"The Osceola State"

Florida State Chapter
"The Osceola State"

Chapter News

Sumter County Longbeards Wheelin' Sportsmen Event

Picture of the committee and volunteers that were present at the Sumter County Longbeards Wheelin' Sportsmen Spring Wild Turkey Hunt, from left to right; Gary Marraige (property owner), Tim Carpenter (guide), Kenny Morgan (Event Coordinator), Dale Wesling (State Director), Mike Guilfoil (guide), Dawn Morgan (Kenny's wife and secretary), Rob Harris (guide and property owner), John Harkey (property owner).

NWTF Sumter County Longbeards Chapter Hosts a Wheelin' Sportsmen Event on April 19th & 20th for People with Disabilities!

The Wheelin’ Sportsmen program is one of the NWTF’s outreach programs. This program is designed to provide the people, of all ages, with disabilities opportunities to get out and enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, bird watching, and much more.

This particular event gave six people and their guests the opportunity to hunt the elusive Osceola Turkey, wild hogs and to fish in a local pond. Able bodied individuals were partnered up with those in need of assistance to aide in these outdoor activities.

At least 1 in 5 Americans has some kind of disability, although many aren’t obvious, and 1 in 10 is severely disabled. Unfortunately, their opportunities to take part in outdoor activities are often limited and sometimes nonexistent. The goal of the Wheelin’ Sportsmen program is to get people involved in exciting and rewarding outdoor activities.

With the same commitment the NWTF has made in restoring wild turkeys to their historic numbers, and improving wildlife habitat the NWTF’s Wheelin’ Sportsmen outreach program is also bringing the beauty and wonder of the outdoors to people with disabilities.

Wheelin’ Sportsmen events are designed to overcome barriers that prevent or limit those with disabilities from enjoying outdoor activities. Each event promotes education, healthy living, sportsmanship, self esteem, recreation and awareness. Due to the uniqueness and design of the program, we are able to provide participants with a variety of outdoor adventures.

The National Wild Turkey Federation also offers outreach programs to include and educate women, through the Women in the Outdoors program, and children, up to age 17, through the Jakes program.

The Sumter County Longbeard Chapter would like to extent a note of gratitude to all who made this event a success.

For more information about any of these programs check out the web-site at www.nwtf.org, or for more information on the Sumter County Longbeard Chapter go to the web-site www.sumtercountylongbeards.com. If you would like more information about the local Wheelin’ Sportsmen program, contact Kenny Morgan at 352-303-0703 or email: go_n_huntn@yahoo.com

www.sumtercountylongbeards.com

NWTF CEO Search Announcement

Chief Executive Officer for National Wild Turkey Federation

THE COMPANY
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a national leader in conservation.

The NWTF is headquartered in Edgefield, S.C. With an annual budget exceeding $50 million, the NWTF has approximately 300 employees throughout the United States with almost 200 employed in Edgefield, SC. Since 1985, more than $258 million NWTF and cooperator dollars has been spent on upholding the hunting traditions and conserving wildlife habitat.

The NWTF is a grassroots, nonprofit organization with more than 500,000 members in 50 states, Canada, Mexico and 14 other foreign countries. The NWTF supports scientific wildlife management on public, private and corporate lands as well as hunting as a traditional North American sport.

THE POSITION OF CEO
The CEO is the full-time chief administrative official of the NWTF. The CEO shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors and shall report to the President of the NWTF. The CEO shall have responsibility for and control of all employees.
As a chief executive, the CEO shall initiate and participate in forming new policies as they have been approved by the NWTF membership or the Board of Directors. The CEO shall organize, direct and coordinate the programs and activities of the NWTF to assure that the objectives are attained, plans fulfilled, and member needs met. The CEO shall also have other such responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time by the Board of Directors.
Qualified candidates for the CEO should have hands on managerial and administrative executive experience in either public, private or nonprofit organizations. Additionally, qualified candidates must also support the ideals of the organization, which include conservation and the preservation of the hunting tradition.
Demonstrated ability to build relationships with governmental agencies and corporate sponsors is a must for this position. CEO candidates also need to demonstrate an ability to communicate with and inspire staff, sponsors, and the grassroots membership. Innovation and visionary processes that further the goals and mission of the NWTF are also desired.

APPLICATIONS
To be considered for the CEO of the National Wild Turkey Federation, submit your resume and salary expectation via e-mail to ceosearchcommittee@nwtf.net or via fax 803-637-0034.

http://www.nwtf.org/contact_us/jobs.html

Wild Turkey Hunting Course

ID & T Multimedia has created an online Turkey Hunting Course to teach new hunters to pursue wild turkeys safely and successfully. The course covers wild turkey biology, management, calling, tactics and safety.
http://www.wildturkeyhuntingcourse.com

Two Adults Charged, Two Juveniles Charged With Wild Turkey Shooting Spree

Two Adults Charged, Two Juveniles Charged With Wild Turkey Shooting Spree “Reminiscent” Of Market Hunting Days

In what is one of most the flagrant poaching violations in recent memory, two Middle Tennessee adults have been cited with numerous illegal hunting charges after allegedly killing at least a dozen wild turkeys, while in the company of two juvenile hunters, during a weekend hunt open only to sportsmen under 16.

"This is perhaps the most blatant violation of the turkey game laws in recent history,” noted Jeff Skelton, an assistant law enforcement supervisor for the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. “This is reminiscent of market hunting that took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s when hunters nearly drove the wild turkey into extinction.”

Charged is Billy Joe Davidson of Lewisburg and Leonard Williams of Culleoka, who apparently took advantage of Tennessee’s annual Young Sportsman hunt and carried two young hunters—one 9 and one 14—on a shooting spree down the Duck River in Maury County, March 22-23.

"We think the poachers killed at least nine turkeys just on Sunday as they motored up and down the Duck River in a 16-foot flat bottom boat, shooting some turkeys off tree limbs that had roosted for the night and using a spotlight to locate others,” explained Skelton. “Adults are required to hunt with youngsters during this weekend, but not allowed to do any shooting. Even if they were allowed to shoot, the bag limit is one bird for the entire weekend.”

All four of the hunters have been charged with violations.

"The example set by the two adults is a shame by any standards, but we also believe the young hunters have responsibilities for their actions.” said Skelton. “We issued a search warrant for Davidson’s Lewisburg home after receiving a report from a concerned citizen. The search turned up 12 fresh turkey beards and 13 turkey breasts and other turkey meat.”

Charges are numerous, with Davidson being cited with hunting from a watercraft under power, spotlighting game, 10 counts of hunting, killing, possessing, and transporting turkeys in closed season; hunting after legal shooting hours, and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of minors.

Williams will be charged with hunting from a watercraft under power, spotlighting game, nine counts of hunting, killing, possessing and transporting turkeys in close seasons. He will also be charged with hunting after legal shooting hours, and contributing to the delinquency of minors.

The 14 year old is charged with hunting from a watercraft under power, spotlighting game, six counts of exceeding his bag limit, and one count of violating the state’s tagging law; shooting after legal shooting hours, and hunting without a wildlife management area permit.

The 9 year old is charged with hunting from a watercraft under power, spotlighting game, violation of the state’s tagging law, hunting without a wildlife management area permit, shooting after legal shooting hours, and two counts of exceeding the daily bag limit.

"We appreciate the tip that led to these arrests,” said Skelton. “The TWRA and the National Wild Turkey Federation have offered rewards to citizens that report and convict turkey poachers.”

In addition to the charges, wildlife officers seized three shotguns, a spotlight, and the flat bottom boat and a 25 horsepower motor. They also seized all of the turkey meat and various turkey parts.

The two adults are scheduled to appear in County General Sessions Court in Mt. Pleasant May 14th. The juveniles are scheduled to appear May 28th in Juvenile Court in Columbia.

Helping make the arrests were Skelton, Maury County Wildlife Officers Pam McDonald and Mark Ventura, Marshall County Wildlife Officer Doug Lowery, Giles County Wildlife Officer David Robertson, and Williamson County Wildlife Officer Joe Fortner

Read the entire story at the link below...
http://www.state.tn.us/twra/news/turkeybust.html

2008 Florida Chapter Scholarship Recipient is Patrick Beaty Smith

This year's Florida State Chapter Scholarship Winner is Patrick Beaty Smith, the son of Clyde and Kathy Smith of O'Brien. Patrick is currently ranked number #1 in his graduating class, and a school leader at Branford High School, Branford, Florida. He has been accepted into the Agricultural Engineering Program at the University of Florida. Patrick has previously done research into alternative fuel sources including bio-fuels and renewable energy sources, and is extremely interested in the environment. He has grown up as a hunter and a conservationist and participated in the Suwannee River Regional Envirothon and numerous community service projects to benefit and improve the environment.
Patrick has grown up in a hunting atmosphere where he has helped manage the family's 50 acre farm and an additional 420 acre lease for wildlife including the wild turkey. His interest in soil and water quality has enabled him to experiment with agronomic crops and wildlife plantings through hands-on experiences. He has been successful in balancing his academic studies with sports, school, community, and outdoor activities. Pactrick Smith's pursuit of a major in agricultural engineering will provide him with the opportunity to continue to search for ways to improve the environment and wildlife habitat through soil and water quality management.

NWTF’s Wekiva Springs Strutters Chapter Earns National Award

The Wekiva Springs Strutters Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation received four L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter Awards during the NWTF’s annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Feb. 21 to Feb. 24, 2008.

The Wekiva Springs Strutters Chapter of Apopka, Fla., was recognized by the NWTF as the best local chapter and for having the greatest net income with more than $114,000 net income, the greatest overall membership achievement and the second-highest total sponsor membership achievement with 218 sponsor members. The Wekiva Springs Strutters Chapter has been a leader in the NWTF’s chapter system, and a credit to the NWTF.

“Our chapters and volunteers are our greatest asset, and the lifeblood of the NWTF,” said Rob Keck, NWTF CEO. “Their support makes the NWTF’s work possible. We honor our chapters for their efforts through the L.A. Dixon awards because we know who makes the NWTF so great.”

The L.A. Dixon Memorial awards are given in honor of a man who gave unselfishly during the NWTF’s early years. Dixon founded the North Carolina State NWTF chapter, served at the national, state and local levels and traveled thousands of miles at his own expense carrying the NWTF’s message to all who would listen. The NWTF honors Dixon’s achievements through the L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter and Banquet awards.

The L.A. Dixon awards are given to local, state and provincial chapters that excel at conservation fund raising, education and outreach events. Chapter awards honor year-round performance, while banquet awards honor one-time banquet performance.

“The Wakiva Springs Strutters Chapter has been named the NWTF’s best local chapter for three years in a row, and this win is just the momentum we need,” said Lou Haubner, president and banquet chairman for the chapter. “Our volunteers’ excellent teamwork has brought us to this point, and we will continue working hard and setting our goals high so we can remain on top.”

Last year, 2,300 NWTF chapters hosted Hunting Heritage Super Fund banquets to raise funds for the NWTF’s conservation and outreach initiatives.

For more information about the NWTF’s L.A. Dixon awards or other convention highlights, call (800) THE-NWTF or click on the link below...

www.nwtf.org

NWTF’s Suwannee River Strutters Chapter Earns National Award

The Suwannee River Strutters Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation received two L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter Awards during the NWTF’s annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Feb. 22, 2008.

The Suwannee River Strutters Chapter of Live Oak, Fla., was recognized by the NWTF for having the highest total membership and highest net income at their outstanding first banquet. The Suwannee River Strutters Chapter has been a leader in the NWTF’s chapter system, and a credit to the NWTF.

“Our chapters and volunteers are our greatest asset, and the lifeblood of the NWTF,” said Rob Keck, NWTF CEO. “Their support makes the NWTF’s work possible. We honor our chapters for their efforts through the L.A. Dixon awards because we know who makes the NWTF so great.”

The L.A. Dixon Memorial awards are given in honor of a man who gave unselfishly during the NWTF’s early years. Dixon founded the North Carolina State NWTF chapter, served at the national, state and local levels and traveled thousands of miles at his own expense carrying the NWTF’s message to all who would listen. The NWTF honors Dixon’s achievements through the L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter and Banquet awards.

The L.A. Dixon awards are given to local, state and provincial chapters that excel at conservation fund raising, education and outreach events. Chapter awards honor year-round performance, while banquet awards honor one-time banquet performance.

“I’m honored to accept this award on behalf of the chapter, because they earned it,” said Suwannee River Strutters Chapter President, John Baucom. “We’ve all worked extremely hard, and to see our work pay off in such a big way is just incredible.”

www.nwtf.org

NWTF’s Florida State Chapter Earns National Award

The Florida State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation received an L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter Award during the NWTF’s annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Feb. 23, 2008.

The Florida State Chapter was recognized by the NWTF as the second runner-up in the chapter with more than 10,000 members category. The Florida State Chapter has been a leader in the NWTF’s chapter system, and a credit to the NWTF.

“Our chapters and volunteers are our greatest asset, and the lifeblood of the NWTF,” said Rob Keck, NWTF CEO. “Their support makes the NWTF’s work possible. We honor our chapters for their efforts through the L.A. Dixon awards because we know who makes the NWTF so great.”

The L.A. Dixon Memorial awards are given in honor of a man who gave unselfishly during the NWTF’s early years. Dixon founded the North Carolina State NWTF chapter, served at the national, state and local levels and traveled thousands of miles at his own expense carrying the NWTF’s message to all who would listen. The NWTF honors Dixon’s achievements through the L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter and Banquet awards.

The L.A. Dixon awards are given to local, state and provincial chapters that excel at conservation fund raising, education and outreach events. Chapter awards honor year-round performance, while banquet awards honor one-time banquet performance.

Last year, 2,300 NWTF chapters hosted Hunting Heritage Super Fund banquets to raise funds for the NWTF’s conservation and outreach initiatives.

For more information about the NWTF’s L.A. Dixon awards or other convention highlights, call (800) THE-NWTF, or go online at
www.nwtf.org

The Sumter County Longbeards Chapter Earns National Award

The Sumter County Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation received two L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter Awards during the NWTF’s annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Feb. 21 to Feb. 24, 2008.

The Sumter County Longbeards Chapter of Florida was recognized by the NWTF for sponsorship achievement for having 122 sponsor members and as the second runner-up in the best local chapter category. The Sumter County Longbeards Chapter has been a leader in the NWTF’s chapter system, and a credit to the NWTF.

“Our chapters and volunteers are our greatest asset, and the lifeblood of the NWTF,” said Rob Keck, NWTF CEO. “Their support makes the NWTF’s work possible. We honor our chapters for their efforts through the L.A. Dixon awards because we know who makes the NWTF so great.”

The L.A. Dixon Memorial awards are given in honor of a man who gave unselfishly during the NWTF’s early years. Dixon founded the North Carolina State NWTF chapter, served at the national, state and local levels and traveled thousands of miles at his own expense carrying the NWTF’s message to all who would listen. The NWTF honors Dixon’s achievements through the L.A. Dixon Memorial Chapter and Banquet awards.

The L.A. Dixon awards are given to local, state and provincial chapters that excel at conservation fund raising, education and outreach events. Chapter awards honor year-round performance, while banquet awards honor one-time banquet performance.

Last year, 2,300 NWTF chapters hosted Hunting Heritage Super Fund banquets to raise funds for the NWTF’s conservation and outreach initiatives.

For more information about the NWTF’s L.A. Dixon awards or other convention highlights, call (800) THE-NWTF, or go online at www.nwtf.org <http://www.nwtf.org> .

Florida Seed Subsidy Forms available online

Attached is a copy of the Florida Members Letter and Seed Subsidy order form mailed to Florida members. After printing it, you can mail the completed form to Cissy Penner at PO Box 530 Edgefield, SC 29824. You can also fax it to 803-637-0034.

Please print and read the letter before mailing to NWTF!
Download PDF Document

Florida Resident Awarded High Honor

Larry Perrin accepting his prestigious Henry S. Mosby Award!

ATLANTA — Larry Perrin of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was honored with the prestigious Henry S. Mosby Award at the National Wild Turkey Federation's (NWTF) annual Convention and Sport Show in Atlanta, Ga., held Feb. 21 to Feb. 24.

Perrin, a resident of Crawfordsville, has spent more than 30 years working tirelessly on the research and management of the wild turkey for the FWC. His efforts have been instrumental in the continued restoration of the Osceola subspecies wild turkey in the Everglades National Park, and the restoration of the eastern subspecies of the wild turkey in Holmes County.

"Larry has shown unequaled dedication to conservation and wild turkeys throughout his career," said Dr. James Earl Kennamer, NWTF senior vice president for conservation programs. "He is a major reason why residents in Holmes County, visitors in the Everglades National Park and turkey enthusiasts in the State of Florida are able to enjoy the sights and sounds of wild turkeys today."

In 2006, Perrin was proud to announce the reopening of Holmes County for turkey hunting for the first time since 1998. The FWC closed wild turkey hunting in Holmes County due to a perilous drop in turkey numbers. Under Perrin's guidance, and with the support from the citizens of Holmes County and surrounding counties, the FWC and local chapter members of the NWTF, they mapped out a restoration project to improve turkey habitat within the county and restock the turkey population. The project released more than 120 wild turkeys at eight locations throughout the county, and the agency imposed a ban on turkey hunting until its biologists determined the population could sustain hunting.

Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to protect the rich resources of South Florida's subtropical wilderness wetlands, particularly the diverse and abundant bird populations. Birds have always been one of the park's principal attractions. Unfortunately, the Osceola subspecies of the wild turkey was noticeably absent. The wild turkey population in the park dropped after the 1950s due in part to illegal hunting and habitat loss. An attempt was made to reintroduce wild turkeys to the Long Pine Key area of the park in 1971 and possibly in the early 1960s, as well. These attempts failed.

In 2000, a team of wildlife biologists, including Perrin and the late Dr. George Dalrymple, also from the FWC, the Homestead Chapter of the NWTF, the U.S. Park Service and private landowners, such as the Lykes Brothers Ranch, spearheaded the effort to restore the wild turkey population at Everglades National Park. The team used bait and rocket nets to catch 29 Osceola turkeys at private ranches for release in the Long Pine Key section of the park.

In 2006 the same group of cooperators released 19 turkeys into Everglades National Park in a continued effort to restore the struggling population. While many think of wetlands when it comes to the restoration of Everglades National Park, the upland areas are also critical to the health of the Everglades ecosystem. The restoration of the Osceola subspecies of the wild turkey will not only herald the return of this grand bird to an important part of Florida, but will also show how leaders, like Perrin, can bring together both public and private resources in accomplishing great things for the future of the wild turkey and the restoration of Everglades National Park.

Since 1985, the NWTF's volunteers in cooperation with the FWC have spent nearly $2 million on habitat enhancement, wild turkey research, law enforcement and outreach programs. NWTF's efforts include more than $771,609 on habitat improvement projects for maintenance and development of brood habitat, wildlife openings, prescribed fire, tree planting, riparian restoration, water development projects, control of invasive plant species and support for seed subsidy and conservation seed programs — improving habitat for more than 504,298 acres within the state.

The Mosby Award is named for Dr. Henry Mosby, whose research with wild turkeys in the early 1900s set the standard for their management. He also helped found The Wildlife Society and was the winner of its highest honor - the Aldo Leopold Medal.

Print the entire story!
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The Toyota Tundra Florida NWTF Turkey Calling Championships RESULTS hosted by Bass Pro

Florida Senior Open Winners 1st place – Scott Ellis2nd place – Troy Floyd3rd place – Tim Sandford

The Toyota Tundra Florida NWTF Turkey Calling Championships hosted by Bass Pro Shops Winners from August 25th, 2007!

Congratulations to all our contestants and our winners!

Southern Open

1st place – Sadler McGraw
2nd place – Joe Drake
3rd place – Scott Ellis

Florida Senior Open

1st place – Scott Ellis
2nd place – Troy Floyd
3rd place – Tim Sandford

Juniors

1st place – Chris Drake
2nd place – Terri Benoit
3rd place – Matthew Ford

Friction Open

1st place – Sadler McGraw
2nd place – Mike Pentecost
3rd place – David Halloran

Owl Hooting

1st place – Sadler McGraw
2nd place – Joe Drake
3rd place – Scott Ellis

Gobbling

1st place – Scott Ellis
2nd place – David Kelly
3rd place – Troy Floyd

For questions please contact:

Scott A. Ford turf64@comcast.net
Tom Andrews jandrewsacres@aol.com

Trip of a Lifetime Raffle will be drawn on January 19th, 2008

2006 Trip of a Lifetime Raffle Winners David & Debbie Stowell

Sponsored by the Florida State Chapter

"ONLY 400 TICKETS WILL BE SOLD"

We have added a NEW INCENTIVE for 2007 to buy a raffle ticket with 2nd & 3rd place winners...

$100 dollars each...

1st Place ONE Winner and companion VALUED at $10,000 dollars "Trip of a Lifetime". Trip includes: Lodging, meals, guide service & airfare for two people...

2nd Place TWO Winners Two Firearms, One Shotgun and One Rifle, Value over $2000 dollars.

3rd Place TWO Winners will receive one each, $250 dollar gift card from Bass Pro Shops.

Contact John Whiddon to purchase your raffle ticket or for more information 850-894-1213 or email whiddonandassociates@yahoo.com

Please open the PDF File below for complete RULES and Trip Descriptions and more information on Trip of a Lifetime...

Download PDF Document

NWTF Florida Volunteer Appreciation Day

To all our NWTF Florida Volunteers, involved with the NWTF Florida Local Chapter Hunting Heritage Banquets, Chapter Presidents, Banquet Chairman, Jakes, WITO & Wheelin' Sportsmen Event Coordinators and chapter committee's members.

You are invited to attend our Volunteer Appreciation Day!!!

January 19th, 2008
Where: Zellwood Station Country Club
2728 Cayman Circle
Zellwood 32798
Phone:407-889-5131

PLEASE PLEASE CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY FOR YOUR RESERVATIONS AS WE NEED A HEAD COUNT FOR LUNCH AND DINNER. THANKS!!!!

Schedule of Events
State Board meeting-9:30 A.M.
Complimentary Luncheon (everyone welcome) 11:30 P.M.
Q. & A. Session: 1:00 to 3:00 P.M.
Banquet Doors Open: 5:00 P.M. (Games & Raffles)
Dinner: 7:00 P.M.
Awards: 8:00 P.M.
Drawing for HUNT OF A LIFETIME

FOR RESERVATIONS
Mention NWTF
email: luis.ignacio@ihg.com or
Call: 407-767-5757

Candlewood Suites
644 Raymond Ave.
Altamonte Springs-32701

If you have sold your four HUNT OF A LIFETIME tickets you will be reimbursed for your room adn receive one ticket for the banquet. Additional tickets may be purchased for $35. Adult and Jakes $20. Some of you have sold 8 to 20 or more tickets and you may receive additional rooms and tickets as well.

Any Questions call Lou or Diann at 407-886-8010.

FWCC Florida Quota Hunt Workgroup PUBLIC INPUT WORKSHOPS

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Florida Quota Hunt Workgroup
PUBLIC INPUT WORKSHOPS

Please download PDF file for more info, your input is critical to the quota hunt changes...

October 29, 2007
Gander Mountain Store; 550 Belz Outlet Blvd.; St Augustine, Florida 32084; 904.829.1946

November 5, 2007
IGFA Hall of Fame; 300 Gulf Stream Way; Dania Beach, Florida 33004; 954.927.2628

November 15, 2007
Bass Pro Shops; 5156 International Drive; Orlando, Florida 32819; 407.563.5200

November 6, 2007
Thomas Law Enforcement Academy; 75 College Dr.; Havana, Florida 32333; 850.201.7000

Meeting Objectives
 To Review Agenda, Process, and Participation Ground-Rules
 To Hear an Overview of the Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Scope and Charge
 To Hear an Overview of the Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Draft Recommendations
 To Provide Comments on the Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Draft Recommendations
 To Review Next Steps and Project Delivery Schedule

All Agenda Times—Including Public Comment and Adjournment—Are Subject to Change
Meeting Agenda

6:30 Welcome and Opening
6:35 Agenda Review
6:40 Workshop Process and Participation Ground-Rules
6:50 Overview of Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Scope and Charge
6:55 Review of Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Draft Recommendations
7:15 Public Comments on Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Draft Recommendations
8:20 Overview of Quota Hunt Workgroup’s Delivery and Meeting Schedule
8:25 Next Steps
8:30 Adjourn

FWC QUOTA HUNT WORKGROUP DRAFT RECOMMENATIONS PUBLIC WORKSHOP REVIEW AND COMMENT PROCESS

 Facilitators will serve as moderators.
 One person speaks at a time.
 Raise your hand to be recognized by the facilitators.
 Limit your comment(s) and be concise.
 Do not read lengthy prepared statements.
 Summarize and submit complete comment(s) text for the Workshop report, and to ensure Workgroup can accurately evaluate your comment(s).
 Offer new points or state agreement with previous speakers; Please do not repeat what has been stated.
 The Workgroup wants to hear all view points, and not repeats of the same views.
 Facilitators will assist with Workshop process and ground-rules.

 Workgroup’s Recommendations will be reviewed by the facilitators.
 Questions and Clarifications on the recommendations will be taken first.
 Comments will be solicited on recommendations in turn.

Contact Information: Jeff Blair; 850.644.6320; jblair@fsu.edu ; http://consensus.fsu.edu/
Bob Jones: rmjones@fsu.edu

http://consensus.fsu.edu/FWC/quotahunt.html
Download PDF Document

The FLORIDA Youth Hunter Education Challenge an opportunity for you

Whether you are a youth under the age of 18, an adult with a desire to contribute time to your community, or a member of an organization or business looking for a youth-oriented project, if you have an interest in hunting and the outdoors, Florida’s Youth Hunter Education Challenge is an opportunity you don't want to miss!
http://myfwc.com/huntered/YHEC/index.htm

NWTF Convention & Sports Show in Atlanta-"Friends from Florida" Reserved-seating invitation

To all our Friends from Florida:

Your invited…to sit with the Florida State Chapter and our great volunteers across Florida at the NWTF Convention & Sports Show!!!

I have reserved 6 tables for our NWTF “Friends from Florida” at the NWTF Convention & Sports Show …

February 20-24, 2008
Georgia World Congress Center • Atlanta, Georgia

Mark your calendars for the largest wild turkey convention in the world and make plans to attend Turkey Camp 2008 with the “Friends From Florida” reserved seating.

“Friends from Florida” currently has 6 tables-10 seats per table reserved…

• 545 Booths of the latest turkey gear
• 8 Calling Contests
• 4 Exciting Auctions
• Seminars by the legends
• Custom Call Contests
• White-tailed Deer/Wild Turkey Taxidermy Contests
• Top-notch Entertainment
• Salute to our Veterans
• Autograph Sessions with the Stars
• Great Speakers
• Chapter Awards
• Activities for the Youth

Visit www.nwtf.org or click on the following link and it will take you directly to the NWTF Convention & Sports Show…download and print the Convention Registration below.

Remember, if you want to sit with the “Friends from Florida” reserved seating group you must send your completed registration form to me, payment included, either credit card or check, your information will be forwarded to Rachelle Lee at the NWTF headquarters.

DEADLINE TO GET RESERVED SEATING WITH “FRIENDS from FLORIDA” will be November 1st, 2007 at 12:00 noon.

FAX your completed registration form to 904-282-3263, I will send an email or call you to confirm I have received your registration.

Do not send your registration to NWTF if you want reserved seating with “Friends from Florida”…I have been doing this for the last 5-years, all payment information is strictly confidential!

I DO NOT MAKE HOTEL Reservations!!!
I look forward to your reply, any questions give me a call…

Seating is limited with the "Friends from Florida" group so reply as soon as possible!

We had over 50 people attend last year in Nashville!

Steven Dieck
NWTF, Volunteer
Florida Chapter Secretary
4290 Phillip Smith Road
Middleburg, Florida 32068
904-282-0972 home
904-716-6723 cell
904-282-3263 fax
nwtfgobble@bellsouth.net
www.floridanwtf.org

http://www.nwtf.org/special_events/convention.html
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Operation Oak 2007-08: NWTF Private Lands Program

The NWTF’s Operation Oak program is dedicated to restoring and creating oak habitat throughout the southeast. Last year alone, this program provided 4,000 water oaks, 4,000 live oaks, 3,800 white oak, and 1,000 persimmon for planting on private lands throughout the State. The NWTF has once again shown its commitment to this program in Florida and will have 4,000 live oaks and 3,500 white oaks, 1,500 swamp chestnut oak, and 1,000 persimmon available to private landowners for 2007-08. All trees will be shipped to a pre-determined, centralized location within the panhandle and peninsular, FL for pick up. A minimum request of 100 trees will be required, in addition to being a member of the NWTF. The NWTF will send a letter to all interested landowners with an application form attached. If you are interested in participating in this program for 2007-08, please contact Brian M. Zielinski, NWTF Regional Biologist, @ 386-804-6691 or via email: bzielinskinwtf@hotmail.com to be placed on the mailing list. I hope you will be able to participate in our tree-planting program this year and provide long-term habitat for wild turkeys and other wildlife. If you are interested in receiving FREE seedlings you must complete the application form below and mail, e-mail or fax it back to the attention of: Kay Morris, Operation Oak, P.O. Box 530, Edgefield, SC 29824, kmorris@nwtf.net, fax (803) 637-9180. APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED IN EDGEFIELD ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2008. If you have any questions about the program, please call Kay Morris at 803-637-3106.
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Operation Oak 2007-08: NWTF Chapter Program

In addition to our Private Lands Oak Program, the NWTF will also continue its Operation Oak program to provide oak trees to local NWTF chapters. Last year, 220 NWTF Chapters planted a total of 9,000 oak seedlings through the program. This year, each participating NWTF Chapter will receive a packet of 50 white oak seedlings and an Operation Oak sign. If your Chapter would like to be considered for additional seedlings, please indicate this when you return the completed application. Seedlings will be shipped directly to the Chapter address provided on the application. Each local chapter president will receive a letter asking them to complete an application. These letters will arrive sometime during September / October, requesting Chapter participation. If you would like to take advantage of this program please work together with your local Chapter president to ensure the application is completed and returned by the deadline. If you are interested in receiving FREE seedlings you must complete the application form below and mail, e-mail or fax it back to the attention of: Kay Morris, Operation Oak, P.O. Box 530, Edgefield, SC 29824, kmorris@nwtf.net, fax (803) 637-9180. APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED IN EDGEFIELD ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 1, 2007 FOR CONSIDERATION. If you have any questions about the program, please call Kay Morris at 803-637-3106.

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Scholarship Application deadlines have changed!!!

All students receiving local scholarships for will have the opportunity to compete for a state/provincial chapter funded $2,000 state/provincial scholarship. State/provincial chapter winners will compete for a $10,000 national scholarship. Eligibility information for recipients and deadlines are available via the link below...

LOCAL CHAPTER PRESIDENTS: Please make sure all scholarship applicants of a local chapter submit a completed scholarship application. Checks will not be mailed to local chapter presidents unless the Florida State Chapter receives a scholarship application for that student. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!

The NWTF JAKES Conservation Scholarship deadlines are as follows.

1) High School students will submit applicant names and qualifications with required information to local chapters by January 1st.

2) Local Chapter Officers will review student qualifications and select local chapter winners by January 15th and notify winners.

3) Local Chapters will forward all local winners to State Chapter presidents with complete applications by February 1st.

4) State Chapters will review all candidates and select a state winner by March 15th.

5) State Chapter presidents will forward state winners to the NWTF National Headquarters by April 1st.

6) The NWTF selection committee will select the national winner by April 15th.

7) The National winner will be asked to attend the National Convention the following year to be recognized at the Awards Banquet.

Visit the following link to download the NWTF XTREME Jakes Scholarship Application or email Rudy Reimsnyder at rudyreim@juno.com if you have specific questions on scholarships

These scholarships are set up to ensure the NWTF has the dedicated conservationists needed for the future and is a part of the NWTF's Five-Star program. Applicants for the scholarship are judged on their scholastic achievements, leadership abilities, community involvement and commitment to conservation.

"Supporting our children's education through this scholarship program is just one way the NWTF can ensure we have the dedicated conservationists needed for the future," said the NWTF's CEO Rob Keck.

http://www.nwtf.org/jakes/xtreme/xtreme.html

NWTF Hunting Heritage Banquets and Women In The Outdoor Events are needed in the following areas...

To the greatest volunteers in Florida, Chapter Presidents, Family & Friends of the National Wild Turkey Federation across Florida.

The NWTF Florida Board of Directors are asking for your help in starting local chapters in communities across Florida? If you know of an area that can support a local NWTF Hunting Heritage Banquet and our NWTF outreach programs, please contact Gary Ruhl NWTF Senior Regional Director glr@earthlink.net and he will pass the information on to the appropriate regional director in Florida for the area of concern.

Over $1.85 million dollars has been spent on "Conservation of the Wild Turkey and the Preservation of our Hunting Tradition" in Florida. With in-kind dollars, the figure is much-much higher…in dollars raised and matched across Florida for wildlife on public lands in Florida.

Florida is ranked 5th in the nation, we want to become the #1 State Chapter in the nation!

Why don’t you “Answer the Call of the Wild Turkey” and make a difference in your community.

Florida NWTF needs assistance in the following areas…if you have a lead, please send it to us and we will forward it to the appropriate rd. If you know of someone that would like to become part of the greatest conservation organization, let us know.

Florida has 4 regional directors spread across the state...

As the NWTF growth continues across Florida our existing committee’s can always use new volunteers with new talents. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteers is welcome to help at any of our Hunting Heritage Banquets across the state, if you can donate 1 hour or 40 hours, you can make a difference...

Austie Heacock…
The only County in my Region that doesn't host a banquet is Monroe County (The Keys).
Need some help in Belle Glade, Marathon, Indiantown and Pine Island.

Allen McClendon…
I need volunteers to help with new committees in Ft. Walton, Panama City, Milton and Washington County.

I have started new chapters in Pensacola, Milton, Ft. Walton and will host a banquet in Panama City with a new group of NWTF volunteers.

Gary Ruhl…
Gadsdon County
Jefferson County (Monticello)
Levi County
Gilchrist County
Manatee/Sarasota County
Crystal River/Homosassa

Zach Morgan…
Baker County
Nassau County
Gainesville/Alachua County

Women in the Outdoors...areas needing events...

If you know of an area that can support a Women in the Outdoors Event in the areas listed below or in your community please contact Patty Foster at outdoorwoman@windstream.net or visit the Women In The Outdoors website at www.womenintheoutdoors.org for more information on this great program

The Women in the Outdoors program could definitely use some new events in the South Florida area. The area I am referring to is south of Tampa, Winter Haven and Melbourne.

Thanks again for all you do for the NWTF as volunteers, you are the NWTF!

Gary Ruhl glrnwtf@earthlink.net or
Patty Foster outdoorwoman@windstream.net

Florida's National Archery in the Schools Summer Newsletter

YOU can participate in the NASP Program, "one sport that allows everyone to participate is the National Archery in the Schools Program"! Contact your Principal or Physical Education instructor and ask them to start a NASP Program in your school!!!

Click on the newsletter link just below the header. It contains information about the 2008 Virtual Florida State NASP Tournament.

for more info on the NASP Program contact:

Steven R. Robbins
Regional Hunter Safety Coordinator
FL Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
North Central Region
3377 East U. S. Highway 90 Lake City, FL 32055
steven.robbins@MyFWC.com
visit us on the web at MyFWC.com/HunterSafety

http://myfwc.com/huntered/nasp/

Nominations for Florida Board of Director Officers

Posted July 10th, 2007...

To all Florida NWTF members, every two-years, nominations for officers will be made from the current Florida Board of Directors. Per the by-laws, Florida NWTF membership should be notified 6-weeks prior to the next Florida Chapter Board meeting to allow your vote to be considered for nomination of officers.

Please contact Steven Dieck or mail your nomination to the following address 4290 Phillip Smith Road, Middleburg Florida 32068 or email: nwtfgobble@bellsouth.net with your nomination for officer or call 904-282-0972 if you have any questions on the nominating process for officers of the Florida Chapter.

Nominations for officer's cannot be accepted from the floor at the next Florida State Chapter Baord meeting!

Please visit "Chapter Contacts" tab for the current list of your NWTF Florida Board members and officers.

The Florida Chapter will meet on August 25th, 2007 in Orlando at Bass Pro Shops on International Drive in the evening, in conjuction with the Florida Turkey Calling Contest , time of meeting to be announced at a later date.

4th ANNUAL Florida Chapter Trip of a Lifetime Raffle

2006 Trip of a Lifetime Raffle Winners David & Debbie Stowell

The Toyota Tundra Florida NWTF Turkey Calling Championships hosted by Bass Pro

The Toyota Tundra Florida NWTF Turkey Calling Championships hosted by Bass Pro Shops to be held at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World on International Drive in Orlando on the 25th of August, 2007.

Registration will be held from 10am to 11:30am with the contest starting at 1:00pm. Contest Scheduling will be posted at 12:00pm. There will be six (6) calling divisions in this years contest.

This will be a sanctioned contest and sanctioned rules will be enforced. You MUST be a current member of the NWTF and provide proof of membership.

Entry fees and prizes are listed below:

Southern Open - entry $50, 1st Place $1,000, 2nd Place $500, 3rd Place $250.

Florida Senior - entry $35, 1st Place $500, 2nd Place $250, 3rd Place $125.

Friction Open - entry $35, 1st Place $500, 2nd Place $250, 3rd Place $125.

Juniors - entry $10, Trophy for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place & Merchandise.

Owl Hooting - entry $35, 1st Place $500, 2nd Place $250, 3rd Place $125.

Gobbling - entry $35, 1st Place $500, 2nd Place $250, 3rd Place $125.

For questions please contact:

Scott A. Ford turf64@comcast.net
Tom Andrews jandrewsacres@aol.com

2008 Chevy Colorado Truck Raffle

Sumter County Longbeards
2nd Annual N.W.T.F. Banquet
Fund Raisers

2008 Chevy Colorado
Truck Raffle
Extended Cab
Vortec 3.7 L I-5 Engine
Automatic Transmission - 4 X 4
Tax, Tag, & Title - All Inclusive

Reverse Finalist
Truck Raffle to be held
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Savannah Center in The Villages

$100.00 Donation
Only 500 Tickets will be sold!

Do not need to be present to win!

Note: Valid Drivers License and Proof on Insurance Required by Winner

For tickets or information on the raffle or banquet please contact:
Toni Coleman 352-636-6682

2007 West Volusia Limbhangers & Florida Chapter Scholarship recipient Kyle Marsh

Kyle Marsh is presented his $2500 dollar check from Brian Zielinski Chapter President at the "Hunting Heritage Banquet & Auction"

The 2007 NWTF West Volusia Limbhangers Chapter is proud to announce the recipient of there $500 dollar scholarship Kyle Marsh.

Kyle Marsh was also chosen as the Florida Chapter 2007 $2000 dollar scholarship recipient from a great group of candidates.

Kyle is now eligible for the NWTF National Scholarship worth $10,000 dollars.

Congratulations to Kyle for his outstanding scholastic achievements in 2007.

ATTENTION !!!STRICTER PENALTIES for Violators of Fishing and Hunting Laws

Effective July 1, 2006, a new law will aggressively protect Florida’s natural resources by establishing enhanced penalties for those who violate fish and wildlife recreational laws and by adopting the Wildlife Violator Compact, which is now recognized in 24 states.

ENHANCED PENALTIES
The new law, s. 372.83, F.S., increases the consequences for those who repeatedly violate Florida’s recreational fishing and hunting laws, including a stricter penalty for hunting or fishing with a suspended or revoked license:

• Level 1 - Non-criminal Violations –

o First conviction – a $50 fine, plus court costs; in the case of a “no license” violation, the individual also will have to pay for the cost of the license

o Second and subsequent offense within 36 months of the first - the fine is doubled to $100.

• Level 2 – Criminal Violation - 2nd Degree Misdemeanor –

o First conviction – up to $500 fine and/or up to 60 days in jail.

o Second conviction within 3 years of the first – increased to a 1st degree misdemeanor, including a fine of $250 to $1,000 and/or up to 1 year in jail.

o Third conviction within 5 years of the first - increased to a 1st degree misdemeanor, including a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 1 year in jail, and all hunting and fishing recreational license privileges shall be suspended for one year.

o Fourth conviction within 10 years of the first – increased to a 1st degree misdemeanor, including a fine of $750 to $1,000, up to 1 year in jail, and all hunting and fishing recreational licenses privileges shall be suspended for 3 years.

• Level 3 – Criminal Violation - 1st Degree Misdemeanor –

o First conviction – up to $1000 fine and/or up to 1 year in jail

o Second and subsequent convictions within 10 years of the first - a fine of $750 to $1,000, up to 1 year in jail, and all hunting and fishing recreational licenses privileges shall be suspended for 3 years.

• Level 4 – Criminal Violation - 3rd Degree Felony – up to $5000 fine and/or up to 5 years in jail

• Hunting or fishing with a suspended or revoked license - a $1,000 fine and suspension of all hunting and fishing recreational licenses for an additional 5 years.

Note: Violations prior to July 1, 2006, may trigger assessment of stricter penalties by the court. A conviction for purposes of this new law is any disposition other than dismissal or acquittal.

WILDLIFE VIOLATOR COMPACT
Florida is now a member of the “Wildlife Violator Compact”, as per s.372.831, F.S. - an interstate agreement to protect fish and wildlife through the following provisions:

• Persons who have had their hunting, fishing, or trapping privileges revoked or suspended in their home states will be prohibited from engaging in those activities in Florida.

• Florida residents who have had their hunting, fishing or trapping privileges revoked or suspended in Florida will be prohibited from engaging in those activities in other member states.

• A Florida resident who commits a wildlife or fisheries violation in another member state is treated in the same manner as a resident of that state.

• The Wildlife Violator Compact member states include: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Washington, New York, Wyoming, and North Dakota.

For additional information please visit myfwc.com

http://www.myfwc.com

Superfund Green Forms available online...Deadline July 27th, 2007

Elizabeth Dieck receives instruction in sporting clays.

To our volunteers, Thanks again for all you do for the NWTF and Florida!

Chapter Presidents, committee members, volunteers you are the NWTF:

WANT to host an Xtreme JAKES, Women in the Outdoors or Wheelin' Sportsmen Event with your local chapter, then please complete a Superfund Green form...

MAIL the Superfund Green Form to William Sullivan MUST be received before July 27th, 2007...

Any questions on completing the form please contact William Sullivan or any of your Florida Board of Directors in your area, if you need assistance in completing the Superfund Green Form.

(Contact information can be found under the "Chapter Contacts" tab on this website)

Superfund Green Forms are available in the Download PDF Documant link below...
Download PDF Document

WITO Event has Memorable Day in Groveland!

Groveland, Florida

March 10, 2007 over 140 women showed up to enjoy the beautiful day at Circle-C-Hunt
Club for the Chain-O-Lakes Gobblers, the Leesburg, Florida Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation’s 6th Annual Women in the Outdoors Event.

Such classes as Intro to Motorcycle, ATV, Bass Fishing, Intro to Handgun, Practical Pistol Coarse, Archery, Competitive Archery, Turkey Hunting, Deer Hunting, Camping, Jewelry Making, Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Photography, Leatherwork and Shotgunning were offered.

Every year we grow and this year was the largest group ever. It is wonderful to see women learning new things and having great fun with their friends. I am amazed at how many friendships develop at these events.

As the recipient of the 2006 Annie Oakley award I would like to take this opportunity to
Thank my committee (which are all my wonderful friends) and chapter for all the hard work they do to make this event the best in the State of Florida every year. I am also so grateful for all the instructors that give tirelessly of their time and expertise every year.

I hope to see each and everyone of you ladies again next year and always remember to invite your friends to come with you. They will be glad you did.

Sincerely,
Jackie Tuten
Florida State Board of Directors

--Where to spring turkey hunt without special-opportunity or quota permits--

2007 Florida Spring Turkey Season

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) offers 34 public hunting areas statewide, where hunters need only to “walk on” to hunt spring turkeys.
Hunters need a hunting license ($12.50 for residents, $46.50 for nonresident 10-day license), management area permit ($26.50) and turkey permit ($5 for residents, $100 for nonresidents) to spring turkey hunt on the following areas.
These licenses and permits can be purchased while in Florida at county tax collectors’ offices and at most retail outlets that sell hunting/fishing supplies. They also can be bought with a credit card by calling 1-888-486-8356 or going online at www.MyFWC.com/license.
Shooting hours during spring turkey season on these areas are one-half hour before sunrise to 1 p.m. Only gobblers (male) and bearded turkeys may be taken. The daily bag limit is one turkey, and the season limit is two. Baiting is against the law, but using decoys is allowed.
You may not use dogs to hunt turkeys, use recorded turkey calls or sounds, or shoot turkeys while they are on the roost (in a tree).
Spring turkey season runs March 17 – April 22 in the following areas, unless otherwise noted below. Click on area link to download management area rules and regulations, including map of the area.
Osceola turkeys inhabit these areas

Arbuckle WMA – 13,531 acres in Polk County. Season runs March 20-22 and April 3-5. There are 10, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis. Camping allowed only by permit from Division of Forestry by calling (863) 635-7801.

Big Bend WMA-Jena Unit – 12,522 acres in Dixie County. A no-cost, daily use permit is required and available at the check station.

Big Cypress WMA – 565,848 acres in Collier, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Season runs March 3 – April 8. Camping allowed.

Bull Creek WMA – 23,646 acres in Osceola County. Camping allowed.

Devil’s Hammock WMA – 7,635 acres in Levy County. Season runs March 17-25. There are 15, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis.

Green Swamp WMA – 49,768 acres in Polk, Sumter and Lake counties. Hunters must have a quota permit to hunt the first weekend, but there are 200, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis for the remainder of season. Camping allowed.

J.W. Corbett WMA – 60,288 acres in Palm Beach County. Season runs March 3 – April 8, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays only. Camping allowed.

Jumper Creek WMA – 10,512 acres in Sumter County. Camping allowed.

Kissimmee River Public Use Area – 23,433 acres in Glades, Highlands, Okeechobee, Osceola and Polk counties. Area is split between Central and South hunting zones. When hunting the South Zone, the season runs March 3 – April 8. Camping allowed only by permit from South Florida Water Management District by calling (800) 250-4200 ext. 3019. Management area permit not required.

Lochloosa WMA – 11,149 acres in Alachua County. Camping allowed only by permit from St. Johns River Water Management District by calling (386) 329-4404.

Richloam WMA – 58,146 acres in Hernando, Pasco, Sumter and Lake counties. Hunters must have a quota permit to hunt the first nine days, but those without may hunt the remainder of the season, March 26 – April 22. Camping allowed only by permit from Division of Forestry by calling (352) 754-6896.

Three Lakes WMA – 52,976 acres in Osceola County. Camping allowed.

Upper Hillsborough WMA – 5,178 acres in Polk and Pasco counties. Wednesdays and Thursdays only. There are 75, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis. Camping allowed.

Upper St. Johns River Marsh WMA – 119,419 acres in Brevard and Indian River counties. Camping allowed.

Eastern turkeys inhabit these areas

Apalachicola National Forest – 581,837 acres in Franklin, Leon, Liberty and Wakulla counties. Camping allowed.

Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area – 81,754 acres in Franklin and Gulf counties. Camping allowed. Management area permit not required.

Aucilla WMA – 47,532 acres in Jefferson and Taylor counties. Camping allowed.

Big Bend WMA:
• Hickory Mound Unit – 14,427 acres in Taylor County. A no-cost, daily use permit is required and available at the check station.

• Spring Creek Unit – 14,600 acres in Taylor County.

• Tide Swamp Unit – 19,538 acres in Taylor County. A no-cost, daily use permit is required and available at the check station.

Blackwater WMA – 191,148 acres in Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties. Camping allowed.

Eglin Air Force Base – 265,000 acres in Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. Hunting and camping allowed only by permit from Jackson Guard Natural Resource Office by calling (850) 883-1152. Only shotguns, bows or muzzleloaders may be used.

Escambia River WMA – 34,476 acres in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Camping allowed.

Joe Budd WMA – 11,039 acres in Gadsden County. Saturdays and Sundays only. There are 20, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis. Only bows or muzzleloaders may be used. Camping allowed.

Mallory Swamp WMA – 29,463 acres in Lafayette County. Season runs March 17 – April 1.

Ochlockonee River WMA – 2,790 acres in Leon County. Saturdays and Sundays only. Only shotguns, bows or muzzleloaders may be used.

Osceola National Forest – 266,270 acres in Baker and Columbia counties. Camping allowed.

Pine Log WMA – 6,911 acres in Bay and Washington counties. Season runs March 17 – April 1. Camping allowed.

Point Washington WMA – 12,414 acres in Walton County.

Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife and Environmental Area – 5,627 acres in Bradford County. Only bows or muzzleloaders may be used.

Steinhatchee Springs WMA – 20,909 acres in Lafayette, Dixie and Taylor counties. Season runs March 17 – April 8. There are 40, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis to hunt the first nine days.

Talquin WMA – 3,053 acres in Leon County. Saturdays and Sundays only.

Twin Rivers WMA – 9,288 acres in Madison, Hamilton and Suwannee counties. Season runs March 23-25 and April 13-15. There are 12, no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on first-come, first-served basis.

Upper Chipola River WMA – 7,377 acres in Jackson County. Camping allowed only by permit from Northwest Florida Water Management District by calling (850) 539-5999.

Map of Florida indicating where the National Wild Turkey Federation recognizes where each subspecies of wild turkey resides.

Visit www.MyFWC.com/hunting for more information on hunting Florida.

http://www.myfwc.com

Greeting's Chapter Presidents & Volunteers

February 12, 2007

Greetings Chapter Presidents:

Our first state board meeting of 2007 was held at Circle C ranch during the weekend of the Statewide Jakes event on January 28, 2007.

As expected we received good reviews on our State Volunteer Appreciation Day and the sale of “Hunt of a Lifetime” tickets. You all did a great job!

We voted to sell “Hunts of a Lifetime” tickets again this year and also will include second and possibly third prizes which will be rifles. Tickets will be printed soon and I will be in touch with you for distribution. Our next “Volunteer Appreciation Day” will be January 12, 2008 so we hope to have the same schedule and venue. We will most likely change motels.

If your chapter wants to sponsor a middle school “Archery in the Schools” program at this time it will cost only $875.00. Regional and a state tournament will be planned for 2008. This is an exciting program so get your local middle schools involved. It’s easy to find a sponsor or sponsors. Don’t forget any money raised outside your banquet is your chapters to use however you like.

The Southeastern and Florida State calling contests will be held at Bass Pro Shops during the Fall Hunting Classic in August 2007. Spread the word and if you want to get involved let us know. You can get a 15% discount on most items.

Edie Hartley and Wally Davis where elected to the State Board. Congratulations to these two new board members who have given a tremendous amount of time and energy to the NWTF in the past.

Watch for our ads in Turkey Call and the Florida Game and Fish Finder along with the banquet schedule. If your local gun shop, bait shop, or hunting and fishing store is not presently getting the Florida Game and Fish Finder call Ted Ensminger at 407-443-6605 or Edie Hartley at 904-287-5395.

Thanks for your time and efforts to help make Florida the number one state for the NWTF.

Want to know the latest on NWTF Florida log onto www.Floridanwtf.org E-mail your pictures to Steve at nwtfgobble@bellsouth.net

Thanks again for all you do for the NWTF & Florida

Lou Haubner
Florida Chapter, Vice President

Volunteers needed J. W. Corbett WMA

This is an ongoing project by the Palm Beach Chapter in cooperation with FWCC. This is funded through the Florida Super Fund and has been very successful. We usually mow and plant between 150 and 200 acres on the JW Corbett WMA which is 65,0000 acres. We have been very fortunate to have NWTF volunteers like Rudy Reimsnyder, Frank Montgomery, and myself. Since Rudy moved to Live Oak, I have been doing the work by myself with the help of the FWC Biologist. Since the project started the harvest of Osceola turkeys has increased setting new records year after year. Hunting is only allowed on Sats and Suns, but this year through working FWC and NWTF we have added an extra day, Wed, to accommodate people who have to work on weekends. We expect the harvest to go up. Will let you know how successful we have been.

P.S. I put in 6 to 8 hr day, 30 to 40 days a year to get all the planting in. If we could get more volunteers to help it would be greatly appreciated. This year I started on Dec 27 and continuing through the end of Feb. which would be more than 40 days this year. Could use some help.

Joe Brennan
Florida Director
591-793-6096
joeturky@aol.com

Pensacola man banned from hunting for life!!!

News Release
Pensacola man banned from hunting for life

January 26, 2007
CONTACT: Capt. Mary Sumner (850) 595-8905

An 18-year-old Pensacola man now knows citizens of his area and the local courts have little tolerance for repeated wildlife crimes.

Joshua Wayne Douglas and a 16-year-old Milton youth faced a Santa Rosa County judge last week after Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers charged them with killing three small spotted fawns on Christmas Eve near Munson on Division of Forestry property and shooting from a roadway. A Wildlife Alert tip led officers to the pair.

Douglas pled guilty and was sentenced to 120 days in jail and 30 hours of community service, fined $1,000 and ordered to pay $330 court costs, had his hunting privileges revoked for life and forfeited the shotgun used to kill the deer. The juvenile received probation.

It was Douglas’ second time before a Santa Rosa County judge in the past two months for shooting deer illegally or at night. He and an accomplice were charged Nov. 5 for night hunting deer after the pilot of an FWC airplane and ground units spotted the pair as they attempted to shoot a deer using a spotlight.

In that case, Douglas had to pay $500 in fines and court costs, was sentenced to 10 hours of community service and had his hunting license suspended for three years. The other hunter was fined $1,353.50 and ordered to perform 30 hours of community service, and his hunting license was suspended for three years.

A new Florida law allows local courts to deal seriously with repeat offenders. When repeat offenders’ violations occur within specified times, they face tougher penalties with each conviction.

“This just shows the serious attitude the criminal justice system takes with wildlife law violations,” said FWC Capt. Mary Sumner, who supervises officers in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. “In this case there were three small fawns that a number of locals had gotten used to seeing as they drove by the property every day.”

Florida is now a member of the Wildlife Violator Compact, a consortium of 24 states, electronically linked to share information about persons whose hunting or fishing privileges are suspended or revoked. There are 12-13 additional states in the process of joining the compact.

Douglas may not hunt in any state that is a member of the compact.

http://myfwc.com/whatsnew/07/statewide/lifeban.html

Florida Hunter Safety Mentoring Program

Effective August 1st, 2006 anyone 16 years of age or older and born after May 31st, 1975 can hunt under the supervision of a licensed hunter. Please download the article for more information or visit www.myfwc.com for more information on youth hunting in Florida.
www.myfwc.com
Download PDF Document

NWTF forms partnership with Progress Energy

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Progress Energy, an energy company that serves 1.6 million customers in Florida, has joined with the National Wild Turkey Federation to improve wildlife habitat on its rights of way in the Apalachicola National Forest, southwest of Tallahassee.

Partners will manage and fund 7.5 miles of supplemental planting along transmission rights of way. Well-managed openings provide beneficial habitat for many game and non-game wildlife species, including wild turkeys. These management efforts will improve populations by improving successional habitat — grasses and small shrubs that attract insects, making it easier for wildlife to forage for food. These open areas are also considered critical for nesting birds such as quail.

“Progress Energy staff knows managing vegetation on its transmission line rights of way is important to providing reliable power to its customers,” said Brian Zielinski, NWTF regional biologist. “They also know wildlife benefits greatly from properly managed habitat.”

Progress Energy is headquartered in Raleigh, N.C., and its holdings include two electric utilities serving an estimated 3 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida. In the Apalachicola National Forest, Progress Energy operates and maintains 600 acres of rights of way.

“Progress Energy believes we have a responsibility to protect the environment while fulfilling our obligation to provide affordable, reliable electric service,” said Sarah Rogers, vice president of Transmission for Progress Energy. “We take great pride in being a good environmental steward of the natural resources we share with our customers.”

“This is a great example of how conservation partners can meet the needs of more than the wildlife it’s designed to benefit,” said William Sullivan, president of the NWTF Florida state chapter. “By creating wildlife openings along rights of way, energy companies are improving important brood-rearing habitat for wild turkeys and other wildlife.”

Project partners also include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the USDA Forest Service.

For more information about rights of way conservation efforts in the Apalachicola National Forest, contact Brian Zielinski, NWTF regional biologist at (386) 804-6691. For more information about the NWTF or its Energy for Wildlife program, visit the Web site at www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF.

About the NWTF: In 1973, when the National Wild Turkey Federation was founded, there were an estimated 1.3 million wild turkeys and 1.5 million turkey hunters. Thanks to the work of wildlife agencies and the NWTF’s many volunteers and partners, today there are more than 7 million wild turkeys and nearly 3 million turkey hunters. Since 1985, the NWTF and its cooperators have spent more than $230 million upholding hunting traditions and conserving more than 11.3 million acres of wildlife habitat.

The NWTF is a nonprofit organization with 545,000 members in 50 states, Canada, Mexico and 14 other foreign countries. It supports scientific wildlife management on public, private and corporate lands as well as wild turkey hunting as a traditional North American sport.

For more information on the National Wild Turkey Federation, call (803) 637-3106, Checkout our Web site at www.nwtf.org.

Florida State Chapter Calling Contest Results

The Florida State Chapter held its annual sanctioned caling contest on August 26th, 2006...

Winners

SOUTHERN OPEN
1. Scott Ellis - Mulberry, FL
2. Joe Drake - Fortson, GA
3. Craig Wolfe - Auburn, AL

FLORIDA SENIOR
1. Scott Ellis - Mulberry, FL
2. Donald Parker - High Springs, FL
3. Adam Lanza - Kissimmee, FL

JUNIOR
1. Keenan Adams - Bainbridge, GA
2. Aaron Walters - Lakeland, FL
3. A.J. Walters - Lakeland, FL

OWL HOOTING
1. Bob Barnard - Bushnell, FL
2. Aaron Walters - Lakeland, FL

GOBBLING
1. Bob Barnard - Bushnell, FL
2. Brian Martz - Sebring, FL
3. Donald Parker - High Springs, FL

Operation Oak Landowner Program for 2007

Operation Oak Program 2006

National Wild Turkey Federation – Operation Oak Landowner Program for 2007

The National Wild Turkey Federation is very proud to announce the continued expansion of its Operation Oak Program that is dedicated to restoring and creating wildlife habitat throughout the Southeast. A partnership between the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the NWTF has made 10,000 select oak seedlings available FREE to private landowners in Florida. A total of 4,000 Live Oak, 4,000 Water Oak, 1,000 White Oak, and 1,000 Persimmon will be available to landowners, with a minimum order of 100 trees. These native seedlings are grown under a specialized nursery protocol at the Flint River Nursery in Georgia. The result of this nursery protocol is a large, vigorous seedling with high survivability, high growth potential, and the potential to produce mast in approximately 7-10 years. PARTICIPANTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO PICK-UP THEIR SEEDLINGS FROM A CENTRALIZED LOCATION IN THE STATE. Pick-up locations and dates will be finalized in November and trees will be made available in early February.

I hope you will be able to participate in our tree-planting program this year and provide long-term habitat for wild turkeys and other wildlife. If you are interested in receiving FREE seedlings you must complete an application form and mail, e-mail or fax it back to the attention of: Kay Morris, Operation Oak, P.O. Box 530, Edgefield, SC 29824, kmorris@nwtf.net, fax (803) 637-9180. APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED IN EDGEFIELD ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 1, 2006.

If you would like to receive an application or have additional questions about participating in our 2007 program, please contact Brian M. Zielinski, NWTF Regional Biologist, @ 386-804-6691 or via email: bzielinskinwtf@hotmail.com. Thank You !

The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) has exploded across the country.

The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) has exploded across the country. In 2001, the National Tournament hosted 651 students. At this year’s championship in Louisville, Kentucky, 2,152 students competed in three different age groups for trophies and medals. Kentucky, where the program originated, now has 451 schools with 220,000 children participating in their physical education classes. NASP is a cooperative effort between the departments of education and the conservation agencies in each state.

NASP is designed to teach 'JOAD' (Junior Olympic Archery Development) style target archery in 4th-12th grades. Core content covers archery history, safety, technique, equipment, mental concentration, and self-improvement. Before presenting the 2-week archery course, teachers undergo an 8-hour NASP Basic Archery Instructor training program.

Students shoot at bulls-eye targets placed before an arrow-resistant net in their gymnasium. Equipment used is state-of-the art and designed to fit every student. The benefit to the individual child is enormous; it fills them with enthusiasm. They really believe in themselves when they find they can do something like this because they’ve never before had the opportunity.

To address safety concerns, the teachers stand at the shooting line. Everything is done with whistle commands, as students are instructed to pick up the bow, walk to the firing line and pick up one arrow. Always pointing it downrange in a safe direction, they fire three shots upon command, rack the bow and return to the waiting line. Then the whistle allows them to go downrange and withdraw the arrows out of the target in a safe manner. When they carry the arrows back, they carry them covering the tips so there’s no possibility of someone getting hurt.

Currently, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has trained educators from 29 schools, mostly middle or junior high schools. According to a nationwide study, children are most receptive to the NASP program in the 6th-8th grades. At least three more training workshops are scheduled in Florida at this time, with others in the planning stages. Curriculums are written to meet Sunshine Standards for PE programs in grade levels 4 & 5, 6-8 and 9-12.

Forty-five states now participate or are committed to begin their NASP program in 2006. South Carolina held their first state tournament on March 24. Georgia will offer its initial tournament on April 8, and Alabama will hold their third on April 18. Florida has tentatively scheduled their first state tournament in the spring of 2008, possibly in Orlando.

Please contact your school administrators and ask them to look at the National Archery in the Schools Program website (http://www.nasparchery.com/activea.asp). Your children have an opportunity to learn a life skill which could lead to after-school participation in clubs and events. Who knows, maybe your son or daughter could become the next renowned Olympic archer!

Photo credits to Doug Oatmann

http://www.nasparchery.com/activea.asp