Special Project Scheduled for Public Lands Day

Date: September 30, 2006

Location: Tibble Fork Reservoir, American Fork Canyon

Contact: Dave Palazzolo, Uinta National Forest, 801-342-5109

Steve Jackson, Utah 4-Wheel Drive Association, 801-376-3332

The Uinta National Forest, Utah 4-Wheel Drive Association, Utah Division of State Parks and Recreation, and Tread Lightly will join (number) volunteers on Public Lands Day to build fences, close illegal trails, and perform a canyon-wide litter clean up. The projects will begin on Saturday, September 30 at 8:00 a.m. and conclude at 3:00 p.m. Volunteers will meet at Tibble Fork Reservoir in American Fork Canyon and then disperse in groups to work on projects.

The effort is significant because of the successful partnership between the Forest Service, motorized-use groups, and Tread Lightly. These partners have joined together to address a significant threat to the national forests. The number of off-highway vehicle users has steadily increased year after year (seven-fold in less than 30 years - from 5 million in 1972 to 35.9 million in 2000). Unrestrained use of off-highway vehicle use within national forests leads to soil erosion, spread of invasive species, damage to cultural sites, disturbance to wildlife, and destruction of wildlife habitat.

The dedicated efforts of the Utah 4-Wheel Drive Association, and other groups, have contributed to restoration and maintenance of several trails and resource-protecting fences in American Fork Canyon and other areas. Their goal is to maintain access to public lands by working with land managers to protect our fragile resources while educating OHV users and the general public.

Utah Division of State Parks and Recreation and Tread Lightly will be present to assist Utah 4-Wheel Drive Association and Forest Service personnel in educating OHV users visiting this popular front-country area.

BLM Showcasing Sulphur Wild Horses at Adoption

Cedar City, Utah - On September 23, 2006, at 10:00 a.m., BLM is offering 80 wild horses from the Sulphur herd for adoption at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Hurricane, Utah. This event will also highlight horse training clinics by Mario Johnson, 4 gentled Sulphur horses, the opportunity to talk with Sulphur horse owner, Montgomery Warman, and in addition, the availability of 12 adoptable burros.

BLM's Wild Horse Specialist, Chad Hunter said, "I've talked with people from all around the nation and outside the U.S. who are inquiring about horses of Spanish descent. This is an opportunity for the people from southern Utah to see and adopt these remnants of the Spanish Barb - horses from the Sulphur herd."

According to Hunter the Sulphur horses are believed to have originated from stock brought across the Old Spanish Trail that went through southwestern Utah in the 1600-1700's.

Hunter said the Sulphur Herd exhibits the Spanish characteristics including a high proportion of dun and grulla colors with
"tiger-striped" legs, line back cross-over withers, and black rimmed ears. Body sizes tend to be smaller and trim when compared to other wild horses. Sulphur wild horses are approximately 14 hands in size with mares estimated to weigh 750 to 800 pounds, and stallions, 800-900 pounds.

"Our main concern is to find good homes for all the horses," said Hunter. "Some animals may adopt for more than the base price of $125.00, but many are expected to be adopted at or near the base fee," Hunter said.

On Friday, September 22, the public is encouraged to stop by the arena and look at the horses from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Registration for the adoption will begin on Saturday, September 23, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The adoption will start at 10:00 a.m.

A new application is required to adopt. These can be picked up at any BLM office. BLM will be taking applications at the adoption, but prefer that applicants get the paperwork processed before the adoption.

BLM is sponsoring "horse training clinics" by Mario Johnson, a well respected horse trainer from Georgetown, ID, specializing in gaining communication and respect between a horse and its owner. He will also bring 2 Sulphur horses he has gentled to be adopted.

The first clinic will be Friday, September 22, at 5:00 p.m. Johnson will hold another clinic from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m., Saturday morning. He will also be available through the adoption to answer questions.

The horses came off the range in good shape this year because of the vegetation that is beginning to recover after the years of drought, and there are quite a few buckskins, duns and grullas in the group, said Hunter.

BLM has taken precautions to ensure the safety of the animals. Newly adopted wild horses and burros are not accustomed to traveling in a horse trailer.

Hunter said, "When you consider the stress of adoption day, people, and separation from the herd, the risk of injury can be very high. BLM suggests that horses be transported in three-horse or larger trailers. Four-horse trailers are the best. They are very easy to load with fewer mishaps."

For more information, please contact Chad Hunter at the Bureau of Land Management, 176 East DL Sargent Drive, Cedar City, Utah 84720, or (435) 586-2401.

FREE STATE PARKS DAY SEPTEMBER 30
Salt Lake -- Celebrate Free State Parks Day and National Public Lands Day Saturday, September 30. Day-use fees will be waived at all Utah state parks. (Special fees, such as golf and camping fees still apply.) Visit for the day or volunteer to improve your state parks. For more information, please call (801) 538-7220.

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

September 23 Iron Mission State Park Museum - Cedar City
Living History series: Join Dave Stolrow beginning at 9 a.m. to learn about different types of leather, leather working tools, and make a small leather item to take home. The workshop fee is $7.00 per person. To register or for more information, please call (435) 586-9290.

September 29 Goblin Valley State Park - Green River
Discover Goblin Valley: Join the park staff for an evening walk through the goblins beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Observation Point shelter. Find out how the goblins came to be, and who lurks around in the night! For more information, please call (435) 564-3633.

September 30 Goblin Valley State Park - Green River
Junior Ranger Program: Who lives here? Learn about the wildlife that calls Goblin Valley home. Find out what it might be like to live in the desert. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Observation Point shelter. This program is geared to children six to 12, but everyone is invited. Become a Junior Ranger and earn a Junior Ranger badge! For more information, please call (435) 564-3633.

September 30 Goblin Valley State Park - Green River
Amphitheater Grand Opening: Join park staff for the grand opening of the Goblin Valley amphitheater at 7:30 p.m. Follow the journey of a plant seed's life and learn about Goblin Valley's rocks and wildlife. Sit back and enjoy this theater program or take part in the show. For more information, please call (435) 564-3633.

October 1 - November 30 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Art exhibit: North Ogden artist Kevin Mikkelsen displays his color photographs. Mikkelsen uses both digital and film technology. Photographs will be available for sale. Samples of Mikkelsen's work can be seen viewed at http://www.photographyoutdoors.com. For more information, please call (801) 725-9263.

Bluegrass Banjo Class scheduled

Hi Everyone,

If you would, forward this on to any bluegrass banjo players (or your mailing lists) you might know. Bill Evans is conducting a workshop this Sunday in Salt Lake and it would be nice to see a good turnout from the Utah folk community!

Mike Iverson

I'll be heading to Salt Lake City for a bluegrass banjo workshop this coming Sunday, September 24. It's open to all levels of students and will focus on backup and accompaniment techniques and strategies. Here's the lowdown:

September 24: Sandy, UT (Salt Lake City area): Bill Evans Banjo Workshop, The Acoustic Musician, 9437 South Union Square (695 East), 7 to 9 p.m. Workshop is open to all levels of students and will focus on back up and
accompaniment skills. Advance reservations are recommended by phoning Mike Taylor at 866-751-6040.
There's also more info at http://www.theacousticmusician.com - I hope to see some of you Utah banjo players at this session

Sincerely,

Bill Evans

THIS WEEK AT THE OLYMPIC PARKS OF UTAH

UTAH OLYMPIC OVAL/SOLDIER HOLLOW/UTAH OLYMPIC PARK

http://www.olyparks.com /1-866-OLY-PARKS / GET UP & GO!

1) Intermountain Ski Hall of Fame to Induct 4 Olympians, Mcphie, Strand

2) Roller Derby Is Coming To Utah Olympic Oval September 30

3) Media Credentials For The 2006 Viessmann Luge World Cup And The 2006 FIBT Bobsled and Skeleton World Cup

4) Gravity Zone Activities Continue Throughout The Fall

5) Upcoming Schedule Of Events

INTERMOUNTAIN SKI HALL OF FAME TO INDUCT 4 OLYMPIANS, MCPHIE, STRAND

Four one-time Olympic competitors, a prominent early-day ski aficionado and a Utah ski area developer will take their place among the region's legends of skiing when they are inducted into the Will and Jean Pickett Intermountain Ski Hall of Fame at the Joe Quinney Winter Sports Center here Thursday, September, 21, 2006.

The inductees are:

· Marv Melville, Salt Lake City, dominant in the regional racing circuit in the 1950s-60s, two-time Olympian and University of Utah and Olympic ski coach;

· Cal McPhie, Salt Lake City, developer of Little Mountain and Gorgoza Ski Areas and a member of the World War II submarine crew that rescued downed U.S. pilot George H. W. Bush who became the nation's 41st President of the United States;

· Dick Movitz, Salt Lake City, as a member of the University of Utah ski team, he was a winner of collegiate and U.S. championships and competed in the 1948 Olympic Games and on the FIS circuit;

· Dev Jennings (deceased), Salt Lake City, a national collegiate champion with the University of Utah, he competed in the 1948 Olympic Winter Games and was a member of the storied 10^th Mountain Division during World War II;

· Jack Reddish (deceased), Salt Lake City, a 1948 and 1952 U.S. Olympic Ski Team member, he won the National Ski Association's downhill and combined titles in 1948 and the national slalom and combined events in 1950 and 1952;

· Marthenius (Mark, M.A.) Strand, (deceased), Oslo, Norway, Salt Lake City, he organized the first ski club in the region in 1915, was a ski jumping tournament promoter at Ecker Hill in the 1920s and 1930s, engineered the first chair lift in Utah (Alta), was a nationally recognized ski jumping judge, U.S. Olympic Committee member, and was instrumental in organizing the Intermountain Ski Association.

Each honoree or his family will receive a glass plaque that bears a likeness during his prime ski-related years and a brief description of their skiing exploits. A duplicate plaque will be enshrined at the Quinney Center here where it will be on permanent display in the Will and Jean Pickett Hall of Fame, named in recognition of the late ski enthusiasts who lived in Salt Lake City.

According to Scott C. Ulbrich, president of the non-profit Alf Engen Ski Museum Foundation that oversees the Hall of Fame, 150 are expected to attend the reception and awards ceremony.

He said Hall of Fame selections are made annually by knowledgeable ski historians from Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. The selection criteria focus is on outstanding achievements in the areas of skiing competition, skiing innovation, ski sport development and significant contributions to the overall promotion of skiing. Ulbrich added that priority is given to those who have made contributions to the sport that have resulted in significant benefits to the Intermountain Area over a long period.

The selections originate with the volunteer members of the Ski Archives Advisory Board. The University of Utah's J. Willard Marriott Library Ski Archives program began in 1989 with the mission to collect, preserve and make available to the public, the history of skiing in the Intermountain Region.

The Intermountain Ski Hall of Fame inductees to date are:

2002: Junior Bounous, Zane A. Doyle, Alf M. Engen, Sverre Engen, Karre "Corey" Engen, Gretchen K. Fraser, W. Averill Harriman and S. Joseph "Joe" Quinney

2003: Stein Eriksen, Bill Briggs and Axel Andreason

2004: Pepi Steigler, "Mayor" George Watson, Suzy Harris Rytting, Bill Lash, Bill Spencer and Edward L. Scott

2005: Edgar B. Stern, Jr., Neil Rafferty, M. Earl Miller, Lou Lorenz, Keith Lange, James R. Gaddis.

The Hall of Fame inscription for each of the 2006 inductees reads as follows:

H Devereaux "Dev" Jennings

1924-2000

Inducted 2006

From winning races on barrel staves to racing on the U.S. Olympic Team, Dev Jennings' skiing exploits are exemplary. Carving his first turns on the gully off the first tee at Salt Lake City's Bonneville Golf Course, Dev used his natural talents and grace on skis to win trophies in the Harriman Cup, Reno's Silver Belt and national championships. He was a member of the 1947 University of Utah Ski Team, which brought that institution its first national collegiate ski championship.

Dev finished 45^th among 102 racers in the downhill competition of the 1948 Olympic Winter Games in St. Moritz, Switzerland and served as a rifle squad leader and ski and rock climbing instructor for the 10^th Mountain Division in the European Theater. His racing talents brought him more accolades while skiing under the banners of the Aspen Ski Team and the Colorado State team. His love of the sport led to forays into ski design and manufacturing, coaching, officiating, marketing and promotion.

Dev was executive director of Ski Utah from 1961-1970 and executive director of Ski New England, a marketing organization promoting 11 of New England's premier ski resorts from 1975-1995. He was inducted in the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame in 1989 and as a Legend in Ski Competition of the University of Utah J. Willard Marriott Library Ski Archives in 1992.

Calvin "Cal" McPhie

(1923 - )

Inducted 2006

The lifelong accomplishments of Cal McPhie run deep - literally. They range from serving as a submariner in the Pacific and East China Seas during World War II to spearheading two Utah ski areas that served as nurturing grounds for developing the love of the sport among thousands of enthusiasts. A Salt Lake City native, he volunteered at age 18 to serve in the U.S. Navy, which assigned him to the USS Finback, a submarine that etched its name into history in 1944 by rescuing five U.S. pilots downed in the Pacific Ocean, one of which was George H. W. Bush, who became the nation's 41st President of the United States. The fifth pilot was under fire in a life raft and had to be rescued by periscope one mile off Mt. Surabachi, a first in Naval history.

In 1950 Cal purchased Little Mountain, a ski area at the summit of Emigration Canyon, east of Salt Lake City. It was the first area to offer night skiing, operating nightly and daily on weekends. It sold a 15-ride pass for 50 cents, a night pass for $1 and a weekend day pass for $1.50. Cal and his wife Dodie operated the area until 1968 when it was destroyed by fire. Undaunted, he conceived and developed Gorgoza, an "all-purpose winter resort" at the summit of Parleys Canyon that he operated from 1968 to 1972. It featured day and night skiing, ice skating, toboggan chutes and a tubing hill.

Cal and his wife, Dodie, are charter members of the University of Utah Ski Archives advisory board.

Marv Melville

(1935 - )

Inducted 2006

The competitive spirit of Salt Lake City native Marv Melville ran deep during an impressive ski racing and coaching career that spanned more than 50 years. His accomplishments were far-reaching: winning the 1952 Knudsen Cup giant slalom, the premier high school race of the period; competing in the Junior National Championships in 1952 and 1953 and other national senior competitions, including the U.S. National Championships, Roche Cup and the Harriman Cup. In 1955 he won the Snow Cup, was named an NCAA All-American while skiing for the University of Utah, and was named to the 1956 U.S. Olympic Team. In 1958 he competed in the FIS World Championships in Badgastein, Austria. In 1959 he won the NCAA downhill and slalom and finished fourth and fifth in the U. S. National Championships. That same year he was selected for the 1960 U. S. Olympic Team.

After finishing 22^nd in the downhill at the 1960 Olympic Winter Games, Marv established the Alpine Training School (ATS) to aid young skiers advance in their disciplines. He coached the University of Utah (U of U) Ski Team from 1963 to 1966 and was an assistant coach for the 1964 U.S. Olympic Team. In 1978 he joined the Masters Class ski racing circuit where he dominated his age group in alpine and cross-country competitions through 2002. Marv was inducted into the U of U Crimson Club Hall of Fame in 1992 and was recognized by the U of U J. Willard Marriott Library's Ski Archives in 2005 as a Historymaker.

Dick Movitz

(1925- )

Inducted 2006

Dick Movitz personifies a winner. His give-it-all-you've-got competitive spirit brought him many exceptional accomplishments on and off the ski hill. In 1946, he won the U.S. Slalom Championships and the National Collegiate Slalom Championships. As a member of the University of Utah Ski Team, he repeated as collegiate slalom champion in 1947, the same year he placed third in slalom and combined in the U.S. Ski Championships.

Dick's charging style found him finishing second in the 1948 Harriman Cup, in the combined of the North American Ski Championships and the U.S. National Ski Championships. That same year he raced against the world's finest as a member of the U.S. Olympic Team which competed in St. Moritz, Switzerland. He was in more world-class competition as a slalom and giant slalom specialist for the U.S. Ski Team in the 1950 FIS Championships. In 1958 he became a member and later chairman of the U.S. Ski Association's International Competitions Committee and 1960 was an official at the Olympic Winter Games in Squaw Valley, California.

Dick was inducted into the U.S. Ski Association Hall of Fame in 1970 and into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame in 1975.

JACK REDDISH

1926-1992

Inducted 2006

· A 1948 and 1952 U.S. Olympic Games team member, finishing seventh in the slaloms at St. Moritz.

· National Ski Association National Downhill and Combined champion and Harriman Cup winner in 1948.

· National Ski Association slalom and combined champion in 1950 and 1952

The 1940s were the "Decade of the Reddish" on the American ski scene and in some venues in Europe. Jack's exploits on skis during that period are considered among the greatest in the history of the sport in North America. He was destined for greatness at age 14 when he not only won the Snow Cup but also became the youngest competitor to ever jump off the storied Ecker Hill where he won the National Ski Association Class "B" title in 1942.

In 1940 Jack was the Intermountain Slalom champion and the Intermountain Class "C" champion jumper from 1940-45. In 1947 he added the prestigious Bradley Plate four-way title to his honors and finished first in the U.S. Olympic downhill tryouts. Jack's triumphs, enthusiasm, dedication and sportsmanship on and off the ski hills earned him a coveted spot in the National Ski Hall of Fame in Ishpeming, Michigan, in 1969.

After retiring from skiing competition, Jack moved to Hollywood and applied his daring-do to a successful movie production career that finds his name among the credits of such movies as "Bonnie and Clyde", "The Thomas Crowne Affair" and "Bullit". Jack was inducted into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame in 1973 and honored by the University of Utah J Willard Marriott Library Ski Archives in 1992 as a Legends of Skiing Competition.

Marthinius (Mark) Strand

1887-1965

Inducted 2006

Marthinius (Mark or M.A.) Strand has been recognized as the "father of organized skiing". He established the first ski club in the Intermountain Region - the Norwegian Young Folks Society in 1915, the same year he staged the first ski jumping tournament in the region. It was the forerunner for numerous Strand-promoted world-class jumping competitions in the1920s and 1930s that attracted more than 10,000 spectators to Ecker Hill.

Strand helped organize the Intermountain Ski Association and was its historian for many years. Later he became vice president and then honorary director for life of the National Ski Association of America (now the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association). In 1939 he was one of three men who envisioned a ski lift at Alta's Collins Gulch, a vision that resulted in his building the first chairlift in Utah. He was a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee in 1932 and 1952 and in 1931, 1952, 1954 and 1962 was the U.S. representative at World Ski Congress in Stockholm, Sweden. He was a ski jumping official for national collegiate and National Ski Association tournaments as well as a board member of the National Ski Association National Ski Museum. When he was inducted into the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame in 1959 he was called "the foremost man in the Intermountain Ski world."

Strand immigrated to the United States from Norway in 1910 at age of 23. A skilled gun-maker, M.A. was an electrical engineer and founded Strand Electric Company in Salt Lake City in 1924.

For more information on the 2006 Ski Hall of Fame Inductees please contact Connie

Nelson, executive director, Alf Engen Ski Museum Foundation, at (435) 658-4240.

Photos are available.

ROLLER DERBY IS COMING TO UTAH OLYMPIC OVAL SEPTEMBER 30

The Utah Olympic Oval is proud to host the Salt City Derby Girls (SCDG) second flat track roller derby bout of the season on Saturday, September 30.

The Sisters of No Mercy will take on the Leave it to Cleavers in this bout consisting of 3 twenty minute periods.

Doors will open at 7 p.m. with the bout starting at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online for $10 at http://www.saltcityderbygirls.com . Day of event tickets can be purchased for $15 (cash only at the door).

SCDG formed in 2005 and they currently have over 40 women participants. With names like Destroyher, Saya Prayers, and Yanita Beating roller derby is not for the faint of heart. There are injuries.

Members of the league come from all walks of life from housewives to students and full-time professionals, but they hold one thing in common: they have a love and passion for roller derby.

"Our Olympic venue is about athletic participation and entertainment. For these reasons it just makes good sense to do something outside of our normal operations to educate more individuals about our location and all that we offer the public", states Steve Kun, Marketing & Community Relations Manager.

2002 wasn't just about the Games…it was about building a legacy for YOU! So come out, get involved and say "It's MY Olympic venue!"

The Utah Olympic Oval is located at 5662 South Cougar Lane (4800 West) in Kearns.

You may call (801) 968-OVAL or visit our website at http://www.olyparks.com .

For more event information contact Steve Kun, marketing & community relations manager at (801) 963-7117 or steve.kun@olyparks.com

GRAVITY ZONE ACTIVITIES CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE FALL

The gravity zone activities at the Utah Olympic Park will continue to operate through out the fall season. Activities include Xtreme zipline, Ultra zipline, Quicksilver alpine slide and Comet bobsled rides. The Xtreme Zip, Ultra Zip and Quicksilver alpine slide will be available Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. until October 29. Comet bobsled rides will be available Saturdays and Sundays from 1 - 5 p.m. until October 15.

The freestyle and Nordic hills are open until October 8. Go flying into a 750,000-gallon splash pool in half-day freestyle introductory camps for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Introductory freestyle camps are held daily from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Cost is $65 per person.

The Utah Olympic Park continues to offer expert guided tours every day on the hour with the first tour at 10 a.m. and the last tour at 4 p.m. For more information on activities at the Utah Olympic Park please contact 435-658-4200 or visit our website at www.olyparks.com.

SEPTEMBER 2006 - MARCH 2007 UPCOMING EVENTS AT OLYMPIC PARKS

Sept. 23-24, Desert Classic Series Final, Utah Olympic Oval

Sept. 30, Salt City Derby Girls - Roller Derby Tournament, Utah Olympic Oval

Oct. 13-14, Community Skate Night, Utah Olympic Oval

Oct. 27-28, Halloween "Spookiest Ice On Earth" Public Skate, Utah Olympic Oval

Oct. 27-29, "Weekend Warrior" Long Track Speed Skating Camp, Utah Olympic Oval

Oct. 28, Salt City Derby Girls - Roller Derby Tournament, Utah Olympic Oval

Nov. 3-4, Christmas Tree Permit Sale and Pre Winter Ski Sale, Soldier Hollow

Nov. 7-12, US National Skeleton Team Selections, Utah Olympic Park

Nov. 10-11, Community Skate Night, Utah Olympic Oval

Nov. 14-17, FIBT/FIL International Training Week, Utah Olympic Park

Nov. 17, Turkey Bowling Public Skate, Utah Olympic Oval

Nov. 17, Soup and Soldier Hollow Fundraiser, Soldier Hollow

Nov. 27 - Dec. 2, Luge World Cup, Utah Olympic Park

Dec. 1, 5^th Annual Holiday Festival, Utah Olympic Oval

Dec. 2-3, Long Track American Cup, Utah Olympic Oval

Dec. 4-9, Bobsled and Skeleton World Cup, Utah Olympic Park

Dec. 8, 2^nd Annual World Record Skate, Utah Olympic Oval

Dec. 8-10, "Weekend Warrior" Long Track Speed Skating Camp, Utah Olympic Oval

Dec. 9, Community Skate Night, Utah Olympic Oval

Dec. 13-21, Bobsled and Skeleton America's Cup, Utah Olympic Park

Dec. 15-22, US Freestyle Team Selections, Utah Olympic Park

Dec. 15-16, Nordic Jumping World Cup B, Utah Olympic Park

Dec. 29-30, US National Bobsled and Skeleton Qualifying Races, Utah Olympic Park

Jan. 1-7, 2007, US National Bobsled and Skeleton Championships, Utah Olympic Park

Jan. 4, 2007, Freestyle Regional Competition, Utah Olympic Park

Jan. 12-13, 2007, Utah Winter Games - Nordic Jumping, Utah Olympic Park

Jan. 14, 2007, Utah Winter Games - Luge, Utah Olympic Park

Jan. 19, 2007, Freestyle Regional Competition, Utah Olympic Park

Jan. 27, 2007, WLC 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

KIDS' FISHING DAY AT GIGLIOTTI POND

PRICE, UTAH--A lot of Castle Country kids participated in the kids' fishing day at the Gigliotti Pond in Helper on Saturday, September 16th. Located on Martin Street, this local fishing hole features modern restrooms, a paved parking lot, concrete sidewalks and covered fishing pavilions. All facilities are handicap-accessible.

About 80 moms, dads and kids fished the pond that had been stocked earlier in the week with more than 1,500 10-inch rainbow trout. Savvy anglers found that the best technique was to drop a nightcrawler about three feet below a bubble and let it sit. Those who learned the technique caught their limit of four fish. In addition to trout, the Gigliotti Pond features a healthy population of bluegill and largemouth bass.

The free drawing at noon was an exciting event for everyone. Each boy and girl won a prize of some kind. Most won a free rod or reel and a sack of tackle. Prize items were purchased from funds donated by the Kiwanas Club of Price and Joy Mining Machinery. The Division of Wildlife Resources wishes to thank these sponsors for their generous contributions.

Utah Anglers Coalition Meeting Set

The next meeting of the Utah Anglers Coalition will be Thursday, September 21, 2006, 4:00 p.m., at the Department of Natural Resources, 1594 West North Temple, Salt Lake City, Room 112.

* * * * *

Agenda:

Discuss prospects to fill open UAC board positions next year.
Other agenda items pending.

* * * * *

Attachments:
- August UAC minutes

Note: Angling or aquatics oriented organizations or businesses are welcome to become a UAC member. Any interested persons are invited to participate in any of the meetings. Please let me know if you would like further information or to be removed from this mailing list. For more information visit http://www.utahanglerscoalition.org .

Ski Utah Launches New and Improved Web Sites

Skiutah.com and Rideutah.com feature a new look, remain the ultimate resources for enthusiasts of the Greatest Snow on Earth®

SALT LAKE CITY - For years, Skiutah.com has been the authority for skiers and snowboarders seeking resort, lodging, dining and snow report information for Utah. As the state continues to set new records for skier day numbers, the Web site's popularity has exploded as well. The 2005-06 ski season saw a record four million skier days while Skiutah.com matched this total with over 4 million page views per month.

"Given the surge in skier days and web visits, we felt it was time to offer those seeking information on skiing and snowboarding in Utah an enhanced online experience that better represents our fantastic ski product. SkiUtah.com has enjoyed great success over the last few seasons but was in need of an upgrade to stay ahead of the curve in internet technology and accessibility. " said Nathan Rafferty, president of Ski Utah.

With that in mind, Tim Roberts, Ski Utah's webmaster, created a new layout and design that is both progressive and more user-friendly. The updated, sleek look offers improved speed and conveniently features the daily snow report on the home page.

"With this redesign we hope to continue making strides in increasing traffic on the Web site and remaining the ultimate source for information on Utah skiing on the World Wide Web," added Roberts.

Last year Skiutah.com reported 400,000 visitor sessions and 110,000 unique visitors per month.

Rideutah.com received a facelift as well. The site, also administered by Ski Utah, is devoted to snowboarders and is now in partnership with Burton Snowboards. The new site offers greater quality content, an improved look and feel and more detailed information about snowboarding in Utah. It now also features snowboard-related product reviews and athlete interviews. A new Ride Utah snow report will debut this winter.

Utah Tourism Board Approves $1.86 Million in Co-op Marketing Projects Second Year of Funding to Promote Utah to Out-of-state Visitors

Brigham City * Members of the Utah Board of Tourism Development have approved more than $1.86 million in funding from Utah's Cooperative Marketing program. The board approved 49 of the 56 applications submitted to the Utah Office of Tourism by non-profit tourism entities around the state. In all, applicants requested more than $2.7 million in state funding. The board set aside nearly $522,000 of the $2.3 million available this fiscal year for special opportunities.

"We are pleased that the board was able to fund advertising projects designed to increase visitation to Utah in 23 of the state's 29 counties," said Leigh von der Esch, managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism, Governor's Office of Economic Development. "This is the second year we have been able to leverage the state's advertising program with local matching dollars." Last year, 48 applications were funded totaling more than $1.89 million.

"We felt as a committee to fund applications that will give us a return on the money," said Hans Fuegi, chairman of the board's Cooperative Marketing Committee.

Approved Applications
1. American Dream Foundation/Union Station Foundation $30,000
2. Box Elder County Tourism Office $6,075
3. Castle Country $2,502
4. Davis Area Convention and Visitors Bureau $33,775
5. Heber Valley Railroad Authority $15,000
6. Historic District Improvement Company $20,900
7. Huntsman World Senior Games $75,000
8. Moab Arts Council $6,600
9. Moab Music Festival $6,900
10. Ogden Weber Convention and Visitors Bureau/Weber Co. $220,235
11. Panguitch Main Street, Inc. $5,000
12. Park City Convention and Visitors Bureau $250,000
13. Park City Jazz Festival $25,000
14. Park City Jazz Festival (IAJE) $25,000
15. Park City Performing Arts Foundation $91,010
16. Pioneer Theater Company $35,000
17. Salt Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau $75,000
18. Salt Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau/Clark Planetarium,
Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Thanksgiving Point Institute, Red
Butte Garden $75,000
19. Utah Festival Opera Company $39,125
20. Utah Shakespearean Festival $99,325
21. Utah Ski & Snowboard Association / Ski Utah $132,000
22. Wasatch Western Heritage, Inc. $12,000
23. Wayne County Travel Council $11,360.26
24. West Valley City $29,500
25. Cache Valley Visitors Bureau/Box Elder County Tourism, Rich
County Tourism $26,452.50
26. Castle Country/Moab Area Travel, Dinosaurland, Moab,
Canyon Country $16,899
27. Dinosaurland Travel Board $7,652.50
28. Four Corners Heritage Council $8,125
29. Friends of the Moab Folk Festival $15,000
30. Juab Travel Council $3,750
31. Olde World Historical Council/Dickens' Christmas Festival $10,000
32. Sevier County Travel Council $10,000
33. Utah Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau $65,825
34. American West Heritage Center $20,000
35. America's Freedom Festival/Utah Valley Convention and Visitors
Bureau $25,550
36. Canyonlands USA $18,000
37. Ogden Union Station Foundation/American Dream Foundation $7,550
38. Red Rock Golf Trail $40,000
39. Underdog Foundation - Park City Culinary, Wine & Ski Classic $6,146
40. Alta Resort Association/Salt Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau $28,000
41. Carbon County Fairgrounds and Exhibition/Events Center $6,551
42. Castle Country/Visitor's Guide $16,500
43. City of St. George - Community Arts and Exhibits Division $15,000
44. City of St. George - Community Arts and Exhibits Division $7,500
45. Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce - Golf Wasatch $25,000
46. Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce * Snowmobiling $20,000
47. Kimball Art Center $67,511
48. Ogden Union Station Foundation/Golden Spike Heritage Foundation $36,000
49. SunParks, Inc. $37,500
Total $1,861,819.26

Those eligible for the co-op program include cities, counties, non-profit destination marketing organizations (DMO's), and similar public entities that have been established as a non-profit for a minimum of one year. The Utah Office of Tourism will match up to 50% of the cost of a marketing project. All projects must utilize the Utah "Life Elevated" brand and have a call to action.

For additional information on the state's Cooperative Marketing program, contact the Utah Office of Tourism, 300 N. State St., Salt Lake City, Utah, 84114, (801) 538-1900 or visit http://travel.utah.gov/co-opmktg.htm .

REI COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR OCTOBER

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.

GPS 101 Thursday, October 19th, 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 experts as they unveil 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.

GEOLOGY OF THE WASATCH Thursday, October 26th, 7pm

This evening, REI welcomes William Parry, University of Utah Professor Emeritus of geology and author of A Hiking Guide to the Geology of the Wasatch Mountains. His presentation will focus on the geologic history of mountain building events and rocks that form the Wasatch Mountains. The geological features will be explained in the context of the theory of plate tectonics. Two super- continents were assembled and then broken apart to form North America. Eight separate mountain building events and several episodes of glaciation culminated in formation of the present day Wasatch Mountains. His slides and interpretations will serve as a great resource for outdoor enthusiasts looking to expand their knowledge of the Wasatch.

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.

GPS 201 Tuesday, October 3rd, 7pm

A Global Positioning System is a fascinating piece of technology that can help you find your way through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert Dennis Watson as he explains the theory and operation of the ubiquitous satellite positioning in a presentation that will take participants beyond the basics. This clinic will cover more advanced GPS functions such as computer interfacing, manual entry of waypoints, and other helpful navigation tips.

PETZL CLIMBER CHRIS LINDNER Thursday, October 5th, 7pm

Future and present climbers of America, we've got a free upcoming presentation that we think you're going to love. Petzl is sending professional rock climber Chris Lindner our way to give a slide and video presentation of some epic climbing of the Patagonia region of Argentina, and to sign some posters. And if that's not enough to entice you, there will also be an opportunity to win a Petzl climbing helmet and headlamp.

WALKING IN BEAUTY: STORIES FROM THE RAINBOW BRIDGE TRAIL Tuesday, October 10th, 7pm

Thousands of people each year visit Rainbow Bridge from Lake Powell, though very few make the pilgrimage from the north side of Navajo Mountain along the Rainbow Trail. The Navajo interpret the symmetrical curve as symbolic of the rainbow and deem it a sacred place associated with life giving rain and rain making rituals. In 1909, the "official" Anglo discovery took place, though the expedition members could not agree on who was the first, a controversy that continues to present day. Zane Gray and Teddy Roosevelt were among early visitors and shared cultural stories of pack train antics, exquisite sandstone formations, and Paiute & Navajo guides. Writers in later years describe both the preservation of traditional ways in the remote section of the reservation as well as the mixed blessings of modern developments. In the not to distant future, a paved road will reach the Navajo Mountain Community on the Utah- Arizona border. This evening, naturalists from The Canyonlands Field Institute will share images and readings from this place of stunning beauty and cultural tradition, as well as describing possible educational adventures for adults, families and programs for schools.

GEOLOGY OF THE WASATCH Tuesday, October 17th, 7pm

GPS TROUBLESHOOTING Saturday, October 14^th, 10am-Noon

Need help with that new GPS? Having set up problems? Got a few questions? Looking to buy a new GPS? Bring your questions to REI where navigation expert Dennis Watson will provide you with personal & customized assistance.

CHRIS DAVENPORT SKIS THE 14ERS Tuesday, October 24th, 7pm

There are 54 rugged mountain peaks in Colorado over 14000 feet, and in 2006, professional freeskier Chris Davenport made it his quest to be the first to ski them all in a single season. Join this big mountain skier this evening as he gives an exciting multi-media presentation about his mission. His presentation will include; a teaser from the film about his quest; a slideshow of thrilling and majestic images; stories from his most his most interesting summits and descents; how he trained; the gear he used and time for Q&A.

COMMUNITY EVENTS, REI CLASSES & LOCAL OUTINGS:

UTAH RIVERS COUNCIL/REI JORDAN RIVER PADDLE Wednesday, October 4th, 5:30pm

Join the Utah Rivers Council and REI on a Jordan River float! Come explore a fascinating and diverse urban river run in your own backyard. This is a mild, family-friendly trip with canoe and kayak options. You'll also learn a little about the natural history of the Jordan, and about work to restore this city-slicker river. We will provide boats, paddles and life jackets. Space is limited, so contact the Utah Rivers Council at 801-486-4776 or sarah@utahrivers.org to reserve your place today! Boats, paddles and lifejackets provided at no charge by REI. Limit of 22 participants, $20 required donation goes to support river advocacy programs.

THE THIRD ANNUAL JOSIE JOHNSON MEMORIAL RIDE Saturday, October 7th, 10:30am

The third annual Josie Johnson Memorial Ride is being held Oct. 7 with a 10:30 a.m. start at the South Terrace at Sugar House Park. The route is a one-way 8 1/2 -mile ride and ends at Mill Hollow Park, near the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon will speak at the start and a short ceremony at the end of the ride will honor bicyclists killed while riding. There is no cost to ride. Visit http://www.utahbike.org for more information.

JORDAN RIVER & PARKWAY CLEANUP Saturday, October 14^th, 8am

Volunteers are needed to help improve the Jordan River! We will meet at 8:00am for breakfast and working from 9am until noon to remove trash from the riverside, paint guardrails, and erase graffiti. Lunch will be served to all participants. Every year, Great Salt Lakekeeper plans community based river cleanup projects throughout the watershed. With the help of volunteer groups we remove tons of garbage from the waterways. For more information please check out http://www.greatsaltlakekeeper.org or call Jeff Salt at 485-2550.

REI GPS NAVIGATION DAY Saturday, October 21^st, 9am

Spend a day outdoors and an hour indoors with REI GPS experts 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 at REI Salt Lake, field session at Tanner's/Parley's Park. Cost is $15 for REI members, $30 for non-members. Advance registration is required, please call (801) 486-2100 or stop into our Salt Lake location.

Strong Public Support, Day of Recognition for Hunters and Anglers

NEWTOWN, Conn.-Congress established National Hunting and Fishing Day in 1971 to acknowledge the conservation and economic importance of sportsmen and women.

Now 35 years later, a strong majority of Americans still agree with Congress' message.

Sept. 23 marks the 35th annual National Hunting and Fishing Day. The special day of recognition approaches alongside a new national poll showing a strong majority of Americans 18 and older support hunting and fishing.

In fact, the 2006 survey shows support for hunting has actually increased from 10 years ago.

"We have been seeing public support for hunting increase at state levels, but this is the first nationwide study where we could verify that public support has increased over the past decade. In 1995, 73 percent of Americans approved of hunting. In 2006, 78 percent approved," said Mark Damian Duda, executive director of Responsive Management, which conducted the survey.

Why the increasing support for hunting? Duda says research shows that as Americans learn more about the role of hunting in wildlife management, coupled with a visible increase of deer in urban areas, public support grows.

"Without hunters, many game species would go unmanaged, unbalanced, with populations too high or too low to suit an environmentally conscious America. That was the original message of National Hunting and Fishing Day 35 years ago, and it's gratifying to see it still ringing true in modern society," said Doug Painter, president of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, which founded the annual commemoration.

While approximately three of every four Americans approve of legal hunting, more than nine of every 10 approve of recreational fishing.

The new statistics are based on a scientifically valid sample of 813 Americans. A random telephone survey was conducted between Aug. 31 and Sept. 9, 2006. The margin of error is +/- 3.44 percentage points. Responsive Management conducted the study under a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

National Hunting and Fishing Day has an official home at Wonders of Wildlife, the National Fish and Wildlife Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Mo. Country music star Tracy Byrd serves as this year's honorary chairman. For more information, visit http://www.nhfday.org/ .

Poll Data

Do you approve or disapprove of legal hunting? (2006)
77.6% Approve (45.4% strongly approve, 32.2% moderately approve)
16.3% Disapprove (8% strongly disapprove, 8.3% moderately disapprove)
6.1% Neither approve nor disapprove, don't know

Do you approve or disapprove of legal hunting? (1995)
73% Approve (40% strongly approve, 33% moderately approve)
22% Disapprove (11% strong disapprove, 11% moderately disapprove)
5% Neither approve nor disapprove, don't know

Do you approve or disapprove of recreational fishing? (2006)
93.3% Approve (68.5% strongly approve, 24.8% moderately approve)
5.2% Disapprove (2% strongly disapprove, 3.2% moderately disapprove)
1.5% Neither approve nor disapprove

Do you approve or disapprove of legal fishing? (1995)
95% Approve (65% strongly approve, 30% moderately approve)
3% Disapprove (1% strongly disapprove, 2% moderately disapprove)
2% Neither approve nor disapprove, don't know

NASA seeks Greatest Fan

Are you between the ages of 13 and 24? Do you think you are "NASA's Greatest Fan?" Prove it! One lucky winner will win a trip to Kennedy Space Center to view a Shuttle launch. In 30 seconds or less, show us your passion for our space programs -- human spaceflight, exploration of the universe, space and earth science, or aeronautics and do it quickly. You don't have much time.

We can only accept the first 1500 entries. The contest window opens on Monday, September 18 at 8:00 a.m. EST and closes Friday, September 22 at midnight EST, unless we hit 1500 entries early. Your file cannot exceed 2 MB in size. Our team of NASA judges will look for originality, creative expression and humor, not professional packaging.

Think about questions such as: What has space done for me? Why is space important in daily life? How would our country be different without space? But don't think about it too long. Remember, you don't have much time...so get out your digital camera and get started. Nine finalists will be selected for online voting from September 27-30, and featured at WIRED Magazine's NextFest technology showcase in the Exploration Pavilion at the Javitz Convention Center in New York City. http://contest.nasa.gov Carla Rosenberg Assistant Education Program Manager Space Operations Mission Directorate NASA Headquarters 300 E Street Washington, DC 20546 (202)358-1734

BLM Seeks Public Comments on Oil Shale RD&D EA

Vernal, Utah -- Today the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced the release of the Oil Shale Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) Environmental Assessment (EA) for a 30-day public comment period, which
closes on October 18, 2006.

This preliminary EA analyzes Oil Shale Exploration Company's (OSEC) proposed project to conduct RD&D operations at the site of the former White River Shale Oil Company's mine site. The 160-acre project area is
approximately four miles south of Bonanza, Utah, within Uintah County on public lands administered by BLM's Vernal Field Office.

This RD&D project is part of the federal government's efforts to initiate a phased approach to oil shale development. This effort would increase the knowledge regarding the viability of innovative technologies for oil shale development on a commercial scale on federal lands. The phased approach would also allow environmental affects to be carefully tested and assessed in a controlled setting, prior to determining if commercial operations should be authorized.

The proposal would have three phases of demonstration and development Phase I would involve the off location testing of surface stockpiles of oil shale from the site. Phase II would involve the on-site small scale processing of oil shale stockpiles and testing the former White River Mine for potential reentry. Phase III would involve larger scale oil
shale processing mining and on location disposal of spent shale.

The processing of the oil shale involves it being heated to be converted into a petroleum product. This is also known as "retort" technology that involves mining rock and heating it above ground as the former White River Oil Shale Company proposed when they had oil shale leases in the same location in the 1970's and 80's.

The EA may be reviewed online at: http://www.blm.gov/utah/vernal/nepa.html . Hardcopy and CD versions are
available at the BLM Vernal Field Office. The BLM recommends submitting comments by mail to ensure your suggestions are received. Only comments that are postmarked or otherwise received on or before October 18, 2006,
will be considered. Comments may be submitted in writing to:
Bureau of Land Management
Vernal Field Office
170 south 500 East
Vernal, UT 84078
Attn: Stephanie Howard
Comments may also be faxed to (435) 781-4410 or emailed to
UT_Vernal_Comments@blm.gov .

To maximize the value of your comments, the BLM suggests they be as specific as possible and cite suggested changes, sources, or methodologies used in the EA. The BLM will compile and incorporate public comments into the final EA.

Comments, including names and street addresses of respondents will be available for public review at the BLM Vernal Field Office and will be subject to disclosures under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). They may be published as part of the NEPA document and other related documents. Individual respondents may request confidentiality. If you
wish to withhold your name or street address from public review and disclosure under FOIA, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your written comment. Such requests will be honored to the extent
allowed by law. All submissions from organizations or businesses will be made available for public inspection in their entirety.

The RD&D leasing program is a separate initiative from the commercial oil shale leasing program that is being examined through a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS). To the extent possible, information available from the RD&D leasing program will be incorporated into the PEIS. The BLM's RD&D leasing program and the PEIS are being developed as required by the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

PARK CITY MOUNTAIN RESORT RANKED IN THE TOP FIVE SKI RESORTS IN NORTH AMERICA AGAIN

Park City, UT (September 18, 2006) - Park City Mountain Resort has once again been ranked a top five ski resort in North America by the readers of SKI magazine. The Resort broke into the top five last season (2005-2006) and is one of only two Utah resorts to receive top 10 honors in this year's readers' poll.

"It is an honor to once again be ranked among the top five ski Resorts in North America," said Peter Curtis, president and general manager of Park City Mountain Resort. "Our commitment to creating a world-class experience for our guests is fulfilled because of the dedication and hard work of our team members. It is truly because of them that we can remain a top five resort."

Individually, Park City Mountain Resort saw a dramatic improvement in its rankings for grooming, service, après ski, dining, and terrain parks. The Resort introduced its Signature Runs two seasons ago. Grooming of these advanced runs provides a new challenge for intermediate and advanced skiers or riders, exposing them to more of the mountain.

A record setting 6,000 SKI magazine subscribers of two or more years responded to the "Top 50 Resort Guide" survey, which was conducted by an independent research firm. It is the most comprehensive and longest-running ski resort survey in the winter sports industry.

Park City Mountain Resort encompasses 3,300 acres, 3,100 vertical feet, nine bowls and eight peaks offering Signature groomed runs, bumps, powder, trees, terrain parks and the Eagle Superpipe, one of North America's largest superpipes. The Resort is conveniently located 36 miles away from the Salt Lake International Airport, offering more than 500 in-bound flights daily. For more information about Park City Mountain Resort visit us online at www.parkcitymountain.com

Pheasants Forever's 2006 Pheasant Hunting Forecast

The Glory Days are Back

Overview: The 2005 pheasant hunting season was a year to remember across the upper Midwest. South Dakota maintained its hold as the "Pheasant Capital" with an estimated harvest of over 1.9 million roosters, a 40-year high. Iowa, North Dakota and Kansas all checked in with big 800,000 bird totals. Nebraska recorded its best harvest
in five years and Minnesota enjoyed its best fall in 40 years.

Unfortunately, a wet and cool spring coupled with a summer drought has prevented another mild winter from translating into the elusive MONSTER pheasant year we've all been awaiting. Nevertheless, much of the range will see similar pheasant totals to the excellent harvests enjoyed in 2005. The reason for the upswing in pheasant numbers is simple - HABITAT. More habitat acres are enabling pheasants to take advantage of favorable weather conditions. However, 2007 is a critical year for pheasants, quail, and all hunters.

The 2007 Federal Farm Bill will be debated over the coming year. Within the Farm Bill is the 39.2 million-acre Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) that is largely responsible for the birds we will enjoy chasing this fall.
So, this November when your mind is on hunting, don't forget to vote. And as a voting hunter, learn how your candidates stand on CRP and conservation issues then make an informed choice. It will matter to you and your children's success during future pheasant hunts.

Utah: Utah pheasant hunting will be fair throughout most of the state in 2006. Hunters should expect to see more pheasants in the central and northern regions this year as a result of above average precipitation stimulating favorable habitat conditions. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is kicking off a three-year pilot Walk-in Access Program in northern Utah providing access to private lands in the program. For info visit: http://wildlife.utah.gov/walkinaccess/ .

Best pheasant hunting can be found in Box Elder, Cache, Duchesne, Millard, Sevier, and Utah counties. Season Opener: Multiple

To help make a difference for future pheasant hunting seasons through habitat conservation, please consider joining Pheasants Forever today. http://www.PheasantsForever.org

Researching the Hunt

NEWTOWN, Conn.-What more can be learned about hunting? After all, humans have been students of their most primal instinct for thousands of years, so what possibly could be left to discover?

Plenty, as it turns out.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), a trade association now representing a record 3,200-plus member companies of the firearm industry, conducts and compiles research on new trends in hunting and shooting sports participation, sales, demographics, business environments and more.

Here's a roundup of some 2006 findings:

RETAIL VALUE OF A HUNTER? During his or her lifetime, an average American hunter spends $17,726.59 on hunting equipment. When licenses and lodging, food and fuel, magazines and meat processing, plus other expenses are included, the average lifetime total spent on hunting jumps to $96,017.92. These figures were calculated as part of 2006 NSSF-commissioned research. The study looked at hunters' total expenditures from age 16 to 75. During that period, an average hunter in the U.S. annually spends: $70 on rifles, $53 on shotguns, $9 on muzzleloaders, $21 on handguns, $49 on ammunition, $12 on decoys, and $49 on dogs and supplies.

HUNTING'S GOOD OLD DAYS? A majority of U.S. taxidermists report growing numbers of customers and increasing workload. But quantity isn't the only thing on the rise. The average specimen of America's most popular trophy, the whitetail buck, is getting larger over time, most taxidermists say. NSSF conducted a 2006 national survey to research taxidermy business trends, operations and challenges. More and better trophies spell good news for hunting today, but most taxidermists foresee trouble from the animal rights movement, wildlife habitat loss, and rising costs of business.

HUNTER NUMBERS UP? A 2006 study suggests there are more hunters in the U.S. than previously thought. Nearly 12 percent of Americans 16 and older, or 26.4 million people, said they hunted with gun or bow last year. The study is by the Outdoor Industry Foundation, which usually focuses on contemporary pursuits such as paddle sports and rock climbing. It is the organization's first look at hunting. NSSF is optimistic yet wary until further studies are completed, since veteran researchers maintain more conservative figures. NSSF-commissioned research shows 23 million Americans consider themselves hunters, even if latent or inactive. The National Sporting Goods Association reports 20.6 million active hunters. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service surveys show 14.7 million people, or about 5 percent of Americans, purchased a hunting license last year.

IVY LEAGUE ENDORSES HUNTING? Show Cornell University researchers a young hunter, and they'll show you a future environmentalist. A 2006 study shows that children who hunt, fish or play in the wild before age 11 are more likely to grow up with deeper understanding and respect for nature. Domestic outdoor activities like gardening also positively influence adult environmental attitudes and behaviors, but their effects aren't as strong. When kids become truly engaged with the natural world at a young age, the experience is likely to stay with them in a powerful way, shaping their environmental path, Cornell researchers say. Interestingly, participating in Scouts and other formalized outdoor education programs has no effect on adult attitudes toward the environment.

For more information on NSSF and its research programs, visit http://www.nssf.org or call 203-426-1320.

THE 2007 ADVENTURE RALLY REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

We hope you are planning on entering our 2007 Adventure Rally! Check out our website at www.RallyUSA.com for details.

This year's Adventure Rally will be headquartered at Harrah's Hotel. Exact room location to be determined. Other festival events will be located at venues throughout Laughlin. You can make hotel reservations at special rally rates through the link on the website.

If your registration includes the Magellan GPS unit, it will be mailed to you prior to the event (time allowing). We hope this will give you time to get familiar with the unit before the event.

Questions? Contact me at maryjo@rallyusa.com - If you have difficulty with your messages going through please use mjboller@!comcast.net

We'll look forward to seeing you there!