New England Fisheries and Wildlife News
BackWoods Sportsman OutDoors mission as a fishing guide service as well as a New England fishing informational web site that fishes the great waters of
3/9/10
Bart Jacob Memorial Turkey Calling Contest, April 17
If you are 7 to 15 years old and can use a turkey call to cluck, yelp, purr, or do the Kee-Kee Run, you will have a chance to show off your turkey calling skills at the 5th Annual Bart Jacob Memorial Youth Turkey Calling Contest in Pawlet, Vermont on Saturday, April 17.
Story
3/9/10
Learn Apple Tree Pruning March 20th in Dummerston
Apple trees provide food for a wide variety of wildlife, but the trees need pruning to maintain their productivity. You can learn about apple tree pruning at a free workshop on Saturday, March 20.
Story
3/3/10
Anglers are Gearing Up for Vermont’s Spring Trout Fishing
Vermont’s opening day of trout fishing is a day that many anglers look forward to each spring. This year trout fishing begins Saturday, April 10; anglers are already gearing up for another year of great brook, brown and rainbow trout fishing.
Story
3/1/10
Vermont’s Nongame Wildlife Fund Seeks Taxpayer Support
After years of absence, common loons, peregrine falcons and ospreys are now nesting again in Vermont, and their numbers are increasing. In fact, they have done so well, they are no longer listed as endangered or threatened in Vermont. Their successful comeback can be credited to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department which is now seeking individual taxpayer help in supporting work on other aquatic and terrestrial species.
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2/26/10
Ice Fishing is Good But Be Cautious
Ice fishing has been excellent in recent weeks, but the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is urging anyone venturing onto the ice to use caution.
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2/23/10
Feeding Deer Can Kill With Kindness
There are right ways and wrong ways to feed deer. In Vermont, the right ways are legal, and the wrong ways are illegal. In mid-late winter, many deer enthusiasts become concerned that deer are suffering from winter stress and low food supplies. Some people may be inclined to start feeding deer foods such as bagged corn or grain, which is illegal.
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2/23/10
March 15 is Application Deadline for Shooting Range Grants
Shooting clubs, sportsmen’s groups and municipalities involved in the improvement or maintenance of shooting ranges, including archery ranges, are reminded they have until 4:30 p.m. on March 15, 2010 to submit their applications for new funding grant from the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
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2/12/10
Special Snow Goose Harvest Opportunity
Hunters will once again have the opportunity to pursue snow geese this spring as a result of a special management action referred to as a “Conservation Order” allowed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and adopted by the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board.
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2/11/10
Deer Meetings Begin March 23rd
If you have an interest in Vermont's white-tailed deer you will want to attend one of the five annual public meetings being held in March by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department to discuss the deer herd. The meetings begin March 23rd in Springfield and Orleans.
Story
2/11/10
Angler Catches New Record Walleye in Vermont
Vermont has the best walleye fishing in New England, and Richard Levesque’s latest entry in Vermont’s fish record program underscores that point. Levesque shattered the previous state record for walleye on February 10, when he caught a walleye weighing 14.55 lbs. through the ice on Lake Champlain.
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2/10/10
Let’s Go Fishing Instructor Training
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s Let’s Go Fishing program is hosting its annual day-long Instructor Training Workshop on Saturday, March 13, 2010. This year’s workshop will be at the Edward F. Kehoe Conservation Camp in Castleton. The day’s events begin with coffee and registration at 8:30 a.m.
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2/5/10
Chronic Wasting Disease Remains a Threat to VT Deer
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) remains a serious threat to Vermont’s deer population, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. CWD is a contagious neurological disease affecting deer, elk and moose. It causes a characteristic spongy degeneration of the brains of infected animals resulting in emaciation, abnormal behavior, loss of bodily functions and death.
Story
2/4/10
Vermont Moose Hunting Applications Are Available
Vermont moose hunting permit applications are available on the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s website (www.vtfishandwildlife.com) and at license agents statewide. Fish and Wildlife now has an online application that makes it easy to apply.
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2/2/10
Conservation Camp Applications Are Available
If you are 12 to 14 years old and want to learn about Vermont's wildlife and gain outdoor skills next summer, consider attending one of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department's Green Mountain Conservation Camps.
Story
2/1/10
Wildlife Officials Advise Residents of Bat Activity
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is once again advising people who live near caves and mines to expect unusual levels of bat activity as a result of the White Nose Syndrome (WNS) that is afflicting hibernating bats. Department officials say reports of sick bats have been coming in most recently from residents in Johnson, Vermont.
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1/28/10
State launches new support for shooting ranges
A new grant program dedicated to Vermont’s shooting ranges may mean that hunters and recreational shooters will soon have more access to safe places to shoot.
Story
1/26/10
Worcesters-to-Kingdom linkage conservation project launches
Spearheaded by the Northeast Regional Center of the National Wildlife Federation and the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, a conservation project designed to provide wildlife habitat protection for an important area of northern Vermont kicked off Jan. 20 in Greensboro. More than a dozen diverse stakeholders attended the launch of the “Staying Connected – Worcesters-to-Northeast Kingdom” project – a 30-town initiative designed to safeguard key wildlife habitats within a large area of land inhabited by creatures big and small, from moose and black bear to warblers and salamanders.
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1/26/10
Three Arrested for Big Game Violations
Vermont State Game Wardens have arrested three Northeast Kingdom people for violating big game hunting regulations.
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1/22/10
Governor Announces Youth Hunting Memories Contest Winners
Governor Douglas and Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Wayne Laroche recognized the winners of Vermont’s 2009 Youth Hunting Memories Contest on Sunday, January 17th at the Yankee Classic Sportsman’s Show in Essex Junction.
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1/21/10
2010 Vermont Angler Survey – 2nd Mailing
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department mailed a survey to randomly selected anglers in early January and is asking those who didn’t respond to please do so.
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1/15/10
Anglers Discover Alewife in Lake Carmi
North Hero anglers Mike Murdock and Dave St. Hilaire headed to Lake Carmi on New Year’s Day hoping to land a few nice walleye, but in the process they discovered something that state fisheries biologists say raises concerns about illegal fish movements in Vermont.
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1/14/09
Fish and Wildlife Board Meeting
5:00PM until 9:00PM at Skylight conference room, 6/7 North Building, 103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT
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1/14/09
3rd Annual Turkey Calling Contest
3rd Annual Bart Jacobs Memorial Turkey Calling Contest
The National Wild Turkey Federation will be putting on it’s 3rd annual Bart Jacobs Memorial Turkey Calling Contest. Contest will be held at the Yankee Sportsmen's Classic Show in Essex Jct VT, Saturday January 16 at 10:00 am. Register at the Wild Turkey Federation booth.
Story
12/28/09
Weathersfield Men Charged With Fish & Wildlife Violations
A father and son from Weathersfield, Vermont were charged on December 27, with several violations of Fish and Wildlife laws, and a third person may face charges as well.
Story
12/28/09
2010 Vermont Angler Survey Underway
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department announced that on January 6, 2010 a questionnaire asking anglers about their fishing habits and opinions on a wide range of fisheries management issues will be mailed to 4,500 Vermont resident and 900 nonresident anglers.
Story
12/22/09
Fish & Wildlife Improves Harvest Information Program Registration
If you hunt migratory game birds, you must register with the Federal Harvest Information Program each year. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is providing migratory game bird hunters with an improved registration process in effect for 2010. Vermont, like other states, will forward the required information to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to help in managing migratory game birds.
Story
12/21/09
Ice Fishing Safety Reminders from VT F&W
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has some ice fishing safety reminders for people venturing out onto the ice.
Story
12/21/09
Vermont’s Big Game Plan for 2010-2020 is Available
Vermont’s new Big Game Management Plan for 2010-2020 is now available.
Story
12/16/09
January Can Bring Great Ice Fishing Opportunities
Vermont offers great ice fishing in lakes throughout the state, and the action normally is great beginning in mid-January, depending on the weather. Vermont Fish & Wildlife recommends at least six inches of solid ice for safe ice fishing.
Story
12/11/09
Two Arrested in Bennington on Illegal Deer Charges
A father and son face charges in Vermont after allegedly being involved in deer poaching activities in New York, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
12/3/09
Youth Hunting Memories Contest Reminder
The Vermont Big Game Trophy Club and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department remind youth hunters they are still seeking submissions for the third annual Youth Hunting Memories Contest.
Story
11/25/09
Vermont Muzzleloader and 2nd Archery Deer Seasons, Dec. 5-13
Vermont’s muzzleloader deer season and the second part of the archery deer season are December 5-13 this year. Hunters are reporting seeing more large, older bucks due to the antler restriction that began in 2005.
Story
11/18/09
Deadline for Watershed Grants is Dec. 4
The application period is now open for the 2010 Vermont Watershed Grants Program which funds projects for the protection, restoration and enjoyment of the state's watersheds. Applications are due to the Vermont Watershed Grants office by December 4, the Friday one week after Thanksgiving.
Story
11/16/09
Chimney Point Fishing Access Area Closed Indefinitely
The Chimney Point Fishing Access Area is closed indefinitely due to safety concerns related to the Lake Champlain Bridge.
Story
11/16/09
Tinmouth Channel WMA Public Meeting Dec. 1
The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR), Rutland District Stewardship Team is sponsoring an open house for the public to view and discuss the results of the natural resource inventories and assessments that have recently been completed on the Wildlife Management Area in preparation of the development of the long range management plan.
Story
11/9/09
Poaching Tip Line Helps in Wildlife Law Enforcement
Vermont State Game Wardens are constantly striving to curtail wildlife poaching, but their job is challenging because they can’t be everywhere. Wardens have five to seven towns in their own districts, and they often are covering neighboring warden districts due to work schedules. A telephone tip line called “Operation Game Thief” enables you to help if you know of a poaching incident.
Story
11/5/09
Vermont Moose Hunters Had a Successful Season
Vermont moose hunters had a successful hunting season according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
Story
10/29/09
Vermont Bat Cave Research Assisted by Wisconsin DNR
Wildlife scientists are trying to learn more about white-nose syndrome (WNS) and how it infects bats. Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and New York Department of Environmental Conservation biologists received help from Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources on October 27, when Wisconsin donated 79 little brown bats to be kept in two Vermont abandoned mines this winter.
Story
10/29/09
2009 New Hampshire Moose Hunt a Success
Wildlife scientists are trying to learn more about white-nose syndrome (WNS) and how it infects bats. Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and New York Department of Environmental Conservation biologists received help from Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources on October 27, when Wisconsin donated 79 little brown bats to be kept in two Vermont abandoned mines this winter.
Story
10/28/09
Hunters are Urged to Wear Orange
Some choose to wear pink to promote breast cancer awareness. Some choose to wear red to fight HIV/AIDs. Hunters also must decide what color to wear when they go afield, but only blaze orange has a proven safety record.
Story
10/27/09
Hunters Reminded of Rules on Importing Deer, Elk
Hunters traveling outside Vermont to hunt deer or elk need to keep in mind the regulation designed to protect Vermont's wild deer from chronic wasting disease, according to a reminder from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
10/22/09
Two Men Arrested for Deer Poaching in VT and NY
Two Fair Haven, Vermont men have been arrested in Vermont and New York in connection with a two-week long deer poaching spree in West Haven, Vermont and Hampton, New York.
Story
10/21/09
326 Moose Taken in Vermont’s Moose Hunt So Far
Vermont moose hunters had reported taking 326 moose as of October 20th, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
Story
10/16/09
Deadline for Watershed Grants is Dec. 4
Applications are available for the 2010 Vermont Watershed Grants Program to fund projects that help Vermonters protect, restore and enjoy the state's watersheds. Applications are due to the Vermont Watershed Grants office by Friday, December 4.
Story
10/15/09
Vermont’s Youth Hunting Essay Contest
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and the Vermont Big Game Trophy Club are seeking submissions for the third annual Youth Hunting Memories Contest.
Story
10/14/09
Clean Vessel Act Grants Available
Federal grant funds are available for projects that will help improve boating sewage pump-out facilities in Vermont according to an announcement from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
10/14/09
Vermont Deer Hunters Look Forward to a Good Season
Vermont hunters are optimistic about the upcoming November rifle and December muzzleloader deer seasons -- and with good reason, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Vermont has more older, bigger bucks after a regulation was enacted in 2005, protecting many yearling bucks.
Story
10/14/09
Biological Deer Check Stations Open Nov. 7-8
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department will be conducting 25 biological deer check stations on Vermont’s Youth Deer Hunting Weekend, November 7 and 8, to collect information on the age and health of Vermont deer.
Story
10/8/09
Waterfowl Hunting Starts Saturday
Vermont’s regular duck hunting season starts Saturday in most of the state.
Story
10/6/09
7 Charged, 2 Pending Charges in Deer Baiting Investigation
State game wardens conducted a raid of 11 deer stands in Moretown on Sunday evening, October 4.
Story
10/6/09
Lake Champlain Water Use Advisory Lifted
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department announces that all temporary water use restrictions associated with the Lamoille River sea lamprey control activities will be lifted for all areas of Lake Champlain surrounding the Lamoille River, effective at Noon Wednesday, October 7.
Story
10/1/09
Muzzleloader Antlerless Deer Permit Winners Announced
The winners of Vermont’s muzzleloader season antlerless deer permits are listed on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s website (vtfishandwildlife.com).
Story
9/30/09
Lamoille River Water Use Advisory Goes Into Effect
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department announced that the Lake Champlain sea lamprey control team is scheduled to treat the Lamoille River with the lampricide, TFM, on Thursday October 1.
Story
9/30/09
Big Game Reporting Stations Listed on VT Fish &Wildlife’s Website
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has made it easier for hunters to locate big game reporting stations by adding a map of the state and list on their website (vtfishandwildlife.com) under “Items of Special Interest.”
Story
9/29/09
Lamoille River Lamprey Control Postponed
The sea lamprey control effort planned for Wednesday, September 30, on the lower Lamoille River has been postponed due to recent rain and resulting high water, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
9/25/09
Lamprey Control Scheduled for Lamoille River
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department announced today that the Lake Champlain sea lamprey control team is scheduled to begin treatment of the Lamoille River on September 30, with the lampricide, TFM.
Story
9/23/09
Vermont Hunter Education is Now Online
The Digital Age is the only age many young people have ever known, which means many potential new hunters are more comfortable with computers than books. In response, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is pleased to offer an alternative to the hunter education manual and workbook: an online course for basic firearm education.
Story
9/23/09
Biologists Observing Effects of Bat Disease
Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department biologists are monitoring bat populations as they return to caves and mines this fall, and they are discovering dramatic losses in bat numbers.
Story
9/17/09
Fish & Wildlife Asks for Photos of Vermont Deer
Vermont Fish & Wildlife Commissioner Wayne Laroche is asking people who observe deer in Vermont to send in their best digital photos for posting on the Fish & Wildlife Department’s website.
Story
9/16/09
Vermont’s Archery Deer Season is Attracting More Hunters
Hunters are enthusiastic about Vermont’s upcoming October 3-25 and December 5-13 archery deer hunting season, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
9/16/09
Eighth Annual Dead Creek Wildlife Day Is Oct. 3
If you enjoy wildlife be sure to make plans to attend the eighth annual Dead Creek Wildlife Day in Addison, Vermont on Saturday, October 3.
Story
9/16/09
Grouse and Woodcock Seasons Coming Soon
A quiet walk down a hidden woods road, bright fall foliage coloring the canopy overhead and the crisp, cool air of an early morning -- these are just some of the elements of a great Vermont upland gamebird hunting experience. Hoping to see the dramatic flush of a grouse or woodcock is, of course, another reason hunters try to get out into Vermont woodlands every chance they get during October and November.
Story
9/9/09
F&W Facilitates Moose Hunt for Dustin
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department with the assistance of sportswriter Lawrence Pyne has found a legal way for Dustin, a child with a life-threatening disease, to hunt for moose in Vermont this fall.
Story
9/8/09
All Young Hunters May Participate in Vermont Youth Hunts
Nonresident young hunters may now participate in Vermont’s special youth hunt weekends for deer and turkey. Vermont’s legislative statute governing youth deer and turkey hunts was amended to include nonresidents as well as residents, effective July 1, 2009.
Story
9/1/09
Vermont Updates its List of Rare Wild Plants
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has updated the statewide list of rare wild plants.
Story
8/26/09
Controlled Waterfowl Hunt Application Deadline is Sept. 21
Applications are available for controlled waterfowl hunting permits to be used at two Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department wildlife management areas. Interested hunters must apply by Monday, September 21, 2009.
Story
8/26/09
Vermont’s Migratory Bird Hunting Seasons Are Announced
Vermont’s migratory bird hunting laws for 2009 are now available on Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s website (www.vtfishandwildlife.com) and from license agents throughout Vermont.
Story
8/20/09
Missisquoi Muskie Restoration Gets a Major Boost
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s Lake Champlain muskie restoration effort got a major boost Wednesday, August 19, when 10,000 six-inch long muskie were stocked in the Missisquoi River in Swanton.
Story
8/20/09
Vermont Antlerless Deer Application Deadline is Thursday, Aug. 27
The deadline to apply for a Vermont antlerless deer hunting permit is Thursday, August 27. The Fish & Wildlife Department is asking hunters to help by applying on-line to keep data entry time and costs to a minimum.
Story
8/13/09
August 21, an Evening to Learn About Bats
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is helping private landowners manage and enhance Indiana bat habitat on their lands by providing funding through the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). One of the program’s main goals is to provide opportunities to learn about Indiana bats to the public.
Story
8/6/09
Vermont Moose Hunt Auction Nets Over $23,000 for Wildlife Education
Vermont’s third annual auction of five moose hunting permits closed on August 4, with more than $23,000 taken in to help fund Fish & Wildlife educational programs, such as the Green Mountain Conservation Camps for 12 to 16 year old youths.
Story
8/6/09
Boating Marina Grants Announced
Improvements in boating infrastructure in Vermont are possible with help from recently announced grants available through the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. The deadline to apply for these grants is September 25, 2009.
Story
8/5/09
Public Meeting Aug. 19 on Proposed Management Plan for State Lands
New management plans are being developed for three parcels of state land in Holland, Norton, Warner’s Grant and Warren’s Gore. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation are holding an “open house” public meeting on Wednesday, August 19, at the Brighton Town Hall to gather input before drafting the management plan.
Story
8/3/09
Take Hunter Education Now to Go Hunting this Fall
With hunting seasons just around the corner, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is urging new hunters to sign up now for a hunter education class. Anyone who has never taken the course or had a hunting license from any state must take the course before obtaining a hunting license.
Story
8/3/09
Peregrine Falcon Nesting Cliffs Reopened for Hikers
Vermont Fish & Wildlife has reopened the nine cliff tops and overlooks previously closed to hiking to protect nesting peregrine falcons.
Story
8/3/09
Public Meeting Aug. 6 – Restoring the Missisquoi River
Restoring the Missisquoi River to a natural flow by removing the no longer used Swanton Dam would improve the resident fishery and be an economic benefit to the local community, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
8/3/09
Volunteers Needed for Turkey Brood Survey
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is again seeking help in determining this spring’s turkey nesting success by asking volunteers to record wild turkey sightings during August using the department’s web-based survey.
Story
7/31/09
Illegal Camp on State Land Leads to Arrest for Marijuana Cultivation
State Game Wardens arrested a Duxbury woman and her 33-year old son Monday after an investigation stemming from a state land trespassing complaint.
Story
7/30/09
Lake St. Catherine Access Ramp Improvements Rescheduled
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s proposed ramp improvements for the Lake St. Catherine Fishing Access Area have been rescheduled for April 2010.
Story
7/27/09
Two Arrested in Rochester for Deer Poaching and Marijuana Growing
State Game Wardens arrested a man and woman in Rochester Sunday, July 26, in what started as a deer poaching investigation, but resulted in a search warrant being executed and marijuana growing operation being discovered.
Story
7/24/09
Lake St. Catherine Fishing Access to be Closed for Repairs
The Fish & Wildlife Department’s Lake St. Catherine Access Area will be closed for repairs to the boat ramp starting August 3rd.
Story
7/22/09
Lake Champlain FIsh and Wildlife Management Cooperative
The Strategic Plan, which was prepared by the Cooperative’s Fisheries Technical Committee, provides a framework for implementing the Cooperative’s coordinated fisheries management programs. It outlines fish community goals and objectives and describes the role of each of the agencies. University of Vermont Professor Ellen Marsden, Ph.D., led the Lake Champlain Cooperative's Technical Committee in developing the new Strategic Plan. According to Dr. Marsden, “this plan outlines the guiding principles for the management of Lake Champlain's fishery resources, and establishes priorities for protection and restoration of fish populations and their habitat".
Story
7/21/09
All Young Hunters May Participate in Vermont Youth Hunts
Nonresident young hunters may now participate in Vermont’s special youth hunt weekends for deer and turkey. Vermont’s legislative statute governing youth deer and turkey hunts was amended to include nonresidents as well as residents, effective July 1, 2009.
Story
7/20/09
Waterfowl Meetings -- Aug. 4, Whitehall, NY -- Aug. 5, Burlington, VT
Public meetings on the status of waterfowl populations and waterfowl hunting seasons for Lake Champlain in New York and Vermont will be held Tuesday, August 4, in Whitehall, New York, and Wednesday, August 5, in Burlington, Vermont. The annual meetings are being held by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
7/17/09
Proposed Clyde River Fishing Regulation Changes to be Discussed July 29
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department will hold a public information meeting to present a proposal for fishing regulation changes on the Clyde River with a goal of benefitting landlocked salmon.
Story
7/16/09
September Canada Goose and Youth Waterfowl Hunts Set
September dates for Vermont’s resident Canada goose hunting season and the youth waterfowl hunt have been set by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Board.
Story
7/15/09
Public Meetings on Draft Big Game Plan, July 20 and 22
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department reminds us that it is holding two public meetings to discuss the Draft Big Game Plan on Monday, July 20 in Montpelier and Wednesday, July 22 in Rutland.
Story
7/14/09
Warden Rescues Stranded Boaters on Lake Champlain
A 911 call for help at 10:30 p.m. on July 10th resulted in Vermont State Game Warden Robert Sterling responding to a group of four people stranded in their boat that had run aground on southern Lake Champlain.
Story
7/9/09
Vermont Moose Hunting Permit Winners Are Drawn
The winners of Vermont’s 2009 moose hunting permits were determined July 09 at a lottery drawing in Montpelier. Governor Jim Douglas started the computer-generated selection process that randomly picked 1,230 winners among more than 14,000 people who applied this year.
Story
7/2/09
Vermont’s Draft Big Game Plan is Announced
Vermont’s draft Big Game Management Plan for 2010-2020 is available for public review. The Plan will provide management goals and activities for the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department to follow in managing Vermont’s deer, moose, black bear, and wild turkey populations in the next decade.
Story
6/30/09
State Fish and Wildlife Camps Rise in Popularity
A record number of students from throughout Vermont are enrolled this summer at the state’s two Green Mountain Conservation Camps, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Fish & Wildlife provides a one-week outdoor educational program at Lake Bomoseen in Castleton and Buck Lake in Woodbury.
Story
6/30/09
Vermont Muzzleloader Antlerless Deer Permits in 16 WMUs
Vermont's antlerless deer hunting lottery applications for the muzzleloader season are available on the Fish & Wildlife Department’s website, at Fish & Wildlife district offices, and at license agents statewide. Sixteen of Vermont’s 24 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) will receive permits this year as a result of a proposed regulation voted on by the Fish & Wildlife Board at their June meeting.
Story
6/30/09
Bow Hunter Instructor Training Offered July 18
Do you have a passion for bow hunting? There is no more powerful way to give back to what you love than with a gift of your time. If you love to bowhunt in Vermont, there are few better ways of giving your time than becoming a volunteer bowhunter education instructor.
Story
6/25/09
“Ladies Only” Bow Hunter Education Offered
Women are demonstrating every day that they are increasingly aware of the many outdoor opportunities Vermont offers. With increasing awareness, comes increasing demand for exposure and training. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is pleased to announce a “Ladies Only” Bow Hunter Education class that will be instructed by, you guessed it, a woman.
Story
6/19/09
Conservation Camps Partner With Summer Food Service Program
Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s Green Mountain Conservation Camps are participating in the Summer Food Service Program for Children. Funded by the United States Department of Agriculture, the program is designed to ensure that children who rely on free or reduced price meals during the school year continue to have adequate nutrition throughout the summer.
Story
6/19/09
Two Central Vermont Deer Poaching Cases Result in Convictions
Five men were recently convicted in two cases involving the poaching of six deer in Waterbury Center and East Montpelier last October as a result of investigations by Vermont State Game Wardens.
Story
6/18/09
Create a Father’s Day Fishing Memory with Dad
Father’s Day allows us to honor our fathers and show them our love. Have you considered taking him fishing this Father’s Day?
Story
6/10/09
This Saturday is Vermont’s Free Fishing Day
This Saturday, June 13th, is a great day to take a youngster fishing.
Story
6/9/09
Vermont Fishing Access Areas Now Searchable on the Web
Planning a fishing or boating trip in Vermont just got easier. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has developed a website to help boaters find access points to lakes and larger rivers for fishing and other recreational opportunities.
Story
6/9/09
Vermont Antlerless Deer Hunt Applications Available
Vermont's antlerless deer hunting lottery applications for the muzzleloader season are now available on the Fish & Wildlife Department’s website, at Fish & Wildlife district offices, and at license agents statewide.
Story
6/4/09
Scientists Ask House Subcommittees for Help With Bat Disease
Scott Darling, a Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department wildlife biologist, along with several other scientists, testified Thursday, June 4 at a joint hearing held by the National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee and Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife Subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. in an appeal for help in combating “white nose syndrome,” a disease that is threatening six of Vermont’s nine native species of bats.
Story
6/4/09
Vermont Days, June 13th and 14th , Offer Low Cost Fun and Learning Experien
Vermont Days on June 13 and 14, offer a low cost opportunity for fun and great learning experiences with Vermont’s excellent fishing, state parks, and historic resources.
Story
6/4/09
Young Wildlife Belong in the Wild
We all enjoy watching wildlife, especially at this time of year when young animals are appearing. But, the temptation to pick up young wildlife that seem to be in trouble or abandoned can do more harm than good, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Story
6/4/09
Northern Pike Age and Growth Data Will Help in Managing the Species
Did you ever wonder how old that northern pike was you caught? How old was that 21-inch pike your child caught this year ice fishing? How about the 30-inch 8-lber you brought home for supper? How old was that monster 41-inch, 24-lb pike you saw in the winning spot at the local derby this past winter?
Story
6/3/09
Reminder -- Deer Meetings Cancelled
This is a reminder following up on the May 26 news release below that the deer meetings previously scheduled for June are cancelled.
Story
5/27/09
Vermont Moose Hunting Application Deadline is June 2
The deadline to apply for a Vermont moose hunting permit is Tuesday, June 2.
Story
5/26/09
Meetings on Deer Regulations Cancelled
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Board has announced that four public meetings to discuss deer hunting previously scheduled for June have been cancelled. The Board cancelled meetings in Lyndonville, White River Junction, St. Albans, and Rutland to discuss a proposal to hold an early four day muzzleloader deer hunt in October.
Story
5/18/09
Cliff Tops and Overlooks Closed to Protect Nesting Peregrines
Memorial Day marks the opening of the state’s hiking trails after a long mud season, but the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department recommends you check to see if the area you’re planning to hike or climb is open. Nine cliff areas are currently closed to protect nesting peregrine falcons.
Story
5/14/09
Enjoy Vermont Days, June 13th and 14th
The weekend of June 13 and 14 is a great time to celebrate the arrival of summer and enjoy a free sample of Vermont’s excellent fishing, state parks, and historic resources. All Vermont State Park day areas, state-owned historic sites, and the Vermont Historical Society Museum in Montpelier will be open at no charge.
Story
5/12/09
2nd Annual Natural Resource Management Academy for Vermont Teens
Calling all teens! Sign up today for the 2nd Annual Natural Resource Management Academy that promises to be one of the most interesting weekends of your year!
Story
5/12/09
Meetings on Deer Regulations, June 3, 4, 8, 17
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Board will hold four meetings with the public in June to discuss proposed deer hunting regulations.
Story
5/11/09
Trophy Trout to be Stocked at Burlington and Vergennes
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department will be stocking about 800 two-year old “trophy” rainbow trout this week in Lake Champlain at Burlington Harbor and in Otter Creek below the Vergennes dam.
Story
5/1/09
INCIDENT:Hunting Related Shooting
On 05/01/09 at approximately 0600 hours, State Game Wardens, State Police and Lyndon Rescue responded to a report of a hunting related shooting at the above location. The shooting took place on private property.
Story
5/1/09
Conservation Camp Cleanup Weekend, May 16-17
Volunteers play a vital role each year by helping Vermont Fish & Wildlife staff do spring cleanup at the Buck Lake and Edward Kehoe Conservation Camps.
Story
4/29/09
New Walleye Regulation Reminder
With walleye fishing season starting Saturday, May 2, in much of Vermont, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is reminding anglers of a new minimum length and daily limit set by regulation.
STORY
4/29/09
Vermont Moose Hunting Applications Are Available
Vermont moose hunting permit applications are available on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s website (www.vtfishandwildlife.com) and at license agents statewide.
STORY
4/27/09
Addison County Men Plead Guilty to Deer Poaching Charges
Six Addison County men recently pled guilty in Addison District Court to multiple deer poaching charges stemming from a deer jacking complaint on the morning of August 2, 2008 in the Town of Leicester.
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4/24/09
Vermont’s 2009 Deer Management Proposal
Vermont’s deer herd is currently productive and healthy according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. The department’s annual proposal for a regulated deer harvest, based on scientific information and public input, was presented to the Fish and Wildlife Board on April 15th. The Board approved the proposal on the first of three votes necessary to make it law.
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4/23/09
Wildlife Officials Advise Sick Bats Returning to Summer Range
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department says bats will be returning to their summer maternity colonies as the weather gets warmer.
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4/23/09
Herricks Cove Wildlife Festival Celebrates Wildlife and Spring
Anyone interested in wildlife or itching to get out and enjoy a spring day should make plans to attend the 10th annual Herricks Cove Wildlife Festival in Rockingham on Sunday, May 3.
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4/23/09
Vermont’s Spring Turkey Hunting Starts Soon
Vermont offers some of the best turkey hunting in New England according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Vermont hunters have established new spring turkey harvest records in eight of the last eleven years. In 2008, Hunters took a record 5,454 turkeys in both the youth weekend and regular May 1-31 seasons.
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4/10/09
New "Outdoor Journal" Season on VPT
New "Outdoor Journal" Season on VPT
A new season of Vermont Public Televison’s weekly series "Outdoor Journal" begins at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14. The half-hour show celebrates outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation in Vermont, and is broadcast on VPT and archived at www.vpt.org as video on demand.
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4/8/09
Volunteers Needed for Barton River Tree Planting, April 25th
Here’s your chance to help in a conservation project to improve fish and wildlife habitat along the Barton River in Barton.
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4/7/09
Public Meeting on Plan for The Narrows Wildlife Management Area
A public meeting to discuss the Draft Management Plan for
The Narrows Wildlife Management Area (WMA) will be held Wednesday, April 15, from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at Benson Village School in Benson.
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4/3/09
4th Annual Bart Jacob Memorial Youth Turkey Calling Contest, April 18
The Fourth Annual Bart Jacob Memorial Turkey Calling Contest will be held Saturday, April 18 at 10:00 a.m. at the Pawlet Fire House Rt. 133 in Pawlet.
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4/1/09
Vermont Fish & Wildlife Encourages Landowners to Conserve Indiana Bat Habit
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is helping private landowners manage and enhance Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) habitat on their lands by providing federal funding through the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP).
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3/31/09
New ‘Outdoor Journal’ Season on VPT and April 9th Call-in Show
New ‘Outdoor Journal’ Season on VPT: Lake Champlain Fishery Call-In, Outdoor Stories, Teacher Resources
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3/31/09
Kids’ Fishing Events Being Held This Spring
Here’s a great opportunity for young people to give fishing a try. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has released a list of more than 60 upcoming fishing events, most of them intended just for kids.
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3/31/09
Spring Trout Fishing Opportunities Abound
April brings more than mud season to the North Country, especially in the minds of anglers. April 11 is opening day for Vermont’s trout fishing season, and experienced anglers know fishing just gets better after that.
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3/27/09
Turkey Hunting Safety Tips from VT F&W
For many Vermont hunters, May first is almost as important as the opening of firearms deer season, and while turkey hunting-related shootings are rare, extra precautions are needed.
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3/23/09
New Walleye Regulation in Effect
A new fishing regulation designed to improve walleye fishing in Vermont took effect in January.
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board passed the statewide regulation based on recommendations from the public and state fisheries biologists with the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. The new fishing rules apply to all waters of Vermont except Lake Carmi, Chittenden Reservoir and the Connecticut River.
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3/23/09
Farm Bill encourages landowners to protect wet
The Agency of Natural Resources is helping property owners tap into $6.5 million in funds to conserve and restore wetlands in Vermont.
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3/19/09
Remove Bird Feeders to Avoid Tempting Bears
Vermont's black bears are emerging from their winter dens and looking for springtime food sources. If you have been feeding birds, you can help prevent the bears from getting into trouble by taking down your bird feeders according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
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3/18/09
Vermont Deer Hunters Took More than 17,000 Deer in 2008
Hunters did well in Vermont’s 2008 deer hunting seasons with more than 17,000 deer harvested, which helped in managing the deer population and provided high quality table fare for hunters’ families, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
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3/18/09
“Ladies Only” Home Study Hunter Education Offered
Women are increasingly aware of the many outdoor opportunities Vermont has to offer. With growing interest, comes increasing demand for exposure and training. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is very pleased to announce a “Ladies Only” Home Study Hunter Education class that will be instructed by, you guessed it, a woman.
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3/12/09
Ice Fishing is Good but be Cautious
Ice fishing has been excellent in recent weeks, but the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is urging anyone venturing onto the ice to use extreme caution.
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3/11/09
Vermont's Trout Season Opens Saturday, April 11
Opening day of Vermont’s trout fishing season -- April 11 this year -- is big on tradition. It marks the beginning of another year of memorable angling experiences, alone, or with family or friends, at streamside, or on quiet lakes and ponds.
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3/10/09
Deer Meetings Begin March 24th
If you have an interest in Vermont's white-tailed deer you will want to attend one of the five annual public meetings being held in March by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department to discuss the deer herd. The meetings begin March 24 in Springfield and Lyndonville.
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3/10/09
Hunter Education Instructor Workshops Offered
There is no more powerful way to give back to what you love than with a gift of your time. If you love to hunt or trap in Vermont, there are few better ways to give your time than becoming a volunteer hunter education instructor.
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3/10/09
Ice Shanties Must Be Removed from Ice
Cold weather may have extended ice fishing on some Vermont lakes, but a state law requires that ice fishing shanties must be removed from the ice no later than Sunday, March 29th.
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3/4/09
David LeCours is Vermont’s Chief Game Warden
David LeCours of Barre, a Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department state game warden since 1982, is Vermont’s new Chief Game Warden. LeCours served as Major and second in command since 2005.
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3/4/09
‘A Vermont Fishing Journal’ Airs March 10 on VPT
In anticipation of the upcoming sport fishing season, Vermont Public Television (VPT) will air a new special called “A Vermont Fishing Journal” on Tuesday, March 10, at 7:30 p.m. The 90-minute program is an anthology of Lawrence Pyne’s favorite angling moments from his past six seasons as host of VPT’s popular series “Outdoor Journal.”
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3/2/09
Vermont’s Nongame Wildlife Fund Seeks Taxpayer Support
After years of absence, common loons, peregrine falcons and ospreys are now nesting again in Vermont, and their numbers are increasing. In fact, they have done so well, they are no longer listed as endangered or threatened in Vermont. Their successful comeback can be credited to Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s Nongame and Natural Heritage Program – a program now seeking individual taxpayer support to help support work on other aquatic and terrestrial species.
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