Sportsmen’s Alliance Files Motion to Halt CDC Dog Rule

Group Asks the Court to Immediately Allow Import of Puppies, Ignore Microchip Requirement

The Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation filed for a preliminary injunction in its lawsuit against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to immediately halt enforcement of a new rule restricting the importation of dogs into the United States. If granted, the preliminary injunction would allow Sportsmen’s Alliance members to import to the U.S. or reenter the country with puppies under six months of age. If awarded, the injunction would also void the requirement that dogs crossing the border be microchipped.

“Today, we’ve asked the court to recognize CDC’s egregious overstep and to immediately step in to offer relief for our members,” said Michael Jean, Litigation Counsel at the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation. “CDC has been reminded by the courts time and again of the restraints on its power, but the agency continues to over-regulate. A preliminary injunction will halt enforcement of this arbitrary rule until we can permanently enjoin CDC’s overreach.”

The rule, which went into effect on Aug. 1, includes new paperwork requirements and microchips for those who want to enter the U.S. with a dog and goes on to prohibit any dog under the age of six months from entering the country. CDC claims the new rule is aimed at preventing the reintroduction of dog rabies into the U.S., but the restrictions are arbitrarily broad and will cripple sporting breed imports and opportunities to travel to Canada to hunt with dogs.

“This rule is already affecting our members’ plans to sell and purchase hunting dogs, travel to hunt, and compete in trials on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border,” said Torin Miller, Associate Litigation Counsel at the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation. “Our members’ interests in these activities outweigh the virtually non-existent possibility of the reintroduction of dog rabies from Canada, and we’re confident the Court will agree.” Read more

2024 Waterfowl Population Survey Results

A 5% increase in population estimates shows resiliency of duck populations amid prolonged drought

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released its 2024 Waterfowl Population Status Report. This report contains results from surveys and population estimation methods conducted by the USFWS, Canadian Wildlife Service and numerous state and provincial partners.

The estimate for total breeding ducks in the traditional survey area was 34 million, a 5% increase from the 2023 estimate of 32.3 million, and 4% below the long-term average (since 1955). Mallards were estimated at 6.6 million, 8% above 2023, but 16% below the long-term average and among the lowest since the early 1990s.

Notably, the results mark the first increase in total surveyed breeding ducks since 2015.

“This year’s report suggests that some duck populations had better production last year than expected, with good carryover to spring of this year,” said Dr. Steve Adair, Ducks Unlimited chief scientist. “While estimates were down in the prairies, population levels were up in northern breeding regions. Read more

Dove Hunting Tips by Buck Knives

GW: “The estimated US mourning dove population is around 350 million.” And, not a one is legal in Michigan.

Buck Knives, Inc., a widely-recognized global leader in the hunting, outdoor, and everyday carry (EDC) knife markets, joins many outdoorsmen and women in hearlding the opening of hunting seasons. For many hunters, the first day of the fall hunting season begins during Labor Day weekend with the opening of dove seasons. Need a reason to gear up, buy a license, and go hunting? The estimated US mourning dove population is around 350 million.

Buck Knives offers these tips for everyone planning and going on a dove hunting trip:

*Check all hunting equipment and pre-test any new equipment purchased. From seats to coolers to shotguns, check that all gear is in good working order. If you can’t find your hunting knife, consider some of these top knives from the Buck Knives’ factory: the 102 Buck Woodsman Knife; the 112 Ranger Sport Knife or the iconic 110 Folding Hunter Knife. All of these knives have, or are offered with, clip-point blades that can aid with precision dressing of bagged doves headed for the cookout or freezer. The fine point of the clip-style blade greatly aids with precsion cutting and each of these knives will be easy to handle and easy to clean after the cutting chores are complete. Find the best knife for dove hunting at www.buckknives.com.

*Scout and select an active hunting location. Doves are migratory birds that like to eat in open fields and drink from water sources like ponds. Use binoculars and scout for doves on the bare branches in dead trees, on the ground or around cut grain fields, along fence rows and near old gravel pits. Once you find a large number of doves, watch to see where the birds go–and where they are coming from. Top hunting locations are often sites where hunters can conceal in tall grasses and brush as doves travel to and from food and water.

*Pack the extras. When heading for a dove hunt, remember to pack snacks and water along with a seat and shotshells. Many hunters quit hunting because they become tired and thirsty. Snacks and water are very important if you will be bringing a young hunter along on her or his first dove hunt. Oh, in case you were wondering, the average hunter shoots more than 3 boxes–75 shotshells– to bag a limit of 15 birds. Using an improved or modified choke in the shotgun can also aid with connecting on more passing doves. Many hunters select shotshells with sizes #7.5, #8 and #9 shot for the hunt.

*Use a dog. The number one reason hunters cannot find a dove is because they have missed marking or noting the location where a dove went down after the shot. Wounded doves will also hide under grasses and weeds, so having a hunting dog along on the hunt can improve the recovery rates. Select a location where you and your canine hunting companion can be easily concealed from passing doves. Remember to bring water for the dog also.

Dove hunting provides quality recreation and time outdoors with family and freinds–plus a tasty meal for those who find success. Need a knife for the hunt? Buck Knives offers more than 200 knife models and all are covered under the company’s industry-leading Forever Warranty. Additional details on the warranty and the many knives can be found at www.buckknives.com. Follow firearms safety rules and enjoy the great outdoors!

ABOUT BUCK KNIVES: For nearly 125 years, Buck Knives has been handcrafting the finest quality knives and tools using the highest-quality materials and state-of-the-art processes, like the exclusive Bos heat treatment for blades. With more than 200 knife models available, Buck Knives are built to perform at the highest level and last for generations. Located in Post Falls, Idaho, and employing more than 350 people, Buck Knives is proud to make knives in America and stand behind those with the company’s exclusive Forever Warranty. Visit www.buckknives.com or call 800-735-2825 for additional details.

BaseMap Announces Launch of the Ultimate HuntPlanner

Solution Powered by HuntScore will Revolutionize Hunting Experiences

BaseMap, the technology leader in GPS hunting maps, outdoor planning, and navigation, announced the launch of its cutting-edge HuntPlanner powered by HuntScore. Designed to empower hunters with advanced tools and features, the HuntPlanner sets a new standard in hunt planning, allowing hunters to enhance their efficiency and success in the field.

Revolutionizing Hunt Planning

BaseMap’s HuntPlanner is changing the game for hunters, offering a suite of innovative features that cater specifically to the needs of modern hunters. With an emphasis on ease of use, advanced mapping technology, and personalized hunting tools, BaseMap is the go-to app for hunting planning and execution.

Key Benefits of the Full Featured HuntPlanner: Read more

Enter to Win Axis Deer Hunt in Hawaii

Help fund wildlife conservation the fun way, with your chance to win-back!

This sweepstakes includes a spot for the winner and one non-hunter to join for two Axis deer in beautiful Lanai, Hawaii. Complete with a $2,000 travel credit! Enter at https://bit.ly/winaxishunt.

The 90,000-acre Hawaiian Island of Lanai is undoubtedly one of the most unique hunting destinations and is home to one of the highest densities of free-range Axis Deer in the world.

“The best deer hunt in the world!” – Jim Shockey Read more

World Champion Squirrel Cook Off Coming Sept. 7

Break out the shotgun and gather some ingredients now for the nuttiest cooking competition Arkansas has to offer. The World Champion Squirrel Cook Off will take over the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center in Springdale beginning at 9 a.m. Sept. 7.

The family-friendly free event returned last fall after a three-year hiatus. After COVID cancellations and some logistical issues, the granddaddy of limb chicken cuisine settled into its new home at the nature center as easily as falling off a log.

Joe Wilson, event planner, cooking contest veteran and connoisseur of all things squirrely, has been busy since before the last dish was served last year to make this year’s event even more memorable.

“We’re always up to try something new and keep things fresh,” Wilson said. “We’re not sure exactly how everything will turn out, but we know it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Up to 40 three-person cooking teams will fire up grills, smokers and other cooking implements beginning at 9 a.m. and will present their dishes to a panel of judges beginning at noon. According to Wilson, there’s still time to gather up a few buddies and harvest some tree-range protein to join in the cooking fun. Complete rules and instructions to nab one of the few remaining cooking team spots are available at www.facebook.com/squirrelcookoff. Read more

Michigan Fall Turkey Drawing Results Available Now

It’s almost turkey time! Check your fall turkey drawing results online at eLicense or in the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app or call 517-284-9453 to see if you were successful.

Leftover turkey licenses will go on sale to those who applied but were unsuccessful in the drawing on Monday, Aug. 19, at 10 a.m. All remaining leftover licenses will go on sale Aug. 26 at 10 a.m. There is no guarantee that leftover licenses will be available for any hunt unit. License are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Read more

The Gladiator from Rutted-Up Blinds Is Built for Hunting All Season Long

Cantril, IA – The Gladiator from Rutted-Up Blinds is equipped with industry-leading technology to help hunters fill their tags.

Featuring a 7-foot by 7-foot footprint, the Gladiator is built for comfortably hunting all season long in any conditions. The blind’s 11 windows can lock out in any position and are fully smoked while still providing a clear view for firing or filming, even in low-light conditions.

Engineered to withstand heavy loads of snow and last a lifetime, the airtight Gladiator’s roof measures 2-3 inches thick with rigid insulating foam, while the floor measures 4 inches thick with crossmember plywood and half-inch plywood above and below the rigid insulating foam. Fork pockets, which attach to the floor of every blind, are integrated into the base for safe and easy setup. The Gladiator’s steel exterior is finished in Mossy Oak Bottomland with 20-year fade resistance.

The fully insulated interior walls are 1.5” thick comprised of an outer steel layer, rigid insulating foam, and plywood finished off with premium automotive grade sound deadening carpet. The blind’s ceiling features inch-thick sound-absorbing foam, and shelves are constructed of formed steel, powder-coated, and finished with a layer of foam. Read more

Win a Fully Guided Hunt Plus 3 Tags

Act Now: Raffle Closes Aug. 14

Remember to buy your tickets for a raffle package that includes seven days of guided hunt services with Dieringer Outfitters (including meals and lodging) plus three hunt permit-tags — one each for black bear, mountain lion and javelina.

Raffle tickets are $15 each. There is no limit to the number of tickets you can purchase.

Buy your tickets today!

Details:

  • The deadline to purchase tickets is 9 p.m. on Aug. 14.
  • The winner can hunt all three species for 365 days (Aug. 15, 2024, to Aug. 14, 2025).
  • Raffle tickets must be purchased online, and the buyer must be in Arizona at the time of purchase.

Every dollar raised through the raffle is returned to the Arizona Game and Fish Department and managed by the Arizona Habitat Partnership Committee. With input from local habitat partners across the state and sponsoring organizations involved in the fundraising, project priorities are determined that provide the most benefit to each species.

In the 18-year history of the Arizona Big Game Super Raffle, more than $11 million have been raised for wildlife and wildlife management in Arizona.

Sportsmen’s Alliance Sues CDC on Dog-Import Rule

New CDC Rule Will Dismantle Sporting Dog Breeders Throughout Canada and Europe

The Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation filed suit in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to rescind a new rule restricting the importation of dogs into the United States. Although the agency’s stated reason for the action is to prevent the spread of rabies, the new rule applies to dogs coming from any country – including Canada, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy and many others which the CDC itself classifies as “low risk” or “free” of dog rabies.

“We aren’t going to stand by while CDC cancels sporting dog breeders and hunting or trialing across the border without a fight,” said Dr. Todd Adkins, Vice President of Government Affairs at the Sportsmen’s Alliance. “CDC has one speed, and that’s to over-regulate to the point of ruin, so let’s see what a federal judge has to say about this agency running roughshod over the American people once again.”

The CDC rule includes new paperwork requirements and microchips for those who want to enter the United States with a dog and goes on to prohibit any dog under the age of six months from entering the U.S. at all. Health certificates or vaccination records for puppies are irrelevant – puppies are totally banned under the rule.

The new requirements and puppy ban include U.S. citizens who are attempting to re-enter the country after visiting Canada with their dog for hunting, trialing or for any other purpose. There are no exceptions for personally owned dogs. The puppy prohibition also has no exceptions, and this ban will completely crater a thriving community of long-established Canadian sporting dog breeders who send puppies to customers throughout the United States. Similar breeding programs for sporting breeds like Drahthaar (Germany) and Bracco Italiano (Italy) also stand to be decimated.

“CDC either doesn’t know or doesn’t care how destructive this rule is for our members who hunt or trial across the border or get puppies from Canadian or European breeders,” said Michael Jean, Litigation Counsel at the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation. “Regardless of whether this was done out of ignorance or maliciousness, we are going to protect our community.” Read more

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