Outdoors in RI: All politics is local, Breakheart Pond a-changin, Hunters prep, 2A – Jeff Gross

by Jeff Gross, contributing writer on outdoor issues, 2A, commentary

The outdoor scene has many facets. I attended a Gloucester town meeting Thursday night and I was made to feel right at home. My issue was the outrageous speeds that are witnessed on Routes 100 and 102. All town officials took great interest in the issue and stated they would get right on it. I appreciate their attention to the safety matter. 

All towns have their hot button issues such as Cranston’s police firearms range noise. Gloucester’s hot button issue that night was horse manure on the town’s sidewalks. The issue drew a large crowd.  Fortunately, the topic was addressed in a respectful manner, unless this writer missed something en route to the town hall.  Nonetheless, Road apples are seen everywhere in the woods, it is part of the outdoors. Sidewalks in front of store fronts are another issue, but it appeared that everyone is in agreement that the sidewalks should be kept clean. 

The town also addressed an issue of ATV noise. The council did the smart thing and refrained from drawing up any further noise ordinance as it would likely interfere with other activities in the town. The suggestion of the ATVers and homeowners maybe bartering over an apple pie was floated.  Well said, as it is a smart way to resolve a difference of opinion between neighbors without government intervention.   “Atta Boy” to the Gloucester Town Council and Glocester PD.

I think I found a new home in a small town.

Meanwhile, in Exeter

In the town of Exeter, Horse Manure wasn’t the issue, but it was widely seen in Arcadia Management area when I took Abby for a hike around Breakheart Pond. What was not seen are the disgusting green bags of dog waste that are flung in the trees in Big River Management Area. If you are going to tag it and bag it, take the fairly non-biodegradable bag home and throw it in the trash. Otherwise, like bears, Animals do what they need to in the woods; leave it there.

The Breakheart Pond hike highlighted numerous changes in the landscape.  When COVID struck and Gina forced everyone to stay at home inside to “flatten the curve”, and then continued the nonsense with the ever-extending executive orders, this writer said “F” this and took Jada (Abby’s predecessor) for a hike at Breakheart Pond. 4 years later it looks like an extension of Jurassic Park. The stream pictured below changed drastically. 

The fields that were wide open in 2020 are now something out the Jurassic period when one sees all the ferns. For you outdoor lovers, contact our good friends in Maine on harvesting, preparing and cooking Fiddleheads.  If you like Asparagus and Artichokes, it is likely you will find Fiddleheads satisfying your pallet.  Even Breakheart Pond is being reclaimed by mother nature. 

Weeds infest the pond severely now, and there are 2 trees growing in the dam area.  If those trees’ roots migrate too far they will burst the damn. Knowing it is that time of year, the Army National Guard is looking for ways to do their 2-week drills and also contribute to the community, there may be a way to clean up the dam area. Of great significance on the Pond trails is the large amount of Black Oak and White Oak Acorns. Uncle Henry at the Veterans Dinner also noted like the Acorns, 2024 has been a great year for Apples as well. 2024 saw many does with 2 fawns and a highly unusual doe with 3 fawns,  With this much forage for the Deer 2025 may be another banner year for Deer offspring

A 2A Update

Not all was rosy this week as it is announced that Massachusetts has appealed the Commonwealth V Donnel case, where Mr. Donnel was arrested when he inadvertently crossed over the NH state line into MA, and he was carrying a firearm. Further research is needed as I am unsure if this is the same NH resident case that caught my attention back in 2023.  Stay tuned!  SAF and the NRA filed a Amicus Brief in the above case.  I received a copy tonight and, at 79 pages, I’ll need a pot of coffee Friday to digest the case. The bottom line is the fact that Massachusetts looks to make criminals out of law-abiding citizens that own firearms. 

I wonder if this is where Rhode Island gets the same motto from?  I do not see a change to that mindset for decades maybe even longer.  I am understanding now why the Second Amendment Foundation is reluctant in litigating the RI under 21 ban and also more recently the RI forced safe storage.  Massachusetts and Rhode Island will not comply with the US Supreme Court orders.  It indeed may be the ripe time in 2025 to enforce 18 US Codes 241 and 242.

Hunter Education & Training

As some aspects of hunting season start in just a couple of weeks, the RI DEM performed an excellent job by highlighting a number of classes and training in the upcoming timetable:

Archery Proficiency Day (Certification)

• Date: Saturday, September 7
• Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
• Location: Narragansett Bowhunters Club- 1531 Ten Rod Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852
• Age group: Adults
• Cost: Free
• Registration: Contact Lead Instructor, Ed Klosowski at 401-742-2036

Archery Proficiency testing is required every two years for bowhunting deer on Prudence Island, Patience Island, and Block Island, in Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge and John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge, and in Beavertail State Park, town of Bristol co-op properties, and anywhere in the town of Lincoln. This archery proficiency day is a great opportunity to update your certification! For more details on testing requirements, click here: https://dem.ri.gov/events/archery-proficiency-day-certification-1

Hunter Education Certification Course – 2 DAY

• Dates and times: Saturday, September 7 (8 AM – 5 PM) and Sunday, September 8 (12 – 5 PM)
• Location: Tiverton Rod and Gun Club. 1529 Fish Rd. Tiverton RI
• Age group: Ages 11 and up
• Cost: Free
• Registration: https://forms.gle/dNN4gtb85aJAUf4a9

Hunter safety certification classes are designed to educate and prepare individuals for safe, legal, and responsible hunting practices. Successful completion of the course results in a certification allowing individuals to legally purchase a hunting license in Rhode Island. These classes emphasize not only the skills needed for a successful hunt but also the importance of respecting wildlife and natural habitats. Please contact instructor Derrick Foley with any questions: [email protected]

Intro to Waterfowl Hunting Workshop

• Date: Saturday, September 14
• Time: 9 AM – 4 PM
• Location: 1B Camp E Hun Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822
• Age group: Ages 11 and up
• Cost: Free
• Registration: https://forms.gle/64eCHyhDm3QNc7ASA

Curious about waterfowl hunting but don’t know where to start? Join our Intro to Waterfowl Hunting Class and embark on an adventure like no other!

• Learn from seasoned experts in an interactive and informative session.
• Discover essential techniques and strategies for a successful hunt.
• Get hands-on experience with equipment and safety protocols.
• Connect with fellow enthusiasts and build your hunting network.
• Gain insights into conservation efforts and ethical hunting practices.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, this class is perfect for anyone eager to explore the thrilling world of waterfowl hunting. Don’t miss out—reserve your spot today and step into your next great outdoor pursuit! Further details will be emailed to you closer to the program date. For any questions, please contact: [email protected]

Bowhunter Education Certification Course

• Date: Saturday, September 14
• Time: 8 AM – 5 PM
• Location: Tiverton Rod and Gun Club. 1529 Fish Rd. Tiverton RI
• Age group: Ages 11 and up
• Cost: Free
• Registration: https://forms.gle/Wksd56WUfETg3jgN8

Bowhunter safety Education certification classes are designed to educate and prepare individuals for safe, legal, and responsible hunting practices. Successful completion of the course results in a certification allowing individuals to legally purchase a bowhunting license in Rhode Island. These classes emphasize not only the skills needed for a successful hunt but also the importance of respecting wildlife and natural habitats. Please contact instructor Derrick Foley with any questions: [email protected]

Trapping 101 Class

• Date: Sunday, September 22 
• Time: 9 AM – 2 PM
• Location: 1B Camp E Hun Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822
• Registration: https://forms.gle/gU4rMs5MQaBvGpmk9

This non-certification course will cover various aspects of trapping to include: the history of trapping, conservation and trapping regulations, the biology of different target species in RI, best management practices in the field, types of traps, and a hands-on demonstration of how to set traps from experienced trappers. All participants are encouraged to bring a lunch and water. Participants may also want to bring a pen and paper for notes. This workshop is offered free of charge, but pre-registration is required. For any questions, please contact: [email protected]

Deer Processing Workshop

• Date: Sunday, October 13
• Time: 8 AM – 12 PM
• Location: Harvest Moon Processing, 15D Lauri Drive, Charlestown, RI
• Registration: https://forms.gle/MVfWsEQ28gGvVXKr7

Successfully harvested a deer and wondering what’s next? Whether you’re new to hunting or a seasoned pro, discover the essential skills for processing your deer. Join us to learn how to master the art of butchering, from skinning to crafting delicious sausages, guided by industry experts.

Fall Muzzleloader Sight-In and Support

• Date: Saturday, October 19
• Time: 9 AM – 12 PM
• Location: Great Swamp Shooting Range, West Kingston, RI
• Registration: No pre-registration required

Muzzleloader deer season is approaching fast. Don’t get caught unprepared, whether it’s your first season or you’re a seasoned pro. Join DEM’s Hunter Education staff at the Great Swamp Shooting Range for a morning of muzzleloader shooting support and basic information. Sight-in your hunting muzzleloaders, bring out the reproductions, or show off your true black-powder antiques. Staff will have a limited quantity of muzzleloaders and instructors on-hand to offer one-on-one instruction on a first-come, first-serve basis to anyone interested.

No permit will be required for this special session, but non-permitted users will be limited to firing muzzleloading firearms only and be required to sign a waiver. For questions, please contact Range Supervisor Branton Elleman at [email protected], or 401-575-6331.

2024 Youth Waterfowl Mentored Hunt

DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is teaming up with Rhode Island’s chapters of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and Ducks Unlimited and other partners to offer Rhode Island’s annual Youth Waterfowl Training & Mentored Hunt this fall. All youth hunters ages 12 to 15 who have completed a Hunter Education Certification Course are invited to apply. Space is limited and applications are due by Sunday, August 25.

This multi-day event includes a training session and cookout for youth and their parents, in addition to the mentored hunt. The training and cookout will occur on Saturday, September 28, then participants will be paired with experienced mentors and partake in a mentored youth waterfowl hunt on Saturday, October 26. A current RI hunting license and Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit are required for participation. Event details and application process are available here: https://dem.ri.gov/natural-resources-bureau/fish-wildlife/outreach-education/hunter-education/rhode-island-youth

Get in shape time!

Time to fine tune your firearms. Make sure your dog(s) are in shape and refresh their training. Get yourselves in shape, too.

Until next week – Jeff

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Jeffrey “Jeff” Gross spent 21 years as an Analytical Chemist at the USCG R&D Center in Groton, Connecticut, Woods Hole Laboratories, and Helix Technologies. Changing careers is a “great learning experience for everyone”, Jeff says, and I’m an avid outdoorsman and conservationist, a student of the sciences, and the world. The US holds too many wonders not to take a chance and explore them”.

Jeff is the Model Train and Railroad entrepreneur. Proud Golden Retriever owner. Ultra strong Second Amendment Advocate and Constitutionalist. “Determined seeker of the truth”.  Jeff is a RIFGPA Legislative and Legal Officer, Freshwater Chairman, NRA Liaison.

His subjects include Outdoors, Second Amendment, Model Railroading, Commentary, and Whimsical. He can be reached at: [email protected].