By Andrew Wigger
Indian Creek Phase One (Indian Creek Restoration Initiative) began in 2004 when a partnership of local, state and federal agencies, conservation organizations and private landowners came together to restore, enhance and protect 16,000 acres of wildlife habitats on national forest and private land in Newberry County.
“Technical and financial assistance through USDA’s Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program and National Forest Foundation grants were used to implement conservation practices such as pine stand thinning, prescribed burning, native warm season grass establishment and eradication of invasive species,” said Stacie Henry with Newberry County Natural Resources Conservation Services.
Some of the partners included, but were not limited to, the NRCS, Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest, SC Forestry Commission, S.C. Department of Natural Resources, Quail Forever and the Newberry County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Indian Creek Phase Two began two years ago with a proposal that was funded and brought back together with the unique partnership of friends who share the common thread of enhancing the quail population, according to Henry.
Phase Two has grown to include Union County and more areas in Newberry County, taking this project phase to 40,000 acres.
Read the rest of the NewberryObserver article
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
HIRING BIOLOGIST PROGRAM SPECIALIST (Quail Program Coordinator): Arkansas
Agency
Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
Location
Negotiable
Job Category
Full time Positions
Website
http://www.arstatejobs.com/
Salary
$43,217 annually
Last Date to Apply
October 3, 2016
Description
AGFC BIOLOGIST PROGRAM SPECIALIST (Quail Program Coordinator)
POSITION NO. 22164583
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT DIVISION
CLASS SUMMARY:
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) Biologist Program Specialist is responsible for the management and life processes of fish, wildlife, and their habitats; collecting and analyzing biological data; and, specializing in fish and wildlife research, management, husbandry, and/or habitat management. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.
SPECIAL JOB DIMENSIONS:
Frequent in-state travel required.
TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:
Provides program and project supervision by developing program curriculums, monitoring facilities and personnel, and coordinating program maintenance and protocols. Makes recommendations on management, regulation, and planning of fish and wildlife populations and habitats, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options. Studies characteristics of fish and wildlife, such as population dynamics, life histories, diseases, genetics, and distribution. Prepares collections of preserved specimens or microscopic slides for species identification and study of development or disease. Implements state and federal preventative programs to monitor and control fish and wildlife diseases and invasive, exotic species. Disseminates information by writing reports and making presentations to schools, clubs, interest groups, and agency administration. Promotes hunting and fishing through a variety of outreach programs. Directs the operation and maintenance of various public lands, waters, and/or fish propagation facilities, based on program management plans. May testify as an expert witness in legal proceedings. Performs other duties as assigned.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provides statewide intra-and interagency leadership and coordination regarding AGFC’s management/research activities for quail. Primarily coordinates division and agency quail management and research/survey programs including but not limited to the following: gathers and analyzes baseline data on the distribution, trends, and abundance of quail. Develops and implements monitoring programs to track and evaluate population changes and impacts of management programs. Leads an interdivisional team in implementing and updating long range strategic and operational plans for quail. Develops research projects and oversees contracts for cooperative research projects. Coordinates with private companies, other state agencies, landowners, federal agencies and other AGFC agency staff in the statewide management of quail and their habitat. Develops annual statewide quail harvest/hunting regulation recommendations. Coordinates statewide data collection. Emphasis will be placed on a habitat-based approach to statewide quail restoration including a focus on the beneficial impacts to all early-successional species including grassland songbirds. Conducts technical in-service training for agency field personnel on research/survey procedures and management techniques. Presents educational programs to schools, civic groups, sportsmen’s groups, the Commission and agency staff. Prepares technical presentations and scientific papers on quail management for professional meetings. Serves as Arkansas’s representative on state, regional and national committees involving quail management. Writes news releases and magazine articles and participates in television and radio shows. Performs administrative duties including but not limited to the following: develops and manages program budgets. Administers federal, state and private research, and conservation grants. Supervision of employee (s). Develops and maintains databases. Writes project reports and in-service documents. Other duties will be carried out as assigned. This position has statewide duties and will involve some overnight travel both in and out-of-state. Frequent field work with exposure to inclement weather is required. Occasional exposure to hunters and dangerous animals may be required.
All applicants subject to a criminal background check.
Qualifications
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, botany, or a related field; plus three years of experience in biology, wildlife management, or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.
PREFERRED MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
A master’s degree in wildlife management, biology, zoology, or a related field, ideally with a thesis on Northern Bobwhite. Experience in wildlife management/research dealing with Northern Bobwhite. Experience in a leadership capacity is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:
Knowledge of the principles of biology, ecology, and related environmental sciences. Knowledge of methods and techniques of scientific testing, data collection, and analysis. Knowledge of the effects of pollution on plants, fish, animals, and human life. Knowledge of fish/wildlife management programs, including propagation, cultivation, and harvesting techniques. Knowledge of wildlife/fish management laboratory techniques, equipment, and procedures. Ability to communicate in oral and written forms. Ability to make public presentations. Ability to conduct scientific wildlife and/or fish surveys/studies, analyze and evaluate collected data, and prepare written narrative reports of findings. Ability to direct, coordinate, and maintain wildlife and/or fish management programs. Ability to operate and maintain fishery and wildlife equipment.
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:
Strong interest in and knowledge of the biology, ecology, and management of Northern Bobwhite. Knowledge of Northern Bobwhite habitat requirements and habitat management techniques is essential. Knowledge of Northern Bobwhite trapping, banding, survey, and research techniques. Must be proficient with a variety of computer software applications including ArcView/ArcGIS/ArcMap, Microsoft. The ability to work efficiently and effectively with others within and outside the agency (e.g., USFWS, USFS, NRCS, FSA, etc.) as well as independently, and be able to prioritize a heavy and varied workload. Possess effective organizational, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to facilitate large and diverse groups to accomplish large goals.
Applicants may apply online at www.arstatejobs.com.
Applications must include complete work history and references. Applications will be accepted via online, US mail or fax (501-223-6444) and must be received by 4:30 p.m. on October 3, 2016.
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Attn: Human Resources Division
2 Natural Resources Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205
“AS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, THE COMMISSION WILL MAKE ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS NECESSARY TO ENSURE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES”
ADVERTISED IN-HOUSE AND AR GOVERNMENT JOBS WEBSITE
Read the full Original Post
Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
Location
Negotiable
Job Category
Full time Positions
Website
http://www.arstatejobs.com/
Salary
$43,217 annually
Last Date to Apply
October 3, 2016
Description
AGFC BIOLOGIST PROGRAM SPECIALIST (Quail Program Coordinator)
POSITION NO. 22164583
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT DIVISION
CLASS SUMMARY:
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) Biologist Program Specialist is responsible for the management and life processes of fish, wildlife, and their habitats; collecting and analyzing biological data; and, specializing in fish and wildlife research, management, husbandry, and/or habitat management. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.
SPECIAL JOB DIMENSIONS:
Frequent in-state travel required.
TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:
Provides program and project supervision by developing program curriculums, monitoring facilities and personnel, and coordinating program maintenance and protocols. Makes recommendations on management, regulation, and planning of fish and wildlife populations and habitats, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options. Studies characteristics of fish and wildlife, such as population dynamics, life histories, diseases, genetics, and distribution. Prepares collections of preserved specimens or microscopic slides for species identification and study of development or disease. Implements state and federal preventative programs to monitor and control fish and wildlife diseases and invasive, exotic species. Disseminates information by writing reports and making presentations to schools, clubs, interest groups, and agency administration. Promotes hunting and fishing through a variety of outreach programs. Directs the operation and maintenance of various public lands, waters, and/or fish propagation facilities, based on program management plans. May testify as an expert witness in legal proceedings. Performs other duties as assigned.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provides statewide intra-and interagency leadership and coordination regarding AGFC’s management/research activities for quail. Primarily coordinates division and agency quail management and research/survey programs including but not limited to the following: gathers and analyzes baseline data on the distribution, trends, and abundance of quail. Develops and implements monitoring programs to track and evaluate population changes and impacts of management programs. Leads an interdivisional team in implementing and updating long range strategic and operational plans for quail. Develops research projects and oversees contracts for cooperative research projects. Coordinates with private companies, other state agencies, landowners, federal agencies and other AGFC agency staff in the statewide management of quail and their habitat. Develops annual statewide quail harvest/hunting regulation recommendations. Coordinates statewide data collection. Emphasis will be placed on a habitat-based approach to statewide quail restoration including a focus on the beneficial impacts to all early-successional species including grassland songbirds. Conducts technical in-service training for agency field personnel on research/survey procedures and management techniques. Presents educational programs to schools, civic groups, sportsmen’s groups, the Commission and agency staff. Prepares technical presentations and scientific papers on quail management for professional meetings. Serves as Arkansas’s representative on state, regional and national committees involving quail management. Writes news releases and magazine articles and participates in television and radio shows. Performs administrative duties including but not limited to the following: develops and manages program budgets. Administers federal, state and private research, and conservation grants. Supervision of employee (s). Develops and maintains databases. Writes project reports and in-service documents. Other duties will be carried out as assigned. This position has statewide duties and will involve some overnight travel both in and out-of-state. Frequent field work with exposure to inclement weather is required. Occasional exposure to hunters and dangerous animals may be required.
All applicants subject to a criminal background check.
Qualifications
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, botany, or a related field; plus three years of experience in biology, wildlife management, or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.
PREFERRED MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
A master’s degree in wildlife management, biology, zoology, or a related field, ideally with a thesis on Northern Bobwhite. Experience in wildlife management/research dealing with Northern Bobwhite. Experience in a leadership capacity is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:
Knowledge of the principles of biology, ecology, and related environmental sciences. Knowledge of methods and techniques of scientific testing, data collection, and analysis. Knowledge of the effects of pollution on plants, fish, animals, and human life. Knowledge of fish/wildlife management programs, including propagation, cultivation, and harvesting techniques. Knowledge of wildlife/fish management laboratory techniques, equipment, and procedures. Ability to communicate in oral and written forms. Ability to make public presentations. Ability to conduct scientific wildlife and/or fish surveys/studies, analyze and evaluate collected data, and prepare written narrative reports of findings. Ability to direct, coordinate, and maintain wildlife and/or fish management programs. Ability to operate and maintain fishery and wildlife equipment.
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:
Strong interest in and knowledge of the biology, ecology, and management of Northern Bobwhite. Knowledge of Northern Bobwhite habitat requirements and habitat management techniques is essential. Knowledge of Northern Bobwhite trapping, banding, survey, and research techniques. Must be proficient with a variety of computer software applications including ArcView/ArcGIS/ArcMap, Microsoft. The ability to work efficiently and effectively with others within and outside the agency (e.g., USFWS, USFS, NRCS, FSA, etc.) as well as independently, and be able to prioritize a heavy and varied workload. Possess effective organizational, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to facilitate large and diverse groups to accomplish large goals.
Applicants may apply online at www.arstatejobs.com.
Applications must include complete work history and references. Applications will be accepted via online, US mail or fax (501-223-6444) and must be received by 4:30 p.m. on October 3, 2016.
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Attn: Human Resources Division
2 Natural Resources Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205
“AS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, THE COMMISSION WILL MAKE ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS NECESSARY TO ENSURE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES”
ADVERTISED IN-HOUSE AND AR GOVERNMENT JOBS WEBSITE
Read the full Original Post
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Kansas 2016 quail populations good official forecast says
BY MICHAEL PEARCE
mpearce@wichitaeagle.com
This year Kansas quail hunters should have one of their best seasons in the past 20 to 30 years. Last year the average number of quail bagged per hunter day, 1.7 birds, was the highest it’s been since before 2000. Thanks go to an unlikely ally.
“One thing I’m pretty adamant about is that the same drought that brought us a big decline a few years ago is what’s making it good again,” Prendergast said. “A lot of the pastures really got beat up and that brought on a lot of the weeds quail need. It created some excellent production conditions and that seems to continue.”
South-central Kansas will probably have the best hunting for quail this season, particularly the areas with a lot of prairie. That could include areas south and west of Pratt, plus some areas of sandhills prairie north of there, too. Areas with similar habitat in southwest Kansas are expected to have good numbers of quail, too. North-central Kansas should have more quail this season.
Flint Hills quail populations, which have been strong the past two seasons, may be down slightly but Prendergast said he’s still pleased with the region’s quail densities.
Read more here: http://www.kansas.com/sports/outdoors/article101099227.html#storylink=cpy
mpearce@wichitaeagle.com
This year Kansas quail hunters should have one of their best seasons in the past 20 to 30 years. Last year the average number of quail bagged per hunter day, 1.7 birds, was the highest it’s been since before 2000. Thanks go to an unlikely ally.
“One thing I’m pretty adamant about is that the same drought that brought us a big decline a few years ago is what’s making it good again,” Prendergast said. “A lot of the pastures really got beat up and that brought on a lot of the weeds quail need. It created some excellent production conditions and that seems to continue.”
South-central Kansas will probably have the best hunting for quail this season, particularly the areas with a lot of prairie. That could include areas south and west of Pratt, plus some areas of sandhills prairie north of there, too. Areas with similar habitat in southwest Kansas are expected to have good numbers of quail, too. North-central Kansas should have more quail this season.
Flint Hills quail populations, which have been strong the past two seasons, may be down slightly but Prendergast said he’s still pleased with the region’s quail densities.
Read more here: http://www.kansas.com/sports/outdoors/article101099227.html#storylink=cpy
Texas 2016 Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch’s 9th annual field day is set from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 30.
The ranch is 11 miles west of Roby on U.S. Highway 180, or just east of the intersection of Farm-to-Market 611 and U.S. Highway 180.
“Our theme for this year is Can We Insulate this Quail Boom?,” said Dr. Dale Rollins, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service wildlife specialist at San Angelo and the ranch’s executive director.
Rollins, who is also AgriLife Extension’s coordinator for the ongoing Reversing the Decline of Quail state initiative, said this year’s quail crop looks to be better than what he calls the “jubilee year” experienced in 2015.
“It’s pretty incredible to see back-to-back boom years like we’ve experienced recently,” he said. “But our most recent counts are up by 20 percent over last year’s bumper crop. Now the question becomes, how long can we ‘insulate’ the birds and sustain the good times?”
The field day will feature tour stops addressing prescribed burning, prickly pear management for quail, ongoing research efforts and managing for monarch butterflies.
Two Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units will be available for private applicators.
Registration is $10 due upon arrival. The fee includes refreshments and lunch. Participants are encouraged to RSVP for meal planning purposes to Mary Lynn Nelms at 325-653-4576.
The field day is sponsored by the Reversing the Decline of Quail initiative, Dow AgroSciences and the Rolling Plains Quail Research Foundation.
For more information on the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch, see www.quailresearch.org .
“Our theme for this year is Can We Insulate this Quail Boom?,” said Dr. Dale Rollins, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service wildlife specialist at San Angelo and the ranch’s executive director.
Rollins, who is also AgriLife Extension’s coordinator for the ongoing Reversing the Decline of Quail state initiative, said this year’s quail crop looks to be better than what he calls the “jubilee year” experienced in 2015.
“It’s pretty incredible to see back-to-back boom years like we’ve experienced recently,” he said. “But our most recent counts are up by 20 percent over last year’s bumper crop. Now the question becomes, how long can we ‘insulate’ the birds and sustain the good times?”
The field day will feature tour stops addressing prescribed burning, prickly pear management for quail, ongoing research efforts and managing for monarch butterflies.
Two Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units will be available for private applicators.
Registration is $10 due upon arrival. The fee includes refreshments and lunch. Participants are encouraged to RSVP for meal planning purposes to Mary Lynn Nelms at 325-653-4576.
The field day is sponsored by the Reversing the Decline of Quail initiative, Dow AgroSciences and the Rolling Plains Quail Research Foundation.
For more information on the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch, see www.quailresearch.org .
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Hiring - Northern Bobwhite Quail Internship (Fall): Florida
Agency
Tall Timbers Research Station
Location
Tallahassee, FL
Job Category
Internships
Website
http://www.talltimbers.org
Salary
$230/week. Housing and utilities are provided.
Start Date
09/01/2016
Last Date to Apply
09/01/2016
Description
The game bird program at Tall Timbers Research Station is looking for individual(s) to assist with northern bobwhite quail research. Duties will include, capturing and wing tagging chicks, trapping and attaching radio transmitters on bobwhites, tracking quail using radio telemetry, data entry, assisting in a small mammal trapping census, taking part in covey call surveys, helping with predator sent stations, taking part in a bi-weekly hawk survey and assisting in other various duties.
Qualifications
•Must have or be working towards a B.S. in wildlife ecology or related field.
•valid driver’s license and must have a good driving record
•Experience with telemetry is preferred but not required
•Must be able and willing to work long and odd hours
•Must be comfortable working alone in the dark (trapping occurs at night)
Contact Person
Cassie Griffith
Contact eMail
Cassandra@ttrs.org
See the full posting
Tall Timbers Research Station
Location
Tallahassee, FL
Job Category
Internships
Website
http://www.talltimbers.org
Salary
$230/week. Housing and utilities are provided.
Start Date
09/01/2016
Last Date to Apply
09/01/2016
Description
The game bird program at Tall Timbers Research Station is looking for individual(s) to assist with northern bobwhite quail research. Duties will include, capturing and wing tagging chicks, trapping and attaching radio transmitters on bobwhites, tracking quail using radio telemetry, data entry, assisting in a small mammal trapping census, taking part in covey call surveys, helping with predator sent stations, taking part in a bi-weekly hawk survey and assisting in other various duties.
Qualifications
•Must have or be working towards a B.S. in wildlife ecology or related field.
•valid driver’s license and must have a good driving record
•Experience with telemetry is preferred but not required
•Must be able and willing to work long and odd hours
•Must be comfortable working alone in the dark (trapping occurs at night)
Contact Person
Cassie Griffith
Contact eMail
Cassandra@ttrs.org
See the full posting
Monday, August 22, 2016
AZ January Mearns Quail Hunt - Video
Today we got to go hunting with Mark from Facey Kennels http://www.faceykennels.com. He and a friend from Colorado and a friend from Arizona went with my brother and I on a Mearns Quail Hunt in Southern Arizona. It was awesome to see all the dogs out there working. We had 11 Pointers, 1 Drahthaar and 1 English Setter. We didn't hunt them all at once but we usually had 5 dogs out on each walk. Hope you enjoy some of the highlights that we were able to catch on video.
Friday, August 19, 2016
2016 Oklahoma Quail hunting outlook has hunters' heads in the clouds
By KELLY BOSTIAN
With last season’s population boom fresh on the minds of many and calls already coming to the Department, Johnson pointed out that it’s still too early to know what may happen with the quail population said hunters may find clues for themselves by considering habitat conditions and weather patterns.
He stated: “In general, quail booms can occur when low to moderate nesting-season temperatures are combined with ample rainfall, especially when these occur in consecutive years. Even during years of moderate to high rainfall, quail production can be quite poor if the temperatures are extreme. Moderately good quail production is still possible even during dry years if temperatures remain cool. However, years with exceptional heat and drought, like Oklahoma experienced during 2011 and 2012, will nearly always result in poor quail production.”
To drive home the importance of weather for quail, Johnson posted a chart to illustrate the differences in temperatures and rainfall between the bad quail production year of 2012 and the booming quail year of 2015.
Other factors come into play, of course. Consecutive years of poor production can compound the problem, he said.
“Likewise, consecutive years of good to excellent production can boost quail numbers to population levels that haven’t been observed in quite some time.”
“Sometimes, a year of excellent quail production and habitat condition can help buffer the impacts the following year ...” he stated.
This is brilliants stuff. Rather than hazarding a guess, he has turned hunters back to the countryside to consider what they see in front of them and exercise habitat-based vocabulary looking toward the season ahead.
Will 2016-17 be the year that moderate conditions followed the excellent conditions of 2015 with population and habitat carry-over that led to another population boost?
It’s looking that way. Anyone who has been outdoors the past month knows that 2016 has had many more days over 100 degrees than 2015. The chart provided by Johnson shows, for example, rainfall in the Northwest of 11.3 inches April-October in 2012 compared to 29.7 in 2015.
A quick check of the Oklahoma Mesonet for the past 120 days showed an average of about 12 inches in the Northwest region.
It’s been hotter, and there has been less rain, but there has been carryover.
“The key now is to monitor the rainfall and temperatures for the rest of summer and early fall to determine if (conditions) more closely align with conditions in 2012 or conditions in 2015,” Johnson states.
It’s as good a reason as any to walk around with your head in the clouds.
Read the full TulsaWorld article
With last season’s population boom fresh on the minds of many and calls already coming to the Department, Johnson pointed out that it’s still too early to know what may happen with the quail population said hunters may find clues for themselves by considering habitat conditions and weather patterns.
He stated: “In general, quail booms can occur when low to moderate nesting-season temperatures are combined with ample rainfall, especially when these occur in consecutive years. Even during years of moderate to high rainfall, quail production can be quite poor if the temperatures are extreme. Moderately good quail production is still possible even during dry years if temperatures remain cool. However, years with exceptional heat and drought, like Oklahoma experienced during 2011 and 2012, will nearly always result in poor quail production.”
To drive home the importance of weather for quail, Johnson posted a chart to illustrate the differences in temperatures and rainfall between the bad quail production year of 2012 and the booming quail year of 2015.
Other factors come into play, of course. Consecutive years of poor production can compound the problem, he said.
“Likewise, consecutive years of good to excellent production can boost quail numbers to population levels that haven’t been observed in quite some time.”
“Sometimes, a year of excellent quail production and habitat condition can help buffer the impacts the following year ...” he stated.
This is brilliants stuff. Rather than hazarding a guess, he has turned hunters back to the countryside to consider what they see in front of them and exercise habitat-based vocabulary looking toward the season ahead.
Will 2016-17 be the year that moderate conditions followed the excellent conditions of 2015 with population and habitat carry-over that led to another population boost?
It’s looking that way. Anyone who has been outdoors the past month knows that 2016 has had many more days over 100 degrees than 2015. The chart provided by Johnson shows, for example, rainfall in the Northwest of 11.3 inches April-October in 2012 compared to 29.7 in 2015.
A quick check of the Oklahoma Mesonet for the past 120 days showed an average of about 12 inches in the Northwest region.
It’s been hotter, and there has been less rain, but there has been carryover.
“The key now is to monitor the rainfall and temperatures for the rest of summer and early fall to determine if (conditions) more closely align with conditions in 2012 or conditions in 2015,” Johnson states.
It’s as good a reason as any to walk around with your head in the clouds.
Read the full TulsaWorld article
Thursday, August 18, 2016
Native Quail Hunt in Kentucky Video
While there are fewer quail today than a generation ago, landowners see a rich recovery when grassland restoration is done properly. On acreage surrounding Mercer County's Shaker Village, Farmer hunts plentiful bobwhites with three generations of Dwayne Steely's family. Wildlife biologist Ben Robinson tags along to witness the bounty that this habitat work has brought about.
Monday, August 8, 2016
2011 Kansas Wild Quail Hunt - Video - Bird Dogs Afield
Bird Dogs Afield enjoys a Kansas wild quail hunt over pointing dogs.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
TX Wild Quail Hunt Video - Kenedy Ranch - Team Trophy Quest
Team Trophy Quest's Destination TQ: Season 16' Episode 9, Kenedy Ranch Quail Hunt
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Lucky streak continues with 2016 Texas quail populations
JOHN GILL
In competitive sports or anything else, it's difficult to sustain a string of wins, but that's exactly what has happened with the state's wildlife population for the past three years.
Three back-to-back wet years statewide has Texas looking at bumper crops of game and birds just before hunting and game regulations are established for the 2016-2017 seasons.
Texas Outdoors Annuals, which contain freshly established rules, will be at hunting and fishing depots in mid-August.
Dr. John Tomecek of the Texas A&M Rolling Plains quail management facility in San Angelo feels it's now save to say Texas has turned the corner on bad years of bird hunting, which includes turkey and quail. Dove are products of migratory patterns, depending on good hatches not only in Texas but some other states in the flyway.
Tomecek feels that quail in West Texas and the Rolling Plains have already experienced one hatch and predicts that another will occur before the season opener, probably in October.
However, Perez feels that the coastal plains of Texas may be the exception. The coastal bend had lots of rain for long periods of time this year and as a result quail have not been able to build nests and hatch young birds.
" I feel that another nesting opportunity will occur later this summer, but that means coastal hunters will be seeing some very young quail this fall," he added.
No-flooding rains happened in most regions of Texas in April and May, allowing for quail to hatch. He predicts that hatch No. 2 is now underway in the majority of the state.
"Quail carryover for 2015 was excellent, which will only enhance the 2016-2017 quail seasons.
Read the full Gosangelo article
In competitive sports or anything else, it's difficult to sustain a string of wins, but that's exactly what has happened with the state's wildlife population for the past three years.
Three back-to-back wet years statewide has Texas looking at bumper crops of game and birds just before hunting and game regulations are established for the 2016-2017 seasons.
Texas Outdoors Annuals, which contain freshly established rules, will be at hunting and fishing depots in mid-August.
Dr. John Tomecek of the Texas A&M Rolling Plains quail management facility in San Angelo feels it's now save to say Texas has turned the corner on bad years of bird hunting, which includes turkey and quail. Dove are products of migratory patterns, depending on good hatches not only in Texas but some other states in the flyway.
Tomecek feels that quail in West Texas and the Rolling Plains have already experienced one hatch and predicts that another will occur before the season opener, probably in October.
However, Perez feels that the coastal plains of Texas may be the exception. The coastal bend had lots of rain for long periods of time this year and as a result quail have not been able to build nests and hatch young birds.
" I feel that another nesting opportunity will occur later this summer, but that means coastal hunters will be seeing some very young quail this fall," he added.
No-flooding rains happened in most regions of Texas in April and May, allowing for quail to hatch. He predicts that hatch No. 2 is now underway in the majority of the state.
"Quail carryover for 2015 was excellent, which will only enhance the 2016-2017 quail seasons.
Read the full Gosangelo article
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
2016 Pennsylvania Quail reintroduction plan runs into trouble
BY BOB FRYE
The Pennsylvania Game Commission's plan to reintroduce bobwhite quail into the state has hit a couple of bumps.
Earlier this year, in a hearing at the state Capitol, executive director Matt Hough said the project was on hold because of a lack of money.
This month, it was revealed military officials at Fort Indiantown Gap — a U.S. Army training facility in Lebanon County — no longer are interested in allowing their grounds to be used as the reintroduction site.
All that is prompting a change.
Commission officials are expected to visit some state game lands in the state's south central and southeast regions, perhaps as early as this week, to see if any might be suitable as potential reintroduction sites.
A neighboring state is farther ahead with its own quail work.
Phase two of New Jersey's “Northern Bobwhite Restoration Initiative” kicked off with the release of 81 birds this spring.
Read the complete TribLive article
The Pennsylvania Game Commission's plan to reintroduce bobwhite quail into the state has hit a couple of bumps.
Earlier this year, in a hearing at the state Capitol, executive director Matt Hough said the project was on hold because of a lack of money.
This month, it was revealed military officials at Fort Indiantown Gap — a U.S. Army training facility in Lebanon County — no longer are interested in allowing their grounds to be used as the reintroduction site.
All that is prompting a change.
Commission officials are expected to visit some state game lands in the state's south central and southeast regions, perhaps as early as this week, to see if any might be suitable as potential reintroduction sites.
A neighboring state is farther ahead with its own quail work.
Phase two of New Jersey's “Northern Bobwhite Restoration Initiative” kicked off with the release of 81 birds this spring.
Read the complete TribLive article
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Hiring Field technicians – Quail Research: Texas
Agency - Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch
Location - Roby, TX; near Abilene
Job Category - Temporary/Seasonal Positions
Website - http://www.quailresearch.org
Salary - $1,100/mo plus lodging and food allowance
Start Date - 08/01/2016
Last Date to Apply - 07/10/2016
Description
Got your BS degree but now you need some real world experience on your resume? The Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch is looking for two motivated technicians for the fall and winter. Ending-date could extend until May 2018 given excellent job performance. Job duties include radiotelemetry, trapping/banding quail, various population indices (roadside counts, helicopter counts, covey call counts). Gain experience with quail habitat management, prescribed burning, data analysis, and outreach.
Qualifications
B.S. in wildlife management or related field, Proficiency using radiotelemetry preferred. Experience with galliformes desirable. Must have good work ethic and able to work long days when quail trapping is in progress. Experience with data entry (Excel), GPS and GIS required. Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Submit cover letter and resume (including 3 references).
Contact Person
Dr. Dale Rollins
Contact Phone
325-650-0311
Contact eMail
drollins@quailresearch.org
Full JobBoard Posting
Location - Roby, TX; near Abilene
Job Category - Temporary/Seasonal Positions
Website - http://www.quailresearch.org
Salary - $1,100/mo plus lodging and food allowance
Start Date - 08/01/2016
Last Date to Apply - 07/10/2016
Description
Got your BS degree but now you need some real world experience on your resume? The Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch is looking for two motivated technicians for the fall and winter. Ending-date could extend until May 2018 given excellent job performance. Job duties include radiotelemetry, trapping/banding quail, various population indices (roadside counts, helicopter counts, covey call counts). Gain experience with quail habitat management, prescribed burning, data analysis, and outreach.
Qualifications
B.S. in wildlife management or related field, Proficiency using radiotelemetry preferred. Experience with galliformes desirable. Must have good work ethic and able to work long days when quail trapping is in progress. Experience with data entry (Excel), GPS and GIS required. Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Submit cover letter and resume (including 3 references).
Contact Person
Dr. Dale Rollins
Contact Phone
325-650-0311
Contact eMail
drollins@quailresearch.org
Full JobBoard Posting
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Southern Kentucky Quail Hunt Video
Join the crew of Kentucky Afield TV as they visit a farm in southern Kentucky that is managed for wildlife.
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Boom-and-Bust Quail: Finding the Best Hunting Grounds
Article by Ron Spomer
Last winter, quail populations were up across the South and West. What finally went right for Gentleman Bob? And can it be repeated?
In a pasture near Roy, Tex., last January, I flushed a plague of quail. According to biologist Dale Rollins, bobwhite numbers hadn’t just doubled over the previous year; they’d increased fivefold. Scaled quail numbers were up eight times.
It was a classic irruption year.
Mearns quail exploded like that in southern Arizona two years ago. After years of low numbers, they were suddenly everywhere. I’ve seen Gambel’s quail do that in the Sonoran desert. Absent one year; like locusts the next.
In the 1960s, Idaho was covered up with mountain quail. Today, a remnant population barely hangs on, but introduced valley quail are doing okay.
Down in Missouri, Illinois, Mississippi, and surrounding states—once bobwhite strongholds—the quail seem almost to be missing in action.
What’s going on?
Habitat, and the way that habitat responds to weather conditions—both good and bad—is driving these trends.
Biologists have been harping on the fundamental importance of habitat for so long—while quail populations mainly move in one direction: down—that it’s getting hard to believe, especially with the huge uptick in hawks, raccoons, feral house cats, fire ants, and other predators. And what about diseases and parasites, like eye worms? These things all play a role, but, as the latest Texas irruption indicates, habitat (and habitat’s response to weather conditions) remains the crux of the situation.
Predators didn’t disappear from Texas last year. Neither did parasites or diseases. But, after years of drought, it rained. A lot. Ground that had been stripped to bare dirt sprouted vegetation in which quail could hide and thrive. Hens had plenty to eat, so they double clutched. A hen would lay 12 eggs, leave them for the male to incubate, then lay another 12 and hatch those herself. Bingo. A 12-fold increase.
Habitat, Times Three -- Read the rest of the Outdoor Life article
Last winter, quail populations were up across the South and West. What finally went right for Gentleman Bob? And can it be repeated?
In a pasture near Roy, Tex., last January, I flushed a plague of quail. According to biologist Dale Rollins, bobwhite numbers hadn’t just doubled over the previous year; they’d increased fivefold. Scaled quail numbers were up eight times.
It was a classic irruption year.
Mearns quail exploded like that in southern Arizona two years ago. After years of low numbers, they were suddenly everywhere. I’ve seen Gambel’s quail do that in the Sonoran desert. Absent one year; like locusts the next.
In the 1960s, Idaho was covered up with mountain quail. Today, a remnant population barely hangs on, but introduced valley quail are doing okay.
Down in Missouri, Illinois, Mississippi, and surrounding states—once bobwhite strongholds—the quail seem almost to be missing in action.
What’s going on?
Habitat, and the way that habitat responds to weather conditions—both good and bad—is driving these trends.
Biologists have been harping on the fundamental importance of habitat for so long—while quail populations mainly move in one direction: down—that it’s getting hard to believe, especially with the huge uptick in hawks, raccoons, feral house cats, fire ants, and other predators. And what about diseases and parasites, like eye worms? These things all play a role, but, as the latest Texas irruption indicates, habitat (and habitat’s response to weather conditions) remains the crux of the situation.
Predators didn’t disappear from Texas last year. Neither did parasites or diseases. But, after years of drought, it rained. A lot. Ground that had been stripped to bare dirt sprouted vegetation in which quail could hide and thrive. Hens had plenty to eat, so they double clutched. A hen would lay 12 eggs, leave them for the male to incubate, then lay another 12 and hatch those herself. Bingo. A 12-fold increase.
Habitat, Times Three -- Read the rest of the Outdoor Life article
Monday, June 6, 2016
Kentucky Season Ending Quail Hunt Video
The Kentucky Afield crew heads to Boyle County on the last day of quail season.
Monday, May 16, 2016
New Madrid County Missouri Quail Hunt Video
A
late season Quail Hunt in New Madrid County Missouri - With a Missouri
Quail Forever Representative and Quail Forever supporters.
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
"Pheasants Forever" - SportingDog Adventures SD Pheasant Hunt Video
There is no place a pheasant hunter would rather be on opening day than
in South Dakota. Jeff Fuller joins Brad Heidel of "Pheasants Forever" on
an upland hunt on Rivett Refuge Preserve in South Dakota. Good dogs and
good shooting is sure to make this an unforgettable experience.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Bird Dogs Forever Mearns Quail Hunt Episode Video
2001 Episode #8 of the Outdoor Life Series " Bird Dogs Forever". This episode features the first known television presentation of a Mearns quail hunt on actual wild birds. Don Lee and his dogs Slick and Sport guide Dr. Chris Hageseth on a fun adventure in southern Arizona near the Mexican border.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Delmar Smith named Park Cities Quail 2016 T. Boone Pickens Lifetime Sportsman Award winner
Written by Park Cities Quail
Park Cities Quail is proud to honor Mr. Delmar Smith as
the 2016 recipient of the T. Boone Pickens Lifetime Sportsman Award to
be presented on March 3, 2016, during their 10th Annual Dinner and
Auction at the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas.
Delmar has devoted a lifetime to the sport of gun dogs and
bird dogs as a breeder, trainer and judge. As a conservationist he was
at the forefront of ecological and biological studies to create superior
environments for the propagation of gamebirds. Those areas have since
been developed into excellent field trial grounds throughout the mid-
and southwestern United States.
Delmar grew up on a ranch in Big Cabin, Oklahoma where he
spent his childhood riding horseback to and from school and working for
local dog trainers. By the time Delmar was 13, he had saved enough money
from cleaning dog pens to take a horse-training course. He applied the
techniques learned in that course to create “The Delmar Smith Method”.
It was this revolutionary way for training bird dogs that led him to
become one of America’s most respected trainers producing two books and
three videos.
Many of Delmar’s own students have become excellent
trainers and field trial competitors and attribute their success to his
tutelage. Outdoor writer Tom Davis said, while it’s likely that Delmar
Smith has trained more bird dogs than anyone, ever, what’s not even
remotely in dispute is that he’s trained more PEOPLE to train bird dogs
than anyone. And he’s trained them to do it humanely and intelligently.
His seminars are now instructed by his son, Rick Smith, and his nephew,
Ronnie Smith.
Where women feel flush firing a shotgun at Broadfield quail
By Diane Bair and Pamela Wright
WOODBINE, Ga. — On a Saturday morning in a Georgia Low
Country field dense with thickets and thigh-high briars, we hit the
trail with five other women, a hunting guide, an English pointer, a
black Lab, and loaded shotguns. We were on our first-ever quail hunt at
the Broadfield Sporting Club and Lodge. We were gun virgins. Before this
ultimate wild-to-table trip, we’d never shot a firearm.
We followed Cruz, the English pointer, as he zigzagged
wildly through the moss-draped pine forest and open fields. He was
clearly a happy dog, on a serious mission. “Yup, yup, yup,” Chuck Dean,
our guide yodeled, keeping Cruz in earshot if not in sight.
“He’s getting bird-y,” Dean said, motioning us to quicken
our pace. “Yep, he’s on point.” Up ahead, Cruz was poised, dead still,
in front of a tangle of briars. We took our positions, guns at the
ready. On command, Cruz flushed a covey of wild birds; we jumped; guns
popped. Nothing dropped.
“Those birds scared you, didn’t they?” Dean asked with a knowing smile. “But you shot the hell out of that tree.”
The birds were so small. They flew so low. It happened so fast. It was chaos. And thrilling.
“Break ’em down,” Dean said, instructing us to disengage the shotguns. “Let’s go. Cruz is already back on point.”
Guns scare us, but the idea of hunting for our dinner was
strangely appealing and empowering. And the Broadfield quail hunting
experience, operated by the Forbes five-star Sea Island resort, was an
easy, indulgent way for us lady novices to try out the traditional
sport. But if we had the notion that hunting was going to be a
backwoods, beer-soaked, mud-caked experience (and we did), it was
obliterated the moment we arrived at Broadfield.
“We all have a deep passion for the place,” said Lee
Barber, the general manager, as he drove us around the preserve. “We
hope you feel it too.”
The isolated, private preserve stretches across more than
5,800 well-maintained acres. Old logging roads crisscross through open
fields and forests of live oaks and towering pines, and lead to two
lakes stocked with bass and bream. Wildlife is abundant, including
turkey, deer, pheasant, and quail. The parcel was carved out of the
original 50,000-acre Sea Island Shooting Preserve, one of the South’s
earliest sporting camps.
There’s a kitchen, lodge, smokehouse, beehives, chicken
coops, and organic gardens on the property. While some guests stayed
over at the upscale resort on Sea Island (there’s shuttle service to and
from the sporting club), we stayed in the rustically elegant,
two-bedroom, three-bath cabin at Broadfield, with a stone fireplace and
golden pecky pine walls. We went to sleep under star-splashed skies and
awoke to birdsong.
The first morning, we ate fresh eggs with house-smoked
sausage and thick bacon slabs, creamy grits and buttery biscuits with
Mayhaw jelly, prepared by Caleb Smith, Broadfield’s talented young chef.
After the Southern-style feast, we headed to the shooting range for a
quick lesson, shooting clay pigeons with 20-gauge Beretta shotguns.
”You don’t aim a shotgun,” Dean said. “You point it.” Dean
taught us the proper stance, how to tuck the shotgun into the crook of
our shoulders (so it doesn’t kiss you when it kicks back), and where to
place our hands.
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