants, was up 33 percent from specified last year. 20-mile “We are still seeing the effects of routes, the drought of 2017 that resulted in stop- low chick survival,” Gross said. “Typi- ping at ASHLEY SALWEY cally, a spring pheasant population is prede- composed primarily of yearling roost- termined ers with nearly as many 2-year-olds, inter- and currently we have very few 2-year- vals, and old roosters.” counting While the spring number is an indi- the number cator, Gross said it does not predict of pheasant what the fall population will look like. roosters heard Brood surveys, which begin in late crowing over a July and are completed by Septem- two-minute period Adult ring-necked ber, provide a much better estimate during the stop. rooster.

July 2019 ND Outdoors 19 20 NDOutdoors Spring Breeding Duck Numbers Tallied CRP Enrollment Open birds, up 20 percent from last year. last from 20 up percent birds, of 3.4 million index an showed May breeding duck conducted survey in 72nd annual springDepartment’s under continuous the Con practices is accepting for certain applications the 71-year average. 71-year the were above teal, blue-winged and tails except pin for species, All numbers. percent40 (pintails) above year’s last 5(scaup)to from ranged ducks other All (57 percent). ducks ruddy and cent) tealpercent), per (81 green-winged 2018 including estimates, mallards (16 species wereall up from primary their producing for many years.” we have been that of ducks number large to the attributed be again can spring Dakota this North in of ducks said. “The largeSzymanski number ally trend wetland with conditions,” term average. (1948-2018) long- the above percent 40 stands and record on 22nd highest the was index game bird supervisor,tory said the leader,section said landowners private land and Fish Department not offered. are rates rate. Incentive existing the of percent 90 at set rates rental soil with years, to 15 10 for are contracts CRP, enrollment. for open also is ofEnhancement Program, an offshoot restoration. and wetland riparian buffers strips, filter include waterways, grassed offices. their USDA local Agency Farm Service can signprivate landowners up at Program. Reserve servation Mike Szymanski, Department migra Mike Department Szymanski, Fish and Dakota Game North The of AgricultureThe U.S. Department The number of temporary andThe number of temporary indicate results Survey for numbers gener duck numbers “Breeding Kevin Dakota Kading, Game North signup enrollmentContinuous Reserve The Conservation eligiblefor enrollmentPractices and ranchers Eligible farmers, - - - - - counties they serve include:counties they serve said. land in biologist their area,” Kading aprivate contact can practices, these to add help can Fish and Game how and Fish. incentives and cost-share from Game for financial additional also qualify interested in these programs could tracts and the continual conversion of conversion continual the and tracts Conservation Reserve Program conConservation pressure,under extreme and expiring Dakota continues toNorth decline. remain, coverhabitat as nesting in northwest.” the in to good fair are but region, central north the into moving south and quickly east deteriorated “Excellent wetland conditions in the state,” said. Szymanski excellent across the ranged from poor to wetlands represented. of type the or wetlands of water contained in represent amount the does not necessarily basins water with and water index is based on up The percent. 46 spring water index is showas figures the year,higher last than was substantially wetlands seasonal Department land biologists and the land biologists Department “Anyone who’s interested in seeing • • • “Waterfowl breeding habitats are breeding“Waterfowl habitats said concernsSzymanski about “Water conditions Hettinger and Sioux counties. Hettinger Grant, –Adams, (701-260-3546) Dickinson – Jaden Honeyman Towner and Walsh counties. Rolette, Ramsey, Pembina, Cavalier, Nelson, Forks, Grand Bottineau, – (701-204-5227) Devils Lake – Andrew Ahrens ties). Kidder, and Olivercoun Morton 527-3764) – Burleigh, Emmons, (701- Jacobson –Levi Bismarck Dakota. ducks inNorth common breeding Shovelers are - - Szymanski said, though hunting suc said, hunting though Szymanski insight for into this fall, expectations and production of duck idea better state,” he added. in thereduce production waterfowl tohabitat other uses further can only the fallthe migration. seasons, and weather during patterns beforements and during hunting move by bird influenced also is cess • • • • • The July brood survey provides a provides survey brood July The counties. McKenzie, and Williams Mountrail –Burke, Divide, 770-3815) –Todd (701- Williston Buckley ties. Mercer, Renville and Ward coun McLean, – McHenry, Dunn, 8963) (701-527- Huber –Ryan Riverdale counties. Traill and Stutsman Steele, gent, McIntosh, Ransom,McIntosh, Richland, Sar Dickey, LaMoure, Logan, Griggs, Cass, –Barnes, (701-320-4695) Jamestown – Renae Schultz counties. Foster, Pierce, Sheridan and Wells – Benson,Eddy, (701-399-9958) Jr. –Terry Oswald, Harvey counties. Valley,Golden Slope and Stark 227-7431) Bowman, – Billings, (701- Francis –Curtis Dickinson July 2019 - - - -

CRAIG BIHRLE Traveling Boaters Take Note ofANSRegulations and dry equipment. equipment. and dry boaters are encouraged to clean, drain in compliance. to maketheir destination, sure they are aquatic nuisance species regulations of provinces, are reminded to check the or through or other states Canadian destination or route taken. highways or at lakes based on tions may required be along July 2019 In general, to ensure compliance, Mandatory boat inspec to traveling Dakota boaters North • Clean – remove animals plants, Crown Butte Dam suffered atotal winterkill. suffered Dam Crown Butte managers, fisheries County. According to are Department Morton in fisheries Both right. photo the on Lake the in Harmon from Dam bluegill adult stocked and Crown in Butte them sonnel trapped spring in per fisheries left, photo the on the In oversetbacks winter. depict. photographs these two what That’s suffered that to them waters lake one in transport and fish adult trap often staff fisheries Department Fish Dakota and Game season, North open-water the during opportunities fishing provide anglers To winterkill. Dakota to and often is kills of atoughThe these fallout fish winter North in combat help combatting winterkill - able at the following web addresses. addresses. web following the at able and provincial regulations is ANS avail More information on bordering state • • • Game, Fish and and Fish Dakota Game, South compartments open to open dry. compartments to leave remove excess and water necessary, use sponges or towels If present. is water standing any be in failed a neighboring if state completely, might as an inspection to dry equipment all –allow Dry bilges, livewells and bait buckets. –Drain drain all water, including rods. fishing as such hulls, motors and other equipment trailers, from excessive mud and - • • • • stopais/index.html gov.mb.ca/sd/waterstewardship/ able Development at http://www. of Sustain Manitoba Department species-prevention-program invasive-species/aquatic-invasive- health-and-safety/wildlife-issues/ ca/residents/environment-public- ment at http://www.saskatchewan. Saskatchewan Ministry of Environ Saskatchewan Ministry http://cleandraindry.mt.gov/ and Wildlife Fish, Parks atMontana mn.us/invasives/ais/index.html Resources at https://www.dnr.state. of Natural Minnesota Department Parks at sdleastwanted.com -

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY SALWEY ND Outdoors 21 - - Hunting Guide and Outfitter Exam 2018 WATCHABLE WILDLIFE Scheduled PHOTO CONTEST Plant and Insect Runner-up The next guide and outfitter written examination is Painted lady butterfly August 17 at 1 p.m. at the North Dakota Game and Fish Rich Barrios, Lincoln Department in Bismarck. The test is given periodically to anyone interested in becoming a hunting guide or outfit- ter in the state. In addition to passing a written exam, qualifications for becoming a guide include a background check for criminal and game and fish violations; certification in cardio- pulmonary resuscitation and standard first aid; and employment by or contract with a licensed hunting outfitter. Hunting outfitter eligibility requirements include the guide qualifications, as well as an individual must have held a hunting guide license for two years; and must have proof of liability insurance. Interested individuals are required to preregister by calling the Game and Fish Department’s enforcement office at 701-328-6604.

Photo Contest Deadlines in Fall Application Deadlines The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s Watchable Wildlife Photo Contest guidelines are the Hunters are reminded the pronghorn same as in previous years, but the process for submit- application deadline is August 7 and the ting photos has changed. deadline for swan permits is August 14. Photographers who want to submit photos to the contest will now go the Department’s website at Later that month, archery seasons for deer and gf.nd.gov/photo-contest. Then it is a matter of provid- pronghorn open on August 30, while the mountain lion ing some pertinent information about the photo and season opens on the same date. uploading it. The changes were put in place to help both with ease of submitting photos for the photographer and managing those images for Department staff. NORTH DAKOTA The contest is now open and the deadline for submitting photos is October 1. For more information or questions, contact Patrick Isakson, Department conservation biologist, at [email protected]. WEEKLY VIDEO NEWS BROADCAST The contest has categories for nongame and game WILLISTON GRAND FORKS species, as well as plants/insects. An overall winning KUMV - Saturday - 6 pm KVRR - Saturday - 9 pm KXMD - Sunday - 10 pm; photograph will be chosen, with the number of place Monday - Noon MINOT KMOT - Saturday - 6 pm winners in each category determined by the number KXMC - Sunday - 10 pm of qualified entries. Contestants are limited to no more than five entries. DICKINSON BISMARCK FARGO Photos must have been taken in North Dakota. KQCD - Saturday - 5 pm (MT) KFYR - Saturday - 6 pm KXMA - Sunday - 9 pm (MT) KXMB - Sunday - 10 pm KVRR - Sunday - 9 pm By submitting an entry, photographers grant per- CATV – Saturday - 9:30 am mission to Game and Fish to publish winning pho- ON tographs in North Dakota OUTDOORS, and on the TV Department’s website. 22 ND Outdoors July 2019 Fur EducationClass Harvester WMA Regulations Prohibit Fireworks, Camping for Restrictions Lifted Holiday Game andFish atState Fair July 2019 sponsoring a free 16-hour fur har asponsoring free 16-hour Program Education isFur Harvester reminds citizensDepartment pos that and useful informa exhibits activities, State Fair in Minot. the at 19-27 July Park Skills Outdoors and free to visitors Conservation its of thousands will host Department harvesting furbearers in North Dakota, in furbearers North harvesting tools and techniques foridentification, in Dakotas, fur the the trade furbearer or furbearers. hunting trapping in interested anyone for 8 a.m.-4 p.m. from 10 August and 5-9 p.m. 8 from 6and August class education vester other and offer opportunities, fishing provide and hunting life production, management area is to enhance wild ited. wildlife management areas is prohib state on of fireworks use or session State Fair Center. end of fairgrounds the near thenorth the on located is which Park, Skills and Outdoorsto the Conservation visitors greets personnel Department Fish and by Game staffed center tion informa An native prairie plantings. and exhibit display, furbearer fish a live area the offers learning opportunities, in each outdoorparticipate activity. wheretions interested and kids adults Trapping are major attrac and Archery Fishing, to Hunting, daily. Pathways 1-7 p.m. from open is park the as tion The North Dakota Cooperative Dakota Cooperative North The Fish and Dakota Game North The of to array an treated be will Visitors Fish and Dakota Game North The Students will learn the history of history the learn will Students of a wildlife objective The primary outdoorIn to addition hands-on ------objectives. these with compatible are that uses outdoor recreational and educational Department will lift the Tuesday- the will lift Department fireworks display is not compatible. are managed are encouraged, and a rupt intentions the of how these areas cation. edu fur then harvester link, education website at https://gf.nd.gov, click the Dakota and Game Fish Department North the to register, and visit details tion prior to purchasing a license. For by any educa requiring state trapper card recognizedissued a certification and boarding)fleshing of furbearers. as well as proper handling (skinning, Only activities that would not dis not would that activities Only In addition, the Game and Fish Fish and Game the addition, In Upon completion, graduates are - - - otherwise have this two-day restric two-day have this otherwise that WMAs 2-3 those on July camping week, which will allow overnight of holiday July upcomingthe Fourth for restriction Wednesday no-camping Fish website, gf.nd.gov. tions is available on the Game and place. in tion A complete list of the WMA regula WMA of the list A complete in Minot. Outdoors Skills Park Conservation and the Department’s Kids inactionat ND Outdoors 23 - -

CRAIG BIHRLE SHOOTING CLAYS The North Dakota State High School Clay Target League state championship was held in June at The Shooting Park in Horace. The Game and Fish Department is an active supporter of the program, providing grants to help the teams get started through its Encouraging Tomorrow’s Hunters grant program, as well as supporting the state tournament. Top three individual varsity and team results follow: Class 1A Boys – Kordell Kraft, Class 2A Boys – Lathan Rugby High School, 100; Blaine Stroklund, South Prairie High Howard, Century High School, School, 98; Isaac Piseno, Red 98; and Daniel Murray, Shiloh River High School, 97; and Christian School, 97. Blake Didier, Valley City High Class 1A Girls – Kyla Radom- School, 96. ski, Rugby High School, 96; Class 2A Girls – Cassidy Lipelt, Evie Janosek, Thompson High Legacy High School, 95; Emma School, 90; and Piper Suhr, Jordet, Red River High School, Barnes County North High 90; and Jenna Thompson, School, 88. Mandan High School, 89. Class 1A Team – Rugby High Class 2A Team – Sheyenne School, first place; West Fargo High School, first place; South High School, second place; Prairie High School, second and Century High School, place; and Red River High third place. School, third place. ASHLEY SALWEY

24 ND Outdoors July 2019 By Ron Wilson

Off and on since the early 2000s, bird- tidal estuaries, mudflats, flooded fields The four or so olive-buff eggs are ers have driven North Dakota backroads and beaches where the birds spend often easy targets for coyotes, badgers in spring in search of long-billed curlews. winter. and other predators. And, considering The process is simple. Volunteers drive “It’s not uncommon to find curlews where the shallow nests are located, it’s 20-mile survey routes, stop forty times, nesting near cow pies or near rocks, not unheard of for livestock to step on the get out of their vehicles and look and which likely helps to camouflage them eggs. listen for five minutes for birds. because they are nesting in the middle of But let’s say the adults, a pair of birds Finding what is North America’s largest nowhere,” Johnson said. that share incubation duties, successfully shorebird (21-26 inches long) that sports Coordinating the curlew surveys in safeguard the eggs until hatching. an incredibly long, down-turned bill, and southwestern North Dakota is Cheryl Congrats. that loudly and proudly sort of sings Mandich with the American Bird Con- But now the curlew young must contest its own name (a sharp curleee), isn’t so servancy. Mandich said that while the the heat, disease, aerial and ground simple. long-billed curlew is a species of concern predators for roughly five weeks until Like bighorn sheep, pronghorns and in North Dakota, bird numbers are also they fledge or learn to fly. And to further sage grouse, North Dakota is the eastern declining elsewhere on the northern complicate things, only one adult, the edge of the long-billed curlew’s range . male, has stuck around to run interference and there just aren’t many of them in the state during the nesting season. “While volunteers are seeing more birds this year than last, there are some routes, places where we have habitat, that we just haven’t seen any birds,” said Sandra Johnson, North Dakota Game and Fish Department conservation biologist. While volunteer birders and wildlife biologists know where to look for these conspicuous birds that have flown count- less miles north from wintering grounds to nest, it’s not a given for many of us. Knowing that long-billed curlews are members of one of five families of shore- birds, a good bet would be to at least look near water. Good luck with that. Turns out, this brownish bird blessed with such a long bill for probing deep into mud and sand in warmer climates for aquatic invertebrates, nests in upland grass cover, pastures grazed by cattle and

the occasional stubble field. Long -billed curlew SANDRA JOHNSON “While we get the occasional sighting elsewhere, the key counties for where “We don’t want it to get to the point until the birds successfully flap their these birds nest in the state are Slope, where you run the risk of losing them,” wings. Bowman, Billings, Stark and Golden Val- Mandich said. It’s a tough road that’s playing out now ley,” Johnson said. “If you want to see When you consider the deadly reali- in tough country. long-billed curlews, you have to go to ties of successfully raising young on the southwestern North Dakota.” prairie and pastures, it’s a wonder any RON WILSON is editor of North Which is a far and unusual cry from the survive. Dakota OUTDOORS.

July 2019 ND Outdoors 25 By Ron Wilson

“A bald eagle nest in North Dakota … pair of bald eagles definitely was nest- Red and Little Missouri rivers or in the could it be true?” ing – high up in a cottonwood tree,” Pembina Hills and Turtle Mountains, as AEd Bry, former Look editor of North Dakota Bry reported. “AfterBack a long wait, I finally well as the Missouri River, could hide OUTDOORS and game warden before saw a young eagle stand up in the nest. other nest sites, but I feel it is doubtful that, wrote those words in the magazine It was quite small … On July 7, I again more are here,” Bry wrote 44 years ago. in August 1975. returned to the nest site. I was worried “There is a good chance we can look His excitement and doubt were cer- that a severe storm may have dislodged forward to more bald eagle nests in the tainly honest because it had been many the nest or the young eagle but was state in future years.” years since an active bald eagle nest relieved to find the youngster well and Bry was right. had been reported in North Dakota. growing.” According to Sandra Johnson, Game “District game warden Floyd Chrest Finding an active bald eagle nest and Fish Department conservation biol- gave me information on a nest in late in North Dakota in 1975, and years to ogist, bald eagles were removed from May and I had no reason to doubt follow, was a big deal. According to the endangered species list in 2007, and him, yet I couldn’t help being skeptical the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the today there are more than 270 active because after working with wildlife in Secretary of Interior in 1967 listed bald nests in North Dakota. North Dakota for 25 years, I had never eagles south of the 40th parallel under “I bet we could be pushing 300 today, seen an active bald eagle nest,” Bry the Endangered Species Preservation but there are just so many that are wrote. Act of 1966. showing up in tree rows in the middle of Bry was in no hurry to check the Following enactment of the Endan- crop fields that just don’t get reported,” report on the nest that was located gered Species Act of 1973, the Service she said. somewhere in McLean County near the listed the species in 1978 as endan- Of note, Johnson said there were just Missouri River, understanding that there gered throughout the lower 48 states, 12 active nests in North Dakota in 2002 was plenty of time because the young except in Michigan, Minnesota, Oregon, when she started working for Game and wouldn’t be in a hurry to leave the nest. Washington, and Wisconsin where it was Fish. “On June 13, I stopped at the land- designated as threatened. owner’s home and was taken to the “Possibly there are other bald eagles RON WILSON is editor of North Dakota nest site. I was not disappointed – a nesting in the state. Timber along the OUTDOORS.