This page was last updated on December 17, 2007

Tentative 2008 Season Opening Dates Announced

To help North Dakota hunters prepare for hunting seasons in 2008, the North Dakota Game and Fish Department annually provides its best estimate for opening dates for the coming year.

Dates become official when approved by governor’s proclamation. Tentative opening dates for 2008 include:

Registration Available for Hunter Education Classes

Individuals interested in taking a hunter education class in 2008 can register online at the North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s website.

Access the Game and Fish home page at gf.nd.gov, click on the online services tab, and “online course enrollment” under the hunter education heading.  Classes are listed by city, and can also be sorted by start date.  To register for a class, click on “enroll” next to the specific class, and follow the simple instructions.  Personal information is required.

Jim Carter, hunter education supervisor, said students may sign up for only one course.  “If a situation arises where a person cannot attend a course, the student should go back in and delete their registration,” Carter said.  “It is important to do this so the class can be filled by another interested person.”

The entire list of classes for 2008 is not yet available, and only those that are finalized are listed on the website.  Classes will be added as they are finalized.

Those who do not have access to the Internet and want to sign up for a class can call the hunter education office in Bismarck at 328-6615.

Hunter education courses are free.  State law requires anyone born after Dec. 31, 1961 to pass a certified hunter education course to hunt in the state.  Hunter education is mandatory for youth who are turning 12 years old, and children can take the class at age 11.

Spiritwood Lake Opens to Darkhouse Spearfishing Jan. 1

Spiritwood Lake in Stutsman County opens to darkhouse spearfishing Jan. 1.  All other lakes where darkhouse spearfishing is allowed opened Dec. 1.

All individuals who participate in darkhouse spearfishing, regardless of age, must register with the Game and Fish Department.  Registration is free and available at the department’s website, gf.nd.gov, or through any Game and Fish Department office.

Anglers should refer to the 2006-08 North Dakota Fishing Guide for winter fishing regulations.

Burkett Named Game and Fish Employee of the Year

Bruce Burkett, commercial and investigations supervisor for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, received the Director’s Award for 2007 during the department’s annual meeting Dec. 6 in Bismarck.

Terry Steinwand, director, said Burkett was challenged with creating an entirely new method of regulating guides and outfitters after the state legislature revised the law in 2003.  “He has since assisted in establishing an advisory board, written new administrative rules, created a test and testing procedure, developed policy and conducted statewide informational meetings,” Steinwand said.

Burkett was also recognized for his investigation skills, including developing policy and providing training on how investigations should be conducted.

“The result of all this is a much improved system to regulate a large commercial activity which has direct impact on wildlife resources and the public access to them,” Steinwand said.  “Bruce’s efforts have resulted in North Dakota coming to the forefront on a national level as a place that takes the illegal commercial taking of wildlife as serious business and aggressively seeks out and prosecutes those who commit those violations.”

Knutson Named Wildlife Officer of the Year

Chris Knutson, North Dakota Game and Fish Department district game warden stationed in Devils Lake, is the state’s 2007 Wildlife Officer of the Year.  Knutson was honored recently by the Shikar-Safari Club International, a private conservation organization that annually recognizes outstanding wildlife officers in each state.

In a nomination letter sent to Shikar-Safari, chief warden Robert Timian noted that Knutson’s district includes Devils Lake, the second largest body of water in North Dakota, and his knowledge of the lake has proven to be a valuable asset not only in his boating, hunting and fishing law enforcement efforts, but also in search and rescue events.  “Many times warden Knutson has navigated through rough waters of Devils Lake, mainly at night, to locate lost or overdue boaters,” Timian said.

On one particular occasion, Timian mentioned, Knutson was called out to locate two duck hunters who had capsized their skiff and were up to their necks in water-filled waders in a backwater cattail sough connected to the big lake.  With the aid of a GPS, Knutson guided the search and rescue boat over a sandbar to the slough where the hunters, almost hypothermic, were found and rescued.

“Warden Knutson is professional, fair and even-handed in the way that he deals with violators and the public in general,” Timian continued.  “His rapport with the public and co-workers is one of his greatest assets.”

Game and Fish Recognizes Employee Efforts

North Dakota Game and Fish Department Director Terry Steinwand recently honored a number of employees with performance-based awards.  Steinwand presented the following awards at the department’s annual staff meeting Dec. 6.

·        Devils Lake fisheries personnel Randy Hiltner, Phil Miller and Lynn Schlueter received the Special Projects award, given to an individual or group who either successfully completed a project of short duration, or implemented a successful new project.  They were recognized for their work in keeping carp out of Devils Lake.  “In August local staff were involved in an intensive effort monitoring and eradicating areas where carp may have had made their way over the divide,” Steinwand said.  “This has proven to be an extremely challenging endeavor, and they have done an outstanding job meeting these ongoing challenges.”

·        Mike Anderson and Tom Jensen, Bismarck, were presented with the Innovations award, which recognizes staff for implementing a process to improve department goals and objectives.  Anderson and Jensen developed and produced a weekly online webcast in 2007.  “The webcast has been successful in using the Internet to distribute timely Game and Fish news and information in a new way that complements the department’s traditional communications and outreach media efforts,” Steinwand said.

·        Tonya Kukowski, Jamestown, received the Solid Foundation award, presented to an employee or group who demonstrate exemplary work in the administrative, technical or support field.  According to Steinwand, Kukowski is a proficient and effective office manager.  “She is very instrumental in the daily operations of our Jamestown field office,” Steinwand said.  “She coordinates everything from office scheduling to maintenance of service contracts.  She is always willing to help with any task.”

·        Lynn Schlueter, Devils Lake, received the Public Outreach award, presented to an employee for showing a significant effort, ability, or accomplishment in interacting with the public while promoting the department’s programs.  Schlueter is the biologist primarily responsible for the management of aquatic nuisance species.  “As ANS rules are becoming established, Lynn has ventured into every aspect of public outreach, making sure all forums of media are aware of ongoing issues,” Steinwand said.  “He has chaired the ANS committee, and has done a wonderful job of communicating with other agencies and the public on this important issue.”

• Ken Skuza, district game warden, Riverdale, received the 2007 National Association of State Boating Law Administrators Officer of the Year award for North Dakota.  Each state in NASBLA selects a person for a national award.  Among the criteria for receiving the award is boating activity in regards to law enforcement, education, search and rescue, outreach and training.  Skuza is responsible for boat safety enforcement activities on more than 100 miles of Lake Sakakawea, as well as numerous smaller lakes in his district.  Nancy Boldt, boat and water safety coordinator said, “Officer Skuza is more than willing to assist other officers with enforcing boating laws and conducting investigations in other districts.  He routinely volunteers to assist with boat safety enforcement duties, and his devotion to the job has certainly made the lakes in North Dakota a safer place for users to enjoy.”

Fish Houses must be Made of Floatable Material

Winter anglers are reminded that fish houses placed on North Dakota waters must be made of floatable materials.

Robert Timian, enforcement chief for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, said that old car bodies or campers, including pull types, fifth wheelers or pop-ups, do not qualify as legal fish houses.

“There are some who think they can use a camper as a fish house,” Timian said.  “That is not the case.”

That is not to say a camper can’t be taken on the ice, Timian said.  “They can, but they can’t be left on the ice unoccupied,” he added.

Other fish house regulations include:

• Fish houses are not required to be licensed.
• Fish houses can be constructed of any size.
• Occupied structures do not require identification.  However, any unoccupied fish house must have the owner’s name, and either address or telephone number, displayed on its outside in readily distinguishable characters at least three inches high.
• Fish houses may not be placed closer than 50 feet in any direction to another house without consent of the occupant of the other fish house.
• Fish houses shall be removed from all waters by midnight, March 15, of each year.
• Portable fish houses can be used after March 15 if they are removed daily.

Anglers should refer to the 2006-08 North Dakota Fishing Guide for winter fishing regulations.

Canada Goose Season Closes Dec. 21, Others to Follow

Late season hunters still have time to get out in the field and enjoy North Dakota’s deer, waterfowl, upland game, turkey, small game and furbearer opportunities.

The season for Canada geese closes Dec. 21, while high plains duck hunting continues through Dec 30.

Archery deer, sharp-tailed and ruffed grouse, partridge, pheasant and tree squirrel hunting seasons continue through Jan. 6, 2008.

The fall wild turkey season is open until Jan. 13, 2008.

Bobcat, mink and weasel hunting and trapping, muskrat trapping, and the mountain lion season in Zone 2 is open through March 9, 2008.

Fox, coyote, raccoon, badger and beaver hunting and trapping are open year-round.

2008 North Dakota OUTDOORS Calendar Available

The 2008 North Dakota OUTDOORS calendar is available for $3 at the state Game and Fish Department’s Bismarck office.

The calendar features outstanding color photographs of North Dakota wildlife and scenery, and includes season opening and application deadline dates, sunrise-sunset times and moon phases.

To order by mail, send $3 plus $1 postage for each calendar to: Calendar, North Dakota Game and Fish Department, 100 N. Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck, ND 58501-5095.

The calendar is printed as North Dakota OUTDOORS December issue. Subscription rates are $10 for one year or $20 for three.

Current Ice Conditions Won’t Support Much Weight

North Dakota Game and Fish Department personnel advise winter anglers to remain patient because ice conditions are not yet safe enough to support much weight.

Nancy Boldt, boat and water safety coordinator for the state Game and Fish Department, said even though temperatures remain below freezing, ice is just beginning to form.  “We need several more days of temperatures to remain below freezing in order to start producing stable ice,” Boldt said.

Even in the heart of winter ice thickness is not consistent, Boldt mentioned, and can vary considerably within a few inches.  “Ice shouldn’t be judged strictly by appearance,” she said.

Winter anglers and trappers need to study ice conditions before marching out on any of North Dakota’s frozen waters.  The Game and Fish Department offers this advice:

• Be aware on snow-covered ice as snow insulates ice, hampering solid ice formation, and it makes it difficult to check thickness.  Snow also hides the blemishes, such as cracked, weak and open water areas.
• Avoid cracks, pressure ridges, slushy or darker areas that signal thinner ice.  The same goes for ice that forms around partially submerged trees, brush, embankments or other structures.
• Remember, ice thickness is not consistent and can vary significantly with a few inches.  Ice shouldn’t be judge by appearance alone.  Anglers should drill test holes as they make their way out on the lake, and an ice chisel should be used to check ice thickness while moving around.
• Daily temperature changes causes ice to expand and contract, affecting its strength.
• Visit with locals – other anglers and people at local bait shops – before going on an unfamiliar lake.
• The following minimums are recommended for travel on clear-blue lake ice formed under ideal conditions.  However, early in the winter it’s a good idea to double these figures to be safe: 4 inches for a group walking single file; 6 inches for a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle; 8-12 inches for an automobile; and 12-15 inches for a pickup/truck.

These tips could help save a life:

• Wear a personal flotation device and carry a cell phone.
• Carry ice picks or a set of screwdrivers to pull yourself back on the ice if you fall through.
• If someone breaks through the ice, call 911 immediately.  Rescue attempts should employ a long pole, board, rope, blanket or snowmobile suit.  If that’s not possible, throw the victim a life jacket, empty water jug or other buoyant object.  Go to the victim as a last resort, but do this by forming a human chain where rescuers lie on the ice with each person holding the feet of the person in front.
• To treat hypothermia, replace wet clothing with dry clothing and immediately transport victim to a hospital.

Deadline for Youth Hunting Grant Program is Dec. 31

Wildlife, shooting, civic or fraternal organizations interested in applying for a grant designed to encourage youth hunting participation or training must submit an application to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department by Dec. 31.

Grant funds will help cover event expenses, including promotional printing; event memorabilia such as shirts, caps or vests; ammunition and targets, and eye and ear protection.  Grants can also be used for shooting range improvement or development.

Nonprofit organizations registered with the North Dakota Secretary of State’s office to provide public service are eligible to apply.  The organization must have officers, a treasury account, liability coverage and private locations to conduct events.

For more information or to receive application materials, contact Nathaniel Umphrey, Game and Fish Department outreach biologist in Bismarck, at 701-328-6332, or by email at numphrey@nd.gov.

Muzzleloader Season Opens Nov. 30, Antlerless Licenses Available

North Dakota’s muzzleloader deer season opens at noon Friday, Nov. 30 and continues through Dec. 16.  Hunters with a lottery muzzleloader license can hunt white-tailed deer statewide.

In addition, unfilled second, third or other concurrent season any-antlerless, antlerless whitetail, or antlerless mule deer licenses are still valid, but only in the unit to which the license is assigned.  Hunters with these licenses must use a muzzleloader and hunt only the species printed on the license.

Doe licenses are still available in units 1, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F1, 2J2, 2K2, 2L, 3F1 and 4F for hunters who would like to participate in the muzzleloader season.  These licenses must be used with a muzzleloader in the assigned unit.

Hunters can apply online from the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, gf.nd.gov.  Residents and nonresidents are eligible to apply.  Licenses may be purchased throughout the season as long as they are available.

Darkhouse Spearfishing Opens Dec. 1

Darkhouse spearfishing participants are advised to stay off state waters in early December as ice conditions will be marginal at best.

Nancy Boldt, boat and water safety coordinator for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, said ice is just beginning to form.  “It might look solid enough around the edges, but it is going to be awhile before ice conditions are strong enough to support weight,” Boldt said.

North Dakota’s darkhouse spearfishing season opens on a number of lakes Dec. 1 – with the exception of Jan. 1 for Spiritwood Lake – and continues through Feb. 29.

All individuals who participate in darkhouse spearfishing must register with the Game and Fish Department.  Registration is available at the department’s website, gf.nd.gov, or through any Game and Fish Department office.

Darkhouse spearfishing is allowed for all residents with a valid fishing license, and those under the age of 16.  Nonresidents from states that allow North Dakotans to darkhouse spearfish can participate in North Dakota with a valid fishing license. Of neighboring states, only Minnesota does not allow nonresident darkhouse spearfishing.

Other regulations include:

• Legal fish are northern pike and nongame species.
• A spear is counted as a pole (line) while darkhouse spearfishing.
• Pneumatic or rubber band powered spear guns are not allowed.
• When a darkhouse is moved or a hole larger than 12 inches in diameter is left in the ice, the hole must be adequately marked with a natural object (such as a tree branch or tumbleweed) visible from a minimum of 150 feet.
• No size limit on ice hole in lakes where darkhouse spearing is allowed.  However, hook and line fishing is legal only in holes no larger than 12 inches in diameter.
• Legal live baitfish, with the exception of white sucker, and artificial lures can be used as decoys.
• Daily/possession limits are the same as for hook and line fishing.
• Lakes open to darkhouse spearing are South Eckelson, Barnes County; Devils Lake, Benson/Ramsey counties; Silver Lake, Benson County; Powers Lake, Burke County; Rice Lake, Emmons County; Juanita Lake, Foster County; Sibley Lake, Griggs County; Lake Etta/Alkaline Lake complex, Horsehead Lake and Round Lake, Kidder County; Flood Lake and Diamond Lake, LaMoure County; Beaver Lake and West Napoleon Lake, Logan County; Buffalo Lodge Lake, McHenry County; Coldwater Lake and Dry/Goose Lake, McIntosh County; Stanley Reservoir, Mountrail County; Lake Laretta and Stump Lake, Nelson County; Cavanaugh Lake, Lake Irvine, Morrison Lake and Sweetwater Lake, Ramsey County; Grass Lake, Richland County; Carpenter Lake, Island Lake and School Section Lake, Rolette County; Buffalo Lake, Sargent County; Coal Mine Lake, Sheridan County; Mallard Marsh, Spiritwood Lake and Sunday Lake, Stutsman County; Cottonwood Lake and Tioga Reservoir, Williams County; Lake Sakakawea from Garrison Dam to U.S. Highway 85 bridge at Williston and all tributaries upstream to the first vehicular crossing; and Lake Oahe from the South Dakota border to MacLean Bottoms boat ramp and all tributaries upstream to the first vehicular crossing.

Ice Fishing Tournaments Require 30-Day Notice

Organizers planning ice fishing tournaments or contests are reminded to submit an application to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department at least 30 days prior to the start of the event.

The 30-day advance notice allows for review by agency staff to ensure no negative impacts will result from the proposed tournament.

Organizers are asked to contact the Game and Fish Department at 328-6349 for additional information.

Refuges Open to Late-Season Upland Game

Several national wildlife refuges in North Dakota will open to late-season upland game bird hunting the day after deer gun season closes.

Arrowwood, Audubon, Des Lacs, J. Clark Salyer, Lake Alice, Lake Zahl, Long Lake, Lostwood, Tewaukon (pheasants only), and Upper Souris NWRs open Nov. 26.

Contact refuge headquarters for map leaflets designating closed areas and other restrictions: Arrowwood (701) 285-3341; Audubon (701) 442-5474; Des Lacs (701) 385-4046; J. Clark Salyer (701) 768-2548; Lake Alice (701) 662-8611; Lake Zahl (701) 965-6488; Long Lake (701) 387-4397; Lostwood (701) 848-2722; Tewaukon (701) 724-3598; and Upper Souris (701) 468-5467.

Hunters are reminded that use of nontoxic shot is required on all U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands.  State regulations found in the North Dakota 2007-08 Small Game Guide apply.  Seasons for pheasant, sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge and ruffed grouse close statewide on Jan. 6, 2008.

National wildlife refuges are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Portions of each refuge are closed to hunting.

Sign up for Weekly Webcast Update

News release subscribers now have the option to add another North Dakota Game and Fish Department update by email.

Outdoors Online is a weekly video news broadcast available exclusively on the Game and Fish Department’s website, gf.nd.gov.  The program is hosted and produced by Tom Jensen and Mike Anderson, the department’s national award-winning video team.

An email reminder alerting subscribers of the current week’s video news broadcast will be sent out each Thursday.  To subscribe to the free weekly message, access the department website’s multimedia page.

Each webcast will focus on current news and issues that appeal to people who hunt, fish, trap and enjoy North Dakota’s outdoors.  Each week Jensen will host a studio guest, and also keep viewers up-to-date on what they need to know to better enjoy their outdoor activities. 

Three Lakes Closed to Fall, Winter Fishing

Anglers are reminded that three North Dakota lakes have recently closed to fishing until next spring.

McDowell Dam (Burleigh County), Lightning Lake (McLean County), and Kettle Lake (Williams County) are closed to fishing from Nov. 1 through March 31.

Anglers should refer to the 2006-08 North Dakota Fishing Guide for further regulations.

Witnesses Asked to Report Violations

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department encourages hunters, anglers and landowners who have witnessed a fish or wildlife violation to file a report with the Report All Poachers program.

RAP is a cooperative project between the Game and Fish Department, State Radio Communications and the North Dakota Wildlife Federation.  The RAP line offers rewards – from $100 to $1,000 depending on the nature and seriousness of the crime – for information that leads to conviction of fish and wildlife law violators.  Reports can also go directly to game wardens or other law enforcement agencies.  Callers can remain anonymous.

Witnesses should note vehicle description, including make, color, license plate number and state issued.  Description of the violator should also be considered.

In 2007, state radio has sent 161 incident reports to game wardens, with approximately 20 percent of those RAP calls.  Robert Timian, chief of enforcement for the Game and Fish Department, said even though some citizens are not interested in the reward, it is still important to play a role in landing potential violators.

"A typical call received through RAP is from someone saying 'I want to report someone shooting too many ducks', or 'someone didn't tag a buck.'  A violation of any type can be reported," Timian said.

Reporting a violation is extremely important, Timian said, because each warden covers a large district.  "With a staff of 34 wardens covering the entire state we can't be everywhere," he said.

Witnesses should report a violation by calling the RAP telephone number at 800-472-2121.  RAP will then contact the local game warden immediately.  If the witness gives the RAP operator a phone number, the witness will be contacted right away.

Maps Showing School Trust Lands Available on Web

Maps showing aerial photographs and Global Positioning System coordinates of school trust lands are now available on the North Dakota State Land Department website at www.land.state.nd.us.

 Users should click on aerial photographs of school trust lands, and then access the map search icon.  "We did the maps because we are hoping that it will help the public who may want to hike or hunt on school trust lands," said Mike Brand, director of the surface management division.

Maps of school trust lands are available in two formats: color aerial photographs from 2003 with outlines of the school trust lands showing latitude and longitude of section corners, and only the outlines of the school trust lands with latitude and longitude of corners.  Maps can be used either with or without a GPS unit.

The state trust lands link can also be accessed at the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website at gf.nd.gov.

Game and Fish Assess Mountain Lions in North Dakota

Data collected by the state Game and Fish Department over the past several years has allowed biologists to make some observations regarding the continued presence of mountain lions in North Dakota.

Dorothy Fecske, department furbearer biologist, said DNA analysis of 17 lions sampled since 2004 indicates that mountain lions probably have been breeding in the badlands of western North Dakota for at least the past decade.

"Most of the lions were not related to each other," Fecske said.  "This provides clear evidence that multiple breeding-age females likely occurred in the badlands since the late 1990s."

Also, the age and sex composition of lions taken in the badlands during the past two hunting seasons indicates the population apparently has not declined because of hunter harvest.

During the past two hunting seasons (not including 2007), no breeding-age females were taken by hunters and all animals taken appeared in good nutritional condition.  "The adult breeding-age females are the most important animals to keep track of, especially for a relatively small and isolated lion population like we have in North Dakota," Fecske said.

Data also suggests the mountain lion population may be expanding into the northern Missouri River breaks, the counties bordering Lake Sakakawea and the upper reaches of the Missouri River.  Four confirmed sightings have been documented in this area over the past 18 months, compared to only one confirmed sighting the previous five years.  Also, the Three Affiliated Tribes reported an increase in mountain lion sightings on the Fort Berthold Reservation in 2007 than in previous years.

According to a habitat suitability map, the badlands and Missouri River breaks contain sufficient suitable habitat to support a small population of 45 to 74 resident adult animals if there were no hunting mortality.  Fecske said mountain lions historically have appeared in this region of the state.

Since July, the department has continued to receive reports of lions and lion activity in North Dakota, including a road-killed male found in Hettinger County; a photo of a lion kitten estimated at 6-9 months old in Mercer County; and a litter of two 6-8-week-old kittens in Dunn County.

Also, hunters during the 2007-08 mountain lion hunting season (through Oct. 12) have harvested three lions – two in Dunn County and the other in McKenzie County.  Two were sub-adult females, while the other was an adult female.  Hunters can take any mountain lion other than kittens (lions with visible spots), or females accompanied by kittens.

Another note of interest is that a young male, fitted with a radio-collar last November after inadvertently getting caught in a trap in the badlands, has remained in the region.  The lion has traveled over an area of 140 square miles in 11 months.

"We continue to document lion activity in North Dakota.  We don't have all the answers yet, but every passing month we are learning more about the state's lion population and how to properly manage it," Fecske said.

A report summarizing mountain lions in North Dakota, including a status report prior to 2006 and information collected since, is available on the Game and Fish Department website at gf.nd.gov.

Motorists Advised to Slow Down, Watch for Deer

Late October through early December is when deer are most active, resulting in the peak period for deer-vehicle accidents.  Because of this, motorists are advised to slow down, exercise caution, and be alert for deer crossing roadways.

Most deer-vehicle accidents occur primarily at dawn and dusk when deer are most active.  When one deer crosses the road, there is a good chance a second or third may follow.  It is also important to pay attention on roadways posted with Deer Crossing Area caution signs, because deer are known to be in the area.

If an accident does happen, a local law enforcement agency should be contacted.  Also, a permit is required to take parts or the whole carcass of a road-killed deer.  Permits are free and available from game wardens and local law enforcement offices.

A few precautions can minimize chances of injury or property damage in a deer-vehicle crash.

·        Always wear your seat belt.

·        Don't swerve or take the ditch to avoid hitting a deer.  Try to brake as much as possible and stay on the roadway. Don't lose control of your vehicle or slam into something else to miss the deer.  You risk less injury by hitting the deer.

·        If you spot deer ahead, slow down immediately and honk your horn.

·        No published research supports the effectiveness of deer whistles on vehicles.  Deer can't hear ultrasonic frequencies.

NDGF Explains Use of Certified Volunteers for Elk Reduction in TRNP

North Dakota Game and Fish Department Director Terry Steinwand has sent a letter to the National Park Service explaining how his agency would like to see certified volunteers used to reduce the elk population within Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

In a letter sent Sept. 12 to NPS Director Mary Bomar, Steinwand defines a certified volunteer as someone who has passed an approved hunter education course, is legally eligible to obtain the necessary North Dakota license or permit to take or possess big game, and participates in a specialized training course designed by TRNP and North Dakota Game and Fish personnel.  Once approved, a certified volunteer could receive a permit to remove an elk from the park.

Certified volunteers would remove elk by using high-powered rifles from November through February, a time that coincides with state hunting seasons outside the park, and a time when park visitation is low.  Certified volunteers would remove the carcasses as per NPS policy, process the meat themselves and either keep it or donate it to a food pantry.

Once the initial elk population goal for the park is achieved, volunteers would also participate in additional removal action as needed to maintain the desired elk population.

The Game and Fish Department is adamant that the park service’s development of an Environmental Impact Statement include using certified volunteers as an alternative for reducing elk numbers within the park’s south unit.

The EIS is scheduled for public presentation in December.

Streeter Based Hunting Guide Corporation Charged

State charges have been filed in Stutsman County District Court against Coteau Prairie Waterfowl, Whitetail and Upland Bird Hunts of Streeter ND Inc, and Streeter residents Brenda Schlecht, Sheldon Schlecht and Jeff Effinger.  The Stutsman County States Attorney’s Office authorized and filed a total of 176 charges in connection to the unlicensed activity of the individuals.

Included in the charges are 147 counts against the corporation, alleging that the corporation provided outfitting services without a license, and used the premises and web address of an outfitter that had been previously convicted of a criminal federal game and fish violation.  Records show that Brenda Schlecht is the owner of the corporation.

Brenda Schlect, as an individual, faces two counts of outfitting without a license, and one count of holding herself out or advertising guide and outfitting services without being licensed.

Sheldon Schlecht is charged with 19 counts of outfitting without a license and four counts of holding himself out or advertising guide and outfitting services without being licensed.

Jeff Effinger is charged with two counts of guiding or outfitting without a license, and one count of holding himself out or advertising guide and outfitting services without being licensed.

Guiding or outfitting without a license is Class A misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of $2,000 fine and or a year in jail per count for the individuals, and $15,000 per count to the corporation.

In addition, Jeff Effinger is facing one count of terrorizing, a Class C felony.  In January 2007 officers of the Game and Fish Department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service served eight search warrants on locations in Streeter and Jamestown.  Effinger is alleged to have threatened officers of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

A jury trial on the terrorizing charge is scheduled for October 10, 2007 in Jamestown.  A Class C felony is punishable by a maximum fine of up to $5,000 and five years in prison.  This count is also being prosecuted by the Stutsman County States Attorney’s Office.

The state charges stem from a joint federal and state investigation lasting for more than a year.  While both state and federal laws regulate commercial hunting activities, only state law regulate the issuance of guiding licenses.  Federal authorities continue to investigate the hunting activities of the guide service.

Fall Turkey, Swan, Deer Licenses Remain

Interested turkey, swan and deer hunters still have time to purchase a license for the 2007 hunting seasons.

As of Sept. 24, more than 450 fall turkey licenses are available to hunters who do not already have a license, or for those who want additional licenses.  Turkey licenses remain in Unit 13, Dunn County; Unit 17, portions of Billings and Golden Valley counties north of Interstate 94; and Unit 99, Mercer and Oliver counties.

The fall wild turkey season opens Oct. 13 and continues through Jan. 13, 2008.  Turkey licenses are $8 for residents and $80 for nonresidents.

Hunters who do not have a swan license for the 2007 hunting season still have an opportunity to purchase one, as more than 100 are still available.  Remaining swan licenses will be issued only as a first license.  The fee is $5 for residents and $25 for nonresidents.

The statewide tundra swan hunting season is Sept. 29 – Dec. 9.

More than 21,000 antlerless deer licenses are available to hunters who don’t already have a license, or for those who want additional licenses.  Doe licenses are still available in units 1, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F1, 2G, 2H, 2I, 2J2, 2K2, 2L, 3A2, 3A4, 3B1, 3D1, 3E1, 3E2, 3F1, 3F2, 4E and 4F.

These remaining antlerless licenses – and doe licenses that have already been issued and are printed with second, third or additional concurrent season designations – can be used during any open season: bow season with a bow; the deer gun season with a bow, rifle, or muzzleloader; or during the muzzleloader season with a muzzleloader.  Hunters must stay in the unit to which the license is assigned.

In addition, the following units still have landowners who are willing to host antlerless deer hunters.  Landowners are looking for antlerless mule deer hunters in units 4B, 4D, 4E and 4F; and antlerless white-tailed deer hunters in units 2K2, 3A4, 3B1, 3E2, 3F2 and 4A.

Interested hunters can get their name on a list of possible participants by accessing the North Dakota Game and Fish Department's website and clicking on the appropriate link; or hunters can access the URL directly at http://gf.nd.gov/gnfapps/HunterContact/index.asp.  Hunters who do not have Internet access can call the Bismarck Game and Fish office at 701-328-6300.

The archery season is open through Jan. 6, 2008; the regular deer gun season opens at noon Nov. 9 and continues through Nov. 25; and the muzzleloader season opens at noon Nov. 30 and continues through Dec. 16.  License fees are $20 for residents and $55 for nonresidents.

Resident and nonresident fall turkey, swan and deer hunters can apply online at the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, gf.nd.gov.  Applications are also available by calling the department’s Bismarck office at 701-328-6300.

Proclamation Signed as a Precaution Against Spread of CWD

The 2007 proclamation establishing guidelines for transporting deer, elk and moose carcasses and carcass parts into North Dakota is now in effect as a precaution against the possible spread of chronic wasting disease into the state.  To date, CWD has not been diagnosed in North Dakota, but has been found in a growing number of locations across North America in recent years.

Hunters are not allowed to transport into North Dakota the whole carcass, or certain carcass parts, of deer, elk, moose or other members of the cervid family from areas within states and provinces with documented occurrences of CWD in wild populations, or from farmed cervid operations within states and provinces that have had farmed cervids diagnosed with CWD.  Only the following portions of the carcass can be transported:

• Meat that is cut and wrapped either commercially or privately.
• Quarters or other portions of meat with no part of the spinal column or head attached.
• Meat that has been boned out.
• Hides with no heads attached.
• Clean (no meat or tissue attached) skull plates with antlers attached.
• Antlers with no meat or tissue attached.
• Upper canine teeth, also known as buglers, whistlers or ivories.
• Finished taxidermy heads.

The following game management units, equivalent wildlife management units, or counties have had free-ranging deer or elk diagnosed with CWD, and importation of harvested elk, white-tailed deer, mule deer, moose or other cervids from these areas are restricted.

• Alberta – Wildlife management units 150, 151, 234.
• Colorado – Game management units 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 42, 45, 46, 49, 51, 52, 53, 57, 58, 59, 69, 74, 84, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 141, 142, 146, 147, 161, 171, 181, 191, 211, 214, 231, 301, 371, 391, 411, 421, 441, 461, 521, 581, 591, 691, 741, 861, 951.

·        Illinois – Counties of Winnebago, Boone, McHenry, DeKalb, Ogle, LaSalle.

·        Kansas – Cheyenne County.

·        Nebraska – Upper Platte, Platte, Plains, Sandhills, Buffalo and Pine Ridge units, which include the counties of Cheyenne, Kimball, Sioux, Scotts Bluff, Morrill, Sheridan, Box Butte, Dawes, Banner, Cherry, Hall, Deuel, Grant, Arthur.

·        New Mexico – White Sands Missile Base (GMU 19) and GMU 34.

·        New York – Any deer taken within the CWD containment areas of Oneida and Madison counties.

·        Saskatchewan – Wildlife management zones 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 24, 25, 29, 43, 46, 47, 50, 68 South and Fort a la Corne Wildlife Management Unit.

·        South Dakota – Prairie units WRD-21A, WRD-27A, WRD-27B; and Black Hills units BHD-BH1, BHD-BD3, BHD-BD4.

·        Utah – 16A, 16B, 16C, 13A, 13B, 8A, 8B, 8C, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D.

·        West Virginia – Any deer taken within the CWD containment zone of Hampshire County.

·        Wisconsin – Any deer registered with a Wisconsin DNR Red Registration Tag from the area designated as the Disease Eradication Zone or Herd Reduction Zone including deer management zones 54B-CWD, 70-CWD, 70A-CWD, 70B-CWD, 70C-CWD, 70D-CWD, 70E-CWD, 70G-CWD, 71-CWD, 73B-CWD, 73E-CWD, 75A-CWD, 75B-CWD, 75C-CWD, 75D-CWD, 76-CWD, 76A-CWD, 76M-CWD, 77A-CWD, 77B-CWD, and 77C-CWD.

·        Wyoming – Deer hunt areas 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 22, 30, 33, 34, 37, 41, 55, 57, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67,70, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 88, 89, 120, 127, 158, 164 or Elk hunt areas 5, 6, 7, 8, 16, 22, 125.

In addition, the following states and provinces have had farmed deer, elk, moose or other cervids diagnosed with CWD, and importation of farmed deer, elk, moose and other cervid carcasses or their parts are restricted: Alberta, Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New York, Oklahoma, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Additional areas will be added as necessary and listed on the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, gf.nd.gov.

Because each state and province has its own set of rules and regulations, hunters should contact the state or province in which they will hunt to obtain more information.

Sharptails, Ruffed Grouse and Partridge Seasons Open Sept. 8

When sharp-tailed grouse and Hungarian partridge seasons open Sept. 8, hunters should expect bird numbers similar to last year, but improved vegetation in the state might make it a little harder to find them.

Both bird species came through winter in good shape, based on reports that spring counts were up slightly from last year.  “Increased vegetation will provide additional escape cover, so hunters will have to work a little harder to locate birds,” said Stan Kohn, North Dakota Game and Fish Department upland game management supervisor.

While the 2007 season opens Sept. 8 for sharptails, partridge and ruffed grouse, sage grouse season does not open until Sept. 24.

The spring sharp-tailed grouse census was up nearly 10 percent statewide, Kohn said, with areas southwest of the Missouri River and the Missouri Coteau region showing the largest increases.

Preliminary results from July and August roadside counts indicate improved numbers in birds and broods per mile, higher average brood size, and an increase in the number of young birds seen on routes compared to adult birds.

Hunters can expect the same for Hungarian partridge.  Rural mail carriers saw more partridge per 1,000 miles this spring, and data gathered by biologists on summer roadside counts show the highest number of birds seen per mile of survey in five years in the southwestern and Missouri Coteau portions of the state.  However, the central and northeastern sections are down slightly from last year, but still better than two years ago.

Ruffed grouse populations tend to run in 8-10 year cycles.  Spring counts in 2006 showed small increases in the number of birds drumming, but 2007 counts were again at the lower end.  The Turtle Mountains in Bottineau and Rolette counties and the Pembina Hills area of Cavalier and Pembina counties should provide hunters with the best opportunities this fall.

The sage grouse population should also be similar to last year.  “Sage grouse tend to move toward water areas with green vegetation, but these may be hard to find in the southwest,” Kohn said.

For further season information and regulations, hunters should consult the North Dakota 2007-08 Small Game Guide.   

Active Military on Leave Can Hunt Small Game, Fish, Trap Without License

A new law allows some active military personnel to hunt small game, fish or trap in North Dakota without a license.

The 2007 North Dakota state legislature passed a bill that allows a resident who is on leave and on active duty with the United States military to hunt small game, fish or trap during the open season without a license.  However, a federal duck stamp is required to hunt waterfowl, and HIP certification is also necessary.

Proof of valid leave papers and a North Dakota operator’s license are required.

Qualified military personnel are asked to contact the state Game and Fish Department for additional details. 

NDGF, COE Continue Missouri River Habitat Improvement Projects

The state Game and Fish Department and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are continuing with year two of a wildlife habitat restoration and enhancement project for species of concern along the Missouri River System in North Dakota.

In late August or early September, the corps will use helicopters to spray herbicides on approximately 85 acres of vegetation, covering portions of three sandbars south of Bismarck on Lake Oahe.  The herbicides are EPA approved for spraying in or adjacent to water, and are intended to kill vegetation on the sandbars.

After the islands are sprayed, the dead vegetation will be removed mechanically by mowing or cutting equipment.  Weather permitting, spraying is scheduled to occur the last week of August, and dead vegetation will be removed this fall or next spring.

Last year, vegetation was removed from 150 acres of sandbars south of Bismarck on Lake Oahe, primarily for two shorebird species – endangered least terns and threatened piping plovers – that depend on bare sandbars for nesting habitat.

Steve Dyke, Game and Fish Department conservation supervisor, said several of the sandbars treated in 2006 had birds nesting on them this summer.  “Most of this year’s spraying is to retreat portions of islands that were sprayed last year,” Dyke said.

Russ Somsen with the corps office in Pierre indicated his agency will continue to monitor the sites for several years to evaluate effectiveness and see if birds use the sandbars that have been treated.

2007 Small Game and Furbearer Regulations Set

North Dakota’s 2007 small game and furbearer regulations have been set and most season structures and bag limits are similar to last year, according to Greg Link, assistant wildlife chief for the state Game and Fish Department.  The only significant changes involve the mountain lion and youth pheasant hunting seasons. 

The mountain lion season is set up in two zones.  Zone 1 includes the portion of North Dakota west of ND Highway 8 from the South Dakota border to the south shore of Lake Sakakawea, and south and west of ND Highway 1804 from the Montana border to a point where ND Highway 1804 lies directly across Lake Sakakawea from ND Highway 8.  Zone 2 is the remainder of the state.

Zone 1 will open Aug. 31 and continue through March 9, 2008, or until a season quota of five lions has been met.  If the quota is reached, the season will close immediately.  The quota includes lions taken by a legally licensed hunter using approved firearms or archery equipment within the designated season.  It does not include lions taken by USDA Wildlife Services, the Game and Fish Department, private landowners in defense of livestock, road killed animals, incidental animals taken by traps or cable devices (snares), for human safety issues, and those taken on Indian land.

Zone 2 is also open Aug. 31 through March 9, 2008.  There is no quota, therefore the season in Zone 2 will not close early. 

The mountain lion season is open only to North Dakota residents.  A furbearer or combination license is required.  Any mountain lion that is taken must be reported to the Game and Fish Department within 12 hours, and the entire animal must be submitted for analysis.  Legally taken animals will be returned to the hunter following analysis.

Any mountain lion other than kittens (lions with visible spots), or females accompanied by kittens, may be taken during the season.  No hunting or pursuing with dogs is allowed until Dec. 1.

Hunters ages 15 and younger are eligible to participate in the youth pheasant hunting season slated for Oct. 6-7.  Previously, the season was held for youth ages 12-16.  The law was changed to allow for the Game and Fish Department to establish a youth pheasant hunting season, and the age requirement of 15 and younger is consistent with the other youth hunting seasons.

In addition, the 2007 North Dakota state legislature passed a law that allows a resident who is on leave and on active duty with the United States military to hunt small game or trap during the season without a license.

Other small game and waterfowl licensing details are similar to last year.

Only North Dakota residents are permitted to hunt waterfowl from Sept. 22-28.  Nonresidents will be allowed to hunt waterfowl in North Dakota beginning Sept. 29.  Other waterfowl season details will be finalized in mid-August in the waterfowl amendment to the small game and furbearer proclamation.

In accordance with state law, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt on Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) areas from Oct. 13-19.

Hunters should refer to the North Dakota 2007-08 Small Game and Furbearer guides (available mid-August) for more details on small game and furbearer seasons.  Waterfowl regulations will be available in late August.