Spring Trout Season Opener Postponed Indefinitely in DuPage Forest Preserves

Photo Courtesy: DuPage Forest News

Three lakes will remain closed to fishing

DU PAGE FOREST NEWS Press Release

(March 27, 2020) — The spring rainbow trout season opener, originally scheduled for April 4, has been postponed indefinitely at three DuPage Forest Preserve District lakes in keeping with the governor’s stay-at-home order to prevent gatherings and the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Illinois 101st General Assembly - New Hunting and Fishing Legislation Filed

February 14th was the deadline for the General Assembly to file bills for the second year of the 101st G.A.  Both the House and Senate filed many outdoor related bills and we will highlight those below.

Be sure and "Like" our Facebook page where we post updates on bills as they move through the committee process and eventually for a full vote on either the House or Senate floor.

Want to voice your concern regarding a certain bill?  You can either reach out to the bill sponsor with specific questions or file a witness slip to document your position.  We outlined how you would go about filing a witness slip here.

Capitol Outdoors will dive deeper into each bill as they continue in the process.


The following are bills that were filed this year.  If you would like to read the full text of the bill, click the link. 

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HB 4112 - WILDLIFE-LAND PERMIT-RESIDENCY

House Sponsors
Rep. Charles Meier

Allows a landowner deer, turkey, and combination permit to be issued without charge to Illinois landowners (removes residing in the State) who own at least 40 acres of Illinois land and wish to hunt upon their land only.

HB 4254 - WILDLIFE CD-DISABLED VET EXEMPT

House Sponsors
Rep. Nathan D. Reitz

Provides that a veteran who is at least 10% disabled with service-related disabilities or who is in receipt of a total disability pension is not required to procure a trapping license in order to trap any of the permitted species identified in the Code during such times and with such devices and by such methods as permitted by the Code.

HB 4308 - WILDLIFE CD-TRAPPING LICENSE EXEMPT

House Sponsors
Rep. Nathan D. Reitz

Provides that a veteran who is certified by the Department of Veterans' Affairs to be at least 10% disabled with service related disabilities or who is in receipt of total disability pension may trap, as permitted by the Code, without procuring a trapping license. Provides further that a military member returning from mobilization and service outside the United States who is an Illinois resident may trap, as permitted by the Code, without paying any fees required to obtain a trapping license, if he or she applies for the license within 2 years after returning from service abroad or after mobilization. Adds trapping licenses to the terminally ill hunter licensing program. Provides that persons on active duty in the Armed Forces or Illinois residents with a Type 1 or Type 4, Class 2 disability as defined in the Illinois Identification Card Act may trap, as permitted by the Code, without procuring a trapping license. Adds definitions.

HB 4317 - FISH-FISHING LICENSE EXEMPTION FOR YOUTH
House Sponsors
Rep. Tony McCombie

Provides that individuals under the age of 18 (instead of 16) may fish with sport fishing devices without being required to have a license.

HB 4863 - YOUTH HUNTING TURKEY STATEWIDE PERMIT PILOT

House Sponsors
Rep. Tony McCombie

Provides that the Department of Natural Resources shall create a pilot program during the annual 2-weekend, youth-only spring wild turkey hunting season to allow for youth wild turkey hunting permits that are valid statewide, excluding those counties or portions of counties closed to firearm turkey hunting. Provides that the Department shall adopt rules to implement the pilot program. Provides that nothing shall be construed to prohibit the Department from issuing Special Hunt Area Permits for the youth-only wild turkey hunting season or establishing, through administrative rule, additional requirements pertaining to the youth-only wild turkey hunting season on Department-owned or Department-managed sites, including site-specific quotas or drawings.

HB 4994 - WILDLIFE-AIRBOW DEER HUNTING

House Sponsors
Rep. Charles Meier

Permits the use of an airbow in hunting deer. Defines "airbow". Makes conforming changes.

"Airbow" means a bow and arrow device that applies 150 pounds of force in the form of compressed air to an arrow over a 25 inch power stroke.

HB 4996 - WILDLIFE CD-WILD SWINE

House Sponsors
Rep. Charles Meier

Includes wild swine as a protected species covered by the Code. Sets forth definitions of "wild swine" for purposes of the Code. Provides that wild swine may be taken by hunting methods at any time. Provides further that wild swine may be taken during the open season by use of a small light that is worn on the body or hand-held by a person not in any vehicle.

HB 5060 - WILDLIFE/4-POINT ANTLER RULE

House Sponsors
Rep. Brad Halbrook

Provides that it is unlawful for a person to take deer except antlerless deer and antlered deer with at least one antler having at least 4 antler points. Provides that the antler point restriction applies to all deer hunting zones, seasons, and permittees, except during the special 3-day, youth-only deer hunting season. Requires the Department of Natural Resources to adopt rules to implement and administer the antler point restriction.

"Antler point" means an antler point or tine that is at least one inch long from base to tip,  including a broken point or tine that is at least one inch long. "Antler point" includes the end of the main beam of an antler.


HB 5088 -FISH-AQUATIC STAMPS & LICENSE

House Sponsors
Rep. Robert Rita

Allows the holder of a scientific collector's permit to fish with sport fishing devices without a license. Requires any individual who is required to obtain a license to also obtain an aquatic conservation stamp prior to taking or attempting to take any fish, including minnows for commercial purposes, turtles, mussels, crayfish, or frogs from waters of this State. Provides that the fee for the aquatic conservation stamp is $5 for both resident and non-resident licensees; waives the fee for residents over 75 years of age. Makes other conforming changes. Requires that fees derived solely from the sale of aquatic conservation stamps, gifts, donations, grants, and bequests of money for the conservation of aquatic life shall be deposited to the State Treasury and set apart in a special fund known as the Aquatic Conservation Stamp Fund. Sets forth further requirements regarding appropriations from Aquatic Conservation Stamp Fund.


HB 5179 - DNR-STATE PARKS-APPRENTICESHIP

House Sponsors
Rep. Lance Yednock

Provides that the Department has the power to enter into contracts with union apprentice trade programs across the State for the purpose of providing maintenance and repairs to State parks. Allows each Regional Office of the Department to contract with such programs in its respective region. Provides that funds from the Park and Conservation Fund may be used by the Department to enter into contracts with union apprentice trade programs.

HB 5192 - FISH-AGE REQ-FISHING LICENSE

House Sponsors
Rep. Nathan D. Reitz

Provides that any individual, resident or non-resident, who is 18 years of age (rather than 16 years of age) or older shall, before taking or attempting to take any aquatic life protected by the Code by any means whatever in the State of Illinois, obtain a license to do so. Provides that before taking or attempting to take salmon from Lake Michigan, a resident or non-resident who is 18 years of age (rather than 16 years of age) or older shall obtain a salmon stamp authorized by the Department of Natural Resources; before taking or attempting to take trout from all waters except Lake Michigan, a resident or non-resident who is 18 years of age (rather than 16 years of age) or older shall obtain an inland trout stamp authorized by the Department. Requires an individual under 18 years of age (rather than 16 years of age) who possesses a lifetime hunting or sportsmen's combination license to have in his or her possession, while in the field, a certificate of competency as required under the Wildlife Code.

HB 5253 - FOREST/CONSERVE-DESIGN-BUILD

House Sponsors
Rep. Frances Ann Hurley

Provides that a forest preserve district or conservation district may enter into design-build contracts. Includes scope and performance criteria for design-build contracts, a two-phase procedure for selection of contracts, requirements for submission of proposals, procedures for awarding contracts, and requirements of reports and evaluation of contracts. Provides that if the total overall cost of a project is estimated to be less than $12,000,000, the forest preserve or conservation district may combine the two-phase procedure for selection into one phase. Amends the Conservation District Act, Downstate Forest Preserve District Act, and Cook County Forest Preserve District Act making conforming changes. Further amends those Acts increasing the minimum contract amount to $50,000 (currently $25,000) before competitive bidding is required.

HB 5306 - VEH CD-PERMANENT TRAILER PLATE

House Sponsors
Rep. Terri Bryant

Provides that beginning with the 2022 registration year, the Secretary of State, at the option of the applicant, shall issue permanent registration plates for a one-time fee of $118 to the owner of a trailer having a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or less. Provides that a person who has been issued a permanent trailer plate is not required to pay the annual flat weight tax and registration fee. Lowers the annual flat weight tax and registration fee for trailers with a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or less from $118 to $18.

If you recall, as part of the Capital Bill last year, the trailer registration fees increased from $18 to $118.  This bill along with others is trying to remedy that.

HB 5447 - BOAT SAFETY- Act Clean-Up Language

House Sponsors
Rep. Nicholas K. Smith

Amends the Boat Registration and Safety Act. Changes the definitions Section to put the terms in alphabetical order and changes the definitions of "motorboat" and "operate". Defines "international regulations" and "wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device". Makes additional changes and adds provisions in Sections concerning: personal flotation devices; navigation lights; interference with navigation; and traffic rules.


HB 5469 -  DNR-OUTDOOR GRANTS PROGRAM
House Sponsors
Rep. Sonya M. Harper

Provides that the Department shall establish the Outdoor Equity Grants Program, subject to adequate appropriation or private funding, to increase the ability of underserved and at-risk populations to participate in outdoor environmental educational experiences at State parks and other public lands where outdoor environmental education programs take place. Contains provisions relating to the organization of the grant program, priority of specified populations, funding of the grant program, and annual reporting. Provides that the Department shall adopt rules to implement the provisions. Amends the State Finance Act by adding the Outdoor Equity Grants Program Fund.


HB 5542 - STATEWIDE YOUTH DEER - DISABLED HUNT

House Sponsors
Rep. Norine K. Hammond

Provides that during the pilot program that creates the special 3-day, youth-only firearm deer hunting season, one day of the 3 days shall be reserved for children with disabilities. Provides that the one day youth-only firearm deer hunting season reserved for children with disabilities shall apply to all counties located in the State. Provides that all provisions of the pilot program are inoperative on and after January 1, 2023. Effective June 1, 2020.

HB 5543 -COMMERCIAL FISHING DEVICES

House Sponsors
Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer

Allows commercial fishermen to obstruct more than one-half the width of any stream or watercourse under specified circumstances. Specifies requirements for commercial fishermen who are unable to be in immediate supervision of his or her gill and trammel nets. Defines "trammel net" and "gill net". Makes conforming changes

HB 5544 - ANIMALS-DOGS-TRESPASS ON LAND

House Sponsors
Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer

Removes the provision of the Code that prohibits a person from intentionally or wantonly allowing a dog to hunt (i) on the land of another, or (ii) on the waters that flow over or stand on the land of another, without first obtaining permission from the owner or the owner's designee. Effective immediately.


SB 2550 -TRAPPING LICENSE EXEMPTION

Senate Sponsors
Sen. David Koehler

Provides that a veteran who is certified by the Department of Veterans' Affairs to be at least 10% disabled with service related disabilities or who is in receipt of total disability pension may trap, as permitted by the Code, without procuring a trapping license. Provides further that a military member returning from mobilization and service outside the United States who is an Illinois resident may trap, as permitted by the Code, without paying any fees required to obtain a trapping license, if he or she applies for the license within 2 years after returning from service abroad or after mobilization. Adds trapping licenses to the terminally ill hunter licensing program. Provides that persons on active duty in the Armed Forces or Illinois residents with a Type 1 or Type 4, Class 2 disability as defined in the Illinois Identification Card Act may trap, as permitted by the Code, without procuring a trapping license.

SB 3230 - WILDLIFE-HABITAT STAMP-EXEMPTION

Senate Sponsors
Sen. Dale Fowler

Provides that owners of land and their children, parents, brothers, and sisters shall have the right to hunt upon their lands without procuring a State Habitat Stamp, but the hunting shall be done only during periods of time and with devices and by methods as are permitted by the Code.

SB 3232 - WILDLIFE-OUTFITTER PERMITS

Senate Sponsors
Sen. Thomas Cullerton

Provides that the Department of Natural Resources shall, by rule, provide for a number of Wild Turkey Hunting Permits to be set aside specifically for wild turkey outfitters operating in this State with a valid outfitter permit. Authorizes wild turkey outfitters to provide these permits to customers in the course of providing outfitting services. Provides that nothing shall prohibit a wild turkey outfitter from scheduling hunts with persons holding permits not otherwise provided by the outfitter.

SB 3235 - WILDLIFE-FISH LICENSES-MILITARY EXEMPTION

Senate Sponsors
Sen. Rachelle Crowe

Provides that an Illinois resident who is on active military duty and is stationed in Illinois may fish as permitted by the Fish and Aquatic Life Code without paying any fees required to obtain a fishing license. Provides that an Illinois resident who is on active military duty and is stationed in Illinois may hunt as permitted by the Wildlife Code without paying any fees required to obtain a hunting license.

SB 3393  - FISH-LICENSE FEES FOR VETERANS

Senate Sponsors
Sen. Patrick Joyce

Provides that, beginning with the 2021 license year, resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have returned from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States shall be issued a fishing license, or a sportsmen's combination license, free of charge. Requires veterans to provide verification of their service to the Department of Natural Resources. Provides that the Department shall establish what constitutes suitable verification of service for the purpose of issuing a fishing license or a sportsmen's combination license free of charge to resident veterans.


The following are bills that were filed last year that can still move through the process:

HB 1598 -  5 YR HUNTING & FISHING LICENSE

House Sponsors
Rep. Monica Bristow

Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year fishing license. Provides that the fee for a 5-year fishing license is $62.50. Provides that for residents age 65 or older, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year fishing license. Provides that for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year fishing license. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year sportsmen's combination license that shall entitle the holder to the same non-commercial fishing privileges as residents holding a license and to the same hunting privileges as residents holding a license to hunt all species under the Wildlife Code. Provides that the 5-year sportsmen's combination license fee shall be $112.50. Provides that a sportsmen's combination license shall not be issued to any individual who would be ineligible for either the fishing or hunting license separately. Provides that for residents age 65 or older, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year sportsmen's combination license. Provides that for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year sportsmen's combination license. Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year hunting license to hunt all species for $52. Provides that for residents age 65 or older and resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year hunting license.


HB 2036 -  HUNTING & FISHING LICENSE FEES Exemption Veterans

House Sponsors
Rep. John M. Cabello

Provides that the fee for all sport fishing licenses shall be waived for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have been honorably discharged. Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that the fee for a hunting license to hunt all species shall be waived for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have been honorably discharged. Makes technical changes.


HB 2778 - WILDLIFE CD-HUNTING OPENING

House Sponsors
Rep. Andrew S. Chesney

Provides that notwithstanding any provision of the Code, each opening weekend for every hunting season established by the Department of Natural Resources shall be at least 4 days long.

HB 2783 -  WILDLIFE CD-RIFLE HUNTING

House Sponsors
Rep. Andrew S. Chesney

As introduced:
Permits hunting with a rifle for the taking of deer. Provides that rifle hunting permits issued by the Department of Natural Resources shall be approved by county ordinance. Provides that notwithstanding any provision of the Code, it is unlawful to take a deer with a rifle in a county of the State with a population of 500,000 or more. Defines "rifle" as any firearm designed, made, or adapted to be fired from the shoulder that uses the energy of an explosive in a fixed metallic cartridge to fire a projectile through a rifled bore by a single function of the trigger.

House Floor Amendment No. 2

Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with changes. Provides that legal handguns and rifles include any bottleneck centerfire cartridge of .30 caliber or larger with a case length not exceeding 1.4 inches or any straight walled centerfire cartridge of .30 caliber or larger both of which must be available as a load with the published ballistic tables of the manufacturer showing a capability of at least 500 foot pounds of energy at the muzzle. Deletes language that provides that notwithstanding any provision of the Code, it is unlawful to take a deer with a rifle in a county of the State with a population of 500,000 or more.


HB 3453 - DEER HUNTING-AIR GUNS

House Sponsors
Rep. Lance Yednock

Provides that a person may take deer with a .45 caliber or larger air-powered gun. Defines "air-powered gun" as any implement designed as a gun that will expel a BB or pellet by spring, gas, or air charged from an external high compression power source.



COMING UP NEXT WEEK: 

House Agriculture Committee Hearing
Feb. 18th - 2PM 

SB 780 - MIGRATORY WATERFOWL 

Provides that it shall be lawful for any person who holds the licenses, permits, and stamps required for the taking of migratory waterfowl to use steel and other non-toxic shotshells as approved by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service when taking waterfowl at any location in the State where the hunting of migratory waterfowl is authorized. Provides that it is unlawful to use any shotgun larger than 10 gauge or smaller than a .410 bore to take species protected by this Act; however, nothing shall prohibit the use of a shotgun, not larger than 10 gauge nor smaller than a 20 gauge, with a rifled barrel. Provides that it shall be unlawful to use lead shotshells to take wildlife on Department of Natural Resources properties on or after January 1, 2022.

The DNR already has administrative rules that ban specific ammunition on DNR sites.  This legislation will codified it into statute. 

Governor's Budget Address
Feb. 18th - NOON 

STAY INFORMED! BE EDUCATED! 

 

Governor Pritzker appoints Anthony D. Tindall to the Natural Resources Advisory Board

Governor Pritzker has appointed Anthony D. Tindall from Chicago to replace Matthew Langendorf on the NRAB Board.

Anthony D. Tindall is currently the Policy and Special Projects Manager at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County where he "manages the policy, sustainability, and climate resiliency agenda and activities for the 70,000-acre public land management agency. Staff Coordinator of the Next Century Conservation Plan's Leadership and Economic Committees. Manages various other institutional projects for the Office of the General Superintendent."

He received a Master's Degree in Public Administration from DePaul University and is currently a member of the National Advisory Board for the Union of Concerned Scientists. Information provided from linkedin.com

Illinois Conservation Foundation Accepting Applications for 2020 Conservation Achievement Scholarships

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Applications are now being accepted by the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) for the 2020 Conservation Achievement Scholarship program. The ICF annually awards scholarships to outstanding high school seniors in Illinois who demonstrate effective, voluntary, long-term dedication to the preservation, protection or enhancement of the state’s natural resources.

Conservation Leaders Diane and Doug Oberhelman to be Inducted into Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) Board of Directors today announced the selection of Diane and Doug Oberhelman of Edwards for induction into the Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame for their exemplary service in and commitments to improving conservation efforts and outdoor recreation opportunities in Illinois.

Image Copied from Illinois Conservation Foundation 

The formal induction of Diane and Doug Oberhelman will occur during a ceremony at the annual Illinois Conservation Foundation Gala April 30, 2020, at the Union League Club in Chicago.

Deer and Beer Fest Rivals Fish and Feather Expo

This past weekend organizers opened the doors to the first annual Deer and Beer Fest held at the Interstate Center/ McLean County Fairgrounds.  "We planned this show in Bloomington for the same reason the Deer and Turkey Classic existed here successfully for so long. It’s roughly within an hour drive or less to Peoria, Springfield and Champaign." said Cole Thompson, event organizer.  While I know many people from these cities attended this fest, I also got word from our Chicago area readers that they took the trip down to enjoy a beautiful weekend talking hunting, fishing and the great outdoors as well.

Pumped and ready to start the show!

I've been to several great hunting and fishing shows across the country and in my opinion the Deer and Beer Fest competed with some of the best outdoor shows in Illinois.  Granted it's no SHOT SHOW or ICAST but, the atmosphere and energy was the same.  Not only from attendees but from the vendors themselves looked pumped and ready to go. There is already talk about expanding next year's show to include vendors outside throughout the other parts of the fairground.  "The McLean County Fairgrounds has over 100 acres of outdoor space with 50,000 sq ft indoors, and a 20,000sq ft pavilion area. There’s all kinds of opportunity for growth at this facility" said Thompson.

While many of us are used to our hunting and fishing shows in the winter, August is the month of cabin fever for hunters and that's why it was a great month for the show.   "Hunting season is right around the corner. Hunters are gearing up and ready to spend some cash on what they need or don’t need" said Thompson.  Although shows during the summer may not grow in the hunting community, maybe fishing shows will try this and see how it works on their end.

Attendees had the opportunity to win lots of goodies

As I walked in, it looked like any other show, however like the Energizer Bunny, rows kept going and going.  These rows were filled with quality products along with non-profits and businesses promoting their ideas and chasing the American dream.  Although many attendees came for the great deals on their hunting products, others came for the Big Buck Contest and Trophies of Grace did not disappoint. Luke Brewster's World Record Buck, harvested in Illinois, was also in attendance. Let me just say..WOW.   Nope- not putting a picture up of that monster, because like a sunset or sunrise, it's better in person, trust me!

Just some of the amazing deer on show from Trophies of Grace

If you missed this year don't worry! They'll be back and I'm excited as can be to see how this show grows.  However, I'm a little disappointed in one thing, no gutter guard companies at the show.  I mean, what's an outdoor show without them there?  Just in case some of you can't tell, that's sarcasm.  In all seriousness, this show met and exceeded my expectations and you should plan to take the whole family next year.

I applaud all the workers and vendors for making this an amazing show.   Makes sure to check them out the Deer and Beer Fest on Facebook.  SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!

IDNR Advisory Board Violates Open Meetings Act

NRAB Board Meeting

Today political parties differ on nearly every issue, but there is one thing that is more American than anything. It is the idea that citizens can get involved in their government. And while these political differences have divided our country, we have to remember to hold our representatives and those that work on behalf of the people accountable for their actions or lack of, regardless of political party.

As many of you know, I have been involved with the IDNR since Director Miller under Governor Quinn and after attending these meetings over several years I have seen a lack of transparency and violations of the Open Meetings Act. This has been an ongoing issue with this board. According to the minutes from January 2018, George Sisk, Legal Counsel for DNR stated when discussing another possible Open Meetings Act violtion that, “The Open Meeting Act’s main purpose is to provide transparency when it comes to governmental operations and we must error on the side of caution when it comes to complying with OMA.”

I am by no means, a lawyer, a scholar, or a politician, I am a citizen of Illinois, a hunter, angler and outdoor enthusiasts. I started Capitol Outdoors to make sure that people like you had the insight and transparency of their government.

I am here to hold this board accountable for what I believe is a continued violation of the Open Meetings Act.

According to Section 2.02 (a) of the Open Meetings Act:

An agenda for each regular meeting shall be posted at the principal office of the public body and at the location where the meeting is to be held at least 48 hours in advance of the holding of the meeting. A public body that has a website that the full-time staff of the public body maintains shall also post on its website the agenda of any regular meetings of the governing body of that public body.

As of 7:47 am this morning the NRAB website was not updated with today’s agenda. I believe this is a clear violation of the Open Meetings Act. This is not the first time that this has happened and as a member of the public how am I supposed to prepare to educate my audience of issues pertaining to this quarter’s meeting when I have no idea what is on the agenda. And in all the meetings I have attended, I have never once received a printed copy of the agenda so this time wouldn’t be any different.

Another issue related to the Open Meetings act are the minutes.

The only record that the general public has been able to see related to the activity of this advisory board over the last year has been the recordings and accounts by Capitol Outdoors. As you can see from the image above, the last minutes posted were from July 30, 2018.

According to Section 2.06 (b) of the Open Meetings Act:

The minutes of meetings open to the public shall be available for public inspection within 10 days after the approval of such minutes by the public body. Beginning July 1, 2006, at the time it complies with the other requirements of this subsection, a public body that has a website that the full-time staff of the public body maintains shall post the minutes of a regular meeting of its governing body open to the public on the public body's website within 10 days after the approval of the minutes by the public body.

I advise this board to get their head out of the gutter, and start holding themselves accountable.  We must ask the question, is the IDNR and this board Communicating, Collaborating and Connecting with the public or is it business as usual?

Tune in to today’s NRAB meeting via our FB page unfortunately we don't know what will be discussed due to lack of agenda.

If you are unfamiliar with NRAB you can read a previous article of ours explaining the purpose of the board.

Illinois Statewide Park Entrance Fees On The Horizon

This morning the Senate Environment Committee had a hearing on SB 1310. Senator Rezin introduced this piece of legislation to begin implementing a parking fee for Starved Rock State Park. This state park is ranked 11th in the nation and the local area has seen an increase in the number of visitors. LaSalle County residents are struggling with the over 3 million visitors they see each year and the state park maintenance is deteriorating.

Photo Credit EnjoyIllinois.com

Four New Locations Added to Spring Trout Release

Here at Capitol Outdoors, we always look forward to the Fall and Spring trout release.  It's a great way to get those who've never fished before or to get kids outside.  This is a great way to teach the basics and the action can be fast and furious. There are lots of ways to catch these slippy fish.  Casting a spoon, power bait, minnow, and even corn.  However if you're looking to increase your odds, read our prior articles.  "Capitol Outdoors' Tips and Tricks for Inland Trout Fishing" Looks like there will be four new fishing locations added to this year's season.  Baumann Lake in Cherry Valley, Weldon Springs Lake in DeWitt County, Casey Park Pond in Casey, and Belk Lake in Wood River.  Below you'll see a list of locations for this tradition.  

Check out Autumn catch a golden trout at Jim Edgar Panther Creek.  Also you can watch one of our first video we ever did.  Go ahead and laugh we sure did!   GOOD LUCK!

2019 Illinois Spring Trout Fishing Season Opens April 6

Press Release - Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Illinois DNR Newsbits - and First Message for Acting Director Callahan

Inside the IDNR March 2019

Governor JB Pritzker on February 19 appointed Colleen Callahan to serve as Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Prior to the appointment, Colleen managed her own communications consulting firm after serving for more than seven years as state director for USDA Rural Development in Illinois. During her tenure at USDA, she and her staff worked with local communities and businesses to generate a $1 billion increase in the Illinois rural development loan portfolio. Colleen also worked for 30 years in radio and television, serving as the agribusiness director for WMBD in Peoria. She was the first female president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting. Colleen grew up on a cattle and grain farm near Milford in Iroquois County. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural communications from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign. 

Information in this post was provided by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources

FIRST CHICAGOLAND NATIONAL PHEASANT FEST & QUAIL CLASSIC DRAWS 22,387

Press Release from Pheasants & Quail Forever

Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever’s National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic presented by Federal Premium Ammunition drew 22,387 weekend attendees to the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center, the event’s inaugural run in Chicagoland. At the nation’s biggest gathering of upland wildlife conservationists, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced his department’s intention to hold upcoming signups for the federal Conservation Reserve Program, the country’s signature pheasant and quail habitat creator.

Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever’s National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic 2019 (photo courtesy: Capitol Outdoors)

Governor Pritzker's Proposed Budget for Department of Natural Resources

Today Governor Pritzker released his FY20 proposed operating budget for the DNR. You can find it on page 256 of the Proposed Operating Budget. An operating budget is where 'appropriations are for consumable goods and services such as salaries and benefits, commodities, utilities, and professional services that are purchased and used during any one fiscal year.

The Governor’s recommended FY20 budget supports a Conservation Police Officer trainee class of 20 to help with the reduction due to retirement.

The proposed budget fully funds historic sites and preservation operations at last year's levels and maintains operations of all state parks and campgrounds.

Governor Pritzker appoints Colleen Callahan as the New Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Since the day after the election we have been asked, 'Do you know who the next director is going to be?'  While there were rumors and we had our own speculation, the time has come, we can finally answer the question we've all been wondering.

Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Colleen Callahan as the new Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  "Callahan currently manages her own communications consulting firm after spending over seven years as state director for USDA Rural Development in Illinois. During her tenure, she oversaw a 20% reduction in staffing while still being able to generate a $1 billion increase in the Illinois loan portfolio. Prior, Callahan served as the agribusiness director for WMBD in Peoria, a position she held for 30 years. She was the first female president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting. Callahan received her Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign." Source

First, let me point out that in the last 20 years the IDNR has had four directors. Colleen Callahan will be the fifth. During that time the agency has seen massive budget cuts, disappointing leadership, the reduction of Conservation Police Officers and so on.

While some of you may have different opinions with Colleen Callahan, we have to set our differences aside and will work together.  Capitol Outdoors will continue to make sure that you are an informed hunter and angler. There is a lot of work to be done, but if Governor Pritzker wants to turn around Illinois, this agency is one place he can start.

Governor Pritzker,  let Colleen do her job and bring the DNR back to a time of, open communication, transparency, and pride.  The IDNR needs to step out of the darkness, quit hiding from the public and be the agency that we all hope they can be.

Constitutional Amendment Guaranteeing the Right to Hunt & Fish Filed in Illinois

Each year thousands of bills and resolutions get filed in Illinois to become law.  Most of these bills get stuck in committee and never really gain any traction.  Bills, however, that have legislator support, constituent support or are overall popular, usually end up seeing movement.  However, popularity doesn't always stem from within the state and outside influence can also start the avalanche of support for a particular bill.  Let's take a look at one of the most recent House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment.

Governor Pritzker Announces $28.9 Million in Grants for 89 Local Park Projects Throughout Illinois

Governor Pritzker Announces $28.9 Million in Grants for 89 Local Park Projects Throughout Illinois

OSLAD Grants Will Support Park Development and Open Space Land Acquisition in 29 Counties

SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker today announced $28.9 million in grants for 89 local projects that will help communities acquire open space and develop and improve recreational facilities throughout Illinois.

“Investments in Illinois’ local parks makes it easier for families and recreation enthusiasts to enjoy our state’s beauty and help their communities thrive,” Governor Pritzker said. “Parks projects will also create jobs, providing a boost to local economic development efforts in dozens of communities and spurring additional investment throughout the state.”

Over 150,000 Harvested Deer during 2018-2019 Seasons

That's a wrap for the 2018 - 2019 deer season.  Below you'll see the preliminary harvest numbers and information provided by the IDNR.  I would like to thank all those that contributed their pictures of their harvest.  

Illinois 2018-19 Deer Hunting Seasons Result in Preliminary Harvest of 151,577 Deer

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary total of 151,577 deer during all 2018-19 archery and firearm seasons, which concluded on Jan. 20. The total preliminary deer harvest for all seasons compares with a total harvest for all seasons of 147,695 deer in 2017-18.

During the 2018-19 deer seasons, hunters took 45 percent does and 55 percent males.

Illinois Conservation Foundation Scholarships Now Available

Attention high school seniors, here is a great opportunity for scholarships.  If you hunt, fish and enjoy the outdoors you need to apply.  Applications are due March 15, 2019.  See below for links and more information.

Logo copied from Illinois Conservation Foundation 

High School Seniors Can Apply Now for an ICF Conservation Achievement Scholarship

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Applications are now being accepted by the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) for the 2019 Conservation Achievement Scholarship program. The ICF annually awards scholarships to outstanding high school seniors in Illinois who demonstrate effective, voluntary, long-term dedication to the preservation, protection or enhancement of the state’s natural resources. Up to three scholarships of $2,000 each are available for the current school year.

Fulton-Mason Eagle Day Saturday, February 2, 2019

Fulton-Mason Eagle Day

Saturday, February 2, 2019 - 9:00am to 4:00pm

Free, donations accepted

Join us for the annual Fulton-Mason Eagle Day event. Activities include live raptor programs, hands-on activities and crafts for kids, and bird watching in various locations in Lewistown and Havana, Illinois. The event is free and for all ages.

Late Season Archery Harvest Numbers

Deer harvest totals stayed up the majority of the 2018 - 2019 season with 60% of the 57,237 taken by compound bow and 39% harvested by crossbows.  While there is still a time to fill those tags, hunters during last weeks harvest shot 75% does.  

Kellie with her mature buck from Macoupin County.  It scored 160 7/9.  Big congrats to Kellie on her harvest!

ARCHERY DEER SEASON
Through Tuesday, January 1, 2019, Illinois archery deer hunters harvested a preliminary total of 57,237 deer, compared to 55,599 for the same period in the 2017-18 season.

New Years Newsbits January 2019

Illinois DNR Newsbits – January 2019

• Spring Turkey Applications: Think spring by applying now for the second lottery for 2019 Illinois Spring Wild Turkey Season permits. The application deadline for the second lottery is Jan. 11. Go to the IDNR website for more information at https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/TurkeyHunting.aspx