Hagadone News Network

A mischievous kitten gone bad

This has happened twice to me during my lifetime. A kitten has gotten away from its owner and climbed a large tree in a campground.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor knowledge passed down through generations

Life was a blast for a youngster when growing up in the great Columbia Basin of Eastern Washington, this being in the 1950s and 1960s. Dad, Max Clay, was a man of the outdoors and eager to share his knowledge with his friends and family members.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

The dangers of mixing chemicals

Well, there isn’t much need to mix chemicals in the slow-down operation of a population of starlings. Although this isn’t always true. Sometimes a poison is used, if the population is causing great distress on one or neighboring farms.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native species: Starling

City folk might not notice these problem birds as much those folks on the farm, but there is a reason. Hidden among the thousands on a city street, it is difficult to see the other thousands on the same street, along with thousands of pigeons and otherwise messy birds.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Youthful ventures in carp fishing

Catching carp in the 1950s and 60s was great fun for young boys growing up in the Moses Lake area. Of course, so was hunting pheasants and other birds.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive species: Carp

Of course, carp is an invasive species, but as with the pheasant, the common carp was welcomed with open arms.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

What to do when one endangered species affects another?

Received last Thursday: “Dennis: I really enjoyed your invasive and native species series in the CBH this last couple of weeks. Very educational and informative.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Multi-season hunt deadline March 31

Deer and elk hunters have until March 31 to enter their names into the drawing for a 2020 multi-season tag.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive species: Walleye

Is walleye a game fish or an invasive species? My friends thought we were in seventh-heaven when we began catching and eating walleye.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

My first and only pig hunt

The National Shooting Sports Foundation urged Congress to celebrate the outdoor activities of hunting and fishing while emphasizing conservation on a special day each year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native species: Wild pigs

Some years ago, perhaps 20 or 25 by now, the Alberta, Canada, tourism people called and wanted me to suggest three other writers to travel to Alberta and explore some outdoor experiences they offer.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Crayfish, think shrimp and lobster

There is much more to say about crayfish. This was realized after yesterday’s column was sent for publication. Yes, there are people who don’t like the taste, but there are also people who don’t like the taste of shrimp or lobster.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native: Crawfish

Friday we discussed one of my favorite invasive species, the Eurasian collared dove. Today we will discuss another of my favorites, which is worth pursuing, the crawfish. They are also known as crayfish crawdads, freshwater lobsters and mudbugs.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Sunday is the big day

Sunday, March 1, is the fishing opener for several Columbia Basin waters. They include: Burke, Upper Caliche, Cascade, Crystal, Cup, Dry Falls, Dusty, Lenice, Lenore, Martha, Merry, Nunnally and Quincy lakes.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native: Eurasian collared dove

Today we discuss one of my favorite invasive species, the Eurasian collared dove.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native: Pigeon

Sometimes in the depth of sleep, my mind will wander through the previous day’s activities. More often than not, those activities will cause me a warm feeling, cuddling me into a deep and more peaceful sleep.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native: house sparrow

Unfortunately, but sometimes fortunately, we have invasive species of all types in our lives. Yes, right here in the Columbia Basin of Eastern Washington.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Invasive vs. native: Why it is dangerous to release non-native animals

Inspiration for columns arrive at my desk from many different angles. Some, of course, develop in my own mind. Others are suggested by readers, family and friends.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Final thoughts about backyard education

This week has been a welcome chance to reflect on the backyard, as in everyone’s backyard. We have discussed how anyone’s backyard is a place to teach a youth outdoor skills.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Backyard and beyond

Many an outdoor education began in the backyard. How to build a fire, how to tie knots, how to properly use a knife, survival skills, how to erect a tent were all part of my backyard schooling.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Backyards can offer a glimpse into the Great Outdoors

The backyard, every backyard, can be the entrance to the outdoors for everyone. Yesterday we discussed my participation in the Great Backyard Bird Count with embarrassing results for me.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

In my backyard

This was the weekend of the 2020 Great Backyard Bird Count. It was my duty to conduct at least one count. The rules state the minimum time for a count was 15 minutes. The location could be anywhere desired, most common was a backyard, thus the name.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Final thoughts for a successful bird count

The 2020 Great Backyard Bird Count has started. It will continue for the next three days, plus today.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Count begins tomorrow

The 2020 Great Backyard Bird Count begins tomorrow, Friday, Feb. 14 and continues through Monday, Feb. 17. The object is to count the birds in a certain area, such as a backyard, for a minimum of 15 minutes, but the time could be longer, such as for 30, 60 or …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Bird count educational

The Great Backyard Bird Count will take place this weekend, Feb. 14, 15, 16 and 17. This is a world-wide event with the final count used by scientists to get a “snapshot” of the location of bird species throughout the world.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Bird Count next weekend

Watching birds and other wildlife has been instilled into my life by my parents. Next weekend is a special event for all birdwatchers, also simply called birders.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Final thoughts about the 2020 SHOT Show

The SHOT Show has changed over the years. When we started attending in the early 1990s, the show would change locations every year. One year in New Orleans, another in Dallas, Orlando, Atlanta and Las Vegas.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show allows new products to shine

One purpose of the SHOT Show is to allow manufactures to show off their new products. This is true when the press and buyers head to the range on the day before the show begins.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show allows new products to shine

One purpose of the SHOT Show is to allow manufactures to show off their new products. This is true when the press and buyers head to the range on the day before the show begins.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

More thoughts about the 2020 SHOT Show

This column has established the annual SHOT Show is huge, with thousands of exhibitors, thousands of buyers and thousands of press members in attendance. Walking each aisle would cover a distance of 12.5 miles.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Day at the range

The SHOT Show has become an annual event for Garnet and me. We have made this trip for 25-plus years. This year the dates of SHOT were Jan. 21 through 24, a Tuesday through Friday.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Meeting celebs at the SHOT Show

The Shooting Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show, known as the SHOT Show, is aimed at the hunting and shooting industry.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

How to make the most of the enormous SHOT Show

The SHOT Show is enormous. As reported recently: The show covered about 692,000 square feet of exhibit space. If a person walked down each aisle of the show, they would cover a distance of 12.5 miles.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show impressive

It is named the SHOT Show, which stands for Shooting Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show. The show is owned and sponsored by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, which is an American national trade association for the firearms industry.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Last of the name series

Today we finish our series about animal and bird names, with more group names.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Animal and bird group names

We have been exploring the names of animal and birds for a couple of days, so it is appropriate to look at some names for a group of animals or birds. Actually, a couple of group names have been mentioned, but we will cover more.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Animal and bird names are entertaining

Animal and bird names have always been fun and entertaining to me. Of more importance, you, the reader, seem to enjoy the names, also.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Elk stew my way

The digital pressure cooker is used often at my house, but so is the slow cooker. We have several slow cookers of different sizes.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Cooking the harvest

We have been discussing outdoor wintertime activities for outdoor-minded people during the past few weeks. Today and tomorrow we examine another activity designed to be conducted during cold weather: Cooking the harvest of our outdoor efforts.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Elk stew and elk roast

Wintertime activities for outdoor-minded people include cooking the harvest.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

In search of the proper load

The goal of a person, who reloads rifle ammunition for hunting, is to find the perfect load for the rifle she/he is using. Indeed, each rifle is different and, therefore, a different load may be needed to attain the best round for each.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

A time for reloading

This is the slow time of year for outdoor-minded people. As mentioned before, we have anglers polishing and sharpening hooks in their tackle boxes.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

What to consider as a fly-angler

Fishing line maintenance was mentioned at the end of yesterday’s column. A couple more thoughts about making sure the fishing line you are using is up-to-date and continues to be the strength you desire.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

More first-of-year ideas

Yesterday we briefly mentioned checking fishing gear as a wintertime activity. One sentence talked about polishing lures, plus replacing and sharpening hooks.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Winter, what winter?

The current weather forecast indicates we have eight days of above freezing days and four above freezing nights before us. The temperatures afterwards show temperatures in the high 20s or low 30s with only three in the teens. For Heaven sakes, weeds are beginning to come up in Garnet’s flower …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

2020 is here

We have spent a few days discussing what happened in 2019, but now we are in a new year. This is an exciting time for me.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Reflecting again on 2019

This was a busy outdoor year with camping, hunting, birding, fishing, wildlife viewing, boating, outdoor cooking, time at the shooting range and more on the agenda.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Looking back at 2019

Looking back at the past year’s columns is healthy for me. This allows me to think hard about the reason why a specific column was written. In turn, this allows me to consider if the subject is worthy of repeating, while using a different angle.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Some 2019 hunting seasons closing

Seasons continue

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Last minute gift ideas continued

Yes, there is time for some last-minute shopping. In fact, there are people out there who wait until Christmas Eve to begin their Christmas shopping.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Last minute gift ideas for outdoor-minded people

OK, we are right down to the nitty-gritty of last-minute Christmas gift purchases, with only today and tomorrow available. Here are some suggestions.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Still no local circle

A reminder: Continuing seasons

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Using the right hook is indispensible to anglers

We have been discussing the amount of fishing items available to any angler in a sporting goods store. There are thousands of such items.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Fishing reels continued

There appears to be as many fishing reels as there are fishing rods. Of course, there is one reel per rod, but one reel could be used with one rod and then switched to another rod on another day.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Gifts for the beginning angler

Angling is a sport with thousands of gadgets. Some would say this is an understatement. These two sentences become completely believable and understandable when walking down the fishing aisle of any sporting goods store.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Cutting edge gifts

Knives are an essential tool for any person wanting to spend time in the outdoors. Knives can save lives, too.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Gifting a rifle

Picking the appropriate rifle for a first-time hunter is even more complicated than gifting a shotgun. A rifle will be used to hunt big game, such as deer and elk.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Firearms as a Christmas gift

Giving a firearm as a gift can be a tricky procedure. Usually this type of gift is from one family member to another, such as parents to daughter or son, uncle to nephew or grandpa to granddaughter.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Christmas gift ideas Part 1

This column is approaching 30 years of service to Columbia Basin readers. Every year at least one reader, but most often several, asks about what to give the outdoor-minded person who has everything.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 4 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Butchering big game

Butchering big game is simply making small pieces of meat out of one large piece of meat. Years ago, perhaps 30 or more, an older hunter provided instruction about butchering a deer he had taken. He instructed and my duty was the butchering.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 7 YEARS AGO

Youth hunting weekend is here

Youth, hunters under 16 years of age and accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old, are in the spotlight this weekend. There are several hunts available to them, including: duck, goose, coot, Sept. 17 and 18; pheasant, quail and partridge: Sept. 17 and 18.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Nat Washington discusses homesteading

Grant County history E-mail from Cheryl

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Limits suspended on Park and Blue lakes

Blue and Park lakes in the Sun Lakes State Park area will be going through a rehabilitation procedure using rotenone. Therefore, Fish and Wildlife is allowing the public to harvest as many fish as possible.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

2016 Grant County hunting prospects

This is a multi-part series about the 2016 Washington hunting prospects.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Hunting season is open for some

Hunters are celebrating with the opening of some hunting seasons. The booming of shotguns will be heard around the Columbia Basin with the opening of dove season. Also opening yesterday were the grouse and archery deer seasons. Read on for a recap of some of these seasons.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Nat Washington's history continues

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Hazing operation successful

A month-long effort to scare deer from a series of alfalfa fields has been deemed a success. The basics of this endeavor were covered a month ago in this column.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

More info from the 1980 Grant County Fair

OK folks, I’m not ready to let go of the fair, this year’s fair and past fairs. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Grouse, dove and archery deer seasons open Thursday

September marks the beginning of several hunting seasons. Yes, a few are already open, but September marks the beginning of even more seasons. The hunting dates and equipment allowed is a bit complicated. This is the reason reading the various regulation pamphlets is necessary. Actually, instead of just reading them, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Free fishing while license sales are suspended

Fish and Wildlife is offering “free fishing” days through Tuesday while the agency’s license sales system is down.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Fair history barn to expand function

The Grant County Fair History Barn has been a hit-and-miss affair for some years now. Three of us have taken the barn under our wing for the past few years, but our efforts have not allowed our county’s history to shine.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons begin in less than two weeks

Mourning dove

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Humor lightens the darker side of life

While an apple a day will keep the doctor away, a chuckle a day lightens the load of the burden of life. Humor has been a large part of my life and my writing.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

It's fair and rodeo time again

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Family stories full of interesting fun

So there I was, minding my own business, when…my mind began working overtime.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

South Dam name changed to Dry Falls Dam

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Feral pig removal effort begins

What, feral pigs in Grant County? Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Hazing deer a nighttime affair

This is the last of a two-part series about hazing deer in private alfalfa fields.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

South Dam name changed to Dry Falls Dam

Last week’s mystery photo Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Using master hunters to hazing deer saves money

This is a two-part series about hazing off of private alfalfa fields.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

License fee increases possible

Fish and Wildlife has scheduled six public workshops in early August for the public to comment on the department’s proposals to expand conservation programs and provide more fishing and hunting opportunities through a combination of state funding and license fee increases.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Moses Lake stays connected to Fairchild Air Force Base

Workhorse: A dependable person who completes a lot of work. Also a dependable machine used to accomplish a lot of work.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Washington tells of early Columbia Basin history

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Deadlines loom for hunting opportunities

The deadline for the raffle permit hunts is today, July 15. The tickets must be purchased from a vendor, such as your favorite sporting goods store.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Priority of eating supper conflicts with fishing time

Dennis note: Ah…Time for a little humor. This “Rich and I” story was first published in the Columbia Basin Herald in the early 1990s. It is being proofed and polished for inclusion in the upcoming book, “The Adventures of Rich and I.” Enjoy.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Salmon limits raised, sockeye fishery opens

Salmon fishing is heating up on the upper Columbia River.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Time at Conconully fun, relaxing

Computers save the old activity of digging through maps to figure out a route, distance and time needed to travel from Point A to Point B. Such was the case when friend, Bill Witt, suggested a camping trip to Conconully State Park a few months ago.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Gambling to benefit big game with raffle hunts

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Ground observers watch for enemy planes

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Learn about survival and live

After reading the past two parts to this series and columns about survival in past years, readers are sure to realize passing along information about survival skills are important to me. This is true, of course, as survival information may save a life.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Bits and Pieces: Polar Pantry offered 16 flavors of ice cream

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Special hunt permit results available

Just in case you haven’t found out yet, the results of the 2016 hunt permit draw are available online. Well maybe. The fish and wildlife website has been down for a while and not all of the pages are available.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Proper equipment essential to survival

This is the second of a three-part series about survival skills.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Don't touch young wildlife

Seeing a young deer, elk or other species of wildlife along and just standing alone pulls on heartstrings. But, you must, repeat, you must, not touch the animal. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Years have passed, but the feeling was the same

My, my has it really been 41 years? No, it has been longer. My Army career began on Feb. 1, 1966. Fellow classmate, Richard Soden, and I joined together and headed off to Basic Training at Fort Ord, CA. We were sent to Fort Sill, OK for our advanced training.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Free Fishing Weekend is here

Here is a chance to take the family fishing. Plus Mom and Dad can fish, even if they don’t have a current fishing license. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Survival skills a matter of life and death for some

This is the first of a three-part series about survival skills.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Moose on the loose

Linnette Jones called me on Saturday. She wanted my e-mail address in order to send me a photo of a moose she saw earlier in the day.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Nat Washington remembers

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Quest for comb becomes complicated

So there I was, minding my own business, when …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Applicants for non-hunted species and waterfowl groups wanted

Fish and wildlife is responsible for more wildlife species than most of us realize. If the common grasshopper became endangered, they would most likely become involved in their wellbeing and habitat. Suppose this will never happen. Now the department is looking for applicants to, well, read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

First camping trip of the year invigorating

Garnet and I are off to a slow start this camping season. We had made reservations in January for a four-night stay in March and again in April, but our best plans needed to be adjusted due to family matters. We finally made it to Site 23 in Potholes State …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Raffle permit deadline July 15

The special hunt permit deadline has passed. However, we have another drawing deadline coming up in about 10 weeks. We will mention this deadline from time to time in the future, but we want to give some more details today.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Homeschooler hike always exciting

The call from Lisa Porter was similar to the ones of the past three years. She wanted to coordinate a spring hike for the local homeschoolers.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Big catfish hit hooks

Last week we featured a photo of 75-year-old Damien Martinez with a 22 pound catfish caught in the Potholes Canal. We now have word of a 31 pound catfish caught in Soda Lake, which is part of the Potholes Canal.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Attending the 2016 NOWA conference

This is the second of a two-part series about attending the 2016 Northwest Outdoor Writers’ Conference.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Vista Cup demonstration of location history

This is the continuation of a multi-part series about the past and present location of various businesses in Moses Lake, encouraged by a recent CBH article about visiting all of the local restaurants. Plus a letter to the editor, questioning some of the locations.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

May 18 deadline for special hunt permits

This is an important for big game hunters. The new big game pamphlet needs to be studied front cover to back cover. Just 13 days left to apply. Read on

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

NOWA conference informative

This is a two-part series about attending the annual Northwest Outdoor Writers’ Conference.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Bits and Pieces

This is a multi-part series about the past and present location of various businesses in Moses Lake, encouraged by a recent CBH article about visiting all of the local restaurants. Plus a letter to the editor, questioning some of the locations. Readers will find all parties may be correct at …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Results of the opening day of lowland lake fishing

Fish and Wildlife has reported the results of last Saturday’s opening day of the fishing. The results were disappointing to some, but others were well satisfied.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Processing walleye wings, cheeks, ribs and eggs

This is the second part of a two-part series about processing walleye.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Opening day of lowland lake fishing tomorrow

This is it…the big weekend, with many Columbia Basin lakes opening tomorrow morning at 12:01 a.m. Although many Basin lakes are open year round and some open on March1 and still more on April 1, this is what most anglers call the opener.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Processing a limit of walleye

This is the first of a two-part series about cleaning walleye.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Spring turkey season opens today

The spring turkey season is now open as of this morning, Friday, April 15, at 5:48 a.m. The season will continue through May 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Spring turkey season opens one week from today

The spring turkey season will open next Friday, April 15, at 5:48 a.m. The season will continue through May 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Fresh News From MarDon

This is the last of a two-part series about a four-night stay at Cottage 4.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Purchase new license before wetting a line

This is a big weekend in the outdoor world. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Anonymous reader has suggestion for Terry Toland

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Potholes remains refreshing

This is the first of a two-part series about a four-night stay at Cottage 4.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Child abduction mystery in 1967: man asks for help finding clues to his origins

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Youth turkey season next weekend

The youth turkey hunting season will begin next weekend, April 2 and 3. This season is open statewide. Each youth hunter must be accompanied by an adult who is not hunting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Walleye wings worth salvaging

The subject of cooking walleye wings was discussed in this column during the December CBH Sunday edition. The wings are found on the breast or chest of the fish. Place the fish on its back after removing the two fillets from the sides. There are four fins near the head; …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Mae enjoys life with family and friends

The Grant County Historical Society has compiled several volumes of Grant County history. The books are available for purchase at the Historical Society Museum gift shop in Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Several springtime thoughts running through my mind

This is a great time of the year. The Columbia Basin is awakening to a fresh and new springtime. The lawns are turning green and some landowners are mowing on a regular basis.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Turkey hunting clinics offered

Fish and Wildlife’s Hunter Education Division will host free turkey hunting clinics around the state before the April 15 spring turkey season opener. Fish and Wildlife staff will teach these hunting clinics with assistance from Hunter Education Instructors, Master Hunters, and members of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Tragedy avoided in Mae's life

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Volunteering warms my heart

Recently several of my family members were communicating on the internet, when the subject of different animal parts was discussed. We talked about waddle, wattle, dewlap and snood.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Upper Caliche and Martha lakes report near limits on opener

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Mae Higashiyama marks 30 years in Quincy

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Wild game meals prove educational

There are times when a simple act, sharing a lunch for example, can lead to days of educational information for several people. Such a situation appeared recently when participating in a damage control hunt.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Feral pig study underway

Fish and Wildlife has a special study underway to eradicate feral pigs in a portion of the Desert Wildlife Unit. We are told there may be just one or two pigs causing the worry.Be sure, we do not want to have feral (wild) pigs become established in the Columbia Basin …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

I'm blaming Papa Joe Wiggs and Ted Nugent

The mission involved hazing pesky elk from certain orchards in an area south of Wenatchee. These critters can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage if not trained to stay away.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

First fishing opener only 11 days away

Many Columbia Basin waters are open all year long. However, others have a structured season. The first fishing opener is March 1, just 11 days away.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Nugent assists local Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Banquet

Tim Stiens, a member of the local Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation banquet committee, contacted me in early January. A guitar signed by Ted Nugent had been auctioned at the local National Rifle Association Banquet. Nugent has signed many of these guitars to be auctioned and raise money at the many …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Big Game Hunting Pamphlet contest

Fish and Wildlife is accepting photos for the 2016 Big Game Hunting Pamphlet Cover Photo Contest. This year’s theme is “Finding Inner Strength,” a tribute to hunters with disabilities, in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Relocation camp life not all bad for Mae Higashiyama

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

It began 25 years ago, but who's counting

Feb. 13, 1991 was a special day for me. The first weekly outdoors column began on this day with my name on it. Forgive me, as I puff my chest a bit, but 52 columns a year for 25 years comes out to an even 1,300.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Spring hunting in sights

Just when hunters were ready to put the rifles and shotguns away, more hunting seasons are on the horizon.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

World War II changed life for Mae Higashiyama

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show full of information

The facts as told by the National Shooting Sports Foundation: “The SHOT Show is the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show and Conference for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting accessories industry.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Waterfowl seasons ending; hunter reports due

Waterfowl seasons will close on Jan. 31

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show again produces excitement

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

School day memories of Mae Higashiyama

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Hunter reports due; waterfowl seasons ending

The deadline is January 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Interesting outdoor facts

Facts are facts. Sometimes a listing of facts about the outdoors can be interesting and educational. Check out these facts, collected from various sources.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Soap Lake Food Bank meeting next week

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Quail population in good shape

Three of us headed to the Davenport and chased quail on Wednesday. Bill Green and Bill Witt, both of Ephrata, and I arrived in the hunt area around 10:30 and spotted birds right away.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Quail hunts exhilarating

This has been a fine and productive hunting season. Time spent with new and old hunting buddies is always precious. Notching a tag or dropping a bird is not necessary for a successful hunt, but taking game animals and birds is a valuable addition to any hunting season.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

The history of Mae Higashiyama

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons winding down

The hunting seasons are winding down, but a few seasons continue. They include: Goose, which is open Saturdays, Sundays, & Wednesdays only, except on Jan. 18 and every day Jan. 25 through 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Help out when in the outdoors

My first column each year is a call to arms. This means calling on the readers to give back to the outdoors. Doing so isn’t difficult.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Goose carcasses cause reader concern

A reader recently called with a concern about wasting game birds. He pulled into a parking lot and noticed a pile of goose carcasses. The number of birds was not indicated, but the daily limit is four with a possession limit of 12.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Kallenberger completes early history of Krupp

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Dennis Clay's end of year review

This has been an extraordinary year, full of sorrow at times, but full of many fine times, too.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Lopez tags first Washington turkey

It has been and continues to be a great hunting year for Rudy Lopez of Spokane Valley. He has notched his first elk tag, a deer tag, he shot his first pheasant recently and has bagged several quail. On Dec. 14 he tagged his first Washington turkey during a turkey …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Thoughts during December 2015

All of a sudden it’s mid December. How did this happen? Well, it happens every year, I know, but this year seems different, perhaps special. The reason isn’t apparent at this time, yet the feeling is evident, noticeable and obvious.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

The Packie War continues

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hut is battleground for Packie War

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Walleye wings provide gourmet eating

Walleye have wings? Yes they do. At least there is a part of the walleye known as wings, but in the past anglers have called them chins and fins, bat wings, rabbit ears and pecks.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Late fall general turkey season open

Anyone with an un-notched turkey tag in their pocket has a few more days to notch the tag. The late fall general turkey season opened on Nov. 20 and continues through Dec. 15 in Game Management Units 105 through 154 and 162 through 186. The limit is one turkey of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Cooperative efforts help hunters notch tags

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Some big game hunting seasons continue

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Hunting excitement continues

This is the first of a two-part series about the 2015 elk season.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 8 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Danyelle notches tag on first elk hunt

The hills east of Ellensburg are steep, seemingly straight up and down, depending upon where a hunter is standing. Danyelle Cavadini knows the feeling of hiking these hills after her first elk hunt recently.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Deer camp continues to be an excellent experience

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Jim Wilmot played drums in the Jack Decker Band

Appearing in the Oct. 16 edition of the CBH was an article from the Feb. 14, 1952 edition of the CBH about an upcoming dance.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Bighorn sheep parade for viewers

The three of us, Garnet, Dennis and Brenda (our four-pound Chihuahua), headed for the Davenport area for a deer scouting/turkey hunting day trip on Oct. 5.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

2015 deer camp exceptional

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Jack Reiter opens new appliance store in 1952

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Opening-day report still not available

As of this writing, Thursday, Oct. 29, Fish and Wildlife could not provide a report of the results of the opening weekend of deer, duck, goose or the other hunting seasons.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

More survival tips for big game hunters

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Kason scores big with first deer

As of this writing, Thursday, Oct. 22, Fish and Wildlife could not provide a report of the results of the opening weekend of deer, duck, goose or the other hunting seasons.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

B-52 testing progresses in 1952

The Boeing Airplane Company used Larson Air Force Base for some of the B-52 testing, but before the bomber’s first flight, there was ground testing at Boeing Field in Seattle. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Survival tips for big game hunters

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Tomorrow is the big day

Tomorrow is the opener for several hunting seasons. We wish all hunts a safe and successful outing. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

No income tax for Farm-in-a-Day

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

General hunting questions continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Modern firearm deer season one week away

The modern firearm deer season begins on Saturday, Oct. 17, one week from tomorrow. A bunch of deer hunters are excited about this event, including me.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Wage increase at Grand Coulee Dam in 1952

E-mail from Cheryl

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Jerry has passed

We knew each other during our high school days, but we weren’t close friends at the time. After high school we went our separate ways, as we traveled and lived in different parts of the United States and the world.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Quail, chukar and Hun seasons open tomorrow

Think about this: A hunter could head for the field tomorrow and shoot 10 quail, six chukar and six Huns, plus 15 mourning doves. This is a bunch of hunting, folks. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

General hunting questions

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Fall is a busy time for outdoor-minded people

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting prospects continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

General deer season to open one month from yesterday

Modern firearm deer hunters are getting excited about the upcoming deer season, which is scheduled to open one month from yesterday, Saturday, Oct. 17.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting prospects continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Dove season has strong beginning

Although we have not received an official opening day of dove season results, reports have reached this desk indicating the opening was strong. Reports of limits, including a mixed bag of mourning doves and Eurasian collared doves.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

District 5 Deer hunting prospects

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

No info on hunting results available

It is always a priority of this column to provide the results of a recently opened hunting season as soon as possible. The results of Tuesday’s opening seasons are not available as of this writing.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Hunting prospects for deer and elk

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

50 years, it's been 50 years

The Moses Lake High School Great Class of 1965 will hold a class reunion this weekend. This is the big one, the big five zero.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Wildfires always frightening, but now deadly, too

Wildfires have always been a frightening concern, but now the several fires in Washington State have turned deadly as well. We think of the heartbreak involved with the loss of life, but also with the loss of structures and animals, cattle, horses and pets.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Upcoming hunting seasons cause excitement

The night before the opening day of a hunting season is reminiscent of the night before Christmas during my youth. There is excitement in the air at my house.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

In shape for the Great Class reunion

This is the first of a two-part series about reaching the goal of a weight-loss diet.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

First fish for Becca

It is always fun to report a person's first fish, no matter their age. Becca Mortensen, Spokane, and her boyfriend, Nate Jolls, headed for West Medical Lake on July 25.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

David Grant Medical Center impressive

This is the last of a three-part series about an honorary commander visit to Travis Air Force Base.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Extra planning required for hunting seasons

Let it rain, as soon as the wheat harvest is over and the winter wheat is above ground. Until we get rain and the fire danger subsides we can look at closures of our traditional hunting areas. The following is from Fish and Wildlife. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Second day of Travis visit reveals hard-working airmen

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Hunting opportunity deadline approaching

Not all Columbia Basin hunters are interested in hunting in Okanogan County, but there are enough to warrant letting them know about the following opportunity. Actually, others may be interested after this. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Trip to Travis Air Force Base educational

The e-mail arrived at my inbox on Feb. 6 at 11: 49 a.m.:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Hunter education training needed by most first-time hunters

Each year there are people who want to hunt, but are not allowed because they didn't complete a Hunter Education Course. But there is a way to complete the course. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Thoughts on the weather, reunions and hunting season

Not long ago, a few days at most, I began thinking about ... well lots of things.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Deadline for hunting opportunity in Okanogan County Aug. 14

Eighteen lucky hunters will have an opportunity to hunt for deer this fall on the 6,000-acre Charles and Mary Eder unit of the Scotch Creek Wildlife Area in northeastern Okanogan County.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Odds and ends of the past year

There are times when life seems to be a jumble of odds and ends. These odds and ends come in various forms, some obvious, apparent and evident, while others are obscure, vague and unclear.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Fireworks a danger to wildlife and humans, too

It is difficult to understand why fireworks haven't been banned this year. We aren't talking about the major fireworks by the city, but the fireworks in the rest of the city and in the county have us worried this year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Hot weather causes change in normal behavior

Baby, it's still hot outside. A check of future weather forecasts indicate we will experience above 90-degree temperatures through July 15, with five days above 100 and the rest 96 or above.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Fire prevention front and center

Again we are hammering fire prevention. This time it is Fish and Wildlife placing restrictions on the lands they control.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

We'll-do-it idea may work today

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

More hot weather on the way

Sometimes it is best to simply stay inside. Temperatures exceeding 100 degrees are due in the Columbia Basin beginning tomorrow. The forecasters on the Spokane television stations have been talking about temperatures of 101 degrees for a day or two, but Moses Lake and other Basin towns are in for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Results of special permit drawing available online

The results of the big game special permit drawings are now available online. Go to: http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/permits/ and click on "Check your special permit drawing results."

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Raffle Permit deadline looms

Fish and Wildlife offers a number of hunts each year by raffle. There is no limit on the number of tickets a person may purchase. The deer, elk, moose and mountain goat tickets are $6 each. Bighorn sheep tickets are $11.50 and Multi-species tickets are $17 per ticket for three-species …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Always have a plan in the outdoors

First of all I don't plan to ever become lost. After all, helicopter pilots never become lost. They may be disoriented for a while, but never lost.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Learn and then teach survival in the Great Outdoors

Learn survival skills for the Great Outdoors, because it may save your life. Teach your children outdoor survival skills, because it may save their lives.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Two days left in the 2015 spring turkey season

OK, this is it, right down to the last weekend of the spring turkey season for this year. Sunday is the last day of the season.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Sharpening company producing survival tools

The Arkansas Stone is well known throughout the outdoor world as a great sharpening tool. The company making the stone, Smith's, is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas and has been in business since 1886, making it 129 years old this year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

More travel trailer tips

Our Hideout travel trailer is a gem. It is the correct size for my wife, Garnet, and me to attach to the Dodge Ram, drive to the campsite, maneuver into the camping spot and set up.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Special hunt permit deadline is May 20

My hunting buddies and I are studying the 2015 Big Game pamphlet to determine which hunts are our favorites for the fall season. The deadline is May 20, about 12 days from today. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Safford notches turkey tag

Caiden Safford, 15, of Moses Lake, shot his first turkey with his Grandpa Ray Safford at Jump Off Joe Lake near Chewelah during the youth hunt on April 4. Caiden was using Browning 12 gauge for the hunt. The hunter is a student at Moses Lake High School.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

New Hunting Pamphlet out; time to study

The 2015 Big Game Hunting Seasons & Regulations Pamphlet has been published. I have not been able to find it at any of the sporting goods stores, yet.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Perseverance helps when on a diet

This is the last of a three-part series about dieting tips.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Dieting is no picnic

This is the second of a three-part series about dieting tips.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Reasons for wanting to lose weight important

This is the first in a two-part series about helping outdoor-minded people lose weight.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Youth turkey season tomorrow and Sunday

The spring youth turkey season is open for a two-day run, tomorrow and Sunday, April 4 and 5. This is an opportunity which should not be missed.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Day trip on the agenda

A day trip is possible at any time in our household. My wife, Garnet, might stroll into the kitchen and pour a cup of coffee and ask, "What do we have planned for today?"

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Crane Festival dominates weekend activities

The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival begins today and continues through Sunday. If you have never participated in this annual event, now is the time.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Basin hikes varied, sand dunes hike a bit strenuous

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Hikes provide exercise while dieting

This is the first in a series about day hikes in the Greater Columbia Basin area.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

State fish art contest deadline March 31

Heads up educators - the State Fish Art Contest deadline is March 31. This allows three weeks to pass along the information about the contest to your students.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Basin anglers successful

Anglers around the Columbia Basin have been successful in recent days. Martha Lake was the only water with partial failure.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Y.O.U. Banquet two weeks away

The Fifth Annual Y.O.U. Banquet on schedule for Feb. 28, just two weeks from tomorrow, at the Best Western Lake Front Inn.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Thoughts on 24 years of Clay Feats

Anniversaries are interesting. By definition an anniversary is the annual or yearly return of the date of an event. A couple is married and on the same day in the following year, they celebrate their first anniversary and so on, year after year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Three rules for new husbands

So there I was, minding my own business, when ...

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

A legend passes

Charles Theodore Buck passed away last Friday, Feb. 6. He was a marvelous man. We became friends after I began writing stories and columns about the Great Outdoors 30 years ago.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show full of info

This is the last of a two-part series about the 2015 Shooting Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show in Las Vegas.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Annual SHOT Show trip enlightening, educational

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons winding down

Hunters are looking at the last days of the hunting seasons for this year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Most Wanapum Reservoir open, some parts remain closed

Good news for those who use Wanapum Reservoir for recreation. Most of the Wanapum Reservoir has reopened for public use, but some areas have not. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Most Wanapum Reservoir open, some parts remain closed

Good news for those who use Wanapum Reservoir for recreation. Most of the Wanapum Reservoir has reopened for public use, but some areas have not. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Give back remains theme for first column

The paper coffee cup was standing on the snow-covered road as if the owner had opened the door and set it in place. This piece of litter was not thrown, helter-skelter, out of a window. This was an intentional act, no doubt.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Stadshaug brings home two

Harold Stadshaug, a classmate from the Moses Lake High School Great Class of 1965 and now living in Yakima, fished the Pacific a few months ago and caught...well here is his side of the story:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Yo-Yos were important toys in the 1950s

When was the last time you worked a yo-yo? They were important toys in the 1950s, with both boys and girls learning and mastering as many tricks as possible. Moses Lake even had a city championship as did Washington State. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

An angler enjoys time in the Great Outdoors

Tera's big catch; following in the steps of Hemingway

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Christmas shopping for the outdoor-minded person

This is the first of a two-part series about Christmas gifts.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Christmas shopping for the outdoor-minded person

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

An angler enjoys time in the Great Outdoors

Tera's big catch; following in the steps of Hemingway

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Irrigation District election next Tuesday

Yes, this is the last week we will discuss this matter this year. The United States Postal Service does not guarantee every piece of mail dropped into a mail drop box will be postmarked.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Spotting wildlife difficult at times

Bill Witt was driving my Dodge Ram as I scanned the landscape from the passenger seat. We were looking for elk east of the town of Kittitas. Movement was noticed and three white rumps spotted.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Spotting wildlife difficult at times

Bill Witt was driving my Dodge Ram as I scanned the landscape from the passenger seat. We were looking for elk east of the town of Kittitas. Movement was noticed and three white rumps spotted.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

A hunter gets a surprising visit at her tree stand

Tayler Schafer is a busy woman. She is the mother of 2-year-old twin boys, plus she will be finishing her double major in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

A hunter gets a surprising visit at her tree stand

Tayler Schafer is a busy woman. She is the mother of 2-year-old twin boys, plus she will be finishing her double major in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Postmark key to counted absentee ballot

OK, this is the third week we have discussed this matter: The United States Postal Service does not guarantee every piece of mail dropped into a mail drop box will be postmarked.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Outdoors: More firearm terms to ponder

The firearm related terms in last week's column were well received, so we will continue with more this week.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Outdoors: Firearm related terms educate readers

From time to time this column has featured simple facts about outdoor-related topics, such as facts about wildlife or names of wildlife young. Today we will tackle a few firearm-related facts, supplied by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hunting and fishing: Goose, duck hunting good

Reports reaching this desk put the goose and duck hunting as good, maybe great. Goose hunters are shooting mostly limits. Some duck hunters are also, but others are waiting for the northerns to arrive, as they put it.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hunting and fishing: Goose, duck hunting good

Reports reaching this desk put the goose and duck hunting as good, maybe great. Goose hunters are shooting mostly limits. Some duck hunters are also, but others are waiting for the northerns to arrive, as they put it.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Make sure your mail-in ballots are postmarked

Remember, the United States Postal Service does not guarantee every piece of mail dropped into a mail drop box will be postmarked. As I understand the situation, the machine, whatever the machine is, doesn't postmark every envelope for whatever reason. Remember when an election is held and the Revised Code …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Outdoors: Firearm related terms educate readers

From time to time this column has featured simple facts about outdoor-related topics, such as facts about wildlife or names of wildlife young. Today we will tackle a few firearm-related facts, supplied by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

The legend of Four-Fish Crawler

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

Hunting and fishing: General elk season ends Sunday

Although several elk seasons will continue or begin again throughout the state, what is known as the general elk season will end on Sunday. Last Friday we were having lunch in Kittitas and witnessed a constant line of vehicles pulling into the convenience store and gas station across the street.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

No on I-594 and yes on I-591

Voting is an obligation and responsibility all U.S. citizens should take seriously. I usually shy away from political issues, but when the issues hit me where it hurts, I'm ready to battle.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

2014 Deer Camp Diary Pt. 2

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

Ground Observer cause continues to be important

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

Dry conditions slow deer hunting success

The deer numbers seem to be lacking in my hunting territory and the dry conditions seem to be the culprit. A Fish and Wildlife enforcement officer relayed a lack of deer taken opening weekend, even though a sizeable number of hunters have been checked. He also said there seems to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

2014 Deer Camp diary

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

Queen Virginia visits Larson AFB

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

General deer season opens Saturday; good luck

This is the last of a three-part series about eastern Washington hunting prospects.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

First Basin drive-in theater opened in July of 1952

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting prospects continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Water to Westlake important in 1952

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunters focus on upcoming hunting seasons

Columbia Basin hunters are focusing on the upcoming hunting seasons. The general modern firearm deer season opens on Oct. 11 in many areas across the state.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Class of 65 meeting this Saturday; Dean Feige to join the group

OK members of the Moses Lake High School Class of 1965. We are having a planning meeting tomorrow afternoon, Saturday, Sept. 27, at the back lawn of Kris and Bob Chudomelka, beginning at 3 p.m. Yes, we will be planning next year's reunion. Yep, this will be number 50.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Chelan and Douglas county hunting prospects

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Dean Feige is coming to town next week

Many of us remember Dean Feige from school. He was with us through at least part of our freshman year, before moving to, well, I think it was Portland.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Operation Skywatch conclusion

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Youth hunting rules this weekend

The special youth hunt is scheduled for tomorrow and Sunday, Sept. 20 and 21, with a daily limit of four Canada geese and a possession limit of eight. The youth hunter must be under 16 years old and accompanied by an adult who is 18 years old and not hunting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

How to take care of game in the field pt. 2

This is the second of a two-part series about taking care of game in the field.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Early Canada goose season this weekend

An early Canada goose season is scheduled for Goose Management Areas 4 and 5 on Sept. 13 and 14. These areas are basically lands east of the Cascade Mountains. The daily limit will be three with a possession limit of six. Remember this hunt is for Canada geese only.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Taking care of game in the field

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Dove hunting starting off well

Dove hunting can be a day-by-day event. One day the hunting is good, followed by a dip in the temperature and the birds disappear.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Thomas continues account of volunteering for Operation Skywatch

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Clay: First hunt productive

The plan was simple; meet in Wilson Creek at 5:30 a.m. and head north to our hunt area. My hunting buddy, Bill Green, was waiting when I arrived 20 minutes late. My usual goal is to be early when planning to meet a partner such as this, but, even though …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Monday is the opening of several hunting seasons

Just two days until the September hunting seasons begin. Opening will be the forest grouse seasons, which continues through Dec. 31. The limit is four a day with a possession limit of 12 straight or mixed bag.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

The Ground Observer Corps was important in the 1950s

E-mail from Cheryl

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Clay: Opening day hunt planned

Bill Green stood in front of me; his face about 12 inches from mine.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Countdown to September first hunting openers

September is the beginning of many hunting seasons. Read the regulations, if you don't already have the seasons memorized. Many Washington waters

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Fairchild airmen visit Grant County Fair

Two airmen and five dependents traveled from Fairchild to Moses Lake to attend the Grant County Fair. One family of four needed to cancel at the last minute. Our timeline of a 10 a.m. departure from Fairchild and a 12 noon arrival at the fairgrounds held true.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Rich Hums and Strums to Victory

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

More hunting seasons open in a couple weeks

The forest grouse seasons opens on Sept. 1 and continues through Dec. 31. The limit is four a day with a possession limit of 12 straight or mixed bag.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Ideas on how to restructure wild meat

My friend Bill Witt called a few days ago. We discussed our vegetable gardens, upcoming camping trips and outdoor cooking.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Baby it's dry outside

Fish and Wildlife restricted fires on Eastern Washington lands a month ago. They said, "The arrival of hot, dry summer weather has forced Fish and Wildlife to restrict fires and other activities on its eastern Washington lands to reduce the risk of a repeat of last year's costly fire season."

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Limited-entry deer hunt applications due Aug. 13

The 6,000- acre Charles and Mary Eder unit of the Scotch Creek Wildlife Area in northeastern Okanogan County will provide a quality hunt for 18 hunters this fall.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Bear season opens today

The fall black bear general season opens today, Aug. 1. The Game Management Units opening in the Columbia Basin are 133, 136, 139, 142, 248, 254, 260-290, 371-381. The GMUs in the hunt zone known as the East Cascades to open are 244-247, 249-251, 328, 329-368, 382, 388, 578.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Confusion abounds concerning hunts

There were public comment periods, where hunters could submit written remarks about changes in hunting rules. There were meetings open to the public where hunters could comment in person in front of the Washington State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

RoadRunners and PageBoys were early garage bands

Two of the early Columbia Basin garage bands of the 1960s were the RoadRunners and the PageBoys. Spencer Clark was a member of both bands and explains the band configuration this way:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Bear season opens a week from today

The fall black bear general season opens on Aug. 1, a week from today. The Game Management Units opening in the Columbia Basin are 133, 136, 139, 142, 248, 254, 260-290, 371-381. The GMUs in the hunt zone known as the East Cascades to open are 244-247, 249-251, 328, 329-368, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Now is the time to prepare for the fall hunt

Let the hunts begin. Yes, the first hunt begins Aug. 1, eight days from now. This hunt is for black bear in several Game Management Units, including some in the Columbia Basin. Other GMUs open for black bear on Aug. 15 and still more on Sept. 1. Two master hunter …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Use care when outside on hot days

OK, it's hot outside. The forecast is calling for the next 10 days is calling for five days topping out at 90 degrees or above and five days at 85 degrees or above. The lows are scheduled to be in the high 50s or low 60s.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Isaacs named Nash manager in 1952

The C.B. Supply Company sold Ferguson 30 tractors, as the ad indicates, but the company also sold Nash automobiles. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

The epilogue

Epilogue: A concluding part added to a literary work.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Raffle ticket deadline July 15

The 2014 raffle permit hunt tickets are now on sale with a due date of next Tuesday, July 15. These tickets cannot be purchased on the Internet or over the phone, but must be purchased in person at your favorite sporting goods store.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Moses Lake becomes base camp after Army service

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Fishing heats up for holiday weekend

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Clay: Reflecting on 67 years of being alive

This is a two-part series about my life.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Kaysers share rare wildlife viewing opportunity

We have seen a few hummingbird nests in our lifetime, but mostly up in the mountains or in an area where there are pine trees. Never have we seen or heard of a nest in the Columbia Basin or the Moses Lake area.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Eating humble pie: a Gorge Ampitheatre mix-up

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Two hunting plans seeking public input

Fish and Wildlife is requesting input from the public about two hunting plans. Although these seem confusing at first, they are important and your input will help. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

False technicality causes loss of money for Clark County Fair

This is the second of a two-part series about the cancelling of a Ted Nugent concert at the Clark County Fair.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Triploids planted for Father's Day fishing

Fish and Wildlife are stocking 10,000 one-and-a half pound triploid rainbow trout in 20 lakes before this weekend, Father's Day weekend.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Concert cancellation steeped in politics

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

New photos take over today

We have been showing old photos and asking for information about those photos for several weeks now. Readers have responded with great enthusiasm. Thank you. The responses to the latest photos, those appearing last week, including the mystery photo, will be presented in the near future.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Free fishing weekend tomorrow and Sunday

Hey folks, this is a great chance to take the family to a local lake for two days of fun. Park Lake would be a good choice. Let the kids fish, run and play while Mom and Dad relax. Then make lunch on the camp stove or make sandwiches. Even …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Site 23 comfortable, but weedy

This is the last of a three part series about camping at Site 23 in Potholes State Park.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Travel and setup routine efficiently accomplished

This is the second of a three-part series about our first camping trip of the year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Walleye fishing hot on Potholes Reservoir

We have been monitoring the boats coming in from fishing on Potholes Reservoir. Our vantage point is the Potholes State Park boat launch.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Clay: First camping trip of the year enlightening

This is the first part of a two-part series about our first camping trip of the year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Several end dates approach

We are approaching deadlines and season ending dates as spring progresses. The first, and most important for some hunters, is the May 22 deadline for applying for special fall hunting permits for deer, elk, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep and turkey.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Teach the inexperienced about outdoor survival

The camping season has arrived. Oh, I know the traditional camping season begins on Memorial Day weekend. However, the weather is forecast to be in the 70s and 80s for the next 10 days, so camping is fair game in my world.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Youth head to Lake Lenore Caves

Lisa Porter called me a few months ago.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Lowland lake opener results

The Lowland Lake fishing opener results are as follows: Warden Lake, number of anglers checked 91, with total number of fish kept 383 and number of fish released 154, making the average number of fish caught per angler at 5.9 and the average number of fish kept per angler at …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Clay: New hunting pamphlet requires study

The 2014 Big Game Hunting Seasons & Regulations Pamphlet is available online and in most sporting goods stores. The special permit application deadline is May 22, so it is time to study the pamphlet and meet with your hunting buddies about which hunts to submit permit applications.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Lowland lake opener tomorrow

Ready, set, cast. The annual Lowland lake opening day of fishing is tomorrow. Perhaps the most popular areas, oh, we should say one of the most popular areas will be the Sun Lakes area of Blue and Park lakes.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Do you know the answer; week 4

This is the fourth week of asking readers to identify photos, but the third week of class photos. The interest and fun of offering this photo is trying to identify everyone in the photo. This photo, and the other two class photos, was submitted by Regan Berryhill Bonato. Look for …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Clay: The power and beauty of words

Recently Shawn Cardwell and I were talking about, well...I can't remember what our main topic was, but the subject of the meaning of words overcame whatever else we were talking about.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Do you know the answer; week 3

Yes we continue to offer our photograph identification series. Today we have another grade school photograph needing names to go along with the faces. These were submitted by Regan Berryhill Bonato and are being considered for publication in the Columbia Basin Herald's upcoming book, "The Columbia Basin; A Photographic Perspective …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Black Beauty is a caffeine fiend

So there I was, minding my own business, when...

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Do you know the answer; week 2

This week we continue our photograph identification series. Today we have a grade school photograph needing names to go along with the photos. It was submitted by Regan Berryhill Bonato and are being considered for publication in the Columbia Basin Herald's upcoming book, "The Columbia Basin; A Photographic Perspective Volume …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Dining table problem solved; Garnet's special touch adds comfort

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Annual MLIRD Kid's Fishing Derby tomorrow, April 12

The Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District will host the Fifth Annual Kid's Fishing Derby at Connelly Park tomorrow, April 12, for youth ages 5 through 14. Weinstein Beverage and Pepsi also sponsor the event.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

April is busy month for outdoor activities

April is the month for spring hunting and fishing. Turkey and trout and walleye and camping should all or in part be on your agenda. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Clay: Still learning about using our travel trailer

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Time to purchase a fishing license

Pull your fishing and hunting license out of your wallet and note the ending date. It will be 03/31/2014. This means it is time to purchase a new license.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

4-H members invited to movie in 1950

4-H was as popular in 1950 as the organization is today. In 1950 4-H members were invited to a free movie to celebrate the completion of 1949 projects. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Clay: Spring camping is on my mind

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Hazel Osborne remembers the flying ants around the homestead buildings

Today it is simple for us to take a spray can or pump sprayer to get rid of unwanted insects and spiders. Back in the early 1900s, the chickens helped with insect control. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Record runs of Columbia River chinook, coho forecast

Did you hear we can expect a record run of salmon and steelhead this year? This news is exciting enough to get every salmon and steelhead angler checking their tackle. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Day trip on tap: Steamboat Rock State Park

The recent columns by Danielle Blevins have inspired me to take to the road in search of interesting places. If I find a plant native to the Columbia Basin, all the better. Fact is, I have been enjoying Basin wildflowers all my life, but didn't know the names or history …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Access restricted behind Wanapum Dam

The water behind Wanapum Dam is lower than since the building of the dam. This means the area is unsafe. We have heard of one person becoming stuck in sand/mud up to the waist. Take a trip to view this historical event, but stay above normal high-water level. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Mercer girls arrive in 1860s

OK, in the Feb. 14 Bits & Pieces column, the E-mail from Cheryl segment read as follows:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

State fish art contest deadline approaches

Teachers and children of K through 12 age take notice. The State Fish Art Contest has been holding an annual contest for the past 15 years. The deadline escapes my notice for some reason and I seem to be playing catch up or the deadline is too late. Yes, I'm …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting in Moses Lake

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Thanks Moses Lake and Ephrata!

The Heritage Room of the 92nd Air Refueling Squadron, stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base near Spokane, contains items to make the airmen comfortable when they take a break from the stress and pressure of active duty.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Weather affected first-day fishing season turnout

The follow information was received from Fish and Wildlife about the March 1 opener. As you will see, the weather was a factor, as it is during most of the spring fishing openers. The word creelers is used to identify the people who traveled from lake to lake and checked …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

First fishing opener tomorrow

Ready, set...go. Tomorrow is the first day of this year's fishing season openers, known as the March 1 opener. The lakes involved include: The three Caliche lakes, Martha, Cascade, Crystal, Cup, Dot, Dusty, George, Nunnally, Quincy, and Spring lakes are all listed as opening on March 1. The most popular …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

First Food Bank Challenge produces recipes sure to help others

The residents of Pioneer Village stepped up to the plate and hit a home run recently in the name of food preparation. A month or so ago I challenged the residents to prepare foods for a type of cook off. They were up to the contest and it was titled …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

More thoughts on cooking fish and game

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

March 1 openers in sight

We are lucky in the Columbia Basin to have lakes and streams open to fishing 365 days a year. We also have lakes which are open only during part of the year. The first opener will take place a week from tomorrow and is known as the March 1 opener.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Pioneer Village and Food Bank team-up for more nutritious meals and recipes

The Moses Lake Food Bank is well organized and well stocked. The staff and volunteers supply food for...well the numbers are rather interesting and perhaps shocking.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Concluding Soap Lake by Knapp; continuing Irrigation Project by Weber

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Finishing year 23 and beginning year 24

Time flies by, as the saying goes. This anniversary each year amazes me, as they seem to come faster each year. Today marks the end of 23 years of writing this column for the Columbia Basin Herald. It also means the beginning of year 24.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Robin makes appearance, then disappears

Our neighbor, Bill McKinney, called last weekend.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

1950 primary vote has 52 percent turnout

Grant County had a 52 percent voter turnout for the 1950 September primary. Ready On.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Sweet win means disappointment for friend

The weeks before the 2014 Super Bowl provided enthusiasm and excitement unparalleled in the Pacific Northwest, since, well, perhaps, the end of World War II. Seahawk pennants were flying from Bellingham to Clarkston, from Vancouver to Colville. Seahawk tee-shirts were seen in otherwise formal workplaces, walking the streets, in medical …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

A friend's transition; Connie and Tom tie the knot

Connie Craft is a friend to many in the Columbia Basin, although few have actually visited with her face to face. Connie is a once-a-month guest on my radio show, Columbia Basin Lifestyles, on KBSN-AM 1470, which airs Saturday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT Show chance to see new products; meet new friends

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Last week of hunting seasons and to submit hunter reports

The hunting seasons are at an end this Sunday with the duck, snipe, coot and goose season ending on Jan. 26.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Vegas trip has interesting beginning

This is the first of a two-part series about attending the 2014 SHOT Show.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Winter weather conditions strange

OK, what's with the weather these days? Strange is a good word. In the low to mid-40s during the day and just below freezing at night is not encouraging for ice anglers. At least we had a taste of ice fishing for a few days, but this was not long …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Mrs. Knapp's father was in the bootlegging business

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Facts about the sports of fishing and hunting

Sometimes it is interesting and, yes, fun to just absorb facts, but facts are educational as well. Proving my point is easy by simply checking with the National Hunting and Fishing Day people and the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation people. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons winding down

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Lindblad tells of early life in "Settling Down"

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

We are headed into the quiet time of year

The hunting seasons are coming to an end and the ice isn't thick enough to safely support anglers, or at least it is iffy. What's an outdoor-minded person supposed to do?

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Mrs. Knapp traveled Washington State to attend high school

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Hunter reports due

Reminder: Hunters who purchased tags for black bear, deer, elk or turkey are reminded that reports on their hunting activities are due by Jan. 31 for each 2013 license, permit or tag purchased.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Constant theme identifies first column of year

The headlines identify a constant theme for my first column of the year: Jan. 1, 2009, "Payback time in the Great Outdoors;" Jan. 7, 2010, "Setting the stage now for the coming year;" Jan. 6, 2011, "Giving is the theme of the year;" Jan. 5, 2012, "Beginning a new year …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Lindblad family arrives in Wilson Creek

The Lindblad family arrives in Wilson Creek, after traveling half a week, to pungent smell of sages. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Cougar season to close Dec. 31 in some areas of the state

Cougar hunting remains open through March 31 in some areas of the state. Now, through a new cougar hunting plan, Game Management Units will close, depending upon how many cougars have been killed in some areas. A hunter heading into the Great Outdoors in search of cougar or those who …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Results of duck rape cause for study

OK, at the University of Washington Burke Museum the term used is forced copulation, but in reality the act is duck rape. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Washington off to Olympia in 1949

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

The last week for Christmas shopping

This is the last of a three-part series about outdoor-related Christmas shopping.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Master Hunter open enrollment begins Jan. 1

Fish and Wildlife will accept applications for its Master Hunter Permit Program from Jan. 1 through Feb. 15, 2014. The program is designed to promote safe, lawful and ethical hunting and to strengthen Washington's hunting heritage and conservation ethic.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Lindblad's book begins with 'Go West' poem

The acknowledgment page of Frank Lindblad's book, "A Pioneer's Ballad," is full of names which have appeared in this column before. Do you recognize some of them?

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Two weeks from Christmas

This is the second of a three-part series about Christmas gifts for outdoor-minded people.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons continue

Various deer and elk hunts continue. Also the duck, coot and snipe seasons continue, along with the goose season.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Coincidences mark strange happenings

Sometimes there is a happening so strange it belongs in the realm of a coincidence, but even more, such as in the realm of a fluke or a twist of fate.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Three weeks from Christmas

This is the first of a three-part series about gifts for outdoor-minded people.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Ralph Osborne homesteaded nine miles Southwest of Wilson Creek

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Master Hunter applicants should begin study now

The next open enrollment period for the Master Hunter Permit Program will begin Jan. 1, 2014 and remain open until Feb. 15, 2014.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons continue

If the number of shotgun blasts heard around the Columbia Basin is any indication, hunters are getting opportunities to bag birds. Opportunities is the correct word, because just because a hunter pulls the trigger doesn't mean a bird hits the ground.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Mrs. Knapp's mother started the first Soap Lake School

Grant County history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Rich and I learn about turkeys

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Late fall turkey season begins next Wednesday

This hunt is another great chance for mentors to take less experienced hunters into the field. Inexperienced hunters include youth, but also older hunters who are also beginners. They could be 25, 37, 52 or older, but haven't spent much time in the field. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Paul Klasen tells of Indians visiting Soap Lake

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Why I hunt part two

This is the last of a two-part series about my reasons for hunting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Is the new dock producing?

We have a new fishing dock at Blue Heron Park, what many of us know as The State Park. We have seen a few people on the dock, some even fishing, but have not received a report of anyone catching fish.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Dr. Oliver wrestled with robber at Wilson Creek Tavern

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Why I like to hunt

This is the first of a two-part series about my reasons for hunting.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Fish and Wildlife expects good elk harvest

OK, so the elk hunters are in the field trying to find the large critters. Fish and wildlife was predicting a great year for elk hunters, but as of this writing, no word has reached this desk about success rate.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Klasen hauled coal to fire generators in 1919

There was no general electricity when Paul Klasen Sr. arrived in Soap Lake in 1919. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Deer camp success

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

A pleasurable hunt

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Pheasant season begins tomorrow

There are two opening seasons this weekend. First the duck, coot and snipe seasons reopen on Saturday, Oct. 19, after being closed for two days. Second, the pheasant season opens tomorrow and will remain open until Jan.12.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Thoughts from 2013 Hunting Camp

This is the first of a multi-series about deer hunting at The Hut.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS AGO

Big hunting weekend is here

This is it, the big weekend for deer hunters, as the modern firearm general season opens for most of Washington. Also the duck, goose, coot and snipe seasons open.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Weber made money collecting beer bottles; catching gophers

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Last of the hunting prospects

The Fish and Wildlife hunting prospects will continue in this column, as we did last week, first with the rest of District 7 and then on to District 1. Read on and good luck to all during the season. Send me photos.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

No elk yet, more general seasons set to open

My vehicle is just inside a gate on private land, but my view includes state Fish and Wildlife land. The goal is to notch an elk tag. However, after three and a half hours, no four-legged creatures have come into view, much less an elk. The first two hours were …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

McKeehan family history continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting prospects continued

The Fish and Wildlife hunting prospects will continue in this column, as we did last week, first with the rest of District 6 and then on to District 7. Remember District 6 is Okanogan County and includes Game Management Units: 203 (Pasayten), 204 (Okanogan East), 209 (Wannacut), 215 (Sinlahekin), 218 …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting seasons continue

People are getting serious about hunting. There are several open now and others are about to open and still others are set to open in a couple of weeks.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Ben Castro is my hero: Binder lost and found

There is a black binder in my life measuring 9.5 inches by 6 inches. A zipper on three sides closes and opens the device.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting prospects continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Col. Newberry in Moses Lake next Tuesday

OK, this is your chance to meet and visit with the Commander of Fairchild Air Force Base; Col. Brian Newberry. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Calling all volunteers

The program has been alive for nine or could it be 10 years now? No matter the exact age, it is alive and well and serving the purpose for which it was hatched. The original idea was to salvage any animals, birds or fish enforcement officers confiscate because a hunter …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Angler comments requested

Now is your chance to comment on proposed angling rule changes. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Murray and his horse, Frosty, made a great pair

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Essential items on a hunting trip

My backpack is essentially a storage unit for many hunting tools. Several hunting knives are stored in the pack, as are flashlights, headlamps, knife sharpeners and many other items which are not duplicated.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Basin Meats donates to cause

Doug Horn, the new owner of Basin Meats, donated 500 ground meat bags to the Moses Lake Food Bank to use when salvaging wild game. Volunteers respond to Fish and Wildlife request to help salvage any big game animal, but usually deer.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

No, Grandpa Jake was not on Noah's Ark

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

A clean backpack advised before hunting season

This is the second of a two-part series about exploring the hunting backpack.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Turkey seasons cause double take

Noticed in the Washington State Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game Seasons pamphlet and also Washington's 2013 Big Game hunting Seasons and Regulations: Turkey:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

2013 Grant County Fair deemed a success

The 2013 Grant County Fair was a success, because I say so. The only problem on my end was the History Barn was not open every minute of every day of the fair. We are working to solve this situation next year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Exploring the hunting backpack

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Neppel Days no more

A lack of participation has caused the end of an era. Neppel Days, a standard at the Grant County Fair and other places, has ended when few people were in attendance.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

County fair indicator hunting season close at hand

The Grant County Fair is an enjoyable time for me. Citizens from across the county converge on this one spot for five days. This is a time to show sheep, cattle, horses, canned goods, welding ability, woodworking skills, sewing expertise, garden flowers and much, much more.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Migratory waterfowl seasons set

The Fish and Wildlife Commission recently established the 2013-2014 migratory waterfowl seasons.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

An open letter to the Noxious Weed Control Board

Dear Board Members,

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Family history revealed

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Raffle hunt results are now available

Those who purchased raffle tickets for the many raffle hunts can check the results on the Fish and Wildlife website. Once on the site, click on hunting, then special permits and raffles, then, on the right side of the page, click on check my raffle results. You will need to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Gordon Ebbert in CBH last week and in 1950, as well

It is difficult to keep a productive person, such as Gordon Ebbert, out of the newspaper. There he was in the news last week and earlier this week and on April 21, 1950, too.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Cooking your catch: part two

Ideally every consumptive outdoors person would use every scrap of the animals, birds and fish shot and caught. Most do a good job of using all the meat, but to varying degrees.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Groundhog prank was short-lived in Coulee City

Apparently entertainment was simple and easy in Coulee City during the early days. But the groundhog prank was ... well, read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Wolf impact on big game herds discussed

Recently representatives from Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, along with Dave Ware, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, discussed the impacts wolves have had on deer, elk and other big game animals in Idaho and Montana.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Enjoying the fruits of outdoor efforts

One of the rewards of notching a big game tag, bagging a game bird or catching fish is the enjoyment of cooking and eating the catch.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Oscar McCoy worked for the AAA in Wilson Creek history

Oscar and Arlen McCoy and sons, Allan and Kenneth, arrived in Wilson Creek in 1945. Oscar worked for the AAA. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Parhams retire from Basin Meats

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

It's time for a day trip

The days are warm, hot actually. Still, it's time for a day trip.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor weddings are special

So there I was, minding my own business, when...the doorbell sounded.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Raffle permit hunt deadline Monday

Here is a chance to do a bit of gambling. The raffle permit hunt ticket purchase deadline is Monday July 15. There are many categories or hunts to select and there is no limit as to the number of tickets a person may purchase.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Silverbow Honey donates product to veterans, airmen

Each month the 92 Air Refueling Squadron at Fairchild Air Force Base holds a Hail and Farewell ceremony. My wife, Garnet, and I attend whenever we are able, about nine out of 12 months.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Hot weather, fire danger top concerns

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Angelo Mandelas comes to the rescue for old typewriter

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Hunting on my mind

The calendar indicates we are at the first week in July, yet my mind is centering on hunting. Putting Bill Green's boat in the water at Deep Lake and looking for rainbow trout has appeal.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Confusing words clarified by Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

Earlier this year I asked for clarification about the use of deer and elk tags during the master hunter special permit hunts, along with the master hunter 3911 and 3912 hunts. After weeks or months of working on the matter, Fish and Wildlife has offered the following explanation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Basin organizations help stretch food dollar further

Today we finish my take on the AmeriCorps SNAP challenge. The challenge, by Jeni Roberts, was to buy the food a person was going to eat for seven days of the average SNAP allowance of $38.83 per person in the family. A family of two would have $77.66 to spend, …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

My take on the AmeriCorps SNAP challenge

AmeriCorps member Jeni Roberts has provided food for thought with her SNAP challenge. SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and it replaced what we have known as the Food Stamp Program.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Results of special permit drawings available

The message was four sentences long, but powerful: "The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife special permit drawings for 2013 have been conducted. To view your drawing results, visit the WDFW website at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/wa/specialhuntlookup.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

One unit of measure or another

So there I was minding my own business in the kitchen when ... my wife Garnet called from the living room.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Volunteers gather to trap, band geese

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

SNAP challenge an experience for everyone, join me

Jeni Roberts has extended the challenge; are you game? See if you are able to obtain the food to eat on $38.83 a week for each member of your family. This amount is the average SNAP allowance per week per person. SNAP now replaces Food Stamps.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

A hike into the past with local kids

The e-mail arrived on Feb. 25. It was from Lisa Porter.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Free fishing dominates weekend

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

First annual Artists' Market scheduled for tomorrow

A member of the Moses Lake High School Great Class of 1965, Kris Chudomelka, has organized an artists' Market to take place tomorrow, Saturday, June 8.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

My plumbing expertise is tested

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Artists' Market event scheduled for next Saturday

Now here is a first-of-a-kind event: An Artists' Market is scheduled for next Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 4843 Orchard Drive NE. Showing at the event will be Dream Tree Creations by Sharon, Garden Delights by Elissa, Restore Décor by Karyll, Kreatives by Kris and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Family opportunities tomorrow, next weekend

The annual Kids Fishing Day will take place tomorrow, June 1, at Cascade Park. At this point there are still openings for all sessions. This means it is possible for those parents who have not registered their children to still have their children participate. However, it may take more of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Small release valve threatens our first spring camping excursion

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Ritzville City Park site of grange picnic in 1949

Members of the various greater Columbia Basin granges were busy in 1949 with a picnic, home economic group social and a canning contest. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Kids Fishing Day a week from tomorrow

The annual Kids Fishing Day will take place a week from tomorrow, June 1, at Cascade Park. The Moses Lake Park and Recreation Department is helping to organize the event. Although they ask registrations be complete by close of business today, it is possible to register until all times are …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor survival is an ongoing education

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Don Urquhart assisted with railroad route planning

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Special hunting permit applications deadline next Wednesday, May 22

The deadline is near, don't dawdle, dally or otherwise delay in deciding which hunting permits you desire to submit. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor survival training essential

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Erlenmeyer, Slate find walleye, take home a dozen

Michael Slate sent in a report about a successful fishing trip with Tim Erlenmeyer recently. The pair found a group of walleye near Goat Island and fished bottom bouncers and walleye spinners. Could this be a worm harness?

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Knowledge Hill held four-room Wilson Creek School

Before the well was drilled, water was hauled up Knowledge Hill to the Wilson Creek School, coal and wood also. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Continued study of big game pamphlet helpful

The new big game hunting pamphlet has been published and is available to hunters who should obtain a copy and study it from cover to cover.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Perch, Deep top opener lakes

Fish and Wildlife Fish Biologist Chad Jackson offered the following results report of the lowland lake opener last Saturday. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Abe Loewen built a garage on Main Street in Wilson Creek

Abe first had a garage behind the family home and later build a garage on Main Street in Wilson Creek. Other Loewen family history below also. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Hunting pamphlet requires study

The 2013 Washington state Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet has been published. These regulations are effective from April 1, 2013 through March 31, 2014. Women and men expecting to hunt this fall should acquire and study it from cover to cover.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Last chance: Daedalian Scholarship deadline April 30

Yes, the deadline is near, but if you hurry, there is time.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Lowland lakes opener is tomorrow

This is it, the big fishing opener. Years ago, before there were three fishing openers, the April opener was the largest outdoor sporting event in the spring. Perhaps it still is. It certainly is the largest fishing event of the year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Work party scheduled for tomorrow

Volunteering not only makes the person involved feel good, but it helps the organization sponsoring the project as well. We have a project taking place tomorrow. Yes this is short notice, but those interested should simply show up at the work site by following the directions below or trying to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Madge was skittish in the cold weather

Firsthand accounts of life in the early days are interesting and sometimes exciting. School teachers had lots to do in those days, especially during cold weather. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Spring turkey season begins Monday

The youth turkey season is over. Beginning Monday, adults will have a chance to take two birds. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Soil free of weed seed when pioneers arrived

The Grant County Noxious Weed Board has indicated the beginning of this or the other weed was in wheat seed contaminated when brought from the old country. Mordhorst also indicates Columbia Basin soil was free of weed seed when the pioneers began farming. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Water system purification is fundamental

This is the second of a multi-part series about preparing for spring camping.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

It's Daedalian Scholarship time again

OK, we went through this last year at this time, but it is appropriate we again inform readers. As you read this, remember one of last year's scholarship winners was from Moses Lake and the $1,000 scholarship was matched by the national Organization of Daedalians.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Crane Festival held in Othello this weekend

The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival marks 16 years of existence this year. Wow, congrats to all who work on this educational event.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Spring camping on my mind

This is the first of a multi-part series about preparing for spring camping.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Moses Lake Food Bank continues to help those in need

The Moses Lake Food Bank is doing a great job of putting food on the tables of those who need a helping hand. Years ago when I worked for the State helping disabled veterans find jobs, veterans would meet me at my desk. An assessment was made and the vet …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Wolf sightings abound, some close to home

They are getting closer. Mike Garneau of the Warden area sent word of a wolf sighting south of Wenatchee. Apparently a rancher found a dead pregnant cow with wolf tracks and signs of a wolf feeding on the carcass.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Making progress shelf by shelf

Cleaning the freezer is taking more time than estimated in the beginning. Still progress is constant and the advancement can be observed when the door is open.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Packing clinic scheduled by the Crab Creek Riders

The Crab Creek Riders, along with the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington, enjoy getting away from civilization and pack into the backcountry. Both organizations are, therefore, interested in helping to maintain the trails they use when traveling in the mountains. Many of the CCR members are also members of the BCHW …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Volunteers needed for springtime work

Nesting boxes need servicing and the shore of Moses Lake too. Volunteers provide the labor to accomplish much work in the Columbia Basin. There is always room for one more volunteer, so if you are inclined to help, read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

March 1 opener report continued

Space restrictions restricted us from reporting all of the March 1 opener report we had available. Today we continue with the report.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Missing pen remains a Columbia Basin Herald mystery

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Today we continue with Thomas' own account of receiving the pen used to sign the final Columbia Basin repayment …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Delicacies discovered while cleaning freezer

The work of harvesting a game bird, animal or fish makes the flesh taste sweeter.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Anglers catch near limits on season opener

The March 1 opener is history and anglers from all across the state enjoyed the first weekend of the season. In addition, the Quincy Trout Fishing Derby was held last Saturday. The results of the derby were not available at the time of this writing.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Special pen presented to Herald Editor Ned Thomas

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Today we continue with Thomas' own account.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

A day of reconnaissance and visiting with friends

Day trips are a common outdoor experience for my wife Garnet and me. Ephrata friends, Rosann and Bill Green, have mentioned the idea of using a goat to help trim their pasture area instead of having to use a lawn mower. After the goat helped keep the pasture grass down …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Quincy trout derby tomorrow

The third annual trout derby is scheduled to take place on Burke Lake tomorrow. The lake will be stocked with around 100 trout in the 14- to 18-inch range, plus 35 fish weighing 6 to 7 pounds.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Editor has his say with President Kennedy over lunch

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Today we continue with Thomas' own account.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

State wolf population increasing at a fast pace

Gray wolves seem to enjoy Washington so much their numbers nearly doubled in the past year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Tour ends Columbia Basin Herald editor's visit to White House

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Today we continue with Thomas' own account.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

First fishing opener one week from today

Three years ago, my wife, Garnet, and I were camping at Martha Lake. We arrived on Feb. 28, the day before the traditional March 1 opener and backed the travel trailer to the end of the long, narrow spit jutting into the lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Father and son team scores on ducks

Christmas Eve 2012 was a good day for Peter Steffens and his father, Dr. Thomas Steffens. The father and son team brought home five ducks after an outing with Ecternkamp's Guide Service, 766-6791, on Potholes Reservoir.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

President Kennedy was wearing a dark gray business suit

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Today we backtrack a bit and then continue with Thomas' own account.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Present gun laws sufficient

Gun control: The present gun laws are sufficient.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Steelhead season on Wenatchee River opens

The Wenatchee and Icicle rivers are open to steelhead fishing today, Feb. 8. Plus the Wenatchee River will open today to fishing for whitefish.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

White House hosts luncheon during Kennedy presidency

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Today we backtrack a bit and then continue with Thomas' own account.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

No need for more gun control laws

This is the first of a two-part series about gun control.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Columnist takes time to tie up some loose strings

Several items have been floating around in my world without closure. It is time to give you an update.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Spring-like temperatures again teasing

Again we are being teased. The temperature, as this is being written, is standing at 40 degrees and this is at 4:40 p.m. It is as if a light switch had been flipped. The forecast for the next 10 days calls for lows in the high 30s and highs in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

SHOT show provides look at new products

This is the last of a two-part series about the 2013 SHOT show.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Illness hampers last week of hunting

The plan for this week in January was to hunt geese every day and shoot a few ducks if they were located, but, alas, the plan was not even commenced. Last Sunday a cold seemed to be hammering away at my body. Tuesday was my worst day. The cough improved …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Herald editor, President Kennedy talk over luncheon

Over the next few weeks this column will highlight the contact Columbia Basin Herald Editor Ned Thomas had with the White House and President John F. Kennedy in the early 1960s. Here's the report from Thomas' own account.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Las Vegas trade show an enlightening experience

This is the first of a two-part series about the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT) held at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Another reminder: Hunter reports due soon

Hunter reports due by Jan. 31 at the latest and by Jan. 10 to be entered into a special hunt opportunity.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Entering the stagnant time of year

These pages have been pounded with information about outdoor-minded women and men will venturing into the Great Outdoors no matter the weather. The topics are aimed at the fact the stagnant time of year for the outdoorsman is approaching.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Grouse, crow seasons end Monday

The last day of the grouse and crow seasons is Monday. I realize there aren't many forest grouse around here, but some of our hunters pursue them.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Reflections of a year gone by

It's time for the last column for the year. This is a chance to reflect on the happenings of the past 52 weeks.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Gloyd Seeps provides hunting opportunities

Another productive hunting spot near Moses Lake is near the pioneer town of Gloyd. Take Stratford Road north out of Moses Lake to Road 12. Take a left on Road 12 and you should be headed west. Drive past the Block 40 Clubhouse and other houses. Eventually the paved road …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Wilson Creek flood of 1957 proved especially bad

Spring flooding is a part of Wilson Creek history. The flood of 1957 was an especially bad one. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Last-minute Christmas gifts for outdoor minded people

OK everyone, there are only four more days until Christmas; Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. It seems strange to be discussing last-minute gift ideas with so much time. Usually this column is published on the 22 or 23 of December.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

First 4-H club in Ephrata focused on sewing

The Grant County Historical Society has compiled several volumes of Grant County history. The books are available for purchase at the Historical Society Museum gift shop in Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hunting sand dunes can be productive

A favorite spot to hunt from high school until the present is the sand dune area south of I-90 across from the old Moses Lake State Park. Cross over the overpass and park in a safe spot alongside the road.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Knives make an all-encompassing gift

This is the third of a four-part series about Christmas shopping for outdoor-minded people.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Steelhead, whitefish closed on select rivers

Steelhead fisheries on the upper Columbia River closed one hour after sunset on Dec. 1 from Wells Dam to the Highway 173 Bridge at Brewster and on the Wenatchee, Icicle, Entiat, and Methow rivers.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Bread flop floated down Wilson Creek, stuck on bridge

Wilson Creek area history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Camping, fishing items make first-class Christmas gifts

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Turkey hunting continues

Hey folks, this is a super hunt for beginning hunters. The hunt area is expanded this year from years past. Take advantage of the opportunity.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Rattlesnakes cause fright at rock ledge near Ephrata

Rattlesnakes have long been a part of Columbia Basin history. Thelma Billngsley Nicks found a cave full one day. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Christmas gifts for outdoor-minded people

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Consider a Discover Pass as a holiday gift

The Discover Pass was a controversial idea in the beginning, to say the least. Prospective buyers stayed away in droves. After the pass was allowed to be used on two vehicles, the idea was more readily accepted.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Hardships for family include fire and auto accidents

House and barn fires are experienced hardships, besides the rigors of everyday life in the early part of the last century. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Thoughts for the time of year

It's proper to pause a few times each year to contemplate the moment, the time of year. Perhaps it's my nature to reflect more than most.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Sheep herds walked to mountains for summer pasture

The Grant County Historical Society has compiled several volumes of Grant County history. The books are available for purchase at the Historical Society Museum gift shop in Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Shrub planting party to take place this weekend

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Lani and I notch tags

This is the last of a three-part series about the 2012 deer-hunting season.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

The Shivaree: noisy serenade a lost wedding tradition

It is spelled Charivari, Chivaree or Shivaree, depending upon which part of the world it becomes an event. Usually it is a gathering of town's people outside of the house of a newly married couple.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Thomas called to duty; Lani and I continue hunt

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Tree planting this weekend; volunteers needed

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Submission deadline for photo book nears; don't miss it

There were some complaints when the last CBH picture book was published. No, these complaints didn't have anything to do with what appeared in the book, but rather the fact some people didn't take the time to submit photos in their possession. Their families were left out.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Notes from deer camp 2012

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Methow steelheading good, according to Redwine

The Redwines, Tera and Virgil, enjoy fishing the Methow River. They fished the river last weekend with good success, catching at least one fish. Virgil was fishing about six miles from the mouth of the Columbia River, using a six-weight fly fishing rod. He was using a strike indicator with …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Thelma Billingsley Nicks remembers Western Flyer sleds

Many a youth remembers sledding down the hills of the Columbia Basin and hot chocolate being served to warm everyone after time on the snow. Well, so does Thelma Billingsley Nicks in her story about Ephrata. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Advancing technology wiped out blacksmith shop, ice shed

Oh technology...It is great, yes, but takes away items familiar with us, such as the Wilson Creek blacksmith shop and ice shed. Some of us remember rotary phones, some don't. Try to explain a rotary telephone to your grandkids. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Advancing technology wiped out blacksmith shop, ice shed

Oh technology...It is great, yes, but takes away items familiar with us, such as the Wilson Creek blacksmith shop and ice shed. Some of us remember rotary phones, some don't. Try to explain a rotary telephone to your grandkids. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Opening weekend reported to be good

Sometimes it is difficult to retrieve information from Fish and Wildlife. Sometimes it is not their fault.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Preventing elk from damaging orchards

This is the last of a three-part series about controlling problem elk on orchard lands near Wenatchee.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS AGO

Your photos needed for CBH historical book due by Christmas

This is your chance, don't miss out. The first CBH picture book was a great success and has become a treasured keepsake for those who own the book. The CBH is now in the process of assembling the second edition, known as Volume Two, which will make the perfect companion …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Tomorrow: big day for area hunters

Oct. 13, 2012 is a big day for Columbia Basin hunters. The modern firearm general deer season opens in most of the state. Also the duck, coot, snipe and Canada goose seasons open.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Damage-causing elk caught inside fence

This is the second of a three-part series about controlling problem elk on orchard lands.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Emma arrives from Sweden, meets Ben in Coulee Country

After the wedding, a shivaree began the life of Emma and Ben Lane. Say, any interesting shivaree stories out there? Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting season will not close for fires

A check of the weather website shows no rain is forecast for the next week or so. This is good news for hay farmers with alfalfa on the ground, but hunters want rain.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Master hunters assist orchardists in controlling elk

This is the first of a two-part series about controlling problem game animals on agricultural lands.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Fish and Wildlife kills offending wolves

Fish and Wildlife said they would take action when necessary. Action has been taken, but was it timely? Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Next CBH historical picture book due out before Christmas

Tera Redwine needs your help. She is working to gather photos for another historical picture book. Remember the Herald published one in... Well has it been 14 years ago already? Contact Tera Redwine at the Herald at 765-4561 to have your photos included.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Hunting a valuable tool in wildlife management

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Youth hunts on tap this weekend

The time is nigh. The youth hunts, for several species of birds, takes place this weekend, Saturday and Sunday. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Donna liked sewing and Marilyn enjoyed cooking

4-H was educating youngsters when Donna and Marilyn were growing up. Marilyn liked to bake and Donna was fond of sewing. If Emma was away when the girls arrived home from school, she could expect ...Well, read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

A message to future outdoor-minded people

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Wolf faces execution, but is saved by President Lincoln

The Grant County Historical Society has compiled several volumes of Grant County history. The books are available for purchase at the Historical Society Museum gift shop in Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Hunting word of day: Canada geese the target

Interesting point about reading the Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game Seasons pamphlet; a hunter has to wonder if all of the wording is correct. Take for example the dates of the first September Canada goose hunt since 2008.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

A look at the upcoming waterfowl and upland seasons

At least four pamphlets are published each year for the benefit of outdoor-minded people. The spring turkey hunting pamphlet is comprised of the least amount of pages.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Mary Ellen Smith offers English advice, full of humor

The mini bus pulled up in front of my neighbor's house. Bill and Margaret McKinney were curbside in short order as the door opened and the driver brought the wheelchair down to ground level.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Plenty of hunting seasons underway

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

George passes and leaves big boots and a deep hole

My friend, George Wilson, passed away a week and two days ago. My wife, Garnet, and I met George and his wife, Mabel, during their volunteer efforts at the Potholes Ducks Unlimited banquets.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Archery deer and elk seasons begin

Tomorrow, Sept. 1, is a big day in the hunting world, as several hunting seasons are set to open. Dennis note: I want to go after doves close to home, but a grouse hunt or two during September is warranted. As I have mentioned before, would be great to combine …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor adventures are a part of John Michael Montgomery's life

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Archery deer and elk seasons about to begin

A week from tomorrow, Saturday, Sept. 1, is a banner day for hunting in Washington State. Several hunting seasons begin on the date.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

A few minutes with John Michael Montgomery

Part one of a two-part Q and A series

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Samuel Billingsley raised a family of 17 children

Large families were common in the old days. Samuel Billingsley raised a family of 17 children, having 10 with his first wife, Ruth, and seven with his second wife, Elizabeth. You see Ruth and Elizabeth were good friends, so before Ruth died, she asked her husband to marry Elizabeth and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Mourning dove and forest grouse season to open in two weeks

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Helping prevent fires in the Great Outdoors

The recent Cle Elum wildfire has brought my focus this week back to preventing wildfires. The word recent is misused in this instance.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Fish and Wildlife uses lethal force on cattle-killing wolves

The question was, will they really kill a wolf if necessary? Indeed they will and now they have. Fish and Wildlife officers have killed a wolf from a pack in northeast Washington.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Covered wagon still mode of transportation in early 1900s

Although we think of a covered wagon as a mode of transportation during the mid to late 1800s, such as wagon was used to move the Knopps to the Palouse country in 1916. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Waterfowl seasons set for 2012

The Fish and Wildlife commission has set the 2012 waterfowl hunting seasons during a public meeting on Aug. 3 and 4 in Olympia.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Aunt Kate traveled to France to visit son's grave

Although a difficult journey to undertake, Aunt Kate traveled to France to visit World War I battlefields and cemeteries, including the one where her son is buried. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Salmon fishing and bear hunting season begins

We have a couple salmon fishing seasons opening tomorrow and the bear hunting season started Wednesday, Aug. 1, in several Game Management Units. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Solving a big problem in orchard country

Solving a problem takes time. It may take a few seconds or years to resolve, depending upon the situation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Double decker became bribe for pinochle game

Playing pinochle was a favorite pastime of Zach Finney, but when the table was a player short, a bribe was in order. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Public input sought about proposed lake treatment

Fish and Wildlife is set to rehabilitate three lakes in eastern Washington with rotenone. The lakes are Fish Lake in Spokane County, Little Beaver Lake in Okanogan County and Burke Lake in Grant County. The treatments are proposed for this fall to remove species ranging from brown bullhead to northern …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Surplus fish and wildlife offered to anglers and hunters

A press release arrived in my inbox on Tuesday announcing boat limits are now allowed during the Baker Lake sockeye season. This is a change to the way most fishing is allowed in Washington State.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Sisters live up to their billing

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Aunt Kate assisted others during flu epidemic

The flu epidemic of 1918 and 1919 killed millions, so say 130 million, of people around the world. Aunt Kate assisted many of the people of the greater Big Bend Country. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Pygmy rabbit recovery efforts continue

The rabbit scampered under the boardwalk near the front door of the Grant County Historical Society Museum.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Kirchners worked wheat harvest in Eastern Washington

Many hands were once needed for the wheat harvest in Eastern Washington. Besides working the threshing rigs, meals needed to be prepared on the spot and all of the workers needed to be fed. The Kirchners were a part of several harvests while working for various thrashing outfits. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Campfire cautions are prudent

Campfires are an important part of the outdoor scene. Time spent around the fire will be remembered for a lifetime. However, besides the three essential components of fire; heat, fuel and oxygen, common sense is necessary to produce a safe campfire.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Sisters on the Fly tour tomorrow

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Aunt Kate tells of the Cleveland Panic of 1893

We are experiencing an economic crisis these days, but this is nothing similar to the Cleveland Panic of 1893. Settlers used parched wheat, rye or barley for coffee, vegetables were scarce, fruit was obtained by a trip of several days to a fruit ranch; times were tough as Aunt Kate …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Fall hunts weighs heavy on my mind

The first hunt on my agenda is the master hunter elk hunt in Elk Area 3911 and 3912, plus Game Management Unit 371,

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Food preservation classes of interest in 1950 and today too

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Release of some salmon required on upper Columbia

The release of all chinook and sockeye with external floy tags and/or with one or more holes, round, approximately 1/4 inch diameter, punched in the caudal (tail) fin is mandatory from July 1 through Oct. 15.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

The fall hunt is close at hand, time make preparations

The special hunt permit drawings have been held and the results have been published. Joe and Sam know they will be hunting branched-antlered elk,

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Sisters on the Fly coming to fairgrounds

We had the privilege of touring a few of these trailers when they were camping at Steamboat Rock State Park a few weeks ago. We will also stop by to see the trailers at this event. We can't imagine anyone would be disappointed. See you there.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Variations on camp cooking convenient

Camp cooking is an art. Not only is the cook required to prepare edible meals three times a day, the cook must contend with using a different type of heat source than used at home.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Special hunt drawing results available

The much-anticipated news for hunters who submitted applications for 2012 special-hunt permits is at hand. The results of this year's hunt permit drawing is now available on the Fish and Wildlife website.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Jonathan Burdick awarded $1,000 Daedalian scholarship

A couple of months ago, this column featured a scholarship offered by the Spokane Chapter of the Order of Daedalians, which is designated as Flight 41.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Gardening is part of my outdoor experience

My friend Bill Witt is to blame for my thoughts about gardening at this time of year. The garden is planted. Tomatoes are already flowering, sweet onions are growing and so are other vegetables.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Historical Society Museum open house tomorrow

MOSES LAKE - Go back in history.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Fishing Kids day is tomorrow

This is the perfect weekend for family fun. First attend the Fishing Kids event at Cascade Park. The cost is $5, but this is a minimal amount for the benefits received by the participants ages 5 through 14. Each angler will be entitled to a two-fish limit, a photo with …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor survival an important skill

MOSES LAKE - Those who venture into the Great Outdoors should realize the chance of becoming lost is certainly real. Once or twice a year it is my responsibility to discuss this possibility and what to do when it happens. Entire books have been published about outdoor survival. There is …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Tentative goose banding project scheduled

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Keller family part of German migration west by train

Many of the German families came west by train in the early 1900s. Many of these were part of the Russian-German, or was it German-Russian immigrants. The story of the Keller family was typical of the hard work used to establish farms and ranches in the Greater Columbia Basin. Read …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Day on refuge provides wildlife viewing opportunities

This is the second to a two-part series about a volunteer project to measure the water level of 11 lakes on the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Aunt Kate receives teaching certificate, pursues career

Aunt Kate needed to take the teachers' examination in order to pursue the job of teacher in the Big Bend Country of Eastern Washington. The trip required two days travel each way and ...well, read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Alfalfa needed for pygmy rabbit project

The following was received from James A Chandler, Wildlife Volunteer Program Manager for Fish and Wildlife:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Monthly volunteer effort requires trip through refuge

This is the first of a two-part series about a volunteer project to measure the water level of 11 lakes on the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Ray Kelby tells of special care for Granddaughter Judy

Ray Kelby tells of angling to get what he needed to support his family during his life. But he didn't need to angle for assistance from the community for support of his special needs Granddaughter Judy and he was grateful. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Special hunt permit applications deadline is midnight

The deadline is midnight tonight and the options are plenty. Special hunt permit applications are pursued as a chance to take a special animal or take part in a special hunt.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Camping with Witt family always memorable

Bill Witt proposed the event several months ago.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Atomic bombs of big concern in the Cold War era

Today we try to construct buildings to withstand the effects of earthquakes and tidal waves, but in the 1950s the concern was the Cold War and the possibility of atomic bombs hitting American cities. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Lowland Lakes Fishing Season opener results continued

Last week we didn't have room to finish the summary of the opening day results, presented by Biologist Chad Jackson. Read on for the rest of the information.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

New fishing and hunting pamphlets require study

Two new pamphlets require angler and hunter study. The new Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet became effective May 1, and will continue to be the angling guide through April 30, 2013.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Aunt Kate's letter related life on homestead

During the Grant County Centennial I came to know Aunt Kate through photos and some of her writings. Today Aunt Kate's granddaughter, Kay Evans, shares a letter Aunt Kate wrote about her experiences. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Lowland fishing season opener shows promise

Each year Fish and Wildlife published a forecast of what anglers should find in area lakes. After the opening day, they also publish a summary of the opening day results.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Experiencing days of education and friendship

Last week my wife, Garnet, and I traveled to Bend, OR to attend the 2012 Annual Northwest Outdoor Writers' Association Conference. We are both members. The drive was between six and seven hours in length, a long time on the road for us.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Time is short, but scholarship still possible

Time is short, but applying is still possible. This is a scholarship for the flight students, in the area, such as at Big Bend. If you are reading this for the first time, don't delay, but hurry to the website and apply. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Lowland lakes fishing season opens tomorrow

The big opening each year is called the lowland lakes opener. This includes Blue, Park, Deep lakes in the Sun Lakes area, plus a few others scattered around the Columbia Basin. The big day is tomorrow, April 28.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Reflections on the first camping trip

There are times when letting go of an event or adventure is difficult for me. Our first camping trip is one such case.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Kay Evans continues with history of Hartline

The history of our greater Columbia Basin towns and cities fascinates me. Today we hear more of the history of Hartline. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Crab Creek Riders mini-clinic next Saturday

Calling all members and prospective members of the Crab Creek Riders; the first event of the year is not far away. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

First camping trip to Steamboat Rock State Park

Raindrops are making a rhythmic noise at they hit the roof of the travel trailer. The pitter-patter sound provides a good, positive and secure feeling. This part of the Great Outdoors is welcome no matter if in a tent, a building with a metal roof or in our travel trailer.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

April 1 opener results continued

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Garnet stocked the trailer

This is the second part of a multi-part series about preparing the camping trailer for spring camping.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Now is the time to purchase a new fishing license

The Washington fishing license anglers had last Saturday is out of date. They expired at midnight March 31. In order to continue fishing legally, anglers 15 years of age and older must purchase a 2012-13 license. Licenses and permits are available online, by phone, at 1-866-246-9453, and from sporting goods …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Chicken killing mule provided food for Slim and his brother

Seldom does a mule provide as valuable as one Slim and his brother used to help George Horner during harvest. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Spring camping on the agenda

This is the first of a two-part series about preparing a travel trailer for spring camping.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Maj. Gen. Richardson; a chaplain using humor

On March 2, my wife, Garnet, and I traveled to Fairchild Air Force Base for lunch. This wasn't just any ordinary lunch, but, rather, 92d Air Refueling Wing 2012 National Prayer Luncheon.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Youth turkey season next weekend

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

The life of a wolf

Wolves are again living in Washington State. At the present time, there are no federal or state plans to reintroduce the animals into the state.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Sandhill Crane Festival continues through Sunday

The Greater Othello Chamber of Commerce and the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge have teamed up to bring us another Othello Sandhill Crane Festival, centered at the Othello High School. As in years past, the festival will offer a series of tours to view the birds and lectures to participants about …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Elkins' Bremerton Amtrak adventure continues

This column welcomes other travel journals from readers about their adventures around the Pacific Northwest. The story can be short or long; a fishing trip to the ocean or a camping trip to the Blue Mountains.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Five wolf packs currently in Washington

This is the second of three columns about wolves in Washington State.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Spring turkey opener one month away

The 2012 Wild Turkey Spring Season pamphlet is now available in sporting goods stores. The spring season dates are April 15 through May 31. The hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Kelby travels the world before serving as Wilson Creek Postmaster

The Rev. David H. Crawford compiled and published a history of families in and surrounding Wilson Creek titled, "Family Memories of Wilson Creek Area." The book was printed in 1978, which was the 75th anniversary of the town. David's son, John Crawford, has given permission for those memories to be …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Wolf plan is acceptable, so far

This is the first of a multi-part series about wolves in Washington.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Yamamoto wins big at Burke Lake Fishing Derby

Information is sketchy from the Quincy area about the trout derby held at nearby Burke Lake last Saturday. The big winner was Calvin Yamamoto, a Quincy resident, who caught a tagged fish worth $2,000.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

March 1 opener sees lower turnout, but still a winner

My wife, Garnet, and I drove to Martha Lake in the afternoon and found several people fishing and around seven parties with established campsites.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Burke Lake tournament scheduled for tomorrow

We would have brought this to your attention in early February, but just learned about it ourselves. The 2012 Quincy Valley Trout Derby is scheduled to begin tomorrow morning at sunrise and continue until 1 p.m.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Tormenting brother gets Slim Jolly the switch

Teasing siblings has been a family ritual since the beginning of time. Slim Jolly continued the practice and then feels the switch. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

First opening day of the year for several lakes

Today is the first day of March, yes, but it is also known as the March 1 Opener, meaning several lakes will open to fishing today.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Mr. and Mrs. Niels Johnsen immigrated from Denmark

The story of the Niels Johnsen family seems to be typical of an immigrant family arriving from a foreign country and settling in the Columbia Basin. Toward the end of the story, this may be this week or next, see if you can spot a name familiar to most people …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting two weeks away

As much as we hate going to meetings, this one may be of interest to all outdoor-minded people, especially those who hunt and fish, but also those who are interested in the wolf situation.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Year 21 completed, on to year 22

The Columbia Basin contains an abundance of activities for outdoor-minded people. Hunting, fishing, birding, camping, hiking, geocaching, biking, wildlife viewing to name a few. My job has been to help you, the reader, learn more about these activities and how to participate.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Harmless pranks can provide chuckles for all

During the past four weeks several pranks have been presented in the Thursday outdoors column. Others have contributed pranks they have pulled on others or experienced themselves.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Today is first day of the Great Backyard Bird Count

The 2012 Great Backyard Bird Count begins today. The count will last for four days with the last day on Monday, Feb. 20. This count is a big deal in our book. It is a chance to participate in an international event and the rules only require a participant to …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Great backyard bird count only one week away

MOSES LAKE - Mark your calendar: Friday, Feb. 17 through Monday, Feb. 20. These are the dates of the 15th annual Great Backyard Bird Count. The event is a joint effort lead by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. Other partners include Bird Studies Canada and …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Sheriff Jones to speak at the Heritage Meeting next Tuesday

If you have found a bit of time on your hands and need a worthwhile effort to explore, check out the Grant County Historical Society. The monthly board meeting is coming up next week followed by the Heritage Meeting. The public is invited and encouraged to attend both meetings. Read …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Appropriate co-conspirators necessary

This is the third of a four-part series about fun and harmless pranks.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Elsie James attended the Hoover School near Krupp

We elders have heard stories of attending one-room schools when our grandparents were growing up, 80 to 100 years ago. The potbellied stove was used to keep the room warm. The teacher used it to warm Elsie's feet. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Wildlife viewing, upcoming bird count makes for family-oriented fun

We beat the drum for wildlife viewing often. The activity is interesting and fun, plus it is suitable for a young family. The upcoming Backyard bird count is also a fun time and lasts for four days. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Setting up my best prank ever

Over the years, from the time I was a youngster, to recent days, many pranks, tricks, shenanigans, jokes and hoaxes have taken place within my viewing range. Most have been a part of family fun, but not all.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Service at parking business provides breath of fresh air

My wife, Garnet, and I believe in follow and observe the "Shop Locally" slogan. However, there are times when conducting business 100 miles away from home is necessary, such as needing to leave our vehicle in Spokane during an out-of-town trip.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Duck, goose hunting ends this Sunday

The bird hunting seasons are coming to an end, but other seasons continue for a few more days to a couple of months. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Harmless pranks; a family tradition

This is the first of a three-part series about harmless family pranks.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Grant County enjoyed fun on the ice in the 1940s

The Herald recorded fun on the ice of Moses Lake during the 1940s. We could be having the same type of fun, if only our winters were a bit colder. Not sure I want it to happen, but there was sure fun on the ice through the 1960s. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Public meetings to discuss northeast elk plan

Fish and Wildlife has scheduled three meetings to discuss and take public comment on the draft northeast Washington elk management plan. The plan which has been revised and is subject to additional revision in response to hunter input regarding elk numbers.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Master Hunter application period now open

The Master Hunter Permit Program application period is now open and will continue through Feb. 15. All requirements of the program must be completed by Nov. 15 of this year. Look for complete MHPP details in next week's outdoors column.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Skating on the lake was once a common pastime

Who else remembers skating parties on Moses Lake? When in high school it was a common practice to head out to Ed Ibe's house where we would scrape the snow from the ice, build a fire in a 55-gallon drum, drink hot chocolate and try to stay upright on the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

A chance to give back to the outdoors

Readers who have followed this column for a few years will know the first column of each year is a call to arms.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Make the best of 2012

MOSES LAKE - With 2011 winding down fast and 2012 heading our way, take a few minutes to reflect on the old year, but concentrate on the new year. Think of ways to make your actions positive. When faced with a negative situation change it to a positive situation. Just …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Jan. 2 is last day for hatchery steelhead, whitefish angling

MOSES LAKE - Impact on wild steelhead is given as the reason for the closures of hatchery steelhead and whitefish fishing on the upper Columbia River and several tributaries. The last day for these fisheries will be Jan. 2 from Rock Island Dam to Chief Joseph Dam, as well as …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

The end of another good year

Wow, an entire 52 weeks have passed since writing the last end-of-year column. This is an annual event and provides a chance to reflect on the events of the past year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Howard Hirschel remembers dust storm of 1931

Wilson Creek History

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Payne or Paine found, lost again

The story last week, about Dave Helms finding a sit of shooting sticks at the Boyd Mordhorst Shooting Range, was productive. Payne or Paine called me. He did tell me several of his friends have contacted him about the story in this column last week and he was, indeed, the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Last-minute Christmas shopping is at hand

Life in the Columbia Basin is full of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Fishing, bird watching, camping, outdoor cooking, hunting, wildlife viewing all are possible and most of these undertakings can be accomplished during the same trip.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

U.S. Highway 10 in Cle Elum paved in 1949

While this column doesn't usually wander too far from the Columbia Basin, there are times when it is interesting to do so. Imagine a time when smaller Washington State towns had only dirt streets. Now imagine as these towns, one by one, paved the downtown streets or at least one …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Still plenty of time to shop for outdoor-minded people

This is the third of a four-part series about Christmas gifts for outdoors-minded people.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Use caution when on the ice

Ice fishing can be fun. Erect a shelter of some sort and spend the day fishing for trout, walleye, bass, perch, burbot and any other finned creature available in Columbia Basin waters.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Howard Robert Hirschel recalls growing up with Grandpa Adam

Wilson Creek History

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Christmas shopping deadline 17 days away

This is the second of a four-part series about Christmas gifts for outdoors-minded people.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Ed Harvill's home in Ephrata grew as he did

Columbia Basin history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Plan now for wildlife viewing, Christmas Bird Count

A favorite family-oriented outdoor activity is wildlife watching. A favorite annual trip for my wife, Garnet, and me is a trip to Steamboat Rock State Park for this very reason.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Christmas 25 days away: enjoy the shopping

This is the first of a four-part series about Christmas gifts for outdoors-minded people.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Thankful, yes

Simply put, I'm thankful to be alive.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Master Hunter Program

What is the Master Hunter Permit Program? As stated by Fish and Wildlife: "The Master Hunter Permit Program is designed to promote responsible hunting. In addition to training, the program emphasizes safe, lawful and ethical hunting priorities while upholding the highest standards. The program offers an opportunity for conscientious, committed …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Master Hunter Advisory Group seeks members

Fish and Wildlife is accepting letters of interest through Dec. 18 for membership on the department's Master Hunter Advisory Group.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Discover Pass volunteer projects continue to be elusive

The rules state: Volunteers who work 24 hours or more on approved projects are eligible for a complimentary Discover Pass.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Outdoor lovers share similar interests

This is the second of a two-part series about a 2006 wildlife-related survey.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 12 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Northern birds still absent in the Columbia Basin

Latest waterfowl news to reach this desk indicates waterfowl hunters are still waiting for the northern birds to reach the Columbia Basin. This means the ducks are on the way, but the bulk have not arrived.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Upcoming hunting seasons

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Hunters on the decline

This is a two-part series about the future of hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Youth Outdoors Auction pays off big dividends

All of us want to assist our youth learn about the Great Outdoors. Sometimes several people combine efforts with the results benefiting several youth. Such an effort is explained below. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Cooking in the Great Outdoors

It has been said many times, "Food tastes better in the outdoors." The assessment is easy to agree with, of course, but the reason the statement may be true includes several possible details.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Success great, depending upon location

From local biologists about the opening weekend, Oct. 15 and 16

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

John Dills recounts stories about bachelor homesteaders

Wilson Creek History

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Death was only a heartbeat away from my kill

This is the last of a two-part series about deer hunting 2011.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Comments requested about upcoming sportfishing season

Fish and Wildlife is requesting written public comments through Dec. 30 on rule proposals for the 2012-13 sportfishing season in Washington. Besides written comments, public meetings have been scheduled to discuss the rule proposals and accept comments.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

John Dills recounts stories about bachelor homesteaders

Columbia Basin history

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Coho salmon fishery continues

The coho salmon fisheries, which opened Oct. 5, continue on the Wenatchee, Methow and Icicle rivers through a scheduled closure of Oct. 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Annual deer camp as beautiful, magical as ever

This is the first of a two-part series about deer hunting in 2011.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS AGO

Several hunting seasons open on Saturday

This is it, the opening of several hunting seasons, such as:

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Lunch with the Troops; second to the last event

The next Lunch with the Troops event will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 18 from 11:30 to 1 p.m. The luncheon will take place at the Porterhouse Steakhouse in Moses Lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

The excitement of preparing for the hunt

MOSES LAKE - The modern firearm deer hunting season begins this Saturday in most of Washington State. Hunters may use a modern firearm, archery equipment or a muzzleloader during this hunt.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Checking on essential items for a hunting backpack

A hunter needs to have certain items along on a hunt. A knife is the most important, but some type of rope or twine is also necessary. Besides these two items, there are a bunch of other equipment, which may be deemed nice-to-have items, but are less than essential.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Memories of the reverand reveal the first local motorhome

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Quincy Valley Pikeminnow Derby is a success

MOSES LAKE - The volunteers for the First Quincy Valley Pikeminnow Derby say the effort was a success. There were 135 anglers registered. No tagged fish were caught for the big money. However $5,000 was awarded for other reasons.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Fourth of July celebrated with gusto in early 1900s

New immigrants to the United States and to the Big Bend Country of Eastern Washington celebrated the Fourth of July in style. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Wolf meeting set in Ellensburg Aug. 29

The number of wolf packs in Washington State is increasing, we know this as reported by Fish and Wildlife. So what are we going to do about it? The wolf plan continues to be formulated and we trust a wolf hunting season will eventually be established. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Hunting season close at hand, time to prepare

MOSES LAKE - Today and the next four days have a forecast high of 90 degrees or higher. This is followed by three days of highs in the 80s. The September forecast shows several days with highs of 80 degrees, but more in the high 70s, moving to the low …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Annual Ducks Unlimited banquet set for Sept. 8

The Ducks Unlimited mission: "Ducks Unlimited conserves, restores, and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America's waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people."

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Results of fair is part of Grant County history

The 2011 Grant County Fair has one more day and then it will be history, recounted in the pages of the Columbia Basin Herald and other Columbia Basin newspapers. The winners of the various competitions will be listed, with others vowing to do better next year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Next week is 'Fair and rodeo time!'

MOSES LAKE - The Grant County Fair and Rodeo is a magical time for young and old alike. But the rodeo wasn't always under lights. Nope. The first time was in 1949. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Buy now save big; license fees increase Sept. 1

MOSES LAKE - Like it or not, it will cost more for some of the license fees will increase. Yes we can all gripe a bit, but this is the first increase in more than 10 years. Still we consider the cost of the license fees to be a good …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Sniper training may help in hunting situations

MOSES LAKE - The buck was standing on the top edge of a knoll, land the hunter did not have permission to hunt. The hunter also overestimated the distance from his position to the deer. I know, because the bullets were whizzing over my head.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

The Hirschels sent their children to Timm District School

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Triploid escapees potential hazard to steelhead

The Fish and Wildlife press release sounded a bit desperate. "A 17-mile stretch of the Columbia River between Bridgeport and Brewster, Washington, is about to become a hotspot for triploid trout fishing."

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Thoughts about long-range shooting

MOSES LAKE - The thought of hitting a target at 500 yards intrigues me. Hitting the target consistently amazes me. Yet the situation to try both was offered last week and I took advantage of it.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Typical July: hot fishing expected; shooting enjoyed

MOSES LAKE - Our normal Columbia Basin summer warmwater fishery is heating up. But don't forget salmon fishing on the Columbia River, which is a fairly new event. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

The Colonels Guemmer are resilient anglers

MOSES LAKE - This is the first of a two-part series about fishing with the Colonels Guemmer.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Col. Guemmer expected to attend Lunch with the Troops

This month's Lunch with the Troops event has all of the elements to produce a best-of-the-year luncheon. While each of the monthly gatherings has been special simply because a bunch of us civilian folk has been able to visit with and buy an airman a lunch, this month is extra …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Raffle Permit Hunt deadline a week away

Yes, we hammered this last week, but this is the last week, as we want to make sure readers don't miss out on this opportunity.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

So you want to be a wildlife photographer...

MOSES LAKE - The notion sounds interesting, fun and, yes, even romantic: Become a wildlife photographer. A person can carry the idea a step further and become a wildlife filmmaker as well.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

The weed program emphasized by Jeff Janke

Last week, on Thursday, June 30, we featured the last gardening column for 2011. Space limitations did not allow us to run the last bit of information from Jeff Janke. We feature his last bit of advice on weed control today. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Deadline for Raffle Permit Hunts is in two weeks

Yes, we hammered this last week and we will again next week, but we want to make sure readers don't miss out on this opportunity.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Wolves, other wild critters abound

MOSES LAKE - The series of sounds were haunting and certainly unforgettable. The pitch went up, then down. It sounded again and I knew it was not a coyote, which can be heard frequently around the Columbia Basin. My coyote experiences have the animal voicing a series of barks along …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Columbia River dams help prevent flooding

Thank goodness we have Columbia River dams. These dams provide us with electricity, which is especially evident right here in Grant County, because our county's public utility district owns two of the dams, Wanapum and Priest Rapids, and our electrical cost is less than we might otherwise experience.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Raffle Permit Hunts deadline three weeks away

MOSES LAKE - The Washington State Raffle Permit Hunts deadline is July 22. Our way of thinking about this opportunity is to consider it a gamble, yes, but one where we can spend as much money as we want. Another way of thinking is to consider it a tax where …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Discover Pass goes into effect July 1

MOSES LAKE - Open your wallet, it will cost more to visit state parks and other recreational lands in Washington State after July 1. As reported last week, the Discover Pass will be required to access certain recreational areas in the state.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Special hunt drawing results now available online

Hunters who are waiting for the results of the special hunt drawing need wait no more. The 2011 special-hunt permits drawing results are available on line at the Fish and Wildlife website.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Lunch with the Troops next scheduled for Tuesday

The Monthly Lunch with the Troops event for June is scheduled for next Tuesday, June, 21. The luncheon will take place at the Porterhouse Steakhouse in Moses Lake from noon to 1 p.m.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Fair Centennial Committee seeking members

A Grant County Fair Centennial Committee has been formed, but we want to invite members of the public to join us. Give me a call at 762-5158 or 750-0541.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

The Spencer Report

Life has been busy lately, sorry for the late report. In April I went through Hunter's safety course with my sister, Skylar. We did really good. I got 100 percent on my written test. We had a great time shooting at the gun range in Ephrata to end our Hunter's …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Youth Outdoors Unlimited welcomes their next hunter

Youth Outdoors Unlimited is excited to welcome their next hunter into the Y.O.U. family. Justin Ristine from Lake Stevens will be hunting this fall with Youth Outdoors Unlimited. Justin was born with one arm, but continues to be a great example of how you can learn to do anything in …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Grant County Historical Society

The Grant County Historical Society has compiled several volumes of Grant County history. The books are available for purchase at the Historical Society Museum gift shop in Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Wind River

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

And another reciting report from Drano Lake

The daily limit at Drano Lake has increased for hatchery spring chinook salmon. Up to six hatchery spring chinook may be retained. Up to four may be adult chinook. The limit increase is in effect from yesterday through July 31.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

YOU Program continues to recruit Columbia Basin youth

The YOU Program is a non-profit group organized to take youth who have been diagnosed with a life threatening illness and/or disability and who have a dream to hunt or fish on their own outdoor adventure.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Fishing remains good in the Columbia Basin

Grab your rod, pick a fishing spot and enjoy a day on the water. Reports from various sources indicate fishing remains good to hot, depending upon the weather, of course.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Lunch with the Troops

Don't forget: The next Lunch with the Troops luncheon will be held at the Porterhouse Steakhouse in Moses Lake next Tuesday, May 24 from noon to 1 p.m.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Wolves remain protected in Washington State

Wolves have been removed from federal Endangered Species Act protection in the eastern third of Washington State, but they remain protected as a state endangered species throughout Washington.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Fish and Wildlife

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Snohomish County Museums and classmates

MOSES LAKE - Leaving the wide-open spaces of Eastern Washington to the jam-packed territory we know as Western Washington is difficult for my wife, Garnet, and me. Perhaps not all of the areas on the other side of the Cascade Mountains are jam-packed, but the region certainly seems more congested …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Grant County Historical Society

The Grant County Historical Society has compiled several volumes of Grant County history. The books are available for purchase at the Historical Society Museum gift shop in Ephrata.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Special hunt permits for fall animals due next week

It is difficult to think about the fall hunting season when the spring weather is just beginning to show signs of warming, but hunters need to pay attention.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Wilson Creek history

The Rev. David H. Crawford compiled and published a history of families in and surrounding Wilson Creek titled, "Family Memories of Wilson Creek Area." The book was printed in 1978, which was the 75th anniversary of the town. David's son, John Crawford, has given permission for those memories to be …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Pygmy rabbit recovery effort renewed in Basin

Renewed field efforts to recover endangered Columbia Basin pygmy rabbits are under way this spring in eastern Washington shrub-steppe habitat.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Next lunch with the Troops is set for May 24

The April Lunch with the Troops event was a huge success with over 60 people attending at the Porterhouse Steakhouse. Rock 'n' Roll Legend and hunting enthusiast Ted Nugent called during the lunch to talk with the troops and lead the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Whale watching out of Everett a huge success

MOSES LAKE - When growing up in Moses Lake, Mom, my sister, Denise, and I were invited to Las Angeles by my Uncle Vern. The idea was to visit Disneyland and Marineland of the Pacific. What's more we traveled by train all the way leaving from Ritzville, as this was …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

The Hutcheson boys were nearly seven feet tall

The Grant County Historical Society will hold it's monthly board meeting Tuesday, May 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ephrata American Legion Post Number 28. The Heritage meeting will follow with Jim Bennett as the featured guest speaker.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Geer explores Boeing museum, manufacturing plant

This is the first of a three-part series about a week on the coast of Washington State.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Where the fish are: 2011 fishing prospects

The most constant factor in any opening day of fishing is the weather.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Birding trip reveals seven golden eagles

Birding

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Great wildlife viewing in Basin

MOSES LAKE - This is the first of a two-part series about wildlife viewing in the Basin.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Spring thoughts bouncing around my mind

MOSES LAKE - Spring is official, at least on the calendar. We still have until May 15 before the average last frost date has come and gone. But one thing for sure is the fact daytime temperatures will continue to warm and before long summer will arrive.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Fishing on opener lakes still good

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Trailer camping hints requested for upcoming articles

A couple of years ago, a series of trailer camping tips were offered in the Columbia Basin Herald. A reader called and offered a few more tips, but I was busy at the time and was to call him back. In the meantime, I lost his telephone number.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Fishing opener Tuesday, Martha and Caliche lakes are good bets

The weather, it all depends upon the weather.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

SOAP OPERA ICON ENJOYS THE GREAT OUTDOORS

"Don't get married to this guy," Katherine said from the screen. "You know nothing about him."

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

No clear answer to all ethics scenarios

MOSES LAKE - This is the second of a two-part series about hunting ethics.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Master Hunter applications accepted until February

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Tour of Buck Knife factory educational

MOSES LAKE - Sometimes a day away from school provides an assortment of learning experiences in a true-life setting. Such was the case last Monday when Ted Mead, a 14-year-old attending Royal City Middle School, spent several hours in Post Falls, Idaho.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Cindy Carpenter provides update on YOU program

How do new worthwhile programs get started? Cindy Carpenter will

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Giving is the Clay Feats theme of the year

Interesting how themes become a part of a column. The three or four weeks before Christmas feature Christmas gifts. The last of the year article recaps the writings of the year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Steelhead still hot on Upper Columbia

Anton Jones has been busy on the Upper Columbia River and Rufus Woods Lake. Read on.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Reflecting on the past year

MOSES LAKE - The past 364 days have been great with many outdoor-related opportunities presented and many acted upon. It's time to reflect a bit.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Colockum elk winter range closures subject of Jan. 6 meeting

Fish and Wildlife staff will discuss Colockum elk herd research

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Horses trained to get up only when told to do so in 1917

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 13 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

First deer report suggests below average harvest

The first report from the opening weekend of modern firearm

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS AGO

School names should honor local icons

GUEST EDITORIAL

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Ducks have yet to make appearance

Word on the street is the long-awaited flight of northern ducks

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Turkey Hunt A Success

Welcome. So here we are at the blog. Feel free to comment and add your take on the content. This should be a great way for readers and friends to visit about the outdoor scene and life in general.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

It's walleye time again; snagging illegal

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Gorrell, Loss find Rufus Woods pleasing in February

Ed Gorrell and Glen Loss headed for Rufus Woods Lake a couple of times in February and limited on triploid rainbow trout.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Growth mystery solved; monofilament fishing line cause

MOSES LAKE - Monofilament fishing line has recently been found to cause a strange growth in trout. The link was first detected at various Columbia Basin lakes and even in Crab Creek and Rocky Ford Creek several years ago.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Second fishing opener scheduled for next week

Region Two Fish Manager Jeff Korth has sent along the prospects

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Trip to gun range provides new insights

MOSES LAKE - My wife, Garnet, and I begin planning to attend the four-day-long SHOT Show six month before arriving in Las Vegas. We make airline and hotel reservations and we prefer to fly on Alaska and stay at the Stratosphere.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Sick bighorns to be removed from Yakima River Canyon

This is simply a darn shame. Wild sheep have had their problems throughout the Pacific Northwest from time to time and now sheep in the Yakima River Canyon are affected.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Hunting seasons dwindling, but fishing continues

We are fortunate to live in the Columbia Basin. People from around the State of Washington and other states in the Pacific Northwest travel great distances to camp, fish, hunt and watch wildlife in Grant and the surrounding counties.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Plan to set stage now, for coming year

MOSES LAKE - Go forth into the great outdoors, experience fantastic adventures, but contribute and be a factor in the education of others.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Taking one final, fond look back at 2009

MOSES LAKE - It's time to pause and look back at the past year through the outdoors window. The past 12 months offered many fruitful outings and corresponding memories. It was a great year.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Fog hampers duck, goose hunting

The recent days of fog, or has it been weeks, has made duck and goose hunting difficult recently. One goose day saw no geese for a friend who traveled to the Columbia Basin for a hunt.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Being a successful goose-hunting guide requires work and know-how

A goose guiding operation requires plenty of ground to hunt, gobs of decoys and guides who know how to blow a goose call. Luck has little to contribute to the process.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 14 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Deer hunting season begins Saturday

The modern rifle deer season begins on Saturday, Oct. 17 and remains open through Oct. 27. Good luck to all of the hunters. Have fun, but be careful out there. Oh yeah, let me know how you do in the great outdoors. I'm always looking for photos to post here.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 15 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

The Carter family; 100 years in Washington

Herald Columnist

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Class of 1965 reunion

Herald Columnist

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO

Second mystery photo

Herald Columnist

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO

E-mail from Cheryl

Herald Columnist

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO

From Robert Kent

Herald Columnist

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO

Song dogs pleasant to hear, but not too close to home

The two dogs, one a German Shepard and the other a black lab, were standing beside the road and on top of a 10-foot high basalt cliff. Both were panting hard with their tongues hanging out. They were looking for something as their heads moved left and right, scanning the …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

6 24 05 NRA president explains new fight for average hunter

Tuesday morning I had the honor to have breakfast with Kayne Robinson, the president of the National Rifle Association. It wasn't that we were seated across the table from each other, but rather, we were in the same room with about 500 fellow members of the Outdoor Writers Association of …

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

6 4 04 Three upcoming events important to outdoor-minded people

The Columbia Basin isn't lacking exciting events during the late spring and early summer. We have already had two walleye tournaments, one on Potholes Reservoir and the other on Banks Lake.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

5 13 04 A hodgepodge of outdoor activities make for a busy spring

The old saying about time flying by is certainly true this spring. At one point I was anxious for winter to release its grip on the landscape. Today I want time to slow, so the pleasant spring weather could be prolonged.

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Two weekend events deemed a success; Women in the Outdoors and the opening day of the lowland lakes fishing season

First annual WITO program

COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

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