Black Market Whitetail Jerky Kingpin Busted in Tennessee

Josh King, formerly a county deputy in Tennessee, made the classic mistake all traders of illicit goods make: he advertised on Facebook.

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officer Dan Hicks said officials caught King, who is currently working as a bail bondsman, advertising several flavors of the forbidden fare on his Facebook page and then arranged an undercover buy and caught King with his illicit meat in hand.

In Tennessee it is illegal to buy or sell wildlife and wildlife products. Specifically, the USDA doesn’t regulate wildlife products like it does store-bought meats, putting consumers at risk.

However, according to Hicks, without laws like this the entire wild game population might be threatened. “We like to protect that resource,” said Hicks, “and make sure it’s there for the next generation and the next generation.”

If King is found guilty of the single Class A misdemeanor he is charged with he could face a fine of up $2,500 and a year in jail.

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QDMA Urges Hunters in Seven States to Oppose Deer-Breeding Legislation

The Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA) is urging hunters in seven states to oppose the expansion of the deer-breeding industry, which QDMA perceives as a growing threat to wild deer and the deer-hunting heritage. Legislation designed to loosen or dismantle regulatory barriers to white-tailed deer breeding and farming is being considered in Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia.

“There are no benefits for deer hunters in the growth of the captive deer-breeding industry – only risks,” said Kip Adams, QDMA’s Director of Education & Outreach and a certified wildlife biologist. “It is QDMA’s mission to protect the future of white-tailed deer and our hunting heritage, and we oppose anything that puts those at risk.”

In opposing the proliferation of “deer breeding,” QDMA is referring to captive deer facilities where controlled, artificial breeding technology is used primarily to produce whitetail bucks with enormous, often grotesque antlers – an industry that includes sales of semen, artificially impregnated does, and live bucks to other breeders or to captive deer shooting facilities. Current estimates suggest there are nearly 10,000 deer breeding operations in North America, and the number is growing as the industry pushes to expand into areas where it was historically not legal.

“Some argue this is an innocent endeavor with no negative impacts to wild deer or the everyday deer hunter. As CEO of North America’s leading whitetail conservation organization, I emphatically and unapologetically disagree,” said Brian Murphy, QDMA’s Chief Executive Officer. “Not only does this industry undermine the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation in which wildlife is a public resource, it also threatens the health of wild deer and the public’s perception of hunting.”

The distribution map of chronic wasting disease (CWD) – a fatal disease of deer and elk – suggests the disease likely arrived in several new states through transportation of live deer, either legally or illegally, and not through natural deer movements. Legalizing deer breeding in new areas increases the incentive for illegal transportation of untested animals at a time when these human-aided movements must be stopped. Transporting any captive whitetails is risky, as there is no acceptable and practical live-animal test  for CWD. Once CWD appears in wild deer in a new area, slowing the spread of the disease requires costly investigation, testing and surveillance efforts for many years and often requires drastic reductions in deer populations. There is currently no known way to decontaminate an environment once CWD is present.

In more than 40 states, regulatory authority over captive deer facilities is held by state agriculture agencies, or shared between agriculture and wildlife agencies. QDMA recommends that wildlife agencies have sole responsibility because they have more experience with wildlife species and wildlife disease issues, and they fully understand what is at stake with regard to transmission of diseases like CWD to free-ranging deer.

“QDMA’s current effort is to halt expansion of the deer-breeding industry,” said Adams. “We also want sole jurisdiction for existing facilities to remain with or be reassigned to state wildlife agencies. Considering the implications for our hunting heritage, we can’t afford to allow this industry to expand. The ramifications of being wrong are simply too great.”

QDMA is currently urging resident hunters to oppose existing or potential legislation in the following states:

• Georgia: House Bill 1043 – Legalizes the importation of live whitetails into Georgia for breeding purposes and creates a permitting system for deer-breeding operations, all under the jurisdiction of the state Department of Agriculture. Current status: House second-readers as of February 22.
• Indiana – House Bill 1265 – Provides for the licensing and operations of hunting preserves on which farm-bred, captive deer and elk will be hunted. Current Status – Senator David Long (President Pro Tempore) refused to hear the bill. It remains in committee.
• Mississippi – Senate Bills 2554 and 2555 – Legalizes importation of captive deer, semen and embryos and authorizes deer breeding facilities, under the jurisdiction of the state agriculture department. Current Status – Both bills referred to Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Committee on February 20.
• Missouri – House Bill 1375 – Adds deer to the definition of “livestock” for the purposes of the state sales and use tax law, meat inspection law, Missouri Livestock Disease Control and Eradication Law, and the Missouri Livestock Marketing Law. Current Status – House second-readers as of February 22.
• North Carolina – Currently at the proposal stage; no bill number yet.  The spoken intent is to loosen regulations to allow for expansion of the captive deer industry. A QDMA staff member will attend a board meeting with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission in Raleigh on March 7 on this topic.
• Tennessee – House Bill 3164 – Present law classifies white-tailed deer as Class IV wildlife, which may only be possessed by zoos, temporary exhibitors, and rehabilitation facilities. This bill adds authorization for possession of white-tailed deer by breeding facilities that receive a permit from the Department of Agriculture to breed or ranch such livestock for purposes determined by the Department. Current Status – Placed on calendar for Agriculture Committee for March 6.
• West Virginia – Senate Bill 421 – Captive Cervid Farming Act – Transfers regulatory authority over captive white-tailed deer facilities from the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) to the Department of Agriculture.  Current Status – referred to Rules Committee on February 17.

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Bass Pro Shops is a Natural Setting for a Wedding

Most people have their wedding in the summer. Most people also have their wedding in a chapel, but not this Tennessee couple. Jonathan and Jennifer Honeycutt decided to proclaim their love for the outdoors while exchanging vows of love for one another.

This was probably the first time shoppers witnessed a Bass Pro Shops store that was host to a wedding party. The groom said this location was just ideal. “You get the waterfall in the background. Fish swimming around. Decorations are just perfect.” Right after the couple got engaged, they called the store to see if it was possible to host their wedding there, and lucky for them, Bass Pro Shops gave them their blessing.

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Up to $17,000 Reward for Information on Two Bald Eagle Killings in Tennessee

Approximately one year ago, in February, 2011, a mature bald eagle was shot and killed in Bledsoe County, Tennessee, about one mile east of the intersection of Tennessee State Highway 101 and Big Springs Gap Road.  A few weeks later, about 30 miles away, a second mature bald eagle was shot and killed in Cumberland County, Tennessee, east of Crossville, in Crab Orchard.

The eagle was discovered near the Crab Orchard School, adjacent to Main Street, close to the Old Easley Swimming Hole.

The first person who provides information resulting in the successful prosecution of the person or persons responsible for both of these crimes will be eligible to receive a $17,000 reward.  For information resulting in the successful prosecution of the person or persons responsible for one of these crimes, an $8,500 reward is offered.

Bald eagles are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, both federal wildlife statutes. Violations of these statutes carry maximum criminal penalties of up to $100,000 and/or one year in federal prison

Anyone with information concerning the eagle found in Bledsoe County is asked to call Special Agent Bo Stone at 865-692-4024, or Bledsoe County Wildlife Officer Mark Patterson with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency at 800-262-6704.

Anyone with information concerning the eagle found in Cumberland County is asked to call Special Agent John Rayfield at 615-736-5532, or Cumberland County Wildlife Officer Casey Mullen with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency at 800-262-6704.

Tennessee currently hosts about 140 bald eagle breeding pairs, according to Scott Somershoe, ornithologist with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

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Take Your Kids Hunting in Gatlinburg

With all the beauty and natural wonder of Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, it is not surprising that the pretty town of Gatlinburg has become one of the most sought-after vacation spots for families looking to get away from it all.

On the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are lots of fun outdoor activities. When you take your kids hunting in Gatlinburg’s beautiful surroundings, you can teach them in some of America’s most pristine wilderness.  Book a comfortable cabin right in the woods and enjoy some family time on your own out in nature.

Teach the Kids about Hunting

Gatlinburg is ideal for family hunting trips. There is a variety of game in the Cherokee National Forest, including deer, grouse and wild turkey. Before heading out, it is important to note that certain areas of the forest are closed to hunting, and a valid Tennessee or North Carolina hunting license is required.

There is also hunting in the nearby Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests across the state line in North Carolina, where a North Carolina hunting license will be needed.

Kids under the age of 10 do not need a hunter safety certificate, but they must always be accompanied by an adult over age 21.

The Tennessee Hunting and Trapping Guide is a great resource for information about hunting in this area, including the dates of the various hunting seasons, bag limits and necessary permits and licenses. This guide can be found at any sporting goods store in Gatlinburg.

Other Things to Do in Gatlinburg

If the kids are done with hunting and want something else to do for the day, there are plenty of great attractions and other outdoor activities all around the Gatlinburg region. There’s excellent whitewater rafting for kids over the age of 12, and more than 600 miles of marked trails for hiking. Young anglers will find hundreds of places to fish in the region’s lakes and streams. Fun urban attractions right in Gatlinburg include bumper cars, go-karts, mini-golf and the famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, with an aquarium, a theater and a “fun zone.”

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg

With all the natural beauty surrounding you, the best place to stay is in one of the hundreds of excellent Gatlinburg cabin rentals in the woods. There are plenty of authentic log cabins available, many with modern amenities like satellite television and hot tubs. A vacation cottage rental in the woods will offer gorgeous views across the Smoky Mountains and plenty of room for the kids to run and play, not to mention the privacy and relaxation of being surrounded by nature.

Every kid deserves to spend time learning about the joys and wonders of the great outdoors, and the outdoors doesn’t get any greater than here in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Start planning today to take your kids hunting in Gatlinburg on a trip that will create wonderful memories to last a lifetime!

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NWTF Invites Media to National Convention and Sport Show

Members of the media are invited to register for a media badge granting complimentary admission to the 2012 NWTF National Convention and Sport Show Feb. 9-12 at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn.

Media badges will provide access to more than 650 booths with the latest outdoor gear from leading brands, the NWTF Grand National Calling Championships, taxidermy exhibits and various seminars and workshops led by top experts in their fields.

The theme for the 36th annual NWTF event is: “Hunters: Champions of Conservation.”

Tickets can be purchased for special meals and events, including the NWTF Awards Banquet on Feb. 11 featuring U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia as keynote speaker and performances by country music stars Ricky Skaggs and Ashton Shepherd.  Lt. General Buck Bedard, USMC, will speak Feb. 11 at the Winchester Breakfast. Country and gospel artists Daves Highway will perform at the Feb. 12 Remington Breakfast.

To register for a media badge, please contact John Brasier at jbrasier@nwtf.net or (803) 637-7667. Those who register by Feb. 1 will receive a personalized NWTF badge. Registration also will be available on site at the NWTF media room.

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MidwayUSA Sponsors NWTF Convention and Sport Show

Edgefield, SC — MidwayUSA, the catalog and Internet retailer, will showcase its role as a major champion of conservation by sponsoring the National Wild Turkey Federation’s 2012 National Convention and Sport Show, Feb. 9-12 at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tenn.

Fittingly, the theme of the 36th annual NWTF convention is: “Hunters: Champions of Conservation.” MidwayUSA has now sponsored the NWTF National Convention and Sport Show for three consecutive years. About 43,000 people attended in 2011.

“This is an event that outdoor enthusiasts circle on their calendar with great anticipation each year,” said George C. Thornton, NWTF CEO. “We’re grateful to have the support of MidwayUSA, which shares our dedication to the conservation of North America’s wildlife populations and habitat, in providing a wonderful experience for our convention.”

Each February, NWTF volunteers, members, staff, partners and outdoors enthusiasts gather at the NWTF convention to celebrate the NWTF’s accomplishments and plan for the future. This year’s show will feature more than 650 booths with performances from entertainers Ricky Skaggs and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, exciting competition in the NWTF Grand National Calling Championships and more. Check www.nwtf.org for more information.

NWTF members and active military personnel will receive free admission to the expo floor with their NWTF membership card or military ID.

Attendees interested in booking rooms at the reduced NWTF rate should book immediately. Opryland’s reserved block of rooms will be released to the general public on Jan. 18. Hotel guests receive free parking.

The NWTF is the leader in upland wildlife habitat conservation in North America. A nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage, the NWTF and its volunteers work closely with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies and other partners.

Through these dynamic partnerships, the NWTF and its members helped restore wild turkey populations throughout North America, spending more than $372 million to conserve 17 million acres of habitat.

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SportDOG Supports Whitetails Unlimited with Lurelogik Donation

Knoxville, Tennessee – SportDOG Brand, a leading manufacturer of sporting dog training gear and accessories, has expanded its support of conservation causes with a donation of Lurelogik hunting scent products to Whitetails Unlimited.

By using the Lurelogik spray timer dispenser or remote control dispenser, hunters and wildlife observers can increase their odds of getting closer to deer.

“Our remote systems have numerous applications beyond our broad line of electronic dog training products, and this is just one more way we can benefit hunters and help another conservation group in its mission,” said Eleanor Marshall of SportDOG Brand.

WTU will use the Lurelogik systems as a means of fund-raising, according to Kevin Devault, the group’s national funding director.

Whitetails Unlimited, formed in 1982, is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to the betterment of the whitetail herd and wildlife habitat. The group focuses on conservation, education and preservation of the hunting tradition. For more information, visit www.whitetailsunlimited.com.

SportDOG Brand’s support of WTU is one of many initiatives included in the company’s Conservation Fund. To find out more, visit www.sportdog.com.

SportDOG Brand of Knoxville, Tennessee, is a manufacturer of electronic dog training gear and accessories. Product lines include remote training collars, no-bark collars, in-ground fence systems and remote tracking systems. The company also carries Lucky Dog training equipment,Tracker dog-locating products and Canine Athlete nutritional products.

Contact:
Eleanor Marshall, SportDOG Brand (865) 218-1533

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Tennessee Elk Permit to Be Auctioned on E-bay by TWRF

Don’t miss this last chance at a 2011 TN Elk Tag!

Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency recently announced the issuance of 5 Special Elk Take Permits for the upcoming 2011 hunting season. Four of the special permits were issued through the TWRA quota hunt drawing system. These permits were awarded to Richard Rutherford of Walland, Terrell Holt of Columbia, John Alston of Knoxville, and Jody Moore of Loudon.

The remaining special elk take permit was awarded to a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization through the state’s Request For Proposals (RFP) process. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, Inc. (TWRF) was selected as the recipient of this year’s NPO tag. The TWRF will auction off the tag to the highest bidder through an e-bay auction Thursday, July 14 to Saturday, July 23, 2011. The proceeds from the sale of this special elk tag will go to benefit the elk restoration program. TWRF is partnering with Bill Swan, an experienced e-bay seller and active member of the Chattanooga Chapter of Safari Club International (SCI), on the promotion and sale of this Elk Tag.

The elk hunt will take place at the North Cumberland WMA in East Tennessee from Monday, October 17th to Friday, October 21st of 2011. This will be the third year for the Tennessee elk hunt, and the successful bidder has very good odds for killing a mature bull elk. More information concerning the hunt will be listed in the e-bay auction. Search “Tennessee Elk Permit” on e-bay to find the listing after July 10th.

The North Cumberland WMA will be sub-divided into five (5) Elk Hunting Zones (EHZ). Each hunter will be designated an EHZ through a handheld drawing conducted at a TWRA Region IV location (location, dates and times TBA). The purchaser of this elk permit will be required to purchase an elk license before participating in the hunt. The resident elk license (Type 256) is $27.00, and a non-resident elk license (Type 257) is $300.00. Sportsman and Lifetime license holders are exempt from having to purchase the elk license. All other licenses and permits to hunt big game in Tennessee are required.

TWRF is proud to be a part of this success story, where an animal reintroduction has been successful enough to allow for management through hunting. We look forward to many more successful hunts in years to come.

For additional information about the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, go to www.twrf.net. TWRF is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting habitat conservation, responsible land stewardship, and Tennessee’s hunting and fishing heritage for the benefit of Tennessee’s wildlife and it’s outdoor enthusiasts.

Contact:

Andy Edwards, Programs and Events Director

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation

615-831-9311 x 214

aedwards@twrf.net

www.twrf.net

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USA’s Sporting Clay Series Heads to New York

Nashville, TN   The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) conservation based hunting and fishing organization for Union members, retirees and their families will host its inaugural New York Sporting Clays Shoot, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 9 at Suffolk County Skeet, Trap & Sporting Clays, located at 165 Gerard Road in Yaphank.

Bringing together Union members, leaders, contractors, family members and friends for a fun-filled day of outdoor recreation, the sporting clays shoots also raise imperative funding to support the USA’s nationwide conservation programs such as Boots on the Ground and promote the importance of building a sustainable country to the more than 400,000 Union workers in New York.

Individual shooter registration starts at $125 (lunch, shells and targets provided), and premium and classic sponsorship opportunities are available from $500 – $5,000. Deadline for shooter registration is Tuesday, July 5.

In 2011, the USA will host more than 20 sporting clays and trap shoots in 17 states across the country including Alaska, California, Nevada, Kansas, Missouri, Washington D.C. and more.

For more information or to register, visit www.unionsportsmen.org/events.

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) is a conservation based hunting and fishing organization for Union members, retirees and their families. The USA works to expand and improve hunting and fishing access and wildlife habitat throughout North America. For more information, visit www.unionsportsmen.org or www.facebook.com/unionsportsmen.

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