Sportsmen discuss Ice Fishing Derby, Coyote Hunt and USDA Grant
The St. Marys Sportsmen’s February meeting was called to order by President Kris Dippold.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Secretary Joe Hoffman read the minutes from the January Meeting, which were approved as given. Joe, who is also membership chair, noted that the membership for 2023 is 469. Treasurer Jerry Goetz then presented the financial report for the month of January, and this was accepted as given. Committee reports: VP Bill Simbeck informed the membership that there would be no Ice Fishing Derby this year. Bill noted that while there is some ice, the eight inches required is not there, and there are some areas with no ice.
Director Paul Donachy, reporting on the upcoming trap & skeet season, stated that the Club will have to order some birds. Paul noted that it has been two years since the last time they were ordered.
Director Fred Fritz, who is rental chair for the farm, reported that the rentals for the summer are filling up. Fred stated that anyone interested in renting the farm this year should call him at 814-834-7626.
Director Jim Dippold, who is chairing the lodge renovations, stated that it will be ready for rentals in the near future.
Director Bill Kotalac, rifle & pistol range chair, informed the membership that new targets have been placed on the pistol range. Bill noted that this range is for handguns only. Rifles are used at the rifle range.
Director Jerry Olson reported that he had talked to Tom McMann in relation to the growth of the weeds in the pond. Tom gave him some phone numbers for the Fish Commission and Penn State who can give the club some help in controlling the weeds.
Secretary Joe Hoffman, who is also coyote hunt chair, reported that 114 have signed up for the hunt at this time. Registration is available at Ammo & Arms and at the club on Monday nights. Joe said that the rules and regulations are available on the club’s website.
President Kris Dippold reminded members that Wednesdays or Thursday, depending on the weather, are workdays at the club. Kris stated that start time is 10 a.m. and finish around 2 p.m. Current work is working on removing invasive plants on the club’s grounds.
The next membership meeting will be on March 6 at 9 p.m. at the farm. Members are encouraged to attend.