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September 6, 2005
Greetings!
In this edition of the FOWA Market Newsletter there are multiple current market listings, contests, events, jobs and a whole lot of member news and photos! Look inside for a fascinating newspaper article on one of our most recent members to join, James Pochurek, son of long-time members Jim and Pat Pochurek. TJ Stallings has a message for those corporate sponsors interested in sponsoring events at the Fall Conference in Kissimmee. As always, if you or your company has any market needs or company needs or news, please send them along.
Kelly Braden, FOWA Secretary
KJBraden1@aol.com
From TJ Stallings (Corporate Liaison, Board Member, and representative of TTI Companies):
Hello!
There are just a few Sponsorships available at FOWA’s Fall Conference.
These are “1st come, 1st served.” Your e-mail confirmation to Doug or I will hold your sponsorship.
Sponsors are invited to address the members at the meals. This is an excellent opportunity to put your business in front of the entire membership.
(Remaining Sponsorships Available as of Sept. 5)
FOWA Fall Conference, Oct. 26-30, 2005, Kissimmee, FL
Wednesday, Oct. 26
6 – 7 p.m. Cocktail Hour, Sponsored
7 – 8:30 p.m. Kickoff Dinner & Roast of Lefty Kreh
OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP
9:30 – 10:30 p.m. FOWA Hospitality Suite, Sponsored
Thursday, Oct. 27
10:15 – 10:30 a.m. Morning Break, Sponsored
12 – 1:15 p.m. Lunch at hotel, Sponsored
3:15 – 3:30 p.m. Afternoon Break, Sponsored
6 – 8:30 p.m. Cocktail Hour & Dinner, Sponsored
8:30 – 10 p.m. FOWA Hospitality Suite, Sponsored
Friday, Oct. 28
7 – 11 a.m. Fishing Tournament, Sponsor: Sponsored
12 – 1:15 p.m. Lunch, Sponsored
6 – 7 p.m. Cocktail Hour, OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP
Auction Dinner, Sponsored
10 – 11 p.m. FOWA Hospitality Suite, Sponsored
Saturday, Oct. 29
8 – 8:45 a.m. FOWA Corporate Member Appreciation Breakfast, Sponsored by FOWA
12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Lunch (hotel or TNC/WMA), OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP
6 – 7 p.m. Cocktail Hour, Sponsored
7 – 9 p.m. Exc. in Crafts Banquet/Dinner, Sponsored
10 – ?? FOWA Hospitality Suite, Sponsored
FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED -- Your verbal or emailed commitment holds the Open Sponsorship. Contact Doug or TJ for costs of the sponsorships.
All sponsors receive prominent listing in the Conference Program, exclusive banner visibility at the Conference, exclusive use of brochure table (open throughout the Conference), shown on our web site, listed in our Newsletters, thanked at all meal breaks during the Conference, and shown in all pre- and post-event publicity.
*FOWA is a 501C3 not-for-profit organization, meaning donations for the conference may be tax deductible as well as your auction donation items.
I thank you for your time and consideration.
TJ <')))>{{ (Marketing and Crazy Ideas)
TTI-Blakemore Fishing Group
Home of Tru-Turn, Daiichi, XPoint, Mr. Crappie & StandOUT Hook Brands + Blakemore-Road Runner Lures, Reel Magic
P.O. Box 1177 Wetumpka, AL 36092
Phone:334/567-2011 Fax:567-9788
Outdoor Writers and Dealers may call: 1-800/421-5768 X 203
Proud member of: SEOPA, TOWA, AGLOW, MOC, POWA, WOW and Corporate Liaison for FOWA.
Note: Bleeding Bait Hooks and Tru-Turn Blood Red are registered trademarks of TTI-Blakemore Fishing Group.
NOTE: The terrible conditions in Mississippi and Louisiana due to Hurricane Katrina have undoubtedly affected members of SEOPA and possibly FOWA members from those states as well. TJ Stallings has graciously offered rooms in his house in Wetumpka, Alabama, for those in need. Contact TJ for details.
CURRENT MARKETS
BICYCLING
BICYCLING magazine, published by Rodale Press, seeks freelance writers and photographers who understand cycling and can convey helpful information and passion for the sport. Payment for feature articles (850 to 2,000 words) is negotiable. Pay is upon acceptance for all rights, including the right for reuse in other Rodale Press publications or media. Also purchased is the right to grant reprint permission, unless otherwise negotiated. For more information, visit www.bicycling.com. Send manuscripts with SASE to BICYCLING, 135 N. Sixth St., Emmaus, PA 18098-0099, bicycling@rodale.com. No phone calls.
Boating Life
Boating Life magazine creates four features per issue and assigns them 12 months prior to publication. Compelling stories must offer professional, artistic photography, supplied by manufacturers, tourist agencies or the magazine’s photographer. The editors prefer to have the writer focus on the story while the photographer shoots it. Boating Life always seeks new ideas and new feature writers. Features (1,500 words), with two strong sidebars, pay $600-$800 for Web rights. E-mail queries should demonstrate boating knowledge and your writing style. A list of credits (links to currently published stories) is helpful. Contact Randy Vance, editor in chief, Randy.Vance@worldpub.net.
Buckskinner
Buckskinner, P.O. Box 831, Manchester, MI 48158. Email editor@buckskinnermagazine.com. Website: www.buckskinnermagazine.com. Chris Kolleth, Editor in Chief/Publisher. 30% freelance. "Buckskinner is a family-oriented magazine for black powder shooters and historical reenactors." Warmly welcomes new writers. Circ. 10K. Bi-monthly. Pays 45 days after publication. Period between acceptance and publication varies depending on editorial needs/seasonal focus. Buys one-time rights. No reprints. Responds within a week to email queries, two weeks to hard copy. Sample issue will be available in August. "Contact Buckskinner staff for details at that time. Press kits are currently available including Editorial Calendars and cover mock-ups." Subscription $23.70; not available overseas. Guidelines online at: www.buckskinnermagazine.com/html/writeforus.html.
CURRENT NEEDS: "Historical pieces dealing with the American frontier between circa 1680 through 1840 with focus on early explorers and interesting characters. We are also looking for experienced black powder shooters for advice columns, primitive archery for the same, and old world tradesmen, i.e. blacksmiths, silversmiths, coopers, and gunsmiths. We also accept humor as it pertains to either history or historical reenacting or living history." Pays $100 for feature length articles (1500-2500 words), $15 per photo, if applicable. "Writer gets a byline and receives two complimentary copies of publication. We accept complete manuscripts and will consider proposals. Send a good query and cover letter."
PHOTOS/ART: "Digital format preferred, but we can accept hard copies." Pays $15 per photo, no returns.
HINTS: "Send a well written query. Don't try to wow us or tell us that you are the next Hemingway, Steinbeck, or Hearst; let the material speak for itself. Historical pieces MUST have a bibliography and MUST be accurate. Our target audience is made up of history buffs and they do not tolerate goofs. In order to save the trouble of answering a lot of letters to the editor, your material absolutely must be accurate and documented. We prefer that our writers be outdoor enthusiasts familiar with black powder shooting, rendezvous, the history of the fur trade, and the American Frontier. We do not accept anything to do with inline muzzleloaders or modern firearms."
Deer & Deer Hunting
Deer & Deer Hunting is devoted to deer and deer hunting, focusing on white-tailed deer biology and behavior, management principles and practices, habitat requirements, natural history, hunting techniques and hunting ethics. Readers include individuals who hunt with bow, gun or camera. Freelance material is accepted for the “Deer Browse” department, which contains short items reporting unusual observations of deer behavior, unique hunting experiences and newsworthy information. Pay is $25-$550 for 200-4,000 words with first-time North American rights and possible subsequent publishing rights for other publications. Complete guidelines are at www.deeranddeerhunting.com. E-mail queries to Editor Daniel E. Schmidt at dan.schmidt@fwpubs.com. Deer & Deer Hunting magazine seeks action shots of white-tailed deer in natural settings and hunters engaged in deer hunting and related activities. Allowing the editors to keep slides on file enhances your chances of having photos published. Vertical transparencies that have ample space at the top may be used for the front cover. Do not send duplicates. Pay is $75-$600 (depending on photo type and usage) upon publication. First North American rights are purchased, with subsequent rights for other publications considered. Complete guidelines are at www.deeranddeerhunting.com. Send photos to Daniel E. Schmidt, editor, at dan.schmidt@fwpubs.com, Deer & Deer Hunting, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54990-0001.
Dove Hunter
Dove Hunter magazine is the official magazine of the Dove Sportsman’s Society. This nonprofit organization is currently seeking manuscripts, artwork and photographs that appeal to its special-interest readership of dove and upland game bird aficionados, hunters, professional wildlife managers and art collectors. Pay scale varies according to length, subject matter and submitted photos. First North American or applicable second rights are purchased. Complete guidelines are at www.qu.org/main/magazine/magazine_guidelines.cfm. Contact the magazine department at editor, Dove Hunter magazine, P.O. Box 610, Edgefield, SC 29824-0610; e-mail djtilton@qu.org.
GetOutdoors
GetOutdoors is a growing outdoor media and marketing company devoted to helping people get outdoors quickly and easily and providing information needed to make quick and reliable decisions about where to go, what to buy and what to bring when getting outdoors. Articles are sought for its Web site. Pay is $25-$150 per article, based on length of article and work involved, for first electronic rights. Also sought are writers interested in outdoors blogging. For more information, visit www.getoutdoors.com or e-mail ameron@getoutdoors.com. Contact in-formation is as follows: GetOutdoors, 3288 21st St., Ste. 247, San Francisco, CA 94110, info@getoutdoors.com.
Family Motor Coaching
The Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), a motor home owners association, is holding a convention in Pomona, Calif., in March 2006. Family Motor Coaching magazine, for motor home owners who belong to FMCA, is seeking travel articles about Southern California destinations. Articles should be accompanied by a selection of images and geared toward the motor home traveler. For writers’ guidelines, e-mail pjordan@fmca.com or contact editorial assistant, Family Motor Coaching, 8291 Clough Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45244. Family Motor Coaching buys first North American serial rights and electronic rights. Query deadline is Sept. 15. Visit www.fmca.com for more about FMCA.
Field & Stream
Field & Stream is focused on hunting and fishing, with basic how-it’s-done pieces to carefully crafted features with a philosophical edge. Topics include techniques, natural history, conservation and sportsmen’s secrets. Freelance opportunities include the following: short pieces (250-750 words), feature-length articles (1,000-2,000 words) and departments (maximum 1,000 words). Remember: less is more. Payment ranges from several hundred to several thousand dollars for first North American rights, depending on quality, author’s experience and the difficulty in obtaining the story. Submit a cover letter and query or completed manuscript with SASE to submissions editor (fsletters@time4.com), Field & Stream, 2 Park Ave., 10th Flr., New York, NY 10016.
Fishing World
Fishing World is accepting your 1,800-2,000 word fish stories and photos. Submissions should be sent with a stamped, self-addressed envelope and include a hard copy of the material as well as a floppy disk or CD-Rom copy. For technical details regarding digital shots, please contact Fishing World Designer Pete Wilson-Jones, telephone: 02-9213-8224, or e-mail: peterwilsonjones@yaffa.com.au. Fishing World pays a flat fee of $300 for one-time rights. Complete guidelines are on the Web at www.yaffa.com.au/fw/contributor.htm. Query first with Editor Jim Harnewell at fisho@yaffa.com.au or via telephone at 02-4447-8801.
Flyfisher
Flyfisher seeks articles and photos. Payment is as follows: features: 500-1,500 words, $50-$250; conservation: 500-1,500 words for an individual story or up to 2,500 words for a package, $20-$40 for short conservation stories and $250-$400 for a package. Flyfisher prints black-and-white and color photos. Payment for photos is $15-$35 for black and white; $20-$75 for color inside; $200 for cover. Flyfisher buys first North American serial rights; payment is made on publication. Request guidelines before querying or submitting to Editor Richard Wentz, Flyfisher, Keokee Co. Publishing, P.O. Box 722, Sandpoint, ID 83864; call 208-263-3573; e-mail flyfishermag@keokee.com.
Fur-Fish-Game
Fur-Fish-Game seeks specific how-to fishing stories that go beyond the basics, backed up by an account of the writer experiencing some success using the technique. The more unusual the technique, the better. Top pay for a standard how-to feature is $250; pay is higher for something of special interest. Purchased are first North American serial rights. No phone calls, please. Write to Editor Mitch Cox, Fur-Fish-Game, 2878 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43209; e-mail ffgcox@ameritech.net.
Living Bird
Living Bird magazine is published quarterly by the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, a nonprofit organization devoted to informing and exciting the public about birds. The magazine, distributed both in the United States and abroad, seeks well-written, accurate articles on any subject related to birds – physiology, behavior, habitat, conservation and scientific research. Writers may request complete guidelines by e-mailing livingbird@cornell.edu. Pay is $350 upon publication for a feature-length article (about 2,000 words) for first North American rights. Query (with photos if available) Tim Gallagher, editor in chief, Living Bird, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850. Living Bird magazine welcomes quality original color transparencies in 35-mm format; images must be properly exposed, sharp and attractively composed. The editor always needs stunning photographs to use on covers. Pay rates follow: 1/4 page, $75; 1/2 page, $100; full page, $160; front cover, $200 and back cover, $175. Guidelines are available via e-mail from livingbird@cornell.edu. Submit photographs – certified mail with return-receipt and SASE for return in same manner – to Tim Gallagher, editor in chief, Living Bird, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.
National Wildlife
National Wildlife magazine is published six times a year by the National Wildlife Federation, a nonprofit, non-government organization with 50 state affiliates. The editors need stories of adventure, human interest, an occasional shock, some humor and a little crusading. Stories (700 to 2,500 words) pay $600 and up for all rights to text, reprint and promotional rights, upon acceptance. Text and photo packages also are purchased. Request complete guidelines at PhotoGuide@nwf.org. Submit query letter with clips to Mark Wexler, editor, National Wildlife Federation, 11100 Wildlife Center Dr., Reston, VA 20190. National Wildlife, published by the National Wildlife Federation, is an award-winning, bimonthly conservation magazine known for high-quality photography and reproduction of subjects that encompass the globe. Pay is $275 to $1,250 for one-time rights. The editors currently seek contributions from both professional and outstanding amateur photographers and accept scanned and digital-captured images via e-mail and on CD. Photographers may request complete guidelines at photoguide@nwf.org. New contributors can e-mail samples to photoguide@nwf.org; current contributors can send up to 10 images to JStanley@nwf.org. Submit photo ideas to Photo Director John Nuhn (nuhn@nwf.org), National Wildlife Federation, 11100 Wildlife Center Dr., Reston, VA 20190.
North American Fisherman
North American Fisherman, the official publication of the North American Fishing Club (NAFC), is sent seven times a year to 400,000-plus NAFC members. Features and columns focus on species-specific, how-to and where-to information that goes beyond the basics and includes tips that experienced anglers can use. Submissions must include illustrations or photos. Payment, upon acceptance, is $300-$700 for manuscript packages, $700 for cover photos bought separately, $350 for cover photos purchased with manuscript package, $200 for two-page photo spreads and $100 for photos used full-page or smaller. North American Fisherman purchases first worldwide publication rights plus rights to use material on the NAFC Web site. Send queries (laundry lists acceptable), manuscripts and photos to Editor Kurt Beckstrom at kbeckstrom@namginc.com.
Paint Horse Journal
Paint Horse Journal seeks material for its “Great Rides” page. This page is a quick-read destination piece for horseback-riding enthusiasts. All submissions must include at least two good-quality, well-composed photos of the area, with at least one shot showing a horse and rider. Because the PHJ is a breed publication, the magazine cannot use photos of appaloosas, Arabians or equines that obviously are not paint horses. Photos should have a description of how to get to the location, horse/trailer accommodations at the trailhead and what will be seen on the ride itself (approximately 350-400 words total). Payment is $250 per article, paid on acceptance. Purchased are first North American serial rights. Special needs: rides in the Midwest, Northeast, East and South. Query Dan Streeter at dstreeter@apha.com or call 817-834-2742, ext. 210.
Popular Photography
Popular Photography seeks articles on new or unusual phases of photography that the magazine has not covered recently. No general photography articles are accepted. Technical data should accompany all pictures, including camera used, lens, film (or image format if digital), shutter speed, aperture, lighting and any other points of interest on how the picture was made. Payment varies and is made upon acceptance. For complete guidelines, go to www.popphoto.com, click “about us” and then look for “media kit.” Send query letters with samples of how-to pictures (duplicates only) and SASE to Jason Schneider, editor in chief, Popular Photography, 1633 Broadway, New York, NY 10019; or e-mail John Owens at popeditor@aol.com.
Quail Unlimited
Quail Unlimited magazine is the official magazine of Quail Unlimited. This nonprofit organization currently seeks original or pre-published manuscripts, artwork and photographs that appeal to its special-interest readership of quail and upland game bird aficionados, quail callers, hunters, professional wildlife managers and art collectors. Pay scale varies according to length, subject matter and photos. First North American or applicable second rights are purchased. Complete guidelines are at www.qu.org/main/magazine/magazine_guidelines.cfm. Contact the magazine department at editor, Quail Unlimited Magazine, P.O. Box 610, Edgefield, SC 29824-0610; e-mail editor@qu.org.
Scuba Diving
Scuba Diving seeks active, certified divers who are freelance writers to cover what’s new in dive gear. “Gear Bag” column assignments give hands-on experience with the latest dive gear and gadgets plus the chance to join the magazine’s roster of ScubaLab test divers. The right candidate(s) could see this grow into steady part-time work. Send a cover letter (including dive experience), a resume showing reporting experience and three to five clips to Keith Phillips, senior editor, 6600 Abercorn St., Ste. 208, Savannah, GA 31405; e-mail kphillips@staff.scubadiving.com; call 912-351-6234. Deadline is Sept. 19, 2005.
Shotgun News
Primedia’s Shotgun News seeks your stories about firearms, accessories, ammunition and militaria. Shotgun News is the oldest and largest gun sale publication. This 95-percent freelance-written tabloid publishes every 10 days with an editorial lead time of one month. Acceptable topics include history/nostalgia, how-to and technical. Pay is $200-$500 for articles ranging from 1,000-3,000 words with photos. Sought are first North American rights for text and one-time rights for photos. Visit www.shotgunnews.com for details. Submit queries or questions to sgnews@primedia.com.
Shotgun Sports
Shotgun Sports Magazine seeks articles related to shooting tips and products for trap, skeet and sporting shooters as well as waterfowl/upland and competition-shooting stories for its January-March issues. Shotgun Sports Magazine purchases all rights; however, writers can specify other rights if he/she wants and the editors will consider his/her request. Visit www.shotgunsportsmagazine.com for more information on editorial guidelines. Submit stories and queries at least three to four months before the cover date to Linda Martin, production coordinator, Shotgun Sports Magazine, P.O. Box 6810, Auburn, CA 95604, shotgun@shotgunsportsmagazine.com.
The Sportsman Magazine
The Sportsman Magazine, the magazine and program guide for The Sportsman Channel, is looking to develop relationships with writers and photographers who are interested in gaining additional experience in a nationally distributed market. The editors seek articles related to upland bird hunting – especially a pheasant hunt – whitetail tips and strategies – rifle hunt preferred, and your positive hunting experiences in New Zealand. One-time rights are purchased; previously published articles are welcome. The editors will pay for high-quality articles. Photos are needed with the articles. For details or to submit work samples, contact Michelle Scheuermann at 262-662-3800, ext. 11, or mscheuermann@thesportsmanchannel.com.
OUT-OF-STATE PUBLICATIONS
xplor Magazine
xplor focuses on venues, people, and activities offered in Chattanooga, Tenn., and its surrounding cities. xplor’s tag line is “Come Out and Play,” and stories must capture a place’s essence, inspiring readers to follow your example. Open topic articles are unlimited in length. Departments (400 to 2,500 words) include sidebars. Pay is 25 cents per word for first North American rights. Mail submissions, including a short bio, photography and SASE to xplor Magazine, 735 Broad St., Ste. 708, Chattanooga, TN 37402. Complete guidelines are at www.xplormag.com. For more information, contact Sheryl Montle at sheryl@truenorthcustom.com.
JOBS/ASSIGNMENTS
The Paint Horse Journal
The Paint Horse Journal seeks a writer to compile a feature-length article on trail-riding opportunities in the Northeastern United States. This piece will be included in the Journal's Regional Spotlight piece on the Northeast, which will appear in the May 2006 issue. The writer will contact the region's paint horse clubs for information on popular riding areas and may accompany paint riders on some of the trails. The writer is expected to be familiar with trail riding and be able to provide photo support for the piece. If interested, contact Dan Streeter at dstreeter@apha.com, or write to P.O. Box 961023, Fort Worth, TX 76161.
Southern States Fishn' & Huntn' Magazine
Southern States Fishn' & Huntn' Magazine is looking for Sales Representatives across the state. Contact: Desiree' Harbster, Vice President, PO Box 595, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, Email: sfandginc@yahoo.com
The Orange County Library System
The Orange County Library System is currently searching for local experts on the Central Florida outdoors. This fall our Central Florida Reads pick is River of Lakes by Bill Belleville. The book is a combination of natural history and travelogue featuring the St. Johns River. In addition to encouraging Central Floridians to read the book, we also hope to offer a great deal of educational programming. The Florida Outdoor Writers Association seems to match up perfectly with that goal, and I am writing to ask if you could provide me contact with information for your members in the Central Florida area.
We are seeking speakers, exhibits, and groups to host tables at our information fair. We plan to host programs both at the Main library and the branches throughout the month of October. The opportunities really are wide open. And while we cannot offer financial compensation, we can provide publicity. Each of the Central Florida Reads events will be advertised both in the library newsletter which reaches approximately 80,000 customers and in the Orlando Sentinel.
Please let me know if your group would be interested in participating in any way. You can reach me either by email or at the library's Community Relations office at (407)835-7481.
Katherine Puller, Librarian, Community Relations, Orange County Library System, 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-835-7493 Fax: 407-835-7643
EVENTS
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
620 South Meridian Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 (850) 488-4676
FAX (850) 488-1961 Web site: MyFWC.com
August 23, 2005 FWC SETS SEPT. 21-22 MEETING
AT ST. PETERSBURG BEACH
Contacts: (inland and aquatic issues) Henry Cabbage (850) 488-8843
(marine issues) Lee Schlesinger (850) 487-0554 ext. 216
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will meet at the Trade Winds Grand Resort at St. Petersburg Beach, Sept. 21-22. The meeting will convene at 8:30 a.m. both days.
Wednesday’s (Sept. 21) agenda includes a proposed rule to add measurable biological goals as a consideration for establishing or changing manatee protection zones.
Commissioners also will consider addition of 34 land parcels, totaling 4,838 acres, to the FWC Florida Forever land acquisition list. The property is adjacent to the Yucca Pens Unit of the Babcock-Webb Wildlife Management Area (WMA).
In addition, Commissioners will hear a presentation by Ross Melinchuk of Ducks Unlimited, concerning the Canadian North American Waterfowl Management Plan/North American Wetlands Conservation Act Program and rules of states during Wednesday’s session.
Other matters on Wednesday’s agenda include:
an update by FWC executive director, Ken Haddad, concerning the completed Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy plan,
review and discussion of major proposed changes to wildlife and freshwater fisheries regulations for 2006-07,
an update on migratory bird regulations,
review and discussion concerning allowing dog-hunting on the Tide Swamp Unit of the Big Bend WMA,
Review and discussion of water conditions in the Kissimmee River basin, Lake Okeechobee, St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries and Everglades systems and impacts on fish and wildlife,
Review and discussion of the results of the FWC airboat sound study and recommendations,
Review and discussion of a draft rule to address partnerships and sponsorships to provide information and services to Floridians and visitors about fish and wildlife,
a report on the FWC’s financial business plan, and
an update on the future of hunting in Florida.
Thursday’s session begins with marine fisheries issues, including review and discussion of the request from the National Marine Fisheries Service for FWC to adopt regulations to match Florida recreational harvest rules for grouper in the Gulf of Mexico with interim rules recently enacted in Gulf federal waters. The Commission will also review and discuss Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council grouper management options and receive a report on a proposed industry-funded buy-out of excess fishing effort in the Gulf commercial grouper fishery.
In other marine fisheries actions, the FWC will review and discuss a draft rule that would establish a nontransferable blue crab limited-entry endorsement for displaced net fishermen who have a valid blue crab endorsement but no qualified landings. It also would allow harvest and sale of blue crabs as bycatch in shrimp trawls and stone crab traps. The proposed rule would also allow a blue crab harvester to obtain permission from FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement to allow another person to transport, deploy, pull or retrieve the harvester’s traps for hardship reasons.
In addition, Commissioners will review and discuss the proposed fisheries management plan for Biscayne National Park; proposed National Park Service special regulations for Dry Tortugas National Park that would implement elements of the Park’s general management plan; the feasibility of state management of federally co-managed fisheries; and various federal marine fisheries management issues.
Also on Thursday, Commissioners will consider summaries of multi-agency meeting decisions concerning non-native species in the wild and prevention, eradication and management of several non-native animals.
FWC meetings are open to the public. Anyone requiring special accommodations to participate in the meeting because of a disability should contact Cindy Hoffman at (850) 488-6411 to arrange assistance. Hearing- or speech-impaired persons can arrange assistance by calling (850) 488-9542.
HPC/CR
Agenda Items FWC Sept. 21-22, 2005
St. Petersburg Beach
Wednesday
Executive director’s report
A proposed rule to add measurable biological goals as a consideration for adding or amending manatee protection zones
Review and discussion of major proposed changes to wildlife and freshwater fisheries regulations for 2006-07
Review and discussion concerning allowing dog-hunting on the Tide Swamp Unit of the Big Bend WMA
Migratory bird regulations update
Review and discussion of water conditions in the Kissimmee River basin, Lake Okeechobee, St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries and Everglades systems and impacts on fish and wildlife
Review and discussion of the results of the FWC airboat sound study and recommendations
Review and discussion of a draft rule to address partnerships and sponsorships
Addition of 34 land parcels adjacent to the Babcock-Webb WMA to the land acquisition list
The FWC’s financial business plan
An update on the future of hunting in Florida
A presentation by Ross Melinchuk of Ducks Unlimited
Thursday
Review and discussion of a draft rule to establish nontransferable blue crab limited entry endorsement for displaced netters who have a valid blue crab endorsement but no qualified landings, and for harvest and sale of blue crabs as bycatch in shrimp trawls and stone crab traps and allow blue crab harvesters to obtain permission from the Division of Law Enforcement to allow another person to transport, deploy, pull or retrieve in cases of hardship
Review and discussion of the feasibility of state management of federally co-managed fisheries
Review and discussion of the proposed fisheries management plan for Biscayne National Park
Review and discussion of the request from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for FWC to implement a federal consistency rule to match state rules for recreationally caught grouper in the Gulf of Mexico with those established by NMFS in its interim rule published July 25 and options for management of groupers through the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council
A report on a proposed industry buy-out of excess effort in the commercial grouper fishery in the Gulf of Mexico
Review and discussion of proposed National Park Service special regulations for Dry Tortugas National Park
Summary of multi-agency meeting decisions regarding exotics (non-native species)
Prevention, eradication and management of several exotic animals
A Commission meeting improvement process
From Rodney Smith:
3rd Annual Indian River Lagoon's Fall Classic "Catch, Photo & Release" Tournament
Chowders Seafood Grill and Coastal Angler Magazine are organizing their 3rd annual Indian River Lagoon's Fall Classic "Catch, Photo & Release" Tournament, scheduled for October 22nd. This year's tournament will benefit the Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation and Port Canaveral's Kids Fishing Day.
The CPR tournament promotes the use, not abuse, of the IRL through education and conservation. In addition, the event strives to bring together sponsors who are concerned with preserving North America's most diverse estuary. Located on the west shore of the IRL in Rockledge, Chowders is famous for its beautiful IRL setting, food and drinks, and will host the Captain's Party and Tournament Ceremony.
Last year's tournament was a huge success and one grand social event. More than 50 sponsors and 120 anglers helped support the tournament's mission of responsible use of the IRL. Anglers competed for cash and prizes by fishing for black and red drum, flounder, mangrove snapper, pompano, snook, Spanish mackerel and spotted sea trout. The tournament raised more than $3,000 for its beneficiaries.
If you are interested in sponsoring or participating, please contact:
CAM
1290 AIA;Suite 103
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Attention: IRL Fall Classic
CONTESTS
$1,000 Photo Contest
Your picture may be worth $1,000! Enter it in a photo contest sponsored by Extensis Software, Red River Inkjet Papers, Auto FX Software and PictoColor Corp. Annual and monthly competitions are held. The competition includes divisions for both amateurs and professionals. Either self-made or commercial-made prints are accepted. Both film and digital camera photographs are accepted. Prints may be in color, black and white or hand-tinted. Earn the National Photographer of the Year title in either amateur or professional divisions. Entrants retain copyrights to photos. Visit www.NationalPhoto
Awards.com for more details, or contact Dian Garber at awards@mncable.net.
FundsForWriters’ 2005 Essay Contest
FundsForWriters’ 2005 Essay Contest is themed “They Actually Paid Me to Write.” Submit an original, unpublished essay, up to 700 words, by Oct. 31, 2005. Two categories are open to entrants. Paying a $5 entry fee makes entrants eligible for a $150 first prize. Paying no entry fee makes entrants eligible for a $50 first prize. In both categories, second prize is $30. There is no limit to the number of submissions. Winners will be announced on Dec. 1, 2005. One-time electronic rights are purchased. For guidelines and details, visit www.fundsforwriters.com/annualcontest.htm.
MEMBER NEWS
Long time members Jim and Pat Pochurek's son, James, has recently become a member of FOWA. The following article appeared in the Ocala Star-Banner about James:
Preserve & protect
Archaeologist wins environmental award, appears in Men's Journal for bringing life to Citra land
BY LASHONDA STINSON, THE OCALA STAR-BANNER
Living the suburban life just didn't cut it for James Pochurek.
He grew up in Tarpon Springs and had moved to an historic neighborhood in Gainesville, but deep inside the wild is where he wanted to dwell.
So in 1998, he traded in shopping centers and traffic jams for pasture land and open woods when he bought 140 acres of undeveloped land in Citra. In an effort to preserve the land, he single-handedly embarked on a wildlife habitat restoration project to "restore the forest and waterways for future generations of wildlife and people."
With a one-man crew and his trusty chain saw, he cleared wide areas of oak and in its place hand-planted almost 5,000 longleaf pine seedlings. He also maintained wildlife food plots and conducted prescribed burns in the woods.
For this, Pochurek, 37, currently appears in the September issue of Men's Journal magazine as the winner of the first Jhane Barnes Environmental Ambassador Award. Barnes is a fashion designer committed to preserving the environment and wanted to honor those who go "above and beyond the call of duty" to ensure a safer environment.
Now, beyond the rusting gate and down the worn path awaits a natural oasis for deer, bear, fox, turkey, rock lizards, quail and a laundry list of other animals. Large egrets rest around the edges of the still pond, while Florida cracker cows take refuge under the shade of old trees. Bees, dragonflies, butterflies and a swarm of other winged creatures buzz and flap throughout the air and within the vegetation.
Just to see things taking shape on the property, Pochurek said, is personally rewarding, but the national magazine thought his hard work deserved recognition.
Pochurek's essay was chosen out of 100 received from across the country, said Artie Athas, special events director for Men's Journal.
"James' story certainly stood out among all the stories that were submitted," Athas said. "We had finalists that all had good stories, but his was more of an individual effort. . . . It was unique because of the personal effort he put forth."
Pochurek works as an archaeologist with Southeastern Archaeological Research Inc. outside of Gainesville, a company that conducts archaeological surveys to discover Native Americans and early American sites before they are destroyed. And through this work, he said, he developed both a love of wild Florida and the desire to keep it that way.
James Pochurek leans against the door of the barn he built and lives in on his Citra property. Pochurek appears in the September issue of Men's Journal for winning the Jhane Barnes Environmental Ambassador Award for his wildlife habitat restoration process.
PHOTOS BY DOUG ENGLE/STAR BANNER
"Seeing tangible results from your efforts is a great feeling and knowing that we're making a difference towards a better Florida."
James Pochurek
archaeologist/environmentalist
ONE MAN, ONE CHAIN SAW
It all started when Pochurek sold that Gainesville house he had become bored with and his motorcycle, boat and stock account to buy the land. The first year he lived in a tent and an RV. After saving some money, he upgraded to a 1973 single-wide trailer. A year later he met his wife, Jennifer, and built a pole barn in a loft-style fashion.
To jump-start restoring the habitat, he got involved with Florida's Forest Stewardship Program. He received expert advice from foresters and biologists and they helped him write a plan for the property, which outlined a schedule for burns, cuttings, mowing and other land management routines.
"It's definitely a lot of work, too much to tackle all at once, so you sort of select out little projects you can reasonably do and just do enough of those and you start seeing some real changes," he said, sitting at a small dinette table in the barn. "You stick to the schedule and the plan, then all of a sudden things start happening."
One of the biggest indicators that Pochurek was on the right track was when more wildlife started popping up. "The wildlife has definitely increased since we started doing all these little practices," he said. He added the project is still an ongoing one, and he has more clearing, burning and planting to do.
James Pochurek's feature page in the September issue of Men's Journal.
Living amongst the wildlife isn't as scary as people think, the couple said. None of the encounters or experiences have been life threatening or dangerous - but just the opposite. One Christmas his wife put out decorations, including a natural wreath decorated with nuts and berries. It caught the attention of a bear.
"It was long gone the next morning," said Jennifer Pochurek, 37. "Just the ribbon was left - and footprints."
Although the couple, married two years, live in Gainesville, they still visit and work on the property on a regular basis. They plan to move back to the property and add on to the barn. Jennifer Pochurek said she's always had a love of nature, but never thought she'd be living "in the middle of nowhere."
"I'm definitely not out there chain-sawing. I'll help him haul away logs once in a while, but I think I provide just more of the moral support," said Jennifer Pochurek, who works in membership and development for the Florida Museum of Natural History. "I've grown to love what he does and definitely support and enjoy it . . . Although the progress and the change is very slow, when you do start to see it, it makes it all worthwhile."
James Pochurek and his wife Jennifer pet one of their 4 cows while walking on their 140 acre home in Citra.
AND THE WINNER IS. . .
The couple ran across the ad for the contest one night while at the barn lying in bed.
"I was sure I wouldn't get a call back. I didn't think this was the sort of project they were looking for. I thought it was more recycling, saving the whales type of thing, " he said. "Then, I got a call at work from a guy who said he was with Men's Journal and I thought my subscription had lapsed or something. He told me I was one of three finalists and I got very excited."
A few days later he found out he won.
With the win, came an all-expense paid trip to New York. They stayed in a "swank" hotel and ate lavish dinners with Men's Journal executives and designer Barnes. Also, he received a Jhane Barnes wardrobe and a donation made in his name to the Nature Conservancy. He was presented the award in May at the offices of Wenner Media (publisher of Men's Journal and Rolling Stone) overlooking Rockefeller Center, where he gave an eloquent acceptance speech.
"It was fabulous. We were treated like stars," Jennifer said. "It was lots of fun."
In his acceptance speech, James Pochurek said "There are two things that make this life worth living: love and legacy." So what is it that he most loves about what he's doing?
"Seeing the progress. Seeing tangible results from your efforts is a great feeling and knowing that we're making a difference towards a better Florida," he said with a look of sincerity in his bright, blue eyes. "I like to think we're setting an example that anybody can do little things to help out.
"As an average person, I did it. You just have to want to do it."
__________
Lashonda Stinson can be reached at lashonda.stinson@starbanner.com or 867-4129.
CORPORATE NEWS
From Paul Shafland, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission:
Snakehead Myth
Two species of snakeheads are reproducing in the continental United States. These are the Northern Snakehead, which is reproducing in the Potomac River and a South Philadelphia pond, and the Bullseye Snakehead, which is reproducing in a southeast Florida urban canal system.
“Unfortunately, the public is reading, hearing, and seeing reports describing these fishes as ‘Frankenfish’ or the ‘fish from hell,’ said Paul Shafland, a fisheries scientist and member of FOWA. He's spent more than 30 years studying exotic fish at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Non-Native Fish Laboratory in Boca Raton. But Shafland urges the public to be skeptical about some of the things they have heard and read about these fishes, and most notably the Northern Snakehead.
According to some accounts, “This alleged monster eats anything in its path, can walk on land, survive up to three days out of water, and will even attack and kill people when guarding its young!"
“That’s great story lines for Hollywood movies, but it is not accurate news,” Shafland said.
“The appearance of any illegally introduced exotic fish is cause for concern, but not the recent hysteria we’ve been reading about with the snakehead. This is not a short-term crisis, but a long-term problem with less than catastrophic but no less real and unpredictable consequences,” said Jon R. Fury, FWC Senior Fisheries Scientist for the South Florida Region.
“Let me assure you that the discovery of the Bullseye Snakehead in Florida waters is not something to dismiss lightly,” Fury said. “In some cases, the presence of an exotic species can alter the ecosystem to the detriment of native species.”
“In such cases as this, we follow our well-established protocol for dealing with these matters rather than running about shouting: ‘The sky is falling! The sky is falling!’” Shafland said. “And this is not the first time that an exotic fish has stimulated such an end-of-the-ecosystem-as-we-know-it type of hysteria; in fact, it is very reminiscent of the same distorted coverage the Walking Catfish received back in the late 1960s and 70s.”
The real story here is that numerous unwanted exotic animals continue to be released into North America and elsewhere by well-meaning but misinformed individuals. Not only is this illegal, it is ecologically irresponsible, and often harmful to the animal itself.
Shafland points out that 32 exotic fish species have been found reproducing in Florida’s freshwaters, and 22 of these are considered permanent residents. In few cases, FWC has been able to quickly eliminate new exotic species, but because most are found in open and interconnected waterways, eradication is not generally feasible.
Therefore, the Bullseye Snakehead cannot be eradicated or trapped out of existence. “It’s here to stay, unless they somehow disappear on their own, something no one is expecting them to do” Shafland said.
Florida scientists have collected and observed thousands of Bullseye Snakehead during the last few years, with the largest of these weighing just over nine pounds and measuring up to 33.5 inches long, according to Shafland.
"Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!" Sarasota Fishing Seminar Rescheduled to Sept. 23-25, 2005
8/05 - The popular "Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!"® fishing seminar which was set for Aug. 26-28, 2005 has been rescheduled to Sept. 23-25, 2005, in Sarasota, FL! This award-winning program, hosted by Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and presented by Mercury Outboards, has rescheduled its third annual seminar in Sarasota to Sept. 23-25, 2005 at the Sarasota Yacht Club. The Sarasota Hyatt is still the host hotel.
The seminar will kick off with a welcome reception at the Sarasota Yacht Club on Friday evening, Sept 23. The classroom portion starts at 7:30 am on Saturday, Sept. 24, where fishing techniques will be taught at beginner and intermediate/advanced levels by expert instructors. Fishing topics will be: Rod and Reel Basics (for beginners), Inshore, Offshore, Bottom and Fly. After lunch, the women will participate in several "hands-on" fishing stations, such as conservation techniques, spin casting, net casting, landing and releasing, knot tying, gaffing grapefruits, boat handling, trailer backing and reeling against pressure. On Sunday, Sept. 25, a fishing trip is offered, concluding with a fillet class. There will be opportunities for local businesses and area anglers to participate.
Featured on Inside Edition and more, the series is supported by the FWC through the Sport Fish Restoration Program and by partners such as Mercury Outboards, Bass Pro Shops, Ranger, Boat/U.S. Marine Insurance, Gulfstream Int'l Airlines, Lowrance, Shakespeare Fishing Tackle, Viper Bob's Fighting Gimbals, Magic Tilt Trailers and Marine Industries Association of South Florida. The 2005 LLGF seminar series wraps up the year with a seminar in Islamorada, FL/Oct. 14-16.
Registration for the Sarasota seminar, which should be made one week in advance at the latest, is $120, including meals, T-Shirts, goody bags, door prizes and more. The fishing adventure, with fishing tackle and bait provided, is additional. Contact: LLGF, P.O. Box 550429, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33355, phone 954-475- 9068, fax 954-474-7299, toll free information 1-888- 321-LLGF (5543), email: billfishbetty@hotmail.com, website: www.ladiesletsgofishing.com.
CALENDAR INFORMATION: "Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!"® saltwater fishing seminar for women, Sept. 23-25, 2005, Sarasota Yacht Club, Sarasota, FL. $120 registration includes Welcome party, classes at beginner/advanced levels, lunch, hands-on skill stations, fish fillet class, T-shirt, goody bag and more. Fishing adventure fees additional. Contact "Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!", P.O. Box 550429, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33355, phone 954-475-9068, fax 954-474-7299, toll free information 1-888-321-LLGF (5543), email: billfishbetty@hotmail.com, website: www.ladiesletsgofishing.com. (Photos available)
View Photos from Last Year's Sarasota Seminar! »
Wheelin' Sportsmen NWTF Heads to Walt Disney World® Resort
Courtesy of the National Wild Turkey Federation
Wheelin’ Sportsmen NWTF is hosting the Wheelin’ Sportsmen Ultimate Fishing Fantasy at Walt Disney World® Resort September 22 – 25 for children with disabilities.
This is the first fishing event at Walt Disney World® Resort for children with disabilities.
Wheelin' Sportsmen NWTF is dedicated to providing people with disabilities, including hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts with disabilities, opportunities to participate in outdoor activities.
Visit www.nwtf.org/nwtf_newsroom/press_releases.php?id=11591 for complete press release and photos.
Contact:
Mike Blanton, Wheelin’ Sportsmen NWTF regional event coordinator, (352) 212-9718
Kirk Thomas, Wheelin’ Sportsmen NWTF national coordinator and founder, (803) 637-3106
Becky Dedo, Community Projects Manager, Disney Sports Attractions, (407) 938-3410
For more information, contact Jonathan Harling or Allison Kotowski at (803) 637-3106.
Allison Kotowski, Public Relations Specialist, National Wild Turkey Federation, Phone: 803-637-3106 ext. 3159, Fax: 803-637-0034, PO Box 530, Edgefield, SC 29824 Email: akotowski@nwtf.net, Website: www.nwtf.org
Submitted by Susan Young:
DOA Lures
Over 40 Halifax Sport Fishing Club members enjoyed an evening with lures guru Mark Nichols. Mark showed the group everything from new lures and fluorocarbon to his rattling float rig and leader knots. His stories of fishing misadventures had anglers laughing and shaking their heads in agreement. Mark gave away lures and answered questions to wrap up the evening. (He'll be at the Orlando Florida Sportsman Show November 12 and 13.) For more info see www.DOAlures.com . Captain Nichols supports catch-and-release and CCA.
Photo credits: Susan Young
Submitted by Susan Young:
Florida Trail Association
Volusia County: 17 members of Florida Trail Association enjoyed an early morning hike led by author Sandra Friend. They were entertained by antics from family groups of scrub jays. Hikers were surprised to see an unusual array of native plants from cactus and reindeer moss to "British soldier" lichen. (Named for its little red caps.) The Lyonia Preserve also boasts the highest point in Volusia county, as well as ephemeral ponds in its wetland areas.
Photo credit Susan Young
An FTA member has a scrub jay sit on her hand for the first time. Sandra Friend (orange shirt) telling the group about the scrub habitat.
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