Fresh Tracks Weekly

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we're switching gears from our usual deep dives into public land policy and instead catching up with the crew to talk about springtime plans and upcoming hunts. But don't worry—we still have the news segment covering some updates on wildlife and conservation across the country. In this episode: Montana Wildlife Crossings – A new bill is one step away from becoming law, creating a Wildlife Highway Crossing Account. We look at how similar programs in Wyoming and Nevada have proven to save both wildlife and money. Closures by the Army Corps of Engineers – Staffing shortages are leading to campground and visitor center closures across several western states. We discuss the impacts. Fishing Deregulation – A new executive order is aimed at loosening restrictions on commercial fishing. Supporters say it'll help the industry—critics warn of long-term consequences to ocean health. Interior Department Strategic Plan Leaked – A leaked draft shows a strong push for resource extraction and land development, with some mixed messaging on grazing and species protection. Alabama Cervid Bills – Two bills are moving forward that would severely restrict the state's ability to regulate the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD). We break down the potential implications for wild deer populations. Grizzlies in California? – A new study says the Golden State could support over 1,000 grizzly bears. We take a look at the proposed recovery zones and the big question: Will California actually follow through? And to wrap it up, we're talking spring hunts—what's on the calendar and what the crew's excited about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we're exploring our ideas for improving government efficiency in the outdoors – D.O.G.E. style. Randy shares some ideas on how the government could improve its functionality when managing public lands and questions why these efficiency tools aren't already being used. But first, a few news stories: Mossy Oak Turkey Stamp Learn how you can support wild turkey conservation through Mossy Oak's Conservation Stamp—100% of proceeds go to turkey research that benefits populations nationwide. Controversial Conservation Easement Bill Two Congresswomen introduced a bill that limits landowner options under the guise of increasing rights. We break down why this bill could hurt long-term land conservation efforts. Louisiana Land Sale Scandal A shady land deal in Louisiana potentially robbed the public of river access and millions in value, raising questions about state-level land transfers and government accountability. Public Lands Rule Likely Death The Public Lands Rule—meant to elevate conservation to the same level as extractive uses—may be on the chopping block, without a chance for public comment, despite overwhelming support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we follow up on last week's budget reconciliation deep dive and talk about the push to sell off public lands. A failed amendment revealed which lawmakers are backing this controversial move — and who's fighting to keep our lands public. We also cover the latest outdoor and conservation news: The U.S. Supreme Court weighs in on federal employee firings, impacting 16,000 workers. How the loss of key NOAA and wildlife biologists could derail salmon and grizzly bear recovery. New 2024 Chronic Wasting Disease data from Wyoming shows concerning spread in deer and elk populations. After a 9-year legal fight, 50,000 acres of public land in Colorado are now open to the public. “Freedom Cities” and what they could mean for over 500,000 acres of BLM land in Nevada. Plus, one Idaho congressman makes a surprising move to protect public lands. Dive in, stay informed, and join the conversation to help keep public lands in public hands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Randy checks in from Washington D.C. where he's meeting with lawmakers and staffers to get the latest on public land policy—and sound the alarm on new efforts to sell off public lands. With major decisions looming, we break down what's at stake and how it could impact access and conservation across the country. We also cover a wide range of wildlife and land management stories from around the West:

This week, we have Jared Frasier from what was previously 2% For Conservation. They are relaunching as Fish and Wildlife Volunteers, and Jared explains why the relaunch was necessary and how businesses and individuals can get involved. A few news stories also include. A few weeks ago, the Alaska state supreme court ruled that the Department of Game and Fish needed to halt its intensive predator management program, claiming it was unconstitutional. In Montana, a significant amendment to the water rights bill would have allowed sales of isolated state land within the state. Congressman Jeff Hurd has introduced the “Productive Public Lands Act,” which aims to reverse decisions made on Bureau of Land Management resource management plans in recent years for multiple areas within Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Oregon. A former Wyoming Game warden and Game and Fish director will likely be the new director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing the recent announcement from the Department of Interior to use Federal Land to help with the Housing Affordability crisis. Also, some news stories from the week include Big news for corner crossing in multiple states. The U.S. 10 Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling for the four hunters sued by a private landowner for corner crossing in Wyoming. Department of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum recently announced plans to open more of Alaska to oil and gas leasing. In Idaho, the state senate has called for the state to take over control of the Camas National Wildlife Refuge from the federal government. Montana re-introduced a Joint Resolution in which they want to make a statement that Montana supports Utah's claim that federal ownership of public lands is unconstitutional. A press release from the U.S. Department of Interior this week details a recent auction in which the Bureau of Land Management sold off $16.5 million worth of land in the Las Vegas area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing the land and water conservation fund, how it's one of the greatest conservation tools we have, and how, with all the chaos of trying to pass a budget, some LWCF projects could fall through the cracks if Congress doesn't release funds. Some news stories also include. In Colorado, several ranchers were granted compensation for damages to their livestock herds caused by newly reintroduced wolves, which used up almost the entire wolf damage budget. In Wyoming, black-footed ferrets face a challenging year ahead as key employees have been fired and funding frozen from the Department of Government Efficiency efforts. Andrew McKean wrote an article summarizing some of the recent turmoil within federal agencies, which gives insight into what conservation might look like over the next four years. In Montana, the legislature is halfway through with some interesting things coming out of the woodwork. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're discussing how a significant amount of Bureau of Land Management land has already been identified as suitable for disposal and would not require Congressional approval to sell. There is still much uncertainty about the status of the federal employees who were fired in the last month. A judge did, however, rule that the Office of Personnel Management should rescind the memos that fired certain employees. The Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act was recently introduced in the U.S. Senate. It would reauthorize and fund the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program at three times the current rate. We also cover various state legislation that could impact hunting, fishing, or public land in your state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're discussing the drastic changes we've seen over the last month within our federal agencies and how thousands of people have been fired. Randy details his idea of Government Efficiency. A few news stories are also included. A Montana bill has been introduced that would take money generated from the tax on marijuana that currently goes towards funding wildlife habitats, parks, and non-game wildlife and re-direct it to the general fund and various marijuana addiction and prevention accounts. Another interesting bill in Montana would allow Fish Wildlife and Parks to compensate landowners for allowing access through their property to hunt inaccessible public land. In Wyoming, even more elk have been found dead from chronic wasting disease at one of the state-run feed-grounds. In Colorado, House Bill 25-1133 would prohibit 18 - to 20-year-olds from purchasing ammunition. This follows 2023 legislation prohibiting 18-20-year-olds from purchasing semi-auto rifles and shotguns. In Alaska, the Governor introduced legislation, Senate Bill 105, that creates opportunities for residents to purchase or lease state land for cabin sites. If you're watching this video right now. Public testimony is being heard in the Senate Resources Committee right now. In Kentucky, Senate Bill 89 would change how they define water within the state, abandoning its definition in exchange for the federal definition of navigable waters, which removes protections for wetlands, headwaters, and groundwater. In Indiana, House Bill 1447 would restrict logging and forest management within particular state forests. In Washington, House Bill 1775 would phase out and ultimately ban fur farming within the state. That bill narrowly passed out of committee and is moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fresh Tracks Weekly, we take a deep dive into Alaska's board of game with Jim Baichtal.   Then, we dive into Colorado's controversial HB 1258, which could shift wildlife management from mandatory hunting and fishing to optional, opening the door for litigation. We also cover Colorado's successful bighorn sheep translocation project, funded by hunters, and discuss concerning CWD cases in Wyoming's elk feed grounds. Plus, Idaho announces changes to non-resident tag systems and mule deer conservation efforts, while Colorado prepares for big changes to its tag draw system by 2028. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of Fresh Tracks Weekly, Randy and Marcus dive into the ongoing debate over federal land management. They discuss potential solutions that would allow Congress to manage our public lands properly—without resorting to selling them off to state land boards. From funding challenges to policy changes, they explore ways to keep these lands accessible for future generations. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on protecting our public lands and ensuring they remain in public hands! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fresh Tracks Weekly, Marcus and Randy break down the harsh reality of federal land transfers and what they mean for recreational shooters. If federal lands are handed over to state land boards, millions of acres currently open to target shooting could be lost forever. They discuss real-world examples, the differences in land management policies, and why public land advocates should be paying attention. Don't take access for granted—tune in to find out what's at stake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are continuing the series talking about transferring federal land to the states and, in particular, how Congress has the ability to fix a lot of the issues with land management; they just refuse to do so. Some other news stories include; Trump's executive order to pause federal grants and funding led to panic and confusion amongst many in the conservation world as billions in funding was about to be cut off. A bill in Wyoming popped up that would have made private landowner tags transferable, sending wildlife down a path of privatization. Another bill in Wyoming aims to make mountain lion hunting wide open within the state. At the national level, a bill has been re-introduced into Congress that would require congressional approval for the sale and transfer of public lands to non-federal entities in most instances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're discussing transferring federal land to the states and in particular state land boards, what a state land board is, what their responsibilities are and the history of them selling off their land. The big news story from the week is president Trump's executive orders and what they might mean to public land users and hunters. Backcountry Hunter's and Anglers released a statement detailing some of the changes that will come from the result of the orders in Alaska. In Wyoming the executive orders also have the potential to impact public lands primarily through reducing barriers and regulations to oil and gas energy development and lifting the liquified natural gas export ban. In Washington a number of bills have been introduced in relation to firearms and ammunition. Also in Washington, a new report is suggesting major changes to the Fish and Wildlife commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Randy and I are kicking off a series about public land transfer and how the same old ideas of selling and transferring public lands are popping back up. We'll revisit how Utah has been pushing the idea of transferring federal land to the state and how the Supreme Court recently shut them down. The Supreme Court's refusal to hear the case was certainly a win for public land advocates, but this idea and movement are not going away anytime soon. So, Randy is going to break down the idea of land transfer topic by topic over the next few weeks. Legislatures across the country are now in session, and there are plenty of good things that could benefit hunters and public land users, but there are also a LOT of bad bills that could make things worse for us. In Montana, a hot-button bill that immediately raised eyebrows was one to prohibit the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Commission from closing down rut hunting of mule deer within the state. In Wyoming, a bipartisan bill has been filed that would make corner crossing legal across the entire state. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently rejected petitions from Montana and Wyoming to delist grizzly bears as threatened from the Endangered Species List. In Oregon, the Army Corps of Engineers plans to draw down Detroit Lake by around 55 feet, essentially temporarily transforming the system back into a river to help juvenile salmon migrate downstream and more easily pass through the dam. The National Elk Refuge is reevaluating its elk feeding program, where thousands of elk are concentrated and fed every year in northwestern Wyoming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hunting season is in full swing, but Randy is fired up! So we sat down for a quick conversation about selling or transferring federal public lands. JD Vance recently mentioned the idea of transferring federal land to the states to address housing affordability along with the Biden administration talking about building housing on federal land. Randy's series on Public Land Transfer is still very relevant. Check it out here. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLdxutimd-JvLtlmkrjgsehgJ46BX-lhP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're discussing how wildlife and habitat are often used as currency to pay for our high standards of living and lower energy costs. We also discuss how issues are very often only evaluated economically and not biologically. In Montana, a judge just ruled in favor of Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks in a case in which a private landowner group sued the state for failing to kill enough elk. In Massachusetts, an Act Modernizing Firearm Laws was recently signed into law, which will significantly impact hunters. We have an update in Colorado: The proposal to ban mountain lion, lynx, and bobcat hunting within the state will be on the ballot in November. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a voluntary pilot program to incentivize the use of non-lead ammo in National Wildlife Refuges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're discussing Wyoming's recent ban on conservation groups bidding on oil and gas leases on state land and how, by doing so, they might actually be hurting the school system that they're obligated to fund. A recently published study shows how human recreation and noise can negatively impact wildlife by displacing them and keeping them out of the area for extended periods. In Wyoming, billionaire Joe Ricketts has halted construction on a massive resort near a small town along a mule deer migration corridor. A story in the Wyoming Games and Fish Wildlife Magazine highlighted the struggles wildlife face when it comes to fences on the landscape. Anti-hunting groups in Colorado have been collecting signatures for a ballot measure to ban mountain lion hunting within the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, for our deeper dive, we're talking about a new research project on Chronic Wasting Disease in Wyoming and how the best available science to slow the spread of the disease is likely not what hunters want to hear. In Wyoming, a ranch and family are attempting to close down a road that accesses a significant amount of public land. The road is also a primary access point for other landowners and the county. Andrew McKean with Outdoor Life recently published an article that dissects a new report that shows declining support for hunting and recreational shooting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're discussing how you might be a jerk on public lands and not even realize it. A few news stories from this week include the following: A quick update on Colorado's proposal to do away with non-resident over-the-counter archery elk tags. In Montana, American Prairie just acquired 12,500 more acres of land, bringing its total between deeded and leased property to 475,000 acres. In Wyoming, Joe Ricketts, the founder of TD Ameritrade, has been attempting to build a luxury resort in the heart of prime elk and moose wintering ground and on the Sublette mule deer migration corridor. A new update to wildfire risk.org has shown that significantly more people and homes are at risk of wildfire than previously thought. In New Mexico, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Bureau of Land Management, and several other partners supplied funding for new water sources for wildlife in the Sierra Padrones, Polvadera, and Chupadera mountains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we discuss how Colorado might shift away from over-the-counter opportunities for non-resident archery elk hunting. In Texas, the Parks and Wildlife Department killed off an entire herd of high-fence white-tailed deer after a severe Chronic wasting Disease outbreak and years of legal battles. In Montana, Governor Greg Gianforte is again in the spotlight after the New York Times published a story highlighting some new information on his questionable wolf-trapping incident from a few years back. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation recently announced the completion of a land and conservation access project in Southeast Wyoming, which resulted in 6660 acres of permanent public access. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we discussed some potential conflicts of interest within Fish and Wildlife commissions and how certain individuals could directly benefit from their votes as commissioners. In Montana, the statewide mule deer permit was recently raffled off by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, raising a record amount of money for mule deer conservation. Last December, the Duck Stamp Modernization Act was signed into law. This act will allow federal duck stamps to be purchased online, and an E-Stamp will be valid throughout the season. In Tennessee, the Wildlife Resources Agency recently lost its appeal over a previous decision that had ended the use of the open field doctrine within the state. A New study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that Chronic Wasting Disease is unlikely to transfer from other species to humans. In Washington, the Fish and Wildlife Commission voted to change mountain lion hunting regulations and seasons, reducing hunting opportunities. The department is accepting public comment on the matter until June 21. Comment on Washington's Cougar Season https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/regulations/development/cougar-hunting-seasons Howl For Wildlife Call to Action on WA Cougars https://www.howlforwildlife.org/wacougarjune24 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are talking about Wild Horses in the West. They've been overpopulated on public lands for years… but have finally seen the biggest single-year population reduction since 1985. Randy failed to mention last week that he received the Wallace Pate award at the RMEF celebration. This is the highest conservation honor that RMEF gives out! Link to video on the award: https://youtu.be/0MJ8wd0Z1o0?si=yzhEIYAuB_pEB9Bs We have a quick update on the Corner crossing case in Wyoming. Oral arguments for the legal case were recently held at the 10 Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver. We cover the highly anticipated news that Debbie Colbert is the new Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Director. We have an update on the bill in Vermont that would have changed who has authority over fish and wildlife management. It has failed to move forward and is dead for all intents and purposes. In Wyoming, the Bureau of Land Management has proposed ending coal leasing in the Powder River Basin, which includes Northeast Wyoming and southern Montana. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Randy Newberg TAKEOVER!  Marcus and Michael are busy catching Walleye and Smallmouth so Randy stepped in to deliver this week's news. On this week's episode, we are celebrating Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation's 40th Anniversary. In the last 40 years, RMEF has amassed 12,000 members, conserved 8.9 million acres as well as improved or secured access for 1.5 million acres. The mission continues!  To signup for RMEF visit this link - https://www.rmef.org/join/ 40th Anniversary Articles https://www.rmef.org/elk-network/celebrating-40-years-of-volunteers/ https://www.rmef.org/40th-anniversary/page/2/ Also on this week's episode, Randy digs into the “politicizing of wildlife management”. Nevada, Vermont and Kansas are in the news for bills that could shake up their Wildlife Commissions appointment process.  Nevada - https://knpr.org/show/knprs-state-of- nevada/2024-04-26/why-nevadas-wildlife-commission-is-under-scrutiny Vermont- https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2024/S.258 https://www.howlforwildlife.org/vts258 Kansas - https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2530/ https://congressionalsportsmen.org/news/commission-restructuring-bill-gains- momentum-during-kansas-veto-session/ To get involved and stay in the know, consider signing up for HOWL's email list - www.howlforwildlife.org Upcoming news! The Wyoming corner crossing case appears at the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver. To catch up on the case, check out the below links.  https://wyofile.com/corner-crossing-hunters-cattle-king-era-is-over/ https://publicland.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/opinion-in-wyoming-corner-crossing- lawsuit.pdf Lastly, a severe case of Mange will be impacting the Eastern Black Bear populations of Virginia and many neighboring states.  The WyldLife Fund - Pronghorn Fund - https://thewyldlifefund.org/preserving-wyomings-crown-jewel-the-pronghorn-fund/ For this week's deeper dive, Randy plays referee in the latest game of Political Football. The House of Representatives just passed the WEST Act, an Act that would eliminate the BLMs current proposal to put conservation and landscape productivity on the same footing as other uses under the “Multiple Use” mandates Federal land agencies are required to operate under. To read the entire 176 page proposal, the WEST Act, and editorials from Outdoor Life, check out the below links. https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/blm-rule-controversy/ https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/blm-public-lands-rule-proposal/ https://www.blm.gov/public-lands-rule https://www.blm.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2024-04/BLM-Conservation-Landscape- Health-Final-Rule.pdf https://www.blm.gov/press-release/interior-department-releases-proposed-plan-guide- balanced-management-public-lands Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are talking about the overall decline of wildlife, shifting baselines, and the biggest factors that affect long-term population levels. Randy Newberg, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, and Congressman Bruce Westerman received Theodore Roosevelt's Conservation Awards for 2024! We have a quick recap from last week's episode. Michael, Jace, Kara, and I went to shoot in the NRL hunter competition in Idaho, where we learned a lot about precision shooting. In Pennsylvania, two bills have been introduced that could remove the longstanding prohibition of Sunday hunting. President Biden just expanded the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument by nearly 14 thousand acres to protect an 11-mile-long ridgeline named Molok Luyuk, which means Condor Ridge in the Native Patwin people's language. Wildlife biologists are beginning to test the feasibility and accuracy of using drones to conduct population surveys, in particular, drones with thermal cameras that can detect animal heat signatures through various covers. An article by Doc Collins, recently published in Outdoor Life, summarized recent legislation passed by the U.S. House of Representatives that could significantly impact hunters and anglers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're discussing a news series we're creating to become a better shot with a rifle but also how recreational shooters might contribute more money to conservation than hunters. A few news stories from this week include the following. In Alaska the Bureau of Land management has released their final supplemental environmental impact statement in regards to the construction of the Ambler Road where they have recommended "No Action". News of chronic wasting disease potentially infecting humans has been spreading like wild fire in national news, but our friend Jim Heffelfinger has pointed out that the article that is often being cited, is NOT a scientific study, it is simply a short report of events. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife just released their draft black bear conservation plan that shows that bear populations are thriving in the state and there is more than enough room for hunter harvest. Link to California Draft Black Bear Conservation Plan https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Mammals/Black-Bear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're discussing what creates hunting culture and how it changes over time and by region. This week, we have just a few headlines, including a bill that, if voters approve it, could impose an additional tax on firearms and ammunition in Colorado. Boulder County implemented a hunting ban that the Forest Service argues is unauthorized, and researchers across the West have put out a new volume of Wildlife Migration routes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're talking about how there's a potential threat to the public's ownership of fish and wildlife as the Georgia Legislature passed a bill that stripped language from a law that had to do with the public trust doctrine. A few news stories that we also cover include; The Alaska Governor recently announced new appointments to the Board of Fisheries and Board of Game which included Fresh Tracks regular, Jim Baichtal! A study in Michigan has been trying to figure out if they can vaccinate wild deer for bovine tuberculosis via an edible bait. In Grand Teton National Park it was reported that the removal of mountain goats has continued with 15 were killed within the park in 2023 and they estimate around 10-20 goats remain in the Teton Range. A Dairy worker in Texas recently contracted the bird flu making him the 2nd person in the United States to be reported. In Wyoming a man has been accused of running down a wolf with a snowmobile, catching it while still alive, taping its mouth shut and then bringing it home with him and then bringing it to a bar, before finally killing it. The first large-scale wildlife overpass in Idaho was finished last year and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership put out an article detailing the project and initial success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing how non-profits will sue federal agencies to stop them from managing land and how they use the Equal Access to Justice Act to profit from the lawsuits. Also, a few headlines we found interesting include; In Washington, the push to restore grizzly bears in the North Cascades continues, with the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service publishing their final Environmental Impact Statements. Wolves have potentially been sighted in Nevada, which is definitely not a normal occurrence for the state. Are they there to stay? Or are they Passing through? The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation recently announced that they have committed over $760,000 to numerous projects in Utah to improve wildlife habitat, further wildlife management and bolster research and hunting support. In Vermont, there have been a few updates and amendments to the legislation that would change how the state's wildlife board functions, along with changes to coyote hunting regulations. In Wyoming, the Legislative session has wrapped up, and Josh Metten with the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership has compiled a list of some of the state's conservation wins. Contact your Elected Officials https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we discuss how the Arizona Game and Fish Commission just voted to cancel its auction permits, which had previously raised millions of dollars for conservation. In addition to that, we touch on a few headlines and legislative updates. In Montana, a bill from the last legislative session is still in the air. SB442 is in headlines again, as the mail-out ballots are being sent out to determine whether the Governor's veto can be overridden. The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership recently published some highlights and disappointments of recent congressional appropriations from the perspective of hunters and anglers. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Boone and Crocket Club's respective CEOs, Kyle Weaver and Tony Schoonen, recently wrote a joint op-ed in which they discussed their frustrations with environmental groups blocking forest management. Montana Legislature https://leg.mt.gov/legislator-informa... Link to Letter signed by members of MT Senate https://dailymontanan.com/wp-content/... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing putting more animals on the mountain, with bighorn sheep in Montana as the main example. We will also briefly cover the following headlines. In Kentucky, a bill has passed out of Committee and to the Senate that could have significant consequences for the Kentucky Department of Wildlife Resources and, ultimately, the hunters and anglers in the state. The Arizona Game and Fish Commission is meeting today and potentially voting on whether or not to do away with their conservation permits. In Wyoming, the Game and Fish Commission just voted unanimously to pursue establishing protections for a pronghorn migration corridor. In Idaho, an effort has been made to pass a bill that would end the Open Fields Doctrine for conservation officers. This would essentially make it illegal for a game warden to check licenses or harvested animals on private land without a warrant. In Arizona, the Nature Conservancy recently received an 11.5 million dollar grant to purchase conservation easements in the Upper Verde River Watershed and Big Chino Grasslands. Page to look up your Kentucky Legislators https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/findyourlegislator/findyourlegislator.html Kentucky State Senators Contact https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/Legislators/smembers_county.html Idaho Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee https://www.billtrack50.com/committee/3566 Link to “Selfless” Film https://youtu.be/zJa3SeEmTn0?si=s7qFVrIfYz3FQEyB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are talking about screwing over the Non-resident hunter, how multiple states are adopting regulations that restrict numbers, restrict access, or raise prices for non-residents… along with a few news stories which include; In Montana, Fish Wildlife and Parks plans to give out a free moose, sheep, or goat license to residents who purchase a general deer or elk tag early. Also, in Montana, the State Supreme Court sided with the Department of Environmental Quality and the Black Butte Project regarding the controversial copper mine along the Switch River. Former head of the National Rifle Association, Wayne LaPierre, was recently ordered to repay 4.4 million dollars he had misspent of NRA money, along with retired finance chief Wilson Phillips being ordered to payback 2 million dollars. In Vermont a bill has been read in several committee hearings that would change how the states fish and wildlife board would function, how members are appointed along with changing certain coyote hunting regulations. In Iowa a bill has been progressing and has already passed the senate that would hamstring Iowa Department of Natural Resources ability to acquire property. In Oregon, a Wildlife Package bill has been introduced to provide funding to expand various wildlife programs and address invasive species issues in the state. Vermont Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy https://legislature.vermont.gov/committee/detail/2024/30 Iowa Legislature House Contact https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/house Oregon Joint Committee on Ways and Means Contact https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2024R1/Committees/JWM/Overview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are talking about YouTube and social media and why certain hunting content rises to the top, and why certain things come across your individual feed. We also have a few news stories to cover including: In Wyoming a bill is currently making its way through the state house of representatives that would pay private landowners who have elk grazing on their property. The bill would offer the affected landowners 150% of the market value of the grass. In Colorado, the allocation of big game licenses has been modified for the upcoming season to increase resident tags and decrease non-resident tags. In Mississippi a bill was recently introduced to create a Turkey stamp that is similar to the federal duck stamp, but to fund turkey specific conservation projects within the state. In Oregon a petition to get a ballot initiative to “End Animal Cruelty” is somehow still a thing. We talked about the attempt in the past to get this on the ballot which failed in 2022. In Nevada the first ever Moose season was officially approved for the fall 2024 season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we have a special guest, Kara Landolfi, and we will discuss some misconceptions about wild game meat. In addition to that, we have a few news stories we found interesting. In Idaho, a bill was recently introduced that would allow outfitters to purchase an additional bighorn sheep, mountain goat, or moose tag IF said outfitter fills a wolf tag while guiding. Also, in Idaho, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Idaho Fish and Game worked together to add an additional 328 acres to the Tex Creek Wildlife Management area. A new study conducted in Yellowstone National Park was recently published that compiled data over the last 20 years looking into the claim that wolves, grizzly bears, and mountain lions can restore ecosystems. A recent study was published looking into alternative testing methods for Chronic Wasting Disease. Contact Info for Senator Okuniewicz https://legislature.idaho.gov/legislators/membership/2023/id6706/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're going to talk about how hunting regulations impact wildlife populations and how people often over emphasize the impact hunters have on wildlife. In Nebraska, a bill was introduced that would transfer money out of the state game fund into the general fund along with transferring money from the Habitat fund and State parks fund into the general fund. In British Columbia the first cases of Chronic wasting disease were recently reported. In Alaska the State has updated the regulations for the Western Arctic Caribou Herd to reduce bag limits for all hunters. Read more about the bill in Nebraska here https://sportsmensalliance.org/news/nebraska-senator-mocks-citizens-supports-defunding-game-and-parks-department/ Contact Senator Steve Erdman here http://news.legislature.ne.gov/dist47/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are talking about the increase of hunters in the West, the increase in population in the Western states, and what it means for the future of wildlife and their habitats. Also, we talk about some of the friction between non-resident and resident hunters. In Washington, the bill to make hunting and fishing a constitutional right is making progress. The bill passed out of the Ag committee and moved onto the Rules committee. In Utah, seven different structures were recently completed to help fish and wildlife in the state. The TRCP recently posted a call to action to comment on the new U.S. Forest Service amendments to their nationwide management plans, particularly the promotion of old-growth forest conditions. An interesting article recently published by the Wildlife Society summarized a research project trying to understand how widespread the impacts of Renewable energy could be from analyzing carcasses or birds found at Solar and wind farms. Read about Washington's right to Hunt and Fish here https://www.howlforwildlife.org/wa_right_to_hunt_fish Contact info for WA Senate Rules Committee https://leg.wa.gov/Senate/Committees/RULE/Pages/MembersStaff.aspx Read the TRCP post on Forest Management here https://www.trcp.org/2024/01/23/weigh-in-on-forest-management-to-support-hunting-and-fishing/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are going to talk about a bill in Iowa which could have a rippling affect of displacing hunters, and the dangers of going down the road of privatizing hunting. The Bureau of Land Management recently released their roadmap for solar energy development on public lands in the west. In Montana a Judge recently ruled that lawmakers will have the ability to override Governor's Gianforte's controversial veto of bill last legislative session. In Colorado, the April Mountain lion season has been canceled, along with a statewide ban on electronic calls for lion hunting. Comment on the BLM Solar Road Map by emailing solar@blm.gov or going to this link https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2022371/510 To view documents and learn more about the BLM Solar Road Map https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2022371/510 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, our deeper dive is about recent proposals in Alaska that could shut down a ton of Caribou hunting for non-residents. Read Alaska Board of Game Proposals for upcoming meeting here: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=gameboard.meetinginfo&date=01-26-2024&meeting=kotzebue Submit Public Comment Here:https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/9af2ddc8fa584113a3d3d476ae9bef8b Read Outdoor Life Article here: https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/proposals-to-close-non-resident-caribou-hunting-in-northwest-alaska/ We bring the fishing corner back, checking in with what Michael has been up to. A few news items this week include: The Supreme Court recently denied the state of Alaska's request to overturn the EPA decision from last year that had blocked the Pebble mine in Bristol Bay. In Washington, a bill was recently introduced to make foraging, hunting, fishing and trapping a constitutional right. In Kentucky, the largest conservation easement in the state's history was recently announced. Link to MTN Tough Podcast with Dustin Diefenderfer https://youtu.be/iPxMihlswwk?si=2kDNEO2rORxizMSm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, we recap our crew's hunting season and jump into some news surrounding Colorado predators.  Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Backcountry BC and Ceasar Lake Outfitters  • https://backcountrybcandbeyond.com/ Randy's British Columbia Caribou & Moose  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0B0rIAww7hA&t=705s September Idaho Archery Elk with Randy and Michael • Episode 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ws0b8zBddPU • Episode 2 - https://youtu.be/u5AVhLhHrPc • Episode 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taRCaOcRn3A CPW Colorado Wolf Restoration and Management Plan  • https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/Wolves/2023-Final-CO-Wolf-Plan.pdf Initiative 91 - "Prohibit Trophy Hunting" •https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/Initiatives/titleBoard/filings/2023-2024/91Final.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of Fresh Tracks Weekly, we talk Hunter Ed. Funds, the infamous Winchester Dam, Randy shares an update from the Utah Pronghorn Field and for our Deeper Dive, Marcus and friends share their experiences as non-residents hunting in Alaska. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hunting Season is upon us!  On this week's episode, we cover on Oregon's IP3, the re-opening of Swan Lake National Wildlife Refugee, and House Bill 1300 in Pennsylvania. Also, Randy and Michael give us an update on their Idaho Elk hunt and we jump into our deeper dive topic of hunting in grizzly country.  Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are talking about a potential land swap in Nevada that could potentially cause the public to lose 150,000 acres of public land along with decreased access. We have a pretty sweet Fishing Corner with Michael Parente. The U.S. Fish Wildlife Service just announced that the Alexander Archipelago wolf was not warranted for listing under the endangered species act. California Department of Fish and Wildlife recently confirmed that there is a new wolf pack in the state more than 200 miles from the nearest known pack that resides in the Northeast corner of the state. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation just released a list of grant funding in Oregon to benefit elk, blacktail, mule deer and along with other wildlife and improving hunting opportunity. In Utah 3 domestic dogs were recently killed by mountain goats at a popular recreation area. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Randy and Marcus are going to talk about the recent interpretation of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act that has potentially led to funding being cut for hunter education and archery programs in schools. In Montana three women were attacked by a river otter while floating the Jefferson river. In Vail Colorado there is finally some closure on the long-term dispute over a proposed housing development on bighorn sheep winter range. In Montana the Alliance for the Wild Rockies recently won a court case against the Lewis and Clark National forest over the effectiveness or closed roads and their impacts to grizzly bears. In Arizona, President Biden recently designated a new national monument on either side of Grand Canyon National Park totaling over a million acres. The National Elk Refuge is seeking public comments to update their bison and elk management plan. Learn about and comment on the National Elk Refuge Bison and Elk Management Plan: https://www.fws.gov/project/upcoming-bison-elk-management-plan “Feeding The Problem” Documentary: https://www.pbs.org/video/montanapbs-presents-feeding-the-problem/ Contact your Senator: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm Contact your Representative: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative#:~:text=If%20you%20know%20who%20your,the%20U.S.%20House%20switchboard%20operator. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're going to do a deeper dive on Grizzly Bears. Talk about recent attacks, and the increasing frequency we've been running into them. In Nevada, feral horses are in the headlines again after animal advocacy groups are mad about the conditions in which horses are gathered on public land. We continue to see changes for the 2023 hunting seasons as state game agencies account for the toll last winter took on wildlife populations. Recently, both North Dakota and Montana just announced tag reductions. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation just detailed how over 10.7 million dollars will be spent in Wyoming on wildlife and habitat projects. The Wildlife Society bulletin recently published an article talking about how there is shifting attitudes within it's membership base, particularly with the role of hunting and trapping. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Comment on the Draft MT Elk Management Plan: https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/public-comment-opportunities/draft-elk-plan Handmade Leather Goods https://flowersandfringe.com/ This week we've got a little of news, but then we're diving into Montana's Elk Management plan and Randy tells us how to get involved and be a part of the process. The the last time the elk management plan was updated was 2005! So it might be awhile before we get to weigh in again. In Minnesota the Department of Natural Resources Commission recently finalized banning the use of lead ammo on 56 Science and Natural Areas as well as a few State Parks that offer special hunting opportunities. In Wyoming we have an update on the on-going corner crossing saga, with some new information potentially stopping the appeal. In Montana a grizzly bear was recently photographed in the Pryor mountains which is the first time one has been confirmed being there in well over 100 years. Also In Montana the Trust for Public land, MKH Montana and the Lolo National Forest worked together recently to permanently protect nearly 6000 acres of land in the northwest part of the state. This brings the total acreage close to 26,000 acres of land being added to the Lolo National forest in the last three years. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're diving deep into migration barriers, some new science coming out showing how to identify migration barriers and how removing old fence can make a big difference. But before we get into that we get a little update on some Montana fishing, everything from cutthroat to largemouth bass as well as a quick sheep scouting update. A rain derailed and collapsed a bridge into the Yellowstone River spilling an estimated 500,000 pounds of liquid asphalt into the water. In Montana recreation users will now be required to purchase a conservation license if they utilize a Fishing Access Site. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation wrote an interesting op-ed in which they talk about fixing the “Cottonwood Decision” In Nevada, 23,675 acres of BLM land has been leased out for a solar development for 105 million dollars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well ruining might be a little extreme... but there is no doubt that advancements in technology can increase hunter success and lead to less opportunity over time. This will be the topic for this week's deeper dive. A brief recap of some weekend fishing where Michael caught some big walleye and trout. Oregon House Bill 3086 has passed both the house and the senate and is currently waiting to be signed into law. The U.S. Fish Wildlife Service recently announced new hunting opportunities on three wildlife refuges while simultaneously announcing a lead tackle and ammunition ban on multiple refuges. The Wildlife Society examined two separate studies in New Mexico that are trying to determine what is causing low elk recruitment in the Southwest. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is proposing changes to non-resident waterfowl hunting regulations to improve the quality of hunting for Kansas residents. We then Dive deep into how changes in technology drive hunting regulation changes or affect the amount of opportunity hunters have in the field. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a quick recap of some weekend bighorn sheep scouting which is proving to be a fun but tough experience. A few news headlines including the Nevada's latest reports on the decline of mule deer and bighorn sheep. Chronic wasting disease has now been confirmed in a road killed deer in Florida adding to the list of states dealing with the spread of this terminal disease, but a new research project sheds some hopeful light on the future as they've realized certain genetic traits cause deer to be more susceptible than others. Montana Fish Wildlife and parks held their June commission meeting in which they announced hunting access being provided on over one million acres for the 2023 season. Some critics however have some reservations about what the public hunter has to give up in order to pay for this access. For the deeper dive we discuss the changing cultures within several state's fish and wildlife commissions, how some are starting to stray away from the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and questing whether or not hunters are still needed in some scenarios. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week for the deeper dive we talk a little bighorn sheep scouting, hear about Michael and Jace's recent bear hunt and Blake's progress on bird dog training. Michael also gives us the lowdown in the fishing corner recapping a little walleye outing along with improving trout conditions. For news we find that Oklahoma finally confirmed their wild deer to test positive for Chronic Wasting Disease. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's Commission has drafted a new policy that appears to be less friendly to hunters. More info on how to submit comments in Washington: https://www.howlforwildlife.org/wdfw-dcpcomment The Bureau of Land Management announced a 161 million dollar investment into the nations public lands that covers 11 western states and 21 different landscape level projects. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AnyFin Goes Paddlefish Episode:    • ANYFIN GOES! Mont...   This week we're talking about a few recent headlines concerning public land and public access. We give a quick update from a weekend of paddlefish fishing along with picking up a few catfish. For news we have updates on the Wyoming corner crossing case and how Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks reacted to the ruling of the case. An update on the Colorado court case concerning an angler suing a private landowner in hopes to improve public water access in the state and potential change stream access laws. Montana Wildlife Federation, Montana Wild and Montana Association of Counties are suing in an attempt to let lawmakers vote to override Governor Greg Gianforte's veto of SB 422. Waterfowl hunting has been suspended at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge due to staffing shortages. Ticks may be a disease vector for Chronic Wasting disease, a new research study finds. For the Deeper Dive we discuss the recent announcement of a potential change to Federal Land leasing that would put conservation organizations on a level playing field for bidding on leases such as oil, gas, wind, solar, and cattle grazing. We also touch on the new ruling where the EPA no longer has jurisdiction over certain waters. Join Fresh Tracks+ For Early Access - https://www.freshtracks.tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Randy Gives an update on what the crew has been up to. Michael has a fishing report from Fort Peck. Marcus is back from his bear hunt and Randy gives some news updates. This week for the deeper dive, the crew discusses the recent ruling in the Wyoming corner crossing case. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices