I hope everyone has enjoyed the summer and have gotten their food plots ready for this fall. I’m not going to go into any diatribe on the baiting ban other than it doesn’t make any sense to me. I will re-emphasize that feeding turkeys this winter by just throwing feed (corn) on the ground or in any other feeder, than the approved feeder I have been discussing in previous newsletters, might well get you into trouble with the DNR. I have gotten a lot of messages asking for either a picture of the feeder and/or the plans for building one. The feeders pictured are examples of turkey feeders approved in the Clare County area by the local DNR wildlife law enforcement:
Please, note the 2” X 4” screen wrapped around the feeding pan area that helps make it so the deer can’t get in. If you are unsure of the situation in your area check with the local DNR officers and tell them about what has been approved in Clare County as needs be. Of course, if the No-Baiting Law changes then this won’t be an issue.
At the last North-Central Chapter meeting it was decided to donate to three worthy charities:
- “Shop with a Hero” in the Gladwin County area. Needy kids get to go Christmas shopping with a member of law enforcement or first responder.
- Donations should be directed to Brad Davis at (989)-429-4567.
- A generous donation was awarded to “Tails-A-Waggin” in Marion, Michigan. This is a free pheasant hunt to any active or non-active member of the military and law enforcement. Donations should be directed to (231)-743-6483 or www.preservehunt.com.
- And, another generous donation was awarded to “Living the Dream” in Clare, Michigan. This is one free once of a lifetime hunt to a person of any age who has unique challenges. Donations should be directed to Chad Stearns at Jay’s Sporting Goods; (989)-386-3475.
Also, there will be the 23rd annual North-Central Chapter banquet on March 7, 2020. This year, along with all the other amazing items, 26 gun raffle and various games, they are featuring a tour for two up the north tower of the Mackinaw Bridge. This will be auctioned off during the live auction at the banquet. I understand that advanced bids will be accepted now. For banquet and raffle ticket information, or advanced bids on the north tower tour, please contact either Brad Davis at (989)-429-4567, or Gary Maas at (989)-588-1193.
Let me emphasize that the Mackinaw tower tour is a once in a lifetime thing, so if you’re interested do not let this slip by you.
The corn for winter turkey feeding program will be available after hunting season. The North-Central Chapter of Clare continues this program to members of MWTHA. Their annual banquet is their only fund raiser for this program, so if you can, please give them your support. Buy a raffle ticket and/or come to the banquet. It’s a terrific time for the kids, the ladies and of course the guys. If you have something nice you wish to donate anything to the banquet please contact me, Gary Maas, at 989-588-1193.
If you wish to become a member please fill out the membership form enclosed. NOTE: Memberships are from March 1 of the current year to March 1 the next year. You will also get that year’s patch with your membership. This is the 2020 patch: Wow! I know!
Lastly, there will be a State Chapter general membership meeting at Jay’s Outback room on Sunday, February 9, 2020 at 12:00. Non-members are welcome.
