LTAHA News

Fast Facts From Louisiana

Hunting

In 2003, hunting-related expenditures in Louisiana amounted to $599 million (LDWF 2005).

Wildlife-Watching

In 2003, expenditures related to wildlife-watching in Louisiana amounted to $175 million
(LDWF 2005).

Fur Harvest

The 2005-2006 fur harvest in Louisiana’s coastal wetlands generated approximately $1.17 million
(LDWF 2006).

Alligator Harvest

In 2003, the Louisiana alligator harvest was valued at approximately $38 million (LDWF 2005).

Waterfowl

Louisiana’s coastal wetlands provide habitat for approximately 1.8 million migratory waterfowl
(LDWF 2008).

LTAHA member,
It is time again for our annual convention. The convention will be held at Woodworth La, at the LDWF shooting range again this year. We are excited about the up coming year and where the LTAHA will be going with it. The fur market is going wild and everyone is trying to get their fur to the market. Coon hit record highs at the February NAFA sale along with 30% growth in the otter, wild mink and bobcat market. The market is expected to make 15% correction on the May 2013 sale, but some analyst predicts steady growth instead of a correction.

This has been a very difficult year for the officers of the association with many changes in their personal lives and limits to their ability to cover all the bases. Our quarterly news letter has seen rocky times as it has been hard for one person to write, publish and mail the news letters. This up coming convention there are many positions coming open and some position changes. The opening will need to fill with persons who will dedicate some time in support of their fellow trappers. The position changes which were discussed at the last board of directors meeting will help alleviate some of the strain on the association's ability to move forward.

There will be three Board of Directors positions coming open April 6th. We are asking anyone with the desire to advance the sport and industry of trapping to please step forward. We will also be actively seeking a new Secretary. Rob McKay has filled the position of Secretary for the past two years and helped bring our association into the modern age. Rob has served our association well but has made notice that this will be his last due to the demand on him after starting his own business. Of all the jobs in the association this is the most important and will require someone who is willing to dedicate their time. Wesley Blanchard has also made notice of his intent to resign from the position of Youth Education Coordinator. Wesley's job has limited his time and ability to perform the job at the level he feels is required. Wesley has done a good job with the youth over the past few years and will still support the association youth events and program in any way possible. Also the Board of Directors will be electing President and Vice President at the convention. Please feel free to step up and help keep our association strong. Your support is the backbone of trapping in the state of Louisiana.

This year's event will also serve as a pick up point for persons wishing to ship their fur to NAFA. A NAFA agent will be at the convention sometime around noon. We will also have Michael Consiglio, the marketing agent for the state of Louisiana present to answer questions and discuss possibilities for the future of the Fur Industry in Louisiana. Our schedule of event includes activities for the youth and trapping demos for everyone.

Schedule of Events

7:30 - 8:30 am will be meet and greet. This is time for everyone to gather around and tell tall tales, slap backs, shake hands and drink coffee.

8:30 Johnny Price: mink trapping demo.

9:30 Coyote trapping demo(to be announced)
also at same time, kids trappers class/demos- Wesley Blanchard.

10:30 Question and Answers ( all trapping): John Linzay & Steve Hughes

11:30 Michael Consiglio presentation on Louisiana fur market.

12:00 noon lunch.

1:00 pm General meeting followed by Executive Session of Board of
Directors.

While the board is in Executive Session, the Youth Trap Setting Contest will take place. Speed trap setting/quality trap setting for youth.

2:00-4:00 pm Silent Auction Ends Live Auction begins after Trap Setting Contest.

4:00 pm Clean up.

Directions: Take the LA-3265/PR-22 exit, EXIT 73, toward Woodworth. Turn onto Robinson Bridge Rd/LA-3265 W. Drive approximately 1.5 miles. On the left you will see the LDWF shooting range. Watch your speed, check your inspection sticker, brake lights and over all health of your vehicle, Woodworth Police are looking for anything to right tickets for . If you have any questions call Tony Howard, 318-423-7860.