|
President's Letter
by Randy Zarnke
Lots of good news for ATA members this month …
The Board of Game approved our proposal to change the lynx season in the Interior
back to a standard three month season (December - February), with a special allowance
of two animals in November. We had heard lots of comments about how the old system
was not working. Therefore, we submitted this revision on behalf of our membership.
Remember this action the next time that a prospective member asks, "What can ATA do
for me?"
The Fling was another success, under the direction of Ellie and Dan Tempel and Jessica
and Kyle Davison. We owe them a debt of gratitude. They worked hard to make the
event run smoothly. Their efforts were successful. This is our biggest event of
the year. It sets the tone for more than just that single night. Everyone had a
good time and we made a few bucks. What more could we ask for?
President Kraig Kaatz of the National Trappers Association was in town for The Fling.
We kept him busy with fun activities. In return, Kraig shared lots of good advice
with us regarding future programs. For example, NTA (or to be more precise, Furbearers
Unlimited) will hopefully be joining ATA as a sponsor of the trapping and hunting
exhibit at the University of Alaska Museum this coming summer. This exhibit will
share our message with more than 75,000 visitors. Kraig was also able to re-connect
with some long-lost shirt-tail relation during his visit. He was very happy to spend
some time with the James family of Northway.
The fur auctions in both Anchorage and Fairbanks were big successes. Both events
were blessed with favorable weather. Prices for most items were higher than expected.
That translates into extra dollars in the trappers' pockets. We like that! Lynn
Keogh and a cast of thousands were responsible for the Anchorage event. Marty Middelstadt
was the primary organizer here in Fairbanks.
One of our long-term members has suggested that we revive the "Letters to the Editor"
eature in our magazine. I recall some stimulating letters in past years. Perhaps
it would be a good idea to bring back this feature. However, we can't do it without
you. Feel free to share your thoughts on any topic related to trapping and/or the
ATA.
Another member suggested that we encourage members to submit "end-of-season" photos
of fur caught during the year. I enjoy these photos too, especially when the furs
are carefully arranged and the bright sunlight of spring highlights the beautiful
furs. Send 'em in. We'll print the good ones.
One cautionary note to end this message: A guy who lost his dog to a snare this past
winter has requested that trappers near urban centers be encouraged to post signs
near trail-heads. He was totally unaware of any trapping activity in the area where
he lost his dog. If he had known that a trapper was working in the vicinity, he wouldn't
have let his dog off its leash. Let's all be extra careful when trapping near locations
of human (and dog) activity.
Now, go out there and have fun for a few months. Catch a fish. Climb a mountain.
Enjoy the summer. Don't get depressed that trapping season is over. Next season
starts in just about seven more months!
|