09-18-2007, 06:10 PM
Gregg Coppolo's colored pencil rendition of a black duck hen decoy has taken top honors in the 2008 Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Contest. The decoy was crafted by Russ Burr (Hingham, 1887-1955). Coppolo, who lives in Pocassett, has entered the Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Competition many times, once placing second. He was stunned and delighted to learn his entry had won first place this year. "It's unbelievable that I won considering the incredible entries that were submitted," he said.
The Massachusetts waterfowl stamp is the only waterfowl stamp series in the country requiring designs to be of working decoys - ducks, geese or shorebirds - made by deceased Massachusetts decoy makers. Coppolo's artwork will be reproduced on Massachusetts' 2008 waterfowl stamp which will go on sale in December of 2007. The $5.00 stamp is required of all waterfowl hunters. Revenues from the sale of the stamp fund projects that enhance waterfowl habitat both in Massachusetts and in the Canadian Maritime Provinces which provide critical breeding habitat for ducks and geese that winter in the Commonwealth. Stamp collectors and other conservationists also purchase these stamps for their beauty and to assist in the wetland conservation. The Massachusetts Waterfowl stamp series, which began with a Wood duck drake decoy in 1974, has raised over a million dollars for the conservation and management of key waterfowl lands. Arrangements for this cooperative international effort are handled through a partnership with Ducks Unlimited Inc.
Coppolo received a year of formal training at the New England School of Art in Boston. A draftsman by profession, Coppolo draws as a hobby, mostly depicting surrealistic landscapes with colored pencil. In addition to participating in the Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp contest, he is a past winner of the Massachusetts Archery/Primitive Arms contest. Gregg enjoys exploring woodlands on frequent walks and finds inspiration in the views of the White Mountains in New Hampshire.
Further awards designated by the judges were: Second Place- Bob Piscatori of Taunton, MA for his rendition of a Redhead carved by James Look. Third Place-Bob Piscatori of Taunton MA for a stick-up black duck by Gordon Mann. Honorable Mentions were awarded to Larry Denton, Fort Smith, TX for preening pintail Drake by A. Elmer Crowell and Jay B. Jones of Shreveport, LA for his painting of a Black-bellied Plover by Elisha Burr.
Coppolo and other decoy artists who submitted art for the waterfowl stamp competition were honored at a reception at the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) on September 11th. All qualifying entries into the competition will be on display as the 2008 Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Competition Art Exhibition at the Peabody-Essex Museum. In addition, the exhibition includes samples of award winning work from the 2007 Junior Duck Stamp Competition and a selection of decoys from the PEM collection. This exhibit is dedicated to the memory of Jackson Parker, decoy authority and devoted friend of the Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Program. The exhibit will be on display through September 26.
For more information on the Waterfowl Stamp Competition, call Ellie Horwitz at 508/389-6305. For information on the 2008 Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Competition Art Exhibition contact the Peabody Essex Museum at 978/745-9500.
WILDLIFE HABITAT FIELD DAYS FOR PRIVATE LANDOWNERS
Private landowners who want to actively manage their property's habitat for the benefit of wildlife are invited to attend one of several scheduled Field Days in September and October to tour a managed property, learn about wildlife habitat management techniques and tools and explore potential funding assistance. Individual landowners, land trusts, sportsmens clubs, municipalities and other conservation organizations are encouraged to attend and to consider applying for available wildlife habitat management funding through MassWildlife's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). All events are free of charge.
September 29, Chesterfield 10 am - 1 pm- This event is co-sponsored by MassWildlife, The Trustees of Reservations (TTOR) Highlands Communities Initiative, the Woodcock Initiative and the Ruffed Grouse Society. The event will be held at the Chesterfield Grange/Senior Center (Rte 143) for indoor presentations and will conclude with a field tour with a forester of a nearby managed site that is a participant in MassWildlife's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). Refreshments will be served. For more information and to register, contact the TTOR Highlands Communities Initiative at 413/268-8219.
October 6, Brimfield 1 pm - 3:30pm. This event will be hosted by MassWildlife and the Post 430 Sportsmens Club on the club grounds located at 8 St. George Rd. A short presentation about LIP and the club's management habitat project will be followed by a walk around the property to see what has been accomplished. Interested sportsmens clubs as well as other private landowners are encouraged to attend. For more details and to sign up, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator 508/389-6313.
October 8, Chilmark, Martha's Vineyard 1 pm- 3 pm. This event is co-hosted by MassWildlife, Chilmark Conservation Officer Rusty Walton and landowner Jane Wilkie. The event will be held at South Abel's Hill Rd. Refreshments will be served. We will be joined by Chris Politan of Politan Ecological Services to explain the work that has been accomplished along Doctor's Creek. For more details and to sign up, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator 508/389-6313.
October 13, Amherst, 10 am - Noon The event will be co-hosted MassWildlife and the federal Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) and landowners on the managed property at 1660 South East Street, Amherst. The project is being undertaken to enhance wildlife habitat for grassland birds and other wildlife with a goal to maintain the grasslands, prevent the growth of woody vegetation, and control invasive plants. Refreshments will be served. For more details and to sign up, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator 508/389-6313.
MassWildlife initiated the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) to engage private landowners in active wildlife habitat enhancement with funding from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. LIP is a cost sharing partnership that provides financial and technical assistance to private landowners interested in developing and maintaining wildlife habitat on their property. To date, ÂÂÂ108 projects from conservation organizations, sportsmen's clubs and individual landowners across the state have received LIP funding.
Through this program, MassWildlife has partnered with private landowners, conservation organizations, sportsmens clubs, and land trusts in an effort to maintain, restore or enhance wildlife habitat for the benefit of wildlife and the enjoyment of the Bay State's citizens. For more details about the Wildlife Habitat Field Days contact Ken MacKenzie at 508/389-6313 or visit the LIP web pages at: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/habitat/g...d_days.htm
DRIVERS, BRAKE FOR MOOSE!
The months of September and October are the peak of the breeding season for Massachusetts' growing moose population and motorists are reminded to be conscious of increased moose activity, especially during early morning and evening hours. Having no natural predators in Massachusetts and being protected by law from hunting, moose are unwary as they move through populated areas. During the mating season this indifference is magnified by the "tunnel-vision" created by the urge to reproduce. While moose can appear on virtually any roadway in the state, many are located in Worcester County. Be aware and heed "Moose Crossing" signs erected by MassHighway. Motorists are advised to slow down and drive defensively should a moose be spotted on or by the road. Police and other departments involved in moose/car collisions are reminded that while drivers are allowed by law to keep white-tailed deer they have hit, only MassWildlife or the Environmental Police can make decisions regarding the disposition of moose involved in vehicle collisions. All moose/vehicle collisions should be reported to MassWildlife. More information about moose may be found in the on MassWildlife's website at http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/wildlife/..._moose.htm.
FALL OUTDOORSWOMAN WORKSHOPS
This fall, two outdoor skills workshops for adult women will be offered through the Massachusetts Becoming an Outdoorswoman Program. Designed primarily for women, these workshops represent an opportunity for participants 18 years of age or older who may have never tried many traditional outdoor activities, but want to learn. Pre-registration is required. Registration materials are available on-line in the Education area of the MassWildlife website (www.mass.gov/masswildlife) or call 508/389-6329 to have registration materials faxed. Complete the registration form and send it in with a check as directed on the materials before the Refund Deadlines mentioned.
An Outdoorswomen on the Connecticut River Workshop is scheduled for October 13. This workshop will be a canoe trip on a segment of the Connecticut River leaving from the Turners Falls area. Trip leaders will share paddling skills and safety as well as interpret the river's natural history sightings during the trip. All boating equipment will be provided. The six mile river trip will conclude with a delicious outdoor lunch. Space is limited to 20 participants. Refund Deadline is October 2.
A Deer Hunting Workshop for Outdoorswomen consisting of a 1 day seminar and a 1 day deer hunt will be offered in November and December. Participants may choose to take part in one session or both. No previous hunting experience is required. First time participants are required to take the seminar segment if they want to participate in the Deer Hunt.
The Deer Hunting Seminar will be held on Saturday, November 3 at the Shirley Rod and Gun Club in Shirley. This seminar will provide information on deer ecology, behavior and deer management in Massachusetts. There will be an overview of deer hunting strategies and an opportunity to check your hunting gear and to sight in your shotgun with expert assistance. Cost includes instruction, materials and lunch. Space is unlimited for the seminar.
The Deer Hunt will be held on Saturday December 1 at the Devens RFTA. Hunt participants must have a shotgun, valid Massachusetts hunting or sporting license and proper gun license. An antlerless deer permit for Zone 9 is not essential but useful. Cost includes guide service, field assistance and a light lunch and dinner. Space is limited to 20 participants.
UPCOMING MEETINGS-
The September meeting of the Fisheries & Wildlife Board will be held on Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 1:30 p.m.at the Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stage Road.
The next meeting of the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee will be on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 1:30 PM at the MassWildlife Field Headquarters in Westborough.
Both meetings are open to the public.
NEWS & NOTES-Fall Trout Stocking, Paddling a Kayak or Canoe? Wear Your Lifejacket!, Deer Hunting Opportunity For Paraplegic Hunters, Calendar of Events
Fall Trout Stocking--Autumn anglers know that fall trout stocking is just around the corner. A total of 65,400 fish (61,400 rainbow and 4,000 brown trout) averaging 12 inches or more in length have been allocated among the five MassWildlife Districts across the state. The fish are produced at MassWildlife hatcheries in Sandwich, Belchertown and Montague. District staff will be monitoring air and water temperatures over the next few weeks to determine when fall trout stocking will begin. Stocking may begin no earlier than the week of September 24 and barring any problems, will be completed by the middle of October. The Trout Stocked Waters List located on the MassWildlife website www.masswildlife.org identifies all fall stocked waterbodies. Anglers are advised to contact the District office in their area to determine when stocking occurs. Northeast, Acton--978/263-4347; Southeast, Bourne--508/759-3406; Central, W. Boylston--508/835-3607; Valley, Belchertown--413/323-7632; Western, Pittsfield--413/447-9789.
Paddling a Kayak or Canoe? Wear Your Lifejacket!--People in kayaks and canoes are reminded that from September 15 - May 15 paddlers must wear their personal flotation device (PFD). According to the Massachusetts Environmental Police, most boating fatalities in Massachusetts are due to failure to wear lifejackets while in small craft in cold water or cold weather situations. Waterfowl hunters using canoes or kayaks are reminded that this law also applies to them.
Deer Hunting Opportunity For Paraplegic Hunters--Every year, MassWildlife offers the opportunity for paraplegic sportsmen and sportswomen to hunt deer in several locations across the state during a special three day season. This year's hunt dates are November 1-3. Locations have included Devens, Quabbin Park and two locations in Berkshire County. Paraplegic sportsmen and women with an interest in participating in this hunt should contact Trina Moruzzi at 508/389-6318 for more details.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS -- Complete listing, at www.mass.gov/masswildlife, click on Calendar/Events
September 23 -- MassWildlife at Freetown State Forest Fun in the Forest Day, Assonet - Bring your family or friends are invited to Freetown State Forest from 11AM - 4PM to enjoy the Terry Rand Band, Rock Wall Climbing, Trader Jan's Archery, MassWildlife, Scavenger Hunt, field games and more! Special presentation will include a reptile show, birds of prey from Wingmasters and Mad Science! DCR District Fire Control & Smokey Bear will be visiting too! For more information, call 508/995-1335 or 508/672-2417 or visit the DCR Events weblink.
September 29-October 9 -- MassWildlife at the Topsfield Fair, Topsfield--MassWildlife will be staffing a booth in the Wildlife and Sportsmen's Building at the Topsfield Fair. This year's display will feature a beaver dam, water flow device (beaver deciever), beaver information, and other common wildlife species. Pick up an Animal Track card or an Outdoor Recreation Map for your next wildlife adventure!
September 30 --11th Annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo for Families, Sturbridge--Families, friends, Scouts and other youth groups are invited to join the fun at the 11th annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo (Big MOE) from 9AM - 4:00 PM held at the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club grounds, off New Boston Road, in Sturbridge. The Big MOE, sponsored by Facts About Wildlife and Nature Society (FAWNS), is a free, family oriented event celebrating Outdoor Skills, Nature, Art & Animals. This all day family event is free thanks to co-sponsors including MassWildlife, Hamilton Rod and Gun Club, The Weatherby Foundation and a new media sponsor, 100 FM. The Pike (WWFX, Worcester). A number of sportsmens clubs, locally based outdoor related businesses, and other conservation groups sponsor a variety of skills stations, craft tables and other exhibits relating to wildlife and the outdoors. Try fishing, safe target shooting, building a bird box, climbing a rock wall or using a map and compass and more! For more information, visit www.fawnsociety.com .
October 1-21 -- Quack, quack! Junior Duck Stamp Traveling Art Exhibit at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newburyport--Bring your family to see top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest. The Duck Stamp contest is modeled after the adult versions of both the state and federal duck stamp competitions. School age youth (K-12) are encouraged to learn about waterfowl and the importance of wetlands through this conservation contest. Sponsored by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, Mass. Waterfowler's Association Ducks Unlimited-Mass Chapter, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. For more information on the Junior Duck Stamp Program, contact Pam Landry, MassWildlife Education Coordinator. For further information on the exhibit, contact: Kate Toniolo at 978/ 465-5753 x 210.
The Massachusetts waterfowl stamp is the only waterfowl stamp series in the country requiring designs to be of working decoys - ducks, geese or shorebirds - made by deceased Massachusetts decoy makers. Coppolo's artwork will be reproduced on Massachusetts' 2008 waterfowl stamp which will go on sale in December of 2007. The $5.00 stamp is required of all waterfowl hunters. Revenues from the sale of the stamp fund projects that enhance waterfowl habitat both in Massachusetts and in the Canadian Maritime Provinces which provide critical breeding habitat for ducks and geese that winter in the Commonwealth. Stamp collectors and other conservationists also purchase these stamps for their beauty and to assist in the wetland conservation. The Massachusetts Waterfowl stamp series, which began with a Wood duck drake decoy in 1974, has raised over a million dollars for the conservation and management of key waterfowl lands. Arrangements for this cooperative international effort are handled through a partnership with Ducks Unlimited Inc.
Coppolo received a year of formal training at the New England School of Art in Boston. A draftsman by profession, Coppolo draws as a hobby, mostly depicting surrealistic landscapes with colored pencil. In addition to participating in the Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp contest, he is a past winner of the Massachusetts Archery/Primitive Arms contest. Gregg enjoys exploring woodlands on frequent walks and finds inspiration in the views of the White Mountains in New Hampshire.
Further awards designated by the judges were: Second Place- Bob Piscatori of Taunton, MA for his rendition of a Redhead carved by James Look. Third Place-Bob Piscatori of Taunton MA for a stick-up black duck by Gordon Mann. Honorable Mentions were awarded to Larry Denton, Fort Smith, TX for preening pintail Drake by A. Elmer Crowell and Jay B. Jones of Shreveport, LA for his painting of a Black-bellied Plover by Elisha Burr.
Coppolo and other decoy artists who submitted art for the waterfowl stamp competition were honored at a reception at the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) on September 11th. All qualifying entries into the competition will be on display as the 2008 Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Competition Art Exhibition at the Peabody-Essex Museum. In addition, the exhibition includes samples of award winning work from the 2007 Junior Duck Stamp Competition and a selection of decoys from the PEM collection. This exhibit is dedicated to the memory of Jackson Parker, decoy authority and devoted friend of the Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Program. The exhibit will be on display through September 26.
For more information on the Waterfowl Stamp Competition, call Ellie Horwitz at 508/389-6305. For information on the 2008 Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp Competition Art Exhibition contact the Peabody Essex Museum at 978/745-9500.
WILDLIFE HABITAT FIELD DAYS FOR PRIVATE LANDOWNERS
Private landowners who want to actively manage their property's habitat for the benefit of wildlife are invited to attend one of several scheduled Field Days in September and October to tour a managed property, learn about wildlife habitat management techniques and tools and explore potential funding assistance. Individual landowners, land trusts, sportsmens clubs, municipalities and other conservation organizations are encouraged to attend and to consider applying for available wildlife habitat management funding through MassWildlife's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). All events are free of charge.
September 29, Chesterfield 10 am - 1 pm- This event is co-sponsored by MassWildlife, The Trustees of Reservations (TTOR) Highlands Communities Initiative, the Woodcock Initiative and the Ruffed Grouse Society. The event will be held at the Chesterfield Grange/Senior Center (Rte 143) for indoor presentations and will conclude with a field tour with a forester of a nearby managed site that is a participant in MassWildlife's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). Refreshments will be served. For more information and to register, contact the TTOR Highlands Communities Initiative at 413/268-8219.
October 6, Brimfield 1 pm - 3:30pm. This event will be hosted by MassWildlife and the Post 430 Sportsmens Club on the club grounds located at 8 St. George Rd. A short presentation about LIP and the club's management habitat project will be followed by a walk around the property to see what has been accomplished. Interested sportsmens clubs as well as other private landowners are encouraged to attend. For more details and to sign up, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator 508/389-6313.
October 8, Chilmark, Martha's Vineyard 1 pm- 3 pm. This event is co-hosted by MassWildlife, Chilmark Conservation Officer Rusty Walton and landowner Jane Wilkie. The event will be held at South Abel's Hill Rd. Refreshments will be served. We will be joined by Chris Politan of Politan Ecological Services to explain the work that has been accomplished along Doctor's Creek. For more details and to sign up, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator 508/389-6313.
October 13, Amherst, 10 am - Noon The event will be co-hosted MassWildlife and the federal Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) and landowners on the managed property at 1660 South East Street, Amherst. The project is being undertaken to enhance wildlife habitat for grassland birds and other wildlife with a goal to maintain the grasslands, prevent the growth of woody vegetation, and control invasive plants. Refreshments will be served. For more details and to sign up, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator 508/389-6313.
MassWildlife initiated the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) to engage private landowners in active wildlife habitat enhancement with funding from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. LIP is a cost sharing partnership that provides financial and technical assistance to private landowners interested in developing and maintaining wildlife habitat on their property. To date, ÂÂÂ108 projects from conservation organizations, sportsmen's clubs and individual landowners across the state have received LIP funding.
Through this program, MassWildlife has partnered with private landowners, conservation organizations, sportsmens clubs, and land trusts in an effort to maintain, restore or enhance wildlife habitat for the benefit of wildlife and the enjoyment of the Bay State's citizens. For more details about the Wildlife Habitat Field Days contact Ken MacKenzie at 508/389-6313 or visit the LIP web pages at: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/habitat/g...d_days.htm
DRIVERS, BRAKE FOR MOOSE!
The months of September and October are the peak of the breeding season for Massachusetts' growing moose population and motorists are reminded to be conscious of increased moose activity, especially during early morning and evening hours. Having no natural predators in Massachusetts and being protected by law from hunting, moose are unwary as they move through populated areas. During the mating season this indifference is magnified by the "tunnel-vision" created by the urge to reproduce. While moose can appear on virtually any roadway in the state, many are located in Worcester County. Be aware and heed "Moose Crossing" signs erected by MassHighway. Motorists are advised to slow down and drive defensively should a moose be spotted on or by the road. Police and other departments involved in moose/car collisions are reminded that while drivers are allowed by law to keep white-tailed deer they have hit, only MassWildlife or the Environmental Police can make decisions regarding the disposition of moose involved in vehicle collisions. All moose/vehicle collisions should be reported to MassWildlife. More information about moose may be found in the on MassWildlife's website at http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/wildlife/..._moose.htm.
FALL OUTDOORSWOMAN WORKSHOPS
This fall, two outdoor skills workshops for adult women will be offered through the Massachusetts Becoming an Outdoorswoman Program. Designed primarily for women, these workshops represent an opportunity for participants 18 years of age or older who may have never tried many traditional outdoor activities, but want to learn. Pre-registration is required. Registration materials are available on-line in the Education area of the MassWildlife website (www.mass.gov/masswildlife) or call 508/389-6329 to have registration materials faxed. Complete the registration form and send it in with a check as directed on the materials before the Refund Deadlines mentioned.
An Outdoorswomen on the Connecticut River Workshop is scheduled for October 13. This workshop will be a canoe trip on a segment of the Connecticut River leaving from the Turners Falls area. Trip leaders will share paddling skills and safety as well as interpret the river's natural history sightings during the trip. All boating equipment will be provided. The six mile river trip will conclude with a delicious outdoor lunch. Space is limited to 20 participants. Refund Deadline is October 2.
A Deer Hunting Workshop for Outdoorswomen consisting of a 1 day seminar and a 1 day deer hunt will be offered in November and December. Participants may choose to take part in one session or both. No previous hunting experience is required. First time participants are required to take the seminar segment if they want to participate in the Deer Hunt.
The Deer Hunting Seminar will be held on Saturday, November 3 at the Shirley Rod and Gun Club in Shirley. This seminar will provide information on deer ecology, behavior and deer management in Massachusetts. There will be an overview of deer hunting strategies and an opportunity to check your hunting gear and to sight in your shotgun with expert assistance. Cost includes instruction, materials and lunch. Space is unlimited for the seminar.
The Deer Hunt will be held on Saturday December 1 at the Devens RFTA. Hunt participants must have a shotgun, valid Massachusetts hunting or sporting license and proper gun license. An antlerless deer permit for Zone 9 is not essential but useful. Cost includes guide service, field assistance and a light lunch and dinner. Space is limited to 20 participants.
UPCOMING MEETINGS-
The September meeting of the Fisheries & Wildlife Board will be held on Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 1:30 p.m.at the Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stage Road.
The next meeting of the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee will be on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 1:30 PM at the MassWildlife Field Headquarters in Westborough.
Both meetings are open to the public.
NEWS & NOTES-Fall Trout Stocking, Paddling a Kayak or Canoe? Wear Your Lifejacket!, Deer Hunting Opportunity For Paraplegic Hunters, Calendar of Events
Fall Trout Stocking--Autumn anglers know that fall trout stocking is just around the corner. A total of 65,400 fish (61,400 rainbow and 4,000 brown trout) averaging 12 inches or more in length have been allocated among the five MassWildlife Districts across the state. The fish are produced at MassWildlife hatcheries in Sandwich, Belchertown and Montague. District staff will be monitoring air and water temperatures over the next few weeks to determine when fall trout stocking will begin. Stocking may begin no earlier than the week of September 24 and barring any problems, will be completed by the middle of October. The Trout Stocked Waters List located on the MassWildlife website www.masswildlife.org identifies all fall stocked waterbodies. Anglers are advised to contact the District office in their area to determine when stocking occurs. Northeast, Acton--978/263-4347; Southeast, Bourne--508/759-3406; Central, W. Boylston--508/835-3607; Valley, Belchertown--413/323-7632; Western, Pittsfield--413/447-9789.
Paddling a Kayak or Canoe? Wear Your Lifejacket!--People in kayaks and canoes are reminded that from September 15 - May 15 paddlers must wear their personal flotation device (PFD). According to the Massachusetts Environmental Police, most boating fatalities in Massachusetts are due to failure to wear lifejackets while in small craft in cold water or cold weather situations. Waterfowl hunters using canoes or kayaks are reminded that this law also applies to them.
Deer Hunting Opportunity For Paraplegic Hunters--Every year, MassWildlife offers the opportunity for paraplegic sportsmen and sportswomen to hunt deer in several locations across the state during a special three day season. This year's hunt dates are November 1-3. Locations have included Devens, Quabbin Park and two locations in Berkshire County. Paraplegic sportsmen and women with an interest in participating in this hunt should contact Trina Moruzzi at 508/389-6318 for more details.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS -- Complete listing, at www.mass.gov/masswildlife, click on Calendar/Events
September 23 -- MassWildlife at Freetown State Forest Fun in the Forest Day, Assonet - Bring your family or friends are invited to Freetown State Forest from 11AM - 4PM to enjoy the Terry Rand Band, Rock Wall Climbing, Trader Jan's Archery, MassWildlife, Scavenger Hunt, field games and more! Special presentation will include a reptile show, birds of prey from Wingmasters and Mad Science! DCR District Fire Control & Smokey Bear will be visiting too! For more information, call 508/995-1335 or 508/672-2417 or visit the DCR Events weblink.
September 29-October 9 -- MassWildlife at the Topsfield Fair, Topsfield--MassWildlife will be staffing a booth in the Wildlife and Sportsmen's Building at the Topsfield Fair. This year's display will feature a beaver dam, water flow device (beaver deciever), beaver information, and other common wildlife species. Pick up an Animal Track card or an Outdoor Recreation Map for your next wildlife adventure!
September 30 --11th Annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo for Families, Sturbridge--Families, friends, Scouts and other youth groups are invited to join the fun at the 11th annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo (Big MOE) from 9AM - 4:00 PM held at the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club grounds, off New Boston Road, in Sturbridge. The Big MOE, sponsored by Facts About Wildlife and Nature Society (FAWNS), is a free, family oriented event celebrating Outdoor Skills, Nature, Art & Animals. This all day family event is free thanks to co-sponsors including MassWildlife, Hamilton Rod and Gun Club, The Weatherby Foundation and a new media sponsor, 100 FM. The Pike (WWFX, Worcester). A number of sportsmens clubs, locally based outdoor related businesses, and other conservation groups sponsor a variety of skills stations, craft tables and other exhibits relating to wildlife and the outdoors. Try fishing, safe target shooting, building a bird box, climbing a rock wall or using a map and compass and more! For more information, visit www.fawnsociety.com .
October 1-21 -- Quack, quack! Junior Duck Stamp Traveling Art Exhibit at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newburyport--Bring your family to see top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest. The Duck Stamp contest is modeled after the adult versions of both the state and federal duck stamp competitions. School age youth (K-12) are encouraged to learn about waterfowl and the importance of wetlands through this conservation contest. Sponsored by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, Mass. Waterfowler's Association Ducks Unlimited-Mass Chapter, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. For more information on the Junior Duck Stamp Program, contact Pam Landry, MassWildlife Education Coordinator. For further information on the exhibit, contact: Kate Toniolo at 978/ 465-5753 x 210.