South Dakota GFP News For 7-24-09

 

 

Invasive Asian Clams Found in Lewis and Clark Lake

 

Numerous Asian clam shells have been found at Lewis and Clark Lake, indicating a high likelihood that the invasive species is established there.

Asian clams, an aquatic nuisance species, were earlier detected in the Missouri River only below Gavins Point dam in Yankton, Clay and Union Counties.

The clams are native to Southeast Asia and were first reported on the West Coast about 1930.  They have since spread to 39 states, including South Dakota.

Although often confused with more well-known zebra and quagga mussels, Asian clams do not have threads to attach to surfaces.  Asian clams have small (1.5”) oval, brown-to-black shells with distinctive, elevated concentric ridges.  They prefer shallow, still water with sandy bottoms.

Asian clams are a prolific and highly competitive species capable of rapid growth, and they can displace native species and alter food chains.  They can also have an adverse economic impact by clogging water-intake pipes, damaging boat engines, and affecting drinking water, aquaculture and irrigation facilities.  

Asian clams release free-swimming, live young that can be easily transported and spread through the movement of water and equipment from infested bodies of water (the likely means of the most recent spread in South Dakota).

Boaters and others are urged to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the nuisance clams into additional waters in South Dakota. 

Before moving among waters in the state:

1.  Inspect and remove aquatic plants, animals and mud from boats, trailers and gear.

2.  Drain water from livewells, bilges, and transom wells. Tilt motors down to allow lower units a few minutes to drain.  Remove all drain plugs and leave out until the next launch.

After the completion of a trip:

1.  Pressure wash (>140° F, 3000 psi; can use carwash) trailers, boat hulls and all interior surfaces that may hold water and all gear; direct a constant flow of hot, soapy water into lower units and rinse.

or

2.  Leave boats and gear in the open to dry for at least five days after cleaning with soap and water (hot if possible).

 While new clam infestations are not good news, effective response is dependent on early detection.  Please report any aquatic nuisance species sightings to: Andy Burgess, Aquatic Biologist, South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks at (605)-773-2743.

                                    -GFP-

 

Turkey Federation Honors GFP Officer

 PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation has named Game, Fish and Parks Conservation Officer Jeremy Roe as its 2009 Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

 Roe has been with GFP since 2005 as a conservation officer and currently serves Lincoln County. He was honored for excellence in all aspects of his work, particularly in regard to turkey hunting in South Dakota.

 “Our Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is grateful to conservation officers across South Dakota who continue to do an outstanding job,” said Dean Schueler, president of the state chapter. “We have had and continue to have a great relationship with the Game, Fish and Parks Department. The recommendations we received for this award tell us how well Jeremy represents South Dakota as our officer of the year.”

 Roe was nominated by his supervisor, Marty Pennock, and Regional Wildlife Manager Ron Schauer.

 Roe is a model conservation officer,” Pennock said.

 “Jeremy is fully engaged in his community. He uses his high school and college wrestling experience to head local youth wrestling programs and is actively involved with the local sportsman’s club. He has been more then willing to tackle leadership roles and additional responsibilities for our agency.

 “Lincoln County is also one of the most popular turkey hunting areas in the state, and Jeremy works closely with local sportsmen to manage turkey and provide access for hunters. He diligently enforces hunting rules and regulations to protect the turkey population.”

 Roe will be honored by the Turkey Federation at its state meeting in January. In addition, the state chapter will forward his name to the National Wild Turkey Federation for an annual national award to be presented in February.

This is the 10th year the award has been presented by the South Dakota Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

 

--GFP— 

 

NRA and GFP Sponsor Youth Sportsfest Camp

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Students from 8 to 15 years of age are invited to the 5th annual NRA Youth Sportsfest Camp, Aug.  8, at the Aberdeen Gun Club from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT.

Sportsfest will offer trap, archery, .22, and black-powder shooting; fishing; laser shot; game care; habitat; TIPS/ethics; and waterfowl identification classes.

 Sportsfest Camp is free, but pre-registration is required.  Registration forms are available, and must be turned in to the Aberdeen Game Fish and Parks Office, 5850 East Hwy 12, Aberdeen.

Registration forms are due by Aug. 5.  Students will also be able register the day of Sportsfest at the Rifle Range.

The first 150 participants will receive free t-shirts, and free lunch will be served.

For more information on Sportsfest Camp, call 605-229-1743 or 605-626-2391.

 

-GFP-