Things change over time. Most noticeable is my gray hair and slower step. But change is constant, and not always for the bad. This is also true with conservation organizations.
The local chapter of Pheasants Forever has decided to take on a new face and role after 23 years. The Rathbun Lake Chapter of Pheasants Forever will now become the Rathbun Lake Chapter of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. Pheasants Forever’s mission is dedicated to the protection and enhancement of pheasants and other wildlife populations in North America. Founded in 1982 in response to the continuing decline of ring-necked pheasant populations, Pheasants Forever works to accomplish its mission through habitat improvements, public awareness, education and land management policies and programs.
Pheasants Forever launched Quail Forever in August of 2005 to address the continuing loss of suitable habitat for quail and the subsequent quail population decline. Bobwhite population losses over the last 25 years range from 60 to 90 percent across the country. The reason for the quail population plunge is simple. It is due to the massive loss of habitat suitable for quail. There are five major factors leading to the loss of quail habitat: Intensified farming and forestry practices, succession of grassland ecosystems turned into forest, the overwhelming presence of exotic grasses like fescue that choke out wildlife and urban sprawl.
At the heart of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever is the unique grassroots system of fundraising and project development that allows members to see direct results of their contributions. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever empower county chapters with the responsibility of determining how 100 percent of their locally raised funds will be spent. This is the only national conservation organization that operates by this grassroots structure. As a result, chapter volunteers are able to see the fruits of their efforts locally, while belonging to a larger national organization with a voice on federal and state conservation policy.
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever members are a diversified group of hunters, non-hunters, farmers, ranchers, landowners, conservation enthusiasts and wildlife officials. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are for those who want to make a difference for wildlife by creating habitat, restoring wetlands and prairies.
Currently, there are over 650 Pheasants Forever Chapters across the United States and Canada, accounting for 115,000 current members. There are more than 100 Quail Forever chapters in the United States accounting for 5,000 members.
Our neighboring county to the east, Davis County, has just become the third Quail Forever chapter in Iowa. The Rathbun Lake Chapter of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever will continue to work with the Appanoose County Wildlife Coalition to ensure our county residents are getting the most out of every dollar raised and spent locally.
Local News
Two outdoor organizations join forces
The Rathbun Lake Chapter Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever banquet is March 13 at the Manhattan Restaurant. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. and live auction at 8 p.m. For tickets contact Keane Maddy at (641) 895-6188 or Justin Zaputil at (641) 895-6283.
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Ty Stewart receives 2012 Kent Rinaberger Award
Howar Junior High eighth grader, Ty Stewart, accepts the 2012 Kent Rinaberger Award.
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Threat to resign does not materialize
Centerville Street Department Superintendent Ron Creagan did not submit a written resignation as promised on Monday, May 14.
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Grow Centerville meeting
Grow Centerville would like to invite the public to attend a Main Street Iowa Town Meeting, Tuesday, May 22 at 6 p.m. at the Majestic Theater Ballroom.
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Wapello County trail rides
The Wapello County Trails Council will host rides on the newest trail loop on Saturday, May 19, during their annual Mediathon fundraiser. The rides will be on an electric buggy, courtesy of Jefferson County Park. These rides will be limited to persons who are unable to access the trails, including the handicapped and the elderly only.
Rides will originate in the John Deere parking lot near the Madison St. entrance starting at 10 a.m. and ending at noon. Donations will be accepted. -
Centerville Fire department conducts training on electric and hybrid vehicles
On Tuesday, May 8 members of the Centerville Fire Department conducted a training class on hybrid and electric vehicles.
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Wayne County judges sentence Promise City husband, wife
A husband and wife from rural Promise City in Wayne County both avoided time in prison after recent felony drug convictions and sentencing.
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Planning complete for Flight 11 Remembrance Service
Before a large crowd in Centerville on April 23, the Appanoose County Historical Society revisited the Flight 11 tragedy with a video presentation to mark 50 years since the crash.
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Centerville High School senior awards May 14
Award winners from Monday night's senior awards night at the Centerville High School.
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Funds from ACCF
The deadline for applications for funds from the Appanoose County Community Fund is Friday, May 18 at 3 p.m. Applications may be found at the AEDC web site appanoosecounty.org and dropped off at 101 W. Van Buren, Suite 1, Centerville.
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Band fundraiser
Centerville High School band students who are participating in the concert tour of Europe will be pumping gas and washing windows for tips as a fundraiser at Casey's at West Maple and Highway 2 on Saturday, May 19 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
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Rathbun Lake Area YMCA
Red Rays summer swim team registration deadline is May 22.
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Food giveaway
Food through Faith food giveaway at Centerville Baptist Fellowship Church, 1409 S. Main St. in Centerville, is May 25 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. All are welcome.
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Mystic royalty
Miss Mystic, Little Miss or Princess applications can be picked up at Mystic City Hall. Deadline to return applications is June 15. Mystic's July 4 celebration is scheduled for June 30.
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Wayne County man dies in two-vehicle accident
Jack M. Miner, 82, of Corydon, was killed in a two-vehicle accident May 13 on Highway 5 south of Albia.
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Veteran supper
Moravia American Legion Auxiliary's annual beef and noodle supper is May 18 to "Jump Start" Moravia's Poppy Week of May 20-26. Serving time starts at 5 p.m. in the community building. A free will offering will be accepted. All proceeds used for veteran programs in Iowa.
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