By Bruce Ross, Executive Director bruceross@wi.rr.com
This article originally appeared in Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s June, 2021 Newsletter edition.
Since the pandemic first impacted us all back in March of last year, we’ve been saying how nice it will be to get back to “normal.” And now, with the vaccines and the lifting of public health restrictions, normal has come rushing back, maybe before I was really ready for it.
We’re certainly excited about the golf outings, sporting clay shoots, banquets, and bashes that are coming rapid-fire now. Chapters that had to postpone their events have been anxious to get back in the game. And in this weird extended “off season” decided they wanted to do more, so we are actually introducing many new events throughout the state… and meanwhile, the organizational development activities (such as state-level committees or the EXPO) that came to the fore during the pandemic are now gathering steam to demand a lot of energy. It’s gonna be a great summer!
Another great, jam-packed issue of the newsletter:
- The EXPO is three months away, but we are offering two great giveaways depending on how you want to participate:
Just in time for Father’s Day: Buy two tickets now and get a free 3-month subscription to onX, the world’s premier outdoor mapping application, just in time for hunting season. And then attend onX’s presentation at the EXPO on how digital mapping can enhance your hunt. Thank you onX for supporting this endeavor!!- FREE EXPO SWAG: Get your free EXPO entrance and limited-edition EXPO hat by volunteering to help out at the EXPO.
- Here’s what’s going on at the EXPO.
- Crane information: We continue to gather and share data about the sandhill crane population in Wisconsin, and the considerations associated with establishing a hunt in this state like many other states enjoy. Todd Schaller’s article last month got re-published in the Wisconsin Outdoor News last week, so there’s clear interest in the topic. This month, Todd focuses his attention on crane biologic factors that are unique to Wisconsin that could influence the outline of a sandhill crane hunt here.
- And there’s good news of the 10-year effort to adjust the state duck stamp for the 23 years of inflationary erosion since it was last adjusted.
Want to own original waterfowl artwork that has been a piece of history? WWA is pleased to offer an original painting (NOT a print) by Les Didier for auction through through an on-line auction. Check out this once in a lifetime chance to own a piece of WWA history in an online auction.- In a former life, I was a US Coast Guard Maritime Law Enforcement officer – and eventually ran the CG’s Lake Michigan operations. That experience tells me that things happen very quickly and lives are always at risk on the water, so preparation and attention is the key to safe and enjoyable time afloat. So with the warmer weather upon us, check out the great boating tips by State Boating Law Administrator Warden Kuhn.
- Our state-level committees are really sinking their teeth into the opportunities an organization like WWA offers for our members and volunteers in habitat, Fundraising, Education, Policy, Membership/Communications and the Waterfowl Hunters EXPO. Plenty of room for guys or gals who want to get in on it at the ground floor – drop me a line.
- “Best Dog Ever” meets my personal reality: You might recall I picked up a new pup this winter – Tack. It was always my intent to send him to professional training, but of course, I had the goal of sending him as the best prepared new school entrant. This past week, Tack went off to Full Throttle Kennels, and I’m not sure I hit my goal. And of course, there’s a story – read it here. There will be future articles about the experience of sending a dog to professional training: reasonable expectations, the process, and how to get the most benefit from your investment.
Well, maybe there is a lot happening at your WWA! But I could still be better organized… thank goodness for Kelcy!