By Tami Watt, Editor
SALAMANCA, NY- The Seneca Allegany Resort and Casino held their annual sportsman show February 29th- March 1st as hunting season ends and fishing season begins. Presented by York Penn Shows, the annual event has been on going for more than 10 years.
With over 350 tables and 40 booths, the sportsman’s show offers everything from guns, antique firearms, bows, fishing gear, trapping supplies, samurai swords, clothes, and even food. Vendors and participants filled the events center leaving only elbow to elbow room. Packed with everything you need for an outdoor adventure, the show is also educational as many experts are on hand to answer questions and give demonstrations.
The Seneca Nation Fish and Wildlife Department hosted a table promoting their new 1.5 mile 13 target archery course opened last fall. The course is located in next to their Fish Hatchery in Red House, NY near the Allegany State Park with plans to open in June.
Conservation Fish and Wildlife Officers (Allegany) Will Miller and Sam Agnew also discussed the Chestnut Tree Program that is currently under way while answering questions, trading tips, and sharing new techniques with fellow outdoorsman all weekend.
Johnny Gill, Conservation Fish and Wildlife Officer (Cattaraugus), worked along side Miller and Agnew over the two days and talked about their project with blanding turtles. They have also initiated a youth program for the community, Gill shared details with visitors that stopped by the table.
The $5,000 reward for a dead eagle found on the Old Road was a hot topic of discussion as many wildlife enthusiasts fumed about the atrocious act. All whom stopped to discuss the status of the situation were fully supportive in the search for the guilty party.
In the future, Director Allie George (Allegany) would like to sell fishing licenses next year to encourage tourism while offering the chance to enjoy the beauty of Ohi:yo’. He also encourages frequent visitors of their table to stop by their facilities to check out current projects in the works.
Director George commends all staff for their dedication and hard work. He has confidence in their expertise and knowledge in all facets of the Fish and Wildlife program and their ability to work well with the public. For more information on any programs mentioned please visit the Seneca Fish & Wildlife facebook pages.
