2 Outdoor Nebraska

So That You May Know!

Dear Fellow Sportsmen: The Game Commission and its staff are proud to report to the Sportsmen of Outdoor Nebraska that the State Game Forestation and Parks Commission has emerged from a rather trying legislative session with clean records and approved budgets. Since the policy of the Commission is to completely divorce itself from friction born of political relationships and exaggerated personality differences, no comment will be offered pertinent to certain criticisms which may have arisen from such sources outside of the Commission. However, certain questions have been noted from an interested public which indicate a need for additional factual information which would be of interest to our co-operating legislators and sportsmen. The cooperation of these friends all over the State has been deeply appreciated and respected by the Commission and its staff. Therefore, in the interest of keeping such cooperators informed of the policies and activities of the Game Commission, the following questions have been chosen for consideration. The last issue of "Outdoor Nebraska" presented a complete description of the many divisions within jurisdiction of the Game Commission. Copies of this issue are still available upon request. This issue will be devoted to the answering of questions taken from the daily mail bag in order that all sportsmen may understand the policies and problems of the Commission with a resulting uninimity of thought and common purpose in order that we may co-operatively attack the herculean task of saving Outdoor Nebraska for ourselves and, more particularly, for generations of Outdoor Nebraskans yet to come. In appreciation of your cooperation of the past and future, I remain Very truly yours, Game, Forestation and Parks Commission PAUL T. GILBERT Executive Secretary

Know Nebraska Best

All true Nebraskans who consider themselves real mid' western enthusiasts should know as much as possible about their Cornhusker State, in order that others may thereby come to know and love Nebraska as we do. From the heart of the Pine Ridge to the bluffs of the "Ole Missouri", there just is no place like Nebraska.

Questions and Answers

1. Are the Game Commissioners elected or appointed? What is their salary?

ANSWER: There are seven members of the Commission, only four of which may be of the same political party. They are appointed by the Governor for a period of five years and their terms are staggered so that no more than two Commissioners are appointed within any given year. The Commission meets approximately every month in their offices on the ninth floor of the Capitol Building. Their only remuneration is reimbursement of actual expense and $10.00 per diem.

2. What political affiliations must an applicant have to be employed by the Game Commission?

ANSWER: The Same Commission is nonpolitical and neither the Commission or its Secretary know the political affiliations of Game Department personnel, nor do they care to know.

3. An accusation has been made that the Game Commission keeps no records and follows no budget. Is this true?

ANSWER: This is one of the most absurd statements that has been made regarding the State Game Commission. The Commission maintains a staff of seven bookkeepers and clerks to record the near million dollar a year business of developing our Outdoor Nebraska. Complete records are maintained on a daily basis on permit accounts, expenditures, incumberances, inventories and detailed records are maintained on cost accounts on all production items and projects. Fiscal year budgets are drawn and followed in every one of the Commission's thirty divisions. All books and records are audited each year by State Auditors and again by Federal Auditors.

In order to show the detail followed in each division an actual page from one of the thirty page budget is reproduced below.

GAME LAW ENFORCEMENT 19A9-50 19J0-51 Salariee Permanent * 63,060.00 4 63,300.00 Teapornqr Operating Expenee Foetage and rrelgat 500.00 500.00 Utilitiea 600.00 600.00 Board and Soon 18,950.00 18,950.00 Travel 17,050.00 17,050.00 Pnbllahing (law booka, ate.) 4,000.00 2,000.00 General Expenae 1,000.00 1,000.00 Suppllea 3,900.00 3.900.00 Maintenance and Rapalr 10,000.00 10,000.00 Propertlaa and Iaprovenanta Radio Equip. * tttaaenrl River Boat* 5,000.00 7 eara each year 5,000.00 5,000.00 rnlfora Replacement 1,500.00 1,500.00 airplane Operation 1.200.00 i.aoo.oo_ Totala $126,76O.O0 1130,000.00 Biennial Total ----- 1256,760,00

This budget request is an excess of previous budgets due to the filling of the field complement of officers and equipment after the war period. It does not reflect any anticipation of additiona officers.

  4 Outdoor Nebraska

In addition to the budget forms set up as pictured above, complete detailed costs on individual kinds of fish, birds, construction units are maintained by the individual supervisors. These are, in turn, summarized in the departmental financial reports. For example, the following reflects a summary of 1948 expenditures.

In addition to income and expenditure details, complete records are maintained on the "where, what and how many" of game and fish stocked and trees planted. The following is typical of the individual index cards showing this information as maintained by the Fisheries Division.

Number of Pheasants and Quail Released in 1948 County Pheasant .. 720 ... 144 __ ._ .. 564 1.020 1.252 400 .. 720 . 1.440 Hall ..._ ___ 720 Holt. ...___ .. _ . 360 . . _ ... 36 ... 1,155 . _ ._ ... 288 Otoe __ .. 374 .. 27 • __ ... _ 576 Sentts Bluff _ . __ ___ 6!)6 .. .. 240 772 __ ___ 560 York Quail 20 40 40 140 20 160 100 40 60 20 100 80 20 20 40 20 100 20 20 20 20 160 120 60 80 80 40 60 20 40 20 20 Totals .. 12,624   Outdoor Nebraska 5 Approximate Total Fish Stocked (State and Federal) by Counties in 1948: County Catfish 150 Warm 19,173 10,341 12,104 Cold Total 19,173 16.246 26,587 12,104 . 500 21,451 9,715 8,115 10.050 17,639 11,395 20,820 10.700 20,975 3.300 30,134 44,357 500 6.400 12,794 2,700 10,-333 11,388 9 110,676 21,451 . 4,625 9,715 43,395 51,510 . 50 10,050 . 3,000 24,152 41,791 Buffalo ... . 1,400 11,395 20,820 10,700 2,100 23.075 3,300 . 10,534 30,134 47,416 91,773 Cheyenne ... Clay ... 500 6,400 1,000 12,794 2,700 2,000 10,333 11,388 9 26,600 26,609 .. 38 110,676 40,995 65,745 32,107 1,700 42,695 5,000 65.745 Dundy ... . 500 6,874 38,981 10,100 10,100 1.4,710 21,520 2,685 1.500 1,208 10,575 150 1,600 170 100 11,200 55,937 47,367 1,000 14,710 . 1,000 . 2,185 . 1,000 . 1,000 21,520 Garden ... 1,500 4.1S5 1.500 1,208 10,575 150 Hall . 1,600 170 100 300 11,500 . 47,287 55,937 Holt . 19,100 66,467 . 1,000 1.000 11,243 1.100 10,647 19,933 6,859 16,168 23.976 22,760 186.881 3,832 1,000 11,243 1,100 . 30 10,647 Keith ... 58,500 2,500 2,300 334 78,433 9,359 18,468 Knox ... . 355 24,310 22,760 3,911 190,292 Logan . Loup ... . 1.000 . 1,000 3,832 1,000 372 21,388 9,837 16,634 925 1,225 2,650 24,040 1,317 21,388 9,837 . 1,520 3,200 19,834 925 925 1,225 2,650 24,040 1.317 Phelps ... 800 9,550 2,900 9,550 2,900 2,350 933 7,650 28,042 5.475 9,436 283,780 73,100 15,159 7,300 2,350 933 7,650 2.500 28,042 Sarpy . 5,475 9,436. Scotts Bluff ... 12.712 . 3.600 4,000 8,900 292,680 73,100 Sheridan ... 44,000 59,159 7,300 66,000 66,000 3,300 400 4,200 50 1,000 2.400 3,300 400 ... 1,500 2,000 6,200 50 Valley . . 1,000 1,000 2,400 . 1,000 3,578 35,162 43,540 800 1,800. 383,628 4,378 Wheeler . York ... 7.000 . 500 36,962 43,540 Totals 122,847 1,644,958 2,029,586 (Catfish figures are included in the Warm Water Fish totals.)   6 Outdoor Nebraska

4. Why was the recent permit increase necessary?

ANSWER: During the war period the Commission's balance grew materially through intentional economy on the part of the Commission, thereby freeing men and materials for war use. Since the war period, the Commission has entered a period of accelerated activity, additional Conservation Officers were hired, a new State Fish Hatchery constructed, all equipment replaced, several land areas purchased for public use, small work crews were increased to capacity, all in order to try and produce fish and game for nearly three times as many hunters and fishermen. This, of course, rapidly dispersed the original balance, as shown by the graph above. Therefore, the Commission reached a stage in its planning where either increased income was necessary to carry on at the present accelerated rate, or a radical retrenchment program was necessary. The decision was left to the sportsmen and the Legislature.

5. Why did the Commission experience so much difficulty with budgets this Legislative Session?

ANSWER: This is just a little difficult to fully analyze as the same budgetary procedure was used this year as has been used for several years. The first budget was drawn up by the Commission and approved by the Tax Commissioner and Governor. It was based upon the Commission's present accelerated program and showed the need for additional funds. This budget was not accepted by the Legislative Budget Committee because it supposedly requested more money than was taken in by the Department the past year. Therefore, a new budget was drawn up by the Commission based on last year's income as the anticipated income and an amount of three hundred thousand set aside as a working balance. This balance is necessary inasmuch as the Commission's funds are received in small payments throughout the whole year. The Commission, then, must protect itself with this working balance until the next year's accumulations are large enough to replace it. This budget was not accepted in as much as the Legislative Budget Committee requested   Outdoor Nebraska 7 a budget showing an allocation of all funds with no protective working balance. This request was fulfilled and the budget was then accepted. A further budget was requested upon passage of the permit bill in order that the additional fees might be available to the Commission. Still another budget is being prepared for the Commission by its staff which will be its actual working budget. This will be so set up that the Commission is protected, at least unofficially, with a working balance, a sound budgetary procedure in any big business.

6. Why does the Game Department own a large two motor plane?

ANSWER: The only plane owned by the Game Department is a single engine Cub Cruiser, cost $3,274.94, which is used entirely for Law Enforcement and game census work and which, incidentally, has greatly increased the efficiency of both types of work. Additional plane rental is occasionally approved for the same purposes. Incidentally, in answer to the accusation that this is a pleasure craft, no Same Commissioner or the Secretary has ever flown in the State plane, although they, of course, would do so if a departmental emergency required it.

7. Why did the Game Department buy a $15,000.00 boat with galley and sleeping accommodations for four, to put on Lake McConaughy?

ANSWER: The boat purchased by the Commission is a $4,307.65 Cris-Craft with a cabin house only. There are no accommodations other than seats. This 22 ft. boat was, of necessity, this large in order to take the high waves that develop on the Lake. It is a life saving and patrol boat and has already been effective in the saving of human life. No fishing or hunting is permitted from this boat and only one Commissioner and the Secretary have ever ridden in the boat, and then only on an inspection tour.

8. Why does the Commission need 200 pairs of binoculars?

ANSWER: The conservation officers and field biologists each have a pair of good binoculars checked out on their inventory, in as much as an officer must be able to see the details of a violation from a distance and field biologists must be able to examine conditions of game animals and game birds in detail from a distance. 38 pairs of binoculars are owned by the Department and 5 of these are cheap war surplus glasses, purchased when others were unavailable.

9. Is it not true that organized, so-called, sportsmen's groups run the State Commission and that these groups are made up only of rich sportsmen?

ANSWER: The answer to this question is a big, round "NO". The Same Commission, in the first place, respects and solicits suggestions and observations from all citizens. These facts and opinions are then considered along with reports from Department field-men and supervisors and the best practical decision results which will furnish as much sporting pleasure as possible without endangering basic breeding game populations. Proof of this lies in certain criticism the Commission has had resulting from the Commission's failure to follow certain groups with too generous game killing desires. All anyone has to do to find out what comprises an average wildlife group is to go with anyone of the Commission's staff who presents game programs and analyze the crowd. Whether it's Omaha or Scottsbluff, Minden or Ainsworth, the story is always the same, "Just average, plain folks", representing an average cross section of America. In fact, if anything, the so-called "rich man" is conspicuous by his absence. The guiding forces of Commission thinking are:

1. Public need 2. Same and fish populations 3. Breeding success 4. Available finances

10. Why are fish and game not apportioned out to individual counties in proportion to the number of hunting and fishing permits sold by the individual counties?

ANSWER: This is due entirely to the fact that Mother Nature did not apportion good game cover and good fishing water equally to all counties in Nebraska, and even if she had, the areas of high human concentration would soon disintegrate such natural oases with the by-products of civilization.

The Commission has no county, east versus west or north versus south favorites. In the west the problems of the Commission are problems of game management, in the east the problems are more appropriately termed human management, resulting in natural game propagation in the west and artificial stocking of mature game in the east for immediate public harvest.

11. How can I become a part-time conservation officer?

ANSWER: The Same Commission does not favor part-time appointments. The work of a conservation officer is a full-time year around position requiring men of high caliber and men with very specialized, continuous training.

  8 Outdoor Nebraska 1949 CONSERVATION OFFICER DISTRICTS Villiam R. Cunningham, Super., 2905 South 44th, Lincoln, Nebr. 1. Leon J. Cunningham, P. O. Box 22, Hay Springs, Nebr.- 2. Allen G. McCarroll, Cody, Nebr. 3. Jack D. Strain, Box 191, Ainsworth, Nebr. 4. Samuel Grasmick, P. O. Box 306, O'Neill, Nebr. 5. Myron L. Burney, Box 143, Neligh, Nebr. 6. 7. George R. Weidman, 1520 M. Street, Gering, Nebr. 8. George O. Rishling, Oshkosh, Nebr. 9. Loron Bunney, P. O. Box 675, Ogallala, Nebr. 10. Lee Jensen, P. O. Box 531, North Platte, Nebr. 11. Roe E. Meyer, Box 802, Sargent, Nebr. 12. H. Burman Guyer, P. O. Box 102, Overton, Nebr. 13. Arthur O. Edmunds, P. O. Box 388, Grand Island, Nebr. 14. Robert E. Benson, 2021'/2 Fourteenth St., Columbus, Nebr. 15. C. W. Shaffer, P. O. Box 202, Columbus, Nebr. 16. William J. Ahern, Box 82, Fremont, Nebr. 17. H. Lee Bowers, Benkelman, Nebr. 18. William G. Schulti, 1109 East Second, McCook, Nebr. 19. James E. Scott, P. O. Box 315, Minden, Nebr. 20. Donald S. Lidolph, Fairfield, Nebr. 21. Roy E. Owen, P. O. Box 288, Crete, Nebr. 22. Bernard L. Patton, 531 South 22nd, Lincoln, Nebr. 23. Edward M. Cassell, P. O. Box 22, Steele City, Nebr.   Outdoor Nebraska 9 GAME, FORESTATION AND PARKS COMMISSION 1948 PERMITS ISSUED BY COUNTIES County Fish $1.00 Adams .. 1,729 Antelope .. 979 Arthur 117 Banner 25 Blaine . 118 Boone 462 Box Butte 1,162 Boyd 280 Brown .. 500 Buffalo 2,460 Burt ... 521 Butler .. 524 Cass .. 854 Cedar 261 Chase 629 Cherry .. 864 Cheyenne ... 1,016 Clay .. 371 Colfax .. 689 Cuming 669 Custer .. 1,157 Dakota 401 Dawes .. 1,072 Dawson 2,822 Deuel 397 Dixon 141 Dodge .. 2,568 Douglas 14,706 Dundy ... 371 Fillmore ..._ ... 485 Franklin .. 336 Frontier 523 Furnas 940 Gago 1,605 Garden 728 Garfield 252 Gosper 593 Grant . 131 Greeley ... 172 Hall 2,393 Hamilton ... 328 Harlan 390 Hayes ... 83 Hitchcock 406 Holt 1,204 Hooker 100 Howard 448 Jefferson .. 951 Johnson 276 Kearney 297 Keith 1,752 Keya Paha 68 Kimball 426 Knox 592 Lancaster 6,816 Lincoln 3,689 Logan 31 Loup 49 McPherson .. 52 Madison 1,879 Merrick ... 536 Morrill .. 803 Nanco 437 Nemaha 613 Nuckolls 305 Otoe 741 Pawnee 356 Perkins 501 Phelps .' . 936 Pierce 524 Platte ...: ... 1.427 Polk .. 507 Tied Willow 1,087 Bichardson .. 1,220 Bock .. 389 Saline .. 870 Sarpy 326 Saunders 1,009 Sootts Bluff 3,035 Seward 941 Sheridan 841 Sherman .. 223 Sioux 126 Stanton 235 Thaver .. 395 Thomas 195 Thurston ...-... 187 Valley 497 Washington 391 Wayne 228 Webster 297 Wheeler 184 York .. 942 Fish and Hunt Non-Resident Non-Resident Hunt $1.50 Hunt Fish $1.00 Number Number Number 2,218 3,264 80 37 606 1,400 16 21 22 102 3 3 25 51 79 219 5 877 833 20 9 1,011 1,155 14 37 409 694 8 46 300 941 11 56 2,182 4,013 75 34 683 827 12 1 691 1,168 3 2 987 1.509 6 12 1.136 620 43 657 1.276 34 86 473 1,228 12 157 771 1,427 54 47 764 1,205 32 4 198 1,110 25 4 789 1,194 7 7 1,673 2,475 61 21 1,141 570 56 210 705 1,344 13 91 1,531 3.652 62 227 255 663 31 170 624 532 9 1,768 2,974 25 92 12.641 15.060 180 260 355 641 62 1,032 884 1,242 46 9 574 819 36 100 300 784 12 42 895 1,709 49 139 1,642 2,492 35 28 ?35 638 23 207 212 527 5 130 678 9 421 - 84 186 8 4 533 413 8 5 2,369 3,885 60 43 602 742 13 . 3 513 845 48 148 140 197 5 1 495 832 30 231 831 2,187 32 23 61 191 8 411 841 22 10 935 1,568 37 73 456 814 1 2 585 793 38 12 618 2.202 80 1,426 110 182 2 16 269 507 33 83 1,036 1,249 33 14 6,808 8.718 94 54 2,020 4,608 70 423 130 139 4 67 150 1 32 74 1,969 2,756 54 22 674 1,190 19 8 580 1,042 68 43 311 782 8 10 618 1,095 16 17 672 819 39 43 1,027 1,469 34 7 270 637 5 11 321 943 34 87 777 1,446 39 92 676 975 7 4 1,112 2,218 26 24 386 913 10 1 1.272 1.828 42 202 886 1,831 24 100 186 456 8 19 1,063 2,193 17 2 359 486 5 1,050 1,713 14 7 2,497 3,830 77 98 943 1,541 14 9 729 1,545 23 74 541 518 16 2 56 140 29 292 532 5 3 832 1,134 48 32 59 238 4 11 404 392 3 698 946 10 14 596 782 7 6 754 607 15 3 436 570 35 71 95 199 9

10 Outdoor Nebraska

Letters from Here and There

Omaha, Nebraska Kind Sirs: I would like to have a little information which I know you will be glad to give me. Is it legal to use anise oil in your mixture of catfish lure or any kind of lure? I have been told NOT but I haven't been able to find anything about anything like this in the fishing rules. Thanking you for the information as well as for myself and others and kindly inclose in your letter the new game laws of Nebraska. P.S. How about fish oil and limburger cheese? I would also like to find out what National Parks (such as Yellowstone) that the entrance fee when paid on entering gives you the right to fish there in without buying a state license and where should I write to find out about same. I remain, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that it is legal to use anise oil in any catfish bait mixture; also any fish oil or limburger cheeses. With respect to the information on National Parks, we suggest that you write directly to the National Park Service, Washington, D. C. Very truly yours, Game, Forestation and Parks Commission Omaha, Nebraska Dear Sirs: I wish you would send me information on laws as to trammel net use in the Missouri River. Such as how much help or someone else using the net for me? How far from the mouth of a river and so forth, or if two men can have a permit on the same net? Yours, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that every seine or net in possession in the State of Nebraska must be licensed and tagged in the name of the person who possesses it. Such a net can be used only when the man who owns it and has it licensed is with the net. Anyone who helps in the operation of this net must have a legal Nebraska fishing license before so doing. It is illegal to let anyone other than the licensed commercial fisherman use the net. All nets which are not licensed and sealed by this Department will be confiscated, if found in use. All unlicensed nets which are in possession will be confiscated if the owner does not license them within a respectable period of time after being notified. No nets may be used within 300 yards in any direction from the mouth of any stream emptying into the Missouri River. We are enclosing a marked copy of the law book for your use. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Dear Sirs: I am writing you in regards to a pair of cardinals I received from California. Would like to know if I have to have a permit to keep them and if I can raise them and sell them. I heard that I would have to have a permit. I didn't know that. Please let me know by return mail. Thank you, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Madam: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that there are no provisions in Nebraska law which would authorize the granting of a permit for keeping protcted, insectivorous birds—such as cardinals—in captivity for any purpose. If they are native American cardinals, they are protected by both Federal and State law and most certainly could not be raised for sale without proper permits from the Federal Government. As we stated above, the Nebraska statutes provide for a game farmers permit only, which does not include insectivorous birds. We are sorry that we cannot give you any more helpful   Outdoor Nebraska 11 information than this but such operations are controlled by statutory law. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Hartlngton, Nebraska Dear Sir: In regard to fishing laws, there is a stream of water that starts at Hartington, Nebraska, which was known as the old Logan some years ago. A Government dredging machine went through and opened it up. It empties into the Blkhorn River, twelve miles north of Fremont near Winslow. What I would like to know is how many feet has a fisherman got a right to walk on each side of this stream? There is a farmer that owns the land on both sides of the stream and he won't let anyone in there even if they walk in the middle of the stream. Will you kindly let me know just what the law in this case requires? Respectfully, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that there is no such thing as a free bankage law on any stream in the State of Nebraska. The landowner is in complete control of any stream which flows through or along his land; consequently, it will be necessary to ask for permission to fish in such waters. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Hamlet, Nebraska Dear Sirs: Is it permissable to spear or shoot with bow and arrow, carp or buffalo? Is a permit required? Thanking you for an early answer. Respectfully, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that we have checked the State Statutes with respect to the use of bow and arrow for the taking of fish and find that there is no provision for taking of fish in this manner. The statutory law specifically says that it is illegal to take fish by means other than hook or line with the exception of spearing between April I to December I, which is legal during those dates. We are very sorry but we, of this Department, cannot change the intent or reading of state laws. Consequently, it would appear that taking fish with bow and arrow would come in the category of shooting fish which is illegal. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Lenox, Iowa Dear Sirs: Do you have your 1949 Non-resident Hunting license on sale. I have tried several times but haven't been able to purchase one as yet. Yours truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter of March 21, we wish to advise you that there are no Non-Resident Permits available for sale in the State of Nebraska until after July I, of each year. All of our game bird hunting is confined to the fall period of the year. Consequently, we do not set our regulations or issue any permits until the latter half of each year. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Pawnee City, Nebraska Dear Sir: Could you give me any information as to the use of boats on Johnson Lake. Can a man use his own boat or can a man rent one? Yours truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that under present rules and regulations you may use any boat you choose on any waters in the State of Nebraska. At Johnson Reservoir you may either use your own boat or you may rent a boat. To date, the State has imposed no boating laws or regulations; however, there may be such laws and regulations in 1950. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission West Point, Nebraska Mr. Gilbert: I suppose you will think this is a foolish question but we have an argument up here and would like to have you help us settle it. Does a game warden have to have a permit to go on a farm that is posted with "No Trespassing" signs? Does he have to get a warrant before he can-go on such a farm to arrest a man? The boys all say I am wrong when I say a game warden can go anywhere anytime except in a man's house or home. Respectfully,   12 Outdoor Nebraska   Outdoor Nebraska 13   14 Outdoor Nebraska Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: We have your letter and are very happy that you have written to us for the true story on the authorities of our officers. We are enclosing a copy of the laws pertinent to hunting and fishing for your use. We have marked the pages which you should read for an answer to your question. These statutory laws very definitely state that a game warden with the authorities of a state sheriff, and when in line of duty, can go on any properties at any time whether they are pos'-ed, privately owned or not. The only time a search warrant is necessary or a warrant of any type, is when an officer enters an occupied dwelling or when he intends to bring an individual into court by force. We trust that you will find you have been right in the argument with the boys. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Cedar Creek, Nebraska Dear Sirs: I am writing in regard to the regulations on spearing non-game fish in the Cedar River. It is open to spearing in Garfield county this year. What I want to know is if a person is in the river or close to the bank of the river fishing, is he trespassing on anyone's land? Also, is a person trespassing on anyone's land when he drives down to the river in a laid-out road where there is a bridge across the river? When a person leaves his car by this laid-out road and goes ahead and spears fish, whether he is in the river or on the bank of the river, does he have to get off when this certain party says so? This certain party owns several miles of the river where it is the best fishing and when he catches us in there he tells us to get off, we can't understand it. He uses all the vulgar language there is in the book. I am sending a stamped envelope for a reply. Truly yours, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we are sending you a copy of the fishing regulations for 1949 and we wish to advise you that, according to legal interpretations of trespass rights in Nebraska, a man who owns the land adjacent to a stream is in control of that stream entirely to the center of the channel. The person who own: the land on the other side of the stream is also in control of that stream to the center of the channel from that side. If an individual owned the lands on both sides of a stream, he would be completely in control of that stream and its waters; other than the fact that he cannot dam up or divert those waters fo the detriment of landowners further downstream. Theoretically, an individual who enters the stream from a bridge or public access by boat and stays on the water without anchoring or tying up fo the shoreline would be free to use the stream and its waters. From a practical standpoint, the landowner probably would have a tough time keeping anyone from fishing in his stream legally. It would be a matter of considerable court action and very few cases have been successfully completed on trespass of waters. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Hays, Kansas Gentlemen: For the past several years I have been doing some fishing in your state at the Johnson Reservoir. I have heard it rumored that you have raised your out of state fishing license. Will you please tell me what the out of state fishing fee will be this year? While I am writing to a fish and game department, I might just as well ask you another question. As an illustration: Suppose I have a Nebraska non-resident hunting license and a federal duck stamp. Would it be possible for the State of Nebraska to prohibit me from hunting ducks within state boundaries? Respectfully yours, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter of March 18, we wish to advise you that the fee for non-resident fishing permit from the State of Nebraska has not been raised as yet. If it is raised, it will not be effective until 1950. Anyone who possesses a Nebraska non-resident hunting permit and a federal duck stamp is entitled to hunt migatory waterfowl, including   Outdoor Nebraska 15 ducks and geese, in the State of Nebraska during the legal open season. To date, we have had .no restrictions of this type on the non-resident. The State of South Dakota is probably the one which you have heard has such a restriction. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Glenvil, Nebraska Dear Sirs: Will you please send me some information which tells which animals are protected in this state? What dates are the seasons for hunting these animals and how many is each hunter to take? Yours truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Madam: In response to your letter of March 3, we are sending you the game laws and regulations for the State of Nebraska. We wish you to know that bag limits and seasons for each type of bird or animal are set each year and those for 1949 have not been formulated as yet. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Bloomfield, Nebraska Dear Director: We live on the Nebraska side of the Missouri River in Knox County. Bon Homme County, South Dakota, is just across the river. Bon Homme Island is on the Nebraska side but belongs to South Dakota and is a game reserve. I would like to know just where I can hunt and fish legally on the river? How far out in the river is legal hunting and fishing for Nebraska people? How far above or below the game reserve is allowed? Is it illegal to carry a gun through the reserve? Do I have to take it apart while I drive through? Our road goes through the reserve and in order to avoid going through would have to travel ten miles farther. Please send me a copy of fishing laws and also a copy of hunting laws as advertised in "Sports Afield" magazine. Thanking you, I am Sincerely, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter of March I, we wish to advise you that you, as a resident of Nebraska, can fish and hunt legally in any portion of the Missouri River lying on the Nebraska side of the channel or the center of the stream, unless, as in the case of Bon Homme Island, which is South Dakota property and is also a game reserve, even though it lies on the Nebraska side of the river if would be illegal for you to fish or hunt in such an area. The distance above or below the game reserve on the river on which you could legally hunt and fish as a Nebraskan depends entirely upon which state owns the property or lands on which side of the river at the point which you choose to fish or hunt. As far as we know, it would be legal for you to carry your gun across this reserve but we would suggest that you take it apart when so doing in order to avoid any possible difficulties with the South Dakota authorities. We are enclosing copies of our fishing and hunting laws and regulations for your use. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Holdrege, Nebraska Dear Mr. Gilbert: I have had a question on my mind since the hunting season closed and I would like to have you answer it for me. I do quite a bit of duck and goose hunting on the Platte River and I also have a ten gauge shotgun I use while I go goose hunting. Could you tell me if the law permits you to have two guns in a duck blind at one time? My sixteen gauge is too small for geese so I generally shoot a ten guage. I have read about the laws that may come in to effect about pheasant hunting. I do not at all think that one hen pheasant should be in the bag limit. The two and three bag limit is very sufficient and also the hours are fine. I believe that most of the hunters around here will agree with me in all respects. Thanking you kindly Respectfully yours, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In response to your letter we wish to advise you that there would be nothing illegal in your having two shotguns in your blind at the same time. We would suggest, however, that it would look much better if one of the guns was unloaded at all times, such that no one could accuse you unjustly of having the two guns so as to get more shots than the three allowed in the one gun.   16 Outdoor Nebraska We are most pleased to see your expression as to the shooting of hen pheasants and can assure you that this Department will never favor the killing of hen pheasants unless it is desirable to reduce our pheasant population, which day I don't believe we shall ever see again. Thanks for your interest Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Broken Bow, Nebraska Dear Sirs: Will you please tell me how much forest land is owned by the State and by the Federal Government in the State of Nebraska? Very truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Madam: At the present time the Nebraska Game, Forestation and Parks Commission owns three tracts of timber land in the Pine Ridge section in Sioux and Sheridan counties, comprising approximately 5,000 acres. The United States Forest Service in their Halsey and Nenzel divisions of their national forest system own approximately 203,000 acres of land. Not all of this latter mentioned land is forested. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Marsland, Nebraska Dear Sir: I save been checking over a copy of the 1948-4 9 Trapping Laws and find nothing about weasels. Will you please advise me whether or not you have any trapping laws on weasel and if so, what the dates are? Yours truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: Section 37-101 defining fur-bearing animals fails to include the weasel as a fur-bearing animal, and as such is not protected by State statutes; nor do the regulations of the Commissioners of the Nebraska Game, Forestation and Parks Commission establish a season on the common weasel. The season, to all intents and purposes, is open at all times within the State of Nebraska. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Gentlemen: Chicago, Illinois I shall very much appreciate receiving any information you may be able to give regarding your house trailer camping facilities at State Parks and Recreation Grounds. Yours truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: In reply to your letter we wish to advise that we do not have any separately developed area that provides for trailer parking on our recreation grounds, however, it is pemitted on these areas. We take care of all the trailers possible at the following State Parks: Chadron State Park, Chadron, Nebr. Niobrara State Park, Niobrara, Nebr. Ponca State Park, Ponca, Nebr. We have over forty recreational areas where there are fish lakes, where trailers are permitted to park, although none of these areas are supplied with electricity and have only wells for water supply. There is no charge for parking at any of these areas, although there would be a small charge for electricity where it is possible to hook on. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission Mount Vernon, N.Y. Gentlemen: Would you please send me information on the State Parks of Nebraska, with special reference to bathing, boating and camping facilities? Yours truly, Lincoln, Nebraska Dear Sir: We are enclosing herewith phamphlets on State Parks and Rrecreation Grounds. Camping is permitted at all the State Parks with the exception of Stolley State Park, Grand Island, Nebraska, and Arbor Lodge State Park, Nebraska City, Nebraska. There are only two State Parks where bathing is permitted and those are Chadron State Park and Niobrara State Park. Boating facilities are available at the following State Parks: Chadron, Niobrara, Victoria Springs and Ponca. Very truly yours, G. F. and P. Commission

Outdoor Nebraska 17

FISCAL EXPENDITURES 1947-48 AND FIRST HALF OF 1948-49

LAW ENFORCEMENT 1947-48 Expenditures $134 757 14 1948-49 (first-half) 67,842.55

This Division is responsible for checking field accounts, hunters, fishermen and trappers, taking bird census, checking fur houses, and general attention to public relations in helping the public enjoy themselves outdoors.

EDUCATION 1947-48 Expenditures ..$9,290 54 1948-49 (first-half) 3,294.82

This Division is responsible for a state-wide radio program each week, the time for which is donated by the various radio stations. OUTDOOR NEBRASKA, publications, maps, etc., are edited by this Division. All State and county wildlife fair exhibits and all lecture and program assignments are handled by this Division.

COMMISSION 1947-48 Expenditures ..$4,010 15 1948-49 (first-half) $ 902.22

Commissioners receive no remuneration other than $10 per diem and actual expense. They meet about every month at the State Capitol, taking time from their own personal business for this activity.

OFFICE 1947-48 Expenditures ...:._..$21,617 26 1948-49 (first-half) .. 20,498,63

This Division handles all permits, permit accounts, and all records pertinent to income and expenditures, as well as the over-all administration.

  18 Outdoor Nebraska FISHERIES DIVISION 1947-48 Expenditures $146,730.08 1948-49 (first-half) 84,769.22

This Division is responsible for all seining in the State, through the use of a large crew located at North Platte, as well as being responsible for all fish hatcheries. All stocking of lakes, approval of Federal applications and fisheries research are a part of this Division. The Commission was able to stock a total of over two million fish in 1948. Through the cooperation of this Division with Federal Hatcheries, Nebraska is receiving very generous allocations of large trout and other fish for local stocking. In order to accomplish the greatest efficiency possible with this Division, the Commission has the past year assigned Mr. Glen R. Foster full-time to the supervision of fisheries. Previously Mr. Foster was also in charge of the State Parks, Forestry, and Construction and Maintenance crews. The Commission is following a rather set policy of continually attempting to propagate more fish, rearing them to near legal size, or better, before stocking wherever possible. This, in conjunction with a continued lake development, is gradually increasing fishing possibilities each year with accompanying success.

GAME DIVISION 1947-48 Expenditures ..$41,526.63 1948-49 (first-half) .. 35,172.10

This Division is responsible for the Game Farm and all major game management activities in the State, as well as refuges and management areas. The problems of this Division have been greatly increased the past years through radical reduction of cover, due to maximum land use arising from high agricultural prices, extreme weather conditions and high hunting pressures. This Division has recently been reorganized to include the previously separate Pittman-Robertson Federal Aid Division, and it has been augmented with a permanent work crew. This was established through need following the purchase of several large land areas for public hunting and spring nesting areas. This Division the past year produced approximately 15,000 pheasants and purchased 2,000 quail, and through the use of cooperating sportsmen's groups is shooting at a much greater production this year.

  Outdoor Nebraska 19 FEDERAL AID ( PITTM AN-ROBEBTSON) 1947-48 Expenditures $139,241.01 1948-49 (first-half) 151,135.51

In the following projects the Game Commission pays the total actual initial expense and is then reimbursed three-fourths of this amount from Federal funds derived from the excise tax on guns and ammunition.

Habitat Development (Planting) Research Fencing of Refuges Land Purchase (Hunting grounds and Refuge areas)

The Habitat Development, or game bird cover planting program, is very popular with the farmers whereby small plots of unused waste land areas are fenced, cultivated and planted with shrubs and trees beneficial to wildlife, and this is done without charge to the farmer other than his assurance of maintenance of the area for at least ten years.

In the scope of the Research Division are included such studies as; the pheasant investigation, the duck investigation, muskrat investigation, a study on predator control and the coyote and its effect upon the pheasant. Such studies produce, through scientific methods, practical applications for use within the Game Division.

STATE PARKS Park Administration 1947-48 Expenditures $ 2,095.00 1948-49 (first-half) .. 1,221.00 Arbor Lodge State Park 1947-48 Expenditures $ 8,759.59 1948-49 (first-half) .. 5,498.85 Chadron State Park 1947-48 Expenditures ..$25,714.63 1948-49 (first-half) .. 14,897.32 Victoria Springs State Park 1947-48 Expenditures $ 4,350.38 1948-49 (first-half) .. 2,410.44 Stolley State Park 1947-48 Expenditures $ 6,180.72 1948-49 (first-half) .. 2,721.39 Niobrara State Park 1947-48 Expenditures ..$11,335.74 1948-49 (first-half) .. 5,453.58 Fort Kearny State Park 1947-48 Expenditures- ..$ 163.75 1948-49 (first-half) .. 3,768,90 Ponca State Park 1947-48 Expenditures $ 3,951.61 1948-49 (first-half) .. 8,396.10 Totals for State Parks 1947-48 Expenditures $62,551.42 1948-49 (first-half) .. 44,367.58

Nebraskas' State Parks are all too little known by the average citizen. Arbor Lodge and Fort Kearny Parks are chiefly historic spots with recreation areas available for picnicking. Victoria Springs and Stolley are day-time reo reation parks while Chadron, Niobrara and Ponca are developed to fill the needs of the most critical tourist. Modern cabins with most everything furnished are available at these Parks. For further information write Game Commission office, State Capitol Bldg., Lincoln, Nebr.

20 Outdoor Nebraska

Departmental Structure

COMMISSION Executive Secretary Supervisor of Fisheries Superintendent of Seining Crews Superintendent of Gretna Fish Hatchery Superintendent of North Platte Fish Hatchery Superintendent of Rock Creek Fish Hatchery Superintendent of Valentine Fish Hatchery Fisheries Research Biologist Supervisor of Lands and Waters Superintendent of Construction Superintendent of Drafting and Survey Superintendent of Forestry Superintendent of Arbor Lodge State Park Superintendent of Stolley State Park Superintendent of Victoria Springs State Park Superintendent of Chadron State Park Superintendent of Ponca State Park Superintendent of Niobrara State Park Caretakers of State Lakes and Recreation Grounds Supervisor of Law Enforcement Twenty-three Conservation Officers Supervisor of Education-Information Artist and exhibitor Supervisor of Game Superintendent of Game Farm Land Manager Group Research Leader Research Biologists Superintendent of Development Plantings

Outdoor Nebraska 21

1949-1950 Working Budget

Audit $ 900 Office 32,160 Education and Information 29,955 Commission 6,000 Law Enforcement 138,710 Fishery Administration 12,935 Fish Research 8,245 Fish Purchase 2,000 Fish Salvage and Distribution 59,810 Gretna Fish Hatchery 13,015 Valentine Fish Hatchery 22,130 North Platte Fish Hatchery 17,675 Rock Creek Fish Hatchery 34,590 Lands and Waters Administration 20,335 Construction and Maintenance 96,520 Forestry 39,950 Supply Depot 8,950 Game Administration 48,750 Game Farm 33,840 Coordination P-R 5,660 Land Purchase P-R 7,800 Habitat Development P-R 100,043 Predator Control P-R 18,952 Research Project P-R 16,458 Fur Investigation P-R 7,247 Game Bird Investigation P-R 6,759 Duck Investigation P-R 12,111 Total Budget .$801,500

NOTE: This budget is not as large as some sportsmen might anticipate from legislative totals. It is actually a restricted budget due to the necessity of the Commission' maintaining a "working balance", pending monthly permit income and federal aid reinbursement. Some individuals would feel perhaps that greatly accelerated activity should be immediately forthcoming when the permit increase bill passed the legislature. Actually this increase will not go into effect until next January and the first effects of it will not be felt to any degree before the next fiscal year.

Working budget totals for all divisions within the Parks Administration: Arbor Lodge $ 16,410 Chadron 52,425 Victoria Springs 6,015 Stolley 6,325 Niobrara 23,035 Ponca 21,720 Fort Kearny 7,100 Contingency Fund 5.645 Total Budget $ 138,675

22 Outdoor Nebraska

A Word or two of the Future

The assignments of the duties of the Game Commission are no less difficult to fulfill than the expectations of each potential permit buyer. In this business, probably more so than in any other business or profession, the customer is always right. This, while at times disconcerting to anyone making a life's study of nature's phenomena, is actually a healthy sign, indicating extreme interest in the product at hand, namely, "Outdoor Nebraska".

The commission form of game administration is the best insurance palicy yet devised for the democratic management of our natural resources, for the average Nebraska citizen. Fish and game can be a priceless boon to individuals with political or personal gain complexes where such an individual is in sole charge of such resources. Nebraskans may be proud that their game management activities have graduated to the advance degree of commission management, which has been found by progressive states as the most democratic form of management with a minimum amount of personal or political inhibitions. However, the picture is not, at this point, complete.

It is true that Nebraska now has a very commendable Game Commission which has recently been blessed with an additional endowment for bettering those things that hunters and fishermen desire most. This alone will not prove to be the magic wand which will provide the Utopian Eden so generally desired.

To the above two important factors must be added the same cooperative pledge of faithful integrity extended any citizen by the Commission and it's employees, and anticipated in like return. If the game management picture is to remain clear and unsullied in Nebraska, it shall be only through the unification of the integrity and cooperative indulgence of all true sportsmen. With such an amalgamation of thought and purpose between the Commission and the sportsmen no insidious wedge can ever segregate these forces with resultant negative effects such as diversion of funds, political encroachment, or personal gain. Much has been gained this past year through just such unification of ideas between organized sportsmens groups and the Commission.

To this commission form of government, properly endorced financially and fully accredited with sportsman cooperation, must be added still another factor before full anticipated results can be assured. Indeed, fully as important is the factor of human education and appreciation of our natural surroundings. Such appreciation must be developed by the commission and the sportsmen for the average Nebraska citizen before any assurance can be assumed that what is being built will not be destroyed by ignorance and neglect. This will only be accomplished by youth conservation education, not as an extra curricular endeavor, but as a part of every school day; and by adult education in every club, church, and civic group where people meet for human betterment. No game minded commission, pleading and working for the conservation of already dwindling natural resources, can long survive if increasing selfish tides of human misuse cut away developments for human and wildlife benefits. Expenditures of public funds for public recreation areas and higher bird and fish populations are futile if certain uninformed individuals or groups exhibit only destructive tendencies of that which is being developed with their own money.

The watchword of the future, then, for all that exists or is to exist in "Outdoor Nebraska" is, namely, cooperative understanding and action.

No greater gift can be prepared for Nebraskans of tomorrow than a land of many lakes and waters, fully developed and well stocked with adult sized fish, along whose banks lie miles of upland cover, productive of equally productive game flocks, interspersed with easily accessible public recreation areas. Such a parcel can only he presented when accompanied by appropriate wrappings, namely, an encompassing cover of public appreciation and understanding, and, lastly, all tied with an unseverable, continuous golden chain of cooperative unity, long enough to reach to all interested persons, agencies and groups, and strong enough to protect this heritage through periods of adversity inflicted by conditions beyond rfie control of man or because of lack of self control of man himself.

Outdoor Nebraska 23

MARY'S POEM

(Believe it or not the Editor's secretary, Mrs. Mary Jane Blackburn, has caught the poetry bug and came up with this one which we thought good enough and true enough to pass on for your enjoyment and enlightenment.) Good morning, this is the Game Commission You want your farm pond stocked with fish? I'm sure Mr. Foster could help you, sir His aim is to grant your every wish. Good morning, this is the Game Commission The pheasant season for next fall? Those dates are set much later, sir Right now, we're not just sure at all. Good morning, this is the Game Commission You want a tour up to the tower? You should call the Custodian's office I think the tours begin on the hour. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Have they put fish in Oak Creek Lake? They put them in sometime last Tuesday They're in there waiting for you to take. Good morning, this is the Game Commission You say the squirrels are in your trough? Would you please call the Police Department They're the ones who'll keep them off. Good morning, this is the Game Commission You want a program for tonight? One moment, I'll give you Mr. Gilbert I'm sure he can fix you up all right. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Is the ice on the pond good enough to skate? Well, really, I haven't tried it, mam I guess if it's not, you'll have to wait. Good morning, this is the Game Commission What's that again? Lost your permit? Well, just send in 25c, my friend And we'll issue a duplicate. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Mr. Gilbert? He's on the other line Anyone else that could help you sir? Mr. Ager could tell you about that pine. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Is the job still open for the Seining Crew? Just a moment, I'll give you Mr. Foster I'm sure he's been looking just for you. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Will someone be here from twelve to one? Yes, ma'm, there's someone in the office From eight to five, and then we're done. Good morning, this is the Game Commission You want a permit to keep a coon? One moment, I'll refer you to Mr. Vance, sir He'll send a warden to check real soon, Good morning, this is the Game Commission The rentals, sir, at Chadron Park? Mr. Anderson I am sure can help you And a vacation there will hit the mark. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Can you use a rifle to shoot a duck? Mr. Cunningham, sir, will answer that question But if you do, you'll be out of luck. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Could we tell you where the crow roosts are? Mr. Vance will be very glad to help you He can tell you 'bout them near and far. Good morning, this is the Game Commission You say the bugs are in your trees? I'm sorry, sir, for that information You call the University, please. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Use pheasant feathers on your hat? Madam, I'll give you Mr. Gilbert I'm really not quite sure of that. Good morning, this is the Game Commission Yes, this is two-three three one eight Yes, we send out free information No, he won't be in till late. Yes, that lake was stocked last Monday Yes, anise oil's okay for bait No, he's gone until tomorrow Yes, it's all right if you wait. Yes, the trout are running nicely No, there's no charge on the freight Yes, it's five-fifteen, Mr. Gilbert I'm going now, I gotta date.

Sportsmen!

Remember-without the Farmer, our path will not be a happy one.