U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service solicits input on Cormorant Management - SONS of Lake Erie
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Inland Seas Angler
GREAT LAKES BASIN REPORT
A Publication of the Great Lakes Sport Fishing Council February 2020
http://www.great-lakes.org Vol. 31, No. 2
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service solicits input on
Cormorant Management
As part of ongoing efforts to address federal partners to assess First District, where over-population
conflicts between double-crested comprehensive management options is threatening the health of our free
cormorants and wild and stocked for cormorants across the United swimming and recreational
fisheries, the Department of the States. Federal Register notice fisheries,” said U.S. Rep. Jack
Interior’s U.S. Fish and Wildlife “I am pleased to see the Bergman (MI-01).
Service (Service) is announcing an Department is moving forward in the “The strong return of double
advance notice of proposed rulemaking process for the crested cormorants is a significant
rulemaking (ANPR) and soliciting conservation success. But in
public input on future management the absence of natural
options. Federal Register notice predators, cormorants are
“Balancing the protection of inflicting substantial
native wildlife with economic and depredation on both private
human health needs is fundamental and public aquatic resources.
to effective management practices,” This effort by the Fish and
said U.S. Secretary of the Interior Wildlife Service is necessary
David Bernhardt. “[This] action and appropriate to maintain a
starts the process of improving healthy ecosystem," said
management and further reduces Former USFWS Director,
conflicts with double-crested Dale Hall.
cormorants throughout the United depredation of double-crested
State. The Service is also currently cormorants. This is a desperately USFWS Cormorant Management
working with tribes, state fish and needed next step for Michigan’s Continued on page 8
wildlife agencies and other
DNR issues ice warning for aerated lakes
In this issue… The Minnesota DNR urges people them this winter. Private hatchery
to use caution on lakes with winter operators also use aeration systems,
$25 million to restore Kalamazoo River ... 2
PFBC approves removal of display reg ... 2 aeration systems. usually on small lakes without
DEC Blueprint for Artificial Reef Prog ...... 3 Aeration creates areas of thin public accesses.
MSU Chicago seeks participation ........... 4 ice and open water that are A DNR permit is required to
Oneida Lake walleyes hit 1 million fish .... 4 extremely hazardous to people and install and operate an aeration
DNR approves 10 yr trout mgmt. plan ..... 5
Regs for some Ohio River fish change .... 5 pets. Open water areas can shift or system. Permit holders must issue
Muskie School Mar 14 at Waunakee HS . 5 change shape depending on weather public notices, post warning signs
Black Lake sturgeon season lasts 1 day . 6 conditions, and leaks may develop in and inspect the systems at least once
Reminder: GLSFC nominations ........... 6 airlines, creating other areas of weak every seven days. Private groups or
Annual Lake Committee meetings .......... 6
Michigan approves $2 million in grant ..... 7 ice or open water. citizens operating aeration systems
IN 2020-21 Fishing Regs/Guide availabl . 7 The updated list of aerated lakes generally are required to have
Advanced ice fishing class ...................... 7 and more information is available at liability insurance. DNR ensures
Outdoor Skills Academy class ................. 7 mndnr.gov/eco/lakeaeration. permittees comply with all
DEC free indoor Ice Fishing Clinic .......... 7
NY incident rate lowest in history ............ 7 Aeration systems help prevent requirements and regularly inspect
Michigan Free Fishing weekend.............. 7 winterkill of fish populations by systems for safety.
Menominee River AOC soon delisting..... 8 adding oxygen to the lake and, in Some municipalities prohibit
First State-Tribal partnership for AOC ..... 9 certain situations, help protect entering into the thin ice marked
Adult trout stocking schedules available 10
Mille Lacs safe walleye harvest level set10
shorelines from ice damage. They area and/or prohibit the night use of
IN outdoor recreation 5-year plan.......... 10 are generally operated from the time motorized vehicles on lakes with
OH and IL grants .................................. 10 the lakes freeze until the ice breaks aeration systems. Questions? Call a
Report confirms NY world-class fishing . 11 up in the spring. About 260 lakes regional or area fisheries office or
Interactive map for GL shipwrecks ........ 12
Michigan Junior Duck Stamp Contest ... 12
have aeration systems operating on the DNR at 888-646-6367. 
2 Great Lakes Basin Report
$25 million proposed to restore natural
resources in Michigan’s Kalamazoo River
A Consent Decree was announced Inc./Portage Creek/Kalamazoo River
that includes $25 million as a partial Superfund Site. The Trustees have
settlement to restore natural previously used damages collected Established 1972
resources injured by releases of from bankruptcies for habitat
hazardous substances to the restoration, including the Alcott President
Kalamazoo River and Portage Street Dam removal in Daniel N. Thomas, Illinois
Creek, Michigan. Kalamazoo. Vice President
Open
In addition to a partial The public is invited to review Secretary
settlement, the Consent Decree and comment on this Consent Michael D. Sanger, Wisconsin
requires the settling party, NCR Decree, comments may be submitted Treasurer
Corporation, to implement specified on the U.S. Department of Justice Thomas G. Couston, Illinois
clean-up actions, pay an additional website. For more information about
DIRECTORS
amount for future clean-up actions, the settlement, please contact Greg Illinois – Robert Gaik
and reimburse state and federal Baker. For more information about Indiana – Mike Schoonveld
response and damage assessment restoration planning and submitting Michigan – Open
costs. project ideas, please contact Julie Minnesota - Dave Koneczny
New York – Thomas Marks
There will be a 30-day Sims. Ohio – Rick Unger
commenting period. The proposed Ontario – Darryl Choronzey
consent decree will be available on PFBC approves Pennsylvania - Ed Kissell
the Department of Justice website. Wisconsin – Robert Wincek
Under the proposed settlement, removal of fishing
Position Statement
NOAA and co-trustees will use $25 license display reg Representing a major interest in the aquatic
million to plan and complete resources of the Great Lakes states and the
environmental restoration projects. During its formal quarterly business province of Ontario, the Great Lakes Sport
These projects will both benefit meeting on January 28, Fishing Council is a confederation of
Pennsylvania approved the removal organizations and individuals with a concern
injured natural resources, and for the present and future of sport fishing, our
compensate the public for lost of a long-standing regulation that natural resources and the ecosystem in which
recreational opportunities. requires anglers to display their we live. We encourage the wise use of our
Restoration projects will be fishing license on an outer garment resources and a search for the truth about the
while fishing. Under the amendment issues confronting us.
selected with public input. The
Trustees invite interested parties to to Section 63.2 (PA Title 58), the
Inland Seas Angler
suggest habitat and recreational outer garment display requirement
GREAT LAKES BASIN REPORT
restoration project ideas to be will be replaced with a general
possession requirement, which Publisher
considered as planning proceeds. Dan Thomas, 630/941-1351
Project ideas can be submitted at would require only that an angler Editor
the Trustees online portal. carry the license on their person Jeanette Thomas
From the 1950s to the 1970s, while fishing and present the license Webmaster
to a PFBC law enforcement officer Chad Lapa
paper mills in Kalamazoo disposed
of waste and wastewater that upon request. Under the amended
Copyright 2020 by Great Lakes Basin
contained PCBs. Carbonless copy regulation, anglers who still wish to Publications, the INLAND SEAS ANGLERS-GREAT
paper scraps containing PCBs as an display their fishing license on an LAKES BASIN REPORT is the newsletter of the
ink carrier were used and disposed outer garment may continue to do Great Lakes Sport Fishing Council, a federally
so. Also, customers are reminded recognized not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization,
of during de-inking and as part of and recognized for tax-deductible giving by the
the production of new paper. PCBs that when they purchase a fishing federal government.
were released into the soils, license online through The Outdoor Opinions expressed are those of the
sediments, and surface water in the Shop (pa.wildlifelicense.com), an authors and not necessarily those of GLSFC, its
electronic version of their fishing officers or staff. Reproduction of any material by
Kalamazoo River and Portage paid-up members is encouraged, but appropriate
Creek. This resulted in injuries to license is issued and may be saved credit must be given. Reproduction by others
natural resources. Due to high levels and reprinted at no cost in the event without written permission is prohibited.
of contamination in fish, advisories of loss. Anglers should note that
against human consumption of fish the regulation change is not Address Change:
Send six weeks in advance with old mailing label
in any quantity are in place. immediate and will take effect
to GREAT LAKES BASIN REPORT, P.O. Box 297,
In 1990, the U.S. EPA upon publication in the Elmhurst, IL 60126, (630) 941-1351 or
designated areas downstream of the Pennsylvania Bulletin. glsfc444@gmail.com.
releases of PCBs as the Allied Paper,
Great Lakes Basin Report 3
DEC Releases Proposed Blueprint to Guide New York's
Artificial Reef Program
New York State Department of funded in part by a proposed $3 generating billions of dollars through
Environmental Convervation (DEC) billion Environmental Bond Act. tourism, fishing and other industries.
Commissioner Basil Seggos DEC's Artificial Reef Program More than 500,000 anglers in the
announced the release of a proposal manages 12 artificial reef sites in region will reap the benefits of the
that will help shape the future New York State: two reefs in the Governor's initiative, supporting the
management of the state's successful Long Island Sound, two in the Great region's growing marine economy
artificial reef program. The draft South Bay, and eight artificial reefs in which accounts for approximately 9.7
Supplemental Generic Environmental the Atlantic Ocean that stretch from percent of Long Island's total GDP.
Impact Statement (SGEIS) helps Rockaway to Shinnecock on the south In 1993, DEC completed a
assess and evaluate the continued use shore and from Matinecock to Generic Environmental Impact
of existing offshore artificial reef Smithtown on the north shore. Statement (GEIS) and Artificial Reef
sites, the expansion of some existing Governor Cuomo's Artificial Reef Plan, allowing for the State and the
reef sites, and the development of Initiative, launched in 2018, is U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to
new reef sites as proposed by deploying large volumes of cleaned, issue permits to develop artificial reef
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo in his recycled, and out-of-use materials sites through the placement of
2020 State of the State Address. from state agencies onto reef sites, materials that meet program goals and
"When complete, the Generic including old Tappan Zee Bridge objectives outlined in the GEIS.
Environmental Impact Statement will materials, former Canal Corporation Funded through New York's
create a blueprint for our marine vessels, retired Canal lock miter gates Environmental Protection Fund, the
fisheries program that serves an and lift bridge, retired New York SGEIS will update the existing GEIS
integral role in New York's fisheries Power Authority turbines, and former to address advances in science and
management," said Commissioner materials from the State Department expertise surrounding artificial reef
Seggos. "Governor Cuomo recognizes of Transportation, among other development since 1993.
the benefits artificial reefs provide for materials. In November, the The Draft SGEIS is available
anglers, divers, and in the Governor announced the final for review through DEC's Artificial
enhancement of New York's fishery materials deployment for 2019, Reef webpage. Public hearings will
resources. Through the Restore resulting in a total of 87 successful be held on February 10, 2020, at 6
Mother Nature Initiative, New York new patch reefs created over two p.m. at DEC's Marine Resources
continues to demonstrate the State's years. Headquarters, 205 North Belle Mead
commitment to the ongoing success The state's artificial reefs are Road, East Setauket.
of the largest reef expansion in state built out of hard, durable structures DEC encourages the public to
history. Reefs provide habitat for fish such as rock, concrete, and steel, provide comments on the draft
species ranging from fluke to cod, all usually in the form of surplus or scrap SGEIS; submit by email to:
of which contribute to the success of materials (e.g. vessels, dredge rock, ArtificialReefs@dec.ny.gov
New York's commercial and and military vehicles, etc.). All (reference "Reef Program Draft
recreational anglers and the ongoing harmful substances are removed from SGEIS" in the subject of the email) or
expansion of opportunities for the material before it is deployed on by mail to Christopher LaPorta,
regional tourism." the reef sites. As quickly as the NYSDEC 205 N Belle Mead Road,
In the 2020 State of the State material settles on the sea floor, the Suite 1, East Setauket, NY 11733.
address, Governor Cuomo unveiled reef structure begins to fill with Comments will be accepted through
the new Restore Mother Nature marine life. Fish like blackfish, black February 21, 2020.
initiative and committed to doubling sea bass, scup, fluke, hake, and cod Artificial reef construction is part
New York's existing reef acreage by move in to check out the new of Governor Cuomo's NY Open for
expanding seven existing sites and structure. Lobsters and crabs take up Fishing and Hunting, an effort to
creating four new artificial reefs in residence, and encrusting organisms improve recreational activities for in-
Long Island Sound and the Atlantic like barnacles, sponges, anemones, state and out-of-state sportsmen and
Ocean. This expansion will be corals, and mussels cling to and cover sportswomen and to boost tourism
complete by 2022, resulting in an the material. Over time, the structure opportunities throughout the state.
even stronger and more diverse teems with sea life, creating a habitat For more information about
marine ecosystem. Restore Mother similar to a natural reef. DEC's Artificial Reef Program visit
Nature will be the nation's most New York's marine resources are DEC's website.
aggressive program for habitat critical to the state's economy,
restoration and flood reduction, supporting nearly 350,000 jobs and4 Great Lakes Basin Report
Marine Safety Unit Chicago seeks participation in Waterways Assessment
CHICAGO, IL – The U.S. representatives can provide input
Coast Guard is conducting a until April 15, 2020. The survey
Waterways Analysis and is available in PDF format when
Management System (WAMS) requested, and may also be found
review of the Chicago and online at:
Calumet Harbors’ Aids to https://www.surveymonkey.co
Navigation (ATON). The m/r/TJDJLVR. In addition to
purpose of this review is to stakeholder input on ATON, the
ensure the existing aids are study will also consider comment
both efficient and effective. on environmental concerns, user
MSU Chicago invites all capabilities, technology, and
mariners, sailors, boat owners, available resources. The Coast
recreational operators, and Guard has no jurisdiction over
commercial stakeholders to dredging in these waterways,
participate in the 2020 WAMS. however any information
The area covered in this review gathered concerning incorrectly
includes all ATON charted depths will be provided to
encompassed in the Chicago the appropriate agencies.
and Calumet Harbors, which For more information,
are listed specifically in Light questions or concerns, contact
List Numbers 19575-20301. MSU Chicago: D09-DG-
Individual mariners and MSUChicago-Waterways@
interested maritime industry uscg.mil or 630-986-2155.
Oneida Lake adult walleye population hits one million fish
New York announced that anglers Randy Jackson, Associate anticipated to push the adult
have at least one million reasons to Director of the Cornell Biological population even higher next year.
fish for walleye in Oneida Lake, Field Station at Shackelton Point, DEC will continue to work with the
according to a study with Cornell U. said, "Walleye anglers took U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to
researchers who have been tracking advantage of this booming develop an approach for cormorant
the lake's walleye population for population in 2019, and experienced management to safeguard our
more than 60 years. The population catch rates over 0.5 fish per hour. fisheries from over-predation by
of adult walleye was estimated to be With another large year class these fish-eating birds.
one million fish in 2019, a level that expected to recruit into the fishery in To help manage the Oneida
has not been reached since the 2020, we expect walleye fishing to Lake walleye fishery, more than 150
1980s. remain excellent in Oneida Lake for million walleye fry (newly hatched
"It has been three decades since several years to come." fish only a few millimeters long) are
we've seen the Oneida Lake walleye The DEC and Cornell study annually stocked in the lake. The
population this abundant, and it is results represent a remarkable legal minimum size for walleye in
twice the size observed in any year recovery of the adult population of the lake is 15 inches, and there is a
since 1993," said Commissioner walleye, which declined through the reduced daily possession limit of
Seggos. "Oneida Lake is a nationally 1990s and has remained steady at three walleye. Walleye season runs
recognized fishery and we expect the around 400,000 fish since 2000. To from the first Saturday in May
fishing to be even better in the rebuild the walleye population, DEC through March 15. For tips on
coming years, cementing New implemented special regulations and fishing for walleye visit DEC's
York's status as a world-class managed a growing population of Fishing for Walleye webpage. For
destination for anglers. This robust cormorants on the lake. Large year additional NY walleye fishing
walleye population is due to DEC's classes of walleye in 2010 and 2014 destinations: DEC's Statewide
responsive management and the have contributed to the walleye Walleye Fishing Opportunities
dedicated research performed by population increase, and another webpage.
Cornell University." strong year class from 2016 isGreat Lakes Basin Report 5
DNR approves 10-yr Regulations for Muskie School to be
trout mgmt plan catching some Ohio held March 14, at
MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin River fish change Waunakee HS
DNR recently approved its first The Indiana DNR has amended The Capital City Chapter of
statewide trout management plan. regulations for catching sauger, Muskies, Inc. announced that the
The plan provides direction for walleye, and saugeye on the Ohio 19th Annual Intermediate and
inland trout management in River. The new rule, which took Advanced Muskie School to be held
Wisconsin and will be in effect from effect January 19, permits a bag on Saturday, March 14th, 2020. This
2020 to 2029. The plan covers limit of six Sander species, the unique all-day training opportunity
Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow collective term for these fish, in will be held at Waunakee High
Trout and Lake Trout in inland aggregate per day, a possession limit School in Waunakee, WI and is
lakes, ponds and streams of of 12 Sanders in aggregate, and a open to the public.
Wisconsin, including tributaries of minimum length limit of 14 inches. If you want to improve your
the Great Lakes upstream from Previous regulations permitted the muskie fishing skills/knowledge,
impassible barriers such as dams and take of 10 Sanders in aggregate per here is a great opportunity for you.
naturally occurring falls. day, a possession limit of 20 This intense, all-day school offers
The inland trout management plan Sanders, and had no minimum classes such as row trolling, Lake of
includes four primary goals: length limit. This DNR rule aligns the Woods in Ontario, lure
Protect, enhance and restore Indiana regulations for the Ohio demonstrations in the pool, making
sustainable cold-water aquatic River with Kentucky regulations. wooden baits & spinner baits, Green
habitats and ecosystems; Sauger is the most sought after Bay Muskie Fishing, Madison Chain
Protect, develop, enhance and of the Sander species on the Ohio. Muskies, filming your muskie catch,
restore trout populations and trout During the winter and early spring, Basic Muskie Fishing and lots of
angling opportunities for the diverse sauger congregate downstream of additional classes.
preferences and needs of our dams and provide prime angling To promote youth involvement
participants; opportunities; however, high harvest the tuition is reduced to only $10 for
Collect, develop and use the best rates are not allowing the sauger youth (17 or under). Tuition for
science to guide trout management population to reach its full potential. adults is $35 (early-bird price) or
decisions; and The Ohio River Fisheries $45 if fee received on or after
Maintain and expand partnerships Management Team (ORFMT) March 9th, 2020.
and engage diverse anglers, analyzed long-term survey data and Doors open at 7:30 and the
stakeholders and the general public recommended these regulations in program ends at 4:00 p.m. This is a
on trout management and angling 2019 in an effort to increase the size very affordable opportunity to help
opportunities. and age structure and therefore the muskie anglers learn much more
The Wisconsin DNR trout team quality of the Ohio River sauger about muskie fishing and to prepare
developed the trout management fishery as a way to ensure the sauger for the 2020 season. For more info
plan with the input of a stakeholder population remains sustainable for and to register online:
team composed of individuals future generations. www.capitalcitymuskiesinc.org.
representing various groups across For more info regarding the new The Capital City Chapter of
the state, such as anglers, regs, visit https://www.IN.gov/nrc/ Muskies Inc. is a volunteer
landowners and farmers. The trout files/lsa20007e.pdf. organization established in 1983 and
team met twice with the stakeholder has over 300 members residing
group at the University of primarily in central Wisconsin and
Wisconsin-Stevens Point to create NY Free Fishing
in conjunction with other local
the plan, and the stakeholder team Weekend – Feb 15-16 fishing clubs has donated nearly
also reviewed the draft plan. $100,000 to stock muskies in local
In spring 2019, the department Ice fishing is a great way to get
outdoors during the winter months. lakes. Many generous donors
released a draft of the plan to the including Abu Garcia, Fenwick and
public and presented it at statewide February 15-16 is a Free Fishing
Weekend, where anyone can fish Westin Fishing provide support for
public meetings for additional public the school.
input. The Wisconsin Natural New York’s waters without a fishing
license. If you’re an experienced Contact:
Resources Board approved the plan www.capitalcitymuskiesinc.org;
at the October 2019 meeting. The angler, consider introducing a friend
or family member to the sport. Or if Geoff Crandall, crandall@
final version of the plan will be used msbnrg.com (608-219-0164
to guide trout management in you’ve always wanted to try ice
fishing but don’t know where to mobile); or Steve Reinstra at
Wisconsin over the next 10 years. mpd339r@charter.net or 608-770-
This plan can be accessed on the start, attend a free fishing clinic
near you this winter. 7131.
DNR website here. 6 Great Lakes Basin Report
2020 Black Lake Public Meeting for Annual Lake
sturgeon season lasts Bluefish and Summer Committees meetings
one day Flounder, Scup, and scheduled for March
This year’s sturgeon season on Black Sea Bass 2020
Black Lake ended at 1:40 p.m., The Mid-Atlantic Fishery ● Upper Lakes (Huron, Michigan
February 1—not quite six hours after Management Council (MAFMC) & Superior)
the day’s 8 a.m. start. and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries March 17-20, 2020,
The fishing season, which Commission (ASMFC) are Delta (Marriott) Sault Ste. Marie
included spearing or hook-and-line developing the Bluefish Allocation Waterfront,
fishing, was scheduled to run and Rebuilding Amendment to Sault Ste. Marie, ON
February 1-5, or until the harvest review and possibly revise the The Upper Lake Committees
quota had been reached. This year's allocation of Atlantic bluefish Meeting serves as a forum for
allocation of sturgeon for Black between the commercial and fishery management agencies to
Lake anglers was seven fish, recreational fisheries and the assess the state of the fish
although DNR officials set a harvest commercial allocations to the states. communities, discuss pressing Great
quota of six fish to reduce the risk of MAFMC and ASMFC are also Lakes issues, and plan future
over-fishing. developing a joint amendment to management activities. Throughout
There were 472 registered reevaluate and potentially revise the the week, there will be sessions for
anglers on the ice Saturday, the commercial and recreational sector individual lake committees, a
highest total since the inception of allocations in the Summer Flounder, common session about Lake
the open Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Whitefish, etc.
sturgeon Management Plan (FMP). For more info: 2020 Upper
fishery. Lake Committee Meetings
Three of February 27, 2020
the six Stony Brook U., School of Marine ● Lower Lakes (Erie & Ontario)
sturgeon and Atmospheric Sciences March 24-26, 2020
harveste Endeavor Hall, Room 120, Sheraton Hamilton Hotel,
d were Stony Brook, New York 11794 Hamilton, ON
males The Lower Lake Committees
ranging Meeting serves as a forum for
from 44 fishery management agencies to
to 60 assess the state of the fish
inches
length, and 16 to 51 pounds in
in Reminder: communities, discuss pressing Great
Lakes issues, and plan future
management activities. Throughout
weight. The three females ranged the week, there will be sessions for
from 47 to 75 inches long, and 19 to
100 pounds in weight. GLSFC individual lake committees, a State
of the Lake Report for Lake Ontario,
Participating anglers were
notified of the season’s end in a nominations etc.
For more info: 2020 Lower
variety of ways: text alerts to those Lake Committee Meetings
who provided cell phone numbers, a
fishing telephone hotline, UAW Nominations and elections
Black Lake Conference Center siren, for all GLSFC officers
and ice shanty visits from DNR
personnel. All methods were used
and directors are open this
within minutes of the final fish being year. Ballots will be
harvested. DNR fisheries and law mailed next month to all
enforcement officials were
embedded in the on-ice fishing clubs who are paid up and
communities and were able to in good standing. All
quickly report harvested fish and
contact all participating anglers
positions are open for ‘21-
about the season's close. ‘22
For more information on lake
sturgeon in Michigan, visit
Michigan.gov/Sturgeon.Great Lakes Basin Report 7
Michigan approves $2 Indiana: 2020-2021 DEC free indoor Ice
million in recreation Fishing Regulations/ Fishing Clinic Feb 19
grants for parks/trails Guide now available New York DEC Region 1 I FISH
Michigan recently approved nearly Pick up your hard copy of the 2020- NY program will hold an Indoor Ice
$2 million in Recreation Passport 2021 Indiana Fishing Regulation Fishing seminar on February 19,
grant funding. The $1,993,500 will Guide this month from one of our 2020, from 7 to 9 p.m. The seminar
be shared by 18 communities across properties or retailers. The guide is will take place at the DEC Region 1
the state for local park improvement now available online. Highlights of Headquarters at 50 Circle Road,
projects, including playground the new guide include: 2020 free Stony Brook, NY 11742. The
renovations, sports and fitness fishing days, 2019 Fish of the Year seminar is geared anglers wanting to
facility improvements, and trail and winners, State Record Fish, crappie break into the great sport of ice
walkway development. fishing locations and tips, and fishing. DEC's I FISH New York
View a full list and descriptions information about Indiana’s striped staff will cover ice safety,
of the most recent Recreation bass management program. equipment, fish handling, and rules
Passport Grant Program recipients. and regulations.
Counties where funded grant Pre-registration required.
Advanced ice fishing Participation will be capped at 30
projects have been approved include
Alcona, Antrim, Bay, Benzie (two class Feb 21-23 people. Call the DEC's freshwater
projects), Berrien, Genesee, fisheries unit at (631) 444-0283 or
The Michigan DNR Outdoor Skills email to register. For more
Houghton, Lapeer, Lenawee, Academy will offer the Advanced
Mecosta, Midland, Ogemaw, information on statewide ice fishing
Hard Water School ice fishing opportunities and ice fishing in
Presque Isle, Saginaw, Sanilac, clinic at Mitchell State Park in
Schoolcraft and Wexford. general, visit DEC's website.
Cadillac February 21-23. This
“Recreation Passport grants three-day class will cover specific
support local government efforts to topics – each student will pick a NY Hunting Safety
offer residents and visitors quality topic of interest and will be assigned Statistics incident
recreation opportunities,” said Dan a pro fisherman from Team USA,
Lord, DNR grants manager. HT Enterprises, Clam Outdoors,
rate lowest in history
“Together, state and local Vexilar or Ice Force – and will New York’s 2019 hunting seasons
governments work closely to include time out on the ice and in the were the safest on record. DEC
improve quality of life and increase classroom. Cost is $75, which documented seven tree stand
tourism in communities across the includes some meals, bait and door incidents and one fatality in 2019.
state.” prizes/goody bags. Of the 12 Hunting Related Shooting
Funding for this program is Incidents that occurred last year,
derived from sales of Michigan’s seven were two-party firearm
Recreation Passport, required for Outdoor Skills
incidents, five were self-inflicted,
vehicle entry into 103 state parks Academy class March and one resulted in a fatality. All of
and recreation areas, 140 state forest
campgrounds, hundreds of miles of
7-8 these incidents could have been
prevented if hunting safety rules had
state trails, historic sites, hundreds of The Michigan DNR Outdoor Skills been followed. The one fatal
boating access sites and other Academy will offer the Hard Water incident was caused by a failure to
outdoor spaces. School (ice fishing class) at Mitchell positively identify the target. For
When people choose to support State Park in Cadillac, March 7-8. more info: DEC’s website.
the Recreation Passport program This two-day class covers
while renewing their license plate everything from how to set up
registration with the Secretary of equipment and how and where to Michigan Free Fishing
State, our local communities benefit, fish to ice safety and rules and Weekend Feb. 15-17
too. The more people who regulations, with a focus on
participate in this program, the more techniques for panfish, walleye and Anglers will not need a license to
is given back to our local pike. Cost is $25. The Outdoor fish February 15-17. No fishing
communities. Skills Academy offers in-depth, license is required during the annual
Application materials for the expert instruction, gear and hands-on winter Free Fishing Weekend,
next round of Recreation Passport learning for a range of outdoor February 15 and 16, and the DNR
grants, due April 1, are available at activities at locations around the also is allowing free fishing on
Michigan.gov/DNRGrants. state. Monday, Feb. 17, to coincide with
More info: 517-284-7268 or See a full calendar of classes at the time the license system is
DNR-Grants@Michigan.gov . Michigan.gov/OutdoorSkills. unavailable. All rules and
regulations still apply. 8 Great Lakes Basin Report
Menominee River Area of Concern on path to delisting
MADISON, Wis. – After 30 years of happy to report that the DNR Great Waters, Michigan EGLE and
pollution cleanup and restoration continues to strive for safe, clean supported by the Lower Menominee
efforts, the Wisconsin DNR and water for every part of the state for River AOC Technical and Citizens
Michigan DOE, Great Lakes and both our public health and economic Advisory Committees. All delisting
Energy (EGLE) are proposing to future." review steps are expected to be
remove the Lower Menominee The international Great Lakes completed in 2020. A public
River Area of Concern from a list Water Quality Agreement between meeting is planned for April 2020 to
of the 43 most polluted places on the the U.S. and Canada, signed in 1987, give people more information about
Great Lakes. designated the Great Lakes rivers the delisting process, opportunities
Both Wisconsin and Michigan and harbors most severely affected to ask questions and provide
provided the U.S.EPA's Great Lakes by pollution and habitat loss as feedback.
National Program Office with a "Areas of Concern" or AOCs. In addition to pollution cleanup,
preliminary report that summarizes Michigan's Upper Peninsula and many habitat restoration projects
the reasons for delisting. The U.S. northeastern Wisconsin meet at the were also completed in the AOC.
EPA has taken the next step by Menominee River, which flows into For example, fish passage was
seeking input on the proposed Lake Michigan's Green Bay. restored over the Park Mill and
delisting from tribal representatives Environmental harm from historical Menominee dams in 2016, returning
and the International Joint pollution from coal tar, paint sludge, an 18-mile stretch of prime
Commission. An additional public and arsenic earned the lower three spawning habitat for lake sturgeon.
review opportunity will follow this miles of the river and the Green Bay More than 133 acres of shorelands,
step in the delisting process and is shoreline – three miles north and wetlands and uplands were restored
anticipated to occur in the next few south of the river mouth – an AOC at Menekaunee Harbor and the
months. designation. South Channel, providing vital
"This is a very significant The Lower Menominee River habitat for fish, birds and other
improvement in the water quality for was listed as having six problems, wildlife.
Green Bay, which, like every part of called "Beneficial Use Impairments" Menekaunee Harbor is now
the state deserves safe, clean water. in the AOC Program. All six of cleaner, deeper and better able to
We will continue to work in this part these impairments have been accommodate recreational and
of the state to ensure that addressed, so now the agencies are commercial fishing boats. As a
Wisconsinites have access to clean proposing to "delist" or remove the result of this cleanup effort, the
drinking water coming from their Lower Menominee River from the harbor was chosen as one of the sites
taps and that businesses can thrive in international list of Great Lakes for Cabela's 2017 and 2019 National
areas not endangered by toxic AOCs. This will be Wisconsin's first Walleye Tours—events that
sediment," said DNR Secretary- of five AOCs to be delisted. contribute to the revitalized
designee Preston D. Cole. "I am The delisting proposal is made economic prosperity of the area.
by the Wisconsin DNR Office of
USFWS Cormorant https://www.regulations.gov/docke Please see the Federal Register
Management t?D=FWS-HQ-MB-2019-0103 notice for more details.
Continued from page 1 ● Electronically: Go to the Federal The U.S. Fish and Wildlife
eRulemaking Portal: service will post all comments on
Public scoping for the http://www.regulations.gov. http://www.regulations.gov,
rulemaking process began with the Follow the instructions for including any personal information
publication of the ANPR in the submitting comments to Docket No. you provide. The Service will hold
Federal Register on January 22, FWS-HQ-MB-2019-0103. public scoping meetings in the form
2020 Federal Register notice, and of multiple webinars in February.
Comment Now!
will continue for 45 days until
March 9, 2020. You may submit ● By hard copy: Submit by U.S. More information about the
written comments by one of the mail to Public Comments rulemaking process will be posted
following methods. Please do not Processing, Attn: FWS–HQ–MB– https://www.fws.gov/birds/manage
submit comments by both. We do 2019–0103; USFWS, MS: JAO/1N, ment/managed-species/double-
not accept email or faxes. 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, crested-cormorants.php, or Jerome
You can easily submit your VA 22041–3803. Ford, USFWS, 202-208-1050.
comments and view the 84 The Service seeks comments or
comments provided to date: suggestions from all concerned.Great Lakes Basin Report 9
DEC and Mohawk Tribe announce first-ever State-Tribal
Partnership for Area of Concern
Unique St. Lawrence River Restoration will benefit region's ecosystem and cultures
The New York State DEC and the under the Great Lakes Water Quality helping the governments’ move
Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) Agreement." toward ultimately delisting the St.
announced the signing of a historic Areas of Concern are Lawrence River as an Area of
cooperative agreement that will help geographic areas around the Great Concern.
accelerate restoration of natural Lakes that are environmentally The agreement also includes the
resources and traditional Native degraded. In 1987, the Great Lakes formal renaming of this unique
American uses within the St. Water Quality Agreement location from the "St. Lawrence
Lawrence River Area of Concern designated 43 AOCs in order to River at Massena" to the "St.
(AOC) near Massena, New York, focus restoration work on these Lawrence River Area of Concern at
and the Akwesasne Territory. This areas. The Massena area of the St. Massena/Akwesasne" to better
cooperative agreement is the first of Lawrence River was originally listed represent the AOC's geographic
its kind across the United States as an AOC because of elevated scope and the longstanding efforts of
portion of the Great Lakes and levels of heavy metals and PCBs in the Mohawk governments at
provides a new roadmap for sediments, wildlife, and water Akwesasne to protect and enhance
coordinating studies and restoring samples collected in the lower the water quality of territorial
natural and cultural resource uses Grasse, Raquette, and St. Regis waterways. A new map has been
between the two government rivers. Significant progress is being developed that captures the extent of
agencies, while recognizing their made in remediating and restoring the Akwesasne Territory and
unique jurisdictions and shared these waters, but more work identifies traditional use areas within
interests. remains. the AOC. The map also identifies
"The formalization of this To set the stage for this areas of the Akwesasne community
agreement is the culmination of a agreement between DEC and the that are overseen by respective
new, exciting, and historic Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, Mohawk governments, which will
partnership between the Saint Regis extensive consultations were held now be used to better inform and
Mohawk Tribal Council and New that culminated in the U.S. coordinate efforts associated with
York State," said DEC Environmental Protection Agency's the AOC's Remedial Action Plan
Commissioner Basil Seggos. (EPA) recognition of three amongst various environmental
"Representatives from each worked administrative changes to the AOC's agencies and stakeholders.
diligently over the past several Remedial Action Plan. Key features Map of St. Lawrence River Area of
months to finalize this formal of the cooperative agreement Concern at Massena/Akwesasne
agreement and I look forward to include:
working together to restore the St. 1. Having representatives of both
Lawrence region's habitat and DEC and the SRMT serve as Misc PFBC issues
wildlife for the benefit of current co-coordinators for
and future generations." implementation of the AOC's PA Fish Commissioners adopted
"When the Area of Concern was Remedial Action Plan; changes to the seasons, sizes and
first identified in 1987, the Saint 2. Developing resource restoration creel limits within Lake Erie, its
Regis Mohawk Tribe voiced the plans to include both natural tributaries and Presque Isle Bay
need to have Akwesasne recognized and cultural resources within the including peninsula waters, Erie
as an equal partner in remediating AOC; and County. To maintain regulatory
the serious environmental pollution 3. Enhanced outreach and consistency and simplicity, Lake
inflicted upon our territory," the education of surrounding Erie, Lake tributaries, Presque Isle
Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council communities to improve the Bay, and peninsular water walleye
said. Tribal Council added, understanding and support of seasonal opening days were
"Through the coordination of our the agencies efforts. scheduled to coincide with
environmental programs, which One immediate outcome of the Commonwealth Inland Waters
included the diligent efforts of state-tribal partnership will be the (January 1 – March 14, 2020; and
SRMT St. Lawrence River AOC revitalization of the Remedial 12:01 a.m. on the first Saturday in
Program Manager Jessica Jock, our Advisory Committee to consist of May to midnight, December 31,
special position and environmental members of the local Massena 2020). The amendment will go into
expertise is now acknowledged in community and tribal representatives effect upon publication in the
the first state-tribal partnership who will each embrace their Pennsylvania Bulletin.
throughout the Great Lakes Basin collective role and responsibilities in10 Great Lakes Basin Report
2020 adult trout Mille Lacs safe Indiana’s new outdoor
stocking schedules walleye harvest level recreation five-year
now available set plan is available
Excitement for the spring trout Minnesota DNR biologists and The latest in a long line of five-year
fishing season begins now as the fisheries biologists from the eight plans to help determine the future
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Chippewa bands that retain fishing public outdoor recreation needs of
Commission makes its 2020 adult rights under terms of an 1837 treaty all Indiana residents and plan for
trout stocking schedules available reached agreement on the 2020 that future is available from the
online and on the PFBC's Mille Lacs Lake safe harvest level DNR. Just as similar organizations
"FishBoatPA" mobile app. Trout for walleye. They established those in other states, the Indiana DNR is
stocking schedules can be accessed levels on January 22, setting the required to create a comprehensive
quickly and easily through the walleye safe harvest level at 150,000 state-level outdoor recreation plan
increasingly popular, free lbs., the same as last year. State- every five years. This planning
FishBoatPA mobile app for licensed anglers can harvest 87,800 process keeps Indiana eligible to
smartphones, or at lbs. of walleye during the 2019-2020 obtain funds from the Land and
www.fishandboat.com. The ice fishing season and the 2020 Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
schedule is searchable by county, open-water season. Tribal fishing is that DNR then re-grants to park
lists the waterways in alphabetical subject to a 62,200-lb. limit during boards in counties, townships, cities,
order, and indicates stocking dates the same period. and towns.
and the species of trout that will be Open water walleye regulations The new 140-page Statewide
stocked. 2020 Pennsylvania fishing will need to consider this winter’s Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation
licenses are available for purchase harvest and the expected conditions Plan, which covers 2016-2020 and
online through The Outdoor Shop, during spring and summer. That includes the 2021-2025 Indiana
www.pa.wildlifelicense.com, or by work will occur during the next six Trails Plan, can be downloaded at
visiting any of the more than 700 weeks as winter walleye fishing www.dnr.IN.gov/outdoor/4201.ht
retail license issuing agents across comes to an end on Mille Lacs. The m. The site also includes
the state. To participate in trout DNR will announce open-water information on how the study is
fishing and keep trout, anglers ages fishing regulations for Mille Lacs done.
16 and older require both a fishing Lake in late March. For more info: For more info: contact DNR
license and a trout/salmon permit. mndnr.gov/millelacslake Outdoor Recreation’s Greg Beilfuss
at 317-232-4071 or gbeilfuss@
ODNR provides $250K $29.7 million in grants dnr.IN.gov.
in Boating Safety for Illinois park Gov wants $3 million
Education Grants projects + in grants for Illinois
across Ohio IL Governor JB Pritzker has recreation projects
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Nineteen announced $29.7 million in grants
community boating safety education for 85 local projects which will help Governor JB Pritzker recommended
programs received a total of communities acquire open space and to two federal agencies more than $3
$250,000 this year through the develop and improve recreational million in federal grants for projects
Boating Safety Education Grant, facilities throughout Illinois. to help communities acquire open
according to the Ohio DNR. “Investments in local park projects space for development of outdoor
Individual grant awards provided by are good for families and recreation recreational facilities and meet the
ODNR’s Division of Parks and enthusiasts, helping them enjoy growing demand for improved trails.
Watercraft range from $4,488 to outdoor activities and making The grants, supported through the
$24,513. Grants are funded by Illinois communities better places to Land and Water Conservation Fund
Ohio’s recreational boaters through live and work,” Governor Pritzker (LWCF) and Recreational Trails
the Waterways Safety Fund, which said. “Parks projects also boost local Program (RTP), are awarded by the
is comprised of a share of the state economic development efforts and National Park Service and Federal
motor fuel tax, watercraft spur additional investment Highway Administration
registration and titling fees, and throughout the state.” respectively. For a list of this year’s
funding from the U.S. Coast Guard. For a list of this year’s grant recommended LWCF grants and
recipients: project info: https://www.dnr.illinois.
This year’s grants by Ohio county:
https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/news/P gov/news/Pages/Gov-Pritzker-
Boating Safety Grants across
ages/Governor-Pritzker-Announces- Recommends-More-Than-$3-
Ohio.
$29.7-Million-in-Grants-for-Illinois- Million-in-Grants-for-Illinois-
Park-Projects.aspx Recreation-Projects-.aspx Great Lakes Basin Report 11
Anglers' Report confirms New York's World-Class Freshwater Fishing
New York DEC Commissioner Basil freshwaters of New York State primarily largemouth and
Seggos announced that the state's during the 2017 calendar year. smallmouth bass. Coldwater
world-class fishing opportunities Combined direct, indirect, and gamefish were also popular (28%),
continue to draw anglers from near induced economic impacts of including brown trout, rainbow
and far to New York's many freshwater angling in New York trout, brook trout, steelhead, and
productive freshwater sportfisheries. State totaled an estimated $2.14 Chinook salmon. Anglers fished
New data on angler effort, patterns, billion and supported 10,961 jobs in primarily on inland lakes and ponds
preferences, and attitudes was 2017. Of this total, out-of-state (49%), inland streams and rivers
released recently as part of DEC's anglers contributed approximately (25%), and the Great Lakes and
statewide survey of freshwater 26 percent, or $564 million. tributaries (22%).
anglers, which helps DEC assess Freshwater anglers spent an In his 2020 State of the State
both the biological and human estimated $252 million at New York Address Cuomo proposed the
dimension aspects of managing New fishing destinations in 2017, and an Restore Mother Nature initiative, the
York's freshwater fisheries. additional $204 million was nation's most aggressive program for
"New York is privileged to have expended at home or while traveling significant habitat restoration and
an amazing diversity of freshwater to fishing destinations. Purchases of flood reduction. Restore Mother
resources," Commissioner Seggos fishing equipment and fishing- Nature will reduce flood risk and
said. "From remote Adirondack related equipment such as boats, revitalize critical fish and wildlife
brook trout streams and ponds to the motors, etc., generated an estimated habitats by connecting streams and
magnificent Great Lakes, our state's $1.8 billion in additional waterways, right-sizing culverts and
freshwater fisheries are among the expenditures. dams, restoring freshwater and tidal
very best in North America. DEC is Results of the survey revealed wetlands, reclaiming natural
committed to effectively managing significant increases in angler effort floodplains, restocking shellfish
these resources to maintain high- for a number of waters when populations and upgrading fish
quality angling opportunities and the compared to a 2007 angler survey. hatcheries, preserving open space,
recreational and economic benefits The Saranac River experienced the conserving more forest areas,
they provide. These survey results greatest increase in angler effort replanting more trees, reducing
reinforce what New Yorkers already (150%) as more anglers visited to contamination from agricultural and
know-freshwater angling in New fish primarily for smallmouth bass stormwater runoff, and expanding
York State is not only alive and and brown trout. There was an renewable energy. One of the goals
well, it's thriving, and this survey increase of 141% in the number of of the initiative is to make New
will help guide our efforts in the anglers fishing Irondequoit Creek, a York the top state for recreational
years to come." Lake Ontario tributary near fishing. As part of a proposed $3
New York State offers world Rochester, with a focus primarily on billion Environmental Bond Act,
class fishing for a wide variety of brown trout and steelhead. The New York would invest in its world-
cold water and warm water species. Delaware River in southeastern New class fish hatcheries. The Governor's
Whether it is smallmouth bass York has long been popular for trout program will also improve New
fishing on Lake Erie, brook trout fishing, and angler effort increased York's network of fishing access
fishing on a crystal-clear by about 140% from 2007. Conesus sites, hand launch boat sites, and
Adirondack lake, Pacific salmon Lake saw an increase of 155% in public fishing rights with an
fishing on Lake Ontario, fishing for angler activity, with northern pike, emphasis on warmwater streams and
stripers on the Hudson River, brown largemouth bass, and smallmouth rivers. Full results of DEC's
trout fishing on the Beaver Kill or bass among the lake's most popular Statewide Angler Survey can be
fishing for panfish on a local pond, species. Other waterbodies that found at DEC's website.
there is something special in New experienced a marked increase in
York for every angler. In its 2019 angling activity included Whitney
rankings, and for the first time ever, Point Reservoir (76%), Lake
Bassmaster Magazine named the St. Champlain (72%), and the Batten
More Michigan
Lawrence River as the top bass Kill (61%). Fishing Classes
fishing destination in the nation. Freshwater anglers enjoyed an
Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery -
DEC has surveyed its licensed estimated 19.89 million angler days
Beginner Fly Fishing for Women
freshwater anglers once every in 2017 in New York's inland and
April 25
decade since 1973. This survey was Great Lakes waters, slightly more
Mitchell State Park - Bass Fishing
conducted in 2018, and summarizes than a similar survey conducted for
for Beginners Clinic May 17
the input provided by approximately 2007. Many anglers fished for
11,000 anglers that fished the warmwater gamefish (44%),12 Great Lakes Basin Report
New interactive map highlights Great Lakes shipwrecks and their lore
The cold, fresh waters of the Great these ships. “This new tool gives Others, such as the Indiana, a
Lakes are literally littered with divers, kayakers, snorkelers and propeller vessel that went down in
shipwrecks—pieces of history armchair explorers a chance to learn Lake Superior in 1858, are in more
capturing chapters of a time when more about these underwater than 100 feet of water and require
transport by water was as important archaeological sites and the advanced diving skills. The map
as transport by land. Some, like the circumstances that led to the will be updated as more ships are
Syracuse, recall the Great Lakes’ shipwrecks,” said Sandra Clark, discovered and more information
sailing heyday, when goods and director of the Michigan History becomes available.
people routinely plied the lakes Center. “It’s a wonderfully Users may notice that some
along well-used routes. The interactive way to help people high-profile wrecks, such as the Carl
Syracuse, a two-masted schooner connect with this part of Michigan’s D Bradley, which sank in Lake
carrying a cargo of coal, sank in maritime history.” Michigan in November 1958, are not
Lake Huron on November 10, 1863. listed. Because crew members went
The app map offers information
Other shipwrecks speak to more down with these ships, they are
about each ship, including:
recent times when steel behemoths considered underwater burial sites.
● The difficulty level of diving to
like the 600-foot Cedarville, Clark reminds the public that
the wreck.
shepherding a cargo of limestone, Michigan law prohibits removal of
● Whether the wreck is accessible
collided with a Norwegian ship in any artifacts from shipwrecks. “The
by kayak or canoe.
the fog on May 7, 1965. Ten crew wrecks on the Great Lakes
● The circumstances of the sinking.
members died, and the ship, broken bottomlands belong to the people of
● A description of the ship, with
nearly in two, sank in more than a Michigan,” she said. “If everyone
photos and drawings (if available).
hundred feet of water. The Syracuse follows the rule of ’take only
and the Cedarville are among 1,500 The map also highlights pictures and leave only bubbles,” we
shipwrecks submerged in Michigan Michigan’s underwater preserves can ensure that these underwater
waters, making up one-quarter of the and water trails. Sonar image of the time capsules will be available for
estimated 6,000 wrecks found Syracuse wreck from October future generations to explore,
throughout the Great Lakes. 2013.Some wrecks, such as the research and enjoy.” Visit and
Now, thanks to the recently wooden bulk freighter Daisy Day, explore both the story-map and
launched Michigan Shipwrecks lie in as little as 10 feet of water and public web app at
StoryMap, it’s easy to learn about are suitable for beginning divers and Michigan.gov/ExploreShipwrecks.
the mystery and tragedy surrounding visible to paddlers and snorkelers. Contact: Sandra Clark, 517-335-
2712
K-12 students invited to enter Michigan Junior Duck Stamp Contest
Calling all young artists: The 6, 7-9 and 10-12. awards and scholarships for
USFWS is accepting entries for the May feature one of the participating students, teachers and
2020 Michigan Junior Duck Stamp following species: whistling schools.
Contest administered by the ducks, swans, geese, brants, Educators are encouraged to
Shiawassee National Wildlife dabbling ducks, diving ducks, incorporate the contest into their
Refuge in Saginaw. Entries must be sea ducks, mergansers, stiff tails classrooms by utilizing the Junior
postmarked by March 15. or Hawaiian ducks. Duck Stamp Program curriculum to
The USFWS has hosted the In addition to first-, second- and teach students about waterfowl
contest in Michigan since 1995 to third-place entries, judges will select biology and the importance of
boost education and awareness about a “best of show” winner that will be wetland habitats. Those wanting to
North America’s waterfowl and submitted to the Federal Duck include even more lessons and
wetland resources. Sixteen-year-old Stamp Office and entered into the activities can register for the DNR’s
Mandy He of Ann Arbor won in National Junior Duck Stamp Michigan’s Wondrous Wetlands and
2019 with her acrylic drawing of Contest. The first-place art from the Waterfowl middle school
two Michigan mallard hens. national contest is used to create a curriculum.
This year the program is National Junior Duck Stamp. The Entry information and rules can
expanding to accept all styles and Junior Duck Stamp is available for be found at FWS.gov/JuniorDuck.
types of two-dimensional visual $5 from the U.S. Postal Service and Questions? Contact Lionel
artwork. All entries: from many national wildlife refuges. Grant, Junior Duck Stamp state
Will be judged in four groups, Proceeds from stamp sales support coordinator, 989-759-1669
according to grade level: K-3, 4- conservation education and provideYou can also read
