Last year nearly 25,000 hunters applied for almost 6,000 permits to hunt for deer in 143 managed locations in Missouri. The annual application period is open from July 1 through July 31, so now is the time to study the results from previous seasons to determine when and where works best for you. The ManagedContinue reading “Managed deer hunt applications available online in July”
Author Archives: John J. Winkelman
Hummingbirds spread out during summer months
After hearing from several readers about their observations of what seemed like fewer hummingbirds this spring, I checked in with state Department of Conservation ornithologist Kristen Heath-Acre to learn if there was an issue with the little bird’s numbers. While other migratory bird populations have plummeted, she said the hummers are actually in an oppositeContinue reading “Hummingbirds spread out during summer months”
Ten (or so) places to take the kids for summer adventures and learning
A friend of ours asked for recommendations for local places to take her children during their summer vacation. She planned to visit one new location each week for the kids to explore and learn. I thought it was a great idea, so I assembled my ten best suggestions. She did not put any restrictions onContinue reading “Ten (or so) places to take the kids for summer adventures and learning”
Scenic course experience exposes popularity of disc golf
While it might not come to mind as a traditional outdoors sport, it would be difficult to play disc golf anywhere except outside. Jefferson County has several locations, so I have had many opportunities over the years to give the game a shot. Many decades ago when I was in college, we played what weContinue reading “Scenic course experience exposes popularity of disc golf”
High school fishing teams open the sport to all students
As most schools are putting the wraps on sports for the spring, students on area fishing teams are entering the best time of year for serious practice. Summer vacation offers many perks, and the long days of the season provide adequate opportunity for making as many casts as possible. “Kids are so busy with activitiesContinue reading “High school fishing teams open the sport to all students”
State plans permit price increases for third consecutive year
Just ahead of free fishing weekend, the state Department of Conservation is proposing increases in the cost of permits for the third year in a row. Based on the input it collected from hunters and residents in a survey this spring, the biggest boost will be on the backs of nonresident deer and turkey hunters.Continue reading “State plans permit price increases for third consecutive year”
County records 17 new positive CWD tests in 2024-25 season
Jefferson County and its neighbors continue to rack up substantial increases in cases of chronic wasting disease discovered in deer harvested by hunters. After increasing its total by more that 50% last year, Jefferson recorded an increased number of cases again this year, according to an annual report issued by the state Department of Conservation.Continue reading “County records 17 new positive CWD tests in 2024-25 season”
County schools dominate state archery tournament
The podium was a popular place for Jefferson County archers at the National Archery in Schools Program state tournament on March 19 through 22 in Branson, Missouri. Twenty-three area schools participated in the bullseye tournament and proved the point that these kids are good. Wade Conner, a sophomore at Hillsboro High School, shot a scoreContinue reading “County schools dominate state archery tournament”
Annual buyback program incentivizes invasive pear tree removal
The city of Herculaneum and a few other online sources have recently posted helpful tips for pruning Bradford pear trees. The once-revered ornamental landscaping plants are now recognized as invasive, and they have a particular trait of breaking branches easily in wind and ice storms. Recent spring storms may have brought the need for treeContinue reading “Annual buyback program incentivizes invasive pear tree removal”
State surveys hunters on possible non-resident restrictions
To participate in the survey go to mdc.mo.gov/MDChuntersurvey. The deadline to complete the survey is March 24. One of the most contentious but least consequential issues that hunters argue about involves non-residents who come to our state to hunt for deer, turkey and waterfowl. The state Department of Conservation is asking hunters and the publicContinue reading “State surveys hunters on possible non-resident restrictions”
Don't Call Me Outdoor John 