|
Advertise your business here Email or call 906-524-6194 for more information
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS |
OUTDOORS PAGE ARCHIVES |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Back Issues: December 5, 2007 December 12, 2007 December 19, 2007 December 26, 2007 January 2, 2008 January 9, 2008 January 16, 2008 January 23, 2008 January 30, 2008 February 6 2008 February 13, 2008 February 20, 2008 February 27, 2008 March 5, 2008 March 12, 2008 March 19, 2008 March 25, 2008 April 2, 2008 April 9, 2008 April 16, 2008 April 23, 2008 Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Monitoring Big Huron
Restrict bait at Isle Royale
Isle Royale National Park Superintendent Phyllis Green announced
emergency restrictions on the possession and use of organic fish bait
for fishing within the Lake Superior waters of the park. Also, the
park will require decontamination of boats transported to the park via
Ranger III.
“These restrictions are necessary to help prevent the spread of viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) to Lake Superior and the waters around Isle Royale. This deadly fish virus has the potential to devastate island fish populations if it gets into the Lake,” Green said. The restrictions took effect on April 22, 2008. Under these new restrictions, the possession and use of fish and/or fish parts as bait for fishing in Isle Royale’s Lake Superior waters will be restricted to only those fish or fish parts obtained from fish caught within Isle Royale National Park. All transportation of fish or fish parts to the island for use as bait is prohibited. The new restrictions also require all boats transported to Isle Royale on Ranger III to be washed or disinfected prior to departure. Apply for bear tag May 1 - June 1
Bear hunters may apply for a 2008 bear hunting license May 1
through June 1. Hunters may apply for a license at more than 1,700
license agents and DNR Operations Service Centers statewide or via the
Internet at www.michigan.gov/dnr.
The cost for a bear hunting license application is $4. This nonrefundable fee must be paid at the time of application. Online customers may use MasterCard or Visa to charge their purchase, and print their application receipt from their personal computers. There is no application fee for Comprehensive Lifetime license holders. UP meeting unite DNR, citizens groups
Two regional public meetings are planned in May to bring together
conservation organizations and interested citizens with the Department
of Natural Resources and the Natural Resources Commission to work
together on Upper Peninsula natural resources issues.
The first meeting will be for the Western UP Citizens Advisory Council (CAC) at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at Northern Michigan University’s Don H. Bottum University Center in the Charcoal Room. The facility is located at 1401 Presque Isle Avenue in Marquette. The second meeting for the Eastern UP CAC will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 10, at the McMillan Township Hall located at 405 Newberry Avenue in Newberry. DNR proposing three lines, five salmon
More lines! More fish! Can the fishin’ news get any better?
Only if the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) follows through on the regulation changes now under consideration. The DNR announced April 28, 2008, its Fisheries Division is seeking public input on two draft proposals aimed at giving anglers an edge. One is to increase the number of lines allowed per fisherman from two to three. The other bumps up salmon limits from three to five fish. Spring is wildfire season....
As the weather continues to warm up and outdoor activities, such as
yardwork, begin in earnest, the Department of Natural Resources
reminds citizens that spring is wildfire season in Michigan.
“The return of warm, windy weather has led to wildfires across southern and central Michigan already this year,” said Paul Kollmeyer, DNR fire prevention specialist. “It only takes a short time after the snow recedes to dry out the dead grass and leaves to the point at which they will easily ignite and burn.” ...and April is the worst month of all
Most of Michigan's wildfires occur in the spring -- April, May and
June. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the
agency responsible for wildland fire protection on 20 million acres of
state and private land, April is the worst month of all.
Which is why the DNR, in partnership with the Michigan Interagency Wildfire Protection Association, is using the state's annual observance of Wildfire Prevention Week to remind the public about the dangers of wildfires.
Wildfire season approaches in UP with warmth, wind
As the weather continues to warm and outdoor activities such as
yardwork begin in earnest, the Department of Natural Resources reminds
citizens that spring is wildfire season in Michigan.
“The return of warm, windy weather has led to wildfires across southern and central Michigan already this year,” said Paul Kollmeyer, DNR fire prevention specialist. “It only takes a short time after the snow recedes to dry out the dead grass and leaves to the point at which they will easily ignite and burn.” Earth Day Event at Porkies park
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is holding an Earth Day
Event on April 26, 2008.
The activities will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Porcupine Mountains Folk School, near the entrance to the Union Bay Campground. Activities include: Deeryard Hike - This one-hour off-trail hike will focus on how the recent winter has impacted wildlife in the park. Beginning Letter Boxing Workshop - Letter boxing is an adventure activity that combines artistic expression, treasure hunting, map and compass use, way-finding skills, hiking and more. All materials will be provided. More elk licenses this year
The Natural Resources Commission approved the 2008 elk season dates
and quotas at their meeting last week.
The dates for Hunt Period 1 (early elk season) are Aug. 26-29 and Sept. 12-16. The dates for Hunt Period 2 (December elk season) are Dec. 9-16. The time frame for Hunt Period 3 (January elk season) would be five days in mid-January, if the hunt is necessary to achieve population management goals. Following a survey of the elk range in February, the elk herd is estimated to be between 1,100 and 1,200 animals. The management objective is for 800 to 900 elk. To manage the elk toward the desired objective there will be 330 elk licenses available this year -- double the number available last year.
It's been a banner winter for grooming Skiers, snowmobilers pleased with good trails, long season
It’s been a long winter. While that phrase means different things
to different people, local snowmobilers and cross country skiers
couldn’t be happier!
The trail grooming crews have been busy maintaining good conditions for both sports. The Pinery Lakes Cross Country Ski Trail has proven popular once again, thanks to a volunteer grooming effort spearheaded by Dr. Mark Summersett. Two years ago when the old 1988 Ski Doo Alpine X-C groomer-puller died, several people jumped in to the rescue. A $1,000 engine rebuild was financed by volunteer donations and Summersett and others led the drive to resume grooming and track-setting on the Pinery Lakes trail near L’Anse. New name reflects expanding mission at 'BCCVB'
It’s been housed for decades in the building at U.S. 41 and Broad
Street with the “Information” sign on the roof. Known until recently
as Baraga County Tourist and Recreation Association, it’s been a place
to find far more than tourist information.
The new name, once the legal paperwork was processed in Lansing beginning last December, is “Baraga County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Director Tracey Barrett said the tourist information organization has long focused on a variety of projects. “We were the last ‘tourist and rec’ around, although the UP Travel and Recreation Association (UPTRA) is still in existence. What we do is promote Baraga County and bring people here. We wear many hats,” Barrett said. “Because we collect the 2-percent motel room tax we’re a convention and visitor’s bureau in the eyes of the state.
Ain't over 'til it's over!
Snowmo hillclimb seeking sponsors
Copper Peak Ski Flying Inc. Board of Directors along with the Mid
America Snowmobile Tournament of Expert Riders (MASTERS) Circuit have
set Saturday, Feb. 14, as the date of the 2009 Copper Peak
Championship Snowmobile Hillclimb.
This Snowmobile Hillclimb is considered to be one of the biggest single-day spectator attendance snowmobile events in the Midwest. This past year the event took place the third weekend in January and saw temperatures below zero. Count frog, toads
This year will be the 13th year of a statewide frog and toad survey
coordinated by the Natural Heritage Unit on the DNR’s Wildlife
Division.
Declining populations of frogs, toads and other amphibians have been documented worldwide since the 1980s. Studies suggest amphibians are disappearing due to habitat loss, pollution, disease, and other issues. Michigan’s annual survey efforts help biologists keep tabs on frog and toad abundance and distribution in the state. “We have collected a large, valuable data set to help us evaluate the condition of Michigan’s frog and toad populations,” said Lori Sargent, the DNR’s survey coordinator. 'Outdoor Woman' in UP
Women seeking the opportunity to improve their outdoor skills are
invited to register for the 11th annual Becoming an Outdoors-Woman
(BOW) program, set for May 30-June 1 in Big Bay, 30 miles north of
Marquette.
The program will be held at Bay Cliff Health Camp, a universally accessible facility, located in a picturesque wooded setting overlooking Lake Superior. Sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, this program offers instruction in more than two dozen kinds of outdoor activities, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, boating, birding, ORV/ATV use, GPS and map and compass, and several styles of shooting sports. Instructors provide basic and advanced instruction tailored to the participant’s individual ability. Little League registration April 19 at Baraga school
Registration for the 2008 season at Baraga County Little League
will be held on: Saturday, April 19, 2008 from noon to 2 p.m. at the
Baraga Area Schools.
Children ages 5 to 15 who live within the Baraga County Little League boundaries are eligible to enroll to play senior league, majors/minors baseball and t-ball. Registration is required even if the child played previously. This will be the only registration for the 2008 season. Team placement will be conducted at a later date. At least one parent or legal guardian must be present, with three proofs of residence, and an original or state-certified copy of the child’s birth certificate. The documents will be inspected and returned at registration. For more information, including a description of the boundaries, call Bill or Bucki Jondreau at 353-7676.
Michaels enjoy skiing 'Border-to-Border' L'Anse, Baraga natives take on cross-Finland challenge
Baraga County was well represented in the Border-to-Border ski trip
across Finland when Amy and Lyle Michaels crossed the finish line on
March 12, 2008.
Amy (Tollefson) hails from L'Anse, and Michaels is a Baraga native. Amy’s parents are Herb and Lou Tollefson, of L’Anse. Lyle’s parents are Lorraine and the late Ellery Michaels, of Baraga. The couple lives in Harvey, just a stone's throw from fellow adventurer Frida Waara who once led a group of women skiers to the North Pole. Waara didn't have to lead the Michaels' to Finland–she just had to mention it. To groom snowmobile trails through April 6
A lingering, dense snow pack over most of Michigan's Upper
Peninsula has led Department of Natural Resources officials to extend
grants to groom the state-managed snowmobile trail system through
April 6, 2008. The usual date to conclude trail grooming is March 31.
"The UP has been blessed with late snowfall and continuing cold weather, so the trails have remained in great shape over most of the region, and that's great news for snowmobilers looking for a wonderful place to enjoy another ride before they put their machines away for the season," said Steve Kubisiak, DNR Recreation and Trails coordinator. Trappers plan auction
The Upper Peninsula Trappers Association will be picking up fur
throughout a large portion of the Upper Peninsula on Saturday, April
5, 2008 for Fur Harvesters Auction, an international auction house
headquartered in North Bay, Ontario Canada.
Fur Harvesters Auction has a reputation for quality, well-graded wild fur and commands top prices from international buyers. Trappers wanting to market their furs should check out the schedule in the Alerts/News section of the U.P Trappers Association Website at www.uptrappers.com or call Rick Arduin at (906) 498-2261 evenings or at (906) 498-7649 weekdays.
Arvon Bunny Club keeps winter months busy
Seven years ago a bunch of guys, mostly from the Skanee area,
loosely organized to promote their favorite snowy activity–rabbit
hunting. The “Arvon Bunny Club” has attracted a dedicated crew of
members and while its rabbit hunts fill the winter months, other
events dot the calendar year-round.
The group takes its hunting seriously, but knows how to have a great time once the guns are cased and the dogs are penned. And the Bunny Club also believes in helping out with charitable donations in the community. “At first the idea was to have something to do in mid-winter. We wanted to run our beagles and hunt. And we wanted to try and get younger people interested,” said veteran club member Dave Gouin. “With the way society is changing its sometimes hard to find young people who are interested but we’re working on that.” Habitat workshop at OSC
On the afternoon of Saturday, April 5, 2008 a habitat workshop will
be held at the Ottawa Sportsmen’s Club, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be workshops on woodlot management, food plots, mast trees, and shrubs etc. Also, food plot corn and soy seeds will be distributed to Keweenaw Bay Cutter members. Kevin Swanson from the DNR will speak about “LIPP”, a state tree-planting program. Rob Aho, DNR Wildlife Biologist, will talk about literature and information sources to help make sound habitat decisions. Ruffed Grouse Society checking interest in forming area chapter
The Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) is exploring interest in the
establishment of a local chapter encompassing Houghton, Keweenaw,
Baraga and Ontonagon counties.
RGS is dedicated to promoting conditions suitable for grouse, woodcock and other wildlife to sustain our hunting tradition and outdoor heritage. To determine interest and further explain the benefits of forming a local chapter, there will be an organization meeting Thursday, April 3, 2008, at 7 p.m. The meeting is at the Ottawa Sportsmen’s Club on M-38, seven miles West of Baraga. Everyone interested in learning more are encouraged to attend. Conservation districts honor Lahti, others
The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD)
recognized Representative Lahti and three other key legislators for
their outstanding support in natural resource conservation in Michigan
during the March 6, 2008, Conservation Reception held at the State
Capital in Lansing, Michigan.
Over 200 attendees recognized Representative Michael Lahti, Representative John Espinoza, Senator Cameron Brown and Senator Michelle McManus for their strong support of Michigan Conservation Districts and the valuable natural resource programs delivered to private land owners through Districts in Michigan. Mike Lawless, President of MACD stated that Rep. Michael Lahti is a strong supporter of Michigan Conservation Districts and his commitment to districts and their programs is greatly appreciated.
Another HB monster!
Same show in Zeits' shack for 80 winters
Frank Zeits enjoys wide-screen TV in his spear fishing shack on
Keweenaw Bay. And he's been tuning in to the same show for over 80
winters.
Zeits of Baraga is 90 years old. The spear he uses for herring and whitefish was fashioned by his father, who straightened the tines of a potato fork and added weight and line to its handle. Zeits has been throwing that same spear every ice season since he was 10 years old. Born and raised in Lake Leelenau, Zeits cut his teeth spear fishing for pike, adding other species to the platter as he grew. He moved to the UP 42 years ago, and retired as a mechanic for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Porkies offer Artist-in-Residence
The Department of Natural Resources today announced that the
application deadline for the Porcupine Mountains Artist-in-Residence
Program for the 2008 spring, summer and fall and 2009 winter
residencies is fast approaching. The Artist-in-Residence Program is
open to artists and artisans whose work can be influenced by this
unique northern wilderness setting.
The program offers writers, composers and all visual and performing artists an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the park and to express it through their art form. Each year a number of artists will be selected for residencies lasting a minimum of two weeks. Artists will be given the use of a rustic cabin located on the Little Union River and, if requested, a three-night back country permit so that they may live in, and explore, the park’s 60,000 acres of natural beauty ranging from stunning vistas to 90 miles of rugged backcountry trails.
Tech hosts clean, and green snowmos
In the world of motor sports, “clean and quiet” don’t often pair up
with “driving excitement.” But at the SAE Clean Snowmobile Challenge,
teams of college students from across the US and Canada are building
green machines that still sizzle.
All 17 will be showing off their sleds to the public on Wednesday, March 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Copper Country Mall. Set for Monday–Saturday, March 10–15, at Michigan Technological University, the Clean Snowmobile Challenge is the Society of Automotive Engineers' newest collegiate design competition. Engineering students from participating schools take a stock snowmobile and reengineer it to reduce emissions and noise while maintaining or improving performance. NE Lower Peninsula Bovine TB lower
Disease surveillance and monitoring efforts by the Department of
Natural Resources during the 2007 white-tailed deer hunting season
showed that the prevalence rate for bovine tuberculosis (TB) dropped
to 1.4 percent in Deer Management Unit 452.
DMU 452 is the core area of the TB outbreak in northeastern Lower Michigan that includes parts of Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency and Oscoda counties. The prevalence rate during the 2006 season had spiked to 2.3 percent, after seeing a decline to 1.2 percent in 2005. Trout unlimited meets
Copper Country Chapter of Trout Unlimited will meet on Wednesday,
March 19, at 7 p.m. in Lecture Hall G-002 of the Michigan Tech
Forestry Building. Guest speakers will be Dr. Ashley Moerke and Roger
Greil from the Aquatic Research Laboratory of Lake Superior State
University. They will discuss research activities at their lab,
including the Atlantic Salmon Hatchery.
All fishing and conservation enthusiasts are invited to attend. For more information contact Bill Leder at 482-0158. Cotter's keeper
Warm sunny days lures ice fishers
Shelly Jestila held her Bella Vista Bar Lake Trout Contest last
Saturday. After two winters with unsafe ice or open water off
Pequaming, 60 ice anglers were eager to register.
The big fish have been few and far between off Pequaming and Whirl-I-Gig lately, and that trend continued Saturday. DNR CO Dave Miller inspected hundreds of fish on Keweenaw Bay Saturday and didn’t find but a handful in the six-eight pound range. Todd Heikkinen won the Bella contest and $150 with an 8-2 laker. Dale Hollon was second and won $100 for his 5-1 lake trout. Chad Soli took third place and $50 for a 4-3 fish. Kristy Thorold won an Ollila-made fish tent. “We had a great time. We also had a chili feed,” Jestila added. Courchaine new DNR field deputy
Thomas Courchaine, a 27-year veteran Department of Natural
Resources employee, has been named acting field deputy for the Upper
Peninsula. Courchaine replaces James Ekdahl, who retired in January
following 33 years of service to the department.
As Upper Peninsula field deputy, Courchaine will serve as DNR Director Rebecca Humphries’ chief representative in the region and will have administrative responsibility for all department operations in the UP. He will be stationed at the Marquette Operations Service Center. Predator hunt achieving goal
Eleven predators including 10 coyotes and one bobcat were harvested
in the U.P. Whitetails of Baraga County Varmint Hunt & Trap.
The month-long event which ran from Feb. 1 to March 1, 2008 saw only four registrants, of whom three were awarded prizes. Hunters received $5 apiece for predators registered, plus a chance at the drawing held this past Saturday at Indian Country Sports in L'Anse. "We didn't do really great–but maybe that's a good sign," said Stu Lahti of L'Anse, treasurer of the local branch of U.P. Whitetails. “That's probably a sign the number of predators is down around here.” Deer facing uphill struggle for Spring
Winter weather that's come closer to the truth than recent, milder
seasons is exacting a toll on the U.P. whitetail deer herd.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that winter severity index (WSI), a measurement of how deer are weathering the season, has reached 77.3, up from 63 at this time last year. If the number hits 100, widespread deer mortality can be expected. "That's higher than average," said DNR wildlife biologist Rob Aho at the Baraga office, "but below the highest it's been."
Seeking to publish 5-county ORV map
For the first time Mi-TRALE will be releasing a five-county ORV map
this spring. The map will show hundreds of miles of ORV trails and
preferred routes in Ontonagon, Gogebic, Iron, Houghton, and Baraga
Counties.
The map is being produced by the Western Upper Peninsula Planning Development Region (WUPPDR), and is being funded by Mi-TRALE membership dues. Mi-TRALE, which stands for Michigan Trails and Recreation Alliance of Land and the Environment, has been saving much of its membership money since the club was formed in July of 2001. However the printing costs, which are expected to be well over $3,000 will come from sales of ads on the map. Mi-TRALE is selling 1 x 2 "Business Card" Ads for $150, and 2 x 4 (two Business Card size) for $250. Mi-TRALE members will also have a number correlating with their ad placed at the location of their business on the map. To extend pike, walleye season in '09
Department of Natural Resources fisheries officials reminds anglers
the change in regulations for the closing date for the walleye,
northern pike and muskellunge fishing season in the Upper Peninsula
does not take effect until 2009.
The regulation change, which extends the walleye, northern pike and muskellunge season from the last day in February to March 15, may be found in the 2008 Michigan Fishing Guide, but the state's fishing rules apply from April 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009. Miller a contender
The first snowmobiler to win the Selkey Manufacturing Pro Mod King
of the Hill at the Copper Peak Championship Hillclimb in a snowmobile
smaller then a 600 cc has been invited to compete at the World
Championship Snowmobile Hillclimb in Jackson, WY. That snowmobiler is
Matt Tingstad of Bessemer.
The 33rd World Championship Hillclimb will take place March 27- 30 this year. The World Championships take place at Snow King Mountain, located in the center of Jackson, WY.
Cold weather paves path for ice anglers
There's a new town in town –ice shanties, tents and such--thanks to
a blanket of ice coating Keweenaw Bay.
The past weekend found the bay peppered with temporary real estate as grateful anglers hauled shacks, sleds and five-gallon pail perches out onto the bay. Ice thicknesses ranging from over a foot to ‘tread lightly’ (three inches) coaxed anglers outdoors to pursue their favorite winter sport. Earlier cold snaps and recent deep freezes have combined to pave the way to adventure for anglers of all ages. Inland lakes froze first, starting in late December, followed by Huron Bay with its promise of whitefish, herring, lake trout and more. DNR hiring now for summer jobs
The Department of Natural Resources is now hiring to fill many
interesting and educational jobs at state parks, visitor centers and
fish hatcheries.
"We offer several positions in the summer in our State Park Explorer Program, which is aimed at providing educational nature programs to state park visitors," said DNR Education and Outreach Manager Kevin Frailey. "We also have summer jobs available through our Interpretive Services for positions at visitor centers, fish hatcheries and gift shops. These positions provide summer job opportunities for people who are interested in working for the DNR and helping educate and inform the public about Michigan's natural resources." DNR seeks input on new ORV plan
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in cooperation with
the Off-Road Vehicle Trails Advisory Board, has released a revised
draft management plan for ORV use in Michigan.
The new plan also addresses other influences that have come into play since 2005, such as legislative boilerplate language regarding trail expansion and pending legislation concerning ORV operation on public roadways. The revised draft plan can be viewed online by going to www.michigan.gov/dnr , then clicking on the Recreation, Camping & Boating link to locate the ORV/ATV page. Public comment on the revised plan, which may be submitted via e-mail at DNR-ORVPlanComments@Michigan.gov , has been extended until midnight EST, Feb. 25, 2008.
Skunked grandpa!
Free ice fishing is Feb. 16-17
Michigan’s annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend set for Feb. 16-17,
2008, across the state provides an opportunity for families to get
outdoors and enjoy the time-honored tradition of ice fishing. It is
the perfect time to introduce children to the sport.
The DNR has permanently established the Saturday and Sunday of Presidents Day weekend each year as the Winter Free Fishing Weekend. For those two days, all fishing license fees will be waived for both residents and visitors who wish to fish on Michigan waters. All fishing regulations will still apply. Those anglers 17 and older who plan to fish on Monday, Feb. 18, will need a valid Michigan fishing license. Lowering Pricket Dam reservoir
Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) is preparing for spring
run-off by lowering the water level at Prickett reservoir.
Starting Friday, Feb. 1, 2008, Prickett reservoir is being drawn down one to six inches a day until the water is about seven feet below normal operating level. “We do this every year prior to spring run-off,” said Pat Fulsher, Superintendent--Regional Generation. Chassell VFW ice tourney is Feb. 23
The second annual Chassell VFW Ice Fishing Tournament takes place
on Portage Lake on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008. The tournament proved
popular in its first year, drawing 211 adults and children as
registered anglers.
The kids’s derby runs from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. Prizes are awarded for the first, second and third biggest fish, and the smallest fish. Hot dogs, chips, and fruit drink will be available and prizes will be awarded at 2 p.m. Children must fish to win a door prize. The kids’ contest is free for children up to age 15.
UP Whitetails host varmint hunt
Predators become prey in the annual Varmint Hunt & Trap sponsored
by U.P. Whitetails of Baraga County.
The event is held to help preserve game animals by trimming the predator population, and no pre-registration is required. This marks the third year the organization has turned the tables on coyotes, bobcats and fox by offering a $5 bounty for each animal registered. Registrations also qualify participants for one of three prizes to be awarded March 1, 2008 at 4 p.m. at Indian Country Sports on the L’Anse Waterfront. Additional chances are awarded for each subsequent varmint registered, improving the odds for successful hunters. The event kicked off on Friday, Feb. 1 and ends Saturday, March 1. Persons may register varmints at Indian Country Sports, or by contacting Stu Lahti, treasurer of U.P. Whitetails of Baraga County, at 524-6658. 'BOW' at Bay Cliff
The Department of Natural Resources Becoming an Outdoors-Woman
(BOW) program has the cure for any woman who has a case of “cabin
fever” and is longing to get outdoors -- two weekend BOW programs
planned for February.
The first is Feb. 22-24, at Bay Cliff Health Center at Big Bay in the Upper Peninsula, and the second is Feb. 29-March 2, at the Ralph A. MacMullan Center at Higgins Lake.
Young and old win snowmo hill climb
The cold temperature didn't keep the competition from being
hot at this years Copper Peak Championship Hillclimb, north of
Bessemer. The competition featured some of the top drivers from years
ago against many new hillclimbers.
In the Kissel Chevrolet Pro Stock King of the Hill, last years king, Wyler Miller winning the $1,000 top prize. Miller from Pelkie was the only driver that qualified for the King of the Hill Shoot-out to make it over the top of the steep bluff at Copper Peak. Miller did not do this until his second run in the shoot-out, as the driver had won two classes. In his first run at the hill, Miller made it past the third gate. It was on his second run that he made it over the top. The driver that took a second to Miller last year, Matt Tingstad of Bessemer, took a second in the Pro Mod King of the Hill shoot-out. Sportsmen help tribal stocking
A fish stocking project that typically lasts from December
into February or March at the Keweenaw Bay Tribal Hatchery was
completed much quicker due to many hours of volunteer help.
KBIC Natural Resource Department raised 60,000 lake trout destined for local waters and needed to get them on their way in a hurry. “The hatchery has been experiencing water supply problems and tank space was needed,” explained Natural Resource Specialist Evelyn Ravindran. Tech hosts clean snowmos
For the Society of Automotive Engineers Clean Snowmobile Challenge,
2008 is the year of biofuel.
Student teams from across Canada and the US will be in the Copper Country powering their sleds with ethanol in their efforts to build a greener, quieter machine while maintaining the riding excitement demanded by snowmobile enthusiasts. Other teams will bring zero-emissions, battery-powered sleds to the challenge. The competition will be held March 10-15, 2008, at Michigan Technological University's Keweenaw Research Center, home of the finest winter driving track in the Midwest.
Cross Country skiers back on tracks at Pinery
Area cross-country ski enthusiasts are back on tracks thanks to a
small corps of volunteers grooming the Pinery Lakes Cross Country Ski
Trail in L'Anse, but donations are needed to preserve smooth sailing.
Mark Summersett of L'Anse is leader of the pack that's packing and cutting ski tracks into the trail located on Indian Cemetery Road. John Tembreull, Todd Peltola and Tim Luoma also shoulder the load of keeping the trail well groomed. "It all came about the year before last," Summersett said. "The snowmobile broke down–the engine failed. Aaron Paquette was grooming at that point in time, and there was no money to do anything about it." Hunters urged to report info on-line
The Department of Natural Resources is reminding deer hunters that
they can report their deer harvest success online. Accurate and
complete information on hunting activity is vital for sound deer
management. To improve the amount and accuracy of information on
hunting activities, the DNR offers this option for deer hunters to
report their hunting activity over the Internet.
All deer hunters are invited to complete an online survey between now and Apr. 1, 2008. After April 1, survey analysis will occur. The survey is available on the DNR Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnr under the Hunting and the Deer sections. Women's outdoor program Feb. 22-24
Women seeking the opportunity to develop their outdoor skills are
encouraged to register for the Department of Natural Resources' fifth
annual Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (B.O.W.) Winter Weekend, yet for
Feb. 22, 23 and 24, 2008, at the Bay Cliff Health Camp in Big Bay, 30
miles north of Marquette
The deadline for registering is Feb. 1,2008. Reserve sites for summer
The Department of Natural Resources wants to remind users of
Michigan state parks, harbors and recreation areas that reservations
are now available for much of the 2008 summer season.
Reservations for harbor slips, campsites, cabins, teepees and yurts are now available on-line or through the reservation call center for dates into early July. Campsites become available for arrival dates six months out from the date a reservation is made, so we are already booking into the Fourth of July time frame, said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR
Otter Lake Derby draws record crowd of 238
Prime fishing conditions and a reputation for producing monster
pike lured a whopping 238 ice anglers to the Otter Lake Sportsmen's
Club (OLSC) fishing derby in Tapiola on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2008.
The crowd on the ice represented an increase of 80 more entrants than last year’s record of 158. Bob Michaelson of Brothertown, WI, hauled in a 36- 1/2" northern pike for first place in the contest, then won third place as well with another 32-1/2” pike. Barry Drue of Aura captured second place in the tournament with his 33 1/4", 10-pound northern. Snowmo climb is Saturday
Past Copper Peak Snowmobile Hill climb "King of the Hill," Al Turin
will be back for the 2008 climb on Jan. 19.
Turin had dominated at this event for years winning both the Pro Stock and Pro Mod King of the Hill in the latter '90's and early 00 years. Then it appeared that the Greenland, MI driver had retired from competition.
PAC ice tourney packs them in!
A new “world’s record” was set on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008, in
Covington when 383 anglers registered for the annual PAC ice fishing
tournament.
Held on Vermillac Lake off Old M-28, the tournament offers prizes for the three biggest fish in four categories: walleye, northern pike, crappie and perch. The smallest in each class also nabs a cash prize. Steve Salli is a coordinator of the event which has grown bigger and better each year. This year’s contest featured door prizes for about half those registered, a special drawing for children, day-long bonfire on shore, refreshments and even helicopter rides. It's all about pike at Otter Lake Derby
Fish come in many sizes and flavors, but on Saturday, Jan.
12, 2008, it’s only about one fish and one size at Otter Lake.
Northern pike. Big ones!
The annual winter Fishing Derby sponsored by the Otter Lake Sportsmen’s Club is expected to lure 150 or more ice fishermen to the Tapiola lake. Last year 158 anglers registered and some dandy pike were hooked. A 17-pound pike measuring nearly 41 inches was taken by Tim Marczak in his first-ever Otter Lake Derby to win the 2007 contest. One of the unique features of the Otter Lake event is the awarding of prizes and trophies in both adult and youth (17-and-under) categories. Last year’s first place youth winner was Tyler Harkonen, who landed a 34 1/4” northern. MDOT: Don't pile snow on roads
The state transportation department reminds residents and
business owners living along state highways to avoid shoveling or
plowing snow from their driveways onto shoulders and roadways. These
actions are prohibited by the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code that notes,
"the obstruction of safety vision by removal or deposit of snow, ice,
or slush is prohibited."
“This is a serious safety concern and it is against the law," said Jon Reincke, chief engineer of maintenance, Michigan Depart-m"Snow or slush should be piled safely outside the roadway. Anyone who does not keep this area clear may be liable for any accidents that occur as a result of piles of snow on the shoulder or roadway."
Winter tourism businesses rebound with better snow
A pre-Christmas cloudburst rained on the local tourism industry’s
parade last week, but colder temperatures and significant snowfall
since have created happier trails for snowmobilers, skiers and, of
course, the merchants.
Tracey Barrett, Director of the Baraga County Tourist Recreation Association (BCTRA), said the Christmas season was gearing up to be a great one before the skies opened last weekend. Heavy rainfall on Sunday, Dec. 23 gave way to heavier snow that drew tourism traffic to a near halt. “Things were going to be good if we didn’t have all that warm weather and rain,” Barrett said. “The four to five inches of snow we just got are a blessing.” Plum Creek grant for Huron River
The Plum Creek Foundation recently awarded a $2,000 grant to
Lake Superior’s Huron River Restoration, Inc. to help fund a watershed
assessment on the Huron River.
Large amounts of sediment have been collecting in the Huron River, and the watershed study will help determine the best management practices to reduce sediment build-up. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Division will develop the protocol to be followed by The Huron River Watershed Partnership during the initial data collection. After the watershed assessment is complete, the DNR will analyze the data. The study will help develop public education and outreach efforts to promote management practices in and protection of the watershed.
Ice fishers should be safe on early ice
It was early winter, and Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Technician Brad Johnson of Baraga was taking part in an
aerial survey over Keweenaw Bay looking for wolf tracks, when he
noticed a large dark area in the middle of the frozen bay. But
Johnson's focus was on his wolf research, so he didn't give the ice
much thought.
About two weeks later, he and his buddy, Dean, tested the ice near shore and, finding it to be a solid 4-5 inches thick, decided it was safe to go fishing. They hopped on Dean's snowmobile and balancing a pair of portable ice tents between them, off they went with Johnson holding a five-gallon bucket containing jigging rods and tackle in each hand.
Sporting goods tax steered to DNR?
The chair of the House Natural Resources Committee, State
Representative Joel Sheltrown (D-West Branch), has called for the
dedication of certain sales tax revenue in place of increases on
hunting and fishing license fees and state campground fees.
Under a plan announced on Nov. 19, 2007, one-sixth of the sales tax collected from the sale of sporting goods would be dedicated to the Michigan Conservation and Recreation Legacy Fund. The fund, created by voters last year, supports Michigan’s state parks; state forest campgrounds; hunting and fishing programs; and snowmobile, off-road vehicle and waterways programs. Ponnistus ice derby is Jan. 5
Ice fishermen will converge on the shallow but productive waters of
Vermillac Lake in Covington on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008.
Ponnistus Athletic Club’s 23rd annual Ice Fishing Derby is expected to draw as many as 300 anglers. The lake is teaming with fish and fishers, and the shore at the public access will be filled with people warming around a bonfire, enjoying food and refreshments and waiting for the prizes to be awarded at the end of the fishing day. Registration begins at 7 a.m. at the site, with the fish contest running until 4:30 p.m. For a $5 registration fee anglers can try their luck for cash prizes. Money is awarded for several places in walleye, pike, crappie and perch categories. All registrants qualify for a shot at winning one of many door prizes donated by local merchants. For more information contact Steve Salli at 355-2531.
Early snow means groomers are hitting the trails
Baraga County and the rest of the Western Upper Peninsula are
blanketed in white and Baraga County Tourism and Recreation
Association (BCTRA) Director Tracey Barrett couldn’t be happier!
Barrett said snowmobile trail grooming equipment usually sits untouched until the Christmas-New Year’s Day week. “Our groomers are out at least a couple of weeks early,” Barrett said. “We’ve never had snow (along the shoreline) this early that I can recall. Last season we didn’t even start grooming until Jan. 16th.” DNR estimates UP hunters shot 36,000 deer; up 6% over 2006
Michigan DNR wildlife officials have announced preliminary
harvest estimates for the 2007 Michigan firearm deer season.
The early estimate indicates approximately 249,000 deer were harvested. An estimated 63 percent were antlered and 37 percent were antlerless. The preliminary harvest estimate is based upon information available immediately following the firearm season. This includes observations by employees, hunters and processors, along with the number of deer license buyers, licenses sold and the number of deer voluntarily brought in to DNR check stations. First buck!
Firearm deer season one of UP's better hunts
The firearm deer season of 2007 was the best the region has
seen for the past five years.
A total of 227 deer was voluntarily registered at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) field office in Baraga between Nov. 15-30, 2007. The harvest reflects an increase of 16 percent over last year’s tally. “Our low was 149 deer registered in 2003, and we registered 229 deer in 2002,” commented DNR Wildlife Biologist Rob Aho. “This stacks up as a pretty good deer season.” Breaking down the figures even further, Aho noted this year’s head count included 210 bucks, 13 adult does, three female fawns and a buck fawn. Of the bucks registered in Baraga, 56 percent were aged at 1 ½ years old.
HOME LOCAL NEWS SPORTS LIFESTYLE HISTORY PICS CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISING INFO CRITTER CORNER LEGISLATURE OBITUARIES OUTDOORS PUBLIC NOTICES WEATHER MILITARY PICTURES |
