HB 4279-DNR-RECREATIONAL BOAT FUNDING - Illinois 100th General Assembly

House Sponsors
Rep. Jerry Costello, II

Filed: HB 4279 on 1/18/2018

Synopsis As Introduced:Amends the Department of Natural Resources Act. Provides that the Department of Natural Resources has the authority to accept, receive, and administer on behalf of the State, federal grant funds associated with the development or preservation of recreational boating infrastructure on this State's waterways and distribute those funds as prescribed by the appropriate federal agency. Provides that funds received by the Department shall be deposited into the Natural Resources Federal Boating Infrastructure Grant Dollars Fund and used for these purposes. Makes conforming changes in the State Finance Act.

Last Actions:

• 1/18/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 1/19/2018 House First Reading
• 1/19/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 2/5/2018 House Assigned to Revenue & Finance Committee
• 2/14/2018 House To Growth, Reform & Fairness Subcommittee
• 3/1/2018 House Recommends Do Pass Subcommittee/ Revenue & Finance Committee; 004-000-000
• 3/1/2018 House Reported Back To Revenue & Finance Committee;
• 3/1/2018 House Do Pass / Short Debate Revenue & Finance Committee; 008-000-000
• 3/1/2018 House Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
• 3/6/2018 House Second Reading - Short Debate
• 3/6/2018 House Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate
• 3/7/2018 House Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 106-000-000
• 3/7/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Jerry Lee Long
• 3/7/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Christian L. Mitchell
• 3/7/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. David A. Welter
• 3/9/2018 Senate Arrive in Senate
• 3/9/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of First Reading
• 3/9/2018 Senate Chief Senate Sponsor Sen. Chris Nybo
• 3/9/2018 Senate First Reading
• 3/9/2018 Senate Referred to Assignments

HB 4487 - Funding State Parks through Lottery Game - Illinois 100th General Assembly

House Sponsor
Rep. John M. Cabello

Filed: HB 4487 on 1/31/2018

Synopsis As Introduced:
Amends the Illinois Lottery Law. Requires the Department of the Lottery, beginning on January 1, 2019 or as soon thereafter as is practical, to offer a special instant scratch-off game for the purposes of upkeep, maintenance, and improvements to Illinois State and local parks. Provides that the net revenue from the special instant scratch-off game must be deposited into the Illinois Parks Scratch-off Fund. Provides that the moneys deposited in the Fund shall be used by the Department of Natural Resources for upkeep, maintenance, and improvements to Illinois State and local parks, including grants for those purposes. Authorizes the Department of the Lottery to adopt rules necessary to implement and administer the game. Defines "net revenue". Amends the State Finance Act to create the Illinois Parks Scratch-off Fund. Effective immediately.

Last Actions:

• 1/31/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. John M. Cabello
• 2/2/2018 House First Reading
• 2/2/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/7/2018 House Assigned to Revenue & Finance Committee

2017 -2018 Preliminary Numbers for Illinois Deer Season

The Illinois DNR released their preliminary numbers which concludes the 2017 -2018 Illinois Whitetail Season.   This year, hunters harvested 147,535 during ALL of the seasons, an increase in 3,232 from the 2016 - 2017 season.  The only decline in numbers were during the youth season, a drop of about 1,100.

If you're wondering specifics on the crossbow numberswe'll have more information coming to you later.

Illinois’ 2017-18 Deer Seasons Conclude with Preliminary Harvest of 147,535 Deer

Natural Resources Advisory Board of Illinois

Over the past several years, Capitol Outdoors has been attending NRAB meetings. Now, if you haven't heard of NRAB don't worry, 99% of hunters and anglers haven't. NRAB stands for the Natural Resources Advisory Board and according to the DNR is as follows:

The Advisory Board is statutorily created to advise the agency on long range policies to assist in guiding the protection and conservation of renewable resources of the state and recommend changes in hunting and trapping seasons and bag or possession limits. They also recommend to the Director which projects receive funding in bike, boat, and Open Space Lands Aquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant programs. Members serve six year terms and are appointed by the Governor. The Board holds quarterly meetings with time allotted for public comment on any topic.

In other words, NRAB hears proposals from the DNR and other constituents in order to recommend changes within hunting and fishing seasons, as well as our state parks.

Each quarter NRAB meets to discuss what has happened in the last few months and to discuss any of those possible changes.

Over these past years as we have attended these meetings Capitol Outdoors has realized how there is a gap in how this information travels to the public.  That is why starting at the first 2018 meeting of NRAB we will be broadcasting these meetings live on our Facebook.  This is so that you the hunter, angler and outdoor enthusiast are given the opportunity to be as informed as possible.
   

2018 Meeting Dates: 

January 22nd - IDNR Headquarters, Springfield, IL - Meeting Agenda

April 30th - IDNR Headquarters, Springfield, IL

July 30th - IDNR Headquarters, Springfield, IL

November 19th - To Be Determined - Whittington, IL - 11:00 a.m.

Want to know who is on the Board?

Natural Resources Advisory Board

*Information provided on this website is outdated.  Way to go Illinois!  We've reached out to the IDNR  to get an updated list and roll calls with no response.

Be sure to tune in Monday at 3 p.m. CST to see what NRAB is all about.

January 2018 Illinois DNR Newsbits

Lots happening during the month of January 2018. 

Illinois DNR Newsbits – January 2018

Spring Turkey Applications: There is still time for hunters to apply for the second lottery for 2018 Illinois Spring Wild Turkey Season permits. The application deadline for the second lottery is Jan. 11. Go to the IDNR website for more information at https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/TurkeyHunting.aspx

Illinois Department of Natural Resources Continues with Controlled Pheasant Season Extension.

Hunting for us here at Capitol  Outdoors usually consists of waders, decoys and all the rest of the equipment that is involved in a successful waterfowl hunt.  However, this year we've taken a new course.  Several years ago we got Linc, our red Labrador retriever.  After several waterfowl hunts I began to realize something, Linc is not a waterfowl dog.  His drive and determination pushes him and he is an amazing upland game dog and his personality fits this extremely well.

You could imagine my excitement when the Illinois Department of Natural Resources decided to extend the controlled pheasant season.  Granted this had been done in the past but, each year is a little different and I'm excited that they decided to do it again.  Below you'll see the three parks where they decided to extend this season.  

Controlled Pheasant Seasons Extended at Three IDNR Sites

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is extending controlled pheasant hunting seasons at three IDNR sites. Hunters can make reservations now for additional hunting opportunities.

Farm Bill Forums Being Held for Sportsmen and Women

Keeping you informed from the Legislative Floors to the Great Outdoors means taking advantage of opportunities like this in order to better educate oneself.  Sportsmen and women have been invited to attend a forum on the Farm Bill.  Many of you may know how the Farm Bill plays an important role in conservation here in Illinois.   These forums are being held by the Theodore Reosevelt Conservation Partners and the Illinois Conservation Foundation which they've entitled "Illinois Sportsmen's Guide to the 2018 Farm Bill".

Inside Illinois' DNR January 2018

Below is a message from Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Wayne Rosenthal.  As the Director states January 2018 is still a great time to enjoy the outdoors.  Unfortunately, he forgets to mention the remaining days of hunting season, ice fishing season and outdoor shows throughout Illinois which all contribute greatly to our economy and small businesses.

A Message from Director Wayne Rosenthal -

Deer Harvest Totals Continue into 2018

While many of us were thinking ice fishing, there were those that use the Late Winter and Special CWD Deer Season to harvest one more buck or doe, or in some cases maybe just get one for the season.

In the grand scheme of things total numbers are up for the season but the Late & CWD Season numbers are down.  Most likely due to the frigid temperatures. 

What die-hards put their thermal underwear to a test in the tree stand this past week?  Comment below. 

Below you'll see the updated 2017 - 2018 Illinois Archery Deer Season and 17/18 Illinois Late Winter Anterless-Only and Special CWD deer season.  

New Illinois Outdoor Legislation Regarding Hunting and Fishing effective January 1, 2018

During the first year of the 100th General Assembly talks were mostly about the budget, however there were some hunting and fishing related bills that passed.   Below you will find those that are effective January 1, 2018.  One of the major bills that passed this General Assembly was the Crossbow bill, however that became effective immediately, so we did not include that and others that had an immediate effective date.  If you would like to learn more about these, click here.

The second year of this General Assembly might be slow going until after the March primary then you may see things start picking up again.  However, as in every election year there may be hot button issues brought up to get that recorded vote or both chambers will be quiet and contend to only issues of less controversy, only time will tell.  Be sure and follow us as we keep you informed from the Legislative Floors to the Great Outdoors.

Tracker Releases New boat for 40th Anniversary

If you have a Facebook account it was hard not to see the sponsored ads by Tracker Boats for their 40th Anniversary boat. Each day they had a new post dropping the price a little each day until December 15th.  On that day they revealed the final price, along with the specs and what the boat included.  In front of a large crowd legend Johnny Morris, Bill Dance, Roland Martin and Jimmy Houston revealed the 40th Heritage Edition Tracker Boat.

Tracker Boats' staple to fame is to have an angler be able to purchase a boat with an electronic, a trolling motor and outboard at an easy to afford price.  Johnny Morris along with the team at Tracker Boats did just that!  For $9,995 including the trailer, this unique retro looking boat will have anglers across the country hitting the water in no time.  Coming with a 40 hp four stroke Mercury engine, a 12 volt 45 lb thrust MinnKota trolling motor and so much more, this boat is priced for anyone to enjoy some time on the water.  If you are a new angler or looking to get to onto some of those smaller waters here in Illinois then you really need to look at this boat!

Picture provided by HeritageBoat.com

Same Ole Same Ole for Round 9 - That's a Good Thing

Round 9 of the Illinois archery harvest numbers show more of the same.  For pretty much the entire deer season, excluding firearm and muzzleloader, the harvest has been up compared to 2016.  The question is, why this year?  Could it be the lack of blue tongue this year, which had more deer in the field?  Could it be the crossbows?  Or could it be a rebound of the deer herd or just the weather in general?  It's hard to say what played a part in the increase, but by the end of the late winter season we'll sure find out.

Illinois CPOs Hard at Work Issuing Over 1,800 Citations and Warnings

While we're out in the field waterfowl hunting, deer hunting or just doing a little fishing, Illinois CPOs are hard at work enforcing Illinois wildlife laws.  It's easy to forget about law enforcement officers when you obey the law.  However, just because you and I are responsible doesn't mean accidents or negligence in the field doesn't happen.  Below you'll read about how our CPOs issued over 1,800 citations and warnings in less than a month.  While reading this don't forget about the last big bust in regards to fishing, CPOs cited a father and son who were in possession of over 115 perch!  

Our CPOs are doing the best job the can, especially being understaffed. (IDNR is Seeking Applicants for Conservation Police Officer Training).  But, they can't do it by themselves.  Poaching and those in violations of the law need to be reported and that's where you can help.  Make sure to take out your cell phones and add this number.  Call 1-877-2DNRLAW (236-7529) to report anyone you see who is doing something they shouldn't be!

IDNR Conservation Police Issue More Than 1,800 Citations and Warnings to Violators During Illinois’ Busiest Hunting Season

SPRINGFIELD, IL – While firearm deer hunters in Illinois took more than 80,000 deer during the state’s busiest hunting season, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Conservation Police report just four hunting-related accidents were reported, three of them involving injuries resulting from tree stand falls.

Muzzleloader and Archery Deer Harvest Numbers up for Round 8

The recent cold snap had some of us heading to Milwaukee for the Ice Show or just talking about ice fishing.  However, deer season is still going strong here in Illinois.  The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Divison of Wildlife released last weekends muzzleloader and archery numbers and they are up.

Our pro-staffer Rick working on his euro-mount from a buck he harvested this year. 

MUZZLELOADER DEER SEASON
During the 3-day Muzzleloader Deer Season (Dec. 8-10), Illinois deer hunters harvested a preliminary total of 3,700 deer, compared to 3,308 in 2016. 

Harvest sex ratios were 55% does and 45% males (2040:1660). 

Top five counties were Pike (168), Adams (120), Jefferson (112), Randolph (103), and Fulton (102). 

ARCHERY DEER SEASON

Through Sunday, Dec.10, Illinois archery deer hunters harvested a preliminary total of 52,650 deer, compared to 48,228 for the same period in 2016. 

Top five counties were Pike (1852), Fulton (1474), Jefferson (1236), Adams (1155), and Williamson (1040).

Total harvest to date has consisted of 44% does and 56% males (23322:29328). During the past 7 days, harvest sex ratios have been 54% female and 46% male.

Interested in comparing County by County? 

• Archery 
• Muzzleloader

Up-to-date archery harvest figures (for either deer or turkey) by county/state sites can be tracked on the web athttp://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/IDNRHarvestQuery.aspx

Illinois DNR Newsbits for December 2017

The Illinois DNR Newsbits is a great way to see what is up and coming for the IDNR Events.  

Illinois DNR Newsbits - December 2017

Archery Deer and Fall Turkey Permits:  Illinois Archery Deer and Illinois Archery Fall Turkey seasons are open through Jan. 14, 2018.  Permits are available over-the-counter at DNR Direct license and permit vendors. Find a vendor near you at this link:                  http://dnr.illinois.gov/DNRDirectMonitor/VendorListing.aspx
 

Increase in Hunter Quota for Jim Edgar Panther Creek Pheasant Program

Get your permit while you can!  The Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced that they will increase hunter quotas for the controlled pheasant program at Jim Edgar Panther Creek.  The IDNR has said that they'll release more pheasants to help make up for the increase in hunters.  Take advantage of this opportunity because permits sell out quickly.  We just got ours!

Watch our last Controlled Pheasant Hunt at Jim Edgar Panther Creek

Controlled Pheasant Hunting Hunter Quotas Increased at Jim Edgar Panther Creek SFWA

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced that the daily hunter quotas will be increased on the Controlled Pheasant Hunting Unit at the Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area in Cass Co. beginning Wednesday, December 6 through the close of the hunting season on Sunday, January 14. Additional pheasants will be released at the site as a result of the hunter quota increase.

Bear the Cold for Eagle Days On Feb. 3, 2018

There's nothing quite like watching an eagle, thousands of snow geese and other waterfowl, through a lens at over 500 yards away.  Over the last few years we've had the opportunity to attend Eagle Days.  If you've got cabin fever, and let's be honest in February, it's cold, so who wouldn't want to get out of the house.  Well, you need to get in the car and head to Fulton Mason Eagle Day.  It's jammed packed and lots of fun for the entire family!  Read about our first Eagle Day

Observing some of nature's beautiful waterfowl at Emiquon on Eagle Days

Calling Youth Goose Hunters, Register for Central Illinois Youth Goose Hunt

This is a great opportunity to get those youngsters out of the warm house and into the waterfowl blind.  Youth from ages 10 - 17 have the opportunity to register for this hunt.  It's easy enough, just call!!!

Register Now for Central Illinois Youth Goose Hunt

Annual Hunt is January 14-15

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Youth interested in participating in the annual Central Illinois Youth Goose Hunt, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), may register now for the hunt scheduled for January 14-15, 2018.

To register for a drawing to participate in the hunt, youth hunters must phone in to the IDNR at 217-785-8060 by the registration deadline of Friday, December 29.

The youth goose hunt will be held at private waterfowl hunting clubs in the Canton area in Fulton Co.

A lottery drawing involving all youth who phone in to register will be conducted on January 2, 2018, and youth hunters selected will be notified by mail. First-time applicants will be given a priority over previous participants in the drawing.

The hunt is open to youth ages 10-17 at the time of the hunt. All applicants must possess a valid Illinois hunting or sportsman's license, have a Harvest Information Program (HIP) registration number, and have a 20 gauge or larger shotgun. Youth hunt participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who must possess a valid firearm owner's identification (FOID) card.

Round 7 - Illinois Archery Harvest Numbers Continue Above 2016 Season

While many of us were eating turkey, some were out in the woods on this nice beautiful Thanksgiving weekend.  This weeks preliminary archery numbers show an increase of 4,243 from the 2016 season.  You may also note that the buck to doe ratio is down, which indicates to a lot in the deer hunting world that the rut has slowed down or it may be over.   With just a little under 60 days of deer hunting season over, what will the remainder of the season show?

This weekend is the second round of firearm season.  Please remember that those who hunt in Northern Illinois need to bring their deer to a checkin station. Please read about where in each county you can do that.

CWD Samplings

Carl with a nice buck during first firearm season.

Below you'll see the numbers sent out by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Through Sunday, November 26, 2017, Illinois archery deer hunters harvested a preliminary total of 50,742 deer, compared to 46,499 for the same period in 2016.

Harvest to date has consisted of 44% does and 56% males (19898:26601).

Top five counties were Pike (1786), Fulton (1431), Jefferson (1194), Adams (1124), and Williamson (980).

Interested in comparing harvest numbers from 2016 to 2017?  Check out the County by County Sheet -

Up-to-date archery harvest figures (for either deer or turkey) by county/state sites can be tracked on the web at http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/IDNRHarvestQuery.aspx

Turkey Applications for IRAP Now Available

The sounds of a Tom gobbling into shooting distance are what turkey hunters wait all year for. At the turn of the century the number of the wild turkey were drastically low. Today, that number has turned around because of hunters and conservation groups like the National Wild Turkey Federation.  However, if you hunt turkey, finding a location to go can be difficult. Over the past few years Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) has been wildly successful.  In fact the program was so successful at the start with the youth that they opened it up to adults.  Well that time is back, IRAP applications are being accepted for the spring turkey season.  See below for all the information provided by the IDNR.

Let’s Go Turkey Hunting! IRAP Taking Applications Now for Spring

Youth Hunters Apply by February 23 for Youth Season; Hunters Apply by March 18 for Seasons 3 and 4

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) is encouraging youth and adult hunters to plan now to enjoy spring turkey hunting during the 2018 Illinois Spring Turkey Season, with access to excellent turkey habitat available through IRAP.