Clark Planetarium presents IMAX® adventure film expedition leader Saturday



On Saturday, Jan. 27, at 4 p.m., the Clark Planetarium will welcome Scaturro for a Mystery of the Nile Special Engagement, featuring a showing of the IMAX adventure film followed by his lively, personal account of the grueling expedition.

"Pasquale Scaturro is no stranger to adventure and has the stories to prove it," said Clark Planetarium director, Seth Jarvis. "We are thrilled that he has accepted our invitation to share his experiences with us. Rarely do we have the opportunity to invite the public to meet and speak with the stars of the films that we show."

Scaturro's accomplishments are not limited to navigating raging waters. He has also led ascents of many of Earth's highest peaks. In 2001, he led the National Federation of the Blind Everest Expedition, helping blind climber Erik Weihenmayer reach the summit. The expedition was the cover feature of the June 2001 issue of Time Magazine, which dubbed it "one of the most successful Mt. Everest expeditions in history." Recently, Scatturo led a new IMAX film expedition to the North Face of the infamous Eiger in Switzerland.

Scaturro has also been featured in rafting and mountaineering film projects for ESPN, Turner Television, MacGillivray Freeman Films, MSNBC, MSN, PBS, Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel and OrbitaMax.

Mystery of the Nile Special Engagement: Saturday, Jan. 27, 2007: 4 - 5:45 p.m.

Mystery of the Nile: 4 p.m.
Presentation by Pasquale Scaturro: immediately following, until 5:45 p.m.

Tickets to the Mystery of the Nile Special Engagement are $7 for Clark Planetarium members, $10 for non-members (all ages). They will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the planetarium. For more information, call (801) 456-4966.

Mystery of the Nile will be showing at the Clark Planetarium's ATK IMAX Theatre through May 2007. Visit http://www.clarkplanetarium.org for tickets and a complete schedule of movie events.



UTAH STATE PARKS BOARD MEETS IN SALT LAKE
Salt Lake City-- The Board of Utah State Parks and Recreation meets Monday, February 5. The public is welcome to attend a public meeting at 9 a.m., at the Department of Natural Resources building located at 1594 West North Temple.

Topics to be discussed include boating rule amendments, This Is The Place Heritage Park update, Trails Advisory Council member approval, Dead Horse Point Resource Management Plan (RMP) approval, and Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Approval.

BOARD OF UTAH STATE PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING
FEBRUARY 5, 2007, 9:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
1594 WEST NORTH TEMPLE
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
AGENDA

9:00 a.m. 1. Welcome and Review and Acceptance of Agenda ACTION
- Parks Board Chairman Scott Parson

9:05 a.m. 2. Review and Acceptance of December 21, 2006 Minutes ACTION
- Scott Parson

9:10 a.m. 3. Director's Report INFORMATION
- Administration - Director Mary Tullius
- Operations - Deputy Director Bruce Hamilton
- Administrative Services - Deputy Director Mark Forbes

9:40 a.m. 4. Legislative and Budget Update INFORMATION
- Mary Tullius and Mark Forbes

10:20 a.m. Break

10:30 a.m. 5. Boating Rule Amendments ACTION
- Boating Coordinator Dave Harris

11:00 a.m. 6. This Is The Place Contract Update ACTION
- Mary Tullius

11:30 a.m. 7. Trails Advisory Council Member Approval ACTION
- Bruce Hamilton

11:35 a.m. 8. Trails Project Sponsor Change ACTION
- Bruce Hamilton

11:40 a.m. 9. Dead Horse Point RMP Approval ACTION
- Planning Manager Rock Smith

12:00 p.m. 10. Golf Passes ACTION
- Mark Forbes

12:20 p.m. 11. Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Approval ACTION
- Mark Forbes

12:35 p.m. 12. Public Comment INFORMATION

1:00 p.m. 13. Adjournment

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, anyone needing special accommodations (including auxiliary communicative aids and services) should contact Wendy Griffith at
(801) 538-7418 at least five working days before the meeting.

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS
January 27 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Winter Birding Hike: Join park staff from 10 a.m. to noon for the St. George Winter Bird Festival. Go birding among lava flows and towering sandstone cliffs as we search out red-naped sapsuckers, crissal thrashers, and other wintering residents on a three-mile round-trip hike. Binoculars recommended. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

January 27 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Basic Snow Cave Class. Join park staff at 10 a.m. to learn the basics of building a snow cave. Knowing how to build a snow cave is not only fun, but also can be vital in any winter survival situation. Come dressed in layers with a waterproof shell. Meet at the Educational Yurt. For more information call (435) 654-1791.

February 1 - March 31 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Guided Snowshoe Hikes. A naturalist is available Wednesday - Saturday for guided snowshoe hikes within the park. For more information, or to schedule a hike, please call (435) 654-1791.

February 1 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Art Gallery: Antelope Island State Park staff and volunteers display their artwork and photographs in the visitor center art gallery. For more information, please call (801) 725-9263.

February 2 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Friends of Wasatch Full Moon Snowshoe Hike: Join park staff for the annual snowshoe hike under the light of the full moon. Hikes for beginners, intermediate and advanced levels are available. Members of Friends are free. $5 for non-members. Snowshoe rentals are available for $5/pair. Registration is required by calling (435) 654-1791.

February 3 Rock Cliff Nature Center/Jordanelle State Park - Francis
Track Me If You Can! Join the park naturalist from 10 a.m. to noon and learn basic tracking skills necessary to understanding local wildlife. Bring snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park. Pre-registration is required. Day-use fee is $7 per vehicle with up to eight people or free to Utah State Park pass holders. For more information call (435) 782-3030 or (435) 649-9540.

February 3 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Lava Tubes Tour: Join park staff from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., for a two-mile round-trip hike and the chance to explore the unique formations of a lava tube. Registration required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

UTAH STATE PARKS LAUNCH AND WATER CONDITIONS
Bear Lake State Park Marina: OPEN - 35 degrees, 3 inches of ice
Deer Creek State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, frozen over
East Canyon State Park: Closed - 30 degrees, 8 -12 inches of ice
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, frozen over
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina: OPEN - 26 degrees
Gunlock State Park: OPEN - 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Closed -- 30 degrees, 3 - 5 inches of ice
Hyrum Lake State Park: Closed -- 39 degrees, 4 inches of ice on west half of lake
Jordanelle State Park: Closed -- 33 degrees, some ice
Millsite State Park: Closed - 30 degrees, 4 - 6 inches of ice
Otter Creek State Park: Closed - 30 degrees, 8 -10 inches of ice
Palisade State Park: Closed - 35 degrees, 4 inches of ice
Piute State Park: Closed -- 30 degrees, frozen over
Quail Creek State Park: OPEN - 40 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Closed - 34 degrees, 4 - 6 inches of ice
Rockport State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 5 - 8 inches of ice
Sand Hollow State Park: OPEN - 37 degrees
Scofield State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 12 + inches of ice
Starvation State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 3 inches of ice
Steinaker State Park: Closed - 34 degrees, 3 - 5 inches of ice
Utah Lake State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, frozen
Willard Bay State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, some ice
Yuba State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 3 - 8 inches of ice

Strawberry: Closed - 32 degrees, 20 inches of ice
Flaming Gorge: Closed - 32 degrees, 8 inches of ice

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT
Hardware Ranch:
Mechanical problems with snow cat. However, Strawberry Valley and Hell's Hollow on the Sinks road were groomed January 16.

Monte Cristo:
As of January 16 there is 34" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 43" at Monte Cristo.
Grooming has been done on the following dates and locations:
January 15 - Wasatch Ridge, Woodruff Gate, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek.
January 14 - Red Spur
January 13 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek
January 12 - Arb's Basin, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek
January 11 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Scare Canyon
January 10 - Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to Woodruff Gate

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Trail's have been groomed on:
January 21 - Garden City
January 20 - Amazon
January 20 - Beaver Creek
January 10 - Franklin Basin
January 10 - Tony Grove
January 7 - Swan Flat
January 2 - Sinks Trail

Wasatch Mountain:
January 12 - Snake creek, Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs, American Fork Canyon to the top of the narrows. All other areas need more snow.

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Grooming activity is occurring, but not a lot of deep powder exists.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
Highway 150 and the North Slope road are groomed. Daily grooming continues

Uintah Basin:
January 19 - Don Hatch Trail to Flaming Gorge Lodge, then to Red Canyon Lodge to Deep Creek, and Summit Springs to Spirit Lake.
January 18 - Red Cloud Loop Complex, Dry Fork up to Leidy Turn around and out to the yurt at Summit Park, East Park to Highway 191, and Taylor Mountain.

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
No grooming due to lack of snow.

Mt Nebo:
January 16 - A camouflage backpack was found near Devils Kitchen on the Nephi side and rangers have it at Yuba State Park. To claim, please call (435) 758-2611.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
January 19 - Ephraim and 12-mile canyons

Fish Lake:
All three mountains have been groomed.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
January 20 - Midway, Cedar Breaks, and Brain Head.

Strawberry:
No new snow; snow conditions are hard packed and sugary. Please be careful of off trail hazards, as snow levels are low



FISHING REPORT FOR SOUTHEASTERN UTAH

GENERAL New for 2007 is a 2-pole provision and 8-trout limit at Scofield Reservoir. Pick up a new fishing guide available at license agents and DWR offices statewide. Check out the highlights on page 3. Fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase and cost $26 for adults. Kids under 14 fish for free.

ABAJO MOUNTAINS No report.

CLEVELAND RESERVOIR The ice is about a foot and a half thick. Rainbow trout run from 12-16 inches. Cutthroats are a little larger. Try a chartreuse rat finkie with a waxworm just off the bottom.

ELECTRIC LAKE No report.

GIGLIOTTI POND A week ago, fishing was fair using jigs tipped with cheese. Rainbow trout get up to 10 inches. The ice is about a foot thick.

HUNTINGTON RESERVOIR (also known as MAMMOTH RESERVOIR )

A party of two fishermen caught 40 tiger trout last Friday on the west side of the reservoir in 25-30 feet of water. Fish ranged between 11-17 inches and were suspended in 10 feet of water or less. The ice is more than 18 inches thick. Try a chartreuse grub, jig, or ice fly tipped with bait. Best baits include minnows, chub meat, mealworms and nightcrawlers. The bite is light. Closed to the possession of cutthroat trout.

JOES VALLEY RESERVOIR Mike Milburn and Alan Green fished last Thursday and caught 39 fish in 4 hours. Splake and cutthroats ranged from 12-17 inches. They fished from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in 15-22 feet of water. Ice was 14 inches thick. They used an attractor above a chartreuse ice fly tipped with chub meat. Casey Olsen fished on Friday with a party of four near Seely Creek Bay. They caught 25 fish in 4 hours using chartreuse jigs or spoons with chub meat. Justin Hart and Kenny Breidinger fished in Seely Creek Cove just off the bottom They caught 9 fish from 10-18 inches. Most were splake with a few tigers. Special regulations apply. Please refer to the new fishing guide.

LAKE POWELL Visit http://www.wayneswords.com for the fishing report, provided by Wayne Gustaveson, DWR project leader.

LASAL MOUNTAINS Mountain reservoirs are frozen and inaccessible. No report.

SCOFIELD RESERVOIR Lieutenant Carl Gramlich fished last Friday. Success was fair. The bite was sporadic. Carl used a chartreuse jighead tipped with a worm close to the bottom in 10-14 feet of water. DWR fisheries technician Mike Ault conducted a creel survey on Saturday. By noon there were 200 anglers on the ice. Most were catching fish and a few did exceptionally well. All checked fish ranged between 14-18 inches. The standard tackle was a small jig tipped with either worms, mealworms or waxworms. The two most popular locations were the southeast side of the reservoir and around the island. The trout limit is now 8 fish.



TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ISU WORLD SINGLE DISTANCES SPEED SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Utah welcomes back international competition for the ISU World Single Distances Speed Skating Championships. The Fastest Ice on Earth is pleased to welcome back international competition. This year the eyes of the world will be focused on the Olympic Oval March 8th, 9th, 10th & 11th. The championships will include over 100 international athletes from 15 different countries. The United States will also have the opportunity to showcase their talent at the event. Those in attendance representing the United States will include:

Chad Hedrick

Torino Olympic Games

5,000 meters - Gold Medal

10,000 meters - Silver Medal

1500 meters - Bronze Medal

Shani Davis

2006 Olympic champion at 1,000-meters, becoming the first black athlete to win an individual gold medal in Olympic Winter Games history

Earned a silver medal in the 1,500-meters at the 2006 Torino Games

Elli Ochowicz

2nd, 2006 U.S. Long Track Championships

2003 U.S. Sprint Champion

1st, overall 2003 U.S. Junior Speed skating Championships

2002 and 2006 Olympian

Catherine Raney

1998, 2002 and 2006 Olympian

Current American Record Holder: 3000m, 5000m 10,000m

1999, 2002, 2003 and 2006 U.S. All-round Champion

Kip Carpenter

2002 Olympian

500-meter bronze medalist at 2002 Olympic Winter Games

8th, overall 2002 and 2003 World Sprint Championship

Tucker Fredericks

2004/05 World Cup Medalist

1st, 500m 2003 World Junior Speed skating Championships

3rd, 500m 2002 World Junior Speed skating Championships

1st, overall 2002 U.S. Junior Speed skating Championships

1st, overall 2003 U.S. Junior Speed skating Championships

You won't want to miss the action! The Championships will feature the fastest speed skaters on the planet; so get your tickets now, because they'll go fast too! Prices on tickets are per person, per day, and are as follows:

Children 5 and Under: Free

Children 6-12: $5.00

Adults 13 and Older: $7.00

Adults 65 and Older: $5.00

All Tickets are General Admission.

Tickets may be purchased by:

1) Going to: http://www.olyparks.com/

2) Calling the Oval at: (801) 968-OVAL (6825)

3) Going to: http://www.smithstix.com

4) Going directly to the Ticket Office at the Oval

Are you a local company looking to get involved in the community? Or are you a company that is looking for a way to give back to those who have supported you? US Speedskating still has corporate sponsorships available. Sponsoring the ISU World Single Distances Speed Skating Championships will be a rewarding and beneficial endeavor for you and your company. Interested companies may contact Thomas Mclean at (801) 417-5374 or tmclean@usspeedskating.org .


LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE - STEPHAN BOSCH BOBSLED DRIVING SCHOOL

The Utah Olympic Park is now offering one day bobsled driving schools. The Stephan Bosch Bobsled Driving School is your chance to learn how to drive a bobsled from an experienced coach. Stephan Bosch is the current America's Cup champion, former 4-time junior world champion and world cup medalist.

Instruction includes video training, visualization techniques, track inspections, stretching exercises, sled mechanics, runner alignment, and a feedback session. Only six Stephan Bosch Bobsled Driving Schools will be offered this year so sign up early. Dates for the bobsled schools are March 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, and 24 and are held from 2-9 p.m. The cost bobsled driving camp is $500.

Schedule includes:

Meeting and video about bobsledding

Sled mechanic, runners, alignment

Track walk

Sliding from junior start, 2 runs

Dinner

Feedback session

Sliding from junior start, 2 runs

Each participant will receive a catered dinner and a photo. All participants must be 18 years or older. All participants must meet the same health guidelines that are required for the Comet ride including, no heart, neck, back, kidney problems, recent surgeries or pregnancy.

Date and class size accommodations can be made for private or corporate groups.

Space is limited to six participants per school so reserve you spot now! If you have any questions or would like to reserve you spot now please call reservations at 435.658.4206.

UAF BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING SET FOR JANUARY 31

The quarterly Board of Directors meeting for the Utah Athletic Foundation is Wednesday, January 31, at 3 p.m. The location is at the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce Building, 175 E. 400 S., Suite 600, Salt Lake City.

JANUARY 2006 - MARCH 2007 UPCOMING EVENTS AT OLYMPIC PARKS

Jan. 27, 2007, Wasatch Luge Club Founders Race, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 10, 2007, Ice Engineer's Open, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 8-11, 2007, FIBT Invitational, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 4-10, 2007, Deaflympic Winter Games, Soldier Hollow

Feb. 6-10, 2007, Freestyle NorAm, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 6-11, 2007, USBSF Western Championships, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 13-25, 2007, Luge Youth Nationals, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 16-17, 2007, Nordic Jumping Junior Olympics Qualifier, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 20-22, 2007, Freestyle Divisional Championships, Utah Olympic Park

Feb. 23-25, 2007, "Weekend Warrior" Long Track Speed Skating Camp, Utah Olympic Oval

Feb. 27-Mar. 3, 2007, Nordic Jumping Junior Olympics Championships, Utah Olympic Park

Mar. 2-5, 2007, Chevrolet Jumping/Nordic Combined Junior Olympics, Utah Olympic Park

Mar. 5-10, 2007, Chevrolet Cross Country Junior Olympics, Soldier Hollow

Mar. 8-11, 2007, 2007 World Single Distance Championships - Utah Olympic Oval

Mar. 15-17, 2007, Champions Challenge - Utah Olympic Oval



Victor Snags Third IPC World Cup Win
ASPEN, Colo. (Jan. 21) - Stephani Victor (Park City, UT) made it three victories in four days, and Sandy Dukat (Vail, CO) made it to the podium for the second consecutive day as the Challenge Aspen IPC (International Paralympic Committee) World Cup concluded Sunday at Aspen Mountain with its second slalom event.

As she did on Saturday, Victor easily distanced herself from the rest of the women's mono-ski field, beating Austria's Claudia Loesch, the second-place finisher, by nearly nine seconds.

"I felt like I skied better today," Victor said. "I felt more solid on the ski, and the confidence from yesterday's win certainly gave me a boost coming into today's race."

Dukat also found herself in the same position as yesterday's event by sitting in third place after the first run in the women's standing division on Sunday. However, she was unable to overtake Germany's Andrea Rothfuss as she had been able to the day before. Nonetheless, Dukat said she was happy to end the event and move into the upcoming World Cup event with two strong finishes.

"I'm just going to go into it, and try to take the energy I built over the past couple days into Kimberley," Dukat said. "It was great. I went out and pushed myself outside of my comfort zone and put two solid runs together in two days. I was happy to keep the momentum going for a second day to get third place."

In the men's standing division, Brad Washburn (Littleton, CO) recorded his highest finish of the week Sunday, taking seventh place to give himself another strong result in a highly competitive field.

"I've skied better in past races, but I think I'm doing really well this year and I'm happy with where I'm at," Washburn said.

Canada's Christopher Williamson won the men's visually impaired slalom for the second straight day with an alternate guide after A.J. Brown, his regular guide suffered a concussion Thursday. Erik Petersen, the coach for the skiing program at the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, CO, stepped in again Sunday to lead Williamson to the win. After the race, Petersen gave all the credit to Williamson.

"I've never worked with him in the past, and I've never even guided before," Petersen said. "But he's such a veteran, and he taught me very well. He showed me the secrets that were very simple - how to keep close, good communication. We just played a little cat-and-mouse game, with me being the mouse and him being the cat."

Conditions for Sunday's action were less favorable than they had been the first four days of the event due to snow that came through on Saturday night. The snow continued to fall throughout the day and delayed the start of the first run, but the volunteers smoothing the course worked hard all day (and all week) to make sure the run was up to par.

As the event concluded, organizers and athletes alike were very happy with how the event was run and expressed interest in bringing the World Cup back to Aspen.

"Well, the weather's cooperated and we had tons of volunteers and tons of help on the hill," said Kevin Jardine, Director of Skiing at Challenge Aspen and 2006 U.S. Paralympic Alpine Ski Team head coach. "I really don't know how it could have gone any better. All the coaches are happy and everybody wants to come back."

"I think the overall feeling has been great," Dukat said. "From the volunteers to the course crew, we felt really welcome here. I'm very thankful that Challenge Aspen stepped up to bring the World Cup to the U.S. and I look forward to seeing if they'll do it again."

"This week has been epic," said Houston Cowan, co-founder and CEO of Challenge Aspen. "I don't think [the town of Aspen] knew what hit them when the Paralympic athletes came here, and now they want to make sure it keeps coming back."

The U.S. Disabled Alpine Team finished with nine top-three finishes at the Challenge Aspen IPC World Cup, and will now head to Kimberley, British Columbia for the second stop on the World Cup circuit. Competition will start Wednesday with another slalom event.

"I look for our guys to do good there," said Head Coach Ray Watkins. "They've had a good history in Kimberley, and we're just going to strap it on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and see where that takes us."

For complete results from the Challenge Aspen IPC World Cup, go to http://www.asdracing.org/html/calendar-results-wc.htm .

CHALLENGE ASPEN IPC WORLD CUP
Aspen, CO - January 21, 2007
Slalom Race 2
Women - Mono-ski
1. Stephani Victor, Park City, UT, 1:51.60
2. Claudia Loesch, Austria, 2:00.35
3. Kuniko Obinata, Japan, 2:02.76
4. Laurie Stephens, Wenham, MA, 2:07.93
-
Women - Standing
1. Lauren Woolstencraft, Canada, 1:43.14
2. Andrea Rothfuss, Germany, 1:46.90
3. Sandy Dukat, Vail, CO, 1:48.55
-
6. Elitsa Storey, Ketchum, ID, 2:07.90
-
Women - Visually Impaired
1. Sabine Gasteiger (Guide: Emil Gasteiger), Austria, 1:54.50
--
Men - Mono-ski
1. Juergen Egle, Austria, 1:35.70
2. Martin Braxenthaler, Germany, 1:38.39
3. Harald Eder, Austria, 1:38.46
-
9. Carl Burnett, Winter Park, CO, 1:49.99
10. John Knudsen, Winter Park, CO, 2:14.43
-
Men - Standing
1. Masahiko Tokai, Japan, 1:36.77
2. Michael Bruegger, Switzerland, 1:37.22
3. Wolfgang Moosbrugger, Austria, 1:37.55
-
7. Brad Washburn, Littelton, CO, 1:42.88
14. Ralph Green, Vail, CO, 1:53.98
15. Ian Jansing, Winter Park, CO, 1:54.23
-
Men - Visually Impaired
1. Christopher Williamson (Guide: Erik Petersen), Canada, 1:32.02
2. Gianmaria Dal Maistro (Guide: Tommaso Balasso), Italy, 1:34.38
3. Gerd Gradwohl (Guide: Karl-Heinz Vachenauer), Germany, 1:36.65



Thirty Desert Bighorn Find New Home in SE Utah

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) released 30 desert bighorn sheep in the Dirty Devil drainage north of Lake Powell on January 18, 2007. Transplants included 19 ewes, 5 lambs, and 6 rams. The DWR contracted with Pathfinder Helicopters to catch the elusive animals in southern Utah locations, where bighorn populations had become numerous. Animals were captured by entanglement in nets, deployed from a helicopter overhead. Captive animals are then airlifted to trucks and trailers for a road trip to their release site.

All captured sheep received health examinations, vaccinations, and ear markers. Six were fitted with radio collars to monitor movements, survival, and the eventual success of the release. The oldest ram was 3 ½ years old, two were 2 1/2, and three were yearlings. Biologists prefer to transplant young rams, as they are less likely to wander away from the release area, and have a longer life expectancy than older rams.

Desert bighorn sheep are native to Utah. However, due to disease, populations declined to very low levels by 1960. Conservation efforts by the DWR and conservation groups like the Utah Foundation for North American Wild Sheep have allowed desert bighorn sheep populations to spread throughout much of their former range.

These bighorns will supplement an existing population on the west side of the Dirty Devil River, where a small group had been released 10 years earlier. The original transplants had slowly increased, but not enough to fill the unoccupied habitat available. It is hoped that these two populations will connect to support a faster growing bighorn population in the desert country of southeastern Utah.



REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR FEBRUARY

SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. For more information, please call (801) 501-0850 or visit our website at http://www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link. Attendance is limited to fifty participants on a first- come first- served basis.

WINTER BIKE MAINTENANCE

Thursday, February 1st, 7pm

Whether you ride all winter or hang up the wheels to hit the slopes, come learn about maintaining your bicycle during those "off" months. We will discuss how to treat a bike well during winter's harsh riding conditions, how to get a bike off the trainer and back onto the road, and how to bring a bike out of storage for those warmer days. Our discussion will be lead by an REI expert who knows his way around the winter roads as a full time commuter and will discuss both maintenance ideas and the tools every cyclist should consider. Whatever your cycling season, we can help keep your cycling enjoyable.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: INTRO TO AVALANCHE AWARENESS

Thursday, February 8th, 7pm

The Wasatch Front is home to some of the world's finest winter backcountry terrain. But the rise in popularity of backcountry skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling comes with an increased risk in avalanche danger. In this evening's presentation, a local avalanche professional will tell their story about close calls or accidents they have experienced in the backcountry and show a narrated video of avalanches, people triggering avalanches and the destructive power of avalanches. This presentation will then focus on instruction on the basics of how to recognize avalanche terrain & obvious signs of instability, safe travel practices, basics of avalanche rescue equipment and self-rescue procedures, and where to obtain information about current avalanche conditions. The Know Before You Go avalanche education program is an all ages and family event presented by experts from the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center. This lecture always fills to capacity, so please arrive early to ensure that you get a seat.

GPS 101

Thursday, February 15th, 7pm

A Global Positioning System is a fun and accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert Dan Stites as he unveils the mysteries of this fun and fascinating piece of technology. This presentation will cover basic GPS functions such as determining latitude and longitude, programming routes, and recording travel.

TRIATHLON 101

Thursday, February 22nd, 7pm

Calling all prospective triathletes! Join David Pruetz, USA Triathlon Certified Coach, Ironman Triathlete, owner/coach with In Training LLC, this evening for an introduction to the sport. This clinic is intended for anyone interested in getting involved in the sport of triathlon and will cover the evolution of triathlon, equipment needs, nutritional needs, triathlon training programs/process, open-water swimming vs. pool swimming, transition training, race categories, race distances, and much, much more!

SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. For more information, please call 486-2100 or visit our website at http://www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link and select Salt Lake City.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: INTRO TO AVALANCHE AWARENESS

Tuesday, February 6th, 7pm

The Wasatch Front is home to some of the world's finest winter backcountry terrain. But the rise in popularity of backcountry skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling comes with an increased risk in avalanche danger. In this evening's presentation, a local avalanche professional will tell their story about close calls or accidents they have experienced in the backcountry and show a narrated video of avalanches, people triggering avalanches and the destructive power of avalanches. This presentation will then focus on instruction on the basics of how to recognize avalanche terrain & obvious signs of instability, safe travel practices, basics of avalanche rescue equipment and self-rescue procedures, and where to obtain information about current avalanche conditions. The Know Before You Go avalanche education program is an all ages and family event presented by experts from the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center. This lecture always fills to capacity, so please arrive early to ensure that you get a seat.

SKI MOUNTAINEERING IN NEW ZEALAND'S SOUTHERN ALPS

Tuesday, February 13th, 7pm

The Southern Alps of New Zealand are a skier's paradise with some of the most challenging ski mountaineering terrain on earth. Located on the bottom of the globe at forty-three degrees south and right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, they are a fusion of wild scenery, steep peaks and big drops. In October of 2006, Andrew McLean, Steve Romeo and Chris Figenshau joined Kiwi local Grant Guise for three weeks of ski mountaineering around the island's highest peak, Mt. Cook. Along with wild skiing, the team discovered the world's most dangerous outhouse and the reason why a NZ bee keeper would eventually go on to be the first person to summit Mt. Everest. Ski mountaineering expert Andrew McLean will present this evening's slide show.

SKI & SNOWBOARD TUNE & WAX

Tuesday, February 20th, 7pm

Come join the ranks of do-it-yourselfers who are discovering that tuning your skis at home can not only be a great way to save your hard earned money, but one of the most gratifying hobbies you will ever undertake. Join REI shop master tech Jon Hulse this evening for some expert instruction on waxing, sharpening, and P-texing. By learning to tune your own skis and snowboards, you can ensure that your equipment will perform at its peak.

SPRING SKIING UTAH AND ALASKA

Tuesday, February 27th, 7pm

Whether in Utah or Alaska, spring is the time for big ski lines. From Foraker, Fairweather, and St. Elias; to Baldy, Tukhunikivatz and Timpanogos; let's visit some of the classic ski lines in two great ski states. The stable snowpack and mild weather of April and May are the necessary ingredients for safely skiing major peaks. If you want to glean beta for your own ski adventures to the mountains of Utah or Alaska, or simply to be entertained by stories and images, join guidebook author and mountain guide Tyson Bradley for an evening of ski mountaineering from the Pfiefferhorn to Denali.

COMMUNITY EVENTS:

WASATCH CITIZEN SERIES AT SUNDANCE

Saturday, February 10th, 10am

Put on by the Utah Nordic Alliance. The Wasatch Citizens Series (WCS) consists of five events held each year at the major cross country ski areas along the Wasatch Front and Back. Two classical technique and three free technique races are included to provide the balance local athletes need to prepare for national and international competition. In addition to our sixteen age and gender categories, the WCS includes novice classes, to encourage beginners to get involved in the sport, and expert classes, for more serious racers. Awards are given to the top three finishers in each of these groups at each race. Points are awarded to all race finishers, and the top three skiers in each age group receive special prizes at the end of the season. Participants' ages range from 5 to 70+, and many families regularly attend the races. Please see http://www.utahnordic.com for more information.

THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL TOUR

Tuesday & Wednesday, February 20th & 21st, 7pm

Join the U of Utah's Outdoor Recreation Program when the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour brings the spirit of outdoor adventure to Salt Lake City at Kingsbury Hall. Experience the adventure of climbing, mountain expeditions, remote cultures, and the world's last great wild places -- all brought to life on the big screen. Different films will be screened each evening. Tickets are available at REI SLC & Sandy, Kingsbury Hall, Art-tix outlets, and the Outdoor Program for $7.50 each. Money raised will benefit the Utah Avalanche Center.

BRYCE CANYON WINTER FESTIVAL

February 17th through 19th

Every Presidents Day weekend Ruby's Inn hosts the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival. The three-day event includes cross country ski races, a people-powered sled race, kids snowboot races, an archery clinic, archery biathlon competition, free snowshoe tours, free clinics in photography, navigation, winter safety, snow sculpture, kids' events, food, music and much more. Most of the clinics and events are free but there is an entry fee for some activities. Call 1-866-866-6616 or visit http://www.rubysinn.com for more information.

WASATCH CITIZEN SERIES AT WHITEPINE

Saturday, February 24th, 10am

Put on by the Utah Nordic Alliance. The Wasatch Citizens Series (WCS) consists of five events held each year at the major cross country ski areas along the Wasatch Front and Back. Two classical technique and three free technique races are included to provide the balance local athletes need to prepare for national and international competition. In addition to our sixteen age and gender categories, the WCS includes novice classes, to encourage beginners to get involved in the sport, and expert classes, for more serious racers. Awards are given to the top three finishers in each of these groups at each race. Points are awarded to all race finishers, and the top three skiers in each age group receive special prizes at the end of the season. Participants' ages range from 5 to 70+, and many families regularly attend the races. Please see http://www.utahnordic.com for more information.

CLASSES:

REI/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GPS NAVIGATION DAY

Saturday, February 17th, 9am

Spend a day outdoors and an hour indoors with navigation experts from REI and National Geographic to learn how to use your GPS unit in conjunction with mapping software. Participants should have some familiarity with GPS and/or have attended REI's GPS 101 evening clinic. You'll practice finding your way from point A to point B, first establishing where you are, and then where you want to go. Learn route-finding skills, such as: how to transfer waypoints from your PC to your GPS unit, how to use the U.T.M. grid system vs. latitude and longitude coordinates, and how to create your own custom maps. Classroom session takes place at REI Sandy, field session at Dimple Dell Park. Cost is $15 for REI members, $30 for non-members. Advance registration is required, please call (801) 501-0850 or stop into REI's Sandy location.

STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS; WILDERNESS FIRST AID CLASS

Saturday, February 3rd, 10th & 24th, 9am

Created for all outdoor enthusiasts, the Basic Wilderness Life Support® certification is a one day course designed to help you prevent and treat injuries and illnesses common in outdoor activities. Developed at the University of Utah, School of Medicine the course will teach you to prepare for your outing, assess injuries and scene safety, decide whether to evacuate or treat a patient, and methods of evacuation. The curriculum was developed from our advanced course used to train medical professionals and will be taught by one of our certified instructors. The course includes morning lectures at REI and an afternoon outdoors (weather permitting) participating in hands on scenarios. At the end of the day you will receive your BWLS certificate. Please register by calling REI's customer service department at (801) 486-2100. Cost is $95 per person. For more information, please contact Bob Richards at AdventureMed, 801-990-2800 or visit http://www.bwls.org .

AVALANCHE AWARENESS CLASS

Friday & Saturday, February 9th & 10th

An introduction to rescue skills & avalanche beacon searches, route finding, snow pack evaluation and minimizing hazards. Cost is $99 per person. Please contact 801-550-EXUM (3986) or visit http://www.exum.ofutah.com for more information.

LEVEL 2 AVALANCHE COURSE

Friday February 23rd through Sunday February 25th

Review and expand upon material learned in level 1. Learn to identify snow crystal types and processes leading to them; how to record and interpret information gained from snow pits, stability tests, weather and other factors contributing to snow strength. Friday & Saturday evenings; Saturday & Sunday field classes. Cost is $225 per person. Please contact 801-550-EXUM (3986) or visit http://www.exum.ofutah.com for more information.

COMMUNITY GROUP MEETINGS & PRESENTATIONS

UTAH NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY: SAVING UTAH'S NATIVE PLANTS; RARE, MEDIUM RARE, AND THE RARELY RARE

Wednesday, February 7th, 7pm

The Utah Native Plant Society is dedicated to the appreciation, preservation, conservation and responsible use of the native plant and plant communities found in the state of Utah and the Intermountain West. This evening, join Tony Frates, joint chair of conservation for Utah Native Plant Society (UNPS). Utah is home to many rare and endangered plants, yet the State of Utah has essentially no laws to help protect them. In recent years, declining federal enforcement of the Endangered Species Act has left litigation as the only means to prevent irreversible loss. UNPS has been a reluctant partner in this process, joining with other organizations to try and save plants such as the beautiful Dwarf Bear-claw Poppy of southern Utah. Come and hear about recent progress in this ongoing battle for the plants. Visit http://www.unps.org for more information.



UTAH STATEWIDE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Wednesday, February 14th, 7pm

The Utah Statewide Archaeological Society (USAS) is an organization conceived for the individual who is curious about or wants to learn more about archaeology and the state's prehistoric cultures. It is dedicated to the study and preservation of Utah's past. Meetings and presentations are free of charge and open to the public. Visit http://www.utaharchaeology.org .

UTAH WHITEWATER CLUB

Thursday, February 15th, 7pm

The UWC is a small but dedicated group of enthusiastic paddlers dedicated to promoting the sport of canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Formed in Salt Lake City in 1991 by a small but persistent group of local paddlers, the UWC now has membership into the hundreds. Activities and interests of the club include instruction, safety, organized trips, river issue advocacy, and having fun. Meetings and presentations are free of charge and open to the public Check out http://www.utahwhitewaterclub.org for more information.



Buy Second Pole Permit, Fish With Two Poles at Waters Across Utah
Beginning Jan. 1, 2007, anglers who have a valid fishing license and a $15 second pole permit can fish with two poles at waters across Utah

An exciting opportunity is available to Utah's anglers this year.

Before Jan. 1, 2007, fishing opportunities for those who bought a second pole permit were limited to a few fishing waters that held mostly warm water fish. The Utah Wildlife Board has approved a change for 2007, however. Now anglers who have a valid fishing license and a second pole permit can fish with two fishing poles at waters across the state.

Craig Schaugaard, a regional aquatics manager for the Division of Wildlife Resources, is excited about the opportunity the permit provides anglers to pursue fish at different water depths.

"What I like to do at Pineview Reservoir is fish with one pole right on the bottom for perch. The crappie in the reservoir are suspended about 10 feet off the bottom. With the two-pole permit, I can fish with one pole at the perch level and one at the crappie level," Schaugaard says.

He says the new permit will also work equally well at other waters by allowing anglers to sample two parts of the water at the same time. This two-poling method is especially useful if anglers have electronic fish finders that allow them to locate fish at different water levels.

More opportunity to catch fish, especially when fishing is a little bit slow, is another benefit to having a second pole permit. "When fishing is a little bit slow, it gives you twice the chance to catch a fish, and it's easy to watch (your poles)," Schaugaard says.

He adds one caution, however.

"When fishing is fast, if you've got two poles going you could end up hooking fish deeply and not be able to release them. If you've got two fish hooked deeply, and you're just one fish away from your limit, then you've got an over-limit.

"You need to be a little careful when you're fishing with two poles, but it will be well worth it if you give it a try," Schaugaard says.

More information about fishing with two poles is available in the 2007 Utah Fishing Guide. You can also call the nearest DWR office with any questions.

2006 Drawing Odds Help Hunters Applying This Year

The odds of drawing a Utah big game permit in 2006 are now available in a Division of Wildlife Resources report.

"Drawing odds usually don't change drastically from year to year, so I think hunters who are applying for a Utah big game permit for 2007 will be very interested in seeing the report," says Judi Tutorow, wildlife licensing coordinator for the DWR. "And the best part is, it doesn't cost anything to view it."

Hunters who have access to the Internet can view and download the 2006 Big Game Odds Report for free by visiting the DWR's Web site at http://www.wildlife.utah.gov .

The publication is available by visiting the Hunting section of the home page and clicking on Big Game. After arriving at the Big Game section, scroll down to Big Game Statistics and click on 2006 bucks, bulls and once-in-a-lifetime bonus point & draw statistics. That selection will take you to the 2006 Big Game Odds Report.

The report also can be viewed at DWR offices in Ogden, Salt Lake City, Springville, Vernal, Price and Cedar City. If you'd like to purchase a copy of the report, they're available at each office for $17.34, plus sales tax.

Hunters are reminded that applications for 2007 Utah big game hunting permits must be received no later than Feb. 17 to be included in the draw for permits. Mail-in applications must be received no later than 5 p.m., and applications submitted through the DWR's Web site must be received no later than 11 p.m. that day.

For more information, call the Utah Wildlife Administrative Services office at 1-800-221-0659, the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

Get Extra Deer Hunting Opportunities - Join Dedicated Hunter Program

You can hunt all three general deer hunting seasons in your favorite region in Utah by joining the state's Dedicated Hunter program.

"Hunters who join the program are guaranteed a permit for the region of their choice. After what happened in 2006, that's a big incentive to join," says Jill West, coordinator of volunteers for the Division of Wildlife Resources.

In 2006, all of the permits for the Central, Northeastern, Southeastern and Southern regions were taken in the big game draw.

"Based on what happened last year, we anticipate that permits for all four of those regions will go again in the draw this year," West says. "Dedicated hunters don't have to worry that they won't get a permit, though, because they're guaranteed a permit for the region of their choice."

In addition to receiving a guaranteed permit, those who join the program get a chance to help Utah's wildlife by volunteering on wildlife conservation projects.

Must Join by Feb. 16

To join the three-year program, hunters must complete an online Wildlife Conservation course and submit an application no later than 5 p.m. on Feb. 16.

After paying their program registration fees and completing some additional requirements, hunters will receive a deer hunting permit for the region of their choice and a chance to hunt all three general seasons in that region.

The Wildlife Conservation course is available online at the Dedicated Hunter Web site ( http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/dh/ ). The course takes about 45 minutes to complete.

Hunters who don't have access to the Internet should contact their nearest DWR regional office to make arrangements to take the course.

Additional Requirements

After completing the Wildlife Conservation course, hunters must pay their program fee ($195 for most residents and $1,032 for most nonresidents) by Feb. 16. The fee includes a participant's deer hunting permits, for the region of their choice, during the three years they're in the program.

More information about the program is available on page 26 of the 2007 Utah Big Game Proclamation and at wildlife.utah.gov/dh/ on the Web. Those with questions may also call the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

"The program provides hunters extra deer hunting opportunities in the region they want to hunt and helps them give back to Utah's wildlife by working on wildlife conservation projects," West said. "Hunters who have been in the program have really enjoyed it."

Black Bear Applications Accepted Only On the Web This Year

Applications for Utah black bear hunting permits will be accepted only through the Internet this year.
You can apply for a permit at http://www.wildlife.utah.gov beginning Feb. 1.

Applications must be received through the Web site no later than 11 p.m. on Feb. 28 to be included in the draw for permits. Draw results will be available by March 29.

"In the past, black bear hunters could apply through the Internet, or with a paper application," says Judi Tutorow, wildlife licensing for the DWR. "Because so many people have access to the Internet now, and there are so many advantages to applying online, we won't be accepting paper applications for black bear permits this year."

Tutorow says when you apply online, you can submit your application in a matter of minutes. After you submit your application, you'll receive a confirmation that it was completed correctly and that it will be entered in the draw.

If you make a mistake while applying, the system will warn you about the mistake so you can correct it.

"The Internet provides so many advantages that it doesn't make sense to apply any other way," Tutorow says.

In 2006, more than 6,400 hunters applied for a Utah black bear permit. Of the more than 6,400 hunters, only 230 applied with a paper application. Every year, about 100 hunters who applied with a paper application the year before switch to the Internet and apply online. "Based on that trend, we believe there will be about 100 hunters who wanted to apply with a paper application this year," she says.

If you don't have a computer, Tutorow says there are plenty of places to find one.

"If you don't have access to the Internet, come into a DWR office," she says. "You can use one of our computers, and we'd be happy to help you apply.

"Public libraries also have computers and librarians who can help you use them. And you probably know someone who has a computer in their home and would be happy to help you use it."

If you have questions, or need assistance, please call the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

Get Permission First

Tutorow encourages hunters to obtain written permission from landowners before applying for a hunt that occurs on private land. "Written permission is required to hunt private property, and we encourage hunters to obtain that permission before applying," Tutorow says. "We don't want hunters to draw a permit and then find they can't use it because landowners won't give them permission to hunt the area."

The DWR doesn't have a list of people who own land where black bear hunts occur, so hunters need to take the time needed to locate the landowners.

Less than 25 percent of Utah's black bear hunts occur on private property. Hunts that do occur on private property are indicated by an asterisk in the 2007 Utah Black Bear Proclamation, which will be available by Feb. 1.

Utah's spring bear season runs April 7 - May 31. The state's fall hunt runs Aug. 25 - Sept. 30 and Nov. 1 - 25.

For more information, call Utah Wildlife Administrative Services at 1-800-221-0659, the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

View Bald Eagles Feb. 3 and Feb. 10 New bald eagle license plate will be unveiled

Two chances are available to view bald eagles in February. And those who attend the Bald Eagle Day event at the Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area will get an added treat: they can watch as Utah's newest license plate - featuring a bald eagle - is unveiled at a ceremony that begins at 10 a.m.

Bald Eagle Day

Utah's annual Bald Eagle Day will be held Feb. 3 at sites in central, northeastern and southwestern Utah. On the following Saturday, Feb. 10, viewing will be offered at two sites in northern Utah.

Admission to Bald Eagle Day is free. Viewing times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except at the Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area site, where viewing will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On Feb. 3, you can view eagles at the following locations:

Feb. 3

Fountain Green State Fish Hatchery, located east of Nephi. If coming from the north, take I-15 and exit the freeway at the second Nephi exit (Exit 225). After exiting the freeway, turn east on SR-132 and travel about 10 miles. About 1 mile before the city of Fountain Green, a Bald Eagle Day sign will point to an access road that leads to the hatchery. Once you reach the hatchery, you'll be given a driving map of the Sanpete Valley that highlights the best areas in the valley to view eagles. Literature, displays and bathroom facilities will also be available at the hatchery. If eagles are near the hatchery, Division of Wildlife Resources staff will set up spotting scopes so you can view them. Spotting scopes will also be set-up at a viewing location about one mile from the hatchery.

Split Mountain/Green River, located north of Jensen and below the Dinosaur Quarry in Dinosaur National Monument (DNM). To reach the site, drive north from Highway 40 in Jensen on the road (SR 149) to the Dinosaur Quarry. First stop should be at the staging area located just inside the DNM boundary where displays, spotting scopes and possibly bald eagles and other raptors await. From the staging area biologists will direct viewers to other sites where they may have better views of eagles and other wildlife of interest. In past years, visitors have seen bald and golden eagles hunting and feeding, as well as prairie falcons, hawks, mule deer, river otters, pheasants, turkeys, sandhill cranes, porcupines, mergansers, Canada geese and other wildlife. During your trip, you may also want to stop and visit the Dinosaur National Monument. The monument's dinosaur quarry is closed, but you can see a few dinosaur bones at a temporary visitor center near the quarry. The visitor center also includes a small bookstore.

Cedar Valley, located on the northwest side of Cedar City. To reach the site, exit I-15 at Exit 59 and travel west on SR-56 to 3900 W. Turn right on 3900 W. and travel north to 2800 N. The viewing site is located at 3900 W. and 2800 N.

On Feb. 10, viewing will take place at the following locations:

Feb. 10

Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area (Compton's Knoll), located about 10 miles northwest of Corinne. To reach the WMA, take Exit 365 off of I 15 and travel west on SR-83 through Corinne. Stay on SR-83 until you get to 6800 W. (Iowa String). Travel north to 6800 N. Travel west on 6800 N. until you reach the Salt Creek WMA/Compton's Knoll Watchable Wildlife site.

Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area, located on the west side of Farmington.

Traveling north on I-15:

To reach the WMA, exit the freeway at Exit 322. After exiting the freeway, stay right where the road splits, and then turn at the first right. This will put you on a frontage road, and you'll be traveling south. Then turn right at the stop sign, which is Glover Lane. Travel west to 1325 West, and then turn left into the WMA.

Traveling south on I-15:

To reach the WMA, exit the freeway at Exit 325. Go to the stoplight and turn right. Travel south to the next light, which is at Clark Lane, and turn right. Travel west to the first stop sign, which is at 1525 West, and turn left. Travel south for three miles to the next stop sign, which is Glover Lane, and turn left. Travel east for two blocks and take the first right at 1325 West. This is the north entrance to the WMA.

"Spotting scopes will available at each viewing site, and Division of Wildlife Resources biologists and volunteers will be on-hand to help you spot eagles and to answer any questions you might have," says Bob Walters, Watchable Wildlife coordinator for the DWR.

Displays will also be set up at each location, and pamphlets and other materials about bald eagles will be available for free, or for a small cost.

Seeing Eagles

The best time to view eagles on Feb. 3 and Feb. 10 depends on the individual, Walters says.

The most comfortable time is late morning and early afternoon, when the temperature is the warmest and the visibility is the best. The warmer temperatures are especially important if you're bringing young children.
You can expect to see eagles during the late morning and early afternoon but not as many as just before sundown, when eagles fly to trees to roost for the night. At most of the sites, the best time to see the greatest number of eagles is probably from 2 to 4 p.m., Walters says.

Walters says those who attend should dress warmly. If there's snow on the ground, make sure you wear waterproof boots too.

If you'd like to photograph the eagles, make sure and bring a telephoto lens. The eagles will be some distance from the viewing areas. Photographers who don't bring the proper equipment and try to get close to the eagles for a better shot will probably scare them away, Walters says.

Walters started Bald Eagle Day in 1990 as a way to introduce people to Utah's wildlife. "It was started as a way of arousing people's interest, whetting their appetite and making them aware of the wildlife around them," Walters says.

Since it began Bald Eagle Day has grown into Utah's most well attended, and one of its most enjoyed, wildlife-viewing events.

For more information about Bald Eagle Day, call Walters at (801) 538-4771 or Division of Wildlife Resources offices in Ogden, Springville, Vernal or Cedar City.

NWRA/NFWF to recognize Refuge System Standouts

Washington, D.C. - The National Wildlife Refuge Association and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation will honor National Wildlife Refuge System supporters and employees in March with the presentation of the 2007 National Wildlife Refuge System Awards.

The 2007 Refuge Manager, Employee, Volunteer, and Friends Group of the Year awards recognize exceptional contributions made by refuge employees and volunteers toward protecting the National Wildlife Refuge System, a network of more than 545 refuges conserving 100 million acres of land and water set aside to conserve America's wildlife.

Two awards will be presented at a ceremony in conjunction with the 72nd North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference, March 20 through 24 in Portland, OR. The conservation partners will present the following awards during the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director's Reception at 7 p.m., March 23 in the Hilton Portland's Grand Ballroom I.

· Paul Kroegel Refuge Manager of the Year Award, Don Hultman, Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, MN - With management responsibilities for eleven refuges along the 261 miles of the Upper Mississippi River, Refuge Manager Don Hultman is a passionate communicator and a talented leader. Over the past four years, he led a public involvement planning process, hosting 46 public meetings and workshops attended by 4,500 people that resulted in the completion of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge's Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) in August of 2006. The final plan emphasizes the conservation of natural resources and takes a proactive and balanced approach to public use management. Hultman has also been extensively involved in such programs as the Environmental Management Program, and he wrote the recently published Service Manual Policy Chapter on Refuge Mission, Goals and Purposes.

· Refuge System Employee of the Year, William Giese, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, MD - As Fire Control Officer, Bill Giese's extensive knowledge and technical expertise from his 34 years of service to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge have led to the protection of Little Blackwater River and the Refuge through the mobilization of more than 35,000 community members to sign a petition opposing mega-development in the region. Giese also works effectively as a biologist, law enforcement officer, equipment operator, and manager. Highly instrumental in developing partnerships with both Maryland Nutria and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Giese works to manage wetlands using prescribed fire, protect endangered squirrels and eagles, and eradicate nutria on the Refuge.

Two awards will also be presented at a ceremony in conjunction with the 2007 Refuge Friends "Beyond the Boundaries" workshop which runs March 2 through 5 in Washington, DC. The conservation partners will present these awards during the Awards Reception at 6:30 p.m., March 3 in the Washington Plaza Hotel's National Hall.

· Volunteer of the Year Award, Marion Sansing, Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, MS - As spokesperson for the Friends of Noxubee and outdoor recreation planner for the Refuge, Marion Sansing has astounded Refuge staff and fellow volunteers with the amount she has accomplished in her relatively short time at Noxubee. She partnered with Mississippi State University to develop a Native plant garden for the Visitor Center; procured print, radio, and even billboard advertisements to attract volunteers and visitors to the Refuge; oversaw all the publicity and implementation of the now annual Noxubee Refuge Photography contest; and partnered with the Wild Turkey Federation to host "Women in the Outdoors," an opportunity for women to learn outdoor skills from expert instructors.

· Friends Group of the Year Award, Friends of San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuges, CO - Friends of San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuges support Baca, Alamosa and Monte Vista NWRs. The Friends are responsible for the wildlife-observation walking trail on the Monte Vista NWR; the Alamosa NWR Visitor Center's new Wetland Learning Center; and a Congressional earmark of $324,000 for the Baca NWR. The Friends keep the community and visitors informed about the wildlife in the San Luis Valley through an imaginative website, quarterly newsletter the Avocet, and participation in monthly "work days" and annual festivals such as the Kid's Crane Festival held during Refuge Week.

To learn more about the National Wildlife Refuge System Awards and the incredible conservation work performed nationwide, visit www.refugenet.org and click on "Events." For more information about either awards ceremony, contact NWRA at (202) 333-9075 or via e-mail at nwra@refugenet.org.

About the Partners

A nonprofit established by Congress in 1984, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) sustains, restores and enhances the Nation's fish, wildlife, plants and habitats. Through leadership conservation investments with public and private partners, NFWF is dedicated to achieving maximum conservation impact by developing and applying best practices and innovative methods for measurable outcomes. Since its establishment, NFWF has awarded over 8,000 grants to nearly 3,000 organizations in the United States and abroad and leveraged - with its partners - more than $340 million in federal funds, for a total of over $1 billion in conservation. For more information, visit www.nfwf.org.

A nonprofit established in 1975, the National Wildlife Refuge Association is the only organization dedicated exclusively to protecting, enhancing and expanding the National Wildlife Refuge System, lands and waters set aside by the American people to protect our country's diverse wildlife heritage. With the support of more than 125 refuge Friends group affiliates, and individual members in all states, we have worked to make the Refuge System stronger and better able to address the growing challenges of conserving wildlife in our country. By combining policy, grassroots development and public education objectives, the Refuge Association seeks to ensure our country continues to support a diverse spectrum of plants and wildlife well into the future. For more information, visit http://www.refugenet.org .



SHOT Show Auction Tops $42,000 Proceeds to benefit home of National Hunting and Fishing Day

NEWTOWN, Conn. A gun and knife auction at the National Shooting Sport's Foundation's (NSSF) annual Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show raised $42,319 for Wonders of Wildlife, the Springfield, Mo.-based National Fish & Wildlife Museum and home of National Hunting and Fishing Day.

The auction featured five unique firearms donated by Smith & Wesson, featuring special engraving donated by Baron Technology, custom grips from Altamont Co. and leather cases from Brooks & Thomas. Custom knife maker Ross Tyser donated a one-of-a-kind gentleman's folding knife.

"Over the years, the SHOT Show's annual gun and knife auction has raised more than $500,000 for causes benefiting the future of hunting in America," said David Miles, NSSF director of promotions and advertising. "This year's auction was another great success, thanks to the generosity and remarkable craftsmanship of our donors."

The auction items were displayed for bidding at GunBroker.com and at the SHOT Show, held Jan. 11-14 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

Proceeds from the auction will be donated to Wonders of Wildlife, the National Fish & Wildlife Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Mo. The museum is the official home of National Hunting and Fishing Day.

National Hunting and Fishing Day, formalized by Congress in 1971, was created by NSSF to celebrate the conservation successes of hunters and anglers. From shopping center exhibits to statewide expos, millions of citizens learned to appreciate America's sportsman-based system of conservation funding. That system now generates more than $1.7 billion per year, benefiting all who appreciate wildlife and wild places.

The annual SHOT Show auction began in 1984.

BLM opens Public Comment Period

The Bureau of Land Managementb s (BLM) rice Field Office announces that the comment period for an Environmental Assessment (EA) of the Bill Barrett Corporation Prickly Pear Bench Seven Well / Two Pad Drilling Project will be open from January 23 through February 6. The EA will determine if a one time exception to the high country watershed stipulation will be given to allow development during the winter season.

This EA incorporates by reference the analysis contained in the Environmental Assessment for the West Tavaputs Plateau Drilling Program, completed in 2004, and is tiered to the previous planning decision to implement oil and gas development in the area, including on Prickly Pear Bench. All mitigation measures, such as stipulations to allow protection
of steep slopes, saturated soils, springs and floodplains of perennial streams would be applied to avoid impacts.

The proponent has requested the exception in order to develop two well pad locations to accommodate seven natural gas wells (two vertical and five directional) to be developed during the 2006-2007 winter season. The project is within the Prickly Pear Federal Unit, where oil and gas exploration and development has been occurring since the 1950's.

However, the 2004 Environmental Assessment did not contemplate development taking place during the winter season. Because of this, the current EA is much narrower in scope, focusing only on the effects related to the winter activities. Therefore, the issues addressed in this analysis are limited to the high country watershed and wildlife, particularly wintering big game species and greater sage-grouse.

The EA assists the BLM in making a determination as to whether any significant impacts could result from the analyzed actions. The EA is available at https://www.ut.blm.gov/enbb/index.php and comments may be sent to: Brad Higdon
Price Field Office
125 South 600 West
Price, Utah 84501