Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA)- Your View

[Mayfly]

Hey all -

I had a conversation with a friend yesterday about the MDHA and thought i'd look to the forum of outdoors people to get some more input.

I'm just curious what your views are about the MDHA? Are you a member? Why or why not? What does the MDHA do for you and what has or does it do.

Yesterday I sat down in a friends office who is the biggest deer hunter I know. His walls are graced with awesome wall mounts and plenty of pictures. We went into our normal hunting conversation and then he pulled something out that he wanted to show me. Is was a three ring binder with a power point presentation of his first local QDMA chapter meeting that he is starting. We discussed that for a while and then I noticed the stack of pheasants forever magazines on his coffee table. From there the conversation went to the MDHA and now i'm here.

Growing up a pheasant hunter I personally have always had some article of PF logo wear or a sticker. I display it proudly. I was a member for many years and loved getting the calendars, gift cards and a new hat every year. But, the reason I liked being a part of PF so much because the work they were doing was evident. When out hunting it didn't take long to see a WMA that PF funded or had some hand in. I subscribe to their newsletters and press releases and they are always up to something.

Now, i'm not up to par on MDHA so I can't really comment but you never see them anywhere and for being a die hard hunter I wonder why? This is a big organization here in Minnesota and I think it can serve or maybe is serving a great purpose.

Just curious what your thoughts are.

[kenhuntin]

There is a purpose for MDHA. It is good to have a strong showing of enthusists. Deer themselves are pretty prolific and thrive wherever there is no concrete. I see no use in hides for habitat.  
I see MDHA as more of a social club than making an enviromental or political impact. The banquets I have attended are geared to more giveaways than fundraisers. It does make their events more fun to attend. I have been a member and supported MDHA in the past including Bloomingtons charter year. Today my conservation dollars go to non profits I feel help out in areas that are more threatened like TIP (which helps all fish and game) and wetland preservation.

[naturalistmn]

I am not a member, but I am all for any group that promotes habitat improvement.   I don't know a ton about the MDHA, which also makes me ask why?   The group originated in northern Minnesota and perhaps they don't have the impact in the south.   The Food Plot Program and Hides for Habitat are programs of the MDHA.   Apparently, at the end of 2006 they contributed $3.5 million for habitat improvement, such as improving public tracts, purchasing land for public use, and habitat improvement.   In my location, I don't see any of this.   Maybe the reason for this is we just don't hear of there involvement, not sure.   Or possibly, their efforts are not noticable.   The times we are in, habitat awareness is everything!

[deadeye]

kenhuntin,

I am and have been an MDHA member for quite a few years now.  I agree with you they (we) need to toot our horn a little more.  There are numerous projects funded by MDHA.  Some are large in scope and some and in conjunction with other groups and some are relatively small and likely to go unnoticed except for the group that benefited.  I can and will give some examples but first I wanted to point out something.

kenhuntin said "I feel help out in areas that are more threatened like TIP (which helps all fish and game) and wetland preservation."  Well, guess what?  Who do you think answers the phone when you call TIP?  

Ok, I will answer my own question.

2010 has been an amazing year for TIP with 679 TIP calls resulting in 499 cases being started and 114 arrests. The arrests are mainly for deer and fish violations, but also include arrests for waterfowl, small game, turkey and recreational vehicle infractions. 

“2010 also has brought administrative changes to Turn In Poachers,” reports TIP Board President Patsy Bernhjelm. “ 2010 has been an amazing year for TIP with 679 TIP calls resulting in 499 cases being started and 114 arrests. The arrests are mainly for deer and fish violations, but also include arrests for waterfowl, small game, turkey and recreational vehicle infractions. 

“2010 also has brought administrative changes to Turn In Poachers,” reports TIP Board President Patsy Bernhjelm. “Since May 2009, TIP has been without an Executive Director.  At that time, TIP’s volunteer Board of Directors picked up all organizational duties (show appearances, banquets, speaking engagements, membership maintenance, etc.) that the Executive Director usually fulfilled. Their hard work also included an internal review of TIP’s past, present and future goals, confirming where TIP has been and is now, to ensure TIP’s future. As a result of this review the board decided that it was necessary to take some specific steps to ensure TIP’s continued viability into the future. This included meetings with DNR Enforcement and TIP resulting in an updated Memorandum of Understanding that continues to clarify and define the relationship they have each come to appreciate for almost 30 years.”

Here are the changes that TIP has initiated:
·    TIP, Inc. is now contracting its administrative duties through a cooperative arrangement with the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association
·    Effective July 1, 2010, TIP, Inc. has moved from its headquarters in Eagan to Grand Rapids, MN. The new address is 460 Peterson Road, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
·    The TIP, Inc. office phone number has been changed to 218-326-TIPS (8477)

These are things that have not changed:
·    TIP procedures will remain “business as usual” 
·    The TIP Board of Directors will continue to guide the operations of TIP
·    The local TIP Banquet Committees will continue to provide fundraising support
·    TIP Hotline numbers have remained the same – 1-800-652-9093 or #TIP on a cell phone
·    The TIP Hotline will continue to be answered by the MN DNR and State Patrol

Mark Johnson, Executive Director for the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA) states, “MDHA has always been an avid supporter of TIP. This cooperative arrangement allows us a chance to help ensure a strong and viable TIP that our state needs to protect our natural resources for the future.”

[Joe@deerhunters]

Well some of you know me from the site. I am fortunate to work for what I consider a great state conservation organization.  The main point, I totally agree with is MDHA does not have a strong statewide PR effort.  That said, Man our chapters do a ton.The fact is we are grass roots. The volunteers do the lions share of raising the money and bringing the projects to life.

In fact just today!  120 acres were purchased and donated to the DNR to become additions to the Snake River WMA in Kenabec county. All of the proceeds came for the hides for habitat program. Fact is the hides for habitat program funds habitat restoration, enhancement, aquisitions as well as hunter education.   Roughly 40,000 hides are collected each at about $6 a hide depending on the year.  Wow what if more folks made sure thier hide went into an MDHA box instead trading for free pair of cheap gloves?

This does not include the additional banquet funds of which the chapters keeps 50% to spend locally. All together MDHA and the local chapters spend around 1/2 million each year minimum on working for tommorows wildlife and hunters today.  And those dollars are spent in Minnesota.

Obiviously we must try and need to do a better job of getting the word out.

[kenhuntin]

I am unclear as to the role MDHA has when it reads TIP is contracting its administrative duties with MDHA.  
Does that means TIP dollars are going to the powerful MDHA or are the deer hunters using their massive funds and resources to help offset the cost of the TIP program?
 MDHA is a worthwhile organization And the work you do for them is appreciated Deadeye. The wildlife projects they fund are very important and appreciated.
 Alot of money is raised under the guise of habitat for deer.  It is my thought that deer are not hurting for habitat in Minnesota.

[HUNTER2]

I belong to them all. Ducks Unlimited, Pheasents forever, MDHA and NWTF. Have been for years.

[deadeye]

Another big part of MDHA is Education.

Forkhorn Camp for Kids

The Minnesota Deer Hunters Association believes that educating hunters is key to perpetuating Minnesota's outdoor heritage and that the best tool of wildlife and ecosystem education is instilling a greater appreciation for our natural resources in our children. MDHA's method is Forkhorn Youth Summer Camps. 

Since 1985, thousands of youth have attended Forkhorn Camps. MDHA currently collaborates with seven facilities around the state to implement camp sessions for youth ages 11-17. MDHA's Forkhorn camps have developed remarkably since their inception, but their aim remains the same: youth education.

MDHA promotes education to guarantee the future of our hunting heritage in Minnesota.
•Each year MDHA chapters provide nearly $100,000 in scholarships to MDHA Forkhorn Camps across the state which provide outdoor and hunting education for nearly 700 youth annually.
•MDHA promotes private land wildlife management education through our Land Management Program.
•MDHA chapters contribute tens of thousands of dollars each year to support Firearms Safety Training, 4-H Shooting Sports, Jamie Tennison Fund, Youth Field Days, National Archery in the Schools Program, Large Mammal Curriculum and more.

[deadeye]

Kenhuntin, you do make a point about being a social club.  However, there has to be a lot more to an organization than just collecting money.  If that were the case, I suspose we could all sit at home and communicate via the internet. 
Banquets are susposed to be fun.  Everyone likes to get something (or at least have a chance to get something) in return for their contributions.  Like the saying goes, "it takes money to make money".  I don't think an organization would raise much money if they had an affair where you walked in one door, dropped off your donation, and then proceeded out the back door.  I can't speak for all the chapters but I can say that if our banquet was a "giveaway" I certianly wouldn't reduce my chances of getting something by inviting every one I meet to come to our banquet. 
Thanks for your comments and input on this subject.  I think MDHA need to get the word out a bit more and this is one good way to do it.     

[corny13]

Although I dont belong to MDHA ( Im a ND resident)  I do believe that any organization that promotes Youth Hunting is a good place to give some of your conservation Dollars.  BTW I do annually give to Deep Portage Preserve Foundation that hosts your Forkhorn classes.  This is a great organization that's primary goal is to get kids into the outdoors.

[deadeye]

My previous post on Forkhorn camps was a little generic.  MDHA supports the Forkhorn camps in several ways.  Funding is given for camps to purchase equipment such as bows, arrows, targets, guns, and ammo.  Also, financial assistance is given to many of the youths who attend the camps.  In 2010 a record 776 childrne attended the seven Forkhorn Camp locations.  Of those, 60% were financially sponsored by local chapters. 

[berettaboy]

MDHA isn't the powerful force they used to be.  They have been stagnant for a while.  I say this as a life member of the group, but if they don't start reaching out to new members they are going to become irrelevant.  They don't offer a compelling reason to be a member.  They don't support efforts to increase trophy bucks, QDMA does.  They talk about their youth mission, but they oppose expanding youth hunting opportunities.  Their big issue last year was supporting scopes on muzzleloaders.  Really, that is your big issue?  Also, how does someone get involved with MDHA?  They have a big meeting coming up where delegates will set the policy for the year, but I don't know how to become a delegate, express my opinion to a delegate, or how to get on the board of directors.  It is a really closed group.  How about publishing all that info on the website?

[deadeye]

berettaboy, first off, welcome to the MNO site.  Glad to have you here. 

You make some very valid points regarding MDHA's exposure.  The simple way chapter members can bring their ideas to the state level is via a resolution.  From the chapter it goes to a regional meeting and from there to the state meeting you memtioned.   Involvement can vary greatly by individual members.  If you go to the MDHA web site and click on the "volunteer Today" tab, you will see how to submit applications for the various MDHA committees. (Both regional and State).  I assume you belong to a local chapter. 
Thanks again for comments and questions.  This is one way you have helped us reach more potential members. 

[beeker]

well to be honest, I don't send money to these groups or join up. why... well it seems that in most cases there is a good ol boy mentality and all they want from the new guys is a check to help support them.. the only results you see are self published on their own websites or in their newsletters. I gave up on em.. instead I take care of my own land and try to make it an inviting habitat for the critters I like and some I don't like but are fun to watch on trail cameras. personally it seems like they just want the $$ so they can make a living talking about hunting

[deadeye]

There are not too many paying positions in the MDHA.  But I will agree with you if everybody (old and new members) quit paying, they would lose their positions.  It is admirable that you take the time and money to make your property the best habitat it can be for wildlife.  I don't know how to answer your issue with "self publication" but I can try.  Remember a number of people ask why we don't publish more of what we do.  Anyway here is an article from the "Kanabec County News" 

http://www.moraminn.com/detail/66531.html

Land sale inked with an eye toward the future
 
Bob Aas and Jim Yantes, current Kanabec Conservation Club board members, Dennis Udean from the Snake River chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunter’s Association and Gary Finden, Kanabec Conservation Club president shake hands after signing a deal last week that both organizations say will eventually protect more than 2,000 acres of land in northern Kanabec County.

The Snake River chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunter’s Association (MDHA) and members of the Kanabec Conservation Club met at the SNG Services shop last Tuesday, Dec. 28, to sign a purchase agreement for 120 acres of land in remote Ford Township.

The property was sold at a substantially discounted rate to expedite the process and insure the sale could proceed.

Club leaders say this sale has been on Kanabec Conservation Club’s agenda for many years and that execution of the transaction capped countless hours of diligent work on the part of both current and past board members and membership.

The final closing date will occur in late 2011 or sooner, depending on how fast the MDHA can raise the remaining funds for the land. The MDHA already has commitments for over half the amount and expect to raise the rest well before the scheduled December 2011 closing date.

The 120-acre tract will eventually be turned over to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to be added to the Hay/Snake Wildlife Management Area, with a goal of the DNR eventually having a contiguous block of 2,000 acres protected as Wildlife Management Area and to protect and manage over two miles of pristine river frontage.

The 120 acres in the process of being sold will eventually be named the “Kanabec Conservation Club/Snake River Chapter of the MDHA Addition.” Leaders of both the Kanabec Conservation Club and the Minnesota Deer Hunter’s Association say their organizations are proud and honored to have their names associated with such a project.

“This land will now be protected for the benefit of wildlife and the enjoyment of many generations down the road,” Kanabec County resident Shawn Paul said. “As the secretary of Kanabec Conservation Club I want to congratulate and thank both organizations for their hard work and foresightedness to finalize this project. Being proper stewards of the land is mandatory in today's world if we want our future generations to have the same opportunities to enjoy the outdoors as we do now.”

[deadeye]

Now that you got me started, I saw this in last Sundays Star Tribune.

DNR discussion set for Monday
By DENNIS ANDERSON, Star Tribune

Last update: February 13, 2011 - 12:00 AM

A public meeting Monday from 7-9 p.m. to discuss the DNR's operation to sample as many as 900 deer in southeast Minnesota for chronic wasting disease (CWD) will be held at Pine Island High School.

DNR staff will be on hand, as will representatives of the Board of Animal Health and the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association.

More than 180 permits have been issued to landowners to shoot deer for testing in an area generally within 10 miles of Pine Island. The DNR says so far 120 deer, including some killed by vehicles, have been tested. All have been negative for CWD.

Concern about a CWD outbreak followed the discovery that a doe killed Nov. 28 by an archer hunting not far from Pine Island was infected with CWD.

Aerial surveys by the DNR indicate about 20 deer per square mile inhabit the area within a 5-mile radius of where the infected deer was killed. Near a former commercial elk farm in the area where four animals were found to be infected with CWD in 2009 as many as 83 deer per square mile were counted.

[beeker]

well deadeye.. they're lucky to have you on there side. thanks for posting these, I get defensive when people stare at my checkbook. nice to see they do what they say they do.. if you know what I mean

[deadeye]

My views about the MDHA are the same as with any other organization, group, political party, or club of any kind.  I may not always agree with their stand on one or more issues, but as long as I believe in their general philosophy and can see the benefits, I will support them.  It's easy to pick one thing you disagree on (take MDHA and their stance on CWD) and say the whole organization is a waste and should be avoided.  However, if you are a member of any organization, or institution (including marriage) you know you will never be 100% in agreement with every issue.  Just because you don't agree with an issue doesn't mean you run for the hills and hide. Ok, that was a poke at the Wisconsin legislatures. 

Does anyone know any other organization besides MDHA that has weighed in, for or against, the DNR's actions on CWD?     

[kenhuntin]

Last night I attended my favorite banquet of the year, the West Metro tip banquet.
I learned that through the recent lean years tip fundraising has only been able to accumulate funds enough to barely cover administration costs. The Minnesota Deer Hunters Association which has basically been in bed with tip since its inception offered to to absorb the cost and use it's resources to keep tip alive.
 I was concerned that tip was having to pay MDHA because everyone knows what happens to money as it travels through different hands along the way.
 This is a great thing.
 T.I.P and M.D.H.A. are non profits and not a part of state Govt. They are funded entirely by private citizens.
 MDHA members deserve a long awaited thank you from me.