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In New Executive Gun Control Push, Biden Seems to Throw Obama, and Himself, Under the Bus Many have come to realize that Joe Biden rarely seems to make much sense, especially when speaking publicly. At his recent Rose Garden ceremony, where he announced his latest assault on the Second Amendment, he lied a number of times, and garbled the name of the federal agency tasked with enforcing federal gun laws. At the Rose Garden ceremony, Biden announced these six actions: “The Justice Department, within 30 days, will issue a proposed rule to help stop the proliferation of “ghost guns.” While the text of the rule is not available at this time, it is likely that this rule is aimed at the self-made firearms market. The... Read more →

NRA-ILA SOURCE Firearm retailers reported to their trade association, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, that 40% of their customers during the Surge of 2020 were first-time gun buyers. This works out to an estimated 8 million new gun owners in 2020, and March's NICS data shows that surge in sales is a new era rather than a short-lived spike. One year ago, we marked a new all-time record for monthly NICS background checks numbers after March 2020 saw more than 3.7 million, which bested the previous record by more than four hundred thousand checks. As the pandemic was joined by additional societal stressors, the surge in gun sales only picked up the pace. The March 2020 record only lasted until June 2020, and that record... Read more →

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources seeks new committee members for its Black Bass Advisory Committee. Black bass in Maryland includes largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. The Black Bass Advisory Committee (BBAC) was created in response to guidance from the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission (SFAC). Its purpose is to explicitly provide the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the SFAC advice on black bass fisheries matters. The BBAC receives agendas, meets virtually, discusses agenda topics, and develops consensus on motions that advise the Director of Fishing and Boating Services for the department on matters referenced by the Director. Meeting minutes are drafted following meetings that are held quarterly and are reported directly to SFAC, and uploaded to the department's website. Committee members will be expected... Read more →

In response to the eighth modification to the COVID-19 emergency order, issued by Gov. John Carney on March 29, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will issue up to 1,000 additional one-year surf fishing permits for 2021, with a special voucher distribution Wednesday, April 14. Those who wish to purchase one of the additional 1,000 one-year surf fishing permits must first acquire a special voucher. Vouchers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis on April 14, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the following locations until the allotted vouchers have been distributed: Brandywine Creek State Park: Hawk Watch parking lot – 150 vouchers available Lums Pond State Park: Area 1 Day Use area – 125 vouchers available Killens Pond State... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – April 7 by Keith Lockwood, Maryland Department of Natural Resources fisheries biologist Angler Kate Morrison holds an invasive blue catfish she caught on the Nanticoke River — and destined for the dinner table. Photo by Sean Morrison April offers many fishing opportunities to anglers, ranging from trout to invasive species such as northern snakeheads and blue catfish. A reminder to anglers that all fishing for striped bass, including catch-and-release, is prohibited in the Chesapeake Bay or any of its tidal rivers — except the main stem of the Potomac River — for the month of April. The main stem of the bay will open to striped bass fishing on May 1 south of the Brewerton Channel. Forecast Summary: April 7 –... Read more →

There is central hypocrisy at the heart of the gun control effort. source NRA-ILA There is central hypocrisy at the heart of the gun control effort. High-profile gun control-supporting politicians, the Hollywood elite, and billionaire tycoons will advocate stripping ordinary Americans of their right to defend themselves and their family, all the while enjoying the security that armed men with guns provide. As Hunter Biden’s 2018 firearm incident shows, this hypocrisy extends even to incidents where a high-profile individual has taken the step of procuring their own firearm. The message from these elites could not be clearer: Gun laws are only for the little people. For those who have yet to learn of Hunter’s escapades in firearm ownership, according to a report from Politico, the... Read more →

EDGEFIELD, S.C.—The National Wild Turkey Federation is proud to announce Matt Lindler as its new director of Government Affairs. Lindler, approaching the 23rd year of his tenure with the NWTF, brings an abundance of diversified experience to the position. Lindler began working for the NWTF in 1998 as a staff writer and photographer and would hold various positions interdepartmentally, including founder and editor of JAKES Magazine (now JAKES Country), which youth are still enjoying today; editor-in-chief of Turkey Country magazine; vice president of Communications; and, most recently, director of Conservation communications. “NWTF’s role in policy has always intrigued me,” Lindler said. “Communicating our policy successes was always a rewarding experience, but I am excited for the challenge to orchestrate and elevate the NWTF’s voice at... Read more →

Supporting Oyster Aquaculture and Restoration Resiliency Fund; Proposals Being Sought On March 29, 2021, The Nature Conservancy and Pew Charitable Trusts’ Supporting Oyster Aquaculture and Restoration (SOAR) program issued a request for proposals (RFP) for the $1 million Shellfish Growers Resiliency Fund (Fund). The Fund aims to pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable U.S. shellfish industry that benefits the ocean and the communities which rely upon it. Funding will be open to applicants in the United States and will be distributed equitably among the West Coast (including Hawaii and Alaska), East Coast, and the Gulf of Mexico. The Fund is currently accepting applications for small and large awards. The small award will fund one-year projects (up to $20,000) and will target shellfish... Read more →

Open Burning Ban – Also Known As Ozone Season – Runs May 1-Sept. 30 The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reminds residents that open burning of materials such as tree limbs, brush and branches is allowed until May 1 – when the state’s annual open burning ban takes effect through Sept. 30. But DNREC further reminds the public that it is against the law at all times to burn materials considered toxic or hazardous. “We want to reinforce the environmental message that while residential open burning is allowed until the end of April, there are constraints on what can be burned, how much can be burned at a time, and at what time of day these materials can be burned,” said DNREC... Read more →

April 8, 2021 (6:00 pm – 8:00 pm) The following message was sent by the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife to e-mail list subscribers. Press inquiries related to this message should be directed to the DEP Press Office at 609-984-1795. The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) are seeking public comment on management options under consideration in the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. This amendment contains alternatives to: Revise the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) goals and objectives Modify the bluefish allocations between the commercial and recreational sectors Modify the commercial allocations to the states Initiate a rebuilding plan Revise the quota transfer processes Revise how the FMP accounts for management uncertainty Revise the de minimis provisions in ASMFC’s... Read more →

Pre-Season Catch-and-Release Runs April 1 through April 9 TRENTON – More than a half-million freshly stocked rainbow trout will be available when anglers cast their lines in New Jersey waters this April, Department of Environmental Protection Acting Commissioner Shawn LaTourette announced today. The official Trout season kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 10, offering an excellent opportunity to spend quality time outdoors while enjoying some of the best trout fishing on the East Coast. In the Murphy Administration’s continuing efforts to promote social distancing and reduce the spread of COVID-19, DEP’s Division of Fish & Wildlife implemented an accelerated trout stocking schedule that will enable fish and anglers to spread out in advance of opening day. To further ensure good public health measures,... Read more →

Self-serve Required Turkey Harvest Registration Provided at Check Stations Delaware’s statewide one-day turkey hunt for youth ages 10 to 15 and for non-ambulatory disabled hunters requiring a wheelchair will be held Saturday, April 3, followed by the four-week spring turkey hunting season from Saturday, April 10 through Saturday, May 8. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reminds turkey hunters that hunting hours are a half-hour before sunrise until 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with no Sunday hunting. Youth hunters on the one-day turkey hunt must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older who has completed a Delaware-approved turkey hunter safety course and has a Delaware hunting license or a License Exempt Number (LEN). The accompanying adult may not... Read more →

Vice President Kamala Harris sat for a segment with “CBS This Morning” in which she advocated for a raft of gun control measures. On Wednesday March 24, Vice President Kamala Harris sat for a segment with “CBS This Morning” in which she advocated for a raft of gun control measures. During her anti-gun rant, the former senator from California tried to give the impression that anti-gun politicians are not interested in taking Americans’ firearms, stating, “Stop pushing the false choice that this means everybody's trying to come after your guns. That is not what we're talking about.” The statement was a flagrant falsehood, uttered by a person who spent much of the 2020 Democratic primary campaign advocating for the confiscation of commonly-owned semi-automatic firearms among... Read more →

Special Off-Peak Permit Pilot Program to Cast Off in Late May In response to the eighth modification to the COVID-19 emergency order, issued by Gov. John Carney on March 29, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmenta l Control will issue up to 1,000 additional one-year Surf-Fishing Permits for 2021. Those who wish to purchase one of the additional 1,000 regular Surf-Fishing Permits must first acquire a special voucher on a date to be determined. Vouchers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with details to be announced by the DNREC Division of Parks and Recreation in the near future. Each voucher will allow for the purchase of one 2021 Surf-Fishing Permit. These special Surf-Fishing Permit vouchers are limited to one per person.... Read more →

Do You Know Your Trout? How well do you know your trout? This is an important question we have been asking anglers like you. Maryland waters are home to one native trout species: brook trout. Mostly found in the streams and rivers of Western Maryland, the presence of brook trout indicates that a stream is healthy. While fishing for brook trout is allowed, the department is trying to protect this species with rules limiting take of these fish. Each year, the Department of Natural Resources stocks golden, rainbow, and brown trout for fishing. It is important that anglers know how to tell these species apart. Test your trout ID skills here! And check out our new pocket guide to learn how to identify Maryland's trout... Read more →

by Keith Lockwood, Maryland Department of Natural Resources fisheries biologist. March 24, 2021 Photo by Tom Marble To anglers and hunters, a traditional opening day can be described as Christmas and your birthday rolled into one. This Saturday, March 27, marks what many consider the opening of the spring trout season in Maryland. The trout hatchery and stocking program has worked hard under some tough conditions to bring the public the best trout possible so don’t miss the fun this weekend and for the next couple of months. This is a wonderful way for families and our younger anglers to enjoy fishing. Forecast Summary: March 24 – 30: With a string of warm March days, Chesapeake Bay waters will continue to slowly warm up for... Read more →

by National Rifle Association Anti-Gunner on “Secure Storage” Requirements: We often say there is no need to speculate on what the true purposes and effects of gun control are, as real-world case studies abound. We often say there is no need to speculate on what the true purposes and effects of gun control are, as real-world case studies abound. This week’s example comes from Canada, where a government official justified a recent gun ban’s grandfather provisions for formerly lawful firearms – presumably included to appease law-abiding owners – by explaining they rendered those guns “legally useless.” Gun owners in the U.S. should take note, as a recently-introduced federal ban on semiautomatic firearms seeks to employ a similarly disingenuous bait-and-switch. An article in the Toronto Star... Read more →

by The National Rifle Association Gloucestercitynews.net graphic For several years the FBI has been operating a shadow gun ban regime whereby Americans who are not prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law are being denied their Second Amendment rights without due process. For several years the FBI has been operating a shadow gun ban regime whereby Americans who are not prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law are being denied their Second Amendment rights without due process. This extralegal practice was brought to light again in recent weeks in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit case Turaani v. Wray. The case revealed that the FBI’s current administration of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System amounts to a may-issue gun purchasing scheme... Read more →

With Earth Day exactly one month away, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is launching a video contest to educate and engage youth about the importance of environmental protection and inspire them to be part of the solution to address climate change. The global theme for Earth Day 2021, Restore the Earth, brings hope that all people can come together to heal the planet. The contest invites Delaware students to produce and submit a 30-second video to answer the question, “What should we be doing to protect and restore our Earth?” “Earth Day has inspired environmental activism for two generations, and today’s youth are growing up in a world where we have a much better understanding of the impact our actions have... Read more →

by Fisheries Biologist Keith Lockwood Maryland Department of Natural Resources Maryland Fishing Report – March 17 The picture reveals why the brook trout is one of the most beautiful trout species. Photo by Ryan Cooper The brook trout is Maryland’s only native trout and because it demands cool, clear water its range has been greatly impacted by environmental changes, natural and manmade. It is now mostly found in the most pristine waters of western Maryland. Fishing for brook trout is restricted to catch and release only and fishing tackle is often limited. A reminder to shad anglers that are looking forward to the upcoming spring run – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is recruiting participants for the shad volunteer angler survey. This brief online... Read more →

Spring Campaign Will Reduce Numbers of Year’s First Biting Mosquitoes The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will begin annual spraying of spring woodland pools to control aquatic immature mosquitoes Tuesday, March 23, weather permitting. Statewide spraying will originate in southern Sussex County, then expand into Kent and New Castle counties over the next several weeks. DNREC Mosquito Control works throughout the year to limit adverse impacts from mosquitoes, to maintain Delawareans’ quality of life by eliminating unbearable numbers and swarms of biting mosquitoes, and to protect public health by reducing possibility of mosquito-borne illnesses. Up to 10,000 acres of wet woodlands near select populated areas will be treated by Mosquito Control, with a helicopter applying the bacteria-derived insecticide Bti. Like all insecticides... Read more →

Preseason stocking began Monday and most trout waters are closed through March 31. Catch and release fishing begins Thursday, April 1 and continues until midnight, April 9. The traditional Opening Day is Saturday, April 10: March 15 - March 31: Fishing prohibited on trout stocked waters as pre-season stocking begins*. (See below.) April 1 at 8 a.m. - April 9: Catch and release for trout in all other waters. April 10 (12:00 a.m. - 7:59 a.m.): Waters closed to all fishing. April 10 at 8:00 a.m.: Opening day of trout season! Spring Trout Season Information Stocking Schedule Trout Allocations (pdf) Trout Regulations(pdf) * Exceptions: Trophy Tout Lakes, Lake Hopatcong, Mountain Lake, Lake Shenandoah, Lawrence Brook (section from Davidson's Mill Rd. to Farrington Lake dam), Prospertown... Read more →

UPDATED/ March 21, 2021 Fans of Harley would stop every day to feed him snacks, such as apples and carrots. We asked Lawton Stables if Harley had been sick since January with colic why wasn't he placed in isolation until he was well. And, because of being sick why didn't they stop the public from giving him his daily treats. Too many apples for example, according to equinespot.com can cause serious stomach problems in a horse. A spokesperson for Lawton Stables said "Harley did have a mild episode of colic back in January that completely resolved with supportive fluid therapy and medication. Colic is a very acute illness and the recent episode that took his life wasn’t directly related to the first. A horse cannot... Read more →

image Credit: Google User Content The U.S. House Representatives, with the urging and support of Joe Biden, passed two bills on Thursday – H.R. 8 and H.R. 1446 – that would usher in a sweeping overhaul of how firearms are bought and sold in the U.S. Neither would impede criminals, who overwhelmingly obtain their firearms outside normal channels of lawful commerce. But together they would transform the constitutionally protected right to obtain firearms into a privilege administered at the whim of anti-gun bureaucrats. To understand why these bills are so consequential, it’s important to understand how retail firearm sales work under existing federal law. Currently, the primary means by which the federal government regulates firearms is through a network of licensed dealers (FFLs) making commercial... Read more →

Four Byways recognized for natural beauty and rich history (Trenton) – The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) today announced that four New Jersey Scenic Byways were designated as National Scenic Byways by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The recognition of the Western Highlands, Bayshore Heritage, Palisades, and Pine Barrens Scenic Byways means six of the eight New Jersey Scenic Byways now have a National designation. “Gaining national recognition for four of New Jersey’s Scenic Byways will provide an opportunity for people from all across the country to know about the distinctive places and diverse communities in our state,” NJDOT Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti said. “These scenic Byways help share stories about New Jersey’s history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities by highlighting roads less traveled in... Read more →

Courtesy of https://tpzoo.wordpress.com/Gloucestercitynews.net files William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews NJ's Share of the $1.9 Trillion Relief Package: How Much Each Town Gets...NJ105.com (Gloucestercitynews.net)(March 14, 2021)--The State of New Jersey received $10.9 billion in aid from the American Rescue Plan that was signed into law last week by President Joe Biden. Of that amount, $6.434 billion goes to the state government, $189 million to expand broadband internet, $1.823 billion for 21 counties, and $1.741 for 565 municipalities. Some of the cities that received the most include, Camden City ($63,284,330), Newark ($182,647,351), Jersey City ($ 145,818,453), Paterson ($63,716,304). According to NJ105.com the money is meant to prevent layoffs of essential services and cuts to services, and investment in infrastructure. How much did your city receive? Here... Read more →

March 10, 2021 Maryland Fishing Report by Keith Lockwood, Maryland Department of Natural Resources fisheries biologist Photo by Montana Grant Warmer weather has everyone thinking about getting outdoors, and fishing is often at the top of the list. The yellow perch spawning runs are starting in the upper sections of a number of tidal rivers, and this weekend is a wonderful time for everyone to get in on the action. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is recruiting participants for the shad volunteer angler survey. This brief online survey is smartphone compatible and provides valuable information for the restoration of these prized fish. Anglers are invited to log their shad fishing trips, even if you don’t catch any shad. Also, please join us on March... Read more →

Clyburn Background Check Bill Would Flip Burden of Proof, Should the government be able to deny your right to obtain a firearm, simply by failing to complete a mandatory background check? Anti-gun Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) apparently thinks so. On March 1st, Clyburn introduced H.R. 1446, the so-called “Enhanced Background Checks Act.” Under the bill, the FBI could indefinitely block federally licensed dealers (FFLs) from transferring firearms, simply by failing to provide decisions on the background checks FFLs are required to run on their customers. Currently, federal law requires FFLs to run a background check on any unlicensed customer who wants a firearm through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), administered by the FBI. The purpose of the background check is to determine... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – March 3 by Keith Lockwood, fisheries biologist Maryland Department of Natural Resources Maria Ricasa is all smiles with her first rainbow trout. Photo by Czarlite Ricasa Welcome to March! In a couple of weeks spring will be here, and the warmer periods will become longer than the cold stretches. There is plenty of good fishing out there now; the yellow perch runs will start soon and the trout program is stocking generous numbers of fish at a location near you. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is recruiting participants for the shad volunteer angler survey. This brief online survey is smartphone compatible and provides valuable information for the restoration of these prized fish. Anglers are invited to log their shad fishing... Read more →

Delaware Sets Deer Harvest Record Sportsmen Against Hunger Program Donates More Than 84,000 Venison Meals Delaware Waterfowl Stamp (Gloucestercitynews.net files) Delaware hunters registered a record 17,265 harvested deer during the 2020/21 hunting season with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, surpassing the previous record harvest of 16,969 deer set last year during the 2019/20 hunting season. This year marks the eighth-consecutive year that more than 14,000 deer were harvested. With the record-breaking total harvest, numerous other records were surpassed this year, including: November Shotgun Season harvest: 7,072 deer (previous record: 7,016 deer during the 1999/2000 season) Adult doe harvest: 8,439 deer (previous record: 8,122 deer during the 2019/20 season) Nine of the 18 Wildlife Management Zones had record harvests: Zones 6, 8,... Read more →

According to reports from Capitol Hill, the Democrat-controlled U.S. House of Representatives plans to vote on two gun control bills as early as next week. The first bill, so-called “universal” background check legislation, would criminalize the private transfer of firearms. The second bill, sometimes inaccurately described as legislation to close the “Charleston loophole,” would undermine the Second Amendment right by permitting the federal government to delay a firearm transfer indefinitely without proof that the transferee is prohibited from possessing firearms. Criminalization of Private Firearm Transfers The 2021 House gun control agenda promises to include H.R. 8, introduced by Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), which purports to be a so-called “universal” background check bill. This legislation would make it a crime, subject to certain limited exceptions, to... Read more →

After Reaching Annual Cap The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced today it has reached its cap of 17,000 Delaware Surf-Fishing Permits issued for the calendar year. With the Surf-Fishing Permit cap figure attained, no more surf tag permits will be issued until December. The cap was reached early this year after unprecedented winter sales. The DNREC Division of Parks and Recreation utilized an ongoing outreach effort to communicate that permits were on sale. Previous permit holders were also notified when sales started in December and reminded again today when total sales reached 16,000, at which point the remaining permits available sold out in one hour. In 2019, the Delaware Parks and Recreation Advisory Council established a 17,000 cap on annual Surf-Fishing... Read more →

In accordance with N.J.S.A. 13:1D-51 through -58, the State of New Jersey, Department of Environmental Protection, Green Acres Program and Division of Fish and Wildlife, will hold two public hearings to seek comments on a proposed exchange of property with the Central Jersey Rifle and Pistol Club, Inc. in Jackson Township, Ocean County and Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County. The NJDEP is proposing to transfer approximately 43.05 acres of land it owns in Jackson Township, Ocean County to the Central Jersey Rifle and Pistol Club (the Club) in exchange for approximately 86.8 acres of land owned by the Club in Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County. The DEP property is currently part of the Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area and a portion of it has been... Read more →

At the March 2nd Business Meeting, the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors will hold a vote on an ordinance banning firearms in certain public places. Second Amendment supporters are encouraged to OPPOSE Item 09 on the agenda. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting is to be held electronically. Citizens may sign-up to speak remotely, over phone or video conference, no later than noon the day of the hearing. Information may be found here. In addition, you may click the “Take Action” button below to contact Board of Supervisors members directly. Item 09 prohibits firearms, ammunition, and components in county owned public buildings, public parks, recreational centers, and parts of buildings being used for governmental purposes. There is an exemption for concealed handgun permit... Read more →

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reminds visitors to Delaware State Parks that 2021 entrance fees will be in effect starting Monday, March 1 through Nov. 30. State park entrance fees for vehicles registered in Delaware are $4 at inland parks and $5 at ocean parks. Fees for out-of-state vehicles are $8 at inland parks and $10 at ocean parks. Entrance fees will remain in effect through Nov. 30, which is the normal fee season end date. Daily park entrance fees may be purchased via a credit-card machine at most park locations, where fee attendants are on duty or self-registration envelopes provided at park entrances that are then placed in designated secured drop boxes. Revenue generated from park entrance fees is used to... Read more →

Anglers Encouraged to Practice Responsible Social Distancing; Newton Pond Closed for All Angling Feb. 23 through 27 Until Opening Gloucestercitynews.net files Delaware’s 2021 downstate pond trout season will open early to minimize opening day crowds and accommodate responsible outdoor recreation during the current coronavirus (COVID-19) period. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s plans are subject to change based on health and safety considerations, and any further restrictions or changes to the season will be announced. Anglers are encouraged to practice social distancing while fishing, which is currently six feet from other individuals, approximately the length of some fishing rods. Only Newton Pond near Greenwood in Sussex County will be stocked with trout, where the trout fishing season will open several days earlier... Read more →

Final Week To Apply The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces that applications remain available through February 28, 2021 for economic relief funds for the commercial seafood industry through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES), for those who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The application will be available to eligible members of the seafood industry on the Maryland OneStop website. The deadline to apply is Feb. 28, 2021. An appeals process for rejected applications is now available online. If you applied for CARES relief and your application was rejected, please check your email to see if you qualify for an appeal. All instructions and relevant information will be found with that email. The appeal will be part of your... Read more →

This year marks the 38th anniversary of the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife's Skillful Angler Program. For almost four decades the Division has been recognizing anglers who catch fish of "not quite record" size but large enough to have tested the angler's skill and be worthy of recognition in each of the freshwater and marine species categories. The Skillful Angler Program is designed to supplement the New Jersey State Record Fish Program. Significant changes were made in January of 2015. Although the program's three divisions remained the same (Adult, Junior, and Catch and Release), there are now categories creating more opportunities for qualifying fish to earn the angler a series of personalized certificates: Specialist Angler - catch five qualifying fish of the same... Read more →

CNBNews Contributor If you didn’t know what time of the year it was, or what the weather was like, you could tell simply by eavesdropping at the philosophy counter of the Mule Barn coffee shop. Let’s give it a try. “Good to see you here, Doc,” said Herb Collins. “That warm water on the battery trick work for you?” “Thanks, Herb. Yep. I tried it this morning. What’s that you got there?” “Travel thingie. You know it’s more than 80 degrees in Guatemala … right now?” “Saw a deal on TV,” Dud said. “They’re water skiing in Florida. You can go fishing down there all year round.” “You going to Guatemala, Herb?” said Doc. “Maybe. Been thinking about it. I don’t know much Spanish, though.”... Read more →

WATCH: Scientists 'band' peregrine falcon chick atop Jersey City skyscraper (nj.com, 6/22/17) Bald Eagle Peregrine Falcon Osprey American Kestrel Raptors, commonly referred to as "birds of prey," include hawks, owls, eagles, falcons and vultures. Raptors have fascinated people for thousands of years and inspire people even today. Fortunately, after some frightening declines in some of our largest species, raptors represent some of New Jersey's greatest success stories. The bald eagle, osprey and peregrine falcon have made impressive comebacks from the brink of extinction, in large part thanks to the efforts of division biologists. Unfortunately, not all species of raptors are thriving - the American kestrel, for instance, has experienced a sharp decline in recent years, and the work of biologists in the Endangered and Nongame... Read more →

The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife is going to resume cutting at the Sparta Mountain Wildlife Management Area on or about February 12, 2021. The objective of this restoration is to open the forest canopy to allow for the growth of young oak and hickory trees, blackberries, sedges, and a variety of other shrubs and sapling species. This will create breeding and/or foraging habitat for the 80 different bird species that have been observed using other managed sites on Sparta Mountain WMA. “The DEP is back with more logging. They are going to be logging another 9.2 acres on top of the 35 acres they’ve already logged on Sparta Mountain. This is death by a thousand cuts. The forests in the Highlands act... Read more →

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is looking at acquiring an additional 182 acres next to the Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Salem County, NJ. The land is currently privately owned and consists of undeveloped wetlands and marsh. The Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1974 and contains over 3,000 acres of wildlife habitat. “In a win for open space and preserving wildlife habitat, the federal government is looking at buying 182 more acres to expand the Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. Expanding this wildlife refuge is critical. It is a brackish tidal marsh that is critical for all kinds of birds, including ospreys and bald eagles and a variety of ducks. This area is also a breeding ground for fish and... Read more →

by Keith Lockwood, Maryland Department of Natural Resources fisheries biologist. February 3, 2021 Photo by Monty Hawkins Despite cold mid-winter weather, anglers across Maryland are enjoying fun fishing experiences ranging from the preseason stockings of trout, to chain pickerel and blue catfish, to tautog in the offshore waters off our coast. Forecast Summary: February: With Bay temperatures in the upper 30s, Chesapeake Bay fish are in winter holding areas. With plenty of cool waters and oxygen from surface to bottom, look for concentrations of fish in some of the remaining warm water areas. In the main bay, warmer bottom waters deeper than 50 feet are located from the Bay Bridge south to near the Virginia State line, in areas with good structure and protection from... Read more →

Gloucestercitynews.net files February 1, 2021 Feb. 6 — Statewide Joint Youth and Veterans/Military Waterfowl Hunt Day Feb. 13 — Statewide Veterans/Military ONLY Waterfowl Hunt Day On Saturday, February 6, 2021, a "joint" Youth and Veterans/Active Military Hunting Day will be held statewide. This day will give properly licensed youth hunters, veterans and active duty military personnel the opportunity to share a unique hunting experience together. The following Saturday, February 13, 2021, a statewide Veterans/Active Military Hunting Day will be held. Active duty military personnel includes members of Armed Forces on active duty, including National Guard and Reserves (other than active duty for training). Veterans includes those who served in the active military, naval or air service and who were discharged or released therefrom under conditions... Read more →

On January 28, 2021, James J. Pierman of Gloucester City, passed away at age 67. Loving and devoted husband of 40 years to Kathleen L. Pierman (nee Loope). Loving father of John Pierman. Cherished son of the late Samuel Pierman and Mary Torpey Pierman. Also predeceased by his step-mother Maryann McQuiad Pierman. Beloved brother of Samuel Pierman, Thomas Pierman (Barbara), Michael McQuaid and Patricia Daly (Carl) and brother-in-law of Anna Mary Loope. Beloved uncle of Samuel Pierman (Helen), Tom Pierman (Robyn), Wendy Chapman (Mark), Maryann McPherson (Mark), Scott Pierman and Nicole Smalley (Josh Knorovsky). Also survived by lots of Great Nephews & Great Nieces. James Graduated from Gloucester City High School in 1971, Gloucester County Technical School and was a certified inspector thru NAESA International,... Read more →

Hunters are reminded to remove their portable deer stands from state wildlife areas by Monday, Feb. 15 now that Delaware’s 2020/2021 deer hunting seasons have closed. Any deer stands found on state wildlife areas after that date will become the property of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Hunters can temporarily set up portable deer stands on state wildlife areas each year starting Aug. 1 and must remove the stands when all deer seasons have closed. Placement of a temporary deer stand on a state wildlife area does not provide exclusive rights for a hunter to hunt from that stand. Under state wildlife area rules, portable deer stands cannot be nailed or bolted to a tree and hunters are prohibited from cutting any... Read more →

On January 25, 2021. Age 63. Of Mt. Ephraim. Born in Camden, NJ he was the son of the late Franklin T. and Elizabeth Ann (Ward) Ross. Tim is survived by his brothers, Gary Ross (Meagan), Ken Ross (Peggy); many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many close friends. Tim was also predeceased by his brothers, Franklin T. Ross, Jr. and Pat Ross. Tim was employed for more 40 years as a Press Operator for Maggio Printing in Bellmawr, NJ. He was an avid Phillies and Eagles fan who enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Tim loved to go fishing, he would always make time to put a hook in the water. Honoring Tim’s wishes, cremation is private and Mass of Christian Burial... Read more →

Snow Goose Conservation Order and Youth Waterfowl Hunting Day Open; Multiple Hunting and Trapping Seasons Continue Additional waterfowl hunting opportunities are available in February with the opening of the Snow Goose Conservation Order Monday, Feb. 1 and a second special youth waterfowl hunting day Saturday, Feb. 6. Information for hunters is available from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control at de.gov/hunting. Snow Goose Conservation Order The Snow Goose Conservation Order is open Monday, Feb. 1 through Friday, Feb. 5, closing for the youth waterfowl hunting day on Saturday, Feb. 6, and reopening on Monday, Feb. 8 through Friday, April 9, excluding Sundays. Note the printed 2020/2021 Delaware Hunting & Trapping Guide incorrectly indicates the Snow Goose Conservation Order is open Saturday, Feb... Read more →

Ice Fishing 101 February 5, 2021 – 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. The Ice Fishing 101 is part of the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife’s “Outdoor Family of New Jersey” (OFNJ) program. OFNJ programs are designed to provide a welcoming environment in which to learn outdoor skills for both families and individuals. About the Virtual Program: Participants will meet up on GoToWebinar for a live presentation to get introduced to the sport of ice fishing by Fish and Wildlife Biologist and ice fishing enthusiast Keith Griglak. Each winter if there is fishable ice you can find Keith on it fishing with his family or by himself. This virtual workshop will cover the basics of ice fishing including ice safety, staying warm and dry, targeting... Read more →

Stay on Top of This Year's Migration Today is the first official migration update for 2021. Middle Creek staff looks forward to sharing our observations with you as the migration season continues. While the last year has certainly been challenging and different, the snow geese and other waterfowl that call Middle Creek home at this time of year didn’t get the memo as they have been continuing their migration on schedule. While most of Middle Creek Lake is frozen, snow geese, tundra swans, Canada geese, and a variety of duck species are still utilizing the lake as an overnight roost. Currently, Middle Creek and the surrounding landscape is free from snow offering waste grains for waterfowl to feed on during the day. With snow and... Read more →