California Waterfowl Magazine

Transcription

California Waterfowl Association
4630 Northgate Blvd., Suite 150
Sacramento, CA 95834
change service requested
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage Paid
Sacramento, CA
Permit No. 507
WOOD DUCK
PROGRAM REPORT
E-COLLARS FOR 2012
A Tribute to Volunteers
GIVING THANKS,
GIVING BACK
SPRING 2012
Now you’re both
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and whiten teeth
©2011 Cargill, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.
The Migration
Has Started...
Migration Edition Mallards
FLOCKED HEAD AND TAIL . FOAM FILLED BODY . LIFELIKE REALISM
www.tanglefree.com
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Glenn Rollins, Chair ∙ Joe Fleskes ∙ Yancey Forest-Knowles ∙
Dean Kwasny ∙ Peter Ottesen ∙ Erik Bergren, Communications
and Operations Manager ∙ Courtney Ashe, Editor
SPRING 2012 • VOLUME 39, ISSUE 1
ADMINISTRATION
John Carlson, Jr., President
Colby Heaton, Chief Financial Officer
Jake Messerli, VP Waterfowl, Wetlands, & Heritage Programs
Mark Hennelly, VP Legislative Affairs & Public Policy
Scott Mueller, VP Fund & Membership Development
Sylvia Done, Associate VP Fund & Membership Development
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Yancey Forest Knowles, Chair
Greg Daniel, Vice Chair
Jim Provenzano, Treasurer
Tom Tolliver, Secretary
Bill Wright, District 1 Director
David Honeyman, Jr., District 2 Director
Jim Waters, District 3 Director
Craig Grilione, District 4 Director
Mike Eberhard, District 5 Director
Ryan Broddrick, Director
Randall Brown, Director
Tracey Fremd, Director
Jay Goble, Director
Terry Holberton, III, Director
Bill Quinn, Director
PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
2009 - 11 Bill Wright
2007 - 09 Rick Timmer
2005 - 07 Stuart Hanson
2002 - 05 Rob Plath
2001 - 02 George Kammerer, III
1999 - 01 Bob Bell
1997 - 99 Victor Gonella
1995 - 97 Jim Callender
1993 - 95 Zane Vorhes
1991 - 93 Bill Quinn
1989 - 91 Tim Egan
1985 - 88 Leland Lehman
1983 - 85 Dr. Jim Tanous
1981 - 83 Bill Ready
1978 - 81 Ray Lewis
1974 - 78 Pat Gilligan
1971 - 74 Joe Long
1960 - 71 Dr. Jow Sweet
1945 - 60 Carl Wente
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL SPRING 2012
DOME Printing: Design, Production, & Printing ∙ Printed on recycled
paper. Advertising rates are available by calling (916) 648-1406.
4
California Waterfowl Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization. Our tax identification number is 941149574.
California Waterfowl is published quarterly by California Waterfowl as a membership benefit. Annual membership is $25,
which includes $4 for the magazine.
California Waterfowl has the exclusive responsibility to determine whether any article or advertisement is, or is not, published
in the magazine. Statements and opinions expressed herein are
those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent
the views of California Waterfowl. Likewise, the appearance
of advertisers or their identification as members of California
Waterfowl does not constitute an endorsement of the products
or services featured.
©2011 by California Waterfowl Association. All rights reserved.
No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without
express written permission from California Waterfowl Association.
California Waterfowl Association
4630 Northgate Blvd., Suite 150
Sacramento, CA 95834
www.calwaterfowl.org
(916) 648-1406
cwa@calwaterfowl.org
FEATURES
20
GIVING BACK
28
PASS IT ON
Volunteers share why they give back to the
heritage that has given them so much
Why We Need Hunter Education Instructors
(And Why You Are Perfect for the Job!)
by Courtney Ashe, Editor
33
WOOD DUCK REPORT
44
ELECTRONIC COLLARS
2011 Production, News, Volunteers,
and Photos
Avoid the Most Common Mistakes
by Jan Burkholder, Stonewall Retrievers
ON THE COVER
Jerry Harris of Dallas, Oregon, carved the drake
wood duck featured on the cover, which was selected
as California Waterfowl’s Decoy of the Year. Replicas
of Harris’ decoy will be available exclusively at
California Waterfowl events this year. The cover shot
was taken by Double Shot Photography, specializing
in wedding, portrait, and event photography. Contact
them at www.doublshotphotography.net.
BACKGROUND PHOTO | Mike Sorsky of Lame Duck Images
IN THIS ISSUE
IN EVERY ISSUE
11 2012 PROJECT OUTLOOK
06 PRESIDENT’S REPORT
18 MARK HENNELLY NAMED VICE PRESIDENT
07 CHAIR’S MESSAGE
19 HERITAGE PROGRAM PARTNERS
08 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
28 WATERFOWLERS HALL OF FAME
30 NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES
41 ARTEMIS AWARD
42 5 QUESTIONS WITH CHUCK BONHAM
08 IN BRIEF
14 PUBLIC POLICY
16 COHA UPDATE
44 CANINE CORNER
43 TULARE BASIN PARTNERSHIP
51 MEMBER PHOTO
46 E-COLLAR GEAR GUIDE
52 IN MEMORIAM
48 AVIAN GRADUATION
53 HUNTERS CLASSIFIED
56 CORPORATE PARTNER WELCOME
58 EVENT CALENDAR & TRACKS
57 CREATIVE GIVING
62 DINNER DONORS
64 MEMBER SCRAPBOOK
66 MY FIRST HUNT
24 WOUNDED WARRIORS
5
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
PRESIDENT’S
REPORT
Shaping Our Future
by JOHN CARLSON, JR. PRESIDENT
During this past hunting season I had
the opportunity to hunt on several public
and private areas, and along the way I
met all types of hunters both young and
old. I was happy to see that many dads
and granddads were bringing out young
hunters. Our future depends on it, and it
is always great to see our youth learning
about our hunting heritage.
One of my fondest memories from last
season was sharing a duck blind with an
85-year old gentleman. His shooting
skills were very solid, and his sense of
humor made a great morning even better!
And I will never forget a valuable piece of
shooting advice he gave me that morning:
“Don’t forget to keep the wood on the
wood.” At first I was dumbfounded, but a
moment later I figured it out.
populations, wetland habitats, and
hunting opportunities. Look to these
articles for information and updates
that will help shape our waterfowl and
hunting future: Waterfowl and Wetlands
Project Outlook (page 11); New Year,
New Opportunities (page 30); Hunter
Education Instructors (page 28); and
Five Questions with New DFG Director
Chuck Bonham (page 42).
In the upcoming months, California
Waterfowl staff and board members
will be working on a new strategic plan
to help better focus and communicate
our efforts as we move forward over the
next several years. Our foundation will
continue to be enhancing waterfowl
populations and wetland habitats,
protecting our hunting heritage and
I will never forget a valuable piece of shooting advice he gave
me: “Don’t forget to keep the wood on the wood.”
What it means is: Keep the wooden gun
stock on your “wooden” head. I did not
consider this an insult but rather a funny
way to remember to not raise my head
off the gun stock when I am shooting.
6
Lately, it has occurred to me that
keeping the wood on the wood is a great
way to focus our California Waterfowl
priorities for the future. Whenever a
hunting season is coming to a close, I
take time to reflect on what next year’s
season might bring. Looking forward
five, 10, even 50 years and imagining
what duck hunting might be like in
California is a frequent activity for me
and many of my fellow hunters, too.
As you will see in this issue, California
Waterfowl is always looking forward
with the intent to better waterfowl
opportunities, and educating youth
and adults about the exciting world of
waterfowl, wetlands, and hunting.
We welcome suggestions and recommendations
on ways for us to be more efficient at getting
our important work accomplished, so
feel free to drop me an email at jcarlson@
calwaterfowl.org, or give me a call at (916)
648-1406. We know that without our
members’ and supporters’ help, we could
not keep the wood on the wood and shape
our future!
Have a great spring,
John Carlson, Jr.
President
CHAIR’S MESSAGE
CHAIR’S
MESSAGE
The Importance and Value
of Membership
by YANCEY FOREST-KNOWLES, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
PHOTO BY DALE SPARTAS
More than 1,500 volunteers work tirelessly on behalf of
California Waterfowl for wetland and waterfowl conservation
and our hunting heritage. These dedicated enthusiasts work in
many different areas. They provide time, energy, and financial
support for our organization and encourage more of our
members to get involved.
The volunteer ethic is the backbone of any nonprofit organization
like ours, and the caliber of our volunteers dictates the caliber of
our organization. We often groom our volunteers to assume key
positions. In this way, several volunteers have stepped forward
over time to become involved as board directors of the association.
I became involved through working with the Marin Dinner
Committee. In so doing, I made some lifelong friends and saw
firsthand the importance and value of volunteering.
There are California Waterfowl events virtually every week
throughout the state and thus, opportunities to become
involved as volunteers. These include:
FUNDRAISING
These committees are not only economically essential to California
Waterfowl, but their members are the main representatives
interacting and working with our general membership. California
Waterfowl will host 104 grassroots fundraising dinners this year to
help finance our many programs. More than 700 volunteers plan and
host our events, which yield 90 percent of our membership renewal
and growth. I can’t emphasize strongly enough how important our
volunteers are to the success of these essential fundraisers. Joining
an event committee is a very positive and helpful way to begin as a
California Waterfowl volunteer.
YOUTH & EDUCATION
California Waterfowl programs are highly effective in helping youth
become lifelong conservationists and hunters. There are several
programs offering a variety of volunteer options. Among these are
one-day and multiple-day camps focusing on hunter education and
license certification, outdoor skill development, and junior hunts.
PUBLICATION
Staff works with our volunteer Editorial Committee in preparing
the California Waterfowl magazine four times annually. Volunteer
authors and photographers who offer their talents are also essential
to creating every issue.
WATERFOWL & WETLANDS
Opportunities to volunteer in this area range from banding ducks and
collecting waterfowl eggs to public hunt area brush up days. Volunteers can
also participate in forming recommendations for waterfowl regulations
and seasons to the Fish and Game Commission. In addition, some 500
volunteers are the cornerstone of the nation’s most successful Wood Duck
Program, maintaining and monitoring nest boxes for the species.
LANDOWNERS
Many wetland and duck club owners and managers, as well as
ranchers and farmers, have made a voluntary, personal economic
commitment and serve as the primary stewards of California’s private
wintering, nesting, and brood habitat. These individuals and groups
are critical to California’s conservation efforts and hunting heritage.
Anyone can volunteer, no matter what their background, experience,
or time availability. Success is not the result of an individual, but the
hard work of many volunteers and staff working together to ensure
a successful future for California Waterfowl. If your time is limited,
please consider upgrading your membership to further support
California Waterfowl’s conservation activities. You may also have the
ability to financially support a particular program of interest through
a direct donation or estate plan. Others donate hunts, vehicles, or
needed equipment.
Every dollar and every hour volunteered is an investment in
California Waterfowl’s conservation efforts for wetlands, waterfowl,
and hunting heritage.
California Waterfowl is unique among wildlife conservation
organizations because of the level of volunteer involvement.
Volunteers are the heart and soul of our success, and we
would not be where we are today without their efforts. This
involvement exists at all levels, from California Waterfowl’s
all-volunteer Board of Directors, which establishes policy and
direction for the association, to our volunteer event and dinner
committees, who raise a large portion of California Waterfowl’s
revenue. Volunteers give us our strength and character and are
much of the reason that we are still growing after 67 years.
7
IN BRIEF / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
IN BRIEF
USFWS STUDY SHOWS WETLANDS ARE
STILL DECLINING
According to a US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
study, the acreage of America’s wetlands continued to
decline from 2004-2009. The net wetland loss was
estimated to be 62,300 acres, an area equal to half a million
football fields per year, reducing the nation’s total wetland acreage
to just over 110 million acres in the continental US. The rate of gains
from reestablishment of wetlands increased by 17 percent from the previous
study period (1998 to 2004), but the wetland loss rate increased 140 percent
during the same time period. As a consequence, national wetland losses have
Figure 49. This study found particular regions of the conterminous United States experienced different rates of wetland loss
outpaced gains. Forested and coastal wetlands suffered
the most
substantial
lossesillustrated on the map experienced the highest rate of freshwater wetland loss to upland
depending
on many
factors. The regions
between 2004 and 2009. (This examination was based on geospatial analysis of data from this study. There may be no statistical
during the five-year period. The reasons behind these losses
complex
and reflect
>>ThisShaded
areaswas
of intended
the mapto illustrate
experienced
the highest
rateofof
relevanceare
attached
to any region(s)
depicted.) NOTE:
information
the observed
incidence
wetland loss rates by generalized region. It should not minimize the importance of other wetland loss or gain actions that
a variety of factors including the weakening of landhigher
use
regulations,
economic
freshwater
wetland
loss
from
2004-2009.
Part
of
California
suffered
occurred elsewhere.
conditions, and the impacts of the 2005 hurricane season on the Gulf Coast.
notable loss of freshwater wetland acreage. | MAP BY USFWS
Figure 50 illustrates the extent
of cumulative wetland losses in a
rapidly developing area from 1998
to 2009. Hydrologic fragmentation
(Figure 51) influences how wetlands
function as landscape components
and may require re-evaluation of
wetland protection, conservation,
mitigation, and reestablishment
programs in specific watersheds
or physiographic settings. In these
instances, previously employed
wetland management techniques
are no longer appropriate because
they do not account for collective
influences on the ecosystem
(Euliss et al. 2008). Evaluating
the consequences of multiple
disturbances or cumulative impacts
on wetlands in watersheds or
broader landscape level systems
is something that has required
additional consideration for some
time (Bedford and Preston 1988).
2012-2013 FEDERAL DUCK STAMP SELECTED
>> Joseph Hautman created this year’s winning image for the Federal Duck Stamp
Joseph Hautman, an artist from Plymouth, Minnesota, won
the 2011 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest. This is his fourth
Federal Duck Stamp win. Hautman’s acrylic painting of a
single wood duck will be made into the 2012-2013 Federal
Duck Stamp, which will go on sale in late June. This year,
the competition’s five-judge panel included Gary Kramer,
a California native and California Waterfowl contributor.
The Federal Duck Stamp raises about $25 million each year,
providing funds critical for the conservation of wetlands.
tac11-0632_fig49
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
8
>> We want to hear from you! Send
your comments to: Letters to the
Editor, 4630 Northgate Blvd., Suite
150, Sacramento, CA 95834. Or, email
cashe@clawaterfowl.org with “Letters to
the Editor” in the subject line. Letters are
edited for length before publication.
69
BOOKWORM
I have enjoyed the articles from They Came to Shoot [printed as part of Frank Hall’s A
Look Back column]. Hopefully I will find this excellent book under the Christmas tree.
— Craig Moreno, Fairfield, CA
WARM RECEPTION
Congratulations on the new and fresh look of California Waterfowl magazine. Thank
you for all the hard work you and your staff have invested in the winter 2011 issue.
Thank you in advance for your time and effort moving forward.
— Dominic Taddeucci, Salinas, CA
Join California Waterfowl at California Duck Days! This
family-oriented festival takes place from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on
Saturday, February 25, at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area in Davis.
There will be an exhibit hall with interactive displays and live
ducklings and raptors. Kids are invited to fish for trout or enjoy
a large mobile aquarium filled with local species. There are also
fieldtrips and workshops including waterfowl identification,
wood duck box building, and a falcon demonstration.
Admission is $20 per person. Field trips may have additional
fees. Children under 16 are free when accompanied by an adult.
All participants are encouraged to preregister due to limited space
on field trips. For a complete schedule of events and to register,
visit www.yolobasin.org or call (530) 757-3780.
— Provided by the Yolo Basin Foundation
MEETING OF MEMBERS
IN BRIEF
DUCK DAYS
Notice is hereby given that a Membership Meeting of
the California Waterfowl Association will be held at
9:00 am on Saturday, March 10, 2012, at the Woodlake
Hotel (formerly the Radisson Hotel) 500 Leisure Lane,
Sacramento, CA 95815, for the purpose of electing
directors and conducting such other business as may
come before the membership.
The California Waterfowl Bylaws require a minimum
number of members present or proxies to constitute
a quorum. Members who are unable to attend the
meeting are requested to vote by proxy. If you will not
be attending to vote in person, please sign and return
your proxy by March 7, 2012. This proxy will not be
used if you attend the meeting and vote in person.
ANNUAL TAXIDERMY SHOW
Once again, taxidermists from around the country are
preparing to migrate to California. The annual California
Association of Taxidermists (CAT) show and competition
brings in an average of 100 taxidermists each year, showcasing
over 200 pieces of wildlife art.
The public is welcome to view the displays on Saturday, March
10, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday March 11 (when
all the awards will be posted), from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the
Double Tree Hotel in Sacramento. Admission is $5. For more
information about CAT and the upcoming show, visit www.
caltaxidermy.net. CAT and its members would like to welcome
all California Waterfowl members to join us in Sacramento!
— Provided by the California Association of Taxidermists
WAYS TO OBTAIN A PROXY:
• Vote online or download at www.calwaterfowl.org
• Request a copy via email from cwa@calwaterfowl.org
• Request a copy be mailed or faxed; (916) 648-1406 x126
Return your proxy by March 7, 2012, and you will be entered
in the drawing to win this pintail decoy replica, exclusive to
California Waterfowl.
DISCOUNTED SAFFLOWER SEED AVAILABLE
LAST CHANCE!
PHOTO BY DAVE MENKE, USFWS
Don’t forget to submit your
photos for the Take Your Best
Shot Member Photo Contest.
The deadline is March 15.
Logon to www.calwaterfowl.org
for entry rules and instructions.
It’s nearly time to plant food plots
for the fall dove season. Plant your
cover crop before the first rain!
Contact California Waterfowl
headquarters at (916) 648-1406
for more information.
Consult your conservation easement
and federal regulations for potential
planting restrictions.
9
2012 WATERFOWL
PROJECT OUTLOOK
by DAN LOUGHMAN WATERFOWL PROGRAMS SUPERVISOR
>> Project Partners: Department of Fish and Game | DFG
Ecosystem Restoration Program (CAL-FED) | Suisun Resource
Conservation District | Tuscany Research Institute | UC Davis |
US Fish and Wildlife Service | US Geological Survey | Wildlife
Conservation Board | Many Private Partners and Donors.
PINTAIL BANDING | California Waterfowl crews will initiate post-season pintail band- CALIFORNIA BREEDING WATERFOWL
ing in February within selected sites in the Central Valley. The crews will follow migrating POPULATION SURVEY | Surveys are flown
pintail north into the Klamath Basin during March. Our goal is to capture and band 1,000
pintail before their final departure to northern breeding grounds. Pre-season banding will
commence in September when the birds arrive on their fall migration into Sacramento Valley. Project Locations: Suisun Marsh, Yolo Wildlife Area (WA), Sacramento National
Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex, Upper Butte Basin WA, Gray Lodge WA, Tule Lake
NWR, Lower Klamath NWR, Private Properties
RICE COVER-CROP ROTATION PILOT PROGRAM | This program benefits ground nesting birds, giant garter snakes, and other wetland-dependant species through a combination
of altered crop rotations to produce upland nesting cover and semi-permanent wetlands
for waterfowl and snake refuge, rearing, and foraging habitat. Results from California Waterfowl monitoring have indicated an intense response by nesting waterfowl to the planted
cover-crop fields (especially in the Butte Basin). Project Locations: Private properties in the
north Sacramento Valley
MALLARD BANDING | Pre-season mallard banding will take place July through August.
The primary goal of this program is to mark a suitable number of mallards to provide information on harvest rate, survival rate, and harvest distribution in support of the Western
Mallard Model. This model establishes annual duck hunting frameworks for the Pacific Flyway. Project Locations: Upper Butte Basin WA, Gray Lodge WA, Yolo WA, Conaway
Ranch, Grizzly Island WA, Mandeville Island, Private Wetlands
in late April (Central Valley) and mid-May
(northeastern California) each year. California Waterfowl assists DFG by flying a subset
of transects in a slow-moving helicopter to
establish a “ground truth” for the survey. This
ground truth, or visibility correction factor, is
then used in the state’s breeding population
survey analysis. Project Locations: Throughout the Central Valley, Suisun Marsh, Delta,
east and west Valley transition zones, and
northeastern California
WATERFOWL PRODUCTION SURVEYS |
Approximately 600 acres of upland habitat
were restored on Grizzly Island WA in 2009.
California Waterfowl and partners have been
monitoring nesting waterfowl response to upland manipulations for the past two breeding
seasons. Production surveys and upland vegetation monitoring will continue during the 2012
season. Project Location: Grizzly Island WA
>> PHOTOS BY MIKE PETERS
11
WETLANDS
PROJECT OUTLOOK
California Waterfowl regional biologists are preparing for another busy field season.
Partnered with state and federal agencies, as well as private companies and landowners,
California Waterfowl will impact more than 17,000 acres of waterfowl habitat through
planned restoration and enhancement projects, as well as develop new grant proposals
to continue conserving waterfowl habitats in the years to come. Thanks to our
members for your continued support of our wetland conservation efforts.
>> Project Partners: Army Corps of Engineers | California Duck Stamp Program
| Department of Fish and Game | Natural Resources Conservation Service |
North American Wetlands Conservation Act | Pacific Gas and Electric | Solano
County | Upland Game Bird Program | US Fish and Wildlife Service |
Wetland Reserve Program | Wildlife Conservation Board
1
NORTHEASTERN CALIFORNIA
Project Locations: Modoc National Wildlife Refuge
(NWR), McArthur Swamp, 10 Private Properties
Acres Affected: 3,000
Wetland enhancement and restoration projects will concentrate
on improving waterfowl spring staging habitat, upland nesting
cover, wet meadow habitat, and seasonal wetland acreage.
Activities will take place at the PG&E-owned McArthur
Swamp, throughout the Pit River watershed, Modoc NWR,
and various private properties. Efforts are currently underway
to submit a second phase grant proposal for wetland projects
in the region, worth over $1 million.
Regional Biologist: Greg Heydeman
2
SACRAMENTO VALLEY
Project Locations: Gray Lodge Wildlife Area (WA),
Upper Butte Basin WA, Sacramento NWR, Delevan NWR,
Colusa NWR, and 8 Private Clubs
The Gray Lodge and Upper Butte Basin projects (including
Little Dry Creek, Howard Slough, and Llano Seco units) will
concentrate on increasing waterfowl production and upland
nesting cover while also increasing management capabilities for
feed production in the hunt areas. The federal refuge projects
will improve the infrastructure, including levees and islands,
while improving water movement across these wetland units.
The private projects will be accomplishing similar types of
improvements while making the properties more water efficient
and improving diversity within the wetland and upland units.
Regional Biologist: Chadd Santerre
3
YOLO BYPASS AND DELTA
Project Locations: Yolo Bypass
WA and 2 Private Properties
Projects will focus on enhancing nesting
grounds and wintering habitat as well as
the restoration of brood ponds and other
waterfowl habitat. An additional milliongrant proposal has been submitted for
the Yolo/Delta region, and California
Waterfowl is awaiting the funding status.
Regional Biologist: Paul Phillips
5
4
SUISUN MARSH
Project Locations: Grizzly
Island WA, Island Slough WA, Joice
Island WA, and 25 Private Clubs
California Waterfowl will be completing
40 habitat projects throughout the Suisun
Marsh. Funding will be supplied from 20
grants secured from a variety of agencies
and private contributions. Most projects
will focus on infrastructure upgrades
that will improve the ability to manage
wetlands effectively and efficiently.
Regional Biologist: Robert Eddings
GRASSLANDS
Project Locations: Volta WA, Los Banos WA, North Grasslands WA, 8
Private Properties
Work will focus on restoration of marginal farmlands, as well as improvements
to existing wetlands and uplands. Wetland restoration will include work on the
Gadwall Unit, while other improvements include work on Volta WA, where 150
acres will be added. Private club work will concentrate on rehabilitating water
delivery and drainage systems and other components of wetland infrastructure.
Upland seeding is also a part of the restoration plans.
Regional Biologist: Rich Wright
6
SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN/TULARE BASIN REGION
Project Locations: Kern NWR, Mendota WA
Acres Affected: 801
Construction in 2012 on Kern NWR and Mendota WA will focus on the installation
of water control structures, removal of exotic salt cedar, and construction of levees,
islands, and swales. Project components will allow for active moist soil management,
improved management capabilities, reduced water needs for irrigation and flood
up, and improved mosquito control. With the noted success of recent projects in
the Tulare Basin, California Waterfowl will be submitting a second million-dollar
grant this spring.
Regional Biologist: Jon Pickett
7
FEATURED ON:
“BERETTA’S BIRD
HUNTER’S JOURNAL”
HUNT
North Platte River
WATERFOWL
WINEMAKER’S ISLAND
A RARE HUNTING
OPPORTUNITY
Be sure to secure your
reservation to shoot this
prime duck and goose retreat
with six miles of private
river frontage
Hunting from
North Platte River Blinds
on an island encircled by
cornfields you will experience
phenomenal shooting over
decoys at reasonable ranges on
Sam Sebastiani’s
2,300 acre
Waterfowl Wonderland
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Project Locations: Imperial WA
Acres Affected: 750
Project activities will take place at the Y16 portion of the Wister Unit and will include
tamarisk removal, levee refurbishment, swale construction, and the installation of new
water control structures. California Waterfowl has submitted a million-dollar grant
proposal for the region. We are currently awaiting the funding status of the proposal. If
funded, additional project work will be done throughout the Imperial Valley.
For Details
308-665-1741
WWW.WINEMAKERSISLAND.COM
As the state revises the current flood protection plan, California
Waterfowl is urging policy makers to incorporate wetland habitat
and recreation into their strategy. | PHOTO BY DAVE FELIZ, DFG
Flood Protection Could Benefit Waterfowl
and Hunting Opportunities
by JOHN MCCAMMAN, FORMER DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
Water is critical to California’s health
and prosperity. Naturally, the controversy
caused by drought and how to manage
and distribute scarce water resources gives
way in times of plenty to flood protection
and levee management debates. While
California Waterfowl has been active in
advocating for water for the refuge system
and for increases in managed wetlands,
that effort has recently expanded to include
flood risk management and the potential
for related conservation opportunities,
particularly for waterfowl.
14
California Waterfowl is an active part
of a coalition of conservation and
environmental organizations that is
evaluating the draft 2012 Central Valley
Flood Protection Plan. The draft Plan,
developed by the Department of Water
Resources (DWR), is intended to provide
a roadmap for the repair, replacement,
and improvement of the Central Valley
levee system, including system-wide
investment priorities based on flood
protection requirements, as well as other
considerations.
The draft Plan was publically released on
schedule the last day of 2011, and was
presented to the Central Valley Flood
Protection Board, a state policy body, in
late January for public deliberation and
modification. Adoption is scheduled for
June, 2012. The Plan will direct state
resources and influence local and federal
partners that share responsibilities for
flood protection efforts.
The draft Plan was developed to address
the mandates of five inter-related bills
passed in 2007 aimed at improving flood
management in California. The Plan,
once adopted, will guide investments in
the range of $13-16 billion over the next
20-25 years. The statutes require updates
every five years during that period.
While the primary goal for the
planning effort is to improve flood risk
management, including public safety,
preparedness, and emergency response,
other goals identified in the draft Plan
include promoting ecosystem functions
and multi-benefit projects. As an
example, one of the suggestions that
California Waterfowl has made (along
with others) to improve the draft Plan
was to maximize flood management tools
such as flood bypasses, setback levees,
and transitory storage on floodplains,
creating temporary wetlands which,
if managed properly, would enhance
waterfowl habitat.
In addition to encouraging the use of
temporary wetlands, the larger coalition
of conservation organizations have
made significant comments concerning
development of measurable objectives for
ecosystem management, integrating other
planning efforts, and ensuring a robust
climate change adaptation strategy.
California Waterfowl has joined with
other members of the Central Valley Joint
Venture (CVJV) to focus comments on
the ecosystem benefits the plan could
provide, including:
These comments among others have been sent to DWR and
were incorporated in part and released for public review.
The process then moves the plan to the Central Valley Flood
Protection Board, which will engage in a series of meetings
to finalize the Plan and conduct environmental review under
the California Environmental Quality Act. Many stakeholder
organizations are working to ensure that the Governor makes
timely appointments to the Flood Protection Board that reflect
their conservation interests.
>> CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL’S
INVOLVEMENT
PUBLIC POLICY
• The need to expand the analysis of ecosystem
benefits to include more than the fishery benefits and
endangered species concerns that are acknowledged
in the draft Plan, focusing in particular on Pacific
Flyway migratory species;
• The integration of other planning efforts, such as the
CVJV’s 2006 Implementation Plan, which provides
specific measurable goals and objectives to measure
the success of implementation;
• The potential for joint management of seasonal
wetlands, floodplain, and riparian habitat with
partner non-governmental organizations such as
California Waterfowl;
• A focus on the recreational opportunities that may
be provided with lands reserved for floodplain,
including engagement with hunting organizations.
by RYAN BRODDRICK,
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL WATER COMMITTEE CHAIR
The remaining wetlands of the Central Valley are a
product of historic flood plains. The Central Valley
Joint Venture is actually defined by hydrologic
sub-basins where managed wetlands and cereal
grain crops typically occupy the lowest elevations.
California Waterfowl’s participation in integrating
wetland habitat, groundwater recharge, water
supply, and recreation into the next generation of
flood control infrastructure is critical. Given the
convergence of the Bay Delta Habitat Conservation
Plan and the Central Valley Flood Control Board
agendas in 2012, California Waterfowl has an
immense challenge and opportunity to educate
and advocate for our wetland resources.
According to the Chair of California Waterfowl’s Water
Committee, Board Director Ryan Broddrick, a focus on
the Flood Protection Plan is an opportunity to change the
conversation about waterfowl. “The Central Valley Flood
Protection Board has an immense challenge and opportunity
to reconcile the competing societal values as expressed in statute
and public expectation. Flood plains must have the capacity
to protect public safety, but they must serve multiple uses
including fish and wildlife or we will revisit both the science
and history of the Los Angeles River."
Current status information, as well as background documents
and technical analysis that make up the Central Valley Flood
Protection Plan, can be found at http://www.water.ca.gov/cvfmp/.
Flood plains must have the capacity
to protect public safety, but they
must serve multiple uses including
fish and wildlife or we will revisit
both the science and history of the
Los Angeles River.
15
COHA UPDATES
HUNTING AND
HABITAT UPDATES
2011 LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP
The State Legislature wrapped up its 2011 Session in September with a flurry of
activity, sending several bills to the Governor for his consideration and defeating
many more. Below are some of the many bills that COHA worked on during the
2011 Legislative Session that affect sportsmen and wildlife conservation.
COHA-SPONSORED/PARTNERED LEGISLATION
AB 1162 (Chesbro) - Enhanced Penalties for Poaching
AB1162 would create enhanced penalties for serious poaching violations where trophy
big game is targeted outside of the regular season with the aid of artificial light, bait,
or other illegal methods. The bill would also ensure that increased revenues generated
from higher fines are used to support game conservation and public hunting activities.
AB 1162 will be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee in August.
AB 606 (Gatto) - Landowner Protections for Hunting
AB 606 would ensure that private landowners who enroll their property in a conservation
easement or wildlife habitat conservation program can continue to hunt and fish on their
land without additional restrictions or regulations. AB 606 remains on the Assembly Floor.
SB 752 (Berryhill) - Sportsmen’s Group
Check-Off Box
SB 752 would have allowed members of
the public an opportunity to voluntarily
release their contact information to
nonprofit conservation groups of their
choice when purchasing a hunting license
via the Department of Fish and Game’s
(DFG) Automated License Data System
(ALDS). This bill was intended to help
support hunting-related organizations
build their memberships. SB 752 was
vetoed by the Governor. However, the
Governor directed DFG to work with
Assembly Member Berryhill and COHA
on a new bill for 2012 after more complete
implementation of ALDS.
California Waterfowl Online Store
30 New Products • All New Designs for 2012
Ladies Camo Hat
$18.95
Camo Hat
$18.95
16
Camo Toddler Backpack
$26.50
Camo Sidekick Bag
$36.95
BBQ Apron
$34.99
Ladies Pink Camo Hat
$18.95
www.calwaterfowl.org
Prices Include Tax and Shipping
CWA Knife Set
$74.99
AB 809 (Feuer) – Long Gun Registration - OPPOSE
AB 809, which was signed into law by the Governor in
October 2011, will expand the current handgun registration
law to include all long guns by requiring a permanent
registry of all firearm purchasers. Under the bill’s provisions,
those who purchase, or even transfer a shotgun or rifle to
family members, will be required to register that firearm by
submitting their name, address, place of birth, phone number,
and occupation to the California Department of Justice. The
provisions of AB 809 will go into effect January 1, 2014.
SB 436 (Kehoe) – Nonprofits and Mitigation Endowments – SUPPORT
SB 436, which was signed by the Governor in 2011, will
authorize until January 1, 2022, state or local agencies to
provide funds (i.e. endowments) to a nonprofit organization
to acquire land or easements for mitigation purposes, subject
to certain requirements. This bill will allow for more efficient
use of land management conservation funds.
SB 917 (Lieu) - Ban on Sale of Dogs in Public Places – OPPOSE
SB 917, signed by the Governor in early 2011, will make it a
crime for any person to sell, or even display for sale, a dog in
certain public places. COHA opposed this measure because
of its adverse impacts on dog breeders and conservation
groups who sell dogs at their fundraising events.
SB 34 (Simitian) – Water Fee – OPPOSE
SB 34 would impose an annual charge on each retail water
supplier in the state, including a charge based on each acre
of land that is irrigated for agricultural purposes. COHA
opposes this legislation, because it would impact the ability
of both public and private landowners to flood their lands
for waterfowl habitat purposes, including the flooding of
managed wetlands and post-harvest agricultural fields (e.g.
rice, corn). SB 34 was tabled for 2011.
SB 328 (Kehoe)- Protection of Conservation Easements – SUPPORT
SB 328, which was signed into law by the Governor in
2011, will help ensure that the public resource values of a
conservation easement on private land are fully considered
should a public agency attempt to condemn the property.
And, if condemnation proceeds, the bill will help ensure
adequate mitigation to offset impacts on wildlife.
COHA UPDATES
OTHER STATE LEGISLATION
17
MARK HENNELLY NAMED VP
WELCOME
BACK
>> Mark Hennelly is shown here with his daughters, Maura and Hannah,
during last season’s junior hunt. | PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK HENNELLY
The California Waterfowl family is excited to welcome Mark
Hennelly as the new Vice President of Legislative Affairs and
Public Policy. Hennelly is leaving his position as Vice President
of California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) where he
spent the last six years promoting wildlife conservation and
the preservation of our outdoor heritage. From 2000 to 2006,
Hennelly also worked for California Waterfowl as the Deputy
Director of Government Affairs.
“I am very excited that Mark is joining our team here at
California Waterfowl,” commented John Carlson, Jr., President.
“His legislative and public policy experience will enhance our
capabilities to carry out our mission: the conservation, protection,
and enhancement of California’s waterfowl resources, wetlands,
and associated hunting heritage.” Hennelly will serve as
California Waterfowl’s lead staff member dealing with legislative
and public policy challenges and opportunities that affect both
conservation and hunting.
18
Over the past several years, Hennelly has helped write and pass
state legislation to protect conservation easements on private
land, encourage private landowners to open their properties to
hunting and other wildlife-dependent recreational activities,
and ensure that state waterfowl-dedicated monies are used as
effectively and efficiently as possible on state-managed wetland
areas. He has also helped defeat bills that would have banned
dove hunting, prohibited the use of dogs for certain types of
hunting, and raised fees on sporting ammunition. On the local
level, he has worked to defeat county ordinances that would have
restricted the ability of landowners to restore wildlife habitat on
their lands. Mark has also helped stop several proposed local
ordinances that would have effectively restricted or banned
hunting on public lands and waters.
Mark Hennelly Named Vice
President of Legislative
Affairs and Public Policy
“I’m thrilled to be advocating directly for an organization that
is so dedicated to waterfowl and waterfowl hunters,” stated
Hennelly. “There are a lot of political challenges facing the
waterfowl conservation community—maintaining wetland
water supplies, enhancing hunting opportunities on public
lands, protecting waterfowl habitat from urban growth, ensuring
appropriate waterfowl hunting regulations, amongst other
issues—that I look forward to helping to address as part of the
California Waterfowl team.”
Hennelly will serve as California
Waterfowl’s lead staff member dealing
with legislative and public policy
challenges and opportunities that affect
both conservation and hunting.
Hennelly received a degree in political science from Santa
Clara University and earned his Master’s in Government from
California State University, Sacramento. Hennelly’s resume
also includes positions with the State Assembly on Water, Parks
and Wildlife Committee as an Associate Consultant, and the
Department of Fish and Game as a Scientific Aide. His impressive
resume and longtime commitment to conservation and our
hunting heritage has California Waterfowl staff and members
excited about Hennelly’s next chapter with the organization.
HUNTING
HERITAGE PARTNERS
by GEORGE OBERSTADT, CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL HERITAGE PROGRAMS SUPERVISOR
>> It takes many volunteer hours and willing partners to make a camp or other event happen. California Waterfowl thanks everyone involved in passing on our hunting
heritage to the next generation.| PHOTO BY JOHN LOCHER
Through their efforts, we have been able
to create a nationally-recognized, awardwinning hunter outreach program.
California Waterfowl’s Hunting Heritage
Program doesn’t stop there; we have many
partners and volunteers to give thanks
to (too numerous to mention, actually).
This year, California Waterfowl’s Hunt
program will be hosting hundreds of
public hunting opportunities on private
land for turkey, dove, deer, and pig as
well as many waterfowl hunts. The youth
and family hunting portions will provide
exciting opportunities for new hunters
so they can develop hunting skills and a
lifelong passion and interest in hunting.
We will also host calling and shooting clinics
and work with the Department of Fish and
Game on waterfowl hunting clinics.
For more information on these exciting
programs, visit www.calwaterfowl.org or
contact George Oberstadt at goberstadt@
calwaterfowl.org or Jeff Smith at jsmith@
calwaterfowl.org. Preserving our hunting
heritage is a full time job for California
Waterfowl, and I’d like to thank our
many partners and hosts for their
gracious hospitality that makes these
programs possible.
>> 2012 PROGRAMS
Bird Have Ranch Camp (Butte County)
Duck & Goose Calling Clinic (Butte)
Mandeville Island Camp (San Joaquin)
Mandeville Island Advanced Camp
Mystic Lake Camp (Riverside)
Rancho Esquon Camp (Butte)
Sacramento-area Camp
Suisun Marsh Field Day (Solano)
Waterfowl Expo & Skills Challenge (San Joaquin)
Women’s Hunter Camp (Solano)
*More locations TBA
Logon to www.calwaterfowl.org for a complete
calendar and registration information.
It started with a proposal in 2005 to
Conaway Ranch, where we would host
waterfowl camps for young hunters. These
camps would teach hunter education,
shooting, and hunting skills as well as
immerse the participants in what it means
to be a hunter conservationist. From that
one camp, working with Mike Hall at
Conaway Ranch, recruiting volunteers,
and developing a plan for how these
camps could work, the program was born.
California Waterfowl’s Hunting Heritage
Program will host at least 13 hunter camps
in 2012 with outreach to youth, women,
and college students and efforts to recruit
from shooting and scout groups. We have
developed more partnerships since our
humble beginning including Mystic Lake
Duck Club, Ramona Duck Club, Rancho
Esquon, Grizzly Ranch, Mandeville
Island, Montna Farms, Black Point Sports
Club, Birds Landing Hunting Preserve,
and Bird Haven Ranch. Each of these
partners welcomes us every year, and
we owe a great deal to their willingness
to host these events on their facilities.
19
GIVING BACK
GIVING BACK
The Faces of California Waterfowl
Volunteers have generously given their time to California
Waterfowl’s many programs. From working with youth, to
organizing local events, to caring for ducklings, members have
found their passions and jumped in full force. We’d like to thank
our many tireless volunteers for their efforts. They are the heart
and soul of California Waterfowl, and without volunteers we
could not accomplish everything we have in the past 67 years. We
hope that hearing their stories will encourage you to find your
niche within California Waterfowl and give back to the heritage
that his given you so much.
JANET SMITH
OVER 15 YEARS OF SERVICE | DINNERS & GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING
I first became involved through my husband, Brad. He is a Life Sponsor of California Waterfowl
and naturally encouraged me to help him with the fundraising dinners. A couple of years ago,
Tom Homen suggested that I take over the Humboldt County dinner. It was tough at first, but
it turned out to be the best dinner we have had in several years, raising more for California
Waterfowl than our last two dinners combined! Our events have always been all about family,
encouraging sprig members and spouses to participate.
FRANK CAMBRA
5 YEARS OF SERVICE | KIDS CAMPS & HUNTING HERITAGE
Forty years ago, Mr. Ron Dysart, my father’s friend and then
manager of Wheeler Island Duck Club, made me an offer that I
could not refuse: “Frank, clean up the barn and I will take you on
a Sunday duck hunt!” Best I can recall, that was the only ‘junior
hunter program’ available in those days. I was truly grateful and,
after getting the barn in shape one hot August weekend, I shot my
first cock sprig later that fall.
Volunteering with California
Waterfowl is a great way
to give back to the resource
that has made all of those
good times possible.
Today, there are several Junior Hunt Programs offered by many
organizations across the State of California, and I enjoy helping when
and where possible. To my thinking, the best of these is the Grizzly
Ranch Junior Waterfowl Hunt sponsored by California Waterfowl.
Every boat trip to a duck blind with a youngster, his guardian, and
my gundog Gina takes me back to my first days in the Suisun Marsh.
DERROLD DALY
22 YEARS OF SERVICE | WOOD DUCKS & EGG SALVAGE
20
I got connected with California Waterfowl in 1990 through a
banding permit from Fish and Game. Dan Loughman has been
banding my salvage birds since then, and he’s a great friend and
great bird bander. I am involved with the Wood Duck Program,
with over 40 nest boxes on my property. I take the eggs that are
left behind, and I hatch and release wood ducks and mallards
through the salvage. Just this year, my facility hatched 500 wood
ducks and 750 mallards. I do this, because it’s my hobby and
passion. As long as I can walk, I will keep doing it.
7 YEARS OF SERVICE | HUNTING HERITAGE & GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING
I began volunteering with California in 2005, because I wanted to directly impact California
and ensure that the privileges and resources that make hunting in this state one of the best
will be here for future generations. I expanded my volunteering from working with the Youth
Education Program to co-chairing the El Dorado banquet. Being involved in a successful
dinner where we can all get together and celebrate the previous duck season with many
waterfowlers is a great way to connect with other hunters in the community. I volunteer
about 30 days each year with California Waterfowl and enjoy every minute. Educating
children on the wonders of the marsh, improving habitat, and bringing the wood duck back
from the brink of extinction: these are things hunters do, that California Waterfowl does, and
why I am proud to be involved.
GIVING BACK
JIM KNUTSON
Every boat trip to a duck blind
with a youngster takes me back to
my first days in the marsh.
RANDALL BROWN
15 YEARS OF SERVICE | BOARD OF DIRECTORS & GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING
RAY PROTHERO
OVER 30 YEARS OF SERVICE | WOOD DUCKS & GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING
I started helping as a co-chair and have now chaired several
California Waterfowl dinners, but my heart is with the
Wood Duck and Pintail programs. I love working with our
youth and have brought several young hunters into the Wood
Duck Program and the sport of hunting. As a new Wood
Duck District Manager (third year), I love working on new
projects and seeing the results of the program. I just try to
give back what the good Lord gave me: time in the field and
birds to watch work the decoys.
Volunteering with California Waterfowl has been very rewarding
and allowed me to give a lot back to the sport, helping to ensure
future generations will be able to hunt ducks in California. My
work with California Waterfowl has also helped me to teach the
importance of wildlife conservation to my two daughters, who now
both help out at the Solano Rib Feed.
When I first started duck hunting in the late 1990s, I was contacted
by the chair of the Contra Costa Crab Feed. Before I knew it I was
spearheading the raffle and silent auction at the fundraiser, which I
still do. After working with the Crab Feed for a few years, the Solano
Rib Feed was born. Nine years later, I’m proud to say that my event
has netted nearly $300,000 for California Waterfowl! Volunteering
at the events was so rewarding that when the opportunity presented
itself to join the Board of Directors, I jumped at the chance and will
finish up my sixth year on the Board this spring.
21
GIVING BACK
LISA STRAPP
12 YEARS OF SERVICE | DINNERS & GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING
ADAM SILVA
1 YEAR OF SERVICE | KIDS CAMPS & HUNTING HERITAGE
About a year ago I saw online that an extra guide was needed for
one of the waterfowl youth hunts at Grizzly Ranch. I went ahead
and volunteered and was really impressed with the program
California Waterfowl has built for youth hunters. We had a great
hunt that morning, with my youth getting a beautiful drake
widgeon as his first duck ever. Since then I have volunteered at
the youth hunter camps and Marsh Madness days.
Volunteering with California Waterfowl is a great way to give
back to the resource that has made all of those good times possible.
Besides that, volunteering is fun! Watching a youth hunter drop
his first duck, answering students’ questions about wildlife, or
watching a camper pop a balloon at the archery station are all
great ways to spend the day!
>> To find out more about ways you can get involved
with your favorite California Waterfowl programs,
visit our website at www.calwaterfowl.org, or contact
us at (916) 648-1406 or cwa@calwaterfowl.org.
22
1318 Ramirez Rd.
Marysville, CA 95901
Wetland Enhancements LLC
All phases of wetland construction, enhancement, and restoration.
Over 10 years experience in the Northern Sacramento Valley.
Clark Becker
(530)682-9908
clarkbecker@digitalpath.net
Pat Collmer
(530)701-2848
pcollmer@pulsarco.com
My husband, Marlon, and I are the committee chairs for the
Galt/Lodi dinner. At first I started out assisting with ticket sales
and writing and printing up the banquet program. After our
first year of success, I soon became in charge of everything from
renting the hall to balancing the account for the end of the event.
However, the success of the dinners is due to the committee,
volunteers, and guests who attend. I love planning this event and
have no intention of giving it up anytime soon. The reason behind
it is simple: conserve waterfowl for California. I have always been
a Central Valley hunter, and our son Jason, 14, is now a huge
hunting fan. I want to ensure there are waterfowl and wetlands
in California for future generations.
23
GEESE GALORE
WOUNDED WARRIORS
Marines Hunt 2011
by SCOTT MUELLER, CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL VP OF FUND AND MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
California Waterfowl had the pleasure of hosting eight
Marines on a duck hunting weekend at Grizzly Ranch
in Suisun Marsh. Part of the Camp Pendleton Wounded
Warrior Battalion West, the Marines were welcomed Friday
afternoon to the ranch with gifts from California Waterfowl.
The weekend was full of much needed rest and relaxation for
these American heroes, as well as top notch eats provided by
Stuart McCullough and Tim Hudson.
24
Grizzly Ranch had plenty of birds to offer the Marines, and the
shoot proved to be a huge success. For some of the Wounded
Warriors, it was their first experience hunting ducks. One of
the soldiers, Oscar, commented after several volleys, “Get me
my rifle! I could hit these ducks a lot easier if you get me my
sniper rifle.” After the hunt, the Marines swapped tall tales as
they cleaned the morning’s harvest.
The Marines were more than appreciative for the wonderful
experience at the ranch, but if you were to ask the guides and
volunteers who made this weekend happen, they would say
that they also gained a lot from the experience.
Special thanks to California Waterfowl members Rick
Lawrence, Orlando Rocha, Colby Smith, and Tom Smith for
volunteering their time to make this a weekend to remember
for the Wounded Warriors. Additional thanks to our other
volunteers with military backgrounds: Andy Gabryzak, Brent
Brummfield, Kyle Vella, and Chris Mort.
The Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment provides and
facilitates nonmedical care to combat and noncombat wounded,
ill, and injured Marines, and Sailors attached to or in direct
support of Marine units, and their family members, in order to
assist them as they return to duty or transition to civilian life. To
learn more, visit www.woundedwarriorregiment.org.
WOUNDED WARRIORS
Dear California Waterfowl,
On Behalf of the Marines at Wounded Warrior Battalion
(West), I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the
wonderful job done by the members of your organization.
Wounded Warrior Battalion (West) is proud of its affiliation with your
Association. We thank you for making this a very successful event, from the
fundraising dinner to the hunt itself, and ensuring the safety, well-being and
enjoyment of all who participated. It is an experience that will forever be
remembered and cherished by our grateful Marines.
>> FAR LEFT PHOTO | Top row: Matt Bradford, Kyle Vella,
Chris Gravy, Oscar Cannon, Andy Gabryzak, Mark Milosavic,
John Capps, Brent Brummfield, Rithy Yeorth. Bottom row:
Victor Jaramillo, Tom Smith, Melissa Jaramillo, Justin Wilson,
Colby Smith, Joe Cantino.
>> CENTER, TOP PHOTO | Melissa and her husband, Victor,
took a Canada goose on the hunt, with their volunteer guide,
Tim Hudson.
>> CENTER, BOTTOM PHOTO | Justin and his volunteer
guide, Andy, boat back in from the blind.
>> FAR RIGHT PHOTO | Stuart, Matt, Oscar, Melissa, Victor,
and Tim pose with the morning's take.
Sincerely,
J.R. Fullwood, Jr.
Commanding Officer
Wounded Warrior Battalion (West)
and
SSgt. Oscar Cannon
SSgt. Joe Cantino
SSgt. Rithy Yeorth
Sgt. Chris Gravy
Sgt. Victor Jaramillo, Jr.
Sgt. Mark Milosavic
Major John Capps
HM2 Melissa Jaramillo
Again, thank you and I appreciated your valuable time spent and look forward
to our next event.
25
HALL OF FAME
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWLERS
HALL OF FAME
2011 Inductees
The California Waterfowlers Hall of Fame (CWHF) honored
its 2011 inductees at a luncheon on September 28, 2011. Started
in 2006, CWHF recognizes those who have significantly
impacted the status of waterfowl in California, including
biologists, academics, wildlife managers, sportsmen, and other
conservationists. The inductees have dedicated their life’s work
to improving the waterfowl resource and have left behind a
legacy of contributions for future waterfowling generations.
This year’s inductees including Stephen D. Bechtel, Jr.; Ray L.
Burmaster; Tim Egan; Grant Kenyon; and Gary Kramer.
STEPHEN D. BECHTEL, JR.
A dedicated philanthropist, Stephen D. Bechtel, Jr., has had a lifelong passion for waterfowl and
wetlands. The S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation has been a leader in migratory bird and wetland
conservation and has generously supported California Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, and
Audubon among other numerous conservation and nonprofit organizations. Bechtel has also
personally invested in the protection and restoration of 4,000 acres of waterfowl habitat in California.
An avid outdoorsman and competitive retriever trainer, Bechtel has shared his commitment to
conservation and love of hunting with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, in
addition to the many conservation contributions he’s shared with California hunters.
RAY L. BURMASTER
A hunter since the age of eight, Ray L. Burmaster has been the voice of California public
hunters since the 1960s. Working with the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) and
the Fish and Game Commission, Burmaster was the motivating force in revising state
tagging requirements for harvested birds to conform with federal standards, thus sparing
public area hunters from tickets based on conflicting rules. Burmaster served as Chair of
the Sacramento Valley Waterfowl Habitat Management Committee, leading an in-depth
investigation of habitat management practices of public and private entities. He also served
on California Waterfowl’s Board of Directors, helping establish both the California Wood
Duck Program and the Unattached Hunter Committee, a forum for California public
hunters to address issues affecting public hunting. Burmaster’s efforts are still serving
habitat managers and waterfowlers across the state.
26
THE WATERFOWLERS HALL OF FAME SELECTION COMMITTEE
RAY ARNETT
JOHN CARLSON, JR.
DAN CONNELLY
JON FISCHER Retired, DFG
President, California Waterfowl
Retired, DFG
Deputy Executive Director, Fish and Game Commission
BILL GAINES
RED HUNT
ROBERT MCLANDRESS
FRITZ REID DAN YPARRAGUIRRE
President, California Outdoor Heritage Alliance
Retired, DFG
Endowed Chair, California Waterfowl
Director of Conservation Planning, Ducks Unlimited
Acting Deputy Director for Wildlife and Fisheries Division, DFG
One of the patriarchs of the waterfowl and wetland movement in California, Tim
Egan used his business acumen to help lead two integral conservation organizations in
California: California Waterfowl and the Suisun Resource Conservation District (SRCD).
As a Board Director, Egan helped guide California Waterfowl from a small grassroots
organization to one that leads the country in waterfowl conservation. Under his leadership,
membership grew and revenues more than tripled, allowing new programs like WildlifeFriendly Agriculture and the Hunting Heritage Initiative to be established. Egan’s also
served for over 20 years on the SRCD Board of Directors, 15 of which as President, helping
landowners in the Suisun Marsh obtain water supplies of adequate quality to maintain
waterfowl habitat. These organizations and their many waterfowl and wetland conservation
programs continue to thrive today as a result of Egan’s contributions.
HALL OF FAME
TIM EGAN (1937-2011)
GRANT KENYON (1927-1998)
Grant Kenyon began a lifelong passion for waterfowling while serving in the Air Force
in Louisiana during the Korean War. In the 1960s, Kenyon moved to Sacramento and
became actively involved with California Waterfowl’s Government Affairs Program as the
organizations Vice President of Legislative Affairs. Walking the halls of the State Capitol,
he influenced numerous legislative bills of critical importance to California’s waterfowl
and sporting interests. Kenyon also played a key role in creating and maintaining many
of the state’s most important waterfowl programs. Among other accomplishments, he led
the legislative efforts to create California’s State Duck Stamp in 1971 (the nation’s first
state duck stamp) and DFG's Waterfowl Habitat Program in 1987 (the Presley Program).
Kenyon’s contributions have helped preserve waterfowl and hunting traditions for
generations of hunters to come.
Gary Kramer is a distinguished wildlife biologist who has aided California’s waterfowl
through habitat protection and restoration, wildlife writings, and photography. His Master’s
research was the first biological description of Pacific black brant wintering in Baja California,
Mexico. For 26 years he worked as a biologist and refuge manager for the US Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS), implementing the first USFWS easement program for private
duck club habitat in California’s Grasslands and serving as the first Central Valley Joint
Venture Coordinator. Kramer also promoted public land hunting and youth hunting during
his tenure with USFWS. In 1999, he retired to pursue outdoor writing and photography
fulltime. One of the world’s foremost authorities on international wingshooting, Kramer has
published hundreds of articles and several books. He is also an award-winning photographer
sought after by national magazines, calendars, and books. His contributions to California’s
waterfowling legacy will continue to impact generations to come.
>> For more information on the California Waterfowler’s Hall of Fame contact cwa@calwaterfowl.org.
GARY KRAMER
27
HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTORS
Why We Need Hunter Education Instructors
(And Why YOU Are Perfect for the Job!)
by COURTNEY ASHE, EDITOR
>> Tim Davanis began teaching hunter education over 25 years ago.
Now more than ever California is in need of instructors
for the Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Hunter
Education Program. Over 2,000 courses are taught each
year in California, all by volunteer instructors. With an era
of dedicated instructors preparing to retire, and a growing
and increasingly diversified population taking an interest in
California hunting, new instructors will be essential to the
future of the Hunter Education Program.
I had a chance to sit down with three California Waterfowl staff
members who are also certified hunter education instructors:
George Oberstadt, Heritage Programs Supervisor; Jeff
Smith, Hunt Program Coordinator; and Tim Davanis, Field
Operations Representative. We discussed why becoming an
instructor was personally important for each of them, and
they also dispelled some common misunderstandings about
what it takes to become an instructor.
I’m a fan of the buddy system. Find a partner that you
like
teaching
with. It’s less intimidating and you don’t have to
GEORGE: It’s rewarding to see a kid or adult proudly displaying
remember everything.
their certificate, and they just can’t wait to go hunting.
TIM:
A group of buddies and I got certified together, and we’ve
TIM: And when a young person breaks his or her first target,
they’ve caught the fever. To know I was a part of that gives me been team teaching the class ever since.
the biggest enjoyment.
JEFF: You get to show just how much you love the outdoors, WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR MORE AND NEW INSTRUCTORS TO SIGN
and that rubs off and influences the young adults in the class. ON IN THE COMING YEARS?
TIM: Because I’m getting old! In all seriousness, I’ve done this
for 25 years. We need recruits to keep the program going.
GEORGE: We need people who can connect with a younger
generation, males and females.
JEFF: Also, more people are taking the hunter education classes,
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BIGGEST DETERRENT OR
so the demand for instructors is increasing.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT BEING A HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR?
JEFF:
You don’t need to know everything
or be the best hunter out there.
MISCONCEPTION POTENTIAL VOLUNTEERS MIGHT HAVE ABOUT
BECOMING A HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR?
28
You don’t need to know everything or be the best hunter
out there. You just need to be good with people and know
how to present the material.
TIM: People have the misconception that it will take too much
of their time to teach.
GEORGE: Or that teaching a 10-hour course would be
overwhelming. But the best way is to team teach with someone
experienced and take on a small part at a time.
JEFF:
WHAT IS THE HUNTER EDUCATION PROGRAM’S GREATEST NEED?
We especially need female instructors and bilingual
instructors. There are many people who want to hunt and
fish, and English isn't their first language.
JEFF: Since we are so diverse in California, bilingual speakers are
very necessary. DFG has expressed specific needs for those who
speak Spanish and languages in the Hmong-Mien family.
TIM: We also need instructors in rural areas or who are willing
to travel to rural areas.
TIM:
And we also need people who can offer guidance and
support to newly certified hunters. We’ve got to keep them
interested in hunting and make sure their first experiences in the
field are positive. You don’t need to be a hunter ed. instructor to
mentor new hunters as they start going afield.
GEORGE:
HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTORS
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR BECOMING AN INSTRUCTOR?
TIM: They do a background check. Fingerprints. It’s a three-to six-
month process to get certified.
GEORGE: People get hung up or start feeling overwhelmed about the
process to get started. The best thing to do is work with another
established instructor and help with their classes. Get started slowly
and have some fun. You don’t have to bite off a huge chunk all at
once. There are lots of things you can do to help an instructor out
while you’re going through the certification process to slowly build
your expertise and experience.
>> George Oberstadt has been a hunter education instructor for six years.
WHAT DOES INSTRUCTING ENTAIL?
JEFF: You can make it as extravagant as you want or as simple as
you want. You could potentially have a hunter ed. class in your
garage. You need to have at least three students to be able to teach.
There are two different courses: online course study requires just
four hours of classroom instruction. Or the traditional course is
ten hours. Live fire is not required.
TIM: But live range is very important.
>> Jeff Smith has been instructing new hunters for three years.
GEORGE: If live fire with a class of beginners sounds
intimidating, there are exercises you can do on the
range without actually shooting the gun. They can learn
everything and practice without the bang at the end.
(In regard to the liability of hunter education instructors,
DFG’s Hunter Education Coordinator, Captain Roy Griffith
told me, “All of our instructors are considered state volunteer
employees. Therefore, as long as they are operating within the
scope of their duties and following our policy and procedures,
they are covered by state insurance.”)
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
• Visit www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered for more information on instructor requirements.
• Contact your District Coordinator to ask questions
and start the certification process.
• Northern – (530) 225-2300 or (916) 358-2900
• North Coast – (707) 944-5500
• Central – (559) 243-4005 x124
• Southern – (909) 987-8082
TIM: Like the Nike commercial: just do it. It’s not that
time consuming. The rewards outweigh anything else.
I’ve been around long enough now that I’m teaching
the kids of former students. Sometimes you run into
them on the street, “You’re my hunter ed. instructor! I
got three pheasants last weekend!”
JEFF: I would recommend becoming an instructor to anyone
who actively pursues hunting as their hobby. If we don’t have
hunter ed. instructors, we definitely won’t have hunters.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO FOLKS WHO HAVE
CONSIDERED BECOMING A HUNTER EDUCATION
INSTRUCTOR BUT JUST HAVEN’T TAKEN THAT NEXT STEP?
29
NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES
30
NEW YEAR,
NEW OPPORTUNITIES
10 Ways to Support California Waterfowl in 2012
MEMBERSHIP
EQUIPMENT
VOLUNTEER
Our goal is to double our membership
in 2012. Help us do this by renewing
your annual membership and giving
the gift of membership to friends and family.
If you’re ready for the next step, consider
upgrading your membership level to Life
Member or above; you won’t have to hassle with
renewing every year, and you’ll receive discounts
at California Waterfowl events. Use the envelope
folded into this magazine.
Donating your new or gentlyused equipment helps keep our
programs running. Give an old
gun a second life by donating it to our
youth outdoor camps. Donate an extra
vehicle to our field crews. Or contribute
waterfowl artwork you no longer need to
our fundraising auctions.
Whatever your passion, there’s
a place for you at California
Waterfowl. Help pass on the
heritage at a youth hunting camp, plan your
local chapter banquet, or give your time at
an event or expo. We cannot implement our
programs without your help.
“FRIEND”RAISERS
HERITAGE FUND
Do you have a group of friends
who you would like to encourage
to support our mission? Host a
small event at your duck club or a local
restaurant. Ask friends to join or fellow
club members to make a donation to
California Waterfowl. If you’ll host it,
we’ll help you plan it.
Leave your legacy for future
generations; name California
Waterfowl as a beneficiary in
your will. Our financial advisors can help
you set up a plan that benefits both us and
your loved ones. See page 50 for more
information.
Attend your local fundraising
dinner and invite your friends
and their families. The more you
enjoy yourself in the auction and raffle, the
more you support California Waterfowl’s
programs. You can even consider
sponsoring a raffle item or an entire table,
and we’ll recognize your contribution
in the event program. See page 58 for a
calendar of upcoming events.
>> For more information on
any of these opportunities,
contact us at (916) 648-1406
or cwa@calwaterfowl.org.
LAND
Donate a hunt at your club
or on your property to our
Hunt Program. You will not
only be increasing hunter opportunity,
you’ll be helping us raise funds for our
conservation and heritage programs.
You can receive tax benefits
by creating a conservation
easement or donating land
directly to California Waterfowl. Your
gift will enable California Waterfowl
to create waterfowl habitat, provide
hunting opportunity, and further our
mission for waterfowl, wetlands, and
hunting heritage.
GIVE
WORKPLACE MATCHING
Ask your employer about
matching programs. Many
companies will match
your charitable donations up to a certain
amount. It takes just a little effort to make
your donation dollars go even further.
You can make a donation any
time, for any amount, and it’s
always tax deductable. Take
advantage of our “give and get” offers,
where you get a free gift when you give
a minimum donation. You can also give
in memory of a loved one or mark a
special occasion with a donation. Use
the envelope folded into this magazine.
NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES
HUNT PROGRAM
31
CALIFORNIA WOOD
DUCK PROGRAM
Pairs of wood ducks buzz around on a quiet California morning prospecting nest boxes put out just
for them. This is a familiar sight to the hundreds of volunteers that drive the California Wood Duck
Program (CWDP) and signifies that it’s time to gear up for the wood duck nesting season. After 21
years, the CWDP is still as strong as ever, providing nest boxes to hens that have produced 621,000
ducklings. As the largest volunteer-run waterfowl conservation program in North America, the CWDP
has involved thousands of volunteers since its inception in 1991 and engages over 400 volunteers annually,
creating opportunities for people to reconnect with some of the greatest things the California has to
offer: waterfowl, wetlands, and conservation. This amazing program would not be possible without the
dedication, passion, and countless hours that every volunteer has given. Thank you.
- Caroline Brady, Wood Duck Program Coordinator
WOOD DUCK REPORT
WOOD DUCK 101
Come join the members of the California Wood Duck
Program at the Kautz Farms and Ironstone Winery Wood
Duck Project in Lodi on Saturday, May 19, from 9:00
am to 2:00 pm. This is an exciting opportunity to learn
from veteran wood duckers. The event is free, so bring
the whole family, a lunch, and your camera! Displays,
kids’ activities, box building, and photo opportunities
will be ongoing throughout the day. Assembled nest
boxes will be available for a special one-day price of $20.
If you are interested in attending, please visit http://
events.SignUp4.com/WoodDuck101. Questions can
be directed to Robert Franco at (707) 290-3601 or
rjf4woodys@sbcglobal.net.
WOOD DUCK BANQUET
California Waterfowl invites you to attend the 21st annual
Wood Duck Program banquet on Saturday, April 14, at
5:00 pm at the Fairfield Community Center. Order your
tickets by March 10 and receive an early bird special that
includes $20 in raffle tickets plus a free gun raffle ticket. For
more information or to make a tax deductible donation to
this event, please contact Robert Franco at (707) 290-3601,
Steve Mortensen at (707) 592-5545, or Ray Prothero at
(707) 448-7624. All proceeds from this event are exclusively
used to manage the California Wood Duck Program.
34
NEST BOXES
If you are in need of wood duck nest boxes, California
Waterfowl has fully-assembled boxes available for $40,
or “do-it-yourself” kits for $20. Your purchase helps
support the California Wood Duck Program. To place
an order, contact Caroline Brady at (916) 648-1406 x101
or cbrady@calwaterfowl.org.
WOOD DUCK
PRODUCTION
PROJECT NAME
# of BOXES
# of DUCKLINGS
VOLUNTEERS
DISTRICT 1
1,000 Springs Ranch 42
230
Geramiah Bogerlips, Gary Welsch
Battle Creek 108
259
Orville Kiso, Kevin McLeod, Marian McLeod, Dell Ross
Beedy
8
26
Ted Beedy
Black Bear Ranch
14
142
Tom Houston
Camgros
10
91
Gloria Camgros, Mike Camgros, Ryan Camgros
Chester/Lake Almanor/ 125
283
Jim Burton, Melissa Nelson
Westwood
Eden Valley 15
27
Paul Elmore
Ferrari Farms
34
356
Rob Bruning, Craig Ferrari, Bob Kennedy
Gio's
4
33
Bev Giovanetti
Napoli
2
4
Gail Napoli, Len Napoli
Nevada Co. Fish &
25
210
Rob Bruning, Craig Ferrari
Wildlife Commission
Nicholson 4
8
Les Nicholson
Pete's Valley 3
0
Phil Dickinson
Sanders
9
55
Cindee Denton, Rick Sanders
Ulmer
1
9
Jack Ulmer
Wagon Creek
24
173
Denise Hines, John Hines, Robert McNames
Wharton
18
185
Trevor Webb, Kaleb Wharton, Mike Wharton
Wilderness Unlimited
Dennis Corvello, Nick Jamison, Bill Jeans, Matt Meyer
- Bidwell
22203
- Lake Margaret
538
DISTRICT 2
Brassfield Estate Winery
Ferndale Hopland Research & Extension Center
Lazy "G" 25
12
8
California Waterfowl Contract
Steven Jensen, Jim Ober
Robert Keiffer, Troy McWilliams
0
Paul DeCloedt, Tyler DeCloedt, Jim Grady,
Shannon Grady, Bo Lawson, Brett Lawson, Hunter Lawson, Sandra Lawson
Poker Bar 6
30
Kyle Huber, Jordan Huber, Steve Huber,
Ron Purl, Allen White
Rentsch-Beach
128
544
Stan Beach, Pete Palma, Eugene Rentsch,
Glenda Rentsch, Pete Scranton
Wilderness Unlimited 13
84
- Camp 19
5
0
42
48
# of DUCKLINGS
VOLUNTEERS
DISTRICT 3
99E
A & G Montna Properties, LP
Barale Ranch
Barale Ranch West
Behring Ranch
11
16
72
13
19
4
57
142
50
218
Joe Barale, Pete Barale, Robert Franco, Erik Hora, Ron Hora
David Barale, Joe Barale, Peter Barale
Carey Mitosinka, Linda Peterson, Mark Pine,
Tom Seeno, Paul Sharpe, Jim Wilmes
Bird Haven Ranch
185
2,614
Mike Memeo, Scott Swan
Black Butte 19
17
Bruce Gallaway, Joseph Learch
Broken Wing Duck Club 11
113
Burgard 34
312
Dirk Burgard
Butte College
18
201
Erin Balka, Josh Bargel, Deb Conway,
Cody Dickerson, Derek Dornsife, Neil Lagomarsino, Clint Nicoles, Rick Wittsell
Butte Creek Island Ranch 50
154
Terry Gonzalez, Ian Lawrie, Eric Leon,
Charlie Rogers, John Simmons, Chuck Svendsen
Cherokee Farms
38
358
Jim Carr, Kim Carr, Mike Hyde, Mike Johnson,
Zack Johnson, Mike Salca, Leo Trombley
Closed Zone Farms
31
289
Brittany Lawrence; Madison Lawrence;
Rick Lawrence, Jr.; Rick Lawrence, Sr.; Wendy Lawrence, Brian Morrow, Joshua Morrow, Jeff Smith
Colusa NWR 39
470
Scott Currier, Tim Nichols, Mike Peters
Crim-Sky Hi 60
420
Bill Crim, Eileen Crim, David Mazaika, Mike Phelan
Davis Ranches 6
0
Mark Kirsten
Sycamore Slough
Flyway Gun Club
5
34
Karen Laws, Mike Laws, Steve Mortensen
Foster City Rod 131
803
Ken Bertelsen, James Danse, Darlod Givens,
& Gun Club
Roger Hattin, Matt Plutt, Jim Robinson, Eric Swanson, Don Woods
Franco's Duck Club
12
40
Bob Cordrey, Rich Huntsinger
Gilpin Ranch 3
10
Robert Franco, Brian Gilpin, Dave Howes, Steve Mortensen
Gray Lodge Wildlife Area 336
2,259
Kim Armstrong, Taylor Barron, Rachel Bertagna, Justin Brice, Nathan Dahl, Barbara Dieter, Lori Dieter, Ryan Eble, Elisabeth Farley, Michelle Gaston,
Dorothy Glass, Nick Glass, Deirdre Goodfriend, Paul Guisande, Bob Guzman, Leroy Hord, Gary Huff, Jack MacFarlane,
Richard McGinnis, Margaret McInnis, Barbara Nolan, Ben Raynal, John Royce, Kristin Shorrock, Marie Smith,
Hal Stoner, Hannah Stout, Tom Taylor, Marcie Towers, Shelby Waugh, Stephanie Waugh, Jane Wheeler
Hedgerow Farms
19
79
John Eadie and UC Davis Students: Nicole Breuner,
Fiona Cambra, Amanda Campbell, Veronica Corbett, Emilie Graves, Galen Groff, Elizabeth Hardy, Samantha Haynes,
Erica Kelly, Julie Kim, Diana Kimbrough, Cassidy McDonald-Ryan, Brianne Milano, Molly Peterson, Hillary Rollins,
Anthony Selvitella, Robyn Smith, Karen Sorenson, David Strunk, Seth Wong, Catherine Yasuda
Hollywood Duck Club 47
439 Joe Barale, Pete Barale, Robert Franco, Erik Hora, Ron Hora
Holmestead Farms
45
207
Fred Holmes, Emanual Ramirez
Larsen Ranch
9
18
Bob Larsen, Kris Shorrock
Litte Dry Creek Farms 72
394
Judy Oswald, Ashlyn Jackson, Randy Hurst
Lucky Ten Ranch
15
36
Phil Debret, Bryon Debret, Emily Gigliotti,
Jim Gigliotti, Samantha Gigliotti, Tom Gigliotti, Angelina Hamilton, Joe O'Neal, Janet Questoni
M & T Chico Ranch
23
75
Cody Schumacher
Murdock Gun Club I
67
269
Murdock Gun Club II 104
1,953
Brian O'Connor, Kathi O'Connor
North Colusa
3
31
Gene Beauchamp, Dennis Corvello, Matt Meyer
Oakland Associates 16
56
Steve Hanson, Steven Kolnes
Duck Club
Packer Road
12
89
Gene Beauchamp, Dennis Corvello, Matt Meyer
Paradise Duck Club
20
152
Jim Carr, Kim Carr, Mike Hyde, Mike Johnson,
Zack Johnson, Mike Salca, Leo Trombley
Prime Time Duck Club 60
785
Don Springer
Rancho Esquon
61
151
Loretta Gardiner, Jesse Spencer
Riverside Cottage
2
3
Larry Jendro, Kris Shorrock, Merilee Stover
WELCOME TO THE NEST
Caroline Brady Joins the CWDP Team
Caroline Brady is the newest addition to the California
Waterfowl family, joining us as the Wood Duck Program
Coordinator. A passionate waterfowler, Caroline has worked,
volunteered, and hunted in all four major flyways. In the
spring of 2011, she worked as a crew leader for California
Waterfowl’s nest searching and banding team at Grizzly
Island Wildlife Area. Finding over 1,000 nests, the experience
left Caroline in awe of the flyway’s waterfowl. When the
Wood Duck Program Coordinator position was announced
last summer, she knew it was the perfect opportunity for her.
Caroline received her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental
Forest Biology from the State University of New York (her
home state) in 2006. She completed her Master's at the
University of Western Ontario in 2009 in association with
Long Point Waterfowl. Her thesis explored possible causes of
the decline in the continental scaup population.
Since she left New York in 2006, Caroline has worked in
various waterfowl field positions in the Prairie Pothole Region,
the Great Lakes Region, Hudson Bay Lowlands, and the
Pacific Flyway for numerous organizations including Delta
Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, North Dakota Game and Fish,
University of Minnesota, Long Point Waterfowl, Ontario
Ministry of Natural Resources, University of Alaska Fairbanks,
Alaska Fish and Wildlife Service, and US Geological Survey.
From working on mallard duckling survival using radio
telemetry, to rounding up and banding thousands of Canada
and snow geese, Caroline has an extensive resume that truly
demonstrates her passion for waterfowl.
“This is a great opportunity to work with the nation’s most
successful statewide waterfowl conservation program,”
commented Caroline. “I am excited to work with the
volunteers to help the California Wood Duck Program
continue to thrive.”
Caroline can be contacted at (916) 648-1406 x101 or
cbrady@calwaterfowl.org.
# of BOXES
WOOD DUCK REPORT
PROJECT NAME
35
WOOD DUCK REPORT
PROJECT NAME
2012 Frank Bellrose Award Recipient
Dr. Frank C. Bellrose was one of the pioneers of wood
duck nesting research. His career-long commitment to
understanding wood duck biology began in the late 1930s,
which resulted in the development of predator-proof nest
boxes. His lifelong dedication to waterfowl, especially the
wood duck, is why the California Wood Duck Program
(CWDP) honors one outstanding volunteer each year.
The 2012 Frank Bellrose Award recipient is Darold Givens
of Foster City Rod and Gun Club. Givens passion for
wood ducks has driven his work in nest box building, hen
banding, consulting and assisting with new wood duck
projects, and fundraising for the program. Givens and his
fellow club members manage more than 130 nest boxes at
several project locations. The CWDP is proud to honor
his years of dedication.
# of DUCKLINGS
VOLUNTEERS
DISTRICT 3 (cont.)
DAROLD GIVENS
36
# of BOXES
Givens, longtime member of the Foster City Rod and Gun
Club, was introduced to California Waterfowl by fellow club
member and former California Waterfowl Board Director,
Walt Caldwell. He suggested the club get involved in the
CWDP by building and installing nest boxes for a project
along the American River. Coincidentally, Givens’ son was
looking for an Eagle Scout Project at the same time, and he
soon found himself coordinating construction with the club
and the scout troop. Hooked, Givens built more boxes for
the Laughing Mallard Duck Club. Other clubs took notice
and wanted to learn more about the CWDP. Givens also
played in integral role in expanding the nest box program at
Sacramento, Delevan, and Colusa National Wildlife Refuges.
Givens will be presented with his award at the Wood
Duck Program banquet in April.
89
461
John Eadie and UC Davis Students
Roosevelt Ranch
RSCT, Inc.
5
8
Tom Orgain
Sanborn Slough
20
52
Bruce Gallaway, Joseph Lerch
Seven Mile
28
266
Bryan Guy, Randy Legg
Silver Bullet Farms
11
26
Chuck Oliver
Sutter Buttes Boys Club 35
85
Vic Parachini, Don Sande, Walt Sikes
UC Davis - Putah Creek 26
230
& Russell Ranch
Vann Brothers Pioneer 31
469 Jeanne Cave, Johnny Drury, Matthew Drury, Morgan Drury
Duck Club
Wilderness Unlimited
- Argo & Vickery Farms 755
- Butte Creek Farms
65226
- Freshwater Club
793
- Keeley Club
15145
- Lonestar Duck Club 883
- Ohm Road Club
9114
- Pintail II 1038
Willow Creek
84
1,429
Harlan Albers, Curtis Amaro, Johnny Amaro,
Wood Ducks
Randy Hanson, Troy Hanson
Woody Lake Laboure 9
100
Matthew Brincat, Todd Brincat, Troy Brincat,
Edwin Laboure, Tim Loutz, Devin Mennecke, Kate Mennecke, Joe Palacio, Matt Van Grupen
DISTRICT 4
Arnold Ranch Duck Club
California Farms
Contra Costa County -
EBMUD East Austin Creek
Felipe's
Friend
Gagliasso
3
5
3
14
Greenhead Duck Club
Green Valley Creek
Grizzly Duck Club Grizzly Ranch
Holland Tract
Humphrey
Just for Ducks
Knoxville
Machado
24
12
25
12
28
3
28
12
9
McDaniel
Nutz & Boltz
Peaceful Glen
18
9
4
70
24
33
Phoenix Mallard Slayer 9
P Smith
16
Rockville Park
15
Rich Island 18
506
105
141
Mike Lenzi
Thomas Clough
Robert (Bart) Bartholomew, Doris Kretschmer,
Douglas Vaughn
0
Ken Murray
27
Aaron Ray
0
Michelle Friend
133
Carolyn Franco, Robert Franco, Gordon
Gagliasso, Mike Lenzi, Steve Mortensen
130
Kevin Brush, Malina Brush, Trinity Brush
51 Anthony Iaccarino, John Iaccarino, John Marasco, Theresa Scopazzi
150
Rich Tesene
60
Jim Flook, Robert Franco
110 Frank Higgins, Pete Margiotta, Ted Toland, John Winther
28
John Humphrey
56
Robert Franco, Brian Murphy
0
William Shepard
71
Don Alvarado, Sam Alvarado, Robert Franco, Ted
Gross, Ken Machado, Steve Mortensen, Kelly Rathburn
146
Joeni McDaniel, Gary McDaniel, Gianna Rose McDaniel
81
Brian Kendall, Erick Ocenasek, Karlie Ocenasek
8
Bob Brown, Jeanie Brown, Robert Franco, Dave
Howes, Steve Mortensen
0
Aaron Ray
46
Robert Franco, Mike Lenzi, Pete Smith
70
Ken Gardiner, Mike Lenzi
0
Matt Meyer, Mike Souza, Gabe Tabib
# of BOXES
# of DUCKLINGS
VOLUNTEERS
BIRDS OF A FEATHER
DISTRICT 4 (cont.)
Siena-Rose
10
60
Sunrise Island Duck Club 11
52
Webb Tract
28
9
9
56
Robert Franco, John Hasbrook, Erin Hasbrook,
Dave Howes, Steve Mortensen
Robert Franco, John Galletti, Mike Lenzi, Joe
Perez, Kelly Perez, Mike Perez
Frank Higgins, Pete Margiotta, Ted Toland, John Winther
WOOD DUCK REPORT
PROJECT NAME
DISTRICT 5
Mike Kelly, Monsanto, Rick Sanders
24
175
Austin Brown, Dale Carney, Justin Carney, Paul
DeCloedt, Tyler Decloedt, Nate Ellis, Bo Lawson, Brett Lawson, Hunter Lawson, Brian Shea, Jim VonSeabach
Bettis
7
17
Frank Bettis, Sue Bettis
Bourn
4
Clover Valley Creek
3
Conaway Ranch
65
Cosumnes River
103
Preserve Footrot Flats
50
Garden River
3
Gem Lake
11
Greenberg
7
Lincoln High School 94
Lowden Bridge
6
Moe
8
Neal 2
North Delta Conservancy I 300
North Delta Conservancy II 25
North Delta Conservancy III 14
North Delta Conservancy IV 80
North Pleasant
Grove Creek
Poletta Farms
8
39
35
647
427
413
36
0
77
755
15
38
2
2,360
202
122
427
109
Steve Bourn
Dave Leary
Jon Beck , Anne Burris, Jim Dunn, Cathie LaZier,
Eric Ross, Nancy Sage, Mike Savino, Sean Wirth
Doug Bryan, Austin Dollahite, Bill McLean
Rocky Schotsal
Mary Boudinot, Jimmy Dofflemyer, Dave Rathbun
Stuart Greenberg
Dave Foxworthy, Mark Fowler, Lincoln High School Students
Rick Sanders, Bill Schreckengost
Rich Moe
Mike Neal
Walter Chumeley; John Erikson, Sr.; Mike Miller; Ed Snyder
Valerie Berg, Vicki Butler
Uslan Family
Clarksburg Boy Scout Troop 83, John Erickson,
Russell Van Loben Sels
Colby Heaton, Clark Squires
13
97
Austin Brown, Dale Carney, Justin Carney, Paul
DeCloedt, Tyler DeCloedt, Bo Lawson, Brett Lawson, Hunter Lawson, Jim VonSeabach
Prothero
20
343
Robert Franco, George Harders, Steve
Mortenson, Raymond Prothero, Shelby Prothero
Red Ranch 9
32
Gary Roussan
Rickey Ranch
9
155
Greg Damitz, Sr.; Greg W. Damitz, Jr.
Secret Ravine
4
38
Paul R. Carlson
Silvergate Mitigation Bank 43
201
Patrick Shea, Gaylene Tupen
South Butte Hunting Club 19
313
Robert Franco, George Harders, Steve Mortenson,
Raymond Prothero, Shelby Prothero
South Pleasant Grove 18
318
Greg Damitz, Sr.; Greg W. Damitz, Jr.
Township South
24
193
Doug Bryan, Austin Dollahite, Bill Mclean
Tule Basin Duck Club 9
25
Lynn Horn
West Davis Pond
12
223
John McNerney, Rick Sanders
Whitney Oaks
3
32
Edward Price
Wild Goose Club
138
1,616
Trish Kerhoulas, JP Stover
Wildnerness Unlimited 12
87
- North Sutter
William Pond
8
32
Erik Gantenbein, Tad Gantenbein
>> About one-third of all wood ducks breed where they winter. Some pair bonds are formed
as early as late October, and pairing continues through the fall and winter. By late February,
about 90 percent of hens have mates. | PHOTO BY TED BEEDY
>> The drake” woodie” follows the female in the search for the perfect nest site. They
can spend several hours inspecting possible nest sites. This trail cam image captured some
“house shopping.” | PHOTO BY GREG GALLI
>> Large breast muscles and wings (in relation to body size) enable wood ducks to leap
quickly into vertical flight and allow them to bank quickly side-to-side when in flight.
| PHOTO BY MIKE PETERS
American River
Downtown
Bear River
37
WOOD DUCK REPORT
CONTACT
INFORMATION
>> To get involved in the California Wood Duck Program,
contact your local district manger.
DISTRICT 1
Jim Burton & Missi Nelson – (530) 258-3206
Craig Ferrari – (530) 268-1661
Jeff Cook – (530) 354-2126
DISTRICT 3
Steve Mortensen – (707) 592-5545
DISTRICT 4
Robert Franco – (707) 290-3601
Gordon Gagliasso – (707) 224-7336
Aaron Ray – (415) 902-7491
DISTRICT 5
Ray Prothero – (707) 448-7624
Carl Miller – (916) 225-9735
>> District managers (DMs) DISTRICT 6
spend countless hours every Ken Murray – (209) 467-0981
year training new volunteers
and visiting projects within DISTRICT 7
their districts, in addition Sandy Ferreira, Program Chair – (925) 420-6256
to monitoring their own
wood duck projects. Many DISTRICT 8
of the DMs wear multiple Gary Owens – (805) 772-5229
hats within the Wood Duck
DISTRICT 9
Program, with some serving Rick Knoerschild - (559) 977-9351
as fundraisers and donors,
and others coordinating field DISTRICT 10
days and banquets. California Ken Barton – (818) 367-4158
Waterfowl would like to
PROGRAM
thank DMs and the hundreds
COORDINATOR
of other volunteers who are
Caroline Brady – (916) 648-1406 x101,
willing to serve in numerous
cbrady@calwaterfowl.org
roles to keep the Wood Duck
* Districts not listed have open
Program going.
district manager positions
38
PROJECT
CONTRACTING
Did you know that California Waterfowl can manage your
wood duck project for you? Trained California Waterfowl
staff will assess the best locations on your property for box
placement, install boxes, perform regular box checks, and band
hens throughout the nesting season. Contracts include an endof-season report, complete with your property’s unique nesting
summary. To begin the contract process, contact Caroline
Brady at (916) 648-1406 x101 or cbrady@calwaterfowl.org.
PROJECT NAME
# of BOXES
# of DUCKLINGS
VOLUNTEERS
DISTRICT 6
Barker
62
601
Jim Barker, Brooke Leoni
East Stockton Water District 15
164
Ken Murray
Flowers WDP
5
25
Ken Murray
French Camp Slough 10
143
Ken Murray
Kautz Ironstone Winery 50
351
Claudia Valente, Gary Valente, Joe Valente
McDonald
43
430
Jim Paroli, Ruben Vega
New Hogan Lake
27
12
Gary Basile, Stagg Highschool, University of the Pacific
Quimby Island
50
298
Lawrence Watty
Rossini Family Company 37
36
Frank Canela, Brian Franzia
San Joaquin River NWR 52
193
Dennis Woolington
Santa Fe Aggregates 4
32
Scott Ross
- Waterford
Swan Lake
2
16
Bill Keller, Quinlynn Keller, Penny Keller, William Keller
Venice Island
39
217
Joe Godinez, Calfiornia Waterfowl Contract
Wilderness Unlimited Dennis Corvello, Nick Jamison, Bill Jeans, Matt Meyer
- Mariner Ranch
538
- San Joaquin River
8110
- Trion Ranch
11108
Williams Ranch
13
134
Ken Murray
DISTRICT 7
Arroyo Del Valle
Lakeside Ranch
Quarry Lakes
3
28
10
8
82
0
Sunol Regional Wilderness 24
97
Ralph Moir
Del Evans, Richard Mortela
Emily Brownlee, Sharon Dulava, John Mena,
Dave Riensche
Joanne Dixon, Mike Dudgeon, Dalores Dueñas,
Erica Herron, Bob Pike, James Shea
DISTRICT 8
Camp Roberts
Santa Rita Ranch
24
4
128
36
Fred Harpster, Justin McKeague, Gary Owens
Fred Harpster, Gary Owens
Dawan's Chesapeake
Wood Ducks
Exeter Duck Club
Hunt Farms
Flying M Ranch
Grissom Ranch
Hollister Gun Club
Kingsberg Gun Club
15
0
9
11
69
9
28
35
73
150
600
134
31
245
Merced River
River Ranch
San Luis NWR
Santa Fe Aggregates,
Inc. - Winton
Ulysse J. Breaux
101
14
29
14
Steve Simmons
Steve Simmons
Jim Dunn, Steve Simmons, Nancy Sage
Steve Simmons
John Cerruti
Fred Harpster, Dan Mitchell, Danny Mitchell,
Gary Owens Fred Harpster
1,199
Steve Simmons
84
Fred Harpster, Carol Harpster, Gary Owens
127 Brandon Jordan, Dennis Woolington, Maureen Woolington
61
Scott Ross
24
195
DISTRICT 9
Dawan Lee
Elysse Breaux, Rick Breaux
# of BOXES
# of DUCKLINGS
VOLUNTEERS
STRAIGHT FROM THE NEST
DISTRICT 10
California Living
5
Museum
Tulare Basin
38
Wetlands Association
19
Gwen Hartman, Andrew Kenyon, Don Richardson
124
WOOD DUCK REPORT
PROJECT NAME
Ken Barton, Andrew Kenyon
DISTRICT 11
NO RESULTS REPORTED
DISTRICT 12
NO RESULTS REPORTED
DISTRICT 13
Camp Cody Wildlife Area 2
0
Andrew Kenyon, Bruce Kenyon
DISTRICT 14
SoCal Wood Ducks
Whelan Lake
148
12
1,964
40
>> Historically wood ducks would build their nests in holes or rotted hollows they found in old
or damaged trees typically in forested riparian habitat. Not all cavities are created equal; they
must be deep and roomy, because wood ducks cannot enlarge them. The cavity must also
contain some soft material for covering eggs since the hens do not carry in material like most
other birds. | PHOTO BY HARLAN ALBERS
David Mehollovitch, Gordon Outhier, Linda Violett
Tom Clotfelter
TOTAL
5,48540,288
BOXES
DUCKLINGS
YEARLY WOOD DUCK PRODUCTION
-
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
1991
1992
1993
1994
>> Luckily wood ducks will also use handmade nest boxes to lay their eggs and incubate
them for about 30 days. Ducklings only stay in the nest box for about 24 hours before the
hen calls them out – and away they go!| PHOTO BY HARLAN ALBERS
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
>> Nest boxes are intended for wood ducks but are often used by other wildlife. Saw whet owls
will utilize nest boxes as a safe spot to hatch and rear their young. | PHOTO BY JOHN RATCLIFFE
2010
2011
621,021 Ducklings Produced Since 1991
2002
39
WOOD DUCK REPORT
A SCOUT STEPS UP
BY ROBERT FRANCO, FAIRFIELD, CA
STUDENT BOX PROJECTS
BY DOUGLAS J. HIRSCH, COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE CHARTER SCHOOL
The Community Collaborative Charter School (CCCS)
students and AmeriCorps members combined efforts to
build and install 73 wood duck boxes. CCCS mostly serves
students who have an urban background, with little exposure
or experience with wildlife habitats. Student Forrest Crawley
made this observation: “We wanted to give back to nature.
By building these artificial homes for the ducks, we increased
their chance of successful procreation for the next ten years.”
This past season, California Waterfowl members John and
Josh Barlow coordinated and constructed nest boxes as
part of Josh’s Eagle Scout project. With the assistance of 40
volunteers of all ages, a local church in North Highlands,
and 188 volunteered hours, Barlow’s project produced 43
nest boxes. All of the nest boxes were distributed to new and
existing projects in the CWDP this past spring in the hope
of housing families of wood ducks. Thanks to scouts like
Barlow, the CWDP will continue to prosper and promote a
promising future for wood ducks across the state.
During the project, students learned new skills by building the
boxes. The Home Depot provided a four-hour safety training
on power tools.
CCCS students learned to work in teams with the AmeriCorps
members, each making an important contribution to the whole
wood duck project. “We all worked together to see the wood duck
boxes completed,” commented student Antonio Montanez.
>> Josh and John Barlow delivered nest boxes from Josh’s Eagle Scout Project to CWDP District 3
Manager, Steve Mortensen. | PHOTO BY ROBERT FRANCO
WOOD DUCK PROGRAM SPONSORS
The following individuals and companies donated $100 or
more in 2011 to support the California Wood Duck Program.
California Waterfowl and the Wood Duck Program committee
and volunteers would like to recognize these individuals for their
generosity and financial commitment to wood duck conservation.
40
Thomas & Roxanne Aitchison
Bank of Stockton
James & Constance Barker
Peter & Kirsten Bedford
George & Marilyn Brown
Bill Brush
Rich Bunton
Richard Buscaglia
CASL Industries, LLC
R. Alan Cotton
Thomas Cundith
Stephen DeMaria
Douglas Lynn Company
Graydon & Holly Eliot
Clifford Feldheim
Thomas Fellner
George Guppy
Richard Hardin
Kenneth Hecht
Cory & Gretchen Higgins
Frank & Janet Higgins
JMSK Buttler, LLC
Richard Keely
Antonio Margiotta
Peter & Patsy Margiotta
Rick Martellaro
Eugene & Deborah McCabe
David McEuen
John & Tracey Millham
Bob & Viki Murphy
Stephen Parks
Michael Parsons
Deborah Pitts
James Ryan
Jerral & Sigrid Seibert
David & Donna Shera
Kursten & Adrienne
Sheridan
Randall & Doris Smith
Herbert & Ann Tasker
Vernetta Tenente
C.E.Toland
Van Pelt Construction
Services
Douglas Watson
Donovan Wilson
John L. & Patricia Winther
John R. & Heather Winther
VOLUNTEERS
The California Wood Duck
Program would also like to
recognize these volunteers
who served the program in
ways other than monitoring
nest boxes.
James Allen
Matt & Anna Bagwell
John & Josh Barlow
Bill Bruce
Cub Scout Pack #191
Cub Scout Pack #332
Eagle Scout Troop #260
Eagle Scout Troop #752
Ray Knight
Nathan Taft Sonnenberk
John Wolf
PHOTO BY TED BEEDY
>> Herrgesell (right) accepted her Artemis Award from California
Waterfowl Board Directors Tracey Fremd and Bill Wright.
2011
ARTEMIS
AWARD
by TRACEY FREMD,
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL BOARD DIRECTOR
California Waterfowl is proud to honor
Susan Herrgesell, President of Becoming
an Outdoors-Woman, California, with
the 2011 Artemis Award. The Artemis
Award was created by California
Waterfowl to honor a woman's lifetime
contribution to wetlands conservation
and our hunting heritage.
Herrgesell’s significant lifetime contribution
to our hunting heritage has spanned almost
30 years. As a former employee of the
Department of Fish and Game (DFG),
she coordinated environmental education
programs, training teachers to incorporate
environmental education concepts and
activities into their existing curriculum.
Under Governor Pete Wilson, she served as
the Chair of the Resources Agency Mentor
Program, a program designed to assist atrisk youth in California.
In 1997 she was appointed as the
California Coordinator of Becoming an
Outdoors-Woman, which is a nationwide
program that promotes opportunities for
women to receive instruction in firearms
and firearm safety, hunting, archery,
fishing, outdoor cooking, map and
compass use, kayaking, backpacking,
and off-road vehicles. When budget
constraints hit DFG in 2003, Herrgesell
continued the program by creating a
nonprofit organization. Today, Becoming
an Outdoors-Woman, California, has
educated nearly 6,000 women and
currently holds workshops and outdoor
trips every month.
John Carlson, Jr., President of California
Waterfowl and longtime friend and
colleague of Herrgesell’s, commented,
"Susan's dedication and drive to introduce
women to hunting and the great outdoors
is unparalleled! I wholeheartedly support
and applaud her efforts."
Herrgesell was presented with her award
earlier this month at the California
Waterfowl dinner in Willows. The event
was attended by many of her colleagues
and friends.
California Waterfowl and Becoming
an Outdoors-Woman are partnering to
increase opportunities for women in the
outdoors. Please visit www.calwaterfowl.
org and www.bowca.org to learn more.
Artemis is the Greek goddess of the hunt.
California Waterfowl encourages women to
participate in the great outdoors. Previous
Artemis Award recipients include Ellie
Sharp, Betty Adamson, and Holly Heyser.
Concrete & Irrigation Products Division
“Precast Concrete Irrigation & Hunting Structures
&
• Single, Double, Triple & Dog Duck Blinds
22332 W. 3rd Ave.
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Stevinson, CA 95374
Direct Line: 209-632-0057
Phone: 209-632-0508 or 209-634-4836
Fax: 209-632-8198
Email: mbiconcrete@machadobackhoe.com
Class A Lic# 732637
• Water Control Weirs
• Irrigation Structures
• Concrete Boxes
• Waterman & Fresno Valves
• Slide Gates
• Polyethylene & PVC Pipe
• Fittings & Adhesives
Natalie C. M. Pires, MBA
41
5 QUESTIONS
5 QUESTIONS WITH
CHUCK BONHAM
California Waterfowl had the chance sit down with Chuck Bonham, the newly-appointed Director
of the Department of Fish and Game (DFG). Chuck shared a little about his past experience, as well
as his plans for partnering with California Waterfowl in the future.
>>Chuck Bonham, Director, Department of Fish and Game
SOME PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED
TO LEARN YOU LIVED IN WEST AFRICA.
WHAT DID YOU DO THERE?
I joined the Peace Corps after college and ended up in
Senegal, West Africa. It was one of the most formative
experiences of my life. I was part of a small business
development program for rural communities that
helped people increase their economic independence.
I started a garden project and tree nursery with local
women. I spent two years in the service and wouldn’t
trade it for the world.
YOU WORKED AT TROUT UNLIMITED FOR
10 YEARS BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
AS DFG DIRECTOR. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO
UTILIZE THAT EXPERIENCE WITH DFG?
While at Trout Unlimited I had the great pleasure
of meeting other individuals and organizations
across the state. Having been a “customer” of
the Department, I have a unique perspective
on running the Department. Relationships are
the core to getting things done. Because of my
experience, I love public-private partnerships.
That’s the kind of relationship we already have
and expect to grow with California Waterfowl.
42
YOU’RE A LIFELONG OUTDOORSMAN; WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR
FAVORITE ACTIVITIES?
I bet a lot of your members are like me in thinking that nothing is better
than getting up at 4:00 am and packing up in the cold to head outdoors to
somewhere special. That’s me. I love back country wild lands, and the remote
rivers and streams of California. That’s what led me to Trout Unlimited,
inspired me to get a law degree, and now to join the Department.
Lately, I’ve been fishing and surfing a lot. I also enjoy running trails in
the mountains, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. I have not
hunted and instead spent my time fishing, but I grew up in a hunting
family in Georgia and South Carolina, with a Grandfather who was a
serious hunter. I suspect John [Carlson] will invite me to the duck blind
soon. I’m open to going with him, I support hunting, and the Department
supports hunting.
HOW DO YOU SEE DFG AND CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL WORKING
TOGETHER IN THE FUTURE?
A couple ideas come to mind. Land stewardship is something we already
partner on. Your ability to facilitate land restoration is especially critical
for waterfowl and especially important during these difficult budget times.
Working together to provide more access and opportunities to hunt also
comes to mind. And determining where the next generation of hunters
and anglers will come from. It’s a tough question for California Waterfowl
and the Department. I am 43 and am considered young. If we are serious
about passing on the legacy, we have got to get serious about partnering
and planning to recruit the next generation.
WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON FOR CALIFORNIA’S
WATERFOWL AND WETLANDS IN 2012?
We’ve been experiencing some record numbers and, as a result,
getting some of the best opportunities this state has seen. If we
get excellent nesting conditions in Canada again, we should get
another great fall flight in 2012. If that’s the case, we can expect
similar regulations in 2012. But this year we all have to pay
attention to the budget cuts. The state and federal budgets are
dire and we will have to enhance partnerships to keep programs
funded.
I want to thank John and California Waterfowl members for
the chance to introduce myself. I look forward to seeing you
at events and afield.
GROWING
PARTNERSHIP
IN THE
TULARE BASIN
BY JONATHAN PICKETT, CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL TULARE BASIN REGIONAL BIOLOGIST
>> Jon Pickett is a regional biologist for California Waterfowl and the Tulare Basin Wetlands Association. He will be overseeing enhancement projects in the region for the 2012 construction season.
Keeping water on the wetlands is a neverending battle in the Tulare Basin. Where
there were at one time over 100 duck
clubs, today a little more than 30 remain.
California Waterfowl was awarded a $1 million North American
Wetland Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant in 2011 for conservation
efforts in the Tulare Basin region. This was the second grant of this
magnitude for the region. The success of past NAWCA projects led to
high demand for California Waterfowl and TBWA to implement more
habitat projects together. As we complete the first phase of the Southern
San Joaquin Valley project during the 2012 construction season, with
projects on Kern National Wildlife Refuge and Mendota Wildlife Area,
we will also be submitting a second phase of the grant to further restore
and enhance habitat in the region. I will be working with TBWA clubs
to locate critical habitat in need of restoration and enhancement.
Keeping water on the wetlands is a never-ending battle in the Tulare
Basin. The ongoing challenge of increasing wetland maintenance
costs has caused the Tulare Basin region to suffer great declines in
wetland acreage compared to other California regions that have
more plentiful and less costly water supplies. Where there were at
one time over 100 duck clubs, today a little more than 30 remain.
As a biologist representing California Waterfowl and TBWA, helping
preserve the reaming clubs by ensuring economical and functional
water delivery is a top priority.
Implementing infrastructure projects that help reduce operational
cost and wetland habitat enhancements to help conserve water is
just a portion of my job. I will also be representing TBWA and
ensuring the Tulare Basin is not overlooked by governing forces.
Drawing outside attention to the region will help promote TBWA’s
and California Waterfowl’s conservation goals and restoration needs.
As we move into the future, the Tulare Basin wetland landscape will
continue to grow from habitat conservation by both organizations,
providing essential wetlands for wintering wildlife. I am excited to
be such an integral part in the growth of TBWA’s and California
Waterfowl’s partnership, and I look forward to helping both
organizations execute our shared mission to conserve California’s
waterfowl, wetlands, and hunting heritage.
For information on habitat projects in the
Tulare Basin region, contact Jon Pickett
at jpickett@calwaterfowl.org or (916)6625776. To get connected with a California Waterfowl
wetland biologist in your region, contact cwa@calwaterfowl.org or (916) 648-1406.
>> For more information about the Tulare Basin Wetlands Association, visit www.tbwa.org.
More than 20 years ago, a group of individuals sharing similar
conservation goals came together to form the Tulare Basin Wetland
Association (TBWA), with the intent to identify and represent the
region’s waterfowl and biological needs. It only seemed natural for
California Waterfowl to join forces with the TBWA to preserve the
area’s waterfowl and wetland resources. Since the partnership began,
California Waterfowl and TBWA have worked on numerous projects
together restoring and enhancing thousands of acres. That success
motivated the two groups to expand the partnership in 2011 by
hiring a shared, fulltime biologist in the Tulare Basin region. As that
biologist, I am very excited about implementing the on-the-ground
efforts that will undoubtedly increase the wetland conservation
efforts of both organizations throughout the region.
43
>> Electronic collars can be great aids for training and working in the field. However, warns
Burkholder, using the e-collar inappropriately is
ineffective and could even ruin the dog’s potential as a hunter. | PHOTO BY CHADD SANTERRE
CANINE C RNER
Avoid the Most Common Mistakes Made
With Electronic Collars
by JAN BURKHOLDER, STONEWALL RETRIEVERS
People have trained hunting dogs for centuries without the
use of electronic devices but have always been confronted
with the problem of how to correct a dog that is some distance
from the trainer. Sometime in the middle of the last century,
people began harnessing the power of electricity to help, but it
is unclear when the electric training collar was invented. One
of the pioneers in its use was trainer Rex Carr of Escalon, CA.
Carr’s first attempt at such a collar involved a large battery
attached to his belt, a long electrical cord attached to dog’s collar,
and a button from a doorbell, which he pressed to deliver the
stimulus to the dog.
It is a myth that you can’t quit
before the dog gets it right.
Today’s electronic training collars (e-collars) evolved from
those crude beginnings. E-collars today are of course wireless,
thinner, lighter, and much more sophisticated. They can
deliver precise gradations of electric and other stimuli, such as
vibrations and scents.
44
As prices for these devices have plummeted, more and more
amateurs have begun using them in training their hunting
dogs. Many have great success using these collars, but, as
a trainer, I also see many dogs that retain their bad habits
despite owners who are well-meaning but unskilled at using
the e-collar. Here is a look, in no particular order, at the most
common mistakes I see.
USING THE E-COLLAR TO TEACH THE DOG.
Contrary to what many people believe, an e-collar is
not used to teach a dog how to perform a command.
You must first teach the dog by showing the dog what
it needs to do when the dog is near you and under control
with a leash and a properly fitted choke collar. The e-collar is
not a shortcut that will enable you to skip the teaching phase.
The electronic training collar only comes into use AFTER you
are certain that the dog understands the command and knows
how to perform the task. Then, after you command the dog to
do something, you can use the e-collar to make a correction.
CORRECTING THE DOG AT THE WRONG TIME.
Timing is everything. A correction can only be effective
if it is delivered immediately after the dog has been asked
to perform and failed to do so. Otherwise, the stimulus
is just random, the dog is unable to figure out what to do, and
the situation deteriorates from there. A correction delivered at the
wrong time, or too great a correction for a sensitive dog, can make a
dog spooky and even ruin its chances of being a good hunting dog.
FAILING TO CORRECT THE DOG WITH THE PROPER
AMOUNT OF STIMULATION.
Some people just nag at their dog by using corrections
that are too light. Sometimes they are afraid of increasing
the stimulation level because, they are concerned
about ruining the dog by giving too powerful of a correction.
But nagging can cause the dog simply to ignore the e-collar. A
correction is strong enough when it gets a reaction from the dog.
GETTING ANGRY AT THE DOG WHEN USING AN E-COLLAR.
A collar that is too loose does not deliver the level of
stimulation that the user thinks he or she is delivering.
Sometimes a loose collar is not buzzing the dog at all,
or it may slip and deliver different impulses at different times.
Since the point of using an e-collar is to be able to deliver a
targeted correction at the proper moment, an e-collar that is
too loose fails to be an effective training device.
A trainer who is frustrated and getting angry at the dog
can be tempted to increase or overuse the stimulation
out of his or her own frustration. This is a recipe for
disaster and must be avoided at all costs. Over-correcting a
dog is ineffective. If you feel yourself getting angry, it’s time
to stop and try again on another day after reviewing the
command thoroughly with the dog close by you. It is a myth
that you can’t quit before the dog gets it right. Sometimes it
can be better just to stop, put the dog away, and relax.
Similarly, an e-collar that is too tight can make it difficult for
the dog to breathe, provide too great a stimulus, and, in some
case, lead to injuries on a dog’s neck. Clearly, an overly-tight
collar is a hazard that should be avoided.
PUTTING ON THE E-COLLAR ONLY AFTER THE DOG HAS
MISBEHAVED.
There is no question that e-collars have been a boon to
trainers, but, if you use one, please be sure to learn how to
handle it properly. Always consult a professional if you have
any questions or issues.
Jan Burkholder has been training gun dogs for more than two
decades and owns her kennel, Stonewall Retrievers in Acampo,
CA. Learn more at www.stonewalldogs.com.
If you whip out the e-collar only when the dog is
misbehaving and use it to get him to behave properly,
you will have taught the dog a lesson – but not the
one you intended. You will have taught the dog to view the
e-collar as a punishment, and he may become skittish. Instead,
if the e-collar is routinely used whenever the dog is training
or hunting, he will learn that when he is wearing the e-collar,
it is work time - not playtime - and he won’t be afraid of it.
CANINE CORNER
NOT FITTING THE E-COLLAR PROPERLY.
45
GEAR
GEAR GUIDE
Electronic Collars
>> Spring is here and with it comes a fever for new puppies
and beautiful weather for spring training. Like with most
electronics, the technology for training collars is constantly
improving. Check out our e-collar gear guide for the latest
tech available for your partner in the field.
SPORTDOG WETLANDHUNTER 1825
This electronic remote training collar features up to 16
stimulus levels and a choice of momentary or continuous
correction. Vibration and tone options further help you build a
customized remote training system to guarantee the best performance
from your dog. The SD-1825 can be easily expanded to control up to six
dogs. The SD-1825 system is also fully customizable, allowing you the
flexibility to program two or more transmitters to control the same collar
receiver. With a one-mile range, a slim-profile collar receiver that ensures
a perfect fit, and a compact remote transmitter that’s easy to handle, the
WetlandHunter 1825 delivers SportDOG’s promise: gear the way you’d
design it®. www.sportdog.com
SPORT BASIC G3 EXP
Tri-Tronics’ Sport Basic is a compact, lightweight, ergonomically-designed remote.
Trainer-built and easy to use, the Sport Basic meets Tri-Tronics high standards for
ruggedness and reliability. The Sport Basic is expandable to control up to three
dogs. It also offers 10 levels of momentary and continuous stimulation, a no-stim
setting to avoid accidental stimulation, a half-mile range, and a fixed antenna for
enhanced performance. Both the transmitter and receiver are waterproof, and
the contact points are insulated for reliable performance in wet conditions.
The Sport Basic allows easy one-hand operation so you don’t have to take
your eyes off your dog. Best of all, Tri-Tronics backs the Sport Basic
with a two-year comprehensive warranty. www.tritronics.com
46
Tri-Tronics is a proud corporate partner of California Waterfowl. Look
for the Sport Basic G3 at California Waterfowl’s fundraising events.
GEAR
DT SYSTEMS H2O PLUS COVERUP
DT Systems has added the new H2O 1800 PLUS CoverUp series in Longleaf Fatal
Flight camo, perfect for the wetland hunter. This system covers both basic and advanced
training needs for professionals and novice users alike. Designed with the harshest
environments in mind, the H2O PLUS CoverUp excels whether you are knee-deep
in cold icy waters or knee-deep in tall grass on a dry, sunny day. The system allows
trainers to control up to three dogs at a one-mile range. Both the collar and
transmitter are rechargeable and waterproof, and the transmitter will actually
float on water, perfect for any waterfowler. The H2O 1810 PLUS CoverUp has
16 levels of momentary and continuous stimulations to fine-tune the exact level
for your dog or situation. www.dtsystems.com
DOGTRA EDGE
New for 2012, the Dogtra Edge offers an LCD screen that displays the exact level of stimulation,
mode, and battery life. Both transmitter and receiver are fully waterproof, and the receiver is
equipped with a location light with four color options. The system boasts a one-mile range and
can be expanded for up to four dogs. Extendable contact points and multiple nick, constant,
and pager modes let you create the perfect fit for your dog. Plus, the unit has rapid twohour charge batteries. www.dogtra.com
Congratulations to Lyle Steinman of
Castile Creek Kennels and ZoomDog Jack
on their record-breaking 2nd Crown
Championship
of the Super
Retriever Series.
Jack, at age 8, is
the first dog ever
to win the Crown
twice!!
Hunt Dog Hunt ® Performance
Itchy Dog ® Skin & Coat
Daily Dog ® Vitamin & Mineral
Easy Dog ® Calming & Travel
Order at ZoomDogSupplements.com or call 800-876-8660
2011 SRSC 2009 SRSC 3 X SRS
Fargo's Gulf Coast Jack-Son MNH
47
AVIAN GRADUATION
AVIAN
GRADUATION
by PHILIP ROBERTSON, LINCOLN, CA
Meet Pat and Terry Marmon, their daughter Sherry, and
trusted hound Bo of District 10’s egg salvage operation.
Beginning in March they collect duck eggs (mainly mallard)
from the rice fields of several cooperative farmers in the
vicinity of Marysville. As many as 3,000 eggs are incubated
at the ranch, turning every three hours, for 24-30 days. As the
eggs hatch, the chicks are placed in small warming areas and
eventually moved into larger pens. This series of photos will
carry you from the banding to the "graduation" day.
>> Birds are separated into
groups of 20-25 in the pens.
Since older birds tend to bully
younger ones, several pens are
needed. Pen mates cannot
have an age difference of
more than five days. Visiting
friends Mary, Don, Ruth and
Fran watch the process.
48
>> Each bird visits the banding station. Pat holds the bird
while Terry places a band on its left leg. Pat determines the sex
of the bird, and Terry records data for the banding records.
>> After banding, the ducks are released back into the pens
where they head straight for the water to cool off and relax. Bo
keeps a sharp eye on the flock, and they don't seem to mind.
>> Contact your local egg salvage program
for more information:
Durham: (530) 891-8455
Marysville: (530) 742-5080
Colusa: (530) 458-2620
Live Oak: (530) 695-1769
Courtland: (916) 448-6338
AVIAN GRADUATION
>> Natural, safe nesting habitat is always
the first choice for both nesting hens and
California Waterfowl. While we constantly
strive to create partnerships for more wildlifefriendly agriculture, egg salvage operations
provide important rescue efforts when the
only option is to disturb the fields.
>> The door is opened and graduation commences. Here is
their first taste of freedom! The birds are held at the salvage
facility approximately five weeks to ensure a good survival
rate. Within a week they will be old enough to fly. For now,
there is plenty of food and cover until they fledge. Some will
consider this their home and return year after year.
>> Proud parents! This makes all the work worthwhile! We
owe much to people like Pat, Terry, Sherry, and Jim. We also
owe much to California hunters, without whom we would
have few ducks and even fewer wetlands.
>> After resting for the night in the pens, the ducks are loaded into
carriers, put on the back of a pickup, and driven to one of several
wetland release areas. Here Pat gets help unloading from Jim Perry.
49
PLANNED GIVING
PLANNED
GIVING
Avoiding Capital Gains Taxes
by MARK S. DROBNY, DROBNY LAW OFFICES
Locking in any gains from real estate or appreciated securities
traditionally comes with a cost: capital gains taxes. Most investors
are aware of the fact that you can defer those gains with a 1031
like/kind exchange on real estate. But all that does is trade one
property for another and defer the tax. What has been available
to investors in real estate and appreciated securities for over 40
years is a tool that allows an individual to create a trust, which:
•
•
•
•
•
•
names himself as trustee;
pays all income to herself for life;
liquidates real estate and appreciated securities and pays no capital tax;
obtains a current income tax deduction;
upon death, makes a significant donation to the charity of his choice;
and, doubles or triples the amount of money that will pass to her heirs.
EXAMPLE
Ron and Elaine own a piece of property or investment portfolio
valued at $400,000, which they bought for $100,000. If they
sell it, they will have $300,000 in capital gains. Federal capital
gains taxes are 15 percent, and California capital gains taxes
are nine percent, resulting in taxes due of $72,000. That leaves
only $328,000 to reinvest. If they reinvest that $328,000 at five
percent, there would be $16,500 of income per year.
Instead, they transfer the property to a charitable remainder
trust. They name themselves as co-trustees and beneficiaries.
The trust then sells the property or investment portfolio.
Since it is a charitable trust, it pays no capital gains. The trust
reinvests the entire $400,000 at five percent increasing income
to $20,000 a year.
Unlike a 1031 exchange, which only defers the gain to the next sale,
the sale in a charitable remainder trust of capital assets is tax-exempt.
50
Because the trust irrevocably transfers the property to
California Waterfowl upon both of their deaths, they receive
a charitable deduction on this year’s income tax return for the
present value of the future gift to the charity. This value is a
direct function of the trustors’ age and the rate of return of the
trust. Assuming Ron is 70 years old and Elaine is 68 years old,
the current deduction against income taxes would be $157,412.
If they were 80 and 78, the deduction would be $223,144.
Ron and Elaine then take these tax savings (on the money that
would have gone to the IRS in capital gains taxes but is instead
reinvested in the trust) and purchase life insurance through
an irrevocable life insurance trust. The proceeds of that will
be paid to Ron and Elaine’s heirs upon both of their deaths,
when the proceeds of the charitable remainder trust are paid
to California Waterfowl. Their heirs are happy, because life
insurance proceeds from an irrevocable life insurance trust are
free from federal estate taxes.
In conclusion, if Ron and Elaine utilize a charitable remainder
trust, the entire $400,000 in proceeds is available for reinvestment.
No portion is payable to the government in the form of capital
gains tax. Assuming a five percent payout, that would generate
$20,000 a year of income. The present value of the future gift to
the charity is used as a deduction on this year’s income tax return,
resulting in a $157,412 deduction against other earned income.
Since Ron and Elaine are in the top income tax bracket, this results
in the actual taxes saved of over $73,984. Upon Ron and Elaine’s
death, the life insurance replaces the wealth that was transferred to
California Waterfowl in the form of a check to their heirs, which is
received completely tax free.
If you are holding low-basis real estate or appreciated securities
and would like to lock in your gain without paying any capital
gains tax, then a charitable remainder trust needs your immediate
attention. Not only will you pay no capital gains tax, but you will
generate a significant income tax deduction on this year’s income
tax return, which can be used to offset other income. Contact an
experienced tax attorney as soon as possible in order to ensure
everything is done before Congress changes the tax laws.
>> Mark Drobny is widely regarded as one of the region’s top experts on charitable remainder
trusts and other planned giving concepts. Drobny has practiced law for over 30 years and
founded Drobny Law Offices in 1989. A frequent speaker on estate planning matters, Drobny
has given over 1,000 presentations on the topic. | PHOTO COURTESY OF DROBNY LAW OFFICES
Need help starting the process? Contact Katie McCarty at (916)
648-1406 x 105 for more information.
MEMBER PHOTO
MEMBER
PHOTO
>> Each issue the magazine's Editorial Committee will
select a favorite photo submission from the Take Your Best
Shot Member Photo Contest to feature in the magazine. If
you would like to submit your wildlife, wetland, or hunting
photos, visit www.calwaterfowl.org for instructions.
California Waterfowl member,
Philip Robertson, of Lincoln, CA,
captured this serene shot of a hen
wood duck and her duckling. “I
think there is something peaceful
about it,” noted Robertson.
51
IN MEMORIAM
IN MEMORIAM
IN MEMORY OF CHARLES W. “MICK” BROWN
State University, Sacramento, and a Vietnam
veteran. A 40-year resident of Rescue, CA,
Mick built a log home there and maintained
his favorite pastime of hunting deer and
fishing for trout in the Sierras. From time
to time, he was able to return to his favorite
duck hunting location, the Yolo Bypass.
Business activities included part ownership
in Delta Construction Company, Inc., and
B&B Asphalt in Sacramento, both grading
and paving contracting firms.
Charles W. “Mick” Brown passed away
in Placerville on October 19, 2011. Mick
leaves behind his son, Steven; brother, Skip;
sister-in-law, JoAnne; nephew, Eric; niece,
Rebecca Sommer; cousins, Alan and Donna
Thomas; and many more on the Veerkamp
side of the family.
Mick grew up in Rio Vista fishing for bass
in the Delta and hunting ducks in the Yolo
Bypass. He was a graduate of California
Mick joined California Waterfowl in 1998,
becoming a Life Member in 2002 and a Life
Donor in 2005. Although he was unable
to hunt and fish the last few years due to
ill health, he was still a great supporter of
California Waterfowl and other outdoor
organizations. Mick never missed California
Waterfowl’s El Dorado Dinner.
One of Mick’s favorite projects was his wood
duck nesting boxes around the pond on his
property. Every year he enjoyed four pairs of
wood ducks and their numerous ducklings.
He was a great friend to California Waterfowl
and to all those who knew him. He will be
missed by many.
MEMORIAM GIFTS
52
The following individuals and organizations have contributed to
California Waterfowl in honor of their loved ones:
• Lynn Hoagland in memory of Donald Baim.
• Dallas Duck Club and Jess and Patty Nelson in memory of Joseph DellaMora.
• L. Ryan Broddrick in memory of Lincoln Dennis.
• Michael J. Riley and Richard T. Tarrant in memory of Tim Egan.
• Scott A. Zimmerman in memory of the Rammell Family.
• Nick Ortega in memory of Kent Lewis.
• Paul L. Davies, Jr.; Paul L. Davies, III; John DeDominic; Jerrold B. Harris; and Michael J. Riley in memory of Ray Lewis.
• Sharon P. McGahan in memory of James McGahan.
• Jennifer Williams in memory of Terry Williams.
• David A. Appling, Charles Coiner, Mary Crompton, Jerry Floyd,
Valentino Gangi, Louise Haley, Ruth Irvine, Alan Kiedaisch, Marlene Lamb, Tammy Partlow, James M. Provenzano, Constance T. Sciortino, Vickie Souza, Mr. and Mrs. Gene Torrisi, Eugene J. Torrisi, and Lisa Vischer in memory of Robert Wollbrinck.
TOWNE
COMMERCIALTRUCK
AND FLEET SALES
SINCE 1926
Celebrating 85 years of
business to San Francisco
and Peninsula Residents
1601 EL CAMINO REAL
REDWOOD CITY, CA 94063
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Direct fleet line
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Cell: 415-786-1701
Email: duckhntr55@aol.com
Frank J. Ginotti
Commercial Truck and
Fleet Manager
CWA LIFE BENEFACTOR
DUCKS UNLIMITED SPONSOR
BUSINESS PAGE
BUSINESS PAGE
Birds Landing – 51
Briggs Manufacturing – 59
Capitol Yamaha – 60
Carmichael Honda – 60
CWA Heritage Fund – 06
CWA Hunt Program – 31
CWA Store – 16
CWA Volunteering – 23
Duck Blinds Unlimited – 62
Eagle Lakes – 10
ESP – 17
Feather Ranch Kennels – 41
G& G of Lambertville – 51
Guns, Fishing & Other Stuff – 32
Hastings Island – 15
Hedgerow Farms – 64
Hightest Kennels – 31
Kittles – 56
Loyall – 02
Mathews Farms – 68
MBI Concrete & Irrigation – 47
MTECH, Inc. – 66
NorCal Earthmoving – 64
Pro Line – 67
Proport – 53
Raahauge’s – 22
Specialty Seed Co. – 63
Tanglefree – 03
Tri-Tronics – 45
Towne Ford – 52
Wetland Enhancements, LLC – 22
Winemaker’s Island – 13
Zoom Dog – 47
HUNTER’S
CLASSIFIED
COLLECTOR’S ITEMS
COMING SOON: Nows, Thens, and Other
Times: A Fireside Reader for the Hunter - A
Lifetime of Hunting at home and abroad by Tony
Arnold, Author of Suisun Marsh History and regular
columnist for California Waterfowl. Special introductory
offer of $32.50 for the first 150 orders!For detailed information on contents, inquire at suisunguru@gmail.com
WANTED: Old Wooden Decoys,
Duck Calls, Shell Boxes, Old Fishing
Lures And Reels.
FOR SALE: Matching Numbers Calif.
And Nevada Duck Stamp Prints
(415) 459-8854
CLUBS / REAL ESTATE
YOLO BYPASS CLUB
1200 +/- ac non-farm natural habitat
Adjacent to fish & game refuge
Modern clubhouse, A-1 roads
Independent plentiful water
No hunting assessment
$275,000 / 5% share
Bruce MacBride RLTR (916) 402-7005
CLUBS / REAL ESTATE
DUCK CLUB MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE
Colusa County
For more information, call
(707) 477-4008
www.rsctduckclub.com
INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
INDEX TO
ADVERTISERS
PRUDENTIAL DUNNIGAN REAL ESTATE
Yolo Bypass Duck Club Memberships
Suisun Marsh Recreation Club Property
Contact: Monika 916-396-0945
monika@duckclubsRus.com
www.duckclubsRus.com
FOR SALE
LOS BANOS GRASSLANDS, 5 MEMBERSHIPS
FROM $60,000 & 4 CLUBS STARTING AT $1,800
PER ACRE. ALSO AVAILABLE A 3BR/2BA CABIN ON
WILD DUCK ROAD. FOR MORE INFO CALL CHARLIE
FISHER AT BAILEY PROPERTIES (DRE#00263203)
(888)688-7434 x231 OR (831)818-0408
SPECIALIZING IN THE SALE OF DUCK CLUBS &
DUCK CLUB MEMBERHSIPS IN THE LOS BANOS
GRASSLANDS SINCE 1967. PRIME DELTA
MEMBERSHIP NEAR STOCKTON ALSO AVAILABLE.
FAMILY DUCK CLUB AVAILABLE!!!
WEST VALLEY FLYWAY
3,000 Acres of Flooded Rice
North of Willows
2 & 4 man blinds and dry rice field
goose blinds available.
Call Phil: (530) 518-3619
PREMIUM RECREATION PROPERTY
468 acre N. Dist. 10 Hunt Preserve,
wetlands/uplands, Ducks, Geese,
Pheasants, Turkey, Doves
$2,000/per acre (530) 520-2247
A Rare Find @ $295,000. Questions / Info
Please E-Mail: kdacal@aol.com
CONSERVATION EASEMENTS
As a 501c3 not for profit organization, California
Waterfowl is a qualified conservation easement
holder. Additionally, California Waterfowl has recently
been approved by the California Department
of Fish and Game and the US Fish and Wildlife Service
to hold mitigation and conservation bank easements. If you’re interested in conservation or mitigation
bank easements, please contact Jake Messerli at
916-648-1406 ext 125.
Your source for bird hunting information,
Duck Clubs, Game Bird Clubs, Public Areas,
Hunting Guides, Gun Dogs and more.
South Grasslands – Los Banos Area
• Enjoy Hunting Memories On Your Very Own
Family Duck Club!
• 68 Acre Pond Marsh Surrounded By Historic
Premier Area Duck Clubs
• Ample Buildable Compound Area For Your Trailer
or New Hunting Cabin?
• Well + Septic Tanks + RV Pad + Storage Units
On Premises + Gravel Compound
• Newer Single – Double & Triple Concrete Blinds
With Gravel Paths
• All Weather Easy Access Roads Yet Feel of
Remote & Private Location
• Family Recreational Opportunities Abound!
Waterfowl Hunting, Camping,
• A Real Turn-Key Gem Of A Club + Finally A Place
To Call Your Very Own Retreat!
53
CLASSIFIEDS
CLUBS / REAL ESTATE
MURDOCK GUN CLUB
2,500 acres, 2 miles northwest of
Gray Lodge, bordering Butte Creek
and Upper Butte Sink WA
Rotating and Non Rotating Blinds
For information:
P. O. Box 4801, Chico, CA 95927
(530) 893-1907
www.murdockgunclub.com
WWW.WTMORGAN.COM
for additional information check website
WE NEED LISTING IN THE SUISUN MARSH
SUISUN MARSH
CORDELIA GUN CLUB – 610+/- acres
excellent hunting – call for new price.
BEAR VALLEY – 13,000 +/- acres Winter Cattle
Ranch,hunting deer, wild pigs, and turkey.
HONKER FARMS – 300+/- acres on Van Sickle Island
5,000-sq ft. clubhouse, 17+ blinds on the property.
ANTIOCH-GOLDENEYE DUCK CLUB
(Antioch Portion)-undivided ½ interest
in 290.42+/-acres
BLACK DOG GUN CLUB – 115+/- acres
WESTWIND DUCK CLUB – 351+/- acres
GUM TREE SOUTH – 502+/-acres, front
of Grizzly Bay, Road Access
PENDING SALES
BRASS BUTTONS DUCK CLUB
William T. Morgan Real Estate
License #00318291
(530) 662-8696
NORTH GRASSLANDS CLUB
Near Gustine. Close to Bay Area. Corporate
membership in large well-known historic club.
Excellent kill records. Reasonable annual dues.
Motivated seller. (209) 952-8856
CLUBS / REAL ESTATE
CLUBS / REAL ESTATE
STROMER REALTY COMPANY
OF CALIFORNIA
STROMER REALTY COMPANY
OF CALIFORNIA
TIN CAN LOUIE DUCK CLUB
Beautiful 83 acres in Lambertville with a
gorgeous home and adjoining guest quarters.
The property is in pristine shape along with the
living quarters. Must be seen to be appreciated.
Purchase price - $695,000.
COLUSA COUNTY DUCK CLUB
235 acres located in an excellent flyway for
waterfowl along the 2047 canal. Excellent
opportunity to own a duck hunting property in its
entirety. Purchase price - $625,000.
FRANCO’S DUCK CLUB
Ten percent (10%) interest
In 134 acre duck club in Lambertville. A very nice hunting marsh with a clubhouse.
SWANSTON RANCH DUCK CLUB
We have several parcels
for sale ranging from
140 acres to 382 acres in
this “premier” ranch. We have
personally hunted the ranch
with limits of mallards in less
than an hour. Call us for details.
107 ACRES SACRAMENTO RIVER
This recreation property is an
outdoor sportsman’s paradise.
This property’s abundance of fish
and wildlife offers a fabulous
opportunity for a top notch, quality
hunting and fishing club.
NINELANDS DUCK CLUB
194 acres of pristine duck hunting property in
the Suisun Marsh. Large club house, gravity flow
water and minutes from the bay area.
Purchase Price - $375,000.
TEAL RIDGE DUCK CLUB
Do you want to have your
your own waterfowl refuge?
At 2,400 acres, m/l you can
have it all with this property.
Call us for details.
EXCLUSIVE PREMIER HUNTING CLUB
“OLD TRADER VIC’S” Established in the 1950’s.
681 acres, m/l, plus outstanding clubhouse and
headquarters in the heart of the upper Butte Sink
and surrounded by “top” producing duck clubs in
the Butte Basin waterfowl area.
Purchase price – $3,500,000.
BUTTE LAND COMPANY
87.5% ownership interest
121 acre Butte Land Company.
Superior location. One-half mile east
of the U. S. Fish & Wildlife
“Bean Field Sanctuary.”
(530) 671-2770
stromerrealty.com
EXCLUSIVE BUTTE SINK DUCK CLUB
1/7th ownership interest.
Prestigious 5,000 sq. ft. hunting lodge.
Purchase Price - $300,000.
DUCK AND GOOSE HUNTERS
Call NOW for Available Blinds
(530) 671-2770
stromerrealty.com
NO. BUTTE DUCK CLUB
54
GARY MILLER REALTY
Duck Clubs for Sale
(530) 741-3494
(530) 304-7889
OWNERSHIPS FOR SALE:
Field & Tule Duck Club
Live Oak Duck Club
Mallard Pacific Duck Club as well as other
Sac Valley & Butte Sink hunting properties
www.garymillerrealty.com
Proprietary membership in 10 member Butte
Sink club.
Free water, excellent facilities and grounds.
(400+/- acres) Price: $600,000.
Call 916-485-9164.
Serious inquiries only.
To place an ad, contact
California Waterfowl at
(916) 648-1406 x 127
BUTTE CITY HUNTING CLUB
“Located in the Butte Creek Flyway.”
We offer Clubhouse, Bunkhouse, Hot Shower
Facility and secured trailer parking
Call: (530) 982-0234
or go online to buttecityhuntingclub.com
DOGS
DIAMOND P LABRADORS
Patti Jo Scott & Ron Burger
Field Trial & Gun Dog Puppies
4699 Ryer Road East
Walnut Grove, CA 95690
(916) 775-0089 • www.diamondplabs.com
FOR SALE
MEXICO, HERMOSILLO
3 Days Doves – From $1,550
LOVE'S LABRADORS
Young Gun Dog
Training and Breeding
Puppies and Started Labs
www.loveslabradors.net
#541-580-5159
RETRIEVER TRAINING
“Specializing in making your best friend
your best hunting partner!”
Started Gun Dogs Available
Located on CRTA’s “Goose Lake”
Training Grounds, Lost Hills, CA
Brian Clasby
661/304-6018
www.runninretrievers.com
Trained retrievers for sale
ready for the duck blind
PIN-MARK RETRIEVERS
Ted Robinson
530-635-3333
www.pin-mark.com
DUCKWORTH RETRIEVERS
Complete Retriever Training Program
For Hunt Test and Gun Dogs
Using the Gentle Approach
Started Dogs Available for the
Discriminating Sportsman
LYNN HANIGAN
210 Leach Drive, Midland, OR 97634
(541) 882-6137
e-mail: fetchhold@hotmail.com
www.duckworthretrievers.com
ARGENTINA DOVES & PIGEONS
3 Days $1,995
OWN A PART OF
HISTORY
Master Carver Tom Taber is best
known for carving ducks, geese,
pheasants, and shorebirds.
FOR SALE: The business
Oregon Wildlife Carvings along
with all of Tom’s master carvings
(over 150 originals). Each
carving can be duplicated on a
CNC or duplicating machine.
For more information:
(541) 431-6900
www.oregonwildlife.com
EQUIPMENT
(209) 366-2816 | www.stonewalldogs.com
Retriever Training – PuppiesStarted Dogs For sale
Jared Rocha
(209) 648-8690 www.rocharetrievers.com
WESTERN WILDLIFE
ADVENTURES, LLC
236-A W. East Avenue, PMB 349
Chico, CA 95926
Phone andFax: (866) 748-1277
Website: www.wildlifeadv.com
NEVADA MULE DEER HUNT
Special guides draw ~ Guided
(2x1 Hunt) $4300 / Hunter
Food, Lodging, Transportation
California Private Land Turkeys
Fully guided, special season
Lunch included ~ $500
CENTRAL CALIF. PIG HUNTS
1-2 hunters on Private Prop.
One day guided Hunt - $600
SERVICES
SACRAMENTO HUNTERS
Game Dinners!
Let award winning Maranello Restaurant
in Fair Oaks prepare your game for an
extraordinary meal.
SPECIALIZING IN QUALITY GEAR
FROM BRANDS YOU TRUST.
Select California Waterfowl at
checkout, and we’ll make a donation
to your favorite conservation group.
www.orangedogoutfitters.com
SUTTER BASIN
DUCK AND GOOSE CALLS
Gun Dog Training for All Hunting Breeds
Jan Burkholder
Acampo, CA
NELSON’S For 25 yrs
PO Box 462 - Lathrop, Ca 95330
209-605-1911
Air not included
Single and Double Reed, Acrylic
and Wood Custom Calls By Gene
Carter of Yuba City, Ca
For more info or to order, call
1-888-943-8257 or 530-635-1362
Or, visit our website at
www.sutterbasinduckcalls.com
NORTH BUTTE SINK GUIDE SERVICE
Small with quality in mind
Goose/duck hunts; 4-man blind
Guided, Excellent area
Seasonal Duck Blinds
Trained retrievers
(530) 570-5276
licensed-bonded-insured
MaranelloRestaurant.com
8928 Sunset Ave, Fair Oaks
(916)241-9365
WES’S MARSH MANAGEMENT
Habitat & water management.
Program assistance.
Mowing-Disking-Backhoe
Everything from trees to decoys.
We are the only mgmt. co. with
our own equipment.
Specializing in the Grasslands area.
We don’t just recommend,
we make it happen!
Contact: WES (209) 761-1638
To place an ad, contact
California Waterfowl at
(916) 648-1406 x 127
COMPLETE RETRIEVER TRAINING PROGRAM
For Gun Dogs, Trained Dogs and Puppies Available
45 Years Experience.
Gary Bethel
60 Bartle Lane, Oroville, CA 95966
(530) 532-4423
HUNTING OUTFITTERS
CLASSIFIEDS
DOGS
55
CORPORATE PARTNER WELCOME
WELCOME
NEW
CORPORATE
PARTNER
Federal Premium Ammunition is the most
recent addition to California Waterfowl’s
Corporate Partner family. Since the 1930s,
Federal has actively promoted scientific
wildlife management and the establishment
of a source of revenue for state and federal
wildlife management agencies to implement
such management. And, they have a deep
commitment to do more.
For the past 74 years, Federal has invested in
conservation camps, youth shooting sports
programs, and training programs that
certify new hunters and instructors. Federal
has agreed to partner with California
Waterfowl’s Youth Education and Hunting
Heritage Programs to promote shooting
sports, hunting, and recruiting the next
generation of hunter conservationists.
56
To learn more about Federal Premium
Ammunition’s commitment to
conservation and shooting sports, visit
www.federalpremium.com.
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888 Market St.
(530) 458-HUNT
(4868)
1 block from Sacramento
River State Park.
OPEN 6 DAYS:
3104
www.kittlesoutdoor.com
Mon. - Sat. 5am to 6pm.
Closed Sunday
Call us for the Latest RIVER CONDITIONS!!
CREATIVE GIVING
CREATIVE
GIVING
Passing on the Tradition
by KATIE MCCARTY, CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST
>> Don Avila, with his daughter and son-in-law, Jenni and Bob Young. Avila instilled in his family
the importance of hunting and passing it on to future generations. | PHOTO BY GEORGE FELIZ
As a boy, Young was very interested
in the outdoors and, even though his
father was not a hunter or fisherman,
he immersed himself in outdoor
magazines reading as much as he could.
He recounted, “Back in the day when I
was reading those magazines there was
usually an advertisement that, for just
$9.99, you could get two fishing rods
and 100 lures. I saved up my money
>> BOB AND JENNI YOUNG DONATED SEVERAL FIREARMS TO
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL, WHICH PROVIDED THEM WITH TAX
DEDUCTION THIS YEAR IN ADDITION TO NAMING CALIFORNIA
WATERFOWL AS A BENEFICIARY IN THEIR WILL.
and bought my first set, and from then
on every time I could get away I went
fishing.” It wasn’t until he returned
from Vietnam in 1970 that Young took
up hunting. He purchased his first
shotgun (a Winchester Model 12 that
They agreed that it would
make both of them - and
Don - proud to include
California Waterfowl as a
beneficiary of their estate.
he still has today) and started pursuing
upland game and ducks.
When Young married his wife, Jenni,
his father-in-law took him under his
wing and introduced him to the world
of duck hunting. “The first time I went
hunting with Don, he and his hunting
buddy picked me up in an old, beat up
Mercedes,” Young remembered. “We
headed down the dirt roads of Los Banos
with clouds of dust following us to the
duck club. But we had a great hunt, and
I was hooked from then on.”
When I asked Young why he chose
to donate some of his guns as well as
name California Waterfowl in his will
as a beneficiary of some of his family
heirlooms, he simply replied, “Don
instilled in me the importance of
hunting traditions and paying it forward
for the next generations.” Recently,
when he and his wife were meeting with
their financial advisor to draft their will,
they agreed that it would make both
of them - and Don - proud to include
California Waterfowl as a beneficiary of
their estate.
As our meeting came to a close, Young
shared with me a special experience he
had at the El Dorado Hills dinner in
2008. A few months before that dinner,
his father-in-law had passed away. At the
dinner, Scott Mueller asked everyone
for a moment of silence in Don’s honor.
“There are few times in your life that
you will never forget,” he shared. “This
was one of them for both Jenni and me.”
California Waterfowl can work with you
and your legal and financial advisors to
set up a planned giving arrangement
that will benefit you, your loved ones,
and California Waterfowl. For more
information about giving to California
Waterfowl’s Heritage Fund, please
contact me at (916) 648-1406 x105.
>> Would you like to tell your story
about how you are passing on the hunting
tradition for the next generation? Contact
Katie McCarty at kmccarty@calwaterfowl.
org or (916) 648-1406 x105.
Not long ago, I had the opportunity to
speak with Bob Young, who has been
supporting California Waterfowl for
over 30 years, and who has recently
decided to include California Waterfowl
as a beneficiary in his estate. Bob shared
that it was Don Avila, his father-in-law
and his best friend, who first got him
involved with California Waterfowl
through the Los Banos dinner.
57
CALENDAR / TRACKS
TRACKS
SHOWCASING THE VOLUNTEERS AND SPONSORS OF
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL
EVENT CALENDAR
MARCH
58
Tulare Bucks ‘N’
Ducks Dinner. Mike
Knox, (559) 358-6258;
or Tom Homen,
(209) 606-7257.
North Grasslands
Dinner. Bob Morganti,
(209) 862-0147; or Paul
Forgnone,
(209) 667-8457.
Simi Valley
Dinner. Blair
Summey, (805) 501-7500;
or Tom Homen,
(209) 606-7257.
Lincoln
Dinner. Brian
or Melody Lake,
(916) 765-1876.
El Dorado
County
Banquet.
Jim Knutson,
(530) 306-5395.
Marin Dinner.
Lee Leardini,
(415) 717-9447.
Redding Banquet.
Jay Reagan,
(530) 953-7541.
Guns and Hoses
Banquet (Sacramento).
Tim Davanis,
(916) 335-9604.
East Bay Dinner.
Taff Vidales,
(510) 501-5863; or Ron Sousa,
(510) 537-7319.
Prunedale
Barbeque.
Frankie Messerli,
(831) 901-4599; or
Tom Homen,
(209) 606-7257.
Dixon Dinner.
Travis or
Sandy Morgan,
(530) 318-7845.
Bishop Dinner.
Joe Pecsi, (760)
872-0999 or
(760) 784-0699.
Mid Peninsula
Dinner.
Ashley Custodio,
(650) 678-7328; or
Darren Solaro,
(916) 275-5143.
Alameda
Prawn Feed.
Elmus Miles,
(510) 865-6570; or
Darren Solaro,
(916) 275-5143.
North Delta
Conservancy
Banquet. Mark van
Loben Sels, (916) 776-4035; or
Tim Davanis,
(916) 335-9604.
>>LOS BANOS
Contra Costa Crab
Feed. Kevin Confetti,
(925) 673-0278.
Stockton
Banquet.
Eric Paris, (209) 477-7440;
or Tim Davanis,
(916) 335-9604.
Hanford Dinner.
Craig Grilione,
(559) 584-2000; or
Tom Homen, (209) 606-7257.
>>FALL RIVER
TRACKS
>>HOLLISTER
LAND & CATTLE
>>EAST COUNTY
>>CENTRAL COAST
>>SHOOT FOR THE FUTURE
>>BUTTE CITY
>>SANTA MARGARITA
>>FRESNO
59
TRACKS
OUR CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL
SPECIAL At Carmichael Honda
Fourtrax Rancher 4X4
7829 Fair Oaks Blvd
Carmichael, CA
1-800 -WE-RIDE-1
www.chmmotorsports.com
EVENTS CALENDAR
APRIL
Chuck Pihera
Wild Game
Feed (Sacramento).
Pat Neeley,
(916) 761-4142.
Wood Duck
Banquet
(Fairfield). Steve
Mortensen, (707) 592-5545;
or Robert Franco,
(707) 290-3601.
Southern
California
Shoot. Tom Homen,
(209) 606-7257.
Napa/Sonoma
Banquet.
Napa/Sonoma Committee, (707) 255-5644.
Elverta/Rio Linda
Dinner. Kyle
Farris, (916) 870-3345.
Thunder Hills Shoot.
Scott Mueller,
(916) 648-1406 x133.
MAY
FourTrax® Rancher® AT / FourTrax® Rancher® AT with EPS
honda.com UTILITY ATVs ARE RECOMMENDED ONLY FOR RIDERS 16 YEARS OF
AGE AND OLDER. ATVs CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. FOR YOUR SAFETY,
BE RESPONSIBLE. READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET,
EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. BE CAREFUL ON DIFFICULT
TERRAIN. ALL ATV RIDERS SHOULD TAKE A TRAINING COURSE (FREE FOR
NEW BUYERS. ASK YOUR DEALER OR CALL ASI AT 800-887-2887). NEVER RIDE
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, ON PAVED SURFACES, ON
PUBLIC ROADS, WITH PASSENGERS, OR AT EXCESSIVE SPEEDS. NO STUNT
RIDING. RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT WHEN RIDING. FourTrax® and Rancher®
are registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (O1/12)
Santa Rosa Banquet.
Tom Tolliver,
(707) 568-3257; or Tom
Homen, (209) 606-7257.
Orange County
Dinner. Frank
Theodorpoulos,
(714) 227-3304.
Folsom Banquet.
Scott Mueller,
(916) 648-1406 x133.
Gold Rush Banquet.
Mara Nursement,
(530) 637-9111.
Siskiyou/Mt.
Shasta Banquet.
Kevin Meline,
(530) 926-3477.
Kerman Banquet.
Scott Kovacevich,
(559) 289-1695; or
Tom Homen,
(209) 606-7257.
North Valley Fun Shoot.
Jay Reagan,
(530) 953-7541.
>>BAKERSFIELD
60
>>GALT
>>BAY AREA GUNS & HOSES
TRACKS
>>MENDOTA
>>MONTEREY
>>POCKET
>>PARADISE
>>SOLANO
>>WOODLAND
>>CHESTER - LAKE ALMANOR - WESTWOOD - SUSANVILLE
>>PLACER
>>CHICO
>>INLAND
61
DINNER DONORS
DINNER
DONORS
California Waterfowl's fundraising committees received
donations of $500 or more from the following companies
and individuals. Whenever possible, please support the
businesses listed below.
62
4K Labradors
Harry C. Adamson
Adventures West
Recreation
AIM Adventures
Albertson's Market
American Truck and
Trailer
Assett Management
Group
B&B Outfitting and
Guide Service
BCM Construction
Bruce "Fred" Bassett
Best Bike Zone
Best Party Rentals
Big 5 Sporting Goods
Bird's Landing
Hunting Preserve
BJ's Restaurant
Blue Wing Gallery
Bodega Harbour Golf
Links
Bogle Winery
Harry Boyle
Randall Brown
Brown Construction
Kevin Burroughs
Butte City Hunting Club
Cabela's
California Deer
Association
California Mid-State Fair
Camanche Hills
Hunting Preserve
Camp David Hunting
Lodge
Carvalho Wines
Central Coast Hunting
Retriever Club
Central Coast
Taxidermy
Chester High School
Woodshop
Chico Farm & Orchard
Rick Childs
Chuck's Charter Fishing
Clarksburg Wine
Clear Creek Sports Club
Clift-A Morgans Hotel
(Daniel Lewis)
Clovis Line-X
Coca Cola Bottling
Company
Columbia Sportswear
Coy's BBQ and
Catering
Cru Wine Company
Custom Design and
Sports
Davey Tree
Davidson Furniture
Debenedetto Fruit
Company
Dick's Guide Service
Dillard's Guided
Fishing
Diversified
Development Group
Earle Dix
Do-It-Best Valley
Hardware
Dom's Surplus
Doors, Floors, and More
DormShades
Jerry Dunckel
Dyse'one Clothing
Eagle Eye Fishing
Charter
Ed Dena's Auto Center
Elevation Ten
Kateryna Elson
John Eudy
F. Mcklintocks
Restaurants
Fall River Wild Rice
Farm Credit West
Fast Track Car Wash
Favorite Feathers
Taxidermy
Jeffrey Flaming
Frasinetti Winery and
Restaurant
Rich Freeman
Fresno Grizzlies
Fresno Monster Hockey
Fresno Plumbing &
Heating
Frosty Acres (Albaugh
Family)
Fur, Fins and Feather
Taxidermy
G & G of Lambertville
G & H Decoys
Garret Dixon Guide
Service
Gerber Knives
Gibson Brothers BBQ
Gibson Duck Blind
Covers
GMA Engineering
Gary Graham
Gramps BBQ
Grindstone Outfitters
Guns, Fishing and
Other Stuff
Bryan Guy
Haleakala Ranch
Hamre Equipment
Harrah's
Bob Hawkins
Head Games
Brad and Evangelina
Henman
Herb Bauer Sporting
Goods
Hertz Equipment
High Desert Hunt Club
Highway 12 Vineyards
& Winery
Honey Lake Firearms
Ralph Hovannisian
Howe Electric, Inc.
IHOP
Indian Peak Vineyards
& Winery
Infineon Raceway
Integrated Electronics
Intermountain
Horseradish
J & J Optical, Inc.
Jason Hatanaka
Farming
Jerico Fire Protection
Company, Inc.
John Powell &
Associates, LLP
Kelsey Bass Ranch
Kenmor Jewelers
Kittles Outdoor &
Sporting Company
Barbara and Jay Leith
Les Schwab Tires
Lockford Springs Golf
Course
Phil Lombardi
Loyall Premium Dog
Food
Lucky Dog
Machado Backhoe
Marcozzi Jewelers
Mariposa Wine
Company
Markstein Beverage
McElvany, Inc.
Dennis Melkonian
Me-n-Ed's Pizza
Metropolitan Builders
Marvin Meyers
Mickey's Big Mack
Charters
Mid-Cal Tractor
Company
Mid-Valley Trucking
Mike Bogue's Guide
Service
Mission Linen
MLB Players Alumni
Association
Moore Bros.
Rob Moroconi
North Butte Guide
Service
Northwind Guide
Service
Panther Vision, LLC
Pepper Slough Outfitters
Pepsi Bottling Company
Jill Peterson
Pheasants Forever NECA
Chapter
Plumas Bank
Professional Asbestos
Removal Corporation
Projector's Etc.
Pro-Pac Pet Food
Quiring Corporation
Raahauge's
Adam Rafalski
Carl Rana
Realty Concepts, LTD.
Recology
Redwood Creek Wines
Reed's Sporting Goods
Reese Ranch Dog
Boarding
Reno's Hardware Store
T.H. Richardson
River Garden Farms
Jack Roddy
Rolling Hills Casino
Rooster Ranch
Round-Up Saloon
Jerry Russell
Dan Salas
San Joaquin River
Conservancy
San Luis Sportsman's
Club
David Sarabian
Scribner Bend Winery
Sevillano Links
Shelter Mission de Oro
Janet Simpson
Size More Cattle
Company
Danielle and Dennis
Slagle
Smart and Final
Jason O. Smith
Soggy Bottom Hunt Club
Darren Solaro
Sol-Tek Solar Systems
Sorenson Concrete
Sporting Adventures
International
Sportsman's Warehouse
Sterling May Company
Steve Ray Taxidermy
Stevinson Ranch Golf
Edward Stoddard, DDS
Sun Mountain Gun Club
Sutherland Simpson
TTEE
Sutter Basin Duck Calls
Tackle Box
Tactical Reload
Tanglefree Decoys
Target Constructors, Inc.
Dick Telesco
Terra Dan Construction
Allen and Donna
Thomas
Rick Timmer
Jamie and Jim Traynham
Tri-Tronics
TS&L Seed Company
Tulare Basin Wetland
Association
UPS Store
Pierre Urrutia
"Diamond P"
V Santoni & Company
Valleywide Beverage
Vintage Press
Weatherby
Wente Vineyards
Wes's Marsh Management
Westech Systems, Inc.
Western Art & Frame
Tom Willoughby
Wofford Acres
Vineyard
Yolo County Realty
DUCK BLINDS
UNLIMITED
Manufacturers of quality steel blinds and accessories
DUCK BLINDS UNLIMITED
190 East Washington, Chico, CA 95926
530-345-3963 / CWA Member, Donor and DU Sponsor
www.duckblindsunlimited.com
ADVERTISEMENT
CHIWAPA
MILLET
by ROGER JONES
Not all millets are created equal. Chiwapa millet has made a resurgence
to the wildlife arena recently. It is a heavy seed producer that is a full
season 120 day millet versus the 60 days needed for browntop and
Japanese millet to mature. It is not uncommon to produce over 2,000
lbs of seed per acre with Chiwapa. It can be planted April through early
July depending on your target date for maturity. Chiwapa’s benefits over
browntop and Japanese millets is its seed yield, earlier planting window,
stem diameter, durability, and re-seeding capabilities.
Chiwapa’s early planting window allows the seed to be planted in the
spring when rains are more frequent and are more likely to occur than in
the late summer months. The 120 day maturation period is important,
so the seed will be available for when the birds need it. A common
problem with browntop and Japanese millet is if it is planted too earlier,
prior to August, the millet crop will mature, the seed will shatter causing
it to come into contact with soil and will start growing again. Most times
there will not be enough growing days for this second crop to mature
before the first frost occurs, leaving you with no seed. Chiwapa’s long
growing period ensures you only have to plant your millet once.
Chiwapa has a much larger stem diameter than the other millets, almost
double the diameter. This allows the plant to stand longer, insuring seed
viability. When plants are laid down by strong winds or other events,
there is a risk of the seed coming into contact with the ground and
sprouting, rotting or being eaten by rodents.
The plant is very durable and adaptable to its growing conditions. It
can grow well on a hill top where the soil is droughty with low fertility
or planted like rice in the mud where it can grow in standing water.
In an area planted for upland game birds, it can be planted in a well
prepared seed bed. Areas planted for waterfowl are often too wet to get
a tractor into for seed bed preparation. If this is your case, Chiwapa can
be planted straight onto the mud. Once it gets 12” tall, it can tolerate
shallow flooding and be grown in a rice like environment.
Chiwapa’s seed is very durable and does not decompose quickly in
aquatic environments. This allows it to be a great re-seeder. It has been
known to grow back in Delta duck holes two years after its original
planting. That is three seed crops from one planting! Its ability of reseeding and heavy seed production is why hunters and wildlife managers
have started planting more acres to Chiwapa millet.
With Chiwapa being a full growing season millet, you increase your
odds of having food available for your ducks, doves, turkey, and quail
when they need it, and you want it. For more information on Chiwapa
visit www.chiwapa.com.
>> Barnyard grass on the left compared to Chiwapa millet.
>> A morning’s hunt over Chiwapa millet.
63
SCRAPBOOK
SCRAPBOOK
Photos From California Waterfowl’s
Staff, Volunteers, and Members
Kaleb Lewis is the fifth generation of
the Tarrant family to have fun at Lambertville Duck Club.
| PHOTO BY DAVE TARRANT
Ralph Holsclaw
commissioned this pintail mount
using California Waterfowl’s vintage The
Magnificent Seven print as the inspiration.
| PHOTO BY GEORGE KAMMERER
Establish Native Grasslands for Wildlife Food and Cover
Quail, Pheasant, Dove, Ducks, Turkey, Deer
Beneficial Insects & Pollinators
Turkey Mullein for Dove & Quail
Established Natives Control Erosion and Keep Out Weeds
Hide your Sunken Duck Blinds with perennial Trample
Resistant Creeping Wildrye & Barber’s Sedge
64
We carry a complete line
of native grasses, sedges,
rushes, and wildflowers,
available as both seed and
plug transplants.
Experienced consulting and
product recommendations.
Call or e-mail us for more
information!
Where:
• Upland (Meadows & Oak
Savannas)
• Wetland Edges
• Riparian Understory
• Field Borders & Hedgerows
• Roadsides
• Canal Banks & lefees
• WRP, CREP, & CRP
• Duck Blinds
21905 County Road 88 Winters CA 95694
530-662-6847 office
530-662-2753 fax
info@hedgerowfarms.com
www.hedgerowfarms.com
Juniors took their first ducks at a California
Waterfowl youth hunt at Grizzly Ranch in November 2011.
| PHOTO BY JEREMEY ASHE
SCRAPBOOK
>> Have a scrapbook photo? Email your favorite
photo with a caption to cashe@calwaterfowl.org.
Rip, owned by
Dave Corrick, enjoyed a November morning
hunt at the Butte Lodge Outing Club.
| PHOTO BY DAVE CORRICK
Ryan Sheldon and trusty companion, Sage, took his
first mallard last season. | PHOTO BY BRIANNE SHELDON
(L to R) Phil Quinley, Dave Siegel, Stephen Van Pelt, Dustin
Neutzling, “Major”, Maddox and Rick Martinez, Chuck Helget, Tom Neutzling, and
“Zeke” with geese taken on the opening day of the early Canada goose season.
| PHOTO COURTESY OF PHIL QUINLEY
Two young hunters. Elton Wadlow (age
11), with his dog Creek (age 11 months), headed out to their
blind by boat. Elton is named after his great grandfather who
took the time to pass on the great sport of waterfowling. Elton
is a 4th generation waterfowler.
| PHOTO BY CORBIN WADLOW
The Next Generation. Kaitlyn, age 10,
went on her first duck hunt with her father, Sean McCreary.
They shot some green-winged and cinnamon teal together on
that foggy morning in Los Banos.
| PHOTO BY SEAN MCCREARY
65
MY FIRST HUNT
TOMMY FARRELL
AGE 15, FOLSOM, CA
>> Tommy, a California Waterfowl Sprig Member, also shot his first limit that day. | PHOTO BY GEORGE KAMMERER
CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL:
Who introduced
you to hunting?
us about your first gun.
I worked really hard saving up for my
first shotgun by selling items at garage sales,
mowing lawns, and taking any odd job I
could get. Finally, when I had some money
saved, I went to Sportsman’s Warehouse in
Rocklin with my mom and picked out a
Browning BPS 12-gauge. I loved it the first
time I held it to my shoulder. It fit perfectly!
TF:
My best friend, Parker,
and his dad, George, took me on my first
hunt in February 2010. I had gotten my
hunter education certificate just two weeks
before that. I liked going shooting with
them and thought hunting would be even
more fun. George has provided me with
lots of opportunities, and I really appreciate all that he has done.
TOMMY FARRELL:
CW: Tell
CW: When did you shoot your first duck?
My friends, Parker Kammerer, Jake
Hungerford, and I applied for the youth
opener in Northeastern California in
TF:
September 2010. I was so excited when I
learned two weeks before the hunt that all
three of us had been drawn. That Friday we
made the long drive from my home in Folsom
to Northeastern California. I could barely
sleep that night.
We got up at 3:00 am, and hurried to the
refuge. Within minutes of setting decoys,
we had ducks swooping in all around us.
At shooting time, flocks dropped down into
our decoys like leaves falling from a tree.
We missed the first few flocks, but soon
more ducks started circling. When they
were just a few feet off the water, Parker’s
dad said, “Take ‘em!” I picked the biggest
one close to my side and was thrilled to see
it fold and splash in the pond right in front
of me. I had just shot my first duck – and
it was a big, fat drake mallard!
By 8:30 am we had limits. On the long,
hot walk to the car in our waders (it was
80 degrees), carrying our birds, guns,
decoys, and gear, I was very happy and
did not mind the effort. I had shot my first
duck and my first limit on the same day.
CW: What do you like best about hunting?
What I like best about hunting is the
adrenaline. When you watch birds working
your decoys and they answer your call and
start coming down, it is so exciting. Then
when you shoot a bird and have the dog
bring it back to you, it’s such a great feeling!
TF:
ADVANCED POLYMER TECHNOLOGY
66
Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Lockable lids
- Internal shelves
- Flame resistant
- Impact resistant
- Waterproof
- Non-abrasive
- Insulated qualities
- Rust & corrosion proof
1-4 Man duck blinds and custom sizes available
888.797.5100
www.mtechincorporated.com/blackboxblinds
Designed and manufactured in the USA by MTECH, Inc
Chico, CA 95973
DUCK
CHOW
Wetland enhancement
Planting High Protein Duck Chow
Provides A Critical High-Energy
Food Source
Every year millions of ducks and geese migrate through the Sacramento
Valley on their trip to Mexico. As soon as these birds land from their
long trip from the north they are in search of high protein feeds such as
smartweed, watergrass and rice. These foods are critical for their long trip
south. Having these types of foods available for migrating birds allows
them to stay in the area because of the abundant food source.
Duck Chow can be planted any time during the year, but will not sprout
until the ground temperature reaches about 65ºF and, will produce an
abundant amount of food needed for wintering waterfowl. Duck Chow
will generally replant itself every year making it a very cost effective
and low maintenance product unlike other duck feed that takes quite a
bit of care just to set enough food for one year.
Rice is used by a lot of companies who are selling food for wetland
areas. The only difference is the price. Robert Mathews Farms sells
rice for a fraction of the cost.
Create New Wetland
Habitat
Supplement Wetland
Food for Nesting and
Brood Habitat
Enhance Existing
Habitat
Maximize Important
Wintering Waterfowl
Resources
Blend — The best of both products. Now you can plant both watergrass and rice at the same time. This blend will drive the ducks crazy!
The Purest Seed Available Anywhere!
Bulk Purchase discounts
Free shiPPing Within 100 miles
call For Pricing and/or samPles
Robert
Mathews
Farms
custom rice Farming & Wetland enhancement
8800 Mathews Lane
Marysville, CA 95901
Email: farm9650@yahoo.com
CELL 530.362.1313
Watergrass
Seed

California Waterfowl Magazine

Transcription

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