President's Letter

by Randy Zarnke

The 2010 Fling was a big success. Thanks to Coordinators Rodney Vesper and Angel Knapp, we had another fun and productive gathering. NTA Vice President Karola Own joined us for the weekend. We sent her back Outside with some fond memories of Alaska and a nice check which represented ATA's annual donation to NTA. Neil Lehner was awarded the Dean Wilson scholarship. He will use the money to support his study of arctic fox. Ken Deardorff of McGrath was honored as the Fabian Carey Trapper of the Year. Fortunately, Ken was in Fairbanks for the event. We sure surprised him with the award. Thanks to everyone who helped make The Fling a great event.

Similarly, the fur auction here in Fairbanks was also a success. Many thanks to John Zuleger and a host of volunteers who put that event together. John instituted a few new twists to the operation and they worked out well. That's the kind of creative thinking that will keep ATA vibrant and growing. We put a few dollars in the pockets of individuals and in our ATA treasury, as well. The great March weather here in the Interior put everyone in a good mood and added to the festive atmosphere.

Ryan Ragan, our editor for the past season has decided to enroll in grad school. That time commitment will make it impossible for him to continue editing this magazine. Ryan brought a fresh perspective to the job. We'll miss the bold appearance which he gave to the pages of this periodical. We wish him well in his return to the academic world.

The Board of Game meeting in Fairbanks turned out pretty good for trappers in the Interior. The Board gave us more flexibility in lynx seasons. That's something that we've been hearing from trappers for the past decade. The Board also eliminated the wolf trapping buffer zone around McKinley Park. That change brought some real-life benefits for a few trappers and a more symbolic benefit to consumptive users throughout the State. It felt good to hear someone say "NO" to the folks who want to continually take away our areas or seasons or equipment. Let's hope that this becomes a trend.

I was recently contacted by the manufacturer of Duck brand duct tape. After providing the info they requested, it occurred to me that we might be able to derive some benefit from the interaction. I proposed that ATA conduct a contest among our members to find the most creative trapline uses for their product. The manufacturer loved the idea. We will provide more details for readers in the September issue of the magazine. In the meantime, be sure to take good photos of YOUR favorite use for duct tape.

It's that time of year again... time to put the traps away. For the next few months, we'll have to be content with catching fish. Don't despair... trapping season will be back soon enough. Have a good summer.