Erie County Federation of Sportsmen s Clubs. ECFSC June 2015 General Meeting Minutes

Transcription

1 Rich Davenport, 2015 ECFSC Recording Secretary Erie County Federation of Sportsmen s Clubs ECFSC June 2015 General Meeting Minutes Date: June 25, 2015 Time: 7:00 PM Location: Hamburg Rod & Gun, Hamburg, NY Meeting called to order 7:07 p.m. Pledge to Flag Roll call Officers and Directors: Excused: Joe McAdams, Larry Jones, Rich Davenport, Frank Miskey Sr., Steve Aldstadt Quorum of member clubs Present: YES Guests: Troop 59, Scoutmasters Don Lombardo (right), Wayne Dieter (left), restored 5-station sporting clays trailer run by Boy Scouts for rent at your club or any facility. Received a tour of this device that was originally manufactured by the NRA and has been restored to near new condition by this energetic Boy Scout group. Donations are needed and appreciated to maintain operations. Motion by Jeff Jondle for donation of $250, 2 nd by Hope Melnyk, unanimous approval. Approval of previous month s minutes Motion to approve - Minutes not yet posted. TBD Membership report Antoinette Grote: 42 clubs have paid their dues, 9 clubs are still unpaid for Treasurer s report Rose Barus Formal 2-page written report of all account activity and balances have been ed to the officers and directors.

2 Motion to approve Dave Wharton, 2 nd Debbie Godfrey Correspondence report Dave Barus Dave announced that he and Rose Barus will allow their officer terms to expire and not run for re-election at the end of December, Requested that nominating committee consider requesting members to consider filling the position of Corresponding Secretary and Treasurer, as well as the Fish Committee Chairman. Rose Barus said she would be willing to train someone in the next 6 months as co-treasurer to learn the easy-to-use software (Quicken) that we use to keep the ECFS books. Chuck requested that we form a multiple person Fish Committee for fishing program event planning into the future. Tom Fischer volunteered to be a part of that committee. Letters received: 1) Crow s Nest with $200 donation to be used for ECFS Youth Fishing Programs 2) East Aurora Moose Lodge 370 thank you letter for our donation of 6 rods/reels/tackle for their youth fishing tournament held on May 30, 2015 Letters Sent: 1) Thank you letter to Crow s Nest 2) Thank you letter to Erie County Conservation Society for hosting the last meeting See attachments for copies of letters. President s Report Chuck Godfrey 1) State Police Foil request response written. see attachments for copy of letter. 2) Sent letter requesting that micro-bead products to EC legislator Patrick Burke with copies to Mark Poloncarz - county executive, John Mills - majority leader, Betty Jean Grant - minority leader, regarding letter that ECFS supported sending at last meeting in May. 3) EC Fair coming up August New hours this year, starting at 9AM and running thru 10PM each day except first day, August 12, which is 12 noon thru 10PM. Next meetings; Date BM GM Location Time Time 7/23/2015-6:30-7:00 Gen Meet Niagara River Station, Grand Island, NY August No Meeting 9/10/2015-6:30-7:00 Gen Meet Springville Field & Stream, Springville, NY 10/8/2015-6:30-7:00 Gen Meet Hawkeye Bowmen, Marilla, NY 11/12/2015-6:30-7:00 Gen Meet TBD 12/10/2015-6:30-7:00 Gen Meet Bison City Rod & Gun, Buffalo, NY 2

3 SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS Nominations Paul Stoos Looking for nominations for President, Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, Nominating Committee Chairman, Fish Committee Chairman, Big Game Committee Chairman and FWMB Representative. Awards Frank Miskey Sr. N/A Banquet Frank Miskey, Jr. N/A Fund Raising Larry Jones N/A Educational Opportunities Chuck Godfrey 1) Have received thank you letters from the last 3 recipients 2) Dve Barus reported that East Aurora Fish and Game will sponsor their 15 th annual NRA Youth Sportsfest at their club location on Luther Road in East Aurora on July 25 th for kids aged 12 to 18. Only 75 spaces are available, call Dr. Conrad Boyle to register. Kids will learn about how to reload a shotgun, then shoot trap, skeet, small bore rifle, black powder, long bow, recurve bow, crossbow and learn about dog training. To register and find out more information, contact Dr. Conrad Boyle at FWMB - Paul Stoos 1) No news, all old business rehashed Shows Dave Wharton 1) Erie County Fair- Chuck has schedule 2) Dan Tone mentioned that new fish tanks are installed and are functional in the Conservation Building for this year and they look real good. So lve fish will be returned to the fair this year. National Hunting and Fishing day Rich Davenport 1) Meeting held last week at Smokey Bones, Event will be held last Saturday in September at Elma Conservation Club. Dave and Rose will be in Minnetonka, MN during this event and wil notn be able to participate. 2) Next meeting for ECFS on Friday, July 29, 7PM, meet at, Smokey Bones parking lot near Cabela s 3) Tom Fischer and Chuck Godfrey shared that the 42 year heritage NHF Day that was held in Region 8 in Avon, has been cancelled by the Region 8 NYSDEC office. The Region 8 director is not a particularly big fan of hunting and the Region 8 wildlife resources director, a woman, is a proponent of anti-hunting. The Region 8 NHF Day is being considered to be held by the Livingston County Federation at a private club in Region 8.More later. WNY Environmental Federation Dan Tone 1) Rich Davenport has minutes to be published. 3

4 2) Question on the floor from Tony Gonello regarding use of crossbow for 12 yr olds. DEC not opposed, but requires legislator hold up in Assembly with Sweeney and New York Bowhunters support. 3) John Susz reminds us that this WNFEF next meeting is Sep. 13 at Hoaks, agenda includes election of officers. Youth Lifetime License Chuck Godfrey 1) Raffle tickets for same $5 ea or 3 for $10. Heavy prize list. 2) Drawing to be held at Bison City in December Budget and Finance Rose Barus (motion to pay bills) 1) Motion to approve - no bills to pay currently, reimbursements to pay for usual expenses related to ECFS events with receipt provided do not require a vote. Website Joe McAdams - eriectyfsc.org 1) Website has been redesigned by Joe and the format is warm and complete. 2) Joe McAdam requested historical pictures from previous ECFS events be sent to him for posting on the new ECFS website. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS Law enforcement Jeff Jondle 1) Not too much this month. New Region 9 Lieutenant is Bruce Hummel, now has taken his position. Archery & Bowhunting Jim McCann 1) No news Crossbow Frank Miskey, Jr. 1) President of NY Bowhunters sent a letter out to NYSDEC opposing the possibility of using crossbows during the NYS archery season. Quite a few inaccuracies were in NYB letter and NYSDEC Jeremy Hurst responded to point out corrections, with regulations implemented by legislature, not DEC. Comments also included kinetic energy for arrow weight and stroke of bow differences. Hurst point of letter was to identify that DEC did not do what the NYB letter says. Fish Dave Barus 1) NYSDEC - Free Fishing Weekend, On June 27 th and 28 th, anyone (resident or non-resident) can fish the fresh or marine waters of New York State and no fishing license is required! Since no license is required, it s the perfect time to take a friend or relative fishing. Anglers must still abide by New York State fishing regulations during the free fishing weekend. 2) Walleye Reward Tag Program, The New York State DEC Lake Erie Research Unit, along with other fishery management groups around Lake Erie are conducting a walleye movement study. If you catch a tagged walleye, there is a 4

5 $100 reward for the return of the whole fish and its internal transmitter. Tag handling and reward information are displayed on an easily visible orange-colored external loop tag on the back of each tagged walleye. 3) Chautauqua Lake, DEC reports that lake temperatures have climbed to above 70 degrees in south basin, slightly less north of Long Point. Muskellunge anglers have enjoyed good action along weed lines, with several musky caught that measured more than 50 inches, true trophy fish and most anglers are measuring and releasing these legacy fish after a picture. According to DEC fisheries biologist, Mike Todd, the musky folks are trolling at around 2 mph or casting with large stickbaits. Bass fishing is hot around the docks and near shore while fishing from a boat with tube jigs and plastic worms. 4) Musky Season Changes, Statewide (general) regulation changes for muskellunge covering most inland waters were revised with the 0pening date moved to the last Saturday in May (May 30, 2015), the minimum length limit increased to 40 inches, and then anglers need to check their specific waterway for special regulations. For the Great Lakes and tributaries, the opening date remains UNCHANGED: third Saturday in June (June 20, 2015), but the minimum size limit has been increased to 54 inches on Lake Ontario and the Niagara and St. Lawrence River, this makes regulations consistent with Lake Erie. 5) Lake Erie Border Check-In, Anglers fishing in boats on Lake Erie need to be aware that they need to check into Canadian waters by calling the Canadian Border Service agency at and when returning to USA waters, need to check back in to the United States Border Patrol by calling Failure to do so may result in a Homeland Security issue. 6) Record NYS Walleye Identified, While assessing Ashokan Reservoir in the Catskills in a late April study, NYSDEC fisheries biologists and crews recorded a whopper walleye that measured 32 inches and tipped the scales at 17 lbs-7oz. That would be a new state record! The current NYS walleye record is 16 lbs-9oz, 34 inches long, caught by Thomas Reed in January 2009 on Mystic Lake in Cattaraugus County. The nighttime fish survey crew carefully released the potential new record fish back into the Ashokan Reservoir east basin and there will likely be more fishing activity on that waterway in the future. 7) Erie County Fish Habitat Restoration At the Erie County Fish Advisory Board meeting in June, guest V. Haas reported that she is managing two county-owned habitat park restorations funded by the US EPA/Great Lakes Restoration Initiative at Red Jacket Natural Habitat Park (foot of Smith Street) and the Bailey Peninsula Natural Habitat Park. Both projects are being restored post-dredging of toxic sediment with the goal of restoring fish and wildlife to the Buffalo River. While these are public parks, there is going to be a balance between limited public use and fish/wildlife conservation. Concept plans are underway with 30% plans expected in July She would like to return to a future meeting to review the draft plans and get the input from this board as to any ideas that could improve the projects. 8) Teach Me To Fish Report - East Aurora Fish and Game, We had a beautiful day on Saturday, June 6, with 87 kids registered and with parents we had about 160 people around the pond. Kid s ages ranged from 3-15 years old. We had a good 5

6 amount of fish caught including several bass over the 12" mark. From East Aurora Fish and Game we had about 18 volunteers. Elaine Winter and her kitchen crew put on a great spread with Sahlen s hot dogs, grill and tent donated by Sahlen's for use in this event too, and all of the sides dishes and fixings including a great cake!!! 9) Teach Me To Fish Report - Tifft Nature Preserve, The NYSDEC/ECFS Kids Teach-Me-To-Fish family fishing clinic at Tifft Nature preserve took place on June 13 th and was a nice success. Some 81 children attended and the good news is that they were all new to the event, so we reached a lot of new people. Volunteer staffing was extremely low with only 6-10 ECFS people on hand. Tifft staff helped out, it went smoothly. Extreme hearty thank you to those ECFS volunteers that were on hand: Tom Fischer, Jeff Jondel, Joe Fischer, Paul Stoos, Hal Lawrence, Rose Barus, Joe McAdam and Willie Sieber. Special thanks to our resident 85 year old volunteers from East Aurora Fish & Game: Russ Johnson and Bob Carlson. See event summary report in the ECFS newsletter. 10) Buffalo Harbor State Park (old Small Boat Harbor) Launch Access - Offers New Problems, Bass professional anglers and recreational anglers alike have been voicing complaints about the revised boat launch service at Safe Harbor Marina at the Buffalo Harbor State Park (old NFTA Small Boat Harbor). Recently, New York State transferred management of the marina and boat launch access. According to bass pro, Scott Callen, The shuttle bus that ran to assist the speed of launching during busy boat launch ramp periods was terminated. The shuttle was also a nice security measure, because it ran much of the time. The close-tolaunch parking areas have also been reduced or eliminated, and now only parking lot E is allowed for boat trailers (a ¼ mile walk). Notable improvements are in the works. The shuttles are proposed to return if the NYS will agree to a $1 launch fee increase from $7 to $8, competitive with other WNY marinas. A special meeting was held at Southtowns Walleye clubhouse on June 24 at 7PM, to discuss the issues of interest. Callen is asking anyone with boat launch issues to contact legislator Mike Kearns at kearnsm@assembly.stat.ny.us to help with collecting data and making improvements to the new procedures in place right now. The small boat harbor launch site is the only viable boat launch for high numbers of weekend recreational boaters and anglers to launch their boats. Continued inefficiency and restrictions would also reduce or eliminate tournament fishing opportunities for the Erie County and Western New York regions, affecting economic impact. Interested boaters can talk directly with Callen at or by phone at Additionally, see the attached Harbor Minutes report in this newsletter. 11) Remaining Erie County Federation & Clubs Youth Fishing/Outdoor Events for 2015 June 27: Family Fishing Clinic, Teach-Me-To-Fish, Erie County Federation of Sportsmen, PO Box 560, East Aurora, NY, Chestnut Ridge Park Commissioners Cabin Lake, 150 kids, Info: Dave Barus, June 27: Southtowns Walleye Kids Fishing Derby, Tifft Nature Preserve, 10AM- 2PM, Fuhrmann Blvd., Buffalo, NY, info: Ron Wutz:

7 June 27/28: Family Fishing Weekend, Youth Fishing Program, Buffalo kids, Foot of Ontario Street, Black Rock Canal Park, estimated 5,000+ kids, info: George Johnson, July 17-19: Fishing With Heroes, SPECIAL ADULT MILITARY WOUNDED VETERAN SURVIVOR PROGRAM, open program for USA purple heart award military personnel from any era, includes all accommodations, food, charter fishing services, fishing gear, beverages, all inclusive, FREE to attendees, info: Captain Fred Forsythe, July 31-Aug. 2: The 21 st Annual Youth Archery Camp, FREE for kids years old that want to learn about archery and the outdoors, kids with NYS Bowhunter Ed Certificates are NOT eligible, West Falls Conservation Society, 55 Bridge St., West Falls, NY, contact Jerry Lewandowski via at Sep. 19: Kids Fishing Derby, East Aurora Fish & Game, 1016 Luther Rd., East Aurora, NY, 11AM-12:30PM, 75 kids, info: Dave Smyczynski, Sep. 26: National Hunting & Fishing Day, Elma Conservation Club, fly tying, trapping, casting, dogs, trap shooting, NYSDEC, more, 200 kids, info: Rich Davenport, CALL Dave Barus: for additional INFO ECFS is now the HQ for rods/reels for 10 organizations, including Chautauqua County (Zen Olaw), Niagara County (Bill Hilts) and 8 additional organizations in Erie County that include Rushford Conservation (Rick Walczyk), Southtowns Walleye (Ron Wutz), Bison City Rod & Gun (Dave Barus), East Aurora Fish & Game (Dave Smyczynski), ECFS (Dave Barus), Ducks Unlimited (George Rockey), Buffalo United Front (George Johnson) and Fishing With Heroes (Fred Forsythe). The new Fish Committee Chairman will need to reconsider continuing this practice to discount purchases and free shipping for the other groups. 12) Wiscoy Creek Angler Diary Program, DEC Region 9 Fisheries Unit is again conducting an angler diary program for Wiscoy Creek in Allegany and Wyoming Counties during DEC is currently looking for anglers to keep diaries. If you fish Wiscoy Creek (even once) and would like to keep a diary, please call DEC Fisheries at (716) or at fwfish9@dec.ny.gov. The program will run March 1st through October 31st. This program duplicates the 2012 dairy program on this waterway (see 2012 Survey at: and will be used in conjunction with a late-summer electrofishing survey to evaluate the fishery's overall quality. 13) DEC Looking for Fishery Info from ANGLERS, Anglers that need more fishing information or would like to contribute to the weekly Lake Erie or WNY Fishing Hotline report, please call or Mike Todd ( ; michael.todd@dec.ny.gov). Good Luck Fishing! The fishing hotline audio version can also be heard at (716) 679-ERIE or (716) 855-FISH. MOTION: Paul Stoos - ECFS write a letter of support for $1 increase in boat launch fee increase if the shuttle is returned to service to improve efficiencies there. 2 nd Dave Wharton. Unanimous approval. Tom Marks suggests copies to all WNY legislators. 7

8 Comments on economic advantage for putting the shuttle back into service. Will notify Scott Callen of intent and request best time to do this. ACTIVITY: Chuck mentioned that ECFS needs to set up a new committee for youth fishing events. Tom Fischer volunteered to be a part of that committee. Small Game Dan Tone 1) Chuck noted that the forms for the youth pheasant hunt have been sent in,all OK. 2) Dan reported that 600 pheasant chicks given out to 4H youth raising pheasants. Also reported that a single beautiful bird was turned in after getting hit by a car in Niagara County, it was a bird that was stocked in fall of ) Have received donations from Murray Roofing, Collin Borngraber and others in support of this program. ECFS will reapply to Friends of NRA for grant for 2016, this was not filed in time for Big Game Paul Stoos 1) Discussion in NYSCC regarding expanding antler restrictions in NYS for the 2015 season. Rich Davenport is on top of info for this. DEC has indicated that there are so many minor changes to this legislation that it was not possible to get it into the syllabus this year. It will more likely be started in 2016, following a series of public meetings starting in July 2015 (per NY Outdoor News, says Tom Fischer). 2) Antlerless deer hunt for Region Trapping Rick Wattengel 1) Rick motion for request ECFS consider a $250 donation to the Pat Arnold Youth Trapping Camp set for July 30 to August 1. Motion was 2 nd by Tom Fischer. Unanimous approval. Waterfowl Paul Pietraszewski 1) Our dry/wet spring will likely results in a good hatch of waterfowl for this year. Nothing else. Conservation Council - Dan Tone 1) There are 5 other region in NYS that are conducting fund-raising or are sending donations to NYSCC in support of the operation. This is encouraging. 2) The Federation has decided to promote the voluntary Buck A Member Program proposed by the Council. This, if successful, will insure a reliable source of income to meet the future needs for our only conservation rights lobbying organization in our state. For those clubs who feel this is a worthwhile cause, please make checks payable to - New York State Conservation Council and send to NYSCC, 8 East Main St., Ilion, NY To those clubs that donated last year, we hope that your commitment will carry on. Please don t wait until the Council solicits for your help. They need the resources now to fund the year s budget needs. Also, to those clubs who chose not to participate, please consider what the Council is asking for: a dollar a member. A buck doesn t buy much 8

9 these days, not a beer at a bar, not a pack of cigarettes or a good cigar, not a decent fishing lure, or even a couple dozen worms. Perhaps it s time we sportsmen and women consider putting this all in perspective! Clubs wishing to receive the Council s Grass Roots News monthly publication, which gives updated information on state legislation and conservation issues, should contact the Council at You can also them at - nyscc@nyscc.com with the information. Clubs can send their club s news for publication to - NYSCC, 8 East Main St., Ilion, NY or them by the 2 nd Monday of the month. The Council also has a policy of not arbitrarily giving or selling private club information. Finally, there is an ongoing new member/renewal drive for individual Council memberships, with prizes available. Contact the Council or visit their website for details. Environment & Pollution Tom Marks 1) No changes and no additional news. Legislation John Susz 1) The legislature has voted out all calls to repeal the NY Safe Act. 2) Dave Wharton said that Steve Aldstadt indicated that other firearm bills are in limbo as the legislature is busy with the new rent control bills that are tying up both the house and senate in Albany. 3) To keep in touch with what s going on with firearm legislation in New York, check out SCOPE s website at - Resolutions Rich Davenport - 1) All clubs and representatives should have received copies of this year s NYSCC proposed resolutions. Roll call vote for all clubs that have paid dues can vote ballots due to ECFS Chuck Godfrey by next meeting, 7/23/15 at Niagara River Station. OK to send by mail to Chuck Godfrey at 29 Yvette Dr., Cheektowaga, NY 14227, or by to Chuck at steelheader03@hotmail.com. Results will be available within the following week. 2) LIST OF RESOLUTIONS: 9

10 2015 NYSCC Resolutions Crossbows CROSSBOW USE TO ARCHERY PRIVILEGES ERIE COUNTY FEDERATION OF SPORTSMEN S CLUBS Whereas, a crossbow propels its projectile in the same fashion as a compound or recurve bow, and; Whereas, the effective hunting range of a crossbow is similar to that of a compound bow, and; Whereas, the minimum age to hunt big game in NYS with a compound or recurve bow is age 12 under supervision of parent, legal guardian or qualified mentor, and; Whereas, a muzzleloader is a firearm, and; Whereas, the minimum age for youth hunters to hunt big game under supervision with a firearm is age 14, and; Whereas, under Governor Cuomo s NY Open for Hunting and Fishing initiative the muzzleloader privilege now carries a cost lower than the archery privilege, and; Whereas, maximizing revenue into NYS Conservation Fund helps maintain the operational health of fish and wildlife work done by NYS on behalf of the People; Therefore, be it resolved: That the NYSCC pursue legislation to amend the NYS Crossbow Law to change the requirements for crossbow use from the muzzleloader privileges, and to require archery privileges for lawful hunting with a crossbow, and to provide youth hunters age 12 and 13 the same opportunity to hunt big game with their parent, legal guardian or qualified mentor as they have with compound or recurve bows, while strengthening revenue into the NYS Conservation Fund. Contact: Dan Tone, fishhillrd@gmail.com, (716) Firearm Committee: support; Big Game Committee recommends SUPPORT, vote was 7 For, 1 Opposed, 1 Abstain Move the Southern Zone late muzzleloader and late bow/crossbow season to the end of December. Yates County Federation of Conservation Clubs Whereas, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for regulating hunting within New York State, and; Whereas, the NYSDEC sets regulations, quotas, and seasons to help manage our natural resources, and; Whereas, the NYSDEC employs trained wildlife biologists and managers and they have years of experience managing our fish and game resources, and the expertise to do so, and; 10

11 Whereas, the White-tailed deer is primarily crepuscular, active at twilight. Deer activity changes with the length of the day peaking during the rut. Hunting pressure, the rut nearing its end and short days cause deer to become more nocturnal, and; Whereas, moving the late muzzleloader and late bow season, which run concurrently, would allow the deer population over two weeks to go back to normal activity. Deer in December, during many hunting seasons, appear to be much less active during daylight or to seemingly have become nocturnal, and; Whereas, other states Pennsylvania and Ohio already have a successful late hunting season during the last week of December and/or into January, and; Whereas, a late season in the last week of December when sportsman have time off from school and work will allow college students hunting opportunities they otherwise may not have during their college years. This would put more hunters afield and prevent some from giving up hunting entirely. This would be a time when three generations of a family are able to hunt together, Therefore be it resolved: that the NYSCC seek to change legislation to move the Southern Zone, 9 day late muzzleloader and late bow/crossbow season from its current dates on or about December 8th to the 16th to a new season of on or about December 26th to January 3rd in order to give late season hunting opportunities to sportsman and to meet the deer management goals of the NYSDEC. Contact: Steve Weckelman, weckpyny@gmail.com, (315) Big Game Committee: OPPOSE, vote was 0, 7, 1 really revolves around trail usage and snowmobile rules, which falls under the Parks Dept. We do recommend that a summit between NYSCC and NYSSA be conducted to discuss changing of trail rules to allow for snowmobile trails open when the regular big game season closes, rather than when the last big game season closes Allow muzzleloader or archery big game tag to be used with crossbows New York State Muzzleloaders Assoc. WHEREAS, Hunting with a crossbow as a legal implement for big game was passed into law in 2014 under Environmental Conservation Law, Article 11, and; WHEREAS, Hunting with a crossbow outside of the regular firearms or early bear seasons requires a Muzzleloader Privilege to participate, and; WHEREAS, Archers have the ability to harvest a deer with a Bow tag and then also purchase a Muzzleloader tag which could be used to harvest another deer during the defined special crossbow seasons, and; WHEREAS, Muzzleloaders have long been denied comparable opportunities for special use seasons when compared to the archery hunters despite paying the same fees for privileges, and; WHEREAS, Muzzleloaders who have an interest in hunting with a crossbow must now choose to harvest a deer with either a crossbow or muzzleloader, and; THEREFORE BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED: that the NYSCC support a change to Environmental Conservation Law to allow crossbow hunters to be able to use either a Muzzleloader Privilege tag or an Archery privilege tag instead of being limited to the current Muzzleloader tag allowing more flexibility for tag use and not making the 11

12 muzzleloaders choose between taking a deer with a crossbow OR taking one with a muzzleloader. In addition, this resolution in no way proposes to change the existing season structure or dates, only the tag structure for use of the crossbow. Article 11 Title 7 (New language is in bold italics) A bowhunting privilege when included on a hunting license entitles a holder: (4) who is fourteen years of age or older to hunt wild deer and bear with a crossbow, in a special muzzle-loading firearm season, as provided in title 9 of this article. Contact: NYS Muzzleloaders Assoc Eric Bratt, grizekb@aol.com, phone (518) Firearm Committee: support; Big Game Committee: SUPPORT, vote was 5, 2, 1. It was discussed that this would be unnecessary if the Erie County Resolution is acted upon by the Legislature (bills in both houses already exist to do this, sent along that info earlier), and the DEC agrees the Erie County Resolution would be a cleaner way to go. COYOTE SEASON EXTENSION OF CURRENT COYOTE SEASON ERIE COUNTY FEDERATION OF SPORTSMEN S CLUBS Whereas, Predator prey relationships between the white tailed deer/turkey and the coyote have been extensively studied throughout the United States, and; Whereas, Studies in Texas have shown 70% of a coyote s diet during the months of June and July to consist of fawns and that fawn survival in a coyote proof enclosure was significantly higher than outside the enclosure. Maine food habitat studies showed that white tailed deer make up 50 60% of the coyote s diet and this predation had the potential to have significant negative effects on the deer herd. Fawn survival studies in Centre County Pennsylvania during showed that of the 218 fawns that were followed with telemetry equipment, predators killed 22%, the leading source of mortality. Of the fawns killed by predators, most were killed by coyotes (49%). Studies in Northern Alabama and Southwest Georgia studied fawning on similar parcels of land, one where coyotes were aggressively removed during fawning season and the other where no removal was done. The results showed a staggering difference. In the removal areas, 2 out of every 3 does were observed with fawns and in the non removal areas, only 1 out of 28 does were observed with fawns, and; Whereas, The impacts of predation on turkey populations vary by season, location and land use patterns but, predation may significantly impact these populations when faced with our State s growing problems of poor nesting cover, exposure to severe weather for extended periods of time and a growing predator population. Studies conducted on stomach contents of coyotes taken in Mississippi and of coyote scat have shown that the coyote s best chance for a turkey dinner is during the poult rearing season when the young poults are unable to fly, and; 12

13 Whereas, By extending a portion of the coyote season out into the more favorable spring weather conditions of April and May would help to put more hunters afield in search of coyotes. Actively removing coyotes during the critical fawning period for the white tailed deer herd will help to reduce predation on the herd s fawn population. Having the coyote season available during the entirety of spring turkey season would create opportunities for Spring turkey hunters to harvest a coyote whether actively in search of them or as a consequence of a coyote coming in to attack a turkey set up. Actively removing coyotes during the critical nesting period for the wild turkey flock will help to reduce predation on the flock s poult population. Therefore, be it resolved: That the NYSCC pursue legislation to amend the NYS furbearer hunting regulations to extend the coyote hunting season from its current October 1st March 31st time frame to an October 1st May 31 st timeframe, thereby creating additional protections from predation for our white tailed deer herd and wild turkey flocks and creating additional opportunities for hunters to harvest a coyote. Contact: Dan Tone fishhillrd@gmail.com (716) Bear Season Spring Bear Season Delaware County Federation of Sportsmen WHEREAS: The negative impact to agriculture has increased with the increased population of black bears in NYS, and; WHEREAS: Human/bear conflicts have increased with the increase in the population of black bears in NYS, and; WHEREAS: We believe this would increase opportunities for sportsmen to harvest bears and reduce the number of unwanted bears killed with nuisance permits, and; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The New York Conservation Council pursue the necessary legislation and regulations to develop and implement a spring bear season in New York State. Contact: Daniel Owen, dowen@mkl.com Firearm Committee: support; Big Game Committee: SUPPORT, vote was 7, 1, 1 Rifle for Big Game in Onondaga County Expand the types of wildlife that can currently be hunted with centerfire rifle in Onondaga County to include big game. Onondaga County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs Whereas, centerfire rifles have been a legal hunting implement for the taking of small game (with the exception of migratory fowl and turkey) and varmints and predators for many years in Onondaga County, and; Whereas, centerfire rifle cartridges have been legal for use in pistols with a barrel length of less than 16 inches for many years for the taking of big game in Onondaga County, and many of these pistols are ballistically superior to some of the banned centerfire rifles, and; Whereas, in all of the counties contiguous to Onondaga County, centerfire rifles are classified as a legal hunting implement for the taking of big game, and; 13

14 Whereas, there was never any published scientific evidence presented to show that banning rifles as a legal hunting implement for the taking of big game would improve or increase public safety, and; Whereas, current regulations, banning centerfire rifles as a legal hunting implement for the taking of big game, were created under the assumption that shotguns are always safer than rifles, a scientifically conducted, peer reviewed study done for the Pennsylvania Game Commission proved that assumption to be incorrect (Do Shotguns and Muzzleloaders Pose Less Risk Than Centerfire Rifles for Hunting Deer in Pennsylvania? March 2007), and; Whereas, Counties that have a higher population density allow the use of centerfire rifles for hunting big game (Orange County has a population density approximately three (3) times that of Onondaga County), and; Whereas, open big game seasons are the only time, in Onondaga County, that centerfire rifles are not allowed to be carried afield, with the exception of centerfire rifles less than.22 caliber, and; Whereas, New York State Department Of Environmental Conservation and other law enforcement agencies records show no increase in number, or severity, of firearm related hunting incidents attributed to centerfire rifles as a legal hunting implement for the taking of big game in counties which have recently changed to allowing centerfire rifles for big game hunting, and; Whereas, all current state and local laws pertaining to use of shotguns would, also, pertain to use of centerfire rifles, and; Whereas the Onondaga County Federation of Sportsmen s Clubs, passed a resolution requesting that centerfire rifles be allowed for hunting big game in Onondaga County in April 2013, and; Whereas, NYSCC Policies on resolutions state that "Resolutions are policy declarations and are not meant to solve local problems unless all other avenues of remedy have been investigated on the local level, and; Whereas, the Onondaga County Legislature has failed to propose a "home rule" resolution asking the state legislature to "Expand the types of wildlife that can currently be hunted with centerfire rifle in Onondaga County to include big game" even after several requests over several years from the Onondaga County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the New York State Conservation Council support legislation to amend the New York State Environmental Conservation Law, , relating to allowing the use of centerfire rifle for hunting big game in the County of Onondaga. Contact Information: Stephen Wowelko, wowelko@juno.com, (315) Big Game Committee: SUPPORT, vote was 7, 1, 1; Firearm Committee: unanimously support Membership Outreach 1) The membership secretary would like all club presidents to consider attending at least one regular Federation meeting a year. This might not only prove to be a learning experience, but may also provide a better insight as to the importance of 14

15 having representation on behalf of their clubs. If any club would like a visit from a Federation spokesman, please contact President Chuck Godfrey at or steelheader03@hotmail.com. The president will also try to visit one club or so per month. 2) IF ANYONE KNOWS OF AN ERIE COUNTY CLUB WHICH IS NOT A MEMBER, PLEASE LET THE PRESIDENT KNOW SO HE CAN CONTACT THEM ABOUT MEMBERSHIP Sportsman/woman Education Frank Miskey Sr. 1) Calendars are out and on-line schedule is at NYSDEC website. Old Business: 1) Nothing that has not been covered tonight. New Business: 1) East Aurora Fish and Game offers Civilian Marksmanship Program training (CMP) at their rifle range, open to the public, from May to September on the 2 nd and 4 th Wednesday of each month. $20 per session includes rifle and 50 rounds of amo. $5 for session with your own rifle and ammo. Rifles used are M1 Garand and participants can learn standing, sitting, prone positions and basic care and maintenance and disassembly and reassembly of this rifle. For info call Jim Dobies at , Dave Zell , or Dave Dudziak ) The Niagara County Tourism group has provided ECFS with 1,000 tickets that provide a $1 discount for those attending the Niagara County Winter Outdoor Show in January If they use the card, $1 will be sent to ECFS in support of ECFS Youth Programs for each card sent in. Attendees can take cards to their clubs today. Good and Welfare of the Organization: 1) Joe McAdam requested more help for Teach-Me-To-Fish events, especially for this weekend at Chestnut Ridge. 50/50 Raffle 1) Winner: West Falls Motion for Adjournment Motion to adjourn Hope Melnyk, Debbie Godfrey Thanks to Host Club! Hamburg Rod and Gun Respectfully Submitted, Dave Barus Cell:

16 Kids Learn All about Fishing at Bison City Rod & Gun 192 Kids Learn About the Fun of Fishing! April 26, 2015; 465 Total Attendance; 38 volunteers; 6-Learning Stations and live Sheriff Horses! Warming sunny skies helped bring kids and families from Buffalo and all over Western New York to the Bison City Rod & Gun Club to learn all about the outdoors through the fun of fishing at the 11 th Annual Memorial Jimmy Griffin Teach-Me- To-Fish event at 511 Ohio Street, located directly on the rejuvenated Buffalo River. Kids, parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, even single adults, all came ready to discover the fun and adventure of how-to-fish. Retired NYS Environmental Conservation Officer, Jeff Jondle, assisted Rose Barus, Katherine Voss and Lynda Cooley at the registration station where the entrance line went right out into the parking lot for over 45 minutes. Master youth fishing educator, Tom Fischer, had pre-set the rods, reels, bobbers, hooks, split shot and plenty of night-crawler bait supplied by Weekley s Worms in Blasdell, New York, for use at the Bison City fishing pier. Western New York bass pro, Scott Gauld, conducted the How-To-Fish learning station and took time to assure each and every adult and youth in the program, that catching a fish with the right rod and reel and an artificial lure was not only possible, it was easy. Gauld provided a level of confidence that only a professional angler might be able to share with onlookers. There were Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts that attended in uniform, some of them working toward their fishing merit badge. Craig Meyers and Joe Mills were assisted by two young 80-year old gentlemen anglers, Russ Johnson and Bob Carlson - members of the East Aurora Fish & Game Club, who have perfected the system of educating kids and parents on how to tie the Palomar Knot using a training rope tool. After they completed a simple 5-minute learning station on how to set up a weedless plastic worm and make it fun to fish on a large inverted hook, teacher mentors, Mike Smith and Collin Voss a junior master angler, provided each youth with a souvenir plastic bait sample to fish with later. Given a choice of plastic bait forms, including grubs, worms, crayfish and other types of plastics, most girls choose the brightly color baits, the guys picked the bigger and darker colored artificial molded creature baits. Go figure! Lifetime youth outdoor license program supporter, Paul Stoos, provided details and opportunity for kids to enter a free raffle for a free NYS lifetime fishing or hunting license, through the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen.

17 With instruction from Jerry May and Ted Malota and others, kids used a spincast rod and casting plug to learn about casting a fishing line. After a few minutes of instruction, the kids were sailing their hookless casting baits a very long way toward hula-hoop targets. Was fun for everyone! Kids visited the "Feed-The-Fish" station with Earl Farrel Sr., here they learned about the Bison City floating fish pens and the 5,000 steelhead maintained this year. The fish scent-imprint to the Buffalo River waterway as the fingerlings grow from 3 inches to 7 inches before they are released to the river. After 3 years, they will return each year to swim far upstream to spawn and procreate, helping with the fish restoration and conservation effort. The "Fishing Pier" experience provided the kids hands-on time with everything they had learned during their learning station sessions. Donna and Stacey Kayes assisted kids with putting on mandatory life preservers before providing a loaner rod/reel and bait from "Fishing Pier" Captains Larry D. Jones, Earl Farrel Jr., and multiple Bison City volunteers on the fishing pier team. At the end of the session, with over 70 ides in a constant show-n-tell program displayed on the auditorium screen, folks totally new to fishing asked lots of good questions about the small things they wanted to know more about - a sure sign they plan to return to the friendly waterways of Western New York with their new rods and reels. Over 75 youths were awarded a free rod/reel combo, where-to-fish maps and tackle to take home. Every youth took home a fishing prize from the Bison City Tackle Treasure Chest. The kids and parents were ALL WINNERS! This special youth event was coordinated by the Bison City Rod & Gun Club with extra special thanks and support from Cabela s, the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen, WNY Safari Club, Crow s Nest Fishing Club, East Aurora Fish & Game, First Ward Community Center, Sahlen's Meat Packing, the Future Fisherman Foundation of America, the Norby Antonik family, Pure Fishing, Weekley s Bait and 38 volunteers who donated their time to help our youth and their families learn more about fun of the outdoors through fishing! Thanks TEAM! Dave & Rose Barus 2015 Program Chairpersons

18 Teach-Me-To-Fish Clinic at Tifft Nature Preserve 2015 Magical Fishing Moments for 241 Learning To Fish! June 13, 2015; 81 kids registered; 11 volunteers; 7-Learning Station format! There was excitement! There was expectation! There was also a nasty forecast of possible rain, thunder and high wind too that held youth attendees this year to under 100. Some 81 girls and boys from the Buffalo urban area challenged the weather ringmaster and were wide-eyed and ready for the outdoor action challenge of Fishing. The clinic challenges kids to encounter the adventure of a series of 7 Learning Stations. Encouraged by the adults, the kids learned about the science, biology and physics that comprise the basic secrets of how to catch fish. They explored the exciting life cycles of fish, arthropods, invertebrates and other pond life at Lake Kristy, part of the 246 acre Tifft Nature Preserve. Attendees lined up right out the main entrance door to the registration station in the lobby of the new and exciting Tifft Nature Preserve Learning Center Lodge. Rose Barus and Evie Derry provided free fishing beads to all the kids with information of the good news for outdoor adventure and happy fishing fun just ahead. The Learning Stations were expanded to include Tifft Goes Green, with Tifft Learning Facility Director, Meghan Dye, who explained the modern efficiency of geothermal and solar energy with LED light bulbs and other manners of the evolution for modern energy saving. Kids learned about Knot-Tying, learning to tie a Palomar Knot with Russ Johnson and Bob Carlson. At the Plastic Baits station, kids learned to rig a Cabela s plastic worm and jig tail on a hook with master-angler, Paul Stoos. At the Fish & Fauna station, DEC Biologist Mike Todd and intern Alex Kulakowski explained identifying traits of common fish species, aquatic insects and other pond life in a friendly faceto-face discussion. Joe Fischer provided Where-To- Fish details for Erie County sites and answered curious questions from the kids and adults too. Jeff Jondle taught kids the right way to cast a fishing line, then the kids tried it until they were satisfied they could achieve the same feat on the lake. Bass Angler Professional, Scott Callen, provided the kids and adults hands-on lessons on How- To-Fish, explaining bobber stop adjustments, hook size choices and fishing essentials, all from his 18-foot bass boat, where parents had lots of questions about modern electronics. At the Live Bait Station, Tom Fischer provided a fresh supply of more than 500 worms to the youngsters where they were also offered a free rod/reel to borrow for the day. Here too, the kids learned how to bait a hook with live worms all donated by Weekley s Wholesale Bait in Hamburg, New York.

19 Junior Bassmaster, Collin Voss, helped kids find their confidence as he provided hearty congratulations and identified, measured, recorded and placed the fish that kids caught into the aerated Lunker Pool. Kids that did not catch a fish could view fish that lived in the lake. The Lunker Pool was hopping with fish! The kids caught yellow perch, bluegills, sunfish, rock bass and largemouth bass, mostly using live worms. More than 100 fish were measured through the event, including nearly 50 kids who caught their first fish ever! At the end of the 4-hour session, kids that did not catch a fish were asked to help put the fish from the Lunker Pool back into the lake, instilling the idea of Catch & Release. The biggest fish landed was a 14-inch largemouth bass, the smallest fish was a 3-3/4 sunfish, that viewers had to search to find! Both youth catch entries were judged to be an instant winner and the kids that landed these fish were awarded a brand new rod/reel rig to a rousing round of audience applause. Every boy and girl that attended the outreach fishing event was awarded a Shakespeare, Mitchell or Zebco rod/reel rig drawn by random raffle. That kept the kids who successfully completed the expanded program on the edge of their seats until their name was picked, followed by yelps, screams and verbal expressions of complete happiness from the kids as their names were drawn. Parents and kids all enjoyed Sahlen's backyard barbecue hot dogs, thanks to chefs Hal Lawrence, Joe McAdam and Willie Sieber. Special thanks to our event sponsors at Pure Fishing, Cabela s, WNY Safari Club, Weekley s Wholesale Bait, Triple- S, Crow s Nest, Bison City Rod & Gun, Will Elliott (Buffalo News), the Future Fishermen Foundation of America, to moms & dads, and most of all, to our determined volunteers who donated their Saturday to help kids learn more about how to have fun in the outdoors through fishing. God Bless! Thanks TEAM! Dave Barus 2015 Federation coordinator. Mike Todd 2015 NYSDEC coordinator.

20 Buffalo Harbor State Park Access Improvement Meeting Meeting Minutes Date: June 24, Meeting started: 7:06 p.m. Location: Southtowns Walleye Clubhouse, 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg, NY, Objective: Discuss CHANGES MADE that have created safetyrelated distress for taxpayer shareholders with specific concern for security, cost and user well-being for trailered recreational boat access and accident-free parking at Buffalo Harbor State Park. Attendees: Scott Callen - Erie County Bassmasters, Bass Pro; Chris Guenther director, Southtowns Walleye; Dave Barus - Erie County Fish Advisory Board, Erie County Federation of Sportsmen, Bison City Rod & Gun, East Aurora Fish and Game, Northern Chautauqua County Conservation Club, Syndicated Outdoor Columnist as AKA Forrest Fisher: affiliated with Professional Outdoor Media Association, Outdoor Writers Association of America, Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers, New York State Association of Outdoor Writers, others; Scott Gauld - ECFAB, WNY Bassmasters, Bass Pro; Patrick Slosser - WNY Bassmasters; Kent Kaczowski - Secretary Erie County Bassmasters; Mike Schmidt President, Erie County Bassmasters; Larry Ash President, Niagara Frontier Bassmasters; Kent Christy Treasurer, New York State B.A.S.S. Federation., Niagara Frontier Bassmasters; Ed Gwynn, director, Southtowns Walleye; Dave Gwynn director, Southtowns Walleye; Rob Crowe - director, Southtowns Walleye; Paul Stoos Erie County Fish Advisory Board, NYS Region 9 Fish & Wildlife Management Board, Alden Rod & Gun Club; Dave Signs - Regional Manager for Safe Harbor Marina; Cody Meyers - representative for NYS Assemblyman Sean Ryan; Tom Marks Erie County Fish Advisory Board, director Great Lakes Sportfishing Council; David Woodworth President, Southtowns Walleye Association; Jack Schultz Secretary, Southtowns Walleye Association; Bob Merritt Treasurer, Southtowns Walleye Association; Franklin Thompson director, Southtowns Walleye Association; Ron Wutz director, Southtowns Walleye Association; Several others - various organizations Information Shared Dave Signs is regional manager for SAFE HARBOR MARINA and addressed the group with a brief statement of how the marina is coordinated as follows: Safe Harbor was awarded the NYS contract in late 2014 and has observed function of the old NFTA operation from September 2014 through the end of the season. The SAFE HARBOR MARINA contract includes the property area from the Freezer Queen building to the north to the C-lot parking area to the south. The Blot and D-lot parking areas are officially part of the David Sign, Safe Harbor Marina Manager State Park. The marina is operated with paid staff, staff is local. Safe Harbor Marina was accepted by the State of New York as the contractor for leasing the marina function and operation of the State Park, and this includes boat launch portion for angle boaters and recreational boaters and the boat slip-holder portion of the State Park to safely operate the facility for a profit. The Marina is operated as a private enterprise, not as a part of NYS Parks, as per the negotiated contract. Safe Harbor Marina will regulate cost fees for recreational boaters and slip holders, and organize function of traffic flow, suggest and recommend improvements for security, parking, operational efficiency and safety. Buffalo State Park Marina is home to 1,037 boat-holder slips. Please note that the NYS State contract with Safe Harbor does not call for Safe Harbor Marina to run a shuttle. Safe Harbor must allow free

21 launching for holders of Empire Pass, Veteran Pass and Golden Pass. In 2017, there is a plan to build all new docks that will not be required to be removed during winter, improving the operation. Rich Davenport and Scott Callen stated: Erie County is home to more than 105,000 registered boat owners. Buffalo Harbor State Park boat launch is the singular boat launch facility in Erie County capable of handling state, regional, national and international angler fishing tournaments and waterway events, such as B.A.S.S., FLW, Crappiethon, Redman BassEye, Bass America, Cabela s, many other types of organized watercraft-related activities. Inefficient operation of this facility will generate a negative economic impact for Western New York. If Safe Harbor Marina is here to make a profit and make money, it is the responsibility of the management to make sure that their Scott Callen, Bass Pro operation is maximizing the potential for successful investment. Use of multiple shuttles would help improve the boat launch traffic flow and positively affect the economic impact possible. Specific Concerns Discussed 1) Boat ramp use, inbound and outbound confusion (8 ramps in and 8ramps out): new system red/green is non-standard with buoy marking systems; long delays at ramp, long boat in/out lines 2) Lack of personnel shuttle - was previously utilized to transport anglers to and from boat launch to parking lot D. Older or handicapped anglers are delaying efficiency of boat launch 3) Traffic flow changes - Safe parking for tow vehicle and boat trailer. 4) Property location of State Park Land vs leased land for marina operation not well known or misunderstood by Marina personnel 5) Assemblyman Sean Ryan has responded to coordinate communication with other legislators and NYS Parks. Lack of response from legislative supporters of the State Park operation. Congressman Brian Higgins, Assemblyman Michael Kearns, Senator Tim Kennedy, local Erie County legislators. 6) Need a Prep-Area to be identified, not at the boat ramp. 7) The C-lot is too big and is designated for slip holders only. 8) Need better signage all the way around. 9) Be great to drive in past A-lot, allowing anglers to buy bait, stop at restaurant for breakfast sandwich, etc., launch. More for discussion. 10) Some boat-slip holders and non-angler recreational boaters dislike trailered angler boats because they say it ties up the marina and they do not like it. 11) Consider raising the price of the launch from $7 to $8. 12) Consider offering clean-fish vendor to allow station to stay open later and not close at 6:00 p.m. 13) Restrooms in fish cleaning building is open to boat launch users 24 hours a day. 14) Clients of charter captains are now required to park in D-lot with no shuttle. Inefficient, unsafe. Consider revise to parking area, consider use of slip-holder parking area (C-lot). 15) Concerns for late night launch site delay, and related loss of security, to reach parking lot and return, takes minutes and there is $20,000 of gear that could be taken in short order during that time. Conclusions/Agreements: