LWF 64th Convention Freedom to Hunt Elmer’s Island Campaign€¦ · LWF 64th Convention Freedom to Hunt Elmer’s Island Campaign NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PAID Permit #1393 Baton

V o l u m e 3 1N u m b e r 1 F e b r u a r y , 2 0 0 3

LWF 64th Convention

Freedom to Hunt

Elmer’s Island Campaign

NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

PAIDPermit #1393

Baton Rouge, LA

LWF 64th Convention

Freedom to Hunt

Elmer’s Island Campaign

C O N T E N T S

D E P A R T M E N T S

3 From The President and Executive Director

14 Tibby Sez

15 Club News

F E A T U R E S

4 Elmer’s Island Campaign

5 Freedom to Hunt, Fish, and Trap

7 Candidates for LWF Executive Committee

10 Directors Elected

12 LWF 64th Annual Convention

12 Bass in the Basin

13 Rock Wren Sighted

Official Publication ofthe Louisiana Wildlife Federation

VOL. 31 February 2003 NO.1

Editorial Creed: To create andencourage an awareness among the peopleof Louisiana of the need for wise use andproper management of those resources ofthe earth upon which the lives and welfareof all people depend: the soil, the air, thewater, the forests, the minerals, the plantlife, and the wildlife.

Magazine StaffRandy P. Lanctot: Editor

Louisiana Wildlife Federation magazine (ISSN0738-8098) is the official publication of theLouisiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. TheFederation office is located at 337 SouthAcadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, Louisiana70806. All editorial and subscriptioncorrespondence should be mailed to P.O. Box65239 Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA70896-5239 (Phone/Fax 225-344-6707;mailto:[email protected]). Allmanuscripts submitted for publication aresubject to editing or rewriting.

Postmaster: Send change of address to:Louisiana Wildlife Federation, P.O. Box 65239Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239.

Membership: For information, write to:Louisiana Wildlife Federation, P.O. Box 65239Audubon Station, Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239. Phone/Fax: (225) 344-6707.mailto:[email protected]

Page 2 Louisiana Wildlife Federation, February 2003

On the Cover …Once again a fixture on the Louisianacoast, the Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis)welcomes all to the place where land meets sea. But notlong ago this, our state bird, vanished from the mangrovelined barrier islands and beaches, the victim of overuse ofpersistent pesticides washed from crops in theMississippi Valley and flushed down to the Gulf by theBig River. The toxins accumulated in the fish the pelicanate, and in turn, caused reproductive failure throughoutthe population. They were GONE! With the help of theState of Florida, and the good work of the Fur and RefugeDivision of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife andFisheries, and many years of recovery, this important partof our wildlife heritage has been restored. Photo by JonBarry

mailto:[email protected]


It’s already mid-February, but itseems like yesterday was New Years.Know the feeling? It’s a compressed timeof year, a time for finishing up and gettingready. Here at the LWF we’re putting thefinal touches on the plans for our annualmeeting. The judges have just met toselect the conservation award winnerswho will be honored at the conventionawards banquet, and we’re monitoring theprefiled bills that will be considered in the

upcoming legislative session - just a few sofar that pertain to conservation, naturalresources and the environment, but therewill be a lot more coming in this electionyear.

In an effort to publish a magazinebefore the convention, we have shortenedit to 16 pages for this edition. That does-n’t leave much space for this column sinceit’s the last copy to go in and we’re alreadyout out of space by about 8 pages. Noroom to report on my duck season, whichturned out great for me because for thefirst time in 4 seasons there was enoughwater in the backwater pond I hunt toattract a few ducks. The action was slowin general, except for early bird woodducks, but it’s a lot better having a placeto go with a chance to call in a few ducks

The last quarter of 2002 was good forthe LWF. Membership renewals were strongwith many members upgrading to the spon-sor level. We were joined by a new affiliate,the Pontchartrain Hunting Retriever Club,

Inc. Welcome to the Club and its president,

Mark Medwick. There are varied interests inour organization, and this group will cer-tainly broaden these interests. I am lookingforward to working with our new affiliate.As I like to say, “Don’t watch us grow, comegrow with us.”

The LWF received a corporate contri-bution last month from Vulcan Chemical inGeismar, Louisiana. Our executive director,Randy Lanctot and I were presented the giftby Vance Gordon, Senior EnvironmentalSafety and Health Specialist, and RussBourgeois, WISER Facilitor. While we werethere, we also visited Vulcan Chemical’saward-winning wildlife area, located near theplant. A special thanks to Vulcan for its sup-port of our organization. Vulcan also gener-ously supports the activities of the EastAscension Sportsman’s League, LWF’s affili-ate. Several of EASL’s members areemployed by Vulcan.

Committees of the Federation are func-tioning very well. The recently establishedDeer Management Committee was formedto review issues concerning Louisiana’s deerherd, including health and hunting issues.Through the committee’s initiative, LWF isengaged in a campaign to raise funds fromdeer hunters to support the LouisianaDepartment of Wildlife and Fisheries’ effortsto monitor the deer herd for ChronicWasting Disease.

Randy and I attended the Jefferson Rodand Gun Club’s December awards banquet.Clinton Mouser, LWF District 2 Vice-President, received the club’s Lucien DupuyAward, the club’s highest honor.Congratulations Clint, keep up the goodwork! Attending our clubs’ functions, Ilearn of the many conservation activitieseach club has and I’m always impressed withhow many good volunteer conservationistswe have in our organization and state.

Other committees submitting reports

F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T

Joe L.Herring

F R O M T H E E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R

RandyLanctot

Continued on page 14

Louisiana Wildlife Federation, February 2003, Page 3


Vulcan Chemical’s Senior ESH Specialist, Vance Gordon (L)and WISER Facilitator, Russ Bourgeois present Vulcan’sCorporate Sponsor donation to LWF President Joe L.Herring.

At the Jefferson Rod & Gun Club’s December awardsbanquet, long time club leader, Clint Mouser (R) waspresented with the Lucien Dupuy Award for outstandingservice by banquet MC, Jerald Horst.


by Keith Saucier

In last summer’s issue of this publicationthere was an article detailing the LouisianaWildlife Federation’s (LWF) efforts to reopenthe area known as “Elmer’s Island”. Securing theconservation of Elmer’s Island and reopening itfor compatible public use is one of LWF’s high-est priorities for this year.

Since the death of the Elmer Family mem-ber who managed the property, almost two yearsago, Elmer’s Island has been closed to the publicand is being advertised “For Sale”. The prospectof this unique area being purchased by develop-ers and permanently lost to the public and thetraditional uses of fishing, birding and campingis very real. Fortunately, the owner has expresseda desire to sell to the state or other entity that willconserve the area and manage it for those tradi-tional uses, maintaining the primitive characterthat has been enjoyed by so many for genera-tions. But no one will wait forever, and as longas Elmer’s Island remains for sale, it remains injeopardy. Our state government needs to moveon this, NOW!

In addition to the resolution that waspassed at the Louisiana Wildlife Federation’sannual convention last year, LWF has sent to theGovernor and other state agency officials, anumber of ideas and proposals for how toacquire and manage Elmer’s Island. Our firstchoice would be to keep the “island” primitive,

undeveloped, and its five miles of beaches openfor surf-fishing, crabbing, camping and birding.

Unfortunately, the Governor andLegislature are not going to find the money todo this unless they hear from their constituents.To help facilitate this, LWF is beginning a cam-paign that will inform people, organizations,businesses, and local elected officials of what’s atstake and encourage them to contact the

Governor and state legislators to make their feel-ings known.

We urgently need your help, too. The2003 Regular Session of the LouisianaLegislature will soon begin, and the state’s capi-tal outlay budget is now being prepared. Pleasetake the time (this week) to write a short letter tothe Governor at the address printed here, askingthat the state make a small investment for one ofthe best places in Louisiana for families to enjoythe outdoors together. Make sure you let yourstate representative and senator know, too. Ifyou don’t know how to contact them, ask atyour local library or go to the Legislature’s webpage on the Internet (www.legis.state.la.us),scroll down to the question “Who are your statesenators and representatives” and click on “findout”; type in your street address and zip codeand click “search”; then click on the representa-tive and senator to get their addresses. If youhappen to know them, even better. Give thema call and ask them to help reopen Elmer’sIsland. Tell them this is urgent, something that

can’t wait until the next governor, or the nextyear. By then, the opportunity may be lost.And once it’s lost, we’ll not likely get anotherchance. Please send your letter to:

The Honorable M.J. “Mike” FosterGovernor of LouisianaP. O. Box 94004 Baton Rouge, LA 70804 If you have any questions or would like to

help, please feel free to call the LWF office (225-344-6762); or call/email me personally at(225/647-6653; [email protected]).

What?/Where? Elmer’s Island is an unde-veloped barrier beachfront and wetland areacomprising several hundred acres directly acrossCaminada Pass from Grand Isle, Louisiana. It isa continuation of one of the few land accessiblebeaches in the State of Louisiana. Historically, ithas been available for public camping, fishingand bird watching for a small fee charged by theowner and collected at the gatehouse on theentry road to the area. Elmer’s Island is wellknown for the excellent fishing opportunities ithas historically provided for many popularspecies such as speckled and white trout, floun-der, redfish, channel mullet, black drum, croak-er, Spanish mackerel and many other speciesthat frequent the State’s coastal beaches and pass-es. It also is (or was) a traditional family camp-ing spot and a great place to observe wading,shore and seabirds as well as coastal marine life.It has become part of the natural resource-dependent culture of coastal Louisiana, cher-ished by visitors from throughout the state andmany nonresident anglers. But now it’s “closed”and at risk to an uncertain future.

What Happened? Because of liability con-cerns, Elmer’s Island has been closed by theowner and put on the real estate market; adver-tised as 1,700 acres for an asking price of $6 mil-lion.

Why Take Action? Elmer’s Island is a key-stone feature in a larger vision of a State Seashorethat represents a commitment to preserve andrestore Louisiana’s unique coast. The opportu-nity to acquire it for conservation and publicenjoyment will not last forever. Some parcelsmay have already been sold, so there is urgencyin securing the property if Elmer’s Island is to beconserved and it’s outdoor legacy is to be pre-served for the public’s benefit.

Who? YOUWhen? NOWWrite that letter! You can make a differ-

ence. Thanks.

Elmer’s Island CampaignElmer’s Island Campaign

photo by Chris Dunn


by E. R. “Smitty Smith, III

Personally, I believe freedom is a primalfeeling we learn about when we learn aboutfear. In essence, freedom and fear are contraposed. With fear there can be no freedom andwith freedom there is no fear. Since 9/11 manyof us have realized that freedoms should not betaken lightly, and that certain factions, by theresult of shear numbers or brute force, can andare able to take away the freedoms of others. Afew of the freedoms that hold great meaning inmy life, are the freedoms to hunt, fish, andtrap.

Since our beginnings, we have hunted,fished, and trapped. If any rights are inalien-able, these are. Even so, there are groups thatseek to infringe upon and take away theserights. Anti-hunting, anti-fishing, and anti-trapping predilection is growing and gainingmomentum. Groups like PETA, Friends ofAnimals, etc. have used Hollywood personali-ties to make their stand credible. As forhunters, fisherman, and trappers, too few havespoken out for our cause. Piece by piece, theanti’s will encroach upon our ways of life andbefore we know it, there will be little or nohunting, fishing, or trapping. This is not achicken little syndrome. Think about all of theencroachments upon these activities in recentyears. If you think I am overstating, ask anymember of PETA if they would ban hunting,fishing, or trapping if given a chance. Put sim-ply, others fears will destroy our freedom.

So, in an effort to curtail such senseless-ness, the Louisiana Wildlife Federation withthe help of Senator Joe McPherson and his col-leagues in the Louisiana Legislature, will sup-port legislation to put a proposition before thepeople of Louisiana to amend the constitutionof the State of Louisiana to protect, as a right,our freedom to hunt, fish, and trap. Now, atfirst glance, it appears this legislation should bea “greased pig” and see little or no oppositionin this the “sportsman’s paradise”. However,history has proven this perception wrong.

In the 2001 Regular Session, SenatorMcPherson introduced just such legislation.The proposal was popular in the Senate andpassed overwhelmingly with 29 senators signedon as co-authors. However, by the time the billwas heard in the House committee, controver-sy and confusion had eroded the anticipatedsupport. It seems that the LouisianaDepartment of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF)was apprehensive about the legislation and

wanted to change the word “freedom” to “priv-ilege”. McPherson wouldn’t go along with thatbut, in good faith, he offered another amend-ment to his original bill, based on languageprovided by the LDWF, that assuaged some ofthe agency’s concerns. Problem was, part of theamendment that was adopted would have hadthe effect of expanding the constitutionalauthority of the Louisiana Wildlife andFisheries Commission (Commission) to“supervision of all hunting, and fishing activi-ties, and the allocation of the wildlife of thestate, including all aquatic life.” Allocation ofthe state’s fish and wildlife resources is withinthe Legislature’s, not the Commission’s author-ity. That was problem # 1. Problem # 2 wasthat the Commission has the authority tosupervise and control hunting and fishing for“wild” fish and wildlife, not “farmed” gameand fish species. As any perspicacious personwould note, the Louisiana Department ofAgriculture and Forestry (LDAF) regulates theharvest of certain ranched game and culturedfish, and that agency was not about to have itsauthority diminished by such sleight of hand.

Consequently, after the bill passed theSenate with LDWF’s language attached, a turfwar began, in force. A war whose only casual-ty was our right to hunt, fish, and trap.Lousyana politics at its finest. Fear, once againovercoming our freedom.

When the House committee adopted anamendment at the request of SenatorMcPherson that put the bill back in its originalposture, simply to propose an amendment tothe Louisiana Constitution guaranteeing ourcitizens the freedom to fish, hunt and trap, itwas opposed by the head of the LDWF. Thehead of LDAF had already worked the com-mittee against the bill because of the LDWFlanguage added in the Senate. Even thoughthe House committee agreed to strip that lan-guage, the controversy had become more thanthe committee wanted to deal with.

Another group that expressed reservationswith the proposed constitutional amendmentwas the Louisiana Landowners Association(LLA). They wanted to allow the freedom tohunt, fish, and trap only on state land andwater bottoms. Here again, fear overcomingour freedom.

To address the fears of the LLA, it can benoted that Article 1, Section 4 of the LouisianaConstitution is explicit in its statement of theright of every person to acquire, own, control,use, protect, and enjoy private property. This

would include restricting access for variouspurposes including restricting access for hunt-ing, fishing, or trapping. Further, privatelandowners also need the protection that thisconstitutional amendment affords to guaranteethem the freedom to hunt, fish, and trap ontheir own lands. Another compelling consid-eration for landowners is that the anti-hunt-ing/fishing/trapping movement will hurt pri-vate landowners the most because many ofthem have an economic stake in these activitieswhich generate revenue (leases) and controlpredation (trapping) of the habitat on theirland.

A constitutional amendment to protectthe freedom to hunt, fish, and trap would notbe unique to Louisiana. Several states alreadyhave protections in their constitutions. Thosestates include Alabama, California, Minnesota,North Dakota, Rhode Island, Vermont, andVirginia. Texas, Wisconsin, and Indiana areattempting to join those ranks as we speak.Currently, groups like the IGFA, BASS, CCA,ASA, and others are working at the nationallevel to protect our freedom to fish, by seekingpassage of the Freedom to Fish Act inCongress. These types of legislation are gain-ing momentum and they can be successfullyimplemented. Hence, there should be noexcuses for those of us fighting the good fighthere in Louisiana.

The LWF is going to need all the help wecan get in the upcoming session to pass thisconstitutional amendment resolution. Weneed to get past the petty turf wars. We needto bring together all the stakeholder groups andthe legislators and work closely with them togain passage of this resolution. The concernsof all groups can be met by keeping this simple.Our forefathers understood this, and so shouldwe. They feared nothing, they understoodfreedom at it’s purest. All we need is a simplepiece of legislation that will put the questionon the ballot to give us the freedom to do whatwe have done since the rudiments of ourspecies showed up on Earth....hunt, fish, andtrap. This time, no fear - just freedom. Couldit be any simpler?

Note: Anyone wishing to help with thislegislation is welcomed to contact the LWFand join our team to see this CA resolutionpassed. Once accomplished, the propositionwill go to a vote by the people of Louisiana. Atthat point, a lot more work will also have to bedone to see that this amendment passes onelection day.

Freedom To Hunt, Fish and Trap

Officers:

President Joe L. Herring, 1021 RodneyDr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808;225 (res.) 766-0519

1st-V.P. Elbridge R. “Smitty” Smith III415 Azalea Dr., New Iberia,LA 70563; 337 (res.) 364-9341


2nd-V.P. Virginia Burkett, Ph.D, P.O.Box 1557, Many, LA 71449;318 (wk.) 256-5628


Secretary Jay V. Huner, Ph.D, 200Merchant’s Blvd, Apt. 137,Lafayette, LA 70508; 337(res.) 234-0682(wk.) 394-7508


Treasurer Eugene J. Dauzat, Jr., 608Meursault, Kenner, LA 70065;504 (res.) 468-8408

Executive Committee:Above 5 Officers and 4 Persons Listed Below:

Bobby G. Fulmer, M.D., P.O.Box 99, New Roads, LA 70760;225 (res.) 638-8869

Keith R. Saucier, 13086 SheLee Place, Gonzales, LA 70737;225 (res.) 647-6653 (wk.)242-5561 (fax) 677-7416


Edgar F. Veillon, Rep. toNWF, 4616 South Roman St.,New Orleans, LA 70125; 504(res.) 899-4049 (wk.) 454-1212(fax) 885-4887

Kathy Wascom, 1255Aberdeen Ave., Baton Rouge,LA 70808; 225 (res.) 344-4313 (wk.) 231-3731 (fax)344-0014


Executive Director

Randy P. Lanctot, P.O. Box65239 Audubon Station,Baton Rouge, LA 70896-5239Office: 337 South AcadianThruway, Baton Rouge, LA70806; 225 (wk.) 344-6762(fax) 344-6707 (res.) 346-0752


District Vice-Presidents:

District 1 Vacant (St. Tammany,Orleans, St. Bernard,Plaquemines Parishes)

District 2 Clinton Mouser, 4428 TobyLane, Metairie, LA 70003;504 (res.) 887-8475

mailto:[email protected](Jefferson, Lafourche, St.Charles,St. James, St. John theBaptistParishes)

District 3 Chad LeBlanc, 1604Crestwell, New Iberia, LA70560; 337 (res.) 367-9873(Lafayette, Vermilion, St.Martin, Terrebonne, Iberia, St.Mary, Iberville, AssumptionParishes)

District 4 Vacant (Caddo, Bossier,Webster, Claiborne, Lincoln,Bienville, Jackson Parishes)

District 5 Martha Ann Messinger, 2022Gemini Dr., Bastrop, LA71220; 318 (res.) 281-0113(fax) 283-8111

mailto:[email protected](Union, Morehouse, EastCarroll, West Carroll,Ouachita, Richland,Madison, Caldwell, Franklin,Tensas Parishes)

District 6 Francis Gautreaux, 12380Fernand Rd., Gonzales, LA70737; 225 (res.) 673-4991

mailto:[email protected](Washington, Tangipahoa, St.Helena, Livingston, Ascension,East Feliciana, West Feliciana,East Baton Rouge, West BatonRouge, Pointe CoupeeParishes)

District 7 Jerome C. Haas, Jr., 52Horseshoe Lane, Sulphur, LA70663; 337/625-4232

mailto:[email protected](Beauregard, Allen, Calcasieu,Cameron, Jefferson Davis,Acadia Parishes)

District 8 Ken Dancak, Ph.D., 224Shady Crest Lane, Pineville,LA 71360; 318/487-8879 (fax)318/473-7117

mailto:[email protected](Grant, LaSalle, Catahoula,Concordia, Rapides, Avoyelles,Evangeline, St. LandryParishes)

District 9 Sharon Miller, 345 Point 3Dr., Florien, LA 71429;318/565-4990

mailto:[email protected](DeSoto, Red River, Sabine,Natchitoches, Winn, VernonParishes)

Louisiana Wildlife FederationLouisiana Wildlife Federation















The following persons have announcedtheir intentions to seek election or reelectionto the offices of leadership of the LouisianaWildlife Federation. The elections will takeplace at the Board of Directors Luncheonduring LWF’s 64th Annual Meeting,February 28, March 1 & 2 at the HolidayInn Downtown/Riverfront in Shreveport.Each candidate will be formally interviewedby the nominations Committee on Fridayevening of the convention. Any other LWFboard member who is interested in runningfor one of these positions should attend thismeeting. Nominations from the floor willalso be accepted at the luncheon.Candidates will be available to talk withother LWF members at the hospitality func-tion on Friday evening after the openingboard meeting.

Joe L. Herring - Candidate for LWF President

Thanks for your vote and support lastyear in electing me as your President of theLouisiana Wildlife Federation. I am nowasking for your vote and support for a sec-ond term as President of your organization.

I have attended meetings of theLouisiana Wildlife and FisheriesCommission representing the LouisianaWildlife Federation for the past year. I havealso attended meetings of the AtchafalayaBasin Advisory Council and several of thesub-committees of this council, worked atEarth Day and other activities representingthe Louisiana Wildlife Federation. My

attendance at state board meetings and exec-utive committee meetings since my electionto an office has been 100% over the past 11years, with the exception of one speciallycalled committee meeting. I have alsoattended several Federation club meetingsand have met with parish groups attemptingto establish new clubs.

I have been an active member of theLWF for 48 years attending all conventionsin that span of years. I have held offices in 3separate affiliates and the state organization.Over the years I have brought many newmembers into the Federation and believe,with some effort through existing clubs, wecan establish a working club in each parishof our great state. This would certainly helpthe LWF and the citizens of our state onaccomplishing many of our goals in conser-vation and management of the state’s natur-al resources. There is strength in numbers.As I state to individuals and groups, don’t sitback and watch the LWF grow, come andgrow with us.

I have enjoyed my first year as Presidentand consider working for the LWF a greathonor and privilege. The people we workwith are top of the line. Over the years Ihave chaired many committees of theFederation such as Education, NationalWildlife Week, Forest Resources, Archery,National Hunting and Fishing Day and oth-ers.

We have excellent leaders and staff inthe LWF and I will continue my support forthem and working with them. We have agood organization but we can strive to makeit better.

As a wildlife manager I intend to workclosely with the national resources agenciesof our state. This includes the Departmentsof Wildlife and Fisheries, NationalResources, Environmental Quality andAgriculture and Forestry, along with parishand federal agencies. We have some verygood programs operating in our state thatshould be expanded, while others should bereviewed for their value.

I am also a member of other state,regional, national and international organi-zations that at times can help our state on

conservation and management activities. Ofall the organizations in our state workingwith legislators and other groups, the LWF isone of the most respected, if not the most.The LWF over the years has gained the hon-orable distinction of being a leader due toour present and past leadership.

The LWF is not a one goal organiza-tion. We represent the interests of all thepeople, all the natural resources and all phas-es of conservation and management of theseresources. We advocate the game, fish, non-game, endangered species, forestry, environ-ment, camping, hiking, and on behalf ofeveryone interested in our great out-of-doors.

With your advice, counsel, recommen-dations, help and support I will continue tomaintain and increase the Federation’s lead-ership in conservation.

E. R. “Smitty” Smith - Candidate forLWF 1st Vice President

Thank you for allowing me to serve theLouisiana Wildlife Federation as vice presi-dent over the past year. I currently represent

LWF as a member of the Pesticide AdvisoryCommission, and as the alternate represen-tative to the National Wildlife Federationand the Management Conference of theBarataria-Terrebonne National EstuaryProgram. I am also a a member of theCitizens Advisory Committee of theAtchafalaya Basin Program. I serve on the

Candidates Announce For LWFLeadership Roles


LWF Board of Directors as one of the twoat-large directors representing contributingmembers from District 3.

It has been both a pleasure and anhonor to serve the LWF. My goals are tocontinue pursuing the White Lake issue andto work on passage of a constitutionalamendment to give Louisiana citizens theright to hunt, fish, and trap. I also hope tocontinue working with the NWF and ourown LWF Deer Management Committee onthe problem of chronic wasting disease.

This last year has seen many changes inmy life, including the birth of my first child,Emma. This event, more than any other hasmotivated me to pursue my conservationefforts with even more fervor. I want to seethat this state remains a sportsman’s paradisefor my little girl. As I have stated before, Inever want to tell her about how good thehunting and fishing used to be. The way Isee conservation is simple. You are eitherpart of the solution or part of the problem.With your help, I hope we can all be part ofthe solution and enjoy Louisiana as the truesportsman’s paradise for generations tocome.

Virginia R. Burkett, Ph. D. – Candidatefor LWF 2nd Vice President

Thank you for allowing me to serve as

your 2nd Vice President during the past year.I have enjoyed working with you all duringthis time, as well as during the past 20 yearsthat I have participated in LWF activities.The past year has been an interesting periodfor the conservation community here inLouisiana and, as usual, the LWF has beenwell represented on a wide range of issuesthat concern our membership, from NorthLouisiana to South, from waste disposal toland acquisition.

My 25 years of work experience hasbeen devoted to research and management

of fish and wildlife and their natural habi-tats. I have served as Director of theLouisiana Coastal Zone ManagementProgram and Assistant Director of theLouisiana Geological Survey. I also served asDeputy Secretary and, subsequently, asSecretary of the Louisiana Department ofWildlife and Fisheries. I presently work forthe U.S. Department of Interior, where Iserve as Chief of the Forest Ecology Branchof the National Wetlands Research Center. Ihave served as a member of the LouisianaForestry Commission, the Gulf StatesMarine Fisheries Commission and the Gulfof Mexico Fishery Management Council. Ireceived my doctorate in forestry fromStephen F. Austin State University inNacogdoches Texas in 1996.

I feel that the LWF is the most impor-tant, effective statewide conservation organi-zation in Louisiana. It’s leadership andstructure – built on a solid coalition ofsportsmen’s groups and conservation-orient-ed affiliates – affords a unique and valuableforum for individuals and organizations towork together to insure the future of all ofour state’s renewable natural resources.

Jay V. Huner - Candidate for LWFSecretary

I am currently serving my 4th term asLWF District 7 Director at-large and com-pleting my third term as a member of theExecutive Committee. I also serve on theLWF Development Committee and am a lifemember of LWF. Assuming a leadership rolein LWF requires serving in various capacitiesto acquire experience; I believe that a secondterm as LWF secretary will provide addition-al experience to make it possible for me toprovide better service to LWF.

I consider LWF to be an important

NGO (non-government organization)Steward of the Environment to ensure per-petuation of Louisiana’s wildlife resources forboth consumptive and non-consumptiveuses. Private lands are absolutely critical tocontinued health of wildlife and fisheriesresources in Louisiana. I have spent manyyears interacting with private land ownersand governmental agencies to ensure wiseland management practices. I believe thatserving as your Secretary will assist me incontinuing this important work, especiallywhere the issue of conflicts between wildlifeand crops are concerned.

Eugene J. Dauzat, Jr. - Candidate forLWF Treasurer

I currently am Treasurer of the LWFand would like to serve another term in thisoffice. As there is no term limit for this posi-tion, the treasurer can remain on the LWFexecutive committee without having to

move up through the ranks to the office ofpresident, or displace another executivecommittee member. I would like to bereelected to this position to remain a part ofthe executive committee thereby remainingactively involved in the business and opera-tion of the LWF. Having held the otheroffices of the Federation including 3 terms asPresident, I feel certain that I can lend valu-able input to our organization as well as offerassistance to the other elected officers and at-large executive committee members.

Edgar F. Veillon - Candidate for LWFRepresentative to the

National Wildlife FederationBecause of my 44 years of continuous

involvement in the affairs of the LouisianaWildlife Federation (LWF), and my 21 pre-vious terms in this capacity, I feel that I am

qualified and prepared to represent the LWFin an effective manner.

The following account of my activitiesin behalf of the Federation during 2002 isindicative of my interest, and effort, towardfulfilling the stated goals of the LWF: “toprotect the State’s natural resources, andyour right to enjoy them”.

NATIONAL WILDLIFE FEDERA-TION: While serving as the LWF’s represen-tative to the National Wildlife Federation(NWF), I attended NWF’s Annual Meetingin Stone Mountain Georgia (March 7-10,

2002) and served on the SustainableCommunities Committee. I also attended abreakout session on “Greening of the Corps”and offered some comments from manyyears interacting with them.

LOUISIANA WILDLIFE FEDERA-TION: I attended all meetings of the LWFExecutive Committee and Board ofDirectors, as well as several meetings of theJefferson Rod and Gun Club, which is myhome club. I served as chairman of LWF’sMembership Development and FundraisingCommittee which is responsible for mem-bership recruitment. The committee con-tinued to pursue the establishment of anendowmwnt for the LWF. I personally gen-erated $2,300 in contributions from newsustaining and sponsor members, andrecruited 2 new affiliate clubs to the LWF.

As chairman of the LWF’sEnvironmental Quality Committee, I inter-acted with several allied organizationsincluding: Coalition to Restore CoastalLouisiana, Lake Pontchartrain BasinFoundation, Atchafalaya Basin Program,Alaska Wilderness League, Mississippi River

Basin Alliance, Jean Lafitte NationalHistorical Park and Preserve, and DucksUnlimited. As a result of this interaction, Iwas able to address several conservationissues including coastal land loss, deadzones, revitalization of the LakePontchartrain Basin, implementation of theAtchafalaya Basin Master Plan, protectingthe coastal plain of the Arctic Refuge, theecology of the Jean Lafitte Park, and water-fowl preservation through the proactiveagenda of Ducks Unlimited.

The foregoing activities are indicative ofmy commitment to the Louisiana WildlifeFederation and its many-faceted program.Thanks for your support in the past, and beassured that I will continue to work forLouisiana and the LWF.

Kathy R. Wascom – Candidate for LWFExecutive Committee

Thirteen years ago, I became an activemember of the Louisiana WildlifeFederation. I felt it (LWF) was an organiza-tion that had the ability, knowledge andpolitical influence to really make a differenceon environmental and conservation issues. Iworked my way up through the ranks andserved as LWF President for two years(1998/99) and have served as a past presi-dent and at-large member on the LWFExecutive Committee since then. I have also

served as chairperson of the Coalition toRestore Coastal Louisiana during 2000/01.The Louisiana Wildlife Federation was oneof the founding organizations of theCoalition. I have served on LWF’sConservation Education and DevelopmentCommittees and have lobbied the Louisiana

Legislature. I have represented LWF on sev-eral external committees from Oil FieldWaste to the Baton Rouge Earth Day Boardand am currently serving on the Governor’sCommission on DEQ Funding andEfficiency and on the steering committee ofthe National Wildlife Federation’s CorpsReform Network.

There’s always so much to be done inLouisiana – from coastal erosion to the verybasics of environmental education. Thereare not many organizations in Louisiana thatcan sustain this enormous effort. LWF has,and will continue because of the tenacity ofits members.

Bobby G. Fulmer, M.D. – Candidate forLWF Executive Committee

It has been a privilege and a pleasure toserve the Louisiana Wildlife Federation forthe past 7 years representing District 6 onthe LWF Board of Directors. I have been amember of the LWF Executive Committeefor the past 5 years and have been a memberof the Development and FundraisingCommittee since its inception (1999).

Much has been accomplished and muchremains to be done and many decisions needto be made regarding the Federation’s future- especially the financial needs.

My past positions in life as a familyphysician, landowner and a member of theBoard of Directors and Chairman of theBoard of Regions Bank/New Roads has pre-pared me well for these challenges. (P. S. Ihave 4 children and 14 grandchildren;almost all are outdoors oriented. So you cansee I have a personal interest in land, water,wildlife, hunting and fishing.)


Directors of the Louisiana WildlifeFederation are either members of an affiliatedclub selected by that club to represent it onthe LWF Board of Directors, or they are indi-vidual members elected by the otherFederation members in their district to serveon the board. The elections for district-at-large directors are held every other year ineach of the 9 LWF districts, districts 1, 3, 5,7, and 9 in odd-numbered years and 2, 4, 6,and 8 in even years. The following district at-large directors were recently elected/reelectedand began their 2-year term on the board inJanuary.

District 2Mark Becker of Metairie was elected and

Joseph T. “Tom” Butler of Thibodaux was

reelected to represent LWF individual con-tributing members in District 2, whichincludes the parishes of St. James, St. JohnThe Baptist, St. Charles, Jefferson andLafourche. Mr. Becker is a property damageappraiser who has been involved with conser-vation in his community and active with theJefferson Rod and Gun Club, currently serv-ing as president, for many years. He helps toorganize the parish’s coastalrestoration/Christmas tree recycling projecteach year. He is a JEDCO Commissioner, a

member of the Jefferson Parish MarineFisheries Board and he co-chairs the Gulf of

Mexico Security Committee relative to recre-ational fishing at the offshore oil rigs. Hisinterests include coastal restoration/freshwa-ter diversion, boating safety and hunter edu-cation, and removal of derelict vessels andunderwater obstructions. Mr. Becker’s hob-bies include angling, hunting, camping andphotography.

Tom Butler is the founder and directorof the Center for Traditional Louisiana BoatBuilding. He is an avid saltwater marshangler and enjoys hunting, boat building andgardening. He is on the board of directors ofthe Bayou Chapter of the CCA and is a mem-ber of the National Wildlife Federation,Restore Or Retreat, and the LafourcheHeritage Society. His conservation interestsinclude wetland restoration and the maritimeheritage of South Louisiana.

District 4Wayne Hammons of Choudrant was

elected District 4 at-large director represent-ing LWF members in Caddo, Bossier,Webster, Claiborne, Lincoln, Bienville, andJackson Parishes. He is an operations andmaintenance technician for an energy compa-ny and an avid hunter and angler. A leader inthe Lincoln Parish Wildlife Federation for anumber of years, Mr. Hammons hopes toprovide some much needed representationfor Northwest Louisiana on the LWF Board.The other at-large board seat from District 4will remain vacant until the next election oruntil filled by appointment of the LWF

Board of Directors.

District 6Bobby G. Fulmer, M.D. of New Roads

and Ivor L. van Heerden, Ph.D. of Livingstonwere reelected to the LWF Board representingindividual contributing members fromDistrict 6 – West Feliciana, East Feliciana, St.Helena, Tangipahoa, Washington,Livingston, Ascension, East Baton Rouge,West Baton Rouge, and Pointe CoupeeParishes. Dr. Fulmer is president and ownerof the Upper Woods Hunting Club, a 3200-acre tract managed for habitat and wetlandsconservation as well as for agricultural pro-duction. The area has been planted with over300,000 hardwood seedlings, returning 780acres of marginal farmland back to woodland.One hundred and forty acres of floodedponds have been developed for waterfowlhabitat on the property. His interests includehunting, fishing, cattle ranching, travel, col-lecting, habitat and land management, and“introducing 14 grandchildren to the properunderstanding of land, water and wildlife.”

He is currently serving on the LWF’sExecutive Committee and Fundraising andDevelopment Committee and he has servedon the LWF Board since 1995.

As Deputy Director of the LSUHurricane Center, Dr. van Heerden conductsresearch relating to environmental (habitat)restoration and management and environ-mental impacts of major disasters. He hasextensive experience developing wildlife habi-tat management and restoration plans inSouth Africa and the Caribbean. InLouisiana, Dr. van Heerden has designed


LWF Directors Elected

Tom Butler

Mark Becker

Bobby G. Fulmer

about one-third of the coastal restorationprojects currently being built and has been anadvocate of innovative techniques and the“Big Picture” approach to coastal restoration.He served as Assistant Secretary of theLouisiana Department of Natural Resourcesfor Coastal Restoration and Management in1994-95 and was the principal author of thestate’s policy for coastal restoration activities.In February of 1999 Dr. van Heerden found-ed the “Concerned Citizens of LivingstonParish” which was initially organized tooppose expansion of landfills and addressground water contamination issues in

Livingston Parish. He has also been an activeparticipant in the state’s conservation andrecreation plan for the Atchafalaya Basin.His interests include boating and sailing,wildlife photography, fishing and hunting,but “mostly spending time with my two chil-dren in the outdoors.”

District 8Ken Dancak, Ph.D. of Pineville and

Rena Pitts of Ferriday were reelected to repre-sent LWF contributing members for theparishes in District 8. Parishes include:Grant, LaSalle, Catahoula, Concordia,Avoyelles, St. Landry, Evangeline andRapides. Dr. Dancak is involved with thedaily management of wildlife resources on alldistricts of the Kisatchie National Forest,including game, nongame and threatenedand endangered species, and coordination ofmanagement efforts with other naturalresource management agencies. He is aretired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S.Marine Corps Reserve. He is secretary of theLouisiana Chapter of the National WildTurkey Federation. He has been a District 8at-large director of the Louisiana WildlifeFederation since 1999. His hobbies include

photography, woodworking, outdoor cook-ing and travel. He serves on the LWF’s

Fundraising and Development Committeeand Deer Management Committee.

Rena Pitts, a farmer, has placed conser-vation easements on 10,300 acres of hard-wood bottomlands with Ducks Unlimited.She has installed water control structures toprovide shallow water and moist soil areas forwaterfowl and other wildlife on her property,enrolled 4,071 acres in the Wetlands ReserveProgram, and has enrolled 4,000 acres in theDeer Management Assistance Program(DMAP) to improve herd quality and the sizeand antler development of the buck compo-nent. She is a Life Member of the LouisianaWildlife Federation and Life Sponsor ofDucks Unlimited. She has held all offices,including president, of the Greater Louisiana

Federation of Women’s Clubs and serves onthe board of directors of the RiverlandMedical Center.


Sponsor MembersFirst-time $100 or greater LWF

Contributing members are entitled toreceive a sponsor plaque for theirhome or office. We extend our gratefulappreciation to the following SponsorMembers of the Louisiana WildlifeFederation. Their support and that ofall our loyal members is directlyresponsible for the Federation’s growthand success.

David A. Boudreaux, Baton Rouge

Warren A. Coco, Baton Rouge- Go-Devil Mfg. of Louisiana, Inc.

David F. Dares, New Orleans

Nick H. Fry, Schriever

Calvin Rex Johnson, Sulphur

William E. LeJeune, Sr., Kenner

H. E. Reily, Metairie

Wayne E. Reulet, Baton Rouge

Warren H. Smith, Jr., Covington

Ross Thompson, Monroe

Robert A. Uthoff, Slidell

Ivor van Heerden

Ken Dancak

Rena Pitts


Bass Fishing in the Atchafalaya Basin

Nearly 20 years ago, change was in thewind for bass management in Louisiana.The impetus was to grow larger bass instate waters, so the Louisiana Departmentof Wildlife and Fisheries dropped itsresistence to introducing the Florida strainof largemouth bass and began to stockthem in small numbers. Later, a bass taskforce was assembled to explore ways toaccommodate the growing demand forlarger bass and put the opportunity tocatch a trophy fish within reach of everyangler in the state. The task force wasmade up of biologists from LSU andWildlife & Fisheries along with bass clubrepresentatives and sporting organizationsall over the state. The concept of designat-ing a number of “Trophy” and “Quality”lakes with special slot and creel limitsemerged from that task force and has beenimplemented with varying degrees of suc-cess. It certainly raised the bar for what isnow considered a “trophy” bass inLouisiana. Although concerns wereaddressed with “perceived” diminishingnumbers of bass in the Atchfalaya Basin(Spillway), no special slots or creel restric-tions were recommended by the task forcefor the Spillway, other than the reductionin creel limit statewide from 15 to 10 blackbass daily.

Along came Hurricane Andrew withits massive fish kill in the Spillway and thebass question was raised once again.Another committee was formed to addressthe situation. Restocking was considered,even to the point of adding Florida strainlargemouths into the mix. Local anglersfrom Ascension Parish began to bring fishto the Spillway from the Blind and AmiteRiver areas. Talk in the committee rangedfrom letting the Spillway be restocked nat-urally from the yearly influx of fish fromthe Mississippi through the AtchafalayaRiver, to bringing a size limit into the pic-ture again.

To make a long story short, a 14” min-imum size limit was put in effect in theSpillway area for an experimental, two-yeartrial. Louisiana black bass first spawnbetween 12” and 14”, and the thinking wasthat protecting that size class from harvestwould help the Spillway bass populationrecover faster. That’s how we ended up with

The Louisiana Wildlife Federation willbe holding its 64th Annual Convention Feb.28, March 1-2 in Shreveport. The venuewill be the Holiday InnDowntown/Riverfront. Conservationgroups, sportsmen, environmentalists andnatural resource management professionalsfrom throughout Louisiana will be partici-pating. They will debate and vote on a vari-ety of conservation policy resolutions sub-mitted to the convention by federation affil-iate clubs and directors. Subjects range fromdeer hunting regulations to pollution con-trol and land conservation, to fisheries man-agement and conservation funding. The res-olutions sessions are scheduled for Saturdaymorning and are open to the public as are allconvention functions and sessions. A $15convention registration fee is requested ($10for preregistered guests). Ticket fees are alsocharged for those functions where food isserved. Please contact the LWF office inBaton Rouge (225/344-6762) for registra-tion information.

A highlight of the meeting will be theSaturday evening presentation of prestigiousconservation achievement awards to 9 indi-viduals and organizations who have madeoutstanding contributions to the conserva-tion of Louisiana’s natural resources duringthe previous year. The Louisiana OutdoorWriter’s Association will also present its topconservation award at this event. The ban-quet ceremonies will be presided over byoutdoor media personality Don Dubuc whowill once again emcee the event.

Another exciting program on Saturdaywill be the General Session from 2-5 PM.Dr. Jim Ingold of LSU-S will present the“History of Ornithology in Louisiana” tak-ing us from the pioneering days of Bartramand John James Audubon through Dr.George Lowery and present day efforts toknow and understand the bird life ofLouisiana. Shreveport native Paul Dicksonwill combine the centennial celebration ofthe National Wildlife Refuge System withhis own successful work in establishing theRed River National Wildlife Refuge,Louisiana’s newest, and talk about the futurerole of wildlife refuges in our society. Andthe Criminal Investigation Division of theUS Environmental Protection Agency will

review its work in Louisiana to bring pol-luters to justice.

The convention starts Friday. Feb. 28with business meetings in the afternoon,capped with an evening fish fry and auctionat 7 PM.. The auction is a lot of fun andparticipants can pick up some nice bargainson outdoor gear, wildlife art and huntingand fishing trips. The best part of this event,though, is the fellowship – meeting andcatching up with sportsmen and conserva-tionists from around the state. Tickets are$15 at the door, but only $5 if preregisteredfor the convention.

There will be numerous educationalexhibits set up in the Holiday Inn lobby andmeeting room foyer to give delegates andguests plenty of things to spark their interestwhen not participating in the conventionmeetings and events. And for those choos-ing to forego the business meetings and par-ticipate in the Spouses Tour, there will be acruise on the Red River followed by a visit tothe SciPort Science Center and the IMAXfilm “Lewis and Clark- the Great JourneyWest”; then lunch in the Red River District.

“It has been 13 years since the LouisianaWildlife Federation has held its conventionin Northwest Louisiana — too long,” saidJoe. L. Herring, LWF President. “We havemany loyal members from that beautifulpart of the state and I want to extend a spe-cial invitation to all of them to come andjoin us. We’d also like to see more of ourindividual contributing members come toconvention and participate. It’s not just foraffiliate clubs and directors,” Herring con-tinued. “Our convention program is inter-esting, educational, easy to participate in,and conducted in an orderly, business-likefashion that results in a productive and ful-filling meeting for those that attend. Andmost importantly, it is invigorating andmaintains the vitality of the LWF to be aleader in conservation in Louisiana. I hopeto see you there.”

The convention room rate at theHoliday Inn Downtown is $65. Please call318/222-7717 to make reservations.Contact the LWF office at 225/344-6762 [email protected] for convention preregis-tration and program information.

Y’all Come! 64th LWFConvention Set for Shreveport

Outdoor Cornerwith Lyle Johnson

a 14” minimum length restriction on har-vesting bass in the Spillway. After twoyears the committee reconvened to discusswhether the 14” restriction had accom-plished its mission or not. Most biologistsbelieved they needed one or two more yearsto complete the study, but the consensuswas that the program had succeeded andthe numbers of bass were on the rise.

Following the lead of the science, theEast Ascension Sportsman’s League was theonly organization that voted to remove thesize restriction. Bowing to the pressure ofbass club organizations and a tepid attemptby the Louisiana Wildlife Federation toestablish a slot limit, the committee votedto keep the size limit indefinitely. Here weare 10 years later and just what has hap-pened? The bass tournament organizationsare still wondering where the big bass inthe Spillway have gone and the “just forfun” bass fisherman is shaking his headwondering, “Why can’t I keep any of the75 bass I caught today?”

Well, the waters are being stirred againand its time to revisit this subject again.This may be way off the mark, but it seemsonly to be common sense that if youremove only the gene pool of the largestfish, over time only smaller fish are layingthe eggs or doing the fertilization. I don’tkeep up with every bass tournament fishedin the Atchafalaya Basin, but a trend seemsto have developed. The average weight of abass in a winning stringer is about 2 to 21/2 lb. It also seems that when tournamentfishermen are allowed to fish either side ofthe levee and the marsh, most of the win-ning stringers come from the marsh wherethere is no size limit.

Now, I don’t want to sound selfish, butthe attempts to make the Spillway a tour-nament fishing “heaven” has ruined the joyof bass fishing for a lot of “fun fishermen.”My dad passed away a little over a year agoand the memories coursing through mymind right now are of a 12’ home made,wooden bateau with a 7hp Evinrude out-board loaded with a few Johnson spin castreels with H&H spinnerbaits tied on for agreat days fun in the outdoors. I also havememories of fishing bass tournaments withthat same dad and I still love the competi-tion, but there must be some middleground somewhere.

So until next time, have fun in theoutdoors, be safe and may God bless you!!!


by Jay Huner

During the New Iberia Christmas BirdCount, Mike Musumeche, an avid birderand professional ornithologist, was visitingthe University of Louisiana at LafayetteExperimental Farm and noticed an unusual

wren. Mike recognized the bird to be a RockWren and was excited because this was onlythe fourth report of this western species inthe State of Louisiana.

Most avid birders maintain a “life list” ofthe birds that they have encountered. In theUSA, it is common to maintain a NorthAmerican life list and many birders maintainstate lists as well. The Rock Wren is native tothe southwestern USA and is reasonablycommon there but the species is rarely foundwest of central Texas. Well over 50 birdersvisited the ULL Experimental Farm to viewthe Rock Wren including several nonresidentbirders - Arkansas, Tennessee, Virginia, andWyoming - who were in the area and modi-fied their itineraries to come to the Farm toview the wren.

Although the Rock Wren left the site bymid-January 2003, those interested in seeingwhat it looks like can view a dramatic imageof the bird at the Louisiana OrnithologicalSociety’s web site - www.losbird.org .

Readers may be interested to learn thatthe Rock Wren became bird number 258 forthe UL Lafayette Experimental Farm’s birdlist. This list was initiated in 1988 as part ofa project to document the habitat value of

agricultural lands for wildlife. Recent addi-tions to the list, all reasonably uncommon inthe area, have included Yellow Rail, Groove-billed Ani, Willow Flycatcher, and BrownCreeper in addition to the Rock Wren. Thestate’s avifauna includes approximately 450species. Thus, approximately 60% of the

birds reported in the state have been docu-mented there. During the December 22,2003 New Iberia Christmas Bird Count, 82bird species were recorded on the ULL unitor within 3 miles of it, while a total of 125species were recorded during the entire CBCsurvey.

The ULL unit covers about 600 acresincluding a wooded wetland woodlot, ripari-an forest, pasture land, cane fields, and craw-fish ponds. This ecological “footprint” iscommon to the rural landscape in western St.Martin Parish where the ULL unit is located.As a result, one can expect to find a similardiversity of birds throughout the area.Unlike “private lands”, the ULLExperimental Farm is open to public visita-tion and birders are welcome to come toenjoy the avifauna of the area. A descriptionof birding opportunities may be found in thearchives of the Louisiana OrnithologicalSociety’s web page under past issues of theLOS Newsletter. - Jay V. Huner, Director,UL Lafayette Crawfish Research Center,1031 W. J. Bernard Road, St. Martinville, LA70582 - [email protected]

Rock wren. Photo by Gayle and Jeanell Strickland

Rock Wren Sighted at ULL Experimental Farm


are the Elmer’s Island Committee andFreedom to Hunt, Fish & Trap and WhiteLake Committees chaired by past presidentKeith Saucier and 1st Vice President SmittySmith, respectively. Keith and Smitty havereports in this issue of the magazine. Pleaseread them and lend your support to theseefforts.

We are looking forward to a very suc-cessful LWF convention in Shreveport onFebruary 28, March 1 & 2. Presently, theLWF does not have a club in Shreveport, butwe have received very good support fromour contributing members in that area. Ican remember when Caddo Parish had asportsmen’s club with about 1,800 mem-bers, and was one of the most active affiliatesin the LWF. Northwest Louisiana deservesto have a local conservation organizationthat can work with LWF on the many issuesthat effect the outdoors in that wonderfulpart of our state. There would be plenty todo working to keep the air, water and soilclean and healthy and conserving fish andwildlife resources.

Yours in conservation,Joe L. HerringPresident

President’s Column: Continued from page 3

Executive Director: Continued from page 3

Me Cher Amis le Chasseur et la Pecher:Well, the holidays are long gone and the

hunting season remains open for only a fewspecies. I hope you all had wonderful holidays

with your families and a productive huntingseason and caught plenty of fish.

We had 35 people at my home onChristmas Eve. Most were family, but somewere friends of family members, too, likegrandsons with there girlfriends. One grand-son, Trent, received a yellow Labrador retriev-er pup from his girlfriend for Christmas. Thatcreated excitement and interest in the house.Wife, Erna, kept the puppy in her lap.“Chevy” is the name of the 3 month old pup.

Trent killed 2 deer this year-his first, but

his dad, Ronnie scratched. So Ronnie did thecooking. They ate all the venison at theircamp, so we got no deer sausage this year.

Trent attends school in the mornings andgoes to work in the afternoons so he doesn’thave enough time to exercise Chevy. I go topick Chevy up to take my 40-minute walkeach day. He has learned to sit, come and heelpretty good. Trent says that Pa Pa Tibbythinks Chevy belongs to him. I really doenjoy taking Chevy with me as I have ownedseven retrievers and trained them myself. OldBeachcomber, Bob Scearce and Mike Cook,the legendary outdoor writers for the BatonRouge newspaper, both now deceased, used tocompliment me on the training when theyaccompanied me on hunts, not so long ago, inthe ricefields of Southwest Louisiana.

I made only one fishing trip last year thatI wrote about last time, and no hunting trips.I will try to do more this year. A young manlike me does not feel like going all the time,and I don’t want to be a burden to anyone.Much to my regret, also, Ole Tibby does notdrive anymore. That really confines me tohome. I have to watch my Ps and Qs to keepErna happy with me so she can chauffeur forme. So far, we are doing all right.

There are so many changes today in thisworld, I get the feeling we’re living in a differ-ent world. Some of my old friends feel thatway, too. The trouble we are having in theMiddle East disturbs me some. I was in NorthAfrica one year during WW II and being aFrench-English translator, I learned someArabic and Jewish language too. You can seethat those walks with Chevy really help makethis Ole Ecriteur think he is young again.

One of the other things I do to keep busyis make duck calls. I also make duck call lapelpins, gavels, pencil and tooth pick holders andsuch on my lathe. But since that’s in the boatshed, sometimes it’s just too cold to get outthere and do it. Today as I was walking Chevy,seven schoolgirls got off the bus near theirhomes. They ran over to me asking, “Mister,is that your dog?” I told them that he belongsto my grandson. They began to ask questionsabout duck hunting as they often see me inthe neighborhood and know that I call ducks.I asked them if they wanted me to call them aduck. They said yes, so I said “you are aduck.” They laughed so loud that I could hearthem when I was almost home.

T I B B Y S E Z

Ole Tibby

The youngest of Tibby’s 13 grandchildren Trent Thibodeauxwalking “Chevy”, the yellow lab pup his girlfriend Kayliegave him for Christmas. Pa Pa Tibby already has Chevyunder training.


than waiting for rain. Remember, wewere in the grips of a major drought forthe better part of 3 years until last sum-mer.

As for birds at the backyard feeder -goldfinches and house finches a-plenty atmy place in Baton Rouge. And a fewweeks ago there were 2 fat white-wingeddoves teetering on the edge of the feederpecking out a meal - the first appearanceof these southwestern birds in my yard. Ithink I also had a bay breasted warbler,and this morning, a field sparrow amongall the finches. Our wildlife makes usrich, indeed.

State Turkey Calling Contest Set

Just in time for the beginning of turkeyseason, the Louisiana State Chapter of theNational Wild Turkey Federation is hosting itsState Championship turkey-calling, gobblingand owl hooting contest. The contest will beheld March 1, 2003 in Shreveport, LA at theHoliday Inn Downtown where the LouisianaWildlife Federation is holding its 64th AnnualConvention. Registration for the contestbegins at 11 AM and the competition will startat 1 PM.

The event will feature calling contests forvarious ages and skill levels. The highlight ofthe show will be the Louisiana StateChampionship, which will determine the bestturkey caller in the state. The winner will beeligible to represent Louisiana in the 2004National Turkey Calling Championship.There will be an “open” division for competi-tors from out of state, and competitions forwomen and youngsters under 17. For moreinformation about the contest contact ChadBowen (318/872-1477) or Michael Lodridge(318/899-7503).

Save Our Lake Golf Classic

The Lake Pontchartrain BasinFoundation is holding the 7th Annual SaveOur Lake Golf Classic on February 24, 2003at the Chateau Golf and Country Club.Donation per player is $125 and includes around of golf, lunch, beverages, awards partyand LPBF membership. Sponsorships areavailable at the Gold, Silver, and Bronze levelsand for each hole. Registration is 10:30 AMwith tee time at 11:30. Funds raised from theClassic will support the work of the LPBF inimproving the quality of Lake Pontchartrainand its environs. For more information callSheila Ehren (504/836-2205).

Louisiana Safari Club Banquet andFundraiser

The Louisiana Chapter of Safari ClubInternational has set its annual fundraisingbanquet for March 29, 2003 at the WyndhamHotel in Metairie. This gala event will featurenumerous outfitted hunts and outdoor gear,good food and great fellowship, all to raise dol-lars for conservation and education. For tick-ets, or to donate an item for the auction, con-tact Jimmy Fowler at 985/882-7843. One ofthe events at the banquet will be the drawing

for the winners of the Chapter’s “5-gun raffle”.Guns featured are a Browning Gold semi-autoshotgun, a Thompson Center Classic .22 cal.rifle with scope, a Benelli Nova pump shotgun,a Remington 710 .270 cal. rifle with scope,and a Thompson Encore 209x50 Mag MuzzleLoader. Tickets are $5 for 1, $25 for 6 and $50for 13. Each ticket buys a chance to win eachgun. Contact Jimmy Fowler for tickets.

EASL Is Online

The East Ascension Sportsman’s League isnow online! Visit the club’s website athttp://www.easlonline.org/. It’s still underconstruction but most sections should be com-plete by the end of February. At easlonline.orgyou will learn about one of the finest conserva-tion and outdoor sports organizations in thestate. The site will have information and pho-tos from EASL activities, projects and events.Winners of the club’s monthly and yearly con-tests will be posted and there will be a sports-man’s calendar of events. There will also belinks to other conservation and outdoor sportswebsites. Bookmark EASL’s website for easyreference.


C L U B N E W S

DISTRICT 1Little Tchefuncte River AssociationPontchartrain Hunting Retriever Club

DISTRICT 2Clio Sportsman’s LeagueJefferson Rod and Gun ClubLake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation

DISTRICT 3Acadiana Bay AssociationIberia Rod and Gun ClubPlaquemine Sportsman’s League

DISTRICT 4Claiborne Parish Hunting and Fishing Club

DISTRICT 5

DISTRICT 6American Sportsmen Against PoachersBaton Rouge Sportsmen’s LeagueCitizens For A Clean EnvironmentCFACTEast Ascension Sportsmen’s LeagueLake Maurepas SocietyTriangle “T” Sportsmen’s League

DISTRICT 7Acadiana Sportsmen’s LeagueHoy Hunting ClubSouthwest Louisiana Wildlife AssociationWestlake Hunting Club

DISTRICT 8Avoyelles Wildlife FederationBayou Bassmasters of AlexandriaRapides Wildlife Association

DISTRICT 9Louisiana Toledo Bend Lake AssociationSouth Toledo Bend Civic AssociationToledo Bend Bi-State Alliance

STATEWIDEAssociation of Louisiana Bass ClubsBayou State Bowhunters AssociationLa. Chapter, National Wild Turkey

FederationLa. Chapter Safari Club InternationalLouisiana Charter Boat AssociationLouisiana Trappers and Alligator Hunters

AssociationUnited Commercial Fishermen’s Association

A F F I L I A T EC L U B S

I really enjoy watching the local TV pro-gram “Louisiana Treasure” with Joe Macalusoand Gary Rispone. They hunt the Gueydanarea where I hunted for many years. I talkedwith LWF executive director Randy Lanctotthe other day and he told me killed only 3ducks on his best day last season, but that allthe mornings were good just being out there.He is like I am, killing is not all of it. It’srewarding just being afield, seeing wild things,exercising your legs and your duck calling.

I’m proud of all you parents who takeyour kids hunting and fishing, bird watchingand other activities to enjoy the outdoors.And, of course, encouraging them in athleticactivities is good, too. Through them theylearn a decent way of life and won’t beinvolved in unwanted activities. I still believein the statement, “Take your kids hunting andfishing and you wont have to go hunting forthem.”

Lashe pass mes amis. (Do not give up, my friends.) - Tibby

Tibby Sez: Continued on page 14

http://www.easlonline.org/

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