Crowd Watches 46 Wild Turkeys Settle into New Homes

Magna -- On Nov. 16, more than 200 local students and wild turkey enthusiasts watched 46 wild turkeys fly to new habitat in Coons Canyon on Kennecott property in the Oquirrh Mountains overlooking Salt Lake City.

The event was hosted by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR), Kennecott Copper Corporation (KUCC), Kennecott Land Corporation and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). The event helped demonstrate how wildlife agencies are continuing to work with conservation groups and corporate partners to restore wild turkey populations throughout North America and highlighted how well wildlife responds to management on mining lands.

Many of the students and other attendees actually participated in the educational Thanksgiving event by holding and releasing the wild turkeys.

In 1984, when the NWTF started its first chapter in Utah, there were less than 1,000 wild turkeys in the state. More than 20 years later, Utah has more than 18,000 wild turkeys.

"Utah has one of the fastest growing wild turkey populations in the country," said Dean Mitchell, upland game coordinator for the UDWR. "Wild turkeys are doing really well here."

Part of the reason for the fast growth is an aggressive effort to trap and transplant turkeys. From 1998 through 2005, the UDWR and its partners set a national record by placing more than 7,700 turkeys into new homes in Utah. Many of these birds were brought in from outside the state. The remainder already lived in the state, but they were moved to new locations to start new populations or supplement existing ones.

"Wild turkeys are a huge wildlife success story in Utah," Mitchell said. "Hundreds of people across the state are hearing and seeing these birds during their trips outdoors, and more and more hunters are applying for a permit to hunt them."

The release was a celebration of the contributions made by hunters across North America on behalf of wild turkey restoration and wildlife conservation. The NWTF and its partners have given wildlife agencies more than 139,000 wild turkey transport boxes to transport more than 188,000 birds.

This event is the second time in five years that KUCC has partnered with the UDWR and the NWTF to release wild turkeys. The first release was in a reclaimed mining area on private Kennecott property in Butterfield Canyon (southwest corner of the Salt Lake Valley).

"Kennecott Utah Copper has spent over $350 million in reclaiming historic mining wastes on our property," said Larry D. Bunkall, assistant director government and public affairs for KUCC. "Old mine sites have been restored as beautiful mountain slopes and settings where natural wildlife is thriving. Following reclamation in Butterfield Canyon, wild turkeys were released and flocks are commonly sighted by visitors as they drive the canyon road today. Kennecott Utah Copper is committed to managing and protecting wildlife on our property."

A long-standing example of hunters' contributions to wildlife management is the Pittman-Robertson Act. Passed by the U.S. Congress at the requests of hunters in 1937, this excise tax established a dedicated revenue stream to aid states in wildlife restoration. A study commissioned by the NWTF in 2003 found that 78 percent of turkey hunters considered conservation projects, such as protecting or enhancing wildlife habitat, to be very important.

"People get involved in hunting and other outdoor activities for a number of reasons, but it's almost certain that once a person spends time in the woods or on the water, they begin to care about their natural resources and will likely become dedicated conservationists," said Rob Keck, chief executive officer of the NWTF. "With the help of conservation-minded sportsmen, today there are more than 7 million wild turkeys throughout North America. That's why our hunting heritage is important, not only to hunters, but to all Americans."

Hunters also contribute millions of dollars to organizations like the NWTF that fund wildlife restoration and conservation projects throughout the country. These efforts not only benefit wildlife, but the sustainability of all natural resources.

According to data collected by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, sportsmen are among the most prominent and influential of all demographic groups. Sportsmen pour $70 billion annually into the economy and support more jobs nationwide than the number of people employed by Wal-Mart, the country's largest corporation.

Wild Turkey Hunting Applications Available by Nov. 28

Applications to hunt wild turkeys in Utah next spring will be available by Nov. 28. Hunters can obtain an application from hunting license agents statewide, Division of Wildlife Resources offices and the DWR's Web site ( http://www.wildlife.utah.gov ).

Hunters who have a major credit card can apply on the Web site. "I'd encourage hunters to apply this way," says Judi Tutorow, wildlife licensing coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources. "Applying on the Internet is the easiest and fastest way to get your application in."

Hunters who don't have a major credit card must mail their application in. "I'd like to remind hunters that it will take a few days for the application to arrive in the mail," Tutorow says. "I'd encourage them to obtain an application as soon as they're available, and to mail it back as soon as possible."

To be entered in the draw for permits, applications must be received through the mail no later than 5 p.m. on Dec. 26, or through the DWR's Web site no later than 11 p.m. on Dec. 26. Draw results will be posted by Jan. 31, 2007.

The number of permits available for each of Utah's wild turkey management units is found in the 2007 Utah Wild Turkey Hunting Guide. The guide is available at the DWR's Web site (wildlife.utah.gov/proclamations/) and DWR offices. Hunting license agents should also have copies of the guide by late November.

Utah's 2007 wild turkey hunts will be held in April and May.

For more information, call the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

Ski Utah Launches the Greatest Ski Blog on Earth

New blog to be written by local, professional freeskier

SALT LAKE CITY - In an effort to convey the ultimate experience of skiing Utah's Greatest Snow on Earth., Ski Utah has enlisted the expertise of local big mountain skier Kent Hyden to blog about his adventures this season. Hyden will ski all of Utah's resorts and highlight their various features, including the best spots to find powder, terrain parks, tree skiing, groomed runs, dining, aprhs-ski, back country access, the Ski Utah Interconnect Adventure Tour and much more. The blog will also showcase photos and video footage from his days on the slopes. Readers are encouraged to submit comments and questions. Stay updated on Utah skiing through the eyes of a local at http://skiutah.com/blog/

"While SkiUtah.com is a fantastic resource for visitors to research resorts and lodging, we believe that a local, diehard skier writing about his unique experiences will add personality and a new dimension to our Web site," explained Ski Utah President Nathan Rafferty. "Kent's enthusiasm for the sport and Utah's ski product will allow us to connect with visitors and locals beyond traditional means and will add an interactive component to the site."

Growing up ski racing in Minnesota, Hyden convinced his family to move to Colorado when he was 16 so he could attend Snowmass Ski Academy. While racing in Crested Butte for Western State College, Hyden was turned on to big mountain skiing. Craving more powder, he relocated to Utah five years ago. Since making the move, he has appeared on ESPN, OLN, RSN, Adrenaline TV and Park City Television and placed third at the U.S. Nationals at Snowbird. In addition to blogging, he will continue to compete this season in big mountain and skiercross events around the United States.

"I'm excited to blog for Ski Utah this winter," commented Hyden. "I hope that my great times on the snow will encourage people to ski and snowboard here and help them decide which Utah resort will best meet their needs. Locals who are stuck in their offices on powder days can also live vicariously though my blog since I am lucky enough to be out there skiing every day," he added.

REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR DECEMBER

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.

SNOWSHOEING 101

Thursday, November 30th, 7pm

The ease of snowshoeing has led it to become one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Simply strap on a pair and go on a winter hike, backpack, or climb. Join REI expert Craig Whetman, as he puts on another of our famous "how to" clinics on the basics of snowshoeing. This presentation will also focus on the appropriate selection of gear and the initial skills needed to get you outside and on the trails. If you have ever thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport! A special segment by Craig Gordon from the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center will also address and highlight winter backcountry safety.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: INTRO TO AVALANCHE AWARENESS

Thursday, December 7th, 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 & SNOWBOARD TUNE & WAX

Thursday, December 14th, 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 technicians this evening for some expert instruction on base preparation: structure, major and minor repair and stone grinding. By learning to tune your own skis and snowboards, you can ensure that your equipment will perform at its peak.

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, November 28th, 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.

WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING

Tuesday, December 5th, 7pm

Get ready for your winter outings! Join naturalist, educator, author and photographer Bruce Thompson for a magical evening to learn about wildlife in the winter, the tracks they make and how they have adapted to the cold. As someone who brings a deep sense of wonder and intimate knowledge of North American mammals, Bruce's slides and insight will leave you ready to get out in the winter!

DYNASTAR WOMEN'S SKI GEAR WORKSHOP

Thursday, December 7th, 7pm

Attention women powder hounds: you won't want to miss this free, two-part workshop! Dynastar athlete and equipment guru Jeannie Thoren will teach you how women- specific gear can help increase your performance. In the second part, you'll receive a personalized ski fitting from Jeannie. To receive a priority fitting, sign up at the first workshop. Limited slots available for those who choose to do only the fitting.

THE SCIENCE OF AVALANCHES

Tuesday, December 12th, 7pm

Bruce Tremper, Director of the Utah Avalanche Center will give a talk titled Science of Avalanches and will do a signing of his book, Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain. This is the next step beyond an avalanche awareness talk where Bruce will discuss precisely how avalanches work and the science behind them explained in simple, terms. He will use a number of his famous models involving cardboard boxes, Dixie cups, silly putty, rubber bands, and foam rubber. He will also show exciting films of avalanches in motion and slides & graphs.

COMMUNITY EVENTS:

REI COMMUNITY PARTNER CELEBRATION RECEPTION

The public is invited to attend this reception event as REI presents awards and grants to our non profit partners who labor to protect the environment, encourage safe responsible outdoor recreation, volunteerism, and support youth programs. This is a great opportunity to meet organization directors and hear about their stellar programs. Light refreshments will be served beginning at 6:30pm, official program begins at 7pm. This event is free and open to all.

Wednesday, December 6th, 7:00pm in REI Sandy

WASATCH CITIZEN SERIES AT SOLDIER HOLLOW

Saturday, December 9th

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 www.utahnordic.com for more information.

BEND IN THE RIVER WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

Wednesday, December 20th, 5:30-7:30pm

It's the celebration of the shortest day of the year and a time to beckon the sun to return to us. Come help us celebrate in style with hot drinks, a warm fire, plenty of activities for all ages, and a whole host of fun characters who will help us in solving the mystery of Who Stole the Sun? It all takes place at the Bend-in-the-River, a two-acre neighborhood natural area along the Jordan River. Bend in the River is located at 1030 W. Fremont Ave. (1100S). This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required. For more information, please call Tara Poelzing at 587-9027 or visit http://www.bend-in-the-river.org .

Mountain Whitefish Provide Great Late Fall Fishing

It might be cold, but the fishing season isn't over yet. In fact, for native mountain whitefish, now is when the fishing really heats up!

Mountain whitefish are a species of fish that offer great late fall fishing in Utah. If lying on the sofa for hours to recover from Thanksgiving dinner is not your style, then consider going fishing for an hour or two on Thanksgiving Day (after, of course, the dishes are cleaned and put away)!

Mountain Whitefish

Mountain whitefish are a member of the salmon and trout family that's native to the western United States and western Canada. They prefer cold mountain lakes and streams with highly oxygenated water. Whitefish are common in this habitat in many areas across the state.

Mountain whitefish eat insect larvae, insects, fish eggs and small fish. You can readily catch them using imitations of any of these.

Interestingly, mountain whitefish feed most actively during the winter and at night. They spawn from late fall to early winter, usually in stream riffles that have gravel substrate. They're also one of five species of sport fish found in Utah's streams that are native to the state.

(For more information about mountain whitefish, please visit http://dwrcdc.nr.utah.gov/ucdc on the Web).

Where You'll Find Them

Whitefish are an underutilized sport fish in Utah. In the past, many anglers have wrongly accused them of being "trash" fish. Whitefish are far from that. Anyone who has pursued these fish knows they're fun to catch and make delicious meals. And the bag limits for whitefish are still liberal (on most waters, you can catch 10 whitefish. Please see the 2006 Utah Fishing Proclamation at http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/proclamations to learn the whitefish limit for the water you'd like to fish).

Mountain whitefish are found in many waters across Utah. For example, in northern Utah you'll find mountain whitefish in the following streams:

1) Weber River. In the past 10 years, the Division of Wildlife Resources has taken some important steps to secure angler access on the Weber River. Many of these access areas offer great fishing for whitefish.

2) Blacksmith Fork River. Fish population surveys in this Blue Ribbon fishery show the stream has a healthy population of whitefish.

3) Blacks Fork - Uintas. Fishing this drainage on the North Slope of the Uintas gives anglers a real sense of solitude. Weather conditions on the North Slope can change quickly, however; use caution when fishing this area late in the fall.

The Provo River in north-central Utah is also an excellent place to fish for mountain whitefish.

For more information about fishing for mountain whitefish across the state, contact any DWR office or fishing tackle shop in Utah.

FISHING REPORT FOR SOUTHEASTERN UTAH

GENERAL Mountain reservoirs show patches of ice and open water, depending on day and nighttime temperatures. Ice fishing is not recommended. Please wait for a cold snap before venturing out on the ice.

ABAJO MOUNTAINS San Juan County reservoirs remain open during the day. Fishing pressure is minimal.

BENCHES RESERVOIR The reservoir has a thin ice cover. Please wait for safer conditions.

BOULGER RESERVOIR (Same as Benches Reservoir.)

DUCK FORK RESERVOIR The reservoir has iced over. Ice fishing is not recommended.

ELECTRIC LAKE The lake is still open, but boat launching is difficult due to snow.

FERRON RESERVOIR (Same as Duck Fork Reservoir.)

HUNTINGTON CREEK Tom Ogden's recommendation is a #10 beadhead Montana.

HUNTINGTON NORTH STATE PARK Aquatics personnel conducted a creel survey on Saturday. A few anglers fished the southwest side of the lake and caught rainbow trout on PowerBait. Conservation Officer Casey Mickelsen reports slow fishing. The water level is extremely low. Very little fishing pressure.

HUNTINGTON RESERVOIR (also known as MAMMOTH RESERVOIR at the top of Fairview Canyon) Last Saturday, creel survey technicians observed up to 2-inches of ice in some places with spots of open water. One bait fisherman caught two 12-inch tiger trout with orange PowerBait. Todd Munford of King's Outdoor World recommends a nightcrawler behind a full bubble for best results. Closed to the possession of cutthroat trout.

JOES VALLEY RESERVOIR The reservoir was closed to fishing on November 1st to protect spawning splake. The reservoir will reopen on December 9th.

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

LASAL MOUNTAINS All mountain reservoirs are frozen. Fishing at Ken's Lake has been slow.

MILLSITE RESERVOIR Conservation Officer Casey Mickelsen indicates that fishing continues to be good with PowerBait.

SCOFIELD RESERVOIR Todd Munford of King's Outdoor World describes fishing as very good on the east side. He says orange PowerBait on a 3-foot leader behind a full bubble is the ticket. Todd and his party caught their limits by anchoring in 15-20 feet of water off the rocks on the east side. They used nightcrawlers tipped with chartreuse garlic marshmallows, or orange PowerBait tipped with a Berkley Power Egg. Todd says the key is to get the bait off the bottom. Hits are very light. Rainbow trout ranged from 12-18 inches. Fishing pressure has been very light. The boat ramp is open but can be slippery. Docks have been removed, so loading and unloading can be difficult.

Lake Powell Fish Report
By: Wayne Gustaveson November 16, 2006
Lake Elevation: 3607 Water Temperature: 58-60 F

Subtle changes have taken place as water temperature has dropped to the high 50's. Shad have been displaced from the shallowest summer hiding places making them more available to hungry bass and stripers. Wind and cooler temperatures have sent shad seeking temperature stability.

Threadfin have not been forced into the deepest winter holding depths but rather they have pulled out of the shallowest weeds and brush into water 10-15 feet deep. Threadfin shad presence has alerted striped bass and feeding opportunities in the backs of canyons have greatly increased. A few quick boils have been seen lakewide but more often the feeding is subsurface where shallow running crankbaits or lipless vibrators retrieved in the upper 10 feet of water provide the most action.

Clear water is prevalent in the main channel. Avoid that, as shad feel more secure in murky water. Start fishing in the backs of canyons with cloudy water. Canyons with flooded willows and tamarisk are better than slick rock canyons without cover. Move quickly making many long casts to locate a school or troll until a school is found and then cast to the school for a quick catch of fish.

Competition for smaller threadfin shad continues with young healthy striped bass out-maneuvering slower, adult stripers for each meal. I have seen resurgence in health of some of the larger stripers that are still quick enough to catch shad. These quick fish are regaining body mass while slower adult stripers are continuing the slide into poor health and eventual death. There will be a population downsizing this winter as unhealthy adults make way for the upcoming generation.

When stripers are not cruising the shallows looking for threadfin they are holding in deep water amid schools of gizzard shad. Perhaps the most effective fishing technique is spooning with slab spoons among these holding bait schools. Find a school on the graph in the 40-70 foot depth range and vertically jig at the same depth as the school. Periodically reel the spoon as fast as possible to the surface to ignite striper chasing tendencies and to start the school feeding. Once started, catching will be continuous as long as stripers are under the boat and can see the spoon.

Bass fishing is still good during stable weather. Bass hit rattletraps and suspending jerk baits in the murky water at the backs of canyons near shad. Throw lots of casts and move often to find them. After a storm front bass go deep and can be caught on heavy jigs with pork trailers at 25-40 feet along main channel points.

Walleye and catfish are taken incidentally while spooning and casting for other species.

Find a Place to Hunt Using Interactive TV Technology

NEWTOWN, Conn.?Using interactive TV technology and a remote control, hunters can now find great places to hunt without leaving the sofa.

Through Dec. 23, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and The Media Group are delivering a half-hour show, Wingshooting USA, to more than 12 million viewers of Dish Network satellite television. During the show, now airing on the Men's Outdoor & Recreation Channel, viewers can use their remote control to locate bird-hunting preserves close to home or across the country, as well as enter to win a Polaris ATV and other prizes.

This new advertising and programming initiative was created and produced by The Media Group. Features include:

Using their remote control, viewers can select a "trigger," or on-screen prompt, that takes them to an informative three-quarter-screen ad promoting the convenience, access and quality experiences offered by today's bird hunting preserves. While in this Web-like environment, the Wingshooting USA show continues uninterrupted in a one-quarter screen.

During scheduled broadcasts of Wingshooting USA, viewers can use the trigger to search a national database of bird-hunting preserves, searching with up to nine-digit zip code precision, to find great hunting access close to home or across the country. The database is from Black's Wing and Clay, Waterfowl.

During 30-second TV commercials aired across several national network channels, viewers can use the trigger to "telescope" to the Wingshooting USA program in progress on the Men's Outdoors & Recreation channel.

Viewers can use their remote control to instantly enter NSSF's Hunt-and-Shoot Sweepstakes for a chance to win a Polaris ATV, a bird-hunt for two at Flint Oak Ranch in Kansas, or tickets to a NASCAR race. No filling out electronic forms, as required on the sweepstakes Web site. Since Dish network already knows its subscribers' contact information, entering the sweepstakes involves only a click.

"This is definitely a new way for us to reach out with Wingshooting USA's promise to solve the No. 1 issue facing hunters today's limited hunting access," said Dave Miles, director of advertising and promotions for NSSF. "All the tools needed to find a great daily-fee hunting spot are at your fingertips, whether you're visiting Wingshooting USA online or on TV."

The Web address is http://www.wingshootingusa.org .

"NSSF is taking advantage of compelling technologies like on-screen triggers, i-ads, set-top box audience analysis and RFIs, or Requests For Information," said Gary Turner, CEO and chairman of The Media Group.

Wingshooting USA also is airing on regular TV on The Outdoor Channel.

Check local listings for show times on both networks.

Wingshooting USA is a partnership between NSSF, Black's Wing and Clay, Waterfowl, and the North American Gamebird Association.

Grants Available for Sportfish Habitat Restoration

FishAmerica Foundation expects to award up to $800,000 in 2007

November 20, 2006 - Alexandria, VA - The FishAmerica Foundation has up to $800,000 in grant monies available for marine and anadromous sportfish habitat restoration projects across the coastal United States and the Great Lakes basin. These grants will be awarded to community-based, on-the-ground projects to restore marine, estuarine and riparian habitats, including salt marshes, seagrass beds, mangrove forests and freshwater habitats important to anadromous fish species such as salmon and striped bass that spawn in freshwater and migrate to the sea.

The FishAmerica Foundation will accept grant proposals through February 5, 2007. Grants of up to $50,000 each will be awarded in June of 2007. Eligible applicants include community-based nonprofit organizations, such as local sporting clubs and conservation associations, as well as state and local agencies. Applicants are encouraged to partner with NOAA staff in order to strengthen the development and implementation of sound restoration projects. The announcement and full grant package are available at http://www.fishamerica.org .

Since 1998, the FishAmerica and the NOAA Restoration Center have awarded more than $4.3 million in grants in 25 states, leveraged with an additional $5 million in funds matched by local communities for a total of $9.3 million in restored fisheries habitat that is critical for marine and anadromous sportfish.

Projects previously funded through the partnership include:

- A $30,000 grant to the Willapa Bay Regional Fisheries Enhancement Group in Washington to restore fish passage to more than four miles of stream and enhance spawning and rearing habitat in the south branch of Middle Stream of the Willapa Bay watershed.

- A $50,000 grant to the Galveston Bay Foundation in Texas to restore 100 acres of seagrass beds and protect an additional 200 acres of eroding salt marsh fisheries habitat in Snake Island Cove located in Galveston Bay.

- A $36,000 grant to the Lynnhaven River 2007 project in Virginia to restore oyster reef fish habitat and improve water quality at the mouth of the Lynnhaven River in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

- A $15,000 grant to American Rivers in Pennsylvania to restore fish passage to five miles of stream and enhance fish habitat along Wyomissing Creek in the Schuylkill River watershed.

- A $7,866 grant to the White River Partnership in Vermont to restore valuable spawning and rearing habitat along the White River in the Connecticut River watershed through riparian restoration, streambank stabilization and instream habitat installation.

The FishAmerica Foundation is the conservation and research foundation of the American Sportfishing Association. FishAmerica unites the sportfishing industry with conservation groups, government agencies, fishing tournaments, corporations and charitable foundations, investing in fisheries conservation and research across the country. FishAmerica provides matching grants that empower citizen conservationists in their own communities. Since 1983, FishAmerica has provided more than $9 million for more than 900 fisheries conservation and research projects nationwide. Visit http://www.fishamerica.org for more information.

Utah Ski Resorts now open

Many Utah Resorts are now open for skiing and riding. Plentiful early snowfall has been complimented by state of the art snow making equipment allowing many of Utah's resorts to open this week. Brighton was the first to open on Wedenesday with three lifts transporting eager skiers and boarders to the Greatest Snow on Earth.

Currently, Alta, Brighton, The Canyons, Park City Mountain Resort, Snowbird, and Solitude are open for skiing and riding and even more resorts are coming online next week. The lifts are running and more snow is on the way, ski season is officially here so get out there and take some runs. Keep track of resort openings with the Ski Utah Snow Report and don't forget to check out the Hot Deals page for great deals on early season skiing in Utah. See you on the slopes!

Governor of Baja California the first to Fish with MacDaddy's Million Dollar Lure

Only 2 Diamonds Lost During 4 Days of the Tournament

ARROYO GRANDE, Calif. -- MacDaddy's Fishing Lures, Inc., the premiere manufacturer of fishing lures made from solid gold and precious stones, announced that its Million-Dollar Lure^TMwas used extensively during the Bisbee's Black and Blue Marlin Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Only 2 diamonds from the world's first and only million-dollar fishing lure were lost, out of 4,753 diamonds and rubies, during the tournament, said Teri Conrad, president and co-founder of MacDaddy's^TM, headquartered here.

The constitutional governor of Baja California Sur, Narciso Agúndez Montaño, was the first to use the Million-Dollar Lurein pursuit of marlin. Coincidentally, the day Mr. Montaño used the lure aboard the motor yacht Pisces was his birthday.

Televisa, the Mexican television network, provided extensive coverage of the Million-Dollar Lure throughout the 26^th Annual tournament, both on the various boats and around the city of Cabo San Lucas. Mac McBurney, co-founder of MacDaddy's, said he did several live interviews with Televisa correspondents for satellite uplinks.

ESPN , the Outdoor Channel, and Rocky Mountain Television taped segments featuring MacDaddy's and the Million-Dollar Lure during the Oct. 24-28 tourney, which had a purse of $4.1 million. The company and its lure will also be featured on ESPN's Wanna Go Fishin' show, produced by Fischer Productions.

The Daily News of Los Cabos, the English-language newspaper in the area, provided extensive coverage. Mike Larson, a San Luis Obispo-based photographer who travels to exotic more locations around the world, was on hand to record MacDaddy's presence at the tourney.

Glenn Staack, a videographer and still photographer who supplies many television outlets and has produced National Geographic programs, took extensive footage of the lure and the MacDaddy's principals. He expected that his PRESENT FOCUS production company will place MacDaddy's segments on several television broadcasts.

The Bisbee's Tournament began when several well-to-do fishermen decided that each would put up a sizable stake, with the prize pool going to the most total fish caught and the largest fish. The format has not changed much in more than a quarter-century. The winning boat this year, with 2 large fish, won $3.9 million of the $4.166 million total purse.

Mr. McBurney said that the Million-Dollar LureÔ was rigged for fishing by Ken Matney of Hi-5 Lures, using 800-pound test steel woven leader, and 500-pound test monofilament line. The lure was also insured by Lloyd's of London.

"We were confident in Ken's rigging," Mr. McBurney said, "but we wanted Lloyd's on board, because anything can happen with fish which can literally weigh a ton.

"They told us we have the only tacklebox they've ever insured."

The Hi-5 lure was the basic design concept used by Mr. McBurney when he designed the Million-Dollar Lure. The lure, more than 12 inches in length and consisting of more than 3 pounds of 14 and 18-Karat gold and platinum, and with 4,753 diamonds and rubies, will be featured at the annual trunk sale at the All That Glitters jewelry store in San Luis Obispo on December 2.

MacDaddy's^TM presence at the Bisbee's tournament was sponsored by the Ultimate Smart Link^TMLure System, Maui JimÒ Sunglasses, and Quick Rig Corporation's Double Trouble hooks. The SmartLink^TM system features instant snag release, which prevents lures from being lost, and provides time-saving hook changes. The patented Double Trouble hooks function as a 'stiff rig hook set' without the crimps, wraps and tubing found in other sets.

MacDaddy's Fishing Lures, Inc.^TMhas been designingand selling lures and flies made from solid gold and precious stones since the company's founding in 2004. Designed for actual use as well as for commemoratives, presentations, and to be worn as jewelry, the MacDaddy's^TM line of lures and flies is available at sporting goods and fine jewelry stores and giftshops worldwide. For further information, interview scheduling, or special requests for digital stills or video from the tournament (available after November 1st): contact Teri Conrad, president and co-founder, at MacDaddy's Fishing Lures, Inc.^TM, 131 Bridge Street, Suite A, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420. Call 805.441-2012 or 805.473.9282. Fax: 805.473.0572. http://www.MacDaddysfishinglures.com

BLM Welcomes New Law Enforcement Ranger for Tooele, Utah, Box Elder, and Rich Counties

Salt Lake City, Utahb November 17, 2006b The Salt Lake Field Office (SLFO) inducted Tamsen Johnson as a new law enforcement ranger for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) today. Tamsen will work in partnership with
state and local law enforcement agencies to protect the valuable resources found on over three million acres of public land in northern Utah.
The ceremony was conducted by BLM's new state director, Selma Sierra.

Law enforcement carries with it the great responsibility to manage these lands for both current and future generations, "

Sierra said. "We are fortunate to have a group of public employees who are passionate about public stewardship responsibilities." Johnson recently completed the 18-week federal law enforcement training in Glencoe, Ga. She began working for BLM as a student in 2004.

"I grew up camping and fishing and my father also worked in law enforcement, so working for the BLM lets me combine my love for the outdoors with my love for law enforcement.b Johnson said. "I knew this is where I wanted to be."
As a ranger in the Salt Lake Field Office, Johnson will work on a variety of issues including off-highway vehicle regulation, protecting cultural resources and patrolling heavily visited areas.

"We are enthusiastic about her transition from a student assignment to becoming a full-time ranger," said Glenn Carpenter, Salt Lake Field Office manager. "Her ability to get along with others and her approach to law enforcement will make her an outstanding new ranger."

Johnson is a graduate of Weber State University. She holds both a bachelor' s of science and a master's of science degree in criminal justice. BLM law enforcement personnel perform a wide variety of tasks, including:
--protecting cultural and historical sites, such as petroglyphs, from vandalism
--locating and eradicating drug-manufacturing laboratories and marijuana fields;
--ensuring the humane treatment of wild horses and burros;
--guarding against the dumping of hazardous wastes and other pollutants;
--preventing theft and damage of timber, rare cactus plants, minerals and other publicly owned resources.

Turkey Hunting in Utah
* Almost 20,000 wild turkeys*15,000 to 16,000 Rio Grande turkeys and 3,000 to 3,500 Merriam's turkeys live in Utah.

* From 1998 * 2005, more than 7,700 wild turkeys were moved to new homes in Utah. A total of 3,024 turkeys were brought in from outside the state. The rest*4,754 turkeys*were moved from one area of Utah to another to start new populations or supplement existing ones.

* In 1999, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and its partners set a national turkey-transplant record. In a single year they moved a total of 1,741 turkeys*893 from outside Utah and 848 from within the state*to new homes in Utah.

* Merriam's turkeys are a Western mountain species that prefer ponderosa pine habitat. Rio Grande turkeys, on the other hand, prefer river bottom habitats filled with cottonwood trees.

* The UDWR still has 73 sites it wants to release Rio Grande turkeys in and four sites it would like to release Merriam's turkeys in.

* UDWR biologists believe Utah has enough habitat to support a total population of 25,000 to 30,000 turkeys.

* Turkey bones, turkey feather blankets and other prehistoric evidence show turkeys were in Utah as far back as the Anasazi and Fremont Indian civilizations. Turkeys were extirpated (exterminated) from the state before the settlers arrived, however.

* North America is home to five subspecies of wild turkeys. In addition to the Merriam's and Rio Grande subspecies, the Eastern; Florida or Osceola; and Gould's wild turkeys also live in North America.

Bringing Turkeys Back to Utah

* The first efforts to reintroduce turkeys to Utah occurred in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s when farm-raised birds of the Eastern subspecies were released. These efforts failed.

* The next efforts occurred in the 1950s when the Utah Department of Fish and Game reintroduced Merriam's turkeys from Arizona and Colorado to Utah. These efforts were successful.

* Rio Grande turkeys were introduced to Utah in 1984.

* After working with Rio Grande turkeys for a few years, UDWR biologists began to realize how well they could do in Utah. As a result, the agency's wild turkey program started to take off in 1989.

* 1963 was the first year turkeys could be hunted in Utah. Hunts were held in the fall. Hunters could take either a male or a female bird.

* In 1985, the state eliminated its fall season and went to a spring-only hunt. Only male turkeys could be taken.

* Because of increasing interest and potential impacts to turkey populations, in 1994 the UDWR began limiting the number of hunting permits that were offered. A total of 440 permits were offered for hunts that spring.

* As the state's turkey populations have grown, so has the number of permits. More than 2,600 permits were offered for hunts in spring 2006. More than 13,000 hunters applied.

* To get more young people interested in turkey hunting and wildlife conservation, 15 percent of Utah's public turkey permits are made available to hunters 18 years of age and younger.

* To encourage private landowners to manage their land for wild turkeys, 20 percent of Utah's public turkey permits are made available to private landowners.

* Utah's turkey hunters enjoy a 60 percent success rate. That's one of the highest success rates in the nation.

* More than 3,100 turkey permits will be available for hunts in Utah in spring 2007. Hunters can apply for a permit from Nov. 28 to Dec. 26, 2006.

BLM Quarterly Oil and Gas Lease Sale nets $15 million

BLM Utahb s quarterly oil and gas lease sale netted $15 million dollars today. The agency offered 255 parcels encompassing 334,400 acres and sold 186 parcels encompassing 215,100 acres at a competitive auction (65
percent). Lands not leased will be available non-competitively for the next two years.

Seventy bidders registered for the auction. The most spirited bidding was seen in lands under the jurisdiction by the BLM Vernal and Price Field Offices. A parcel in Duschene County commanded the high bid at just over a million dollars ($1,050 an acre for a 1,000 acre parcel, by Lonetree Energy and Associates of Denver). The average bid at the sale
was $70 an acre. Notably, bidding on parcels in southeastern Utah were also higher than in previous sales.

BLM Deputy State Director of Lands and Minerals Kent Hoffman said that today's lease sale is in-step with a trend of increased oil and gas leasing and development in the state. "Market demand is driving interest in developing additional oil and gas reserves in Utah. While production from existing wells is on the decline, leasing and exploration is
essential to maintain production levels," he said.

Currently, Utah is a net exporter of natural gas; however, the state must rely on some outside resources to meet crude oil demands. Leasing of public lands enables the exploration and discovery of new reserves. Once the rights to the mineral resources are secured, companies will do exploratory studies to determine if oil and gas development is viable. If development occurs, BLM reviews all proposals to ensure that impacts to other resources are mitigated if possible and all environmental laws are followed.

The revenues from this lease sale exceeded all other lease sales in 2005 and 2006 except for the May 2006 Sale which netted $54 million dollars. Lease sales over the last two years have ranged from $3 million to $13.5 million.

BLM Utah conducts quarterly oil and gas lease sales in accordance with the Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act (1987) and the Mineral Leasing Act. Lease parcels are made up of lands that have been determined to be open for leasing through BLMb s land use planning process, and are either nominated or requested by the public. Half of
the royalties from mineral development and leasing goes back to the States.

The BLM, an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior, manages more land b 261 million surface acres b than any other Federal agency. Most of this public land is located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The Bureau, with a budget of about $1.8 billion, also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation.

CAMP FLOYD STATE PARK HOSTS CIVIL WAR ORNAMENT WORKSHOP

FAIRFIELD - In celebration of the holiday season and in remembering times past, Camp Floyd State Park will be hosting a workshop to create Civil War wooden ornaments. This hands-on program will be held December 9, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. The workshop includes a Civil War Paint-by-Number Wooden Ornament Kit which contains: 4 ornaments, 4 cords, 1 paint brush, 8 vials of paint, an instruction sheet and a fun Civil War fact sheet. Each ornament features an imprint of a Civil War character or scene. This workshop will be limited to 20 kits. Kits may be shared with family or group members; participants under the age of 8 will need to be accompanied by an adult. Registration and a $14.00 fee are required for the workshop.

Established in 1858, Camp Floyd housed the largest concentration of U.S. troops then in the United State. The troops were sent to Utah to suppress a rumored Mormon rebellion which never took place. The army was recalled back east in 1861 for the Civil War emergency.

Camp Floyd State Park is located in the town of Fairfield, 22 miles southwest of Lehi on State Highway 73. For more information, please contact the park at: 801-768-8932.

REI Presents $45,00 in Grants

WHAT: Reception Event to Celebrate Partnerships in Outdoor Volunteerism and Stewardship

WHEN: Wednesday, December 6^th, 2006, 6:30 P.M

WHERE: REI Sandy at 10600 S 230 W in the Northwest Corner of the South Towne Mall Property.

MORE: The public is invited to attend this reception event as REI presents awards and grants to our non profit partners who labor to promote volunteerism, encourage responsible outdoor recreation, support youth programs, and protect places of natural beauty. This is a great opportunity to meet organization directors and hear about their stellar programs. Light refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to all. REI will present $5,000 grants to five non- profit organizations, award $20,000 in support of community park areas such as the Jordan River and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, and present the Wasatch Outdoor Volunteer Award to five outstanding members of the community.

REI Grants: REI dedicates a portion of its operating budget to help protect and restore the environment, increase access to outdoor activities, and encourage involvement in muscle powered recreation. REI is proud to announce grants to the following organizations in the amount of $5000 each.

The Utah Nordic Alliance: TUNA is a regional cross country ski club serving the needs of the community in many ways. TUNA provides accessible and affordable groom ski trails while organizing junior and adult ski programs. The Salt Lake Junior Program was created in 1998 and currently includes approximately 170 participants ages 5 to 18. The Junior Program maintains a small pool of equipment which is offered to program participants as a season 'rental' for a nominal fee. Demand for the equipment far exceeds supply. REI's grant will provide TUNA with additional ski packages and related equipment (waxes, tools, etc.). Revenue from the 'rentals' will be used to offset costs for professional instructors and other program expenses, and help to maintain participation fees at an affordable level.

Utah Society for Environmental Education: Project Learning Tree (PLT) is a program for K-12th grade that uses the forest as a 'window on the world' to increase youths' understanding of our complex environment, stimulate critical and creative thinking, develop the ability to make informed decisions on environmental issues, and instill the confidence and commitment to take responsible action. The USEE is the Utah state coordinator for PLT, providing workshops for teachers, developing a network of workshop facilitators and providing support to educators who wish to incorporate PLT into their curriculum. REI grant funds would pay for two PLT 'Activity trunks,' field trip expenses, classroom assistance for teachers and Advance Teacher Workshops.

Parleys Rails Trails And Tunnels Coalition: Parley's Creek Trail is a proposed multi-purpose pedestrian and bicycle trail connecting the existing Bonneville Shoreline Trail with the Jordan River Parkway. The Trail is part of a regional system. Safe travel for local and regional use is paramount. The role of signage plays an important role. Parley's Rails Trails and Tunnels Coalition (PRATT) proposes to use REI grant funds to install three types of signs. They will be Safety, Wayfinding and Interpretive/Informational. PRATT is requesting $5,000 to help purchase the necessary signage for the proposed trail.

Girl Scouts of Utah: In August 2006, Girl Scouts of Utah will offer a GPS-Leave No Trace program for girls ages 11-17. GSU is partnering with the REI store in Sandy, Utah, to offer this program. Patty Gierloff and associates from the REI store will give a presentation on Leave No Trace and provide instruction on how to use GPS devices, topographical maps, and compasses when hiking. Moreover, the Camp Director at Trefoil Ranch is offering workshops on GPS basics for girls attending camp during the eight weeks of resident summer camp. Ultimately, these programs aim to teach girls that technology is not intimidating; to have confidence in the role they play in protecting and preserving the environment; and opportunities to explore careers in earth science, cartography, civil engineering and electronics. REI grant funds will pay for GPS devices, maps, Leave No Trace kits and Geocaching supplies.

The Mountain Trails Foundation: The Mountain Trails Foundation has secured funding to pave additional sections of the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail. In order to provide direction to the increased number of riders who are expected to use the improved trail, the Mountain Trails Foundation will use funds from REI's grant to design and construct five kiosks to be placed at trail entrances. The kiosks will include maps and emergency information along with other useful facts about the trail.

Community Parks Grants: On the heels of our most successful year ever, REI is sharing our success with our communities by dedicating $1 million to 100 community parks across the country, above and beyond the $3 million previously earmarked this year for outdoor recreation and conservation causes. A total of 100 parks grants across the country, each in the amount of $10,000, have been given from REI to non-profit organizations dedicated to preservation, maintenance and enhancement projects of community parks throughout the U.S. Grant recipients were selected after REI employees identified community parks that were of particular interest to their customers, offered outdoor recreation opportunities, and were in close proximity to an REI store. Once specific parks were selected, REI worked with park officials to identify a non-profit group that provides volunteer care for each park. In collaboration with the local parks, these non-profit groups will dedicate the funds to projects that maintain and preserve each community park. In Salt Lake, REI has awarded $10,000 each in support of the Jordan River Parkway Foundation and Bonneville Shoreline Committee

2006 Wasatch Outdoor Volunteer Award: On behalf of the Utah Rivers Council, the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, the Friends of the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center, and the Great Salt Lakekeeper, REI will present of gift of apparel recognizing outstanding individuals who have made a significant volunteer commitment in support of the outdoor community.

About REI: REI is an outdoor retail co-op dedicated to inspiring, educating and outfitting its more than 2 million active members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventures. Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality equipment, REI operates retail stores nationwide, two online stores - REI.com and REI-OUTLET.com - and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures. REI offers products from all of the top brands for camping, climbing, cycling, hiking, outdoor fitness, paddling, snow sports and travel, including its own line of award-winning gear and apparel. While anyone may join or shop at REI, members pay a one-time $15 fee and receive a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund based on their purchases. As an active supporter of the communities in which it does business, REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through education, volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions. A portion of REI's profit is set aside each year for support of conservation, outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship causes, with $1.8 million to be awarded this year and more than $9 million since 1976 awarded to such efforts around the country.