Category Archives: Awards

River rafting to study fish

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A raft donated by a group of Trout Unlimited members is helping MassWildlife biologists study trout and other fish in previously inaccessible areas.

This generous donation came from a group of Trout Unlimited (TU) members who have been working with MassWildlife and other scientists on studies of brown trout reproduction on the Deerfield River. The whitewater river raft is outfitted with a standing platform, booms, droppers, generator equipment, and livewell. “You run a reach of river with two people, one rower to navigate the river, the other biologist to stun and net the fish,” explains Adam Kautza, MassWildlife’s Coldwater Fisheries Project Leader. “After passing through a particular reach, we pull off to the side of the river, measure, weigh and gather other data from the netted fish, release them back in the water and then move on to the next river segment.”
MassWildlife biologists primarily use two different types of equipment to conduct fisheries surveys. For lakes, ponds and large, deeper rivers, a motorboat outfitted with a generator, booms, and “droppers” is the standard. In brooks, streams, and smaller rivers, a team of biologists navigate the streambed on foot carrying backpack shockers and electrical wands to temporarily stun and collect fish. But in rock-strewn fast-moving rivers like the Millers, Deerfield, and others, neither a motorboat nor backpack shockers are practical. As a result, numerous reaches of rivers are inaccessible and go unsurveyed.
MassWildlife biologists are already using the raft as part of a brown trout study that will answer an important question: Are wild-hatched brown trout surviving and successfully reproducing in the Deerfield River? The study will also give biologists an understanding of the abundance, growth rates and other important biological information on brown trout in the Deerfield River system. Multiple survey trips will be necessary over a large area of the river and the raft makes that coverage possible. In the future, the raft will be pressed into fish survey service on other rocky rivers such as the Hoosic, Westfield, and Millers Rivers.
The donation of the 12-foot raft, frame, and equipment such as oars, seating, anchors, etc. was donated by former fishing guide Jim Dowd, of Ashfield. MA, who is a member of the Deerfield River Watershed Chapter (DRWTU) . These donated items have a price-tag of about $3800.

Last May, at the Indian Hollow Campground in Chesterfield, the MA/RI Council of Trout Unlimited (of which the local Taconic Chapter is part) voted to spend up to $3,900 to help equip the raft with necessary shocking equipment, such as booms, paddles and related circuitry. The Greater Boston TU Chapter (GBTU) picked up the tab for a portion of the cost for a new frame. The raft will be used to study cold-water fisheries on colder rivers throughout Massachusetts. The TU logo will be affixed to the raft.

A variety of people, businesses, and groups were thanked for their contributions to MassWildlife’s new river raft. The raft’s custom-built standing platform was manufactured by Don Barnes, a Millers River TU member and president of Regal Vise, a family-owned business producing fly tying vises. The DRWTU and the GBTU chapters contributed fish tags, which will be used in the Deerfield River Brown Trout study. Kevin Parsons, President of the DRWTU chapter, Bill Pastuzek, President of the GBTU, MA/RI Council President Paul Beaulieu, Council Secretary/Treasurer Mike Vito and Gary Crago of the TU National Council were thanked by MassWildlife for making a key contribution to conservation, providing MassWildlife with the means to further its understanding of some of our most pristine rivers and the fish communities inhabiting them.
TU is a national non-profit organization with about 300,000 members and supporters dedicated to conserving, protecting and restoring North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds. It is made up of some 400 chapters and 38 state councils. The MA/RI Council of TU is the umbrella organization for the 14 chapters in Massachusetts and Rhode Island totaling about 4,000 members. Members from all of those chapters contributed in some way to the Deerfield River project, either by funding or volunteering on Deerfield River trout surveys.
Guess who was the winner of TU National’s 2019 Gold Trout Award? DRWTU, who else? It also recently received $6,000 from TU National’s Embrace-A-Stream Program. Now it is eligible to compete for additional dollars through an online challenge grant. TU National and Orvis have teamed up to offer an additional $50,000. DRWTU hopes to qualify for at least a piece of that additional money.
Incidentally, at its Annual Meeting on November 19, the GBTU Chapter honored MassWildlife’s Adam Kautza, with its Conservation Advocate Award. The award recognized Kautza’s contributions to the understanding and preservation of coldwater fishery resources in Massachusetts. He was lauded for his efforts in working not only with GBTU but with the MA/RI Trout Unlimited Council and other Massachusetts Trout Unlimited Chapters. “Adam provided valuable assistance with the TU Brown Trout Spawning Study on the Deerfield River and has offered presentations and stream walks on the tributaries of the Neponset and Charles River,” said GBTU President Bill Pastuszek. “Through his outreach efforts, he has built stronger ties with the angler and conservation communities.”

Taconic TU honors Fran Marzotto

In order to recognize its deserving members, the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited instituted its “Crooked Staff Award” about 35 years ago. Every year the Chapter selects one of its members to receive this coveted award. He or she is selected as the member who best represents the ideals of T.U. (conserving, protecting and restoring North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds). This member holds the Crooked Staff for the following year when it is either passed on to another deserving member or is held, if none is deemed deserving.

On December 12, the Chapter honored Fran Marzotto of Pittsfield with this coveted award.

Fran grew up in West Stockbridge, spending his time in the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and playing baseball and hockey. At an early age, Fran tagged along with his father as they hunted for deer. He also fished with his dad and as he grew older, continuing to enjoy outdoor sports.
Fran graduated from Purdue University in 1977 and began his career at General Electric. Being a sportsman, he settled in the Berkshires where he could enjoy the 4 seasons and the sport that each season brought.
Three years ago, when Fran retired, he returned to a sport he had enjoyed before…fly fishing. He is now totally absorbed in fly fishing along with tying his own flies, as they both bring serenity to his life. He has fly fished in 16 states including Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, New Brunswick, Montana, Newfoundland, New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee, Washington, and Wyoming, as well as all of the Northeast states and has a trip planned to the Bahamas to fly fish for bonefish. Fran practices “catch and release”.
Fran’s wife Kay said he doesn’t only enjoy the sport he is into, but “becomes” it. At present his life is centered around fly fishing; no matter where they travel, he is always on the lookout for fly fishing streams. Good thing Kay is patient.
In addition to serving on Taconic TU’s Board and as its Secretary, Fran’s other conservation activities include participation in this year’s stream assessment of the Konkapot River with the Housatonic Valley Association. He also is a past member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, serving on its Annual Fund-Raising Committee. Congratulations Fran!
George “Gige” Darey Passed
It is with a heavy heart that I report that “Gige” Darey passed beyond the ridge on Friday afternoon. I hope to devote the bulk of next week’s column to this extraordinary sportsman and his amazing career.
Here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

 

George (Gige) Darey received a most prestigious award

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Last Tuesday, Lenox resident George L. (Gige) Darey, former board member and chairman of the Massachusetts Fisheries and Wildlife Board, received the Francis W. Sargent Conservation Award from the Fisheries and Wildlife Board for his contributions to the sporting community and to the conservation of the Commonwealth’s natural resources. The Sargent Award honors the former governor and noted conservationist who directed the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) in 1963-64.

Darey, a lifelong angler and hunter, received the award – a framed photograph of
a loon by the late MassWildlife photographer Bill Byrne – at a ceremony held at
the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club. In addition, Senator Adam Hinds presented Darey with
a Senate citation honoring his award. The ceremony was attended by MassWildlife
Director Mark Tisa, Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Ron Amidon as well
as representatives from state environmental agencies, sporting and other local
conservation organizations, previous Sargent award attendees and family members.

“I have been following conservation issues all my life and served in the Fisheries and Wildlife Board (F&W) with Gige Darey since 1986,” said Board Vice President Mike Roche. “No individual I know has ever had a greater positive impact or contributed more to the natural resources of Massachusetts in so many critical ways. “

“I have been lucky to be involved for so many years with something I love. It has been a fun ride,” said Darey, “I have been even more fortunate to have worked with and get to know so many people and organizations with a passion for our environment. Words can’t express how much this day and what you all mean to me.”

Representing the Western Wildlife District on the F&W Board, Gige served for 38 years, 35 of which he was chairman, until December of 2016. He served under eight different governors and worked with four MassWildlife Directors.

During his tenure on the F&W Board, Gige was instrumental in generating public support for important wildlife issues including funding of the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program; the establishment of the Wildlands Conservation Stamp, a $5 assessment to the sale of hunting and fishing licenses dedicated exclusively to the protection of wildlife habitat open to hunting, fishing and other wildlife related recreation; and science-based management of wildlife and wildlife habitat. He was honored by the F&W Board in 2004 when the Housatonic Valley Wildlife Management Area in Lenox was renamed the George Darey Wildlife Management Area.

Darey, a retired teacher has been a long-time environmental advocate for the Berkshires since returning from military service. He served on the first Lenox Conservation Commission as well as on the Board of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions and served on the Lenox Board of Selectmen. Darey has a BA from the State University of New York (Plattsburg) and an MS from the University of Massachusetts.

His leadership role in environmental stewardship was recognized in 1996 when he was presented a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Award. He is a board member of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council, Green Berkshires, and of Sportsmen for Land Preservation. He is also a founding member of the Housatonic River Initiative, the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation, Lenox Land Trust and was instrumental in forging forestland protection and management partnerships between MassWildlife and the Nature Conservancy, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and the National Wild Turkey Federation.

He was also heavily involved with the Edith Wharton House, Shakespeare and Company, coached cross country ski teams, was a guide for Canyon Ranch and started a high school fish and game club.

Established in 2000 by the F&W Board, Darey is the 14th recipient of the Sargent award and is the 3rd person from our area to receive it. The late Ted Giddings received it in 2003 for his many years of writing the Our Berkshires’ outdoor column for the Berkshire Eagle. In 2016, the Berkshire Natural Resources Council received it for its near 50 years of protecting the open spaces of Berkshire County, owning and managing over 10,000 acres and protecting more than that through conservation restrictions.

Private/Public Partnership Results in Enhanced Access to Three Mile Pond

Board members of the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation (MOHF) were joined by officials from MassWildlife and the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) in mid-October to mark the completion of a joint recreational public access project at Three Mile Pond Wildlife Management Area (WMA) on Brush Hill Road in Sheffield.
An existing access at Three Mile Pond was improved and a new gravel parking lot and pond access was created on the upper end of the pond. In addition, two new signs were installed noting the public access points and available opportunities for waterfowl hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Attendees were given an overview of the completed project by Andrew Madden, MassWildlife Western District Supervisor. Three Mile Pond is approximately 160 acres in size with a large area of wetlands. It is part of a 1000+-acre WMA managed by MassWildlife for wildlife, habitat and wildlife-related recreation. The WMA is stocked with pheasants in the fall and mowed annually to maintain field and shrubland habitat for many kinds of wildlife.

“The Foundation is excited to enhance access to Three Mile Pond for hunters, paddlers, wildlife enthusiasts, and most importantly future generations of outdoorspeople—an activity which aligns with the Foundation’s mission,” said MOHF board member and former Secretary of Environmental Affairs Bob Durand. “It was great to partner with Ducks Unlimited (DU) and MassWildlife on this important project.”

“We truly appreciate the commitment of DU and the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation who provided the funds to make this project a reality,” said MassWildlife Director Mark Tisa. “Access to the outdoors is in high demand in Massachusetts and this project helps address the outdoor community’s needs.”

“The Department of Fish and Game is happy to see the partnerships with NGOs such as the Outdoor Heritage Foundation and Ducks Unlimited continue to grow,” said Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Ron Amidon. “Anytime we can help with access projects to support outdoor recreation, our engineering staff from the Office of Fishing and Boating Access is pleased to contribute.”

“DU would like to thank the partners for advancing such a great access project,” said Sarah Fleming, DU Manager of Conservation Programs in the North Atlantic. “We are pleased to be able to support our partners, volunteers and outdoor enthusiasts by helping increase access to public recreational areas that all users can enjoy. We look forward to continuing to work with the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation and MassWildlife on other projects that will not only benefit waterfowl and other wetlands wildlife, but will also benefit people.”

(Most of the above Darey and Three Mile Pond information came from MassWildlife press releases.)

Multi-Gun Event
The Lee Sportsmen’s Association, 565 Fairview Street, Lee, is hosting a Fall Finale Multi-Gun event next Sunday, November 11. It is a 2-gun (pistol/shotgun) event with 6 stages including IDPA, USPSA and Action Steel. There will be a safety briefing at 9:45 am and the event will start at 10:00am. Participants will need at least 30 rounds shotgun and 150 rounds pistol. The event, which is open to members and the public, costs $25 with lunch available for purchase. For more information, contact Shawn Sullivan at ssullee@icloud.com.
Bear Hunting
The Second Season of bear hunting opens tomorrow and runs through November 24. During this season only rifle, muzzleloader and archery hunting is allowed (no pistols or shotguns). A hunter orange hat is required on WMAs stocked with pheasant or quail during the pheasant or quail season.

 

Drivers beware of amorous deer

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Last weekend I bumped into old buddy Ken Kirchener on Ashmere Lake in Hinsdale When he saw me, he shouted over the boat engine noise, “I have a story for you”. He had witnessed an interesting event and wondered if readers would find it interesting, too.
On September 1 around 11:30 am, Ken was driving along the Skyline Trail in Hinsdale and on a manicured lawn, he spotted a doe walking along a hedge row. Right out of nowhere there appeared a spike-horn buck behind it. The doe crossed the road but the buck was leery, stopped and looked at Ken. The doe went back across the road to where the buck was standing. Then the doe crossed the road again and this time the buck followed her and stood in the middle of the road. Suddenly behind him there appeared another larger deer. That one was a 4-pt buck.
Then the spike-horned buck turned and the two bucks began fighting thrashing their hooves at one another while standing on their hind legs, right on the blacktop in the middle of the road. “It was just like a boxing match” said Ken. The doe was just standing there on the sideline watching.
The doe then moved into the brush and right behind her went the spike. The 4-pointer followed behind the spike. When a car approached Ken had to move, but when he was able to see the deer again, all three of them were just off the side of the road in some big tall golden rods. Both buck’s antlers were still in velvet.
I asked Ken who won the boxing match but Ken couldn’t tell. He doesn’t usually referee buck fights but he assumes that the spike won because he was the one immediately behind the doe when they went into the woods.
Could this be classified as road rage? Wouldn’t you think those bucks would settle such matters out behind the barn? And the audacity of that doe, is there no modesty left?
Seriously folks Massachusetts deer usually breed between late October and early December. Apparently, these deer were jumping the gun a little bit. During the rutting season, bucks are more active throughout the day than usual and they often chase does across roads without hesitation. MassWildlife urges drivers to be extra cautious and slow down during the fall.

Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp

On August 17, the traditional outdoor-graduation ceremony of the Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp (MJCC) in Russell, MA took place.
Since 1949, the MJCC has provided young people with a unique experience of conservation, shooting sports and outdoor recreation education. The 12-day program introduces girls and boys ages 13 to 17-years old to the ethical responsibilities of hunting and fishing in order to foster careful stewardship of natural resources, connections with natural resource professionals and opportunities to learn or enhance their outdoor skills.
During the Graduation Ceremony, awards for the Camp Competition Day were presented and congratulations were offered by Stephen Johnson, MJCC Board President, Ron Amidon, Department of Fish & Game Commissioner and Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) Director Mark Tisa.

John Gaj of Blandford, MA took first place in archery. Assistant Instructor Jordan Peck of Peru was acknowledged for catching his first fish. Super campers were identified by camp staff for their outstanding leadership skills and compassion. One of the 2019 Super Campers was Kaela Martin of Sheffield.

“We greatly appreciate the support of our camp partners,” said Stephen Johnson, “We are especially grateful for the long-term commitment to Conservation Camp by MassWildlife, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the Environmental Police and the Gun Owners Action League. He thanked Dick’s Sporting Goods, Cabela’s, and other sporting goods stores for donations of outdoor equipment for camper use. He also noted that 85% of campers’ tuitions were funded by generous individuals, local and regional sporting clubs and civic organizations. MassWildlife Director Mark Tisa, a past MJCC camper, told campers that his experience at camp years ago inspired him to pursue a career in fisheries.

Campers learn how to safely use firearms, archery, fishing, navigation and camping gear. State Hunter Education courses from MassWildlife and a Safe Boating course are taught by the Environmental Police. Shooting certification in several courses is also offered. Fish and wildlife biologists from MassWildlife and forestry professionals from DCR provide instruction in wildlife, forestry, and fisheries management. Fishing, hiking, outdoor cooking, navigating with GPS and compass, and survival skills learning are provided by experienced outdoor instructors.

Learn more by visiting www.juniorconservationcamp.org or the Camp Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Mass-Junior-Conservation-Camp-. The MJCC email is: MAJuniorCamp@gmail.com. The MJCC Board welcomes support for the Conservation Camp through tax-deductible donations.

Parsons Marsh
The Berkshire Natural Resources Council invites you to celebrate the opening of the new accessible trail at Parsons Marsh in Lenox next Saturday, September 15 from 9 am to noon. The event schedule is as follows: 9:00 am Bird Walk with well-known Berkshire birder Ed Neumuth, 10:00 am Music, Kid’s Crafts, 10:30am Ribbon Cutting 10:45 am Music, Cider Pressing, Kid’s Crafts, Explore the new trail.
Parking is available at the Stonover Farm’s Event Parking Area, across from 169 Undermountain Rd, Lenox, MA 01240. Carpooling and walking are encouraged.
This is a cooperative trail project between Berkshire Natural Resources Council, the Town of Lenox through its Community Preservation Fund, and the Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program and was also supported by the Lenox Land Trust.
The MassWildlife Habitat Management Grant Program
This program provides financial assistance to private and municipal landowners of conserved lands to improve and manage habitat for game species and other Species of Greatest Conservation Need as identified in the State Wildlife Action Plan. The grant program also aims to expand opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation, and complement ongoing habitat management work on state lands.
This year EEOEA Secretary Matthew Beaton provided MassWildlife with $300,000 to fund another year of this popular and effective program. Details on how to apply for the MassWildlife Habitat Management Grant can be found at mass.gov/dfw/habitat-grant. The application period is now open with a proposal deadline of October 17, 2018.
Last year, a team of reviewers selected 20 proposals submitted by municipalities, private citizens, and NGOs for projects in 19 towns and cities. The projects included invasive plant control, old field habitat improvement, prescribed fire to enhance habitats, stream restoration work, etc. Approximately 950 acres were successfully managed as a result of the funding.
There are some significant changes to the program this year, including an expansion of eligible lands, and the use of a fillable form for an application. This form application should make it easier for individuals and organizations that are not experienced in grant writing to be able to apply for this funding opportunity to conduct work on land they own or manage.
Turkey Shoots
The Lenox Sportsmen’s Club recently announced that it will be starting its fall turkey shoots on September 16 at 1:00 pm and will run every Sunday until November 18. Shooters are encouraged to bring their shotgun and 22 rifle or pistol to take a shot at winning Thanksgiving Dinner. For more info contact Lorenzo Marangoni: 413-822-7412.
Life Preservers
Don’t forget! From September 15 to May 15 Massachusetts regulations require that anyone using a canoe or kayak must wear a life preserver. Don’t sit on it, wear it!

Five are honored at the Silvio O. Conte Memorial Banquet

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The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club banquet hall was packed last Saturday night to celebrate the Silvio O. Conte Sportsmen’s Awards Banquet. Mark Jester, former President of the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) was the emcee for the evening. The accomplishments of all of the award recipients were listed in my March 18 column.”
In presenting the first award, the Outstanding Achievement Award, to Tom Tyning, Fish & Wildlife Board Member Stephen Sears said, “He has not only taught students but also teachers to help them teach our views about all the great things of Berkshire County.” The Outstanding Achievement Award plaque reads, “In recognition of your efforts to introduce thousands of people including many future sportsmen to the vast wonders of the outdoors.” In his acceptance of the award, Tom mentioned that his real start in this area was when he was a kid growing up in the Connecticut Valley. He discussed his education and future endeavors in the area. Radio telepathy was first being invented in the 1970s and he said that he was able to put a transmitter into a turtle for 2 years. He described that period as, “a very quiet and slow period” of his life.
Then Mark Jester said some very nice things about me before presenting me with the John Zuber Award. This award reads, “Presented in recognition of his unwavering dedication to introduce and perpetuate the ideals of sportsmen in Berkshire County”. This was quite an honor for me because I had a great respect for John and what he accomplished during his lifetime. I thanked the sportsmen, conservationists and the DFW for supporting and reading the Berkshire Woods and Waters column over the years. If it wasn’t for them providing news information and pictures, I wouldn’t be able to write it weekly. I thanked the Berkshire Eagle for keeping the column after my predecessor, Ted Giddings retired. Lastly, I thanked his wife Jan, my “in-house” editor who proofreads and keeps me pretty much out of trouble.
Mark then presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to George Wislocki, who retired from the Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) after many years. “The County League and the BNRC have had a great relationship over the years, we helped them and they helped us.” The Lifetime Achievement Award plaque reads, “Worked for over 50 years preserving open space, majestic ridge lines and vulnerable wetlands of Berkshire County.” George commented that he grew up in Eastern MA and loved the outdoors, and when he was 14 he attended a youth conservation camp here in the Berkshires. Later on, when he was older and worked for the BNRC, he linked up with George “Gige” Darey in preserving land.
“I love these clubs (referring to the Cheshire Rod & Gun Clubhouse). “Look at everyone here”, these clubs are important but times are changing and I hope 50 years from today there will still be this club and there will still be people here”. He urged the sportsmen of Berkshire County to “take the kids into the woods and show them what the woods are all about. It’s an experience to be a sportsman, it’s a wonderful experience. It is so much Berkshire.”
“Its rare to have someone who is so dedicated to certain aspects of the outdoors and does so on a volunteer basis”, said Mark about Dan Miraglia when presenting him with the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award. “He grew up fishing lakes and is really involved in the aquatic species. He is the eyes and ears when it comes to lakes, drawdowns and herbicide applications. He brings things to light for the sportsmen and keeps them involved in what is going on. He does so pretty much single handedly and the BCLS supports him, and he supports us. The “Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award plaque reads, “In recognition of his support dedication and oversight in the preservation of open space and wildlife”. Dan recalled as a kid catching gold fish and frogs in rivers and ponds and how the shores of Onota and Pontoosic Lakes were loaded with turtles and frogs. “Now they are disappearing in our lakes. There just is not enough protection”, he said. The effects of continued drawdowns for 30-40 years have had their effects. “Take the politics out of lake management and give our lakes back to the sportsmen”, he said.
Karen Kruszyna became the second woman to have ever be awarded the Sportsperson of the Year award. Only one other woman has won the award and that was Eleanor Tillinghast. “If you go to this club, (Cheshire), if you go to the Adams for Outdoor Youth Club, if you go to the BCLS functions, you will see Karen selling tickets”, said Jester. (she was selling tickets that night). She is always involved in the organizations’ activities and is there at the helm or standing behind the person speaking or running the event. Everyone knows that if it wasn’t for her, the person would not be able to put the event together. Same thing here tonight. Her Sportsperson of the Year plaque reads, “In recognition for her lifelong dedication, leadership and support of youth in Massachusetts.”
In accepting the award, Karen said that she is grateful every day because of the fact that when she has to do something she can always pick up the phone and ask for and always receive help. People almost never say no, and that’s why this all works. That very morning, she was so excited when she was driving through Adams and saw kids riding bikes with backpacks and fishing poles. She said, “Oh my god, kids going fishing”. She stopped and told them where she thought they would catch fish. “I learned this week that parts of the Archery-in-the School program is incorporated into a local school’s physics program. It’s wonderful to co-exist, when they learn about sports, they can also learn about other scientific things”.
Mark noted that the BCLS has its annual Youth Outreach Fishing Derby every year and that some twelve Berkshire County schools have Archery-in the School programs. If your school doesn’t have such a program and you want to see one, contact a BCLS delegate or Mark and they will work hard to get one in. They also have trout rearing and release programs in the schools,
“We are fighting a rear guard right now and we need to get these kids involved in the outdoors. Bring the kids to sportsmen’s dinners, turkey shoots, get them involved in archery and shooting programs.
Mark introduced current BCLS President Tom Brule to the crowd who in turn made some comments. Lastly, Mark thanked Mike Kruszyna, long time BCLS VP who filled in as president for the last 2 years until the position was filled by Tom.
Richmond Pond Trout Stocking
DFW had a special Earth Week trout stocking event on Richmond Pond on Friday, April 20. Leanda Fontaine-Gagnon, Aquatic Biologist for the DFW Western District (WD) explained that the purpose of the event was to get people familiar with their stocking process and what they do on a daily basis all year long. The WD covers all of Berkshire County as well as western portions of Hampshire, Hampton and Franklin Counties. DFW is charged with overseeing, protecting and managing the natural resources across the state. All 5 districts have the same type of staffing. In the WD, there is an Aquatic Biologist, a Wildlife Biologist, District Manager, four Wildlife Technicians, a Land Steward, who oversees all of their Wildlife Management Areas, a Real Estate Agent and a clerk.
They stock most of the locations in the spring and a handful in the fall. As Aquatic Biologist, she does all of the organization for the stocking in the WD. She determines what fish to stock and how many and what sizes to go in which waters. She puts in orders to the hatcheries for the fish and also goes out and stocks. During this time of year, she typically spends one day in the office and the rest of the week she is out in the field stocking.
Why do they stock fish? In this technologically advanced age, everybody is inside playing with smart phones, tablets and whatnot. DFW wants to get people back out into the world and enjoy what we have for natural resources; such as fishing, kayaking, and just enjoying the natural resources.
They are not stocking trout for restoration purposes but for people to catch. They are supplementing the wild trout populations for angling purposes in order to get pressure off of the wild trout population.
They stock four different types of trout in the state: brook, brown, rainbow, and a hybrid tiger trout which is a cross between a brook and brown. In the WD they stock just over 96,000 fish in the entire spring allotment and across the state it is about 600,000. Rainbow trout, 14 inches and over is the bulk of what they stock. They also put a lot of brookies, browns and tiger trout.
All of the trout come from 5 hatcheries across the state, with four in the Connecticut Valley: the Bitzer Fish Hatchery in Montague, Sunderland Fish Hatchery in Sunderland, McLaughlin Fish Hatchery in Belchertown and Roger Reed Hatchery in Palmer. Another hatchery, the Sandwich Fish Hatchery in Sandwich also produces tiger trout. The fish stocked at Richmond Pond on this day were from the McLaughlin Hatchery.
DFW put out a variety of fish from 9 to 18 inches. They stock out the fish based upon the size of the water body. Typically, they stock 12 plus inch fish in Richmond Pond but the 9-inch fish are usually stocked into smaller streams. They stock 70 cold water bodies in our district, 23 ponds and 54 rivers or streams.
On a typical day when they are stocking fish they check their schedules, drive to the hatchery, fill up with water there (they have 4 individual tanks in the truck) and obtain their allotted fish for that day. On this particular day, they were carrying 750 fish on board (about 1,000 lbs), with 350 of them going into Richmond Pond and the remainder to Goose Pond. When they arrive at their water bodies, they either send them out through chutes where they can do so or carry them by nets into rivers and streams.
It may seem like they are harming the fish by tossing them into the waters but if the fish are gently stocked, that is one of the worst things to do. The little plop into the water actually wakes them up a little. DFW takes care to ensure that the fish survive. (no casualties were observed this day).
After fielding a few questions, Leanda asked the 20 or so spectators to help out with the stocking process by carrying the trout in white 5 gallon pails to the lake front and tossing them into the water. Everyone, especially the kids, had a ball.
GOAL Seminar
On Tuesday, May 1, beginning at 6:30 pm, the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club will be hosting a free GOAL seminar entitled “MA Gun Law for Citizens”. It is a 3-hour seminar presented by Jon Green, Director of Education and Training for the Gun Owners Action League, that will help separate fact from fiction. Jon’s presentation will provide a clear understanding of Massachusetts gun laws and regulations.

All firearms owners should attend. The seminar is free to Berkshire County residents and neighboring counties courtesy of the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club. You are requested to RSVP so that they can plan seating for the event. Contact Robert J. McDermott at 413-232-7700 or robmcdermott@verizon.net or www.StockbridgeSportsmensClub.org.

Lenox Land Trust honors Charles Liston

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The Lenox Land Trust recently informed Charles Liston of Lenox Dale that they have designated him an Emeritus Director status in recognition of his many contributions to land preservation in Lenox and Berkshire County. The emeritus letter, which was drafted by Kate McNaulty-Vaughan, Lenox Land Trust (LLT) Executive Board Member and Secretary reads as follows:
“In November, 2016 at the Lenox Land Trust Annual Meeting, the LLT awarded you a special plaque, recognizing your role in forming the Land Trust and your longstanding commitment and leadership of the conservation movement and its early initiatives in Lenox and Berkshire County.”
“As one of the first members of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council when it started 50 years ago, you have since distinguished yourself as one of few people who had an unbroken record of support for all 50 years! You were recognized for having been tireless in your role as a surveyor for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in assisting in conservation work for the state, for Lenox, and for many regional environmental groups. And for that generosity of spirit, generations to come will enjoy these preserved lands and wildlife.”
“You have explored and recorded the boundaries and features of thousands of acres of land. Your expertise and love of natural landscapes resulted in the permanent protection of many of those acres in their natural state. Always on the lookout for special lands and places in your work for the state, you identified land that would be of interest to the Berkshire Natural Resources Council, as well as the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and other conservation organizations.”
“You also served on the first Conservation Commission in the Town of Lenox and played a key role in obtaining grants for the acquisition of the Post Farm (100 acres) in 1959, and Edith Wharton Park (15 acres) in 1972 –wonderful open space and recreation lands in town. Notably, those acquisitions received 75% reimbursement from the Federal Government, and 25% from the State. When John D. Kennedy donated the southern half of Parsons Marsh to the Town in 1974, you did all the surveying free of charge, which entailed countless hours of work. This is an astounding legacy, perhaps not known to most residents today.”
“You can only be described as an avid conservationist and environmentalist. The townspeople and Lenox Land Trust will be forever grateful to you for all these unselfish gifts of your time, expertise, and land, especially that parcel on Crystal Street (Lenox Dale) donated for a small park in 2007. In 2008 the Town of Lenox dedicated that lovely spot as Liston Park to honor you and your late wife Carmen.”
May I also add that anyone who has hunted the Post Farm, the George Darey Wildlife Management Area or Hallowell Meadow; or hiked or bird watched at the Edith Wharton Park or Parson’s Marsh in Lenox owes Charlie a great deal of gratitude.
We also owe the 95 year-old veteran our heartfelt gratitude for serving in the US Marines during WWII in the South Pacific, notably in the Saipan, Tinian and Okinawa campaigns.

 

Trout stocking
The following waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week: Hoosic River (South Branch) in Adams and Cheshire; Hoosic River (North Branch) in Clarksburg; Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Chickley River in Charlemont, Hawley and Savoy; Cold River in Charlemont, Florida and Savoy; Westfield River in Chester, Huntington, Middlefield and Worthington; Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Housatonic River in Hinsdale and Dalton, Housatonic River (Southwest Branch) in Pittsfield, Littleville Reservoir in Chester and Huntington, Hudson Brook in Clarksburg, Town Brook in Lanesboro, Goose Pond in Tyringham and Lee; Garfield Lake in Monterey, Onota Lake in Pittsfield, Green River and Hemlock Brook in Williamstown.
Land Acquisition
In his April report to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden reported that MassWildlife recently acquired 52 acres off land off of Tannery Road in Otis, MA. The primary feature of the property is approximately 1,500 feet of frontage along the Farmington River. It is accessible from Tannery Road near where the Knox Trail Rider’s and the Isaac Walton League Clubhouse is. DFW also picked up a one-acre piece of land along that road for a parking area and access to the river.
Earth Week Stocking Event
MassWildlife invites you to celebrate Earth Week by helping them stock trout on Richmond Pond. You will have the opportunity to meet MassWildlife fisheries staff, view trout up close, and learn about places to fish near you. The event takes place on Thursday, April 19, at 1:30 pm. at the Richmond Pond Boat Ramp off of Town Beach Road.
Quadriplegic hunter
Say, remember Zach Porio? He was the quadriplegic turkey hunter that I wrote about in August entitled “Local turkey hunter is an inspiration to us all”. (August 13, 2017) To refresh your memory, he is the guy that shot a turkey using his knees as support and pulling the trigger with both hands. After dropping a tom, he had to drive his truck closer to the bird, grab a rope, get into his wheelchair and push it 20 yards over a meadow to retrieve it. He then had to bend over, tie the turkey by its feet, push himself back upright into the wheelchair, put the rope into his mouth and drag the 12 lbs turkey back to his truck while pushing the wheelchair.
Well, the local community rallied to the aid of the young man who was paralyzed from the chest down in a dirt bike accident several years ago. The plan was to get the avid hunter a special chair which would allow him to be more mobile in the woods.

Through fund raising dinners, auctions, collection boxes and various events, the community and businesses got together to raise enough funds to enable Zach to purchase that special chair. Quite a different chair than the wheelchair that was featured in this column back in August, hey?
This is what Zach posted on Facebook, “I just want to thank everyone so incredibly much for their generosity in helping me to get this incredible chair. I can’t tell you how amazing it was to interact and get out there to play in the snow with everyone again, instead of watching from the sidelines. To be able to move around on my own with almost no limitations and to stand more than I’ve done in a long while was great and just what I needed to cure the cabin fever of winter. Being outdoors is something that I used to enjoy so much in the past but have dreaded ever since the accident. Now, this chair gives me the ultimate freedom to get around and maneuver the outdoors like I used to love so much.”
“I thank you all for coming together to make such a huge difference in my life and giving me the ability to interact with my children beyond the limitations of my wheelchair. Again, I’m just beyond amazed at our community and the phenomenal things that are accomplished when people come together. I want to let you know that the sharing won’t stop and that I plan to give others in the community the opportunity to experience a bit of the joy and freedom by extending the offer for others with accessibility limitations the chance to utilize the track chair. Thank you again, Zack.”

Acid Rain Monitors are now even more important
If you saw a grown adult poking around in your little neighborhood stream last Sunday, you needn’t have been alarmed. Its possible that the person was one of the half dozen local Acid Rain Monitors collecting water samples for UMASS. Through fair or foul weather, they have been monitoring Commonwealth waters for over 30 years now. Last Sunday, they were collecting water samples in 20-degree weather. But they are a dedicated lot and most of them have been doing these annual samples, never missing a collection date, for 15-20 years now.
The monitors knew that the water samples collected in our area were brought to Westfield State University to be tested for ph, alkalinity, major cations and anions. But recently, they were informed by UMASS that this year the samples will be used as part of Dr. Boutt’s Isoscape project, which involves mapping the distribution of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes in surface waters throughout Massachusetts.

Dr. David F. Boutt is an Associate Professor of hydrogeology, watershed hydrology and groundwater recharge/discharge with the Department of Geosciences UMASS-Amherst. The goal of this project is to develop a baseline of environmental isotopes to understand hydrologic functioning of surface and ground waters throughout the Commonwealth. The ultimate product of this effort are spatial maps of isotopic composition of surface water and groundwater that will define the isoscape in which we live.

Through a combination of sampling efforts by numerous voluntary contributing organizations and the UMASS Hydro Team, they have been able to create a water isotope database consisting of data from all over Massachusetts and much of the Northeast.

Depending on the weight of the water, the source of the water (extra-tropical versus arctic) or the age of the water (recently precipitated versus groundwater) can be inferred. For example, extra-tropical storm waters tend to have a heavier signature whereas Arctic waters tend to be slightly lighter. Precipitation is usually significantly heavier than older water.

So why is this research important? According to UMASS, most significantly, the breadth of this project allows them to track the response of watersheds to hydrologic events–whether that be major storms, or droughts. This will especially be significant as climate change begins to take effect and more extreme weather events occur. Water isotope signatures are also useful in other environmental scenarios such as a tracer in contamination scenarios. This project is the first of its kind at the state level in the nation.

Who would have thought that our collectors with their white bottles of water could turn out to be so important in the scheme of things? Most of the collectors are fishermen and women who have a love for and a desire to protect our waters. Also, who would have thought that your little stream in Becket, Sheffield or Richmond would be part of such an important and far reaching study?

For more information about the project, and a definition of isotopes, click onto: https://blogs.umass.edu/dboutt/research/current-research/isoscape-project/

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Thank you Gige

 

There were a lot of strangers in the Town of Stockbridge on Saturday, May 13.  Governor Charlie Baker was here as well as Lieutenant Governor Karen Polito.  EOEEA Secretary Matt Beaton, former EOEEA Secretary and State Senator Bob Durand, former State Senator Stephen Brewer, several former Fish & Wildlife Commissioners including Walter Bickford, Dave Peters, Mary Griffin and current Commissioner and former State Representative George Peterson, former Director of the MA DFW Wayne MacCallum and current Director Jack Buckley, MA Senator Anne Gobi,  and Representative Kulik from Worthington.  There were several former and current Fish & Wildlife Board members, officers of the Mass Sportsmen Council and the Worcester County League of Sportsmen.

 

They all linked up at the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club with local State Representative Smitty Pignatelli, Senator Adam Hinds, former Berkshire Natural Resources Chairman George Wislocki, current BNRC Chairman Tad Ames, current F&W Board member and President of the Mass Outdoor Heritage Foundation Steve Sears, and a whole host of sportsmen, DFW personnel and environmental dignitaries.  There was even a man there that claimed to be an official from the Town of Ripton, MA.  Those who couldn’t attend such as current F&W Board Chairman Joe Larson and former Governor William Weld sent letters and gifts.

 

They were there to celebrate 88-year old George “Gige” Darey’s retirement from the MA Fish & Wildlife Board.  Gige didn’t want a retirement party and only agreed to it when he learned that it was also a fund raiser for the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation which he and MacCallum co-founded.  There was not an empty chair in the place and everyone who attended personally knew and/or worked with Gige over the years.  Co-Chairmen for the event were Durand, Peters, MacCallum and Sears, and what a great event they put together.

 

Space does not allow me to mention all of the people and wonderful words said about Gige.  Don’t get me wrong, they also took advantage of the opportunity to roast him and to mention some “spoof’s” that they participated in with him over the years.  Appeals Court Judge Joseph Trainor did an excellent roasting job.

 

Rep. Smitty Pignatelli said that he couldn’t think of anybody who has taught him more about the importance of conservation of open space and protection and the rights of sportsmen than Gige.  .  He repeated a phrase once told to him by the late Bill Wilde (of Highlawn Farm), “Our natural beauty is more valuable than an oil well in Saudi Arabia.”

 

Senator Hines noted that his work and had an impact.  “ It made a difference”.   After making wonderful comments, State Senator Gobi presented him the Red Poppy Award, (for Korean War veterans). After Peters and Durand related some comical past events and listed many of Gige’s accomplishments he was presented an award from the Mass Outdoor Heritage Foundation.

 

Rep. Kulik read a resolution from the MA House and Senate, congratulating him on the occasion of his retirement.  It recognized his 38 years on the Board of which 35 as its chairman and the fact that he was first appointed by Governor Michael Dukakis, served under the 7 subsequent governors, preserved thousands of acres of vital wildlife habitat while providing public access and making the MA F&W Board one of the most respected wildlife agencies in the country.  It noted his establishment of the Non-Game Advisory Board, passage and implementation of the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Act, institution of the Wild Wings Conservation Stamp, the development of the core habitat protection and the development and expansion of many youth programs.

 

BNRC’s George Wislocki and Tad Ames noted that Gige was one of the founders of Sportsmen for Land Preservation and helped raise over $300,000 over the period of 6 years, which was crucial for the survival of the BNRC.  “He cemented a relationship of the BNRC with the sportsmen of Berkshire County”.

 

Mike Roche, member of the MA F&W Board announced that the Board created an award in Gige’s name. “ From this time forward there will be a Gige Darey Award to be presented to a MassWildlife staff member who exemplifies the values, work ethics and standards that George created.”

 

Former DFW Director Wayne MacCallum described the F&W Board.  It sets policy, regulatory authority and has to approve the hiring of every person appointed to the DFW.  “George was absolutely incredible in terms of requiring that all appointments were made with the most qualified people.  He was a strong advocate in support of professional natural resource management. Not only in Massachusetts, he is legendary throughout the country for the programs the MA DFW has instituted He is a fierce fighter for the environment.  Much of what you see here (open space) has to do with George Darey.  Under George’s leadership, the DFW went from a hooks and bullets agency to an integrated agency incorporating the protection of many different species”.   They haven’t had a license increase since 1996.

 

On behalf of his and his son’s generation, EOEEA Secretary Matt Beaton thanked him for his inspiration.  Lt Governor Polito commented on Gige’s long service and mentioned that his services were all for free. (Other than travel expense reimbursement, F&W Board members are not paid).  She thanked Gige for sharing so much of his time, energy and love for this Commonwealth.  He is a great friend to all sportsmen.   “Having Gige on this Board for 38 years chairing it for 35 years absolutely mattered here in the Commonwealth”, she said.

 

Gige took a little razzing from Beaton and Governor Baker for missing 5 of those Board meetings out of 400 over the course of 38 years.  Twice as a pall bearer, once an ice storm prevented him from getting through, a health issue and one day to go bird hunting.

 

Governor Baker said that “George is a hero, not just because of the time he spent on the Board but the good work that was done.     We all benefit tremendously from the coalitions that he built.  We live in a difficult age where people draw very bright lines and have trouble viewing any other point of view but their own and are really not that experienced in coalition and finding common ground.  One of the truly great things is that he found common ground all of the time, and he had a core set of principles.  He understood that he was one player among many and he never forgot that. “

 

“He worked extremely hard to figure out where the common ground was and where the opportunity was to support the stuff that he cared so much about.  Along the way he created a bunch of public and private institutions that stood the test of time and will be here for a very long time.  The legacy is not just the history but its also what is going to happen going forward because those institutions are in place and will continue to perform long after the rest of us have gone on to do other things.  “You are such a son of Massachusetts”, Governor Baker said, “and you have meant so much to the Commonwealth and so much to the people of the Commonwealth”.

 

In accepting his citations, awards and standing ovation, Gige commented on how much his partner Ginny Acabane meant to him and how lucky he is.  Referring to his service on the Board, he said, “The ride that I have been on, I would not change one bit”.  As to the sportsmen, he said that he has enjoyed working with them and was very proud to represent them.

 

All attendees were given a memento coffee mug.  On one side is a picture of Gige with his faithful Brittany Spaniel, Éclair.  (In a joint effort of the F&W Board and local sportsmen, that dog was purchased and imported from Brittany, France  and was presented to Gige by Mike Roche on March 9, 2013, following the early, unexpected death of his previous dog).

 

On the other side of the mug were words that really struck me:  “A hundred years from now, if fish still swim in our rivers and deer still prance through our fields, if we can recognize the view from atop our favorite Berkshire heights, we will in large measure have George L. “Gige” Darey of Lenox to thank. For nearly a quarter-century now as Chairman of the State Fish & Wildlife Board and at the center of a network of conservative groups, Mr. Darey has devoted his time, energy and powers of persuasion to making sure we and our children will have woods to walk in and game to shoot.”   October 12, 2002, Berkshire Eagle editorial.

Pictured seated are George “Gige” Darey and his partner Ginny Acabane.  Standing are Lt. Governor Karen Polito and Governor Charlie Baker.  Picture provided by S. A. Sears Photagraphy

2016 Berkshire County League of Sportsmen Award winners are announced

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In the BCLS’s March meeting, Doug Frank of Lee was selected to receive its Sportsman of the Year Award.  He has been a long time member and Board member of the Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA) and has always been there to help out.  He ran the Club’s pheasant program and was co-chairman of the skeet field.  He has always believed in promoting the shooting sports and became a NRA Certified Instructor in Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun and as a Range Safety Officer.

 

Recently, he became a NRA Certified Skeet Shooting Coach.  He has been a coach for the LSA Buckshots, which is part of the Scholastic Skeet & Trap Program, which he now runs. He is a Massachusetts Hunter Education instructor and teaches at the LSA and other places. Every year he helps out with the Youth Pheasant Hunt with his dogs.  He also helps out with the LSA Annual Ice Fishing Derby and Pheasant Fund Raising Dinner.  He always helps with the fundraising, whether at the Gala Dinner, Turkey Shoots, Raffle Tickets, and more.

 

Karen Karlberg of Becket was selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.  She was a long time member of the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited and at one time served on its Board.  In 2005, Karen was the recipient of the Taconic Chapter’s highest honor, the Crooked Staff Award.  This award is presented to the person who best represents the ideals of TU, that being the conserving, protecting and restoring of North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds

 

Karen was heavily involved with the ASERP (Atlantic Salmon Egg Rearing Program) in the Becket schools.  She helped the Becket grammar school system establish the program some 14 years ago.  In this program 3rd and 4th grade students raised young salmon fry from egg to fry and released them into Yokum Brook in Becket.  She obtained the eggs from the Belchertown Hatchery drove them to the school, and took care of them during school vacations.  After the salmon program was ended, she continued her assistance with its Trout in the Classroom (TIC) program.

 

She was involved with the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) Housatonic River clean-ups,  taught flycasting to children during HVA events and educated youths about maco-invertibrates.  She was a stream guide for the Casting for the Recovery Program, a support and educational program for breast cancer survivors. She assisted with the MassWildlife’s Becoming an Outdoorsman (BOW) Program

 

She is involved with the Westfield River Watershed clean-ups and eradication of invasives.  She serves on its Wild & Scenic Committee and helps with trail clean-ups. She worked with the Nature Conservancy doing wildlife tracking and assessments.

 

Tom Macy of Sheffield has been selected to receive the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award.  He has been a member of the Sheffield Sporting Club for 49 years, serving as President for 10 years, Treasurer for 32 years and on the Board of Directors for 46 years. He played a major part in moving the club to its current location and building the club house, 2 skeet fields and a trap field.

 

For years he led a 22 rifle club for the Boy Scouts and an instructional course for 5th and 6th grade students that taught gun safety and also gave them the opportunity to shoot a rifle, pistol and shotgun. Tom has maintained and repaired the clubs 4 skeet, 5 five-stand traps and set the trap field to be run by vocal release.  Tom has always donated both time and money to the Sheffield Sporting Club. The money he made driving students to high school sporting events was donated to construct the observation/porch addition to the club. He also donated enough money to enable the club to buy one of the 2 new traps last year.  This year, as in all past years, he has cleared all the fields of snow so members could shoot all winter.

 

Robert J. McDermott of West Stockbridge was selected to receive the prestigious John Zuber Outstanding Achievement Award.  Bob is a NRA Benefactor Life Member, Instructor, Training Counselor, MA and Utah Certified Instructor and a MA Hunter Education Instructor.  He is a member of the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club, Lee Sportsmen’s Association and Agawam Revolver Club. He is the author of the Massachusetts Pistol License Course (LTC-020) that is taught to approximately 35% of new licensees in MA each year.   He teaches the Basic Hunter Ed course with the team at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association.  He has taught over 6,000 students.   In addition to teaching at local clubs, he has taught at Smith & Wesson, Savage Arms, Cabela’s and others.  He also teaches courses to raise funds for the Stockbridge and Lee sportsmen’s clubs. He was taught about firearm safety and hunting by his father, and feels that it is important to “pay it forward”  to preserve our heritage and rights.

 

The late John Zuber was recognized twice by the BCLS ( Lifetime Achievement Award and the Sportsman of the Year Award) for his work and dedication to the sportsmen of Massachusetts.  He was also recognized by the Massachusetts Sportsmen’s Council and is listed in its Hall of Fame.

 

These richly deserved awards will be presented at the Silvio O. Conte Memorial Banquet at the Cheshire Rod and Gun Club on the evening of April 15.   This year the event will also be in honor of George “Gige” Darey, recently retired Massachusetts Fish & Wildlife Board Chairman.  Tickets which cost $30 can be obtained from any BCLS delegate.

 

Trout Stocking

Leanda Fontaine Gagnon, DFW Western District Aquatic Biologist, informed us that they stocked Onota Lake in Pittsfield last Friday.  The weather and conditions have kept them from making any concrete stocking plans, leaving them to monitor local waters on a day-by-day basis.

 

New England Turkey Hunting Hall of Fame inductees are announced

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On January 28, Bass Pro Shops in Hooksett, New Hampshire, hosted the first New England Turkey Hunting Hall of Fame inductions, recognizing those who played pivotal roles in bringing wild turkeys back from extinction in New England.  Wild turkeys were extinct for about a century. Their return is an improbable story of long-dedicated, cooperative biologists helping each other spread the right wild stock back here. Once they figured out how to do that, wild turkeys naturally did the rest.

The New England Hall of Fame was the brainchild of two Massachusetts National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) chapter presidents: Keith Fritz of central Mass. and Kevin Antonovitch of Cape Cod.

These first Hall of Fame inductees came from all six New England states, and included the 10 giants of our region’s turkey conservation: Massachusetts’ James Cardoza and Jim Bolduc, New Hampshire’s Chip Page and Ted Walski, Vermont’s Doug Blodgett and Ron Lafreniere, Maine’s Jim Wescott and Gene Howard, Connecticut’s Steve Jackson and Rhode Island’s Jim Chadwick. All 10 received a decorative plaque along with a handsome, custom, curly-maple box call with their names, states and Hall of Fame credentials inscribed on the striker top.  If you hunt turkeys anywhere in New England, you owe thanks to one or more of these dedicated men.

I will highlight our Massachusetts inductees.  Beginning in 1969, Jim Cardoza supervised the recovery of Massachusetts’ extinct wild turkey. They originally were common everywhere in the state, except on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, but as a result of deforestation and overhunting, they were extirpated by the 1850’s.

In 1972-73, Cardoza’s team live-trapped 37 wild turkeys from southwestern New York and released them in Beartown State Forest in Monterey where they flourished.  In 1978, there were enough surplus birds for Cardoza to trap and release them to other areas within the state. Between 1979 and 1996, they released 561 birds in 10 counties.

As a result of Cardoza’s efforts, Massachusetts now has a population of about 25,000 wild turkeys.  Thanks to their success, we have both a spring and fall hunt, which produce a perennially sustainable harvest of about 3,000.  Cardoza wrote a book entitled, “The Wild Turkey in Massachusetts”, which is considered the definitive book on our wild turkeys.  It explains why they originally failed in their restoration attempts and how they finally succeeded.

Jim Bolduc was honored for being the first NWTF Massachusetts state chapter president.  Established in 1983, his was the first chapter established in year three of Massachusetts turkey hunting.  He contacted the NWTF about starting a chapter in Massachusetts and became the first Massachusetts Chapter president.  With help from his officers and board, he helped set the foundations for inspiring and educating our state’s sportsmen to support wild turkey restoration here.

Back then, less than a 100 hunters were chosen annually by lottery and restricted to hunting towns across a northwest strip of the state. The hunting territory included the northern Franklin and Berkshire County border towns where turkeys started spilling in from southern Vermont and Upstate New York.  Today, his chapter is one of six in the state; the others are Eastern Mass. (1986), Central Mass. (1996), Western Mass Longbeards (1996), Pioneer Valley Longbeards (1996), and Cranberry Country Longbeards (2000). It is anticipated that a seventh chapter, the Greylock Gobblers (Northern Berkshires), will come to fruition later this year.

Back at the time of their reintroduction, wild turkeys were found in pockets of western Massachusetts but they began to spread into the central part of the state with the assistance of aggressive MassWildlife stocking initiatives. Today there are turkeys statewide.

Without pioneers like Bolduc and Cardoza, who were leaders of the successful restoration program, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike would not have such easy access to what has since become our state game bird.

 

Much of the information for this article was gleaned from MassWildlife and articles written by Mark Blazis of the Worcester Telegram (“Getting to know wild turkey hunting’s hall of famers”, February 6, 2017) and from Gary Sanderson’s article in the Greenfield Recorder (“Colrain turkey hunter inaugural New England Hall of Famer”, February 14, 2017).

 

Staying with the subject of wild turkeys, the Massachusetts Young Adult Turkey Hunting Program is a partnership program between MassWildlife, the Massachusetts State Chapter of the NWTF, and participating sportsmen’s clubs. The program is designed to provide hunters ages 12-17 an opportunity to: (a) Participate in a field workshop that provides specialized training in turkey hunting and safety, including firearms instruction and practice; and (b) Hunt wild turkey under the supervision and guidance of a safe, experienced adult hunter serving as a mentor on a special day set aside just for young adults.

Information on this program can be obtained from the MassWildlife web page under the caption Education & Events.  The listing of local participating sportsmen’s clubs and schedules are listed there.

 

Incidentally, this year the Youth Turkey Hunt day is Saturday, April 22.

 

Events

The Lee Sportsmen’s Association is beginning its spring turkey shoots next Sunday, March 12 from noon to 3pm and they will run until the Sunday before Easter.  Shoots cost $2 per shot and $3 for the money shoots.  If you prefer, you could win strip steaks, pork loins or spiral hams.

 

The Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club is having a venison buffet next Saturday, March 11 at the ITAM Lodge, 22 Waubeek Rd, Pittsfield.  The proceeds will benefit its Land Development Fund.  Cocktails start at 5pm, dinner at 6pm.  There will be a 50/50 and assorted raffles.  Donation are $17 for adults and children under 10 years of age $8.50.  For tickets contact:  Stan Bushey (413) 841-8345, Travis Delratez (413) 441-7979, Dave Pemble (413) 443-0646, Rich Powers (413) 822-6581, Fran Tremblay (413)443-5133 and  Mike Furey (413) 822-1959.

Four honored at BCLS Conte Banquet

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About 160 people packed the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club banquet hall last Saturday evening for the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s (BCLS) Silvio O. Conte Memorial Awards Banquet. Award recipients were the late Christopher Porter of Pittsfield, Al Buck of Adams, Steve Bateman of Pittsfield and DCR Deputy Director Matthew Sisk, of Braintree, MA.  The banquet was dedicated in memory of the late Chuck Jones of Dalton.  All were selected by the various sportsmen’s clubs which make up the BCLS.   Their individual feats were highlighted in a prior column.

 

In acknowledging Chuck Jones, emcee and former League president Mark Jester said that Jones was instrumental in getting the Friends of NRA here in the Berkshires and every club, including the BCLS, benefitted from the work he and his staff did over the years.   Chuck’s widow, Evelyn, thanked the League for the banquet dedication in Chuck’s honor.  She read a touching poem of remembrance.

 

Steve Bateman has raised over $25,000 through his fishing derbies for Dana Farber Cancer Institute.  He was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award which acknowledged “his achievements all while enhancing the image of sportsmen in our community”.  On receiving the award, he thanked all those who helped along the way.

 

Al Buck was recognized for his work with the sportsmen and Adams Outdoor for Youth by receiving the John Zuber Award “for his unwavering dedication to introduce and perpetuate the ideals of sportsmen in Berkshire County.”  He thanked the League and the many people who helped him over the years.

 

Fish & Wildlife Board Chairman George “Gige” Darey presented the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award to Matt Sisk.  Darey noted that there were thousands of acres of local state forests that were not accessible to hunters.   That was until Matt became Deputy Director of DCR.  Upon hearing of the problem, he immediately came to the Berkshires, checked out the situation and got the access issues resolved.  The award was “ in recognition of his sport dedication and oversight to the preservation of open space and wildlife.”  In accepting the award, Sisk said that he was really honored and proud and that the award means a lot to him.  “If it wasn’t for Fish & Game Commissioner George Peterson, Darey and DFW Director Jack Buckley”, he said, “ this wouldn’t have happened.”

 

In presenting the Sportsman of the Year Award, Jester noted that the late Chris Porter should have gotten this award years ago. He was very involved in the sports level and was very helpful, usually behind the scenes.  “We want his memory to live on.” he said.   The award was, “in recognition of his lifelong dedication and leadership of sportsmen and youth of Massachusetts.” Chris’ son Ryan accepted the award on behalf of his family.  He thanked the League and related some shooting experiences that he had with his dad.

 

During the banquet, Mark Jester recounted how he became a BCLS delegate when he was 23 years old.   He mentioned how the late US Congressman Silvio O. Conte always made it a point to attend the raccoon dinners that the Lakewood Sportsmen’s Club put on.  At one dinner, he suggested that Mark become involved with the BCLS. The rest is history, with Mark serving as a delegate for 34 years and 18 years as its president.   Having recently stepped down, he took the opportunity to thank all of the delegates and sportsmen and women who have helped him over the years.  He said that he has developed many close friends that he never would have met were it not for the League. *****

 

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Deerfield River  in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Goose Pond Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Greenwater Brook, Beartown Brook and West Brook in Lee; Little River, Bronson Brook and West Branch Brook in Worthington; Yokum Brook in Becket, West Branch Brook in Chesterfield, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, West Brook in Great Barrington, Little River in Huntington, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Mill Brook in Plainfield, Larrywaug Brook in Stockbridge, Depot Brook in Washington and Westfield Brook in Windsor. *****

Vernal pools are unique wildlife habitats best known for the amphibians and invertebrate critters that use them to breed.   They usually dry during summer which prevents fish from establishing   populations.  That is critical to the reproductive success of many amphibians and invertebrates that rely on breeding habitats free of fish predators.

If you want to learn more about vernal pools, join the Wild & Scenic Westfield River exploration at noon April 30, at the Becket Town Hall in Becket.  After an hour presentation by Berkshire Environmental Action Team specialist Jane Winn, there will be on-site training to learn how to identify and certify a vernal pool. The presentation is free and open to the public and the site visit requires registration.  For more information, call Meredyth Babcock @ 413 623-2070.

2015 Berkshire County League of Sportsmen Award winners are announced

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The late Chris Porter of Pittsfield was selected to posthumously receive the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) 2015 Sportsman of the Year Award.   Chris was a long time officer and esteemed member of the Onota Fishing Club and Pittsfield Sportsmen’s.  He was instrumental in arranging and cooking for the youth fishing derbies at Wild Acres, for the Club’s annual Crappie Derbies on Onota Lake and for the Club’s game dinners.  Proceeds from those game dinners benefitted Soldier On, Eagle Santa Toy Fund and other worthwhile causes.

Without doubt, Chris indirectly touched and positively influenced hundreds of kids and sportsmen here in the Berkshires.

 

Steve Bateman of Pittsfield was selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.   With the help of friends and family he founded the Harry Bateman Fishing Derby Committee to raise money for the Jimmy Fund (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for Children) in the fall of 1992 and joined the Berkshire County Jimmy fund Council in 2002.  He also volunteers at the annual Jimmy Fund Ice Fishing derby.  Its goal is to raise funds for the Jimmy Fund and most importantly to get children and families involved in fishing and to have a great time.

 

Since 1993 the 1st Annual Harry A Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby,  fishing poles and entry tickets are donated to children of local schools, and other civic organizations  (including Elizabeth Freeman Center, Moments House) to help encourage more children into fishing.  In just the past 5 years over $25,000 has been donated to the Jimmy Fund in memory of Harry A Bateman.

 

He was a recipient of a Jimmy Fund Lifetime Commitment Award in 2007 at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA. The award is for someone who donates 10 or more years of volunteer work for the Jimmy Fund.

 

He was a lifetime member and competitive shooter for the former Central Berkshire Bowmen from 1977 until it closed in 1987.

 

Matthew Sisk, Deputy Director to the Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) was selected to receive the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award.   Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts may remember how difficult it was gaining access to our local State forests. Gates were being closed, there was a lack of parking spaces and roads were in disrepair.  After relentless prodding by BCLS president Mark Jester and Fish & Wildlife Board Chairman George “Gige” Darey, Deputy Commissioner Sisk became involved.  He visited the Berkshires to see first- hand what the problems were and took immediate steps to rectify the problems.  Those steps endeared him to the local sportsmen, resulting in this award.

 

Al Buck of Adams was selected to receive the prestigious John Zuber Lifetime Achievement Award.   Nominated by the Adams Outdoorsmen for Youth (AOFY), Al has been a member of that organization for more than 20 years, and is a key member.  As a cook for its Annual Game Supper each March, he has served meals to as many as 200 guests at a time.  Often, he worked outdoors for hours under cold weather conditions. That Game Supper is AOFY’s main fund raising event, and Al’s efforts have contributed greatly to its mission of service.

 

Al is also an active member of the MassWildlife Angler Education Program.  He’s always helps at the AOFY’s annual Winter Fishing Derby at Cheshire Lake, as well as its summer fishing events at Reynold’s Pond.  An avid hunter and fisherman, Al is always ready to lend a hand, teach a child how to fish, and help other members with setup and cleanup activities.

 

The richly deserved awards will be presented at the Silvio O. Conte Memorial Banquet at the Cheshire Rod and Gun Club on the evening of April 16.   This year the event will also be in memoriam to the late Chuck Jones of Dalton.  Tickets which cost $30 pp can be obtained from any BCLS delegate.   *****

 

The annual Springfield Sportsmen’s Show opens next Friday and runs through Sunday at the Big E in West Springfield.  The hours are Friday from 12 to 8 PM, Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM.  Tickets are $13 for adults, $5 for kids 6-12 and 5 yrs and under free.  It is billed as the undisputedly largest “pure” sportsmen’s show in the Northeast.  The show includes the best of hunting, fishing, boating and adventure recreation that the outdoor world has to offer all bundled together in one great event.  It is filled with hundreds of booths, exhibits, seminars and action areas.    Click onto www.osegshows.com for more information. *****

 

There will be a firearms safety course on February 21 at the Greylock Community Club in North Adams.  This class is required in order to obtain a LTC/FID Card.  The Class will be taught by Dan Peck, an NRA and Mass State Police Certified Instructor who can be reached at 413-663-4896.*****

 

The folks at the local chapter of the International Defense Pistol Association (IDPA) are gearing up for its 2016 season.  Shawn Sullivan will be taking the lead this year.  There will be a meeting with interested folks who wish to be involved in IDPA at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association house next Saturday at 11AM.  For more information, contact Shawn at ssullee@icloud.com. *****

 

The Bay State Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is having a banquet on Saturday, February 27 at the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club.    It is a social evening of fun, great food and camaraderie all for the benefit of elk country.  Tickets are limited, so purchase yours today for a chance to win top notch firearms, premium hunts and exclusive home furnishings.  Doors open, at 5:00 PM. Click onto the RMEF Baystate Chapter for more information or call Gary D. Johnston at  (413) 298-3623.