Comments Urgently Needed to Oppose EPA Proposed Livestock Tax

November 30, 2008

The American Farm Bureau Federation has registered its opposition to an Environmental Protection Agency proposal to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act, asserting it would essentially result in new taxes on livestock operations.

“Steep fees associated with this action would force many producers out of business. The net result would likely be higher consumer costs for milk, beef and pork,” said Mark Maslyn, AFBF executive director of public policy, in comments submitted to EPA.

According to Agriculture Department figures, any farm or ranch with more than 25 dairy cows, 50 beef cattle or 200 hogs emits more than 100 tons of carbon equivalent per year, and thus would need to obtain a permit under the proposed rules. More than 90 percent of U.S. dairy, beef and pork production would be affected by the proposal. The fee for dairy cattle would be $175 per dairy cow and $87.50 for every head of beef cattle. http://tinyurl.com/5h4vsz

Cattle and other ruminants produce methane, a greenhouse gas, as a natural byproduct of the animal’s digestive process. However, globally ruminants only account for roughly 26% of methane emissions resulting from human activities. Methane is also produced by landfills (the largest US human-caused source of methane) and the production of natural gas (the second largest US source). Methane is also produced by manure management, treatment of wastewater, rice cultivation, wetlands, and the burning of forests and grasslands.

The complex regulatory schemes of the three primary Clean Air Act programs are not suited for regulating agricultural greenhouse gas. The costly burden of compliance could cause many farming operations to cease altogether.

The Department of Agriculture’s office writes: Agricultural emissions, the result of natural biological processes, are not easily calculated or controlled. Technology does not currently exist to prevent the methane produced by enteric fermentation associated with the digestive process in cows and the cultivation of rice crops; the nitrous oxide produced from tilling soils; the carbon dioxide produced by soil; and animal agriculture respiratory processes. The only means of controlling such emissions would be through limiting production which would result in decreased food supply and radical changes in human diets.

More information on livestock and methane emission can be found in the following articles:

Do Cattle Really Increase Methane In Atmosphere?
http://www.cattletoday.com/archive/2008/October/CT1776.shtml
Tiny url: http://tinyurl.com/69qun9

Cow Tax? EPA looking into regulating greenhouse gases
Tiny url: http://tinyurl.com/6ohkxo

Although the deadline to file comments was November 28, EPA will continue to post late comments. Public input on this issue is critical – please send your comments without delay.

Full information and scope of Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Regulating Greenhouse Gas Emissions under the Clean Air Act is at http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/anpr.html

How to Comment:
Comments should be identified with the Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-0318
Email comments to a-and-r-Docket@epa.gov or fax to 202-566-9744
Or follow the instructions and submit online at http://www.regulations.gov/search/index.jsp

Outdoor Writers: Don’t Miss QDMA’s Whitetail Report Press Conference at the SHOT Show

When:
Thursday, January 15 at 10 a.m.

Where:
SHOT Show Press Conference Room; Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida.

What:
The Whitetail Report will be released at a press conference hosted by the nonprofit Quality Deer Management Association to update members of the outdoor media on the status of whitetail populations and whitetail hunting in North America. The Whitetail Report focuses on emerging issues and current challenges facing the whitetail. In addition to an audio/visual presentation, conference attendees will receive a comprehensive report for future study and reference throughout the coming year. All four of QDMA’s staff wildlife biologists who compiled the report, including CEO Brian Murphy, will be available for questions and one-on-one interviews following the conference.

Why:
The white-tailed deer is the foundation of the entire hunting industry. Of active North American hunters, 78 percent hunt whitetails, more than the combined percentages for wild turkey, pheasant, quail, waterfowl, grouse, elk, mule deer and coyotes (survey by Responsive Management and the NSSF, 2008). Yet, at the SHOT Show and other industry gatherings, little information is available on wise stewardship of the whitetail resource and protection of our deer-hunting heritage. QDMA will fill this void with the launching of the Whitetail Report, which will provide outdoor writers, editors and communicators with a yearly health report for whitetails and – by extension – the hunting industry. The Whitetail Report will include useful facts, statistics and science compiled by QDMA in its effort to check the pulse of deer populations throughout North America. The information you gather at the press conference, and the connections you make with QDMA’s expert sources, will provide you with article ideas, valuable reference material, and quotes to use throughout the coming year.

Who:
The Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA) is a nonprofit conservation organization that works to educate and encourage hunters and landowners to practice biologically sound deer and habitat management techniques. Founded in 1988, QDMA has more than 50,000 members in 50 states, Canada and abroad. For more information, visit www.QDMA.com or call (800) 209-3337.

American Deer & Wildlife Alliance Teams with Outdoor Writers

AUSTIN, Texas — The American Deer & Wildlife Alliance (ADWA) announces a new partnership with Hunting and Fishing USA, an online magazine featuring a multitude of writers, editors and resources for sportsmen around the nation. Hunting and Fishing USA reaches a growing audience of nearly 20,000 readers and will work within ADWA to increase its national exposure.

Founded in 2006 by Lillian Zade and Elton Mellum of Fort Collins, Colo., the Hunting and Fishing USA.com creates action and fun for online readers by bringing stories, information, specials and opportunities to sportsmen and women of all ages who love to hunt, fish, or just enjoy the outdoors. For more info, visit www.huntingandfishingusa.com.

“We’re proud to join the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance,” says Mellum. “ADWA uses comprehensive public relations efforts to build awareness for its members’ products and services, and we look forward to broadcasting our efforts through the Alliance.”

“The recognition and support of outdoor writers is essential for us to generate enthusiasm for outdoor sports and to help promote the businesses that work with wildlife everyday,” says ADWA Director of Operations Annie Jones. “We look forward to working with the Hunting and Fishing USA.com and its network of outdoor writers, editors and photographers to grow the industry.”

ADWA combines the benefits of marketing and education to inspire credibility among consumers and unity within the deer and wildlife industry. ADWA partners with companies and non-profit organizations within the industry to promote products, services, membership benefits and overall growth of the industry through education and aggressive public relations. In addition, ADWA supports numerous outdoor educational opportunities for children and is broadcasting public conservation messages to more than 30 million households via the Keith Warren’s Hunting & Outdoor Adventures program airing on the Outdoor Channel.

To learn more about ADWA and the benefits of membership benefits, visit www.deerwildlifealliance.org.

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth of the deer and wildlife industry, and to help educate consumers and the youth on the conservation issues that affect deer and wildlife as well as the industry. For more information on the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, call 877.331.8607 or visit www.deerwildlifealliance.org.

Texas Deer Association Addresses Professional Ag Conference

SAN ANTONIO — Texas Deer Association Executive Director Karl Kinsel was a featured speaker during the recent 79th Annual Meeting of ASFMRA (American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers), held at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel in San Antonio.

As part of the conference, nearly 200 professional farm managers and rural appraisers toured numerous sites in Southwest Texas along the Seco Creek — including the 150-foot-deep Seco Creek Sinkhole in northwestern Medina County — and welcomed a one-hour discussion led by Kinsel, who spoke on the deer industry and wildlife management.

“With so many land management professionals in attendance, this is a great opportunity for TDA to share information regarding the business of habitat and wildlife management and recreational hunting in Texas,” says Kinsel, whose family owns and operated Kinsel Cattle Company in Cotulla, Texas. “Successful agricultural land management and wildlife management are uniquely intertwined. The changing economic and demographic landscapes compel all of us to work together, share ideas and develop new strategies that will ensure we preserve our agricultural heritage.”

In his “State of the Deer Industry” address, Kinsel explained that unprecedented change in American economy and culture is creating new challenges and opportunities for land owners and managers. With domestic and global market forces, technology, alternative fuels, government policy and demographic variables, the agriculture and rural landscapes are changing at an accelerating rate.

The rise of modern game management and funding, explains Kinsel, has created a lucrative alternative in agriculture and land use options. Through professional herd management, habitat management, hunter management and herd monitoring, the deer industry is one of the fastest growing in rural America and can offer economic solutions for land managers in many parts of the country.

Founded in 1929, the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers is a benchmark organization for agricultural resource valuation and farm management. The organization empowers rural and agricultural property economics professionals through technical education and networking and its members provide professional management, valuation, consulting and marketing of the world’s agricultural resources.

The TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through improved habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA publishes a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, which updates TDA members on current legislative and industry news, deer genetics and game management issues.

To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for membership information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.

Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, the Texas Deer Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of Texas deer herds, and to developing ways to improve deer quality in Texas. For more information on the Texas Deer Association, call 210.767.8300 or visit www.texasdeerassociation.com.

MOSSY OAK NOMINATED FOR SEVEN GOLDEN MOOSE AWARDS

WEST POINT, MS - Mossy Oak Productions of West Point, Miss., has received word from Outdoor Channel they have been nominated for seven Golden Moose Awards. The awards will be presented at a reception at the 2009 SHOT Show in Orlando, Fla., in January.

Mossy Oak Productions creates five television series that are broadcast nationally on Outdoor Channel.

Three of the company’s productions received nominations for this year’s awards. Additionally, a Mossy Oak Brand commercial has been nominated.

Nominees include:
- Mossy Oak’s The Obsession Revealed, presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods:
Best Production
Best Turkey Footage
Best Educational Show
Best Graphics
- Browning The Best There Is:
Best Turkey Footage
- Mossy Oak Hunting the Country:
Best Sound Design
- Mossy Oak Brand:
Best Commercial

Mossy Oak Productions began creating outdoor television in 1994 and were one of the pioneers in developing broadcast entertainment for the outdoor enthusiast.

“The outdoor television industry has come a long way in the last 15 years,” Ronnie “Cuz” Strickland, Mossy Oak Senior Vice President of Television and Related Media, said. “When we started there were only a few television shows dedicated to the hunter and fisherman. Now there are literally hundreds of shows being produced. To receive seven nominations, the most we have ever had, for Golden Moose Awards this year is a real honor.”

# # #

Haas Outdoors Inc. is headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, Mossy Oak Interactive, LLC, Nativ Nursery and Mossy Oak Properties.

Texas Legislative Committee Convenes on Deer Industry

SAN ANTONIO — The Joint Select Legislative Committee on the Breeding of White-tailed and Mule Deer recently held its first hearing in Austin, Texas, and members of the Texas Deer Association (TDA) played pivotal roles. The meeting was a historic first for the Texas deer industry and shines a spotlight on the deer industry’s impressive growth and impact on the Texas economy.

State Representative Harvey Hilderbran (R-Kerrville) was elected by fellow committee members to serve as chairman of the 10-person appointed committee. The committee heard testimony from Texas deer industry experts as well as from various authorities across the country. The stated mission of the committee is to review barriers that might prevent the breeding industry from operating in the most efficient, effective manner and investigate opportunities that could improve or enhance the industry in Texas. Other legislators appointed to the committee by Lt. Governor David Dewhurst are Senator Kenneth ‘Kim’ Brimer (R-Fort Worth) and Senator Craig Estes (R-Wichita Falls), House Speaker Tom Craddick appointees are Rep. Hilderbran and Rep. Tracy King (D-Batesville).

“We have overwhelming public support for hunting and deer propagation in Texas, and we have an opportunity with this committee to focus on the deer industry, identify barriers to our growth, reduce land fragmentation and protect our hunting and conservation interests throughout the state,” says Rep. Hilderbran. “I look forward to working with the Texas Deer Association, Texas Wildlife Association and other organizations across the state to move deer breeding forward and to create recommendations which could lead to positive legislation in January.”

“Our committee is working with breeders, hunters, and preservationists to ensure deer breeding continues to benefit all Texans. The impact of deer breeding profits our state’s rural, urban, and suburban areas; last year the industry bolstered over half a billion dollars to our state’s economy” adds Senator Brimer. “We want to make certain our habitat and other natural resources are protected and the industry can continue to develop and prosper in Texas.”

Leading the testimony was Dr. James C. Kroll, co-founder of the Texas Deer Association, as well as founder and current director of the Institute for White-tailed Deer Management and Research Center for The College of Forestry at Stephen F. Austin State University.

“With the unbridled expansion of urban sprawl, American farmers and ranchers are the most endangered species today,” warned Dr. Kroll, who explained the ongoing loss of profitability in traditional agricultural has compelled many landowners to seek out alternative land uses for the land. “Raising deer has become an extremely profitable solution and it only requires a few acres so it’s a lucrative option for land owners of various means throughout Texas.”

The committee questioned Dr. Kroll on topics such as disease research, role of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department within the deer breeding industry, private property land rights, animal testing and other topics. Among the other witnesses to address the committee were: Clayton Wolf of Texas Parks Wildlife Department; Dr. Bob Hillman of Texas Animal Health Commission; Shawn Schafer, executive director of the North American Deer Farmers Association; Kirby Brown of the Texas Wildlife Association, Joe Trammell, president of the Whitetails of Oklahoma; Bob Zaglin, certified wildlife biologist and wildlife coordinator at Southwest Texas Junior College; Dr. Becky Brewer, Oklahoma State Veterinarian, and other industry experts.

As the state’s only non-profit organization solely dedicated to Texas deer, the Texas Deer Association provided strong representation for the industry with Dr. Scott W. Bugai, D.V.M., of Seguin; Joseph Warren Bluntzer Jr. of Lometa, Dr. Richard Cain of St. Jo; and Amanda Lasater of Mason making up nearly one-third of the committee. Dr. Bugai and Bluntzer were appointed to the committee by Governor Rick Perry, Dr. Cain by Lt. Governor David Dewhurst and Lasater was appointed by House Speaker Tom Craddick. Other public appointees to the committee are William Eikenhorst, D.V.M., and Lee Bass.

“Deer breeding accounts for thousands of jobs in small towns across the state, so we are happy to work closely with the committee in developing greater efficiencies within the industry and in creating new opportunities for growth,” says Karl Kinsel, executive director of the Texas Deer Association.

The committee originated through landmark legislation (S.B. 573), authored by Sen. Brimer and sponsored in the House by Rep. Hilderbran in the past 80th Legislative Session, and could have significant implications for the future of the deer breeding industry which generated more than $650 million for the Texas economy last year.

The TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through better habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA produces a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, which updates TDA members on current industry news, deer genetics and game management issues. The TDA also hosts an annual convention and trade show every August featuring fund-raising auctions, a deer auction, golf tournament and other events.

For membership information about the Texas Deer Association, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.

Headquartered in San Antonio, the Texas Deer Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of Texas deer herds, and to developing ways to improve deer quality in Texas. For more information on the Texas Deer Association, call 210.767.8300 or visit www.texasdeerassociation.com.

Texas Deer Association Announces All-New Youth ‘Deer Camp’

SAN ANTONIO — Strengthening its commitment to outdoor education, the Texas Deer Association has announced its support of Outdoor Texas in establishing a summer youth camp dedicated to deer education in 2009. The all-new summer ‘Deer Camp’ will teach young outdoor enthusiasts about whitetail and mule deer in Texas, and is slated to begin July 12, 2009.

The location for the seven-day 2009 Deer Camp is still to be determined, but the curriculum will include the facts, details and theories about whitetail and mule deer and showcase habitat management techniques.

“Outdoor Texas has put into place the needed ingredients to ensure a life-changing experience for many young campers, and we are proud to support and sponsor this all-new youth Deer Camp,” says Karl Kinsel, executive director of the Texas Deer Association. “Whitetail and mule deer are the most popular big game animals in Texas and we want to help educate our young hunters about these amazing animals which have captured the hearts of sportsmen in Texas and across America.”

Based near Columbus, Texas, Outdoor Texas is a new and unique program that provides educational opportunities for young Texans to learn hunting, fresh and saltwater fishing, and other outdoor activities from experienced Texas professionals. The Outdoor Texas Camp staff are all selected on the basis of experience, expertise, communication skills, and a deep desire to work with young outdoor enthusiasts.

The TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through better habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA produces a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, which updates TDA members on current industry news, deer genetics and game management issues.

For membership information about the Texas Deer Association, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.

Headquartered in San Antonio, the Texas Deer Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of Texas deer herds, and to developing ways to improve deer quality in Texas. For more information on the Texas Deer Association, call 210.767.8300 or visit www.texasdeerassociation.com.

American Deer & Wildlife Alliance Hunts Down the Perfect Gift for the Holidays

AUSTIN, Texas – Otis Technology, the newest addition to the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance (ADWA) family, is the leader in gun cleaning technology. Developed for commercial hunters and sportsmen, law enforcement and the military, Otis’ Cleaning Systems are unique in that they clean Breach or Muzzle, in the natural direction of the bullet.

Director of Operations Annie Jones says: “ADWA is very selective when it comes to members, as it’s our top priority to retain credibility with our hunting and shooting enthusiasts. The ADWA audience is an intelligent one, and seeing that the Otis System is known for quality and a lifetime warranty, we’re proud to have their support.”

“The Hardcore Hunter Cleaning System is the ideal holiday gift for the hunter,” says Cara Peebles, Marketing Coordinator at Otis Technology. “It’s designed specifically for hunters, and every camouflage pattern is unique. The American Deer & Wildlife Alliance speaks to a multitude of issues we care about–namely gun rights and education–and Otis respects their outspoken support for our industry.”

The new cleaning System includes Mossy Oak or Realtree camouflage softpack, silent zipper, micro fiber lens cloth and an additional 20-gauge shotgun brush. To learn more about this and other Otis Technology products, please visit www.otisgun.com

Headquartered in Georgetown, Texas, the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth of the deer and wildlife industry, and to help educate consumers and the youth on the conservation issues that effect deer and wildlife as well as the industry. For more information on the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, call 512.331.8618 or visit www.deerwildlifealliance.org.

2009 Best Outdoor Show Awards

The Outdoor Research Media Group has released the 2009 Best Outdoor Show Awards. Unlike other awards and ratings for outdoor programming, Bestoutdoorshow.com has combined most stations airing hunting and fishing programs and came out with the list of the best for 2008. The list is as follows for Division 1 & 2.

Most weeks at the #1 position
Realtree Roadtrips with Michael Waddell

Viewers Choice - This award is simple, Who got the most votes within the 2 divisions
Getting’ Close & North American Safari

Favorite Host(s)
Michael Waddell & Kyle & Jennay Wieter

Best Specialty Show - This is for a show that specializes in one kind of game
Whitetail Freaks and Predator Quest

Best Original Music in an outdoor program
Colt Ford and Uttermost

Best Christian outdoor programming
Spiritual Outdoor Adventures

Originality in Programming - Programs that stand out as being in it’s own style and feel
Get Wild with Cindy Garrison & Wild Outdoors

Best Intro
Huntin’ The World… Southern Style! & Own the Zone

Best Combination Hunting & Fishing Show
Cabela’s Memories in the Field & Spiritual Outdoor Adventures

Best overall Big Game Hunting Show
Realtree Roadtrips w/ Michael Waddell & North American Safari

Best overall Small Game Hunting Show
Pheasants forever & Predator Quest

Support the Sport Award - A show or person who has supported hunting throughout the year
Ted Nugent

Best single archery episode
Archers Choice & Relentless Pursuit

Best single gun episode
Jim Shockey & The Outfitter

Best fishing show
Bill Dance & The Bite TV

Company Bio

The Outdoor Research Media Group is run by Tyler Nutone and currently 53 other media personal. Hitting the phones back in late 2004 The Outdoor Research Media Group started its quest to find what people were watching in outdoor television. After years on the phone and rating shows, they went live with Bestoutdoorshow.com and started taking votes. Now being one of the most recognized and fair rating companies available. The Outdoor Research Media Group will take no money or compensation for website advertising or any other purpose from anyone in the outdoor industry. You can go to www.bestoutdoorshow.com for more information.

Mossy Oak Tops Survey of Professional Guides as the Preferred Camo Choice

WEST POINT, MS - Field & Stream magazine recently conducted a survey of some of the top guides and outfitters in the country to find out what gear they consider to be the best.

Topics included “Best Caliber for Whitetails,” “Best Rifle for Whitetails,” “Best Rifle Scope,” “Best Bow,” and “Best Camouflage Brand.”

Mossy Oak was chosen as the number one preferred camouflage brand over all others getting 39% of the votes. The closest competitor had 23% of the votes. Results were published in the September issue of Field & Stream.

The poll was taken to show readers what the professionals use in their day-to-day operations to help them be successful.

# # #

Haas Outdoors Inc. is headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, Mossy Oak Interactive, LLC, Nativ Nursery and Mossy Oak Properties.

Next Page »