Field reports: Field reports

CRITTERS – Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists recently captured 28 moose in northeastern Washington and put radio collars on 24 of them.

That brings the total to more than 50 collared moose involved in the state’s first major study of the species.

A gunner in a helicopter targeted the moose with tranquilizer darts Dec. 2-6 while ground crews rushed in to take blood samples, measurements and other information before attaching the collars that hold GPS transmitters.

The project began last year with the capture of 28 adult cow moose for a five-year study of their habits, movements and survival rates.

Researchers monitor the moose year-round.

“Four of the 27 collared last year have died, three to natural causes, one to legal hunting,” said Rich Harris, department special species manager.

All of the moose captured this year survived and are in good shape, he said.

•Help researchers by reporting Washington sightings of collared moose: wdfw.wa.gov/viewing/moose

Duck Stamp increase OKed by Congress

WETLANDS – Organized sportsmen’s groups are applauding recent action in Congress that will increase the price of a federal Duck Stamp next year from $15 to $25.

The stamp channels millions of dollars toward wetlands and other waterfowl habitat conservation. The annual permit is required to hunt migratory waterfowl, but also is purchased by non-hunters to satisfy entry fees into national wildlife refuges.

The increase will be the first for the Duck Stamp since 1991.

Since 1934, sales of Federal Duck Stamps have generated more than $800 million, resulting in the purchase or lease of more than 6 million acres of U.S. wetlands habitat as part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wildlife Refuge System.

Ski, snowshoe event at 4th of July Pass

WINTER SPORTS – The 24th annual “Best Hand Fun Ski and Snowshoe” sponsored by the Panhandle Nordic Club is set for Jan. 3 at the Fourth of July Pass off Interstate-90.

The event is in conjunction with Idaho’s Free Ski Day, when the state Park N Ski vehicle sticker requirement is waived.

Check in at the pass starting at 10 a.m. Then take off at your own pace at 11:30 a.m.  Prizes and refreshments provided.

The event is a fundraiser for the club, which maintains the Fourth of July pass winter trail system.

Brown-earth-weary skiers, boarders and snowshoers aren’t giving up hope in Idaho.

“The snowshoe hut is ready for the season,” club member Geoff Harvey reported Friday after rigging up the warming structure on the trails and installing the wood-burning stove.  “All we need now is snow.”

“The Jan. 3 event is a go no matter what the conditions are,” said Jim McMillen, club president.  “We expect snow but if there isn’t any, we’ll go for a hike.”