Outdoor notes

Published: Thursday, March 23, 2006 3:24 p.m. MST
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TRANSCEIVER EVENT

Solitude will host the avalanche transceiver awareness program called "Beacon and Eggs" April 8 from noon to 2 p.m.

The program, which began last season at Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort, is a non-profit endeavor to get backcountry and resort recreationalists to not only wear a transceiver, but regularly use and practice with it.

The event will be a transceiver search. Individuals will vie for the fastest search time. The top finishers from Solitude's search will receive prizes and qualify to compete in Snowbird's larger and more complex Transceiver Championship on April 15.

Rescue situations require an individual to be found and dug out within 15 minutes or less of burial for the best chance of survival. Search and Rescue teams rarely can react within this time frame, thus requiring backcountry enthusiasts to be practiced and well-versed in using their avalanche rescue training and equipment.

For information call 801-536-5753.

NO LICENSE FEES

The Utah Legislature awarded the Division of Wildlife Resources $2.2 million in additional funding during this past session, which means hunters and fishermen won't see an increase in licenses next year.

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The money was given to cover a budget shortfall the division was facing. Without the extra money, the DWR faced two choices: Raise fishing and hunting license fees or make substantial budget cuts that would include reducing employees.

Even with the ongoing funding, the DWR could face another shortfall in 2008 if the agency doesn't find a way to obtain additional revenue.

"We're looking at several new options to attract more people to fishing and hunting," said Jim Karpowitz, director of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. New license sales could offset the need for license fee increases in 2008.

In addition to the $2.2 million added to the DWR's budget, state legislators approved $5 million to rebuild the Midway State Fish Hatchery and $2.5 million to improve watersheds in Utah.

SLED HOCKEY EVENT

Sled hockey teams from across the country are coming to Park City March 29-April 1 to compete in the Great Salt Cup. This will be the first time the National Ability Center will host the four-team tournament, taking place at the new and fully accessible Park City Ice Arena.

Teams participating in the tournament include Utah's sled hockey team, the NAC Golden Eagles, as well as the New England Bruins, Colorado Avalanche and Sacramento Lightning. Sled hockey Paralympic gold medallist David Conklin will be competing in the tournament in hopes of leading the Sacramento Lightning to victory.

Sled hockey allows people with physical disabilities affecting lower limbs to use sleds to move around the ice. Other than this adaptation, the rules are very similar to regular hockey games. It is a high-energy, incredibly fast-paced game. This is the first time the event has been in Park City, and it is free to all spectators. Games will take place each morning and evening.

The National Ability Center is committed to the development of lifetime skills for people of all ages and abilities by providing affordable outdoor sports and recreational experiences in a nurturing environment.

The center's motto is "If I can do this, I can do anything." For more information about the Great Salt Cup or NAC Golden Eagles, please see www.nac1985.org, or call the center at 435-649-3991.

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