STWA

Accessibility and repairs to the Dunkirk Fishing Pier are now complete. Enhancements now offer improved access to one of Lake Erie’s most popular fishing sites. Improvements to the pier include: An upgraded design to create greater accessibility for all users Repair work to ensure the pier’s structural stability Reconstruction of the existing wooden fishing pier above the existing steel substructure Replacement of a portion of a concrete sidewalk to improve accessibility Installation of accessible railings and benches Aesthetic improvements View the full article on STWA website

Download the New York Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App on the Apple App Store or Google Play store, or by going to the Pocket Ranger website. This FREE, cutting-edge mobile app gives outdoorsmen essential info. The app will provide up-to-date info on fishing, hunting and wildlife watching and serve as an interactive outdoor app. Using the app's advanced GPS features, users will be able identify and locate New York's many hunting, fishing and wildlife watching sites. View the full article on STWA website

On July 13, Great Lakes House Members introduced a bill to reauthorize the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act (GLFWRA) of 2016. GLFWRA was first passed in 1990 but hasn’t been reauthorized since 2006. It authorizes the USFWS to provide assistance to Great Lakes fish and wildlife agencies to encourage cooperative conservation, restoration, and management of the fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. Projects are selected through a competitive review process from proposals submitted by states, tribes, and other interested entities at a 25% non-federal match. H.R. 5765 extends the program through 2021, reduces the authorization from $16 million to $8 million, and makes changes to the matching rules. Since 1998, GLWFRA has provided more than $22.8 million in federal funding to 148 research and restoration projects. ASA is supporting this bill. View the full article on STWA website

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reminded all new hunters and trappers planning to go afield this upcoming hunting and trapping season that they must first complete a mandatory hunter, bowhunter or trapper education course before they can obtain the appropriate sporting license or hunting privilege. DEC works closely with thousands of dedicated DEC-certified instructors statewide to provide these training courses free of charge. Courses are offered for Hunter Education, Bowhunter Education, Trapper Education and Waterfowl Identification. However, courses fill up quickly, so those interested should sign up for a course soon to be sure they complete it before going afield this fall. With the DEC on-line registration system, viewing a list of all available hunter and trapper education courses with the student's proximity to course locations can be easily done. Students can register from any device—smartphone, tablet or computer—24 hours a day, seven days a week. Education courses are added continuously throughout the year, so be sure to check the on-line system frequently to find a course near you. To locate a nearby hunter or trapper education course, visit DEC's website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7860. html or contact a local DEC office for assistance. New course homework requirements instituted this year All hunter education and trapper education courses now require students to review course materials and complete a homework sheet prior to attending the classroom and field sessions. The new homework portion of the course provides an introduction to the subject and enhances the students’ understanding of the course material. Proof of the completed homework is required in order to attend the classroom and field portions of the course. Access to the homework materials and online homework options can be found on DEC’s website at: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/ 7860.html. Actual course manuals and homework sheets are always available from DEC wildlife offices and sportsman education instructors. View the full article on STWA website

Hey kids register to win a free week at the New York State DEC Camp at Camp Rushford in Alleghany County, NY. You must be 11 years old by December 1st, 2016, age groups are 11-13 and 14-17. Please mail the completed form to Southtowns Walleye Association of WNY, 5895 Southwestern Boulevard, P.O. Box 1378, Hamburg, New York 14075, Attention Lynette Guenther / Kids Camp. A random drawing will take place and four winners will be announced at the November 17th General Membership Meeting. *NOTE: Applicants must be a relative of a Southtowns Walleye Association Member. Camp will run for one week sessions. Check-in for camp is between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Sunday. Camper pickup and closing ceremony is at 4:30 PM on Friday. Campers who are 11 may now attend camp (must be minimum age by December 1, 2016). In order to accommodate the younger campers, we have shifted the age groups for the two programs. Youth camp is now for 11-13 years old and Teen Ecology Camp is for 14-17 years old. Camp Rushford will have two weeks of the 14-17 year old Teen Ecology program (Weeks 4 and 5). Some of the exciting activities include; fly tying, fishing, archery, shelter building, herping (searching for reptiles), orienteering and map making, tracking, nature art, boating and birding. You can download the application in our August Issue of the Fishline Newsletter on page 34 located here. View the full article on STWA website

For Immediate Release: 9/15/2016 GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO State of New York | Executive Chamber Andrew M. Cuomo | Governor GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF NEW YORK STATE OFFSHORE WIND BLUEPRINT Plan Outlines Strategic Approach to Responsibly Develop Offshore Wind Resources and Meet Clean Energy Standard Commitment of 50-Percent Renewables by 2030 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the release of the New York State Offshore Wind Blueprint. First announced in the 2016 State of the State address, the strategic plan will advance the development of offshore wind along New York’s coastline. New York State is home to some of the world’s strongest offshore wind resources, which will contribute to the Governor’s aggressive mandate to supply 50 percent of the state’s electricity from renewable energy resources by 2030. "New York is a national leader in combating climate change and now we are taking the next big step forward,” Governor Cuomo said. “By developing a viable offshore wind energy source, we will continue to provide New Yorkers with clean, affordable power and lay the foundation for a thriving clean energy economy. This plan represents the future of New York and will cement our role as a leader in the renewable energy industry for generations to come.” The Blueprint creates a framework for the responsible development of robust wind energy generation off the coast of New York through a comprehensive Offshore Wind Master Plan. To lead on offshore wind development in the U.S. and ensure responsiveness to the communities involved, New York State is committed to responding to feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including energy consumers, utilities, environmental groups, coastal communities, commercial fisherman and the maritime industry. The Blueprint covers current and planned environmental studies, and strategic options to support sustainable and properly-sited offshore wind development, including site characterization and site assessment work. The Blueprint also defines the New York Offshore Study Area and identifies Wind Energy Areas outside of the study area that will be reviewed with respect to grid interconnection, costs, and benefits they may bring to New York. All of these options will be included in the final Offshore Wind Master Plan, expected at the end of 2017. Chairman of Energy and Finance for New York Richard Kauffman said, "The Blueprint is a critical step to ensure New York State will realize its aggressive clean energy goals under Governor Cuomo’s leadership. Offshore wind will be a critical contributor to achieving the State’s Clean Energy Standard mandate to serve 50 percent of the state’s electricity demand from renewable resources by 2030." In June, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority announced its intention to participate in the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management auction for an 81,000-acre Wind Energy Area located 12 miles off the Long Island coast. NYSERDA is the first state entity to participate in a BOEM auction. If it were to win the auction, NYSERDA would be able to lead the development and timing of the site’s progress, ensuring that any project will be developed at the lowest possible cost for electricity consumers while protecting the environment and growing the economy. The Blueprint will help inform NYSERDA on this auction process. As part of its pre-development work, NYSERDA will produce environmental studies and a resource assessment and site characterization to further reduce project costs and impacts. NYSERDA will then package this work with a power purchase mechanism and select a project developer through a competitive process. This strategy minimizes project risks and provides developers certainty to secure financing, maximizing competition and ultimately lowering project costs for consumers. Additionally, as part of New York's commitment to address concerns over possible offshore wind impacts, NYSERDA is undertaking the world’s largest-ever digital aerial survey of offshore wildlife. The first round of survey flights ended in August. The survey of a 16,000-square-mile area off the Long Island coast will provide baseline data on offshore wildlife. Aerial, high-resolution digital still imagery will be used to collect data on birds, marine mammals, sea turtles, fish and other wildlife encountered offshore. Surveys will be conducted four times a year over three years using the latest digital and sensor technology in coordination with visual surveys planned by other state and federal entities. President and CEO of NYSERDA John B. Rhodes said, “Offshore wind offers significant potential to help New York State meet Governor Cuomo's nation-leading 50 percent renewable power goal by 2030. This blueprint lays out how New York will responsibly harness clean and cost-effective energy from offshore wind, and drive clean energy development to benefit all New Yorkers and fight the dangers of climate change.” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "Responsibly sited renewable energy developments are a critical part of the state’s comprehensive efforts to tackle climate change. Through creation of the draft Ocean Action Plan, DEC and partners have continued to work with many stakeholders to identify sensitive offshore habitats that potential energy developments should avoid. We look forward to working with NYSERDA, DOS, the commercial fishing industry and other partners as this process advances to ensure potential energy developments do not degrade our economically important marine ecosystem." New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado said, “I applaud Governor Cuomo for his commitment to making New York State a leader in renewable energy. This blueprint provides the State with a clear path to clean and affordable offshore wind energy that will benefit New York’s communities for generations to come. The Department of State looks forward to leading the State’s efforts on the BOEM Offshore Renewable Energy Task Force as we ensure that offshore wind leasing moves forward efficiently and in the most appropriate locations. ” About Reforming the Energy Vision Reforming the Energy Vision is Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s strategy to lead on climate change and grow New York's economy. REV is building a cleaner, more resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers by stimulating investment in clean technologies like solar, wind, and energy efficiency, in part through the recent adoption of New York’s Clean Energy Standard which requires that 50% of the state's electricity needs be generated from renewable energy sources by 2030. Already, REV has driven 600% growth in the statewide solar market, enabled over 105,000 low-income households to permanently cut their energy bills with energy efficiency, and created thousands of jobs in manufacturing, engineering, and other clean tech sectors. REV is ensuring New York State reduces statewide greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and achieves the internationally-recognized target of reducing emissions 80% by 2050. To learn more about REV, including the Governor's $5.3 billion investment in clean energy technology and innovation, please visit www.ny.gov/REV4NY and follow us at @Rev4NY. ### Additional news available at www.governor.ny.gov New York State | Executive Chamber |[email protected] | 518.474.8418 View the full article on STWA website

Press Release: August 31, 2016 Distributed by New York Sea Grant for The Friends of Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center Media Contact: Francine Geyer, Friends of Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center, 716.308.9754, [email protected] Sea Grant Specialist to Present Lake Erie: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow at Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center September 21 Hamburg, NY. The Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center Speaker Series will feature a 7 pm presentation on Wednesday, September 21 on Lake Erie: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow by Helen Domske, Associate Director of the Great Lakes Program at the University of Buffalo and Senior Education Specialist with New York Sea Grant Extension of Cornell University. Doors open at 6:30 pm at the Center at 4968 Lake Shore Road in Hamburg. Domske, a 2016 Western New York Science Congress Distinguished Scientist, will begin with a look at the early history, fishery and ecology of Lake Erie and progress to the issues, including algal blooms and invasive species, facing this Great Lake today. She will offer a forecast of what the future might bring with new scientific developments and management steps underway. Preserved aquatic specimens and artifacts will add a hands-on component to the free admission program sponsored by The Friends of the Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center. The Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center serves as a tourism and visitors center for the western segment of the Great Lakes Seaway Trail system. It is a valuable resource enhancing knowledge of important historic, cultural, environmental, scenic and recreational resources in the immediate Hamburg area as well as the wealth of tourist and recreational opportunities in Erie and Niagara counties, the Southern Tier and the western Great Lakes Seaway Trail corridor region. The Center has incorporated a working aquatic lab and environmental conservation and education center with emphasis on the Lake Erie-Niagara River watershed. Admission to the Center is free; donations are gratefully accepted at the door. For more information, visit the Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center Facebook page or email [email protected]. Photo: New York Sea Grant Education Specialist Helen Domske, at right, leads periodic hand-on workshops for teachers aboard federal Great Lakes research vessels on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Photo: New York Sea Grant/Paul Focazio View the full article on STWA website

Accessibility and repairs to the Dunkirk Fishing Pier are now complete. Enhancements now offer improved access to one of Lake Erie’s most popular fishing sites. Improvements to the pier include: An upgraded design to create greater accessibility for all users Repair work to ensure the pier’s structural stability Reconstruction of the existing wooden fishing pier above the existing steel substructure Replacement of a portion of a concrete sidewalk to improve accessibility Installation of accessible railings and benches Aesthetic improvements View the full article on STWA website

Download the New York Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App on the Apple App Store or Google Play store, or by going to the Pocket Ranger website. This FREE, cutting-edge mobile app gives outdoorsmen essential info. The app will provide up-to-date info on fishing, hunting and wildlife watching and serve as an interactive outdoor app. Using the app's advanced GPS features, users will be able identify and locate New York's many hunting, fishing and wildlife watching sites. View the full article on STWA website

On July 13, Great Lakes House Members introduced a bill to reauthorize the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act (GLFWRA) of 2016. GLFWRA was first passed in 1990 but hasn’t been reauthorized since 2006. It authorizes the USFWS to provide assistance to Great Lakes fish and wildlife agencies to encourage cooperative conservation, restoration, and management of the fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. Projects are selected through a competitive review process from proposals submitted by states, tribes, and other interested entities at a 25% non-federal match. H.R. 5765 extends the program through 2021, reduces the authorization from $16 million to $8 million, and makes changes to the matching rules. Since 1998, GLWFRA has provided more than $22.8 million in federal funding to 148 research and restoration projects. ASA is supporting this bill. View the full article on STWA website

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reminded all new hunters and trappers planning to go afield this upcoming hunting and trapping season that they must first complete a mandatory hunter, bowhunter or trapper education course before they can obtain the appropriate sporting license or hunting privilege. DEC works closely with thousands of dedicated DEC-certified instructors statewide to provide these training courses free of charge. Courses are offered for Hunter Education, Bowhunter Education, Trapper Education and Waterfowl Identification. However, courses fill up quickly, so those interested should sign up for a course soon to be sure they complete it before going afield this fall. With the DEC on-line registration system, viewing a list of all available hunter and trapper education courses with the student's proximity to course locations can be easily done. Students can register from any device—smartphone, tablet or computer—24 hours a day, seven days a week. Education courses are added continuously throughout the year, so be sure to check the on-line system frequently to find a course near you. To locate a nearby hunter or trapper education course, visit DEC's website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7860. html or contact a local DEC office for assistance. New course homework requirements instituted this year All hunter education and trapper education courses now require students to review course materials and complete a homework sheet prior to attending the classroom and field sessions. The new homework portion of the course provides an introduction to the subject and enhances the students’ understanding of the course material. Proof of the completed homework is required in order to attend the classroom and field portions of the course. Access to the homework materials and online homework options can be found on DEC’s website at: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/ 7860.html. Actual course manuals and homework sheets are always available from DEC wildlife offices and sportsman education instructors. View the full article on STWA website

Hey kids register to win a free week at the New York State DEC Camp at Camp Rushford in Alleghany County, NY. You must be 11 years old by December 1st, 2016, age groups are 11-13 and 14-17. Please mail the completed form to Southtowns Walleye Association of WNY, 5895 Southwestern Boulevard, P.O. Box 1378, Hamburg, New York 14075, Attention Lynette Guenther / Kids Camp. A random drawing will take place and four winners will be announced at the November 17th General Membership Meeting. *NOTE: Applicants must be a relative of a Southtowns Walleye Association Member. Camp will run for one week sessions. Check-in for camp is between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Sunday. Camper pickup and closing ceremony is at 4:30 PM on Friday. Campers who are 11 may now attend camp (must be minimum age by December 1, 2016). In order to accommodate the younger campers, we have shifted the age groups for the two programs. Youth camp is now for 11-13 years old and Teen Ecology Camp is for 14-17 years old. Camp Rushford will have two weeks of the 14-17 year old Teen Ecology program (Weeks 4 and 5). Some of the exciting activities include; fly tying, fishing, archery, shelter building, herping (searching for reptiles), orienteering and map making, tracking, nature art, boating and birding. You can download the application in our August Issue of the Fishline Newsletter on page 34 located here. View the full article on STWA website

For Immediate Release: 9/15/2016 GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO State of New York | Executive Chamber Andrew M. Cuomo | Governor GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF NEW YORK STATE OFFSHORE WIND BLUEPRINT Plan Outlines Strategic Approach to Responsibly Develop Offshore Wind Resources and Meet Clean Energy Standard Commitment of 50-Percent Renewables by 2030 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the release of the New York State Offshore Wind Blueprint. First announced in the 2016 State of the State address, the strategic plan will advance the development of offshore wind along New York’s coastline. New York State is home to some of the world’s strongest offshore wind resources, which will contribute to the Governor’s aggressive mandate to supply 50 percent of the state’s electricity from renewable energy resources by 2030. "New York is a national leader in combating climate change and now we are taking the next big step forward,” Governor Cuomo said. “By developing a viable offshore wind energy source, we will continue to provide New Yorkers with clean, affordable power and lay the foundation for a thriving clean energy economy. This plan represents the future of New York and will cement our role as a leader in the renewable energy industry for generations to come.” The Blueprint creates a framework for the responsible development of robust wind energy generation off the coast of New York through a comprehensive Offshore Wind Master Plan. To lead on offshore wind development in the U.S. and ensure responsiveness to the communities involved, New York State is committed to responding to feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including energy consumers, utilities, environmental groups, coastal communities, commercial fisherman and the maritime industry. The Blueprint covers current and planned environmental studies, and strategic options to support sustainable and properly-sited offshore wind development, including site characterization and site assessment work. The Blueprint also defines the New York Offshore Study Area and identifies Wind Energy Areas outside of the study area that will be reviewed with respect to grid interconnection, costs, and benefits they may bring to New York. All of these options will be included in the final Offshore Wind Master Plan, expected at the end of 2017. Chairman of Energy and Finance for New York Richard Kauffman said, "The Blueprint is a critical step to ensure New York State will realize its aggressive clean energy goals under Governor Cuomo’s leadership. Offshore wind will be a critical contributor to achieving the State’s Clean Energy Standard mandate to serve 50 percent of the state’s electricity demand from renewable resources by 2030." In June, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority announced its intention to participate in the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management auction for an 81,000-acre Wind Energy Area located 12 miles off the Long Island coast. NYSERDA is the first state entity to participate in a BOEM auction. If it were to win the auction, NYSERDA would be able to lead the development and timing of the site’s progress, ensuring that any project will be developed at the lowest possible cost for electricity consumers while protecting the environment and growing the economy. The Blueprint will help inform NYSERDA on this auction process. As part of its pre-development work, NYSERDA will produce environmental studies and a resource assessment and site characterization to further reduce project costs and impacts. NYSERDA will then package this work with a power purchase mechanism and select a project developer through a competitive process. This strategy minimizes project risks and provides developers certainty to secure financing, maximizing competition and ultimately lowering project costs for consumers. Additionally, as part of New York's commitment to address concerns over possible offshore wind impacts, NYSERDA is undertaking the world’s largest-ever digital aerial survey of offshore wildlife. The first round of survey flights ended in August. The survey of a 16,000-square-mile area off the Long Island coast will provide baseline data on offshore wildlife. Aerial, high-resolution digital still imagery will be used to collect data on birds, marine mammals, sea turtles, fish and other wildlife encountered offshore. Surveys will be conducted four times a year over three years using the latest digital and sensor technology in coordination with visual surveys planned by other state and federal entities. President and CEO of NYSERDA John B. Rhodes said, “Offshore wind offers significant potential to help New York State meet Governor Cuomo's nation-leading 50 percent renewable power goal by 2030. This blueprint lays out how New York will responsibly harness clean and cost-effective energy from offshore wind, and drive clean energy development to benefit all New Yorkers and fight the dangers of climate change.” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "Responsibly sited renewable energy developments are a critical part of the state’s comprehensive efforts to tackle climate change. Through creation of the draft Ocean Action Plan, DEC and partners have continued to work with many stakeholders to identify sensitive offshore habitats that potential energy developments should avoid. We look forward to working with NYSERDA, DOS, the commercial fishing industry and other partners as this process advances to ensure potential energy developments do not degrade our economically important marine ecosystem." New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado said, “I applaud Governor Cuomo for his commitment to making New York State a leader in renewable energy. This blueprint provides the State with a clear path to clean and affordable offshore wind energy that will benefit New York’s communities for generations to come. The Department of State looks forward to leading the State’s efforts on the BOEM Offshore Renewable Energy Task Force as we ensure that offshore wind leasing moves forward efficiently and in the most appropriate locations. ” About Reforming the Energy Vision Reforming the Energy Vision is Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s strategy to lead on climate change and grow New York's economy. REV is building a cleaner, more resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers by stimulating investment in clean technologies like solar, wind, and energy efficiency, in part through the recent adoption of New York’s Clean Energy Standard which requires that 50% of the state's electricity needs be generated from renewable energy sources by 2030. Already, REV has driven 600% growth in the statewide solar market, enabled over 105,000 low-income households to permanently cut their energy bills with energy efficiency, and created thousands of jobs in manufacturing, engineering, and other clean tech sectors. REV is ensuring New York State reduces statewide greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and achieves the internationally-recognized target of reducing emissions 80% by 2050. To learn more about REV, including the Governor's $5.3 billion investment in clean energy technology and innovation, please visit www.ny.gov/REV4NY and follow us at @Rev4NY. ### Additional news available at www.governor.ny.gov New York State | Executive Chamber |[email protected] | 518.474.8418 View the full article on STWA website

The Great Lakes Protection Fund is looking for new ideas, new projects and new cohorts of people to catalyze a transition to a new era of water systems. The Fund has already invested in teams working to pilot strategies to drive changes in our existing water systems. The fund wants to expand that portfolio, adding efforts that, for example: Test new solutions to urban storm water and rural drainage, Integrate water management, Test watershed approaches, prototype new ways to manage coastal processes, and demonstrate other strategies to create the building blocks for the next generation of water systems. The Fund is interested in your best ideas, even if they may not be pre-proposal ready. The cutoff date for pre-proposals is July 25, 2016. For more information: http://glpf.org/get-funding/projects-wanted/reimagining-great-lakes-water-systems-rfp/. View the full article on STWA website

A new Ohio record yellow perch has been certified by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio State Record Fish Committee. The new record yellow perch, weighing 2.86 lbs., was caught by David Berg of Mentor, Ohio in Lake Erie. Berg caught the yellow perch April 18, 2016, using a minnow for bait, on a St. Croix spinning rod with 8 lb. test braided line. Berg’s yellow perch is 15.75 inches long and 13.75 inches in girth. His catch replaces the previous state record yellow perch which was caught in Lake Erie by Charles Thomas on April 17, 1984 weighing 2.75 pounds and measuring 14.5 inches long. Ohio’s record fish are determined on the basis of weight only. Ohio’s state record fish are certified by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio State Record Fish Committee with assistance from fisheries biologists with the Ohio DNR. View the full article on STWA website

Our next Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshop is September 16-18 at Greek Peak Mountain Resort near Cortland, NY. Registration began June 14. BOW workshops usually fill very quickly so you will want to complete the registration form and get it in the mail as soon as possible for the best chance of getting in the workshop and getting the classes you want. The registration fee for this workshop is $345 per person. That includes 2 nights double occupancy lodging, seven meals (lunch Friday through lunch Sunday), almost all equipment needed for the classes, transportation to off-site class locations and class materials. There will be an additional fee if you are planning on taking the Aerial Challenge or Taxidermy classes. We can only accept personal checks, bank checks or money orders. Two new classes are offered at this workshop: Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP), Wildlife Photography, Caught on Camera (trail cameras), Car Confidence (how to change a tire, jump start a car and other skills and tips for the woman who wants to feel confident traveling on her own) and Aerial Challenge which is a cool, confidence building course that involves ropes, bridges, zip lines and more. And, YEAH, the Taxidermy class will be offered again this year! You can also earn your Hunter Education or Trapping Education Certification at this View the full article on STWA website

The Great Lakes Protection Fund is looking for new ideas, new projects and new cohorts of people to catalyze a transition to a new era of water systems. The Fund has already invested in teams working to pilot strategies to drive changes in our existing water systems. The fund wants to expand that portfolio, adding efforts that, for example: Test new solutions to urban storm water and rural drainage, Integrate water management, Test watershed approaches, prototype new ways to manage coastal processes, and demonstrate other strategies to create the building blocks for the next generation of water systems. The Fund is interested in your best ideas, even if they may not be pre-proposal ready. The cutoff date for pre-proposals is July 25, 2016. For more information: http://glpf.org/get-funding/projects-wanted/reimagining-great-lakes-water-systems-rfp/. View the full article on STWA website

A new Ohio record yellow perch has been certified by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio State Record Fish Committee. The new record yellow perch, weighing 2.86 lbs., was caught by David Berg of Mentor, Ohio in Lake Erie. Berg caught the yellow perch April 18, 2016, using a minnow for bait, on a St. Croix spinning rod with 8 lb. test braided line. Berg’s yellow perch is 15.75 inches long and 13.75 inches in girth. His catch replaces the previous state record yellow perch which was caught in Lake Erie by Charles Thomas on April 17, 1984 weighing 2.75 pounds and measuring 14.5 inches long. Ohio’s record fish are determined on the basis of weight only. Ohio’s state record fish are certified by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio State Record Fish Committee with assistance from fisheries biologists with the Ohio DNR. View the full article on STWA website

Our next Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshop is September 16-18 at Greek Peak Mountain Resort near Cortland, NY. Registration began June 14. BOW workshops usually fill very quickly so you will want to complete the registration form and get it in the mail as soon as possible for the best chance of getting in the workshop and getting the classes you want. The registration fee for this workshop is $345 per person. That includes 2 nights double occupancy lodging, seven meals (lunch Friday through lunch Sunday), almost all equipment needed for the classes, transportation to off-site class locations and class materials. There will be an additional fee if you are planning on taking the Aerial Challenge or Taxidermy classes. We can only accept personal checks, bank checks or money orders. Two new classes are offered at this workshop: Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP), Wildlife Photography, Caught on Camera (trail cameras), Car Confidence (how to change a tire, jump start a car and other skills and tips for the woman who wants to feel confident traveling on her own) and Aerial Challenge which is a cool, confidence building course that involves ropes, bridges, zip lines and more. And, YEAH, the Taxidermy class will be offered again this year! You can also earn your Hunter Education or Trapping Education Certification at this View the full article on STWA website

I was dressed in chest-high waders and stood in Lake Erie water up to my waist. And it was my first cast for northern pike with an old orange wobble-lure. That lure snagged a massive log or so it seemed. That mass turned into a giant carp that was determined to peel my reel of 8 lb test line as he headed for deep water. Even with a heavy drag-- I said goodbye to my new fish line that was stretched to the breaking point. A successful landing would require new line since it easily curls and tangles and leads to more cussing than fishing. But landing that fish was in the distant future because my reel was half empty before the drag brought that mountain of muscle to a rest, the first of many to follow. Then the boredom set in and I began to view the shore line and the spring-green grass of the lake-view homes. There on a manicured lawn were two giant Canada Geese with the male gander standing at a stiff attention while close behind him was mother goose and her 4 goslings. So what? I see this all the time except for the stiffness of the gander. But new to me and slinking her way to the geese was a fox, our well know Foxy Lady who has a family to feed and she would love a fresh gosling for her pups. This scene was 100 percent new to me, a mother fox about to attack 2 geese for a delicious baby goose. That’s when I bet myself one thousand dollars on who would win--- the fox or geese? The biggest mistake would be for the geese to make a panic-rush into the lake water. They did not. That gander stood stiff and threatened anything that approached his family. The fox twitched her tail and backed away from the geese, followed by a fast pee on the lawn and then departed for safer hunting grounds. Wow, I won one thousand dollars from myself but only because I had inside information. For example, one night Foxy Lady arrived at our outdoor cat food dish and there was a possum eating at the dish. Foxy Lady approached the dish and the possum did not back off. Then the fox slipped away and returned when the possum had departed. A wise move at a time when plenty of food was available to all animals. If food was scarce, that possum would have been an evening snack to Foxy Lady and her family. With the passage of the possum-fox encounter I was able to concentrate on the landing of this massive carp. Half an hour of constant pressure on my line and fishing pole left my arms weak. But I got the fish into shallow water and secured in my landing net. I then removed the hook from its tail fin. Away it swam unharmed-- a massive creature full of caviar that was ready to be hatched into clouds of carpettes. I wished Madame Carp the best of luck with her new family. View the full article on STWA website

The long term mission to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes is working, and the just-released 2016 Asian Carp Action Plan shows natural resources professionals from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and our federal, state, and local partner agencies and organizations are busy developing and implementing new and increasingly effective ways of keeping the invasive fish from moving into Lake Michigan and beyond. For those who may not know, Asian carp imported to the U.S. to clean fish farm and retention ponds escaped into the Mississippi River more than 40 years ago, and spread into the Illinois River 30 years ago. Two species of Asian carp—silver and bighead carp—consume the plant and animal plankton that sportfish rely on. Illinois and the IDNR personnel are on the leading edge of efforts to reduce Asian carp numbers where they exist in the upper Illinois River, and keep those remaining from using the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal as a pathway to the Great Lakes. The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee’s 2016 plan includes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ installation of a third electric fish barrier in the canal at Romeoville; evaluation of new control measures and technologies; and, stepped up contract fishing on the upper Illinois and lower Des Plaines rivers to remove tens of thousands of Asian carp to keep them out of the canal and away from the barriers. Earlier this spring, IDNR and partner agencies and contract fishermen tested a new strategy for deploying nets and driving fish into them, hauling more than 13,000 silver and bighead carp weighing more than 96,000 pounds out of a backwater river pit near Morris in just over a week. Check the IDNR Facebook page at this link to see photos of the operation: Fish netting photos Contract fishing is a key to reducing the numbers of Asian carp in the upper Illinois River. Watch a video about it on the IDNR YouTube channel at this link: Contract fishing video. View the full article on STWA website

Anglers can boost the odds of fish surviving catch and release with methods that avoid damage to fish. “Fish can be injured by hooks, stress and being pulled from deep water,” said Brad Parsons, central region fisheries manager with the Minnesota DNR. “We remind anglers to keep the fish’s survival in mind when planning to catch and release.” Fish hooked in the mouth almost always survive. Setting the hook quickly helps avoid hooking a fish in the stomach or gills. Jigs, circle hooks and active baits like crankbaits are more likely to hook a fish in the mouth. Barbless hooks or pinched barbs can help, but where a fish gets hooked is more important than the presence or absence of a barb. Quickly landing a fish, minimizing its time out of water and handling the fish firmly but carefully all help it survive after release. By all means take photos, but it helps to have the camera ready and to have pliers that work well for taking hooks out. Cutting the line and leaving the hook in is also a good option. Deep water and also warm water temperatures increase the stress put on fish when caught and released. Anglers tend to do more fishing and catch more fish in warm weather, but these are also important times to take special care during catch and release. Here are a few more tips: Wet your hands before touching a fish to prevent removal of their protective slime coating. Rubberized nets help, too. Unhook and release the fish while it is still in the water, if possible, and support its weight with both hands or with a net when removed from the water. Never lift them vertically. Hold a fish firmly but gently. Don’t drop it. Do not place fish you plan to release on a stringer or in a live well. Revive a fish by cradling it under the belly and gently moving it back and forth in the water until it swims away. View the full article on STWA website

I was dressed in chest-high waders and stood in Lake Erie water up to my waist. And it was my first cast for northern pike with an old orange wobble-lure. That lure snagged a massive log or so it seemed. That mass turned into a giant carp that was determined to peel my reel of 8 lb test line as he headed for deep water. Even with a heavy drag-- I said goodbye to my new fish line that was stretched to the breaking point. A successful landing would require new line since it easily curls and tangles and leads to more cussing than fishing. But landing that fish was in the distant future because my reel was half empty before the drag brought that mountain of muscle to a rest, the first of many to follow. Then the boredom set in and I began to view the shore line and the spring-green grass of the lake-view homes. There on a manicured lawn were two giant Canada Geese with the male gander standing at a stiff attention while close behind him was mother goose and her 4 goslings. So what? I see this all the time except for the stiffness of the gander. But new to me and slinking her way to the geese was a fox, our well know Foxy Lady who has a family to feed and she would love a fresh gosling for her pups. This scene was 100 percent new to me, a mother fox about to attack 2 geese for a delicious baby goose. That’s when I bet myself one thousand dollars on who would win--- the fox or geese? The biggest mistake would be for the geese to make a panic-rush into the lake water. They did not. That gander stood stiff and threatened anything that approached his family. The fox twitched her tail and backed away from the geese, followed by a fast pee on the lawn and then departed for safer hunting grounds. Wow, I won one thousand dollars from myself but only because I had inside information. For example, one night Foxy Lady arrived at our outdoor cat food dish and there was a possum eating at the dish. Foxy Lady approached the dish and the possum did not back off. Then the fox slipped away and returned when the possum had departed. A wise move at a time when plenty of food was available to all animals. If food was scarce, that possum would have been an evening snack to Foxy Lady and her family. With the passage of the possum-fox encounter I was able to concentrate on the landing of this massive carp. Half an hour of constant pressure on my line and fishing pole left my arms weak. But I got the fish into shallow water and secured in my landing net. I then removed the hook from its tail fin. Away it swam unharmed-- a massive creature full of caviar that was ready to be hatched into clouds of carpettes. I wished Madame Carp the best of luck with her new family. View the full article on STWA website

The long term mission to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes is working, and the just-released 2016 Asian Carp Action Plan shows natural resources professionals from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and our federal, state, and local partner agencies and organizations are busy developing and implementing new and increasingly effective ways of keeping the invasive fish from moving into Lake Michigan and beyond. For those who may not know, Asian carp imported to the U.S. to clean fish farm and retention ponds escaped into the Mississippi River more than 40 years ago, and spread into the Illinois River 30 years ago. Two species of Asian carp—silver and bighead carp—consume the plant and animal plankton that sportfish rely on. Illinois and the IDNR personnel are on the leading edge of efforts to reduce Asian carp numbers where they exist in the upper Illinois River, and keep those remaining from using the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal as a pathway to the Great Lakes. The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee’s 2016 plan includes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ installation of a third electric fish barrier in the canal at Romeoville; evaluation of new control measures and technologies; and, stepped up contract fishing on the upper Illinois and lower Des Plaines rivers to remove tens of thousands of Asian carp to keep them out of the canal and away from the barriers. Earlier this spring, IDNR and partner agencies and contract fishermen tested a new strategy for deploying nets and driving fish into them, hauling more than 13,000 silver and bighead carp weighing more than 96,000 pounds out of a backwater river pit near Morris in just over a week. Check the IDNR Facebook page at this link to see photos of the operation: Fish netting photos Contract fishing is a key to reducing the numbers of Asian carp in the upper Illinois River. Watch a video about it on the IDNR YouTube channel at this link: Contract fishing video. View the full article on STWA website

Anglers can boost the odds of fish surviving catch and release with methods that avoid damage to fish. “Fish can be injured by hooks, stress and being pulled from deep water,” said Brad Parsons, central region fisheries manager with the Minnesota DNR. “We remind anglers to keep the fish’s survival in mind when planning to catch and release.” Fish hooked in the mouth almost always survive. Setting the hook quickly helps avoid hooking a fish in the stomach or gills. Jigs, circle hooks and active baits like crankbaits are more likely to hook a fish in the mouth. Barbless hooks or pinched barbs can help, but where a fish gets hooked is more important than the presence or absence of a barb. Quickly landing a fish, minimizing its time out of water and handling the fish firmly but carefully all help it survive after release. By all means take photos, but it helps to have the camera ready and to have pliers that work well for taking hooks out. Cutting the line and leaving the hook in is also a good option. Deep water and also warm water temperatures increase the stress put on fish when caught and released. Anglers tend to do more fishing and catch more fish in warm weather, but these are also important times to take special care during catch and release. Here are a few more tips: Wet your hands before touching a fish to prevent removal of their protective slime coating. Rubberized nets help, too. Unhook and release the fish while it is still in the water, if possible, and support its weight with both hands or with a net when removed from the water. Never lift them vertically. Hold a fish firmly but gently. Don’t drop it. Do not place fish you plan to release on a stringer or in a live well. Revive a fish by cradling it under the belly and gently moving it back and forth in the water until it swims away. View the full article on STWA website