About the ODWC

Mission Statement

The mission of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation is the management, protection, and enhancement of wildlife resources and habitat for the scientific, educational, recreational, aesthetic, and economic benefits to present and future generations of citizens and visitors to Oklahoma.

Game and Fish Department Established

In 1909, the Association presented the second state legislature with a bill asking for the governor to appoint a state game warden and authorize the warden to hire eight salaried employees. The law was adopted and the Game and Fish Department was created. The first hunting license came into being with the fee set at $1.25.

1920 truck with the Fish & Game logo on the door Four years later the Department disbanded and the $94,000 accumulated from hunting license sales was put into the state capitol building fund. State sportsmen protested until finally the Department was reestablished in 1915. The first state hatchery was built at Medicine Park after the Department received $70,000 in appropriations.

In 1917, the legislature returned the Department's $94,000, specifying that the funds be used for developing game preserves and building fish hatcheries.

Throughout the 1920s more hatcheries were built, including one near Durant (1916-17), near Tahlequah (1924-26), Heavener (1925-26) and Cherokee in 1929.

The 1925 Legislature established the Oklahoma Game and Fish Commission largely through the encouragement of the
Oklahoma Division of the Isaac Walton League of America. The first fishing licenses were issued the same year and for the first time Oklahoma also protected its furbearing mammals.

Expansion During '30s and '40s

The 1930s and early '40s brought refinement to the game management techniques in Oklahoma. Efforts to stock ring-necked pheasants, initiated in the '20s, became fruitful in the 1930s. Bobwhite quail management was also emphasized. In 1943, changes in the authority delegated to various personnel made the state game warden duties comparable to those of a modern Department director. The Game and Fish Department's first monthly magazine, Oklahoma Game and Fish News, was born in 1945. 1942 image of a Department truck and two employees transporting fish

During this time the state capitol building housed the Department. The Department suffered from a lack of space until 1942 when it moved to the first floor. Meanwhile, fisheries personnel conducted research in basement rooms at the capitol.

In 1947, the state Game and Fish Warden title was changed to Director. The establishment of a single office in Oklahoma City centralized and strengthened the enforcement of the state game statutes.

The first pheasant season opened in 1948 with free permits issued for certain northwestern counties. At least one dream of early Oklahoma wildlife biologists had finally become a reality after 22 years of effort with the oriental import.

The game and fish statutes were updated in 1949, with fees for fishing and hunting licenses rising to $2, or $3.50 for a combination license.

Early Efforts Begin to Show Results

In 1960, efforts began for establishing several exotic bird species in the state, and the first fall turkey season was held. Two years later the first elk hunt was held and 42 elk were harvested.

Two years later the Department installed 14 radio base and relay stations, giving the Department statewide two-way radio communication.

1960s photo of the Departments Educational Wildlife Exhibit The 1960s saw the Department striving to provide the state's sportsmen with quality outdoor recreation. A significant trout stocking program began in 1964; mule deer from Colorado were released in the Glass Hills and the first spring turkey season was opened. The Department moved into its own building in 1966, the same year the first antelope season in state history was held.

The Department first offered hunter safety programs in 1965. Initially offered on a voluntary basis, the course became
mandatory in 1987 for all persons born after Jan. 1, 1972.

The '60s and '70s saw various hunting seasons expanded, a stabilized deer herd and new fish species introduced such as the striped bass. The recreational opportunities for anglers and hunters were growing.

Great strides were made in the '80s. The trout stocking program was expanded; saugeye and giant Canada geese
establishment programs were initiated. Three new programs -- Conservation Education, Aquatic Resources Education and Nongame Wildlife -- were created. In addition, hunters saw the deer harvest jump from about 14,000 in 1980 to more than 70,000 in 1997, expansion of controlled hunts and the first statewide turkey season. Three major wildlife management areas were purchased, adding 52,500 acres to Department-managed lands.

Looking to the Future

Early Oklahoma conservationists fought to save the last remnants of the state's game animals and fish for future generations. The men who formulated Oklahoma's modern wildlife conservation practices in the '40s and '50s, emphasized the wise use of our outdoor resources. They built a tradition, a tradition based on providing variety and quality in state hunting and fishing. The Department has retained this tradition it will continue to clearly demonstrate this by building for the future a healthy environment where nature can survive in harmony with the needs of modern man.

History of the Wildlife Department

Timeline of Major Events

J.D. Strong
Director
(405) 522-6279

J.D. Strong was selected in September 2016 by the eight-member Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission to serve as the Director of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

J.D. Strong came on board as Director of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation in October 2016 after 23 years of experience working in the environmental arena. He had been Executive Director of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board since 2010. Though he originally started his career doing water and biological research for the OWRB, his time there was split while he served as former Gov. Brad Henry’s Secretary of the Environment from 2008-10 and before that as Director of Environmental Affairs then Chief of Staff in the state Office of the Secretary of Environment. He brings to the Department his rich experience working with legislators, sister agencies, partner organizations and key stakeholders on a number of complex environmental issues, such as the historic water settlement with the Chickasaw and Choctaw nations.

An active sportsman, Strong is a fifth-generation Oklahoman from Weatherford. He earned a degree in wildlife ecology from Oklahoma State University in 1993.

Wade Free
Assistant Director, Operations
(405) 521-4660

Wade Free was named the Assistant Director of Operations in 2011. He supervises the fish and wildlife management programs (Fish and Wildlife divisions), Law Enforcement and Information and Education divisions. The Assistant Director aids in executive duties and serves as Acting Director in the Director's absence.

Melinda Sturgess-Streich
Assistant Director of Administration & Finance
(405) 521-6685

Melinda Sturgess-Streich has been the Assistant Director of Administration & Finance since 2006. She supervises Licensing, Accounting, Human Resources, Information Technology, Property, and Communication Personnel. The Assistant Director aids in executive duties and serves as Acting Director in the Director’s absence.

Nels Rodefeld
Information and Education Chief
(405) 521-3855

Nels Rodefeld has been the Chief of Information and Education Division since 2006. He oversees education programs, publications, television and website content.

Alan Peoples
Wildlife Chief
(405) 521-2739

Alan Peoples has been Chief of Wildlife Division since 1999. He oversees all biologists and technicians on Wildlife Management Areas as well as wildlife research initiatives.

Barry Bolton
Fisheries Chief
(405) 521-3721

Barry Bolton has been Chief of Fisheries Division since 2007. He oversees four state fish hatcheries, a research laboratory and regional biologists and technicians.

Bill Hale
Law Enforcement Chief
(405) 521-3719

Bill Hale has been Chief of Law Enforcement Division since 2016. He oversees over 100 game wardens stationed in all 77 counties.

A simple "Thank You" can't express the extent of appreciation that is felt when someone goes above and beyond to lend a hand. And this is never more true than with the many groups that have become our invaluable partners in conserving Oklahoma's tremendous natural resources. The Wildlife Department , and in turn you as a sportsman, are blessed by these quality organizations that have made significant contributions to wildlife management in Oklahoma during the past year.

Date	Name	Donation	Purpose
03/10/2017	Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation	$3,417.47	This donation from the Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation covered 25 percent of the cost of rental equipment used to make improvements to the Evening Hole area of the Lower Mt. Fork River trout stream.
02/28/2017	National Rifle Association	$6,000	This donation from the National Rifle Association will help fund upcoming renovations to the shooting range at Lexington Wildlife Management Area. The renovated range will include covered shooting benches, backstop, target stands, side berms, a pipe fence, new walkway, parking, signs and lead management. This as well as other renovated or newly constructed ODWC shooting ranges will be ADA compliant. Our sincere thanks to the NRA for participating in this project.
01/01/2017	National Wild Turkey Federation	$100,564	These funds from the National Wild Turkey Federation are part of a FY2017 super fund donation of nearly $150,000 to help fund a wide range of conservation efforts and needs across the state of Oklahoma. Over $100,000 of that goes toward ODWC efforts, including $40,000 toward habitat projects and equipment for Wildlife Management Areas like Black Kettle, Pushmataha, Packsaddle, Cherokee, Cookson, Ellis County and others. Another $40,000 was designated to help the ODWC with land acquisition efforts. Additionally, portions of these grant funds support the ODWC's National Archery in the Schools and Scholastic Shooting Sports programs ($10,000 toward each).
12/13/2016	Zebco Brands/W.C. Bradley Co	$750	This contribution helps fund trout stocking at the Close to Home Fishing Pond at Veteran's Pond in Jenks.
12/13/2016	The Corrigan-Goddard Foundation	$20,000	The Corrigan-Goddard Foundation donated $20,000 to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's Law Enforcement Division.
11/07/2016	Trout Unlimited	$16,950	Trout Unlimited is an exceptional partner with the Wildlife Department. This donation was for the installment of a public restroom at the Simp and Helen Watts Fish and Wildlife Management Area on the Lower Illinois River.
10/24/2016	89er Chapter Trout Unlimited	$1,200	The 89er Chapter of Trout Unlimited signed a 3-year MOA to provide funds that will be matched for the purchase of rainbow trout for the Dolese Trout Program in Oklahoma City.
10/17/2016	BancFirst	$2500	BancFirst partnered with ODWC to fund the trout stocking program at the Close to Home Fishing Pond located at Veteran's Pond in Jenks.
10/17/2016	Dolese Brothers	$3,500	This donation from Dolese Brothers is part of a three-year MOA to provide funds for the purchase of rainbow trout stockings for Dolese Trout Program in Oklahoma City.
10/13/2016	Lower Mountain Fork Foundation	$1,053	The Lower Mountain Fork Foundation donated to help fund a stocking trailer and fish hauling tank for the Lower Mountain Fork River trout stream.
09/23/2016	Terry's Taxidermy	Materials and Services	Metro taxidermist Terry's Taxidermy donated 200 lbs. of venison summer sausage and 200 lbs. of ground venison for chili, both to be served at the Oklahoma Wildlife Expo Taste of the Wild booth. Visitors to the Taste of the Wild booth sample a variety of wild game while enjoying the activities and booths at the event. The much-welcomed and appreciated donation represents an approx. $3,500 value.
08/15/2016	Bill Horn	Material/services	Bill Horn a freelance photographer donated over 200 images, mostly of birds to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife. These images can be used for publications or at will where needed.
08/10/2016	Morrell Manufacturing Inc.	$5,210.00	Morrell Manufacturing Inc. made a $2110 and $3100 donation to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife's Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools Program (OKNASP) in 2016. Schools across the country are discovering an exciting new program that hits the bullseye in meeting the physical education needs of their students. Through the Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools (OKNASP) Program, students have the chance to excel today, tomorrow and throughout a lifetime in the unique sport of archery. The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), of which OKNASP is a part, is a coordinated effort and partnership between schools, state wildlife agencies and the nation’s archery industry.
07/28/2016	Blue River Fly Fishers	$4,100	This donation from the Blue River Fly Fishers group was for the purchase of trout for the catch and release portion of the Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area and for general improvements to the area.
07/07/2016	Oklahoma Striped Bass Association	$2,000.00	The Oklahoma Striped Bass Association made a donation to ODWC for purchasing equipment for the management, research or production of striped bass in the state of Oklahoma. Naturally reproducing populations of striped bass have developed in lakes Texoma and Keystone and in the Arkansas River Navigation System. Foss, Tenkiller, Canton, Great Salt Plains, Grand and Kaw lakes also have been stocked.
07/05/2016	Oklahoma Station-Safari Club International	$3664	Oklahoma Station-Safari Club International has partnered with the ODWC for many years on many projects. Among them this year was a donation the ODWC Hunters Against Hunger Program, a cooperative program with your local processor, the Wildlife Department and YOU to provide high quality meals to Oklahoma’s hungry. Hunters who legally harvest a deer during any of this year’s deer seasons can donate the meat to feed hungry Oklahomans. The group has also supported the ODWC Stars & Stripes License Project that provides hunting and fishing licenses to veterans and qualified family members, and also to the ODWC's Law Enforcement Division.
06/29/2016	Oklahoma Zoological Society	$6,737.75	The Oklahoma Zoological Society donated these funds to be used thru the Wildlife Department's Wildlife Diversity Program for conservation projects in Oklahoma.
06/06/2016	Quail Forever	$5,000.00	Two different Quail Forever Chapters each donated $2500.00 totalling $5,000.00. These donations are for quail habitat equipment and to improve nesting cover.
05/23/2016	Quail Forever	$3,000	Quail Forever's donation helped purchase a trailer for the transport of tractor/equipment between Lexington and Grady County WMAs. The Grady County WMA is being managed with extra emphasis on quail, with prescribed fire and grazing to increase vegetational diversity and structure.
05/18/2016	Quail Forever	$5,000.00	Quail Forever donated $5,000 to ODWC for the purchase of a skid steer loader and implements for the central regions Wildlife Management Areas. Wildlife Management Areas are lands owned, licensed, leased or under the management of the Wildlife Division. The primary objective on all lands owned or managed by the Department is the sound management and use of fish and wildlife resources.
05/02/2016	St. Mary's Catholic School	$750.00	St. Mary's Catholic School donated funds to be specifically designated to purchase archery equipment needed for a new school starting the Archery in the Schools Program. Schools across the country are discovering an exciting new program that hits the bullseye in meeting the physical education needs of their students. Through the Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools (OKNASP) Program, students have the chance to excel today, tomorrow and throughout a lifetime in the unique sport of archery. The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), of which OKNASP is a part, is a coordinated effort and partnership between schools, state wildlife agencies and the nation’s archery industry. In Oklahoma, OKNASP promotes physical education by providing target archery training to the state’s youth. Designed for 4th-12th graders, the curriculum covers archery history, safety, techniques, equipment, mental concentration and self-improvement.
04/27/2016	DJ's Fundraising, INC	$1000.00	DJ's Fundraising donated $1,000.00 to the ODWC Shotgun Training and Education Program (STEP). The STEP program offers a broad range of learning opportunities for beginners as well as experienced hunters with special emphasis on teaching basic wing-shooting techniques and fundamentals. The program projects a positive image toward hunting and general acceptance of responsible gun ownership. Another important purpose for the program is the recruitment of new hunters for future interest in wildlife conservation and outdoor activities. In addition, the program exposes participants to the use of nontoxic shot to develop hunter confidence in lead-free shot shell alternatives.
04/20/2016	Randy and Mary Wedel	Materials/services	Randy and Mary Wedel donated leftover fishing equipment from a building they purchased. The items donated will be used for the ODWC The Aquatic Resources Education Program (AREP). AREP promotes the sport of fishing and aquatic resource awareness as well as a way to give youth, an opportunity to learn about Oklahoma's aquatic environments and how to fish. The equipment donation is in the amount of $1400.00.
04/08/2016	Samuel Barrick and Larry Brown	$1600.00	These donations of $1,500 from Samuel Barrick and $100 from Larry Brown to the ODWC Law Division made it possible to fund the purchase of a decoy deer used by law enforcement to battle poaching in the state.
04/08/2016	Whitetails of Oklahoma	$2,000	This donation from Whitetails of Oklahoma was a contribution to the ODWC Wildlife Division.
03/25/2016	Arkansas-Oklahoma Railroad	Materials/services	The Arkansas-Oklahoma Railroad sponsored the ODWC Youth Camp, which gives youth a better understanding of careers in wildlife and fisheries management and law enforcement. The camp is conducted entirely by game wardens, wildlife and fisheries professionals and dedicated hunters and anglers.
03/01/2016	Tom J. and Edna Mae Carson Foundation	$1,000	In support of the Monarch Watch Program at Hackberry Flat Wildlife Management Area in southwest Oklahoma.
03/01/2016	Boy Scout Troop 302	$1,000	Boy Scout Troop 302 provided $1,000 to be used at the Byron Hatchery Watchable Wildlife Area.
02/12/2016	Dennis Parr	$200	For conservation efforts on Lexington Wildlife Management Area in central Oklahoma.
01/06/2016	NatureWorks	$20,000	NatureWorks is a Tulsa-based conservation group that donated $20,000 for work on Cherokee Wildlife Management Area.
01/06/2016	89er Chapter of Trout Unlimited	$875.00	This late 2015 donation from the 89er Chapter of Trout Unlimited made it possible to purchase trout for the 2015-16 Dolese Winter Trout Program.
01/04/2016	Shikar-Safari Club International	$75,000	Shikar-Safari Club International provided a grant in the amount of $50,000 in late 2015 for firearms replacement for the Wildlife Department's Law Enforcement Division. The group also provided a $25,000 grant in 2016 for bear population research in eastern Oklahoma.
01/01/2016	National Wild Turkey Federation	$48,000	This grant from the National Wild Turkey Federation helps fund a wide range of conservation efforts and needs across the state of Oklahoma.
01/01/2016	Larry and Brenda Potterfield	$919,500	These funds are donated for the Oklahoma Scholastic Shooting Sports Program. They are to be used to fund the program's regional and state shoots each year. They are also used to set up endowments for each school that participates in the program. The funds include $837,500 for endowments and $82,000 for operation of regionals and the state shoot. This contributes in a significant way to students across Oklahoma getting the opportunity to participate in competitive shotgun shooting sports in their schools.
01/01/2016	Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation	$23,339	This Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation donation contributes to a range of Oklahoma conservation projects, including to Oklahoma conservation in a number of ways, including a $1,000 donation in support of the ODWC Youth Camp, which gives teens a better understanding of careers in wildlife and fisheries management and law enforcement. The camp is conducted entirely by game wardens, wildlife and fisheries professionals and dedicated hunters and anglers. The group also donated to habitat work at Pushmataha and Cherokee WMAs.
01/01/2015	Williams Companies	$90,000	Voluntary restoration and conservation program to support habitat conservation and restoration project for land acquisition.

Who pays for wildlife in Oklahoma?

The agency receives no general tax revenues.

The bulk of Department income is generated from the sale of annual hunting and fishing licenses. The agency still works for all of the citizens of Oklahoma, though. The next time you see a white-tailed deer, a bald eagle’s nest or a child’s smile after catching his or her first fish, you can thank the Wildlife Department and the many dedicated sportsmen and women who pay to keep our outdoor heritage alive.

Sources of Income

The Department has an annual budget of about $61.5 million. The agency receives no general tax revenues. The bulk of Department income is generated from the sale of annual hunting and fishing licenses.

Funds received from:

Hunting and Fishing License Sales (44%)
Federal Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Grants (34 %)
Other Income (22%)
- Agriculture and Oil Leases
- Other Wildlife Sales (penalties and fines collected due to fish and game law violations, magazine sales, Deer Management Assistance Program, the sale of used equipment and vehicles, boat and motor registration, etc.)
- Donations and Misc. Income ( endangered species funds, from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for various projects, from the North American Wetlands Conservation Act for wetlands protection, and from the Forest Stewardship program.)

Please note that we cannot be responsible for the accuracy or content of other agencies or organizations. Thank you for visiting Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Discover the Forest - encourages and helps young people get outdoors.
Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Marine Fisheries Service
National Park Service
National Wildlife Refuge System

SEAFWA
WAFWA

Ouachita National Forest Motorized Routes

OTHER STATE FISH AND WILDLIFE AGENCIES

Alabama Game and Fish Division
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
California Department of Fish and Game
Colorado Division of Wildlife
Connecticut Fisheries Division and Wildlife Division
Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife in the Department of Natural Resources
Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission
Georgia Wildlife Resources Division
Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife and Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Indiana Division of Fish and Wildlife
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Massachusetts Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Environmental Law Enforcement
Michigan Department of Resources
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
Missouri Department of Conservation
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Nevada Division of Wildlife
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
New Jersey Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
New York Department of Environmental Conservation
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
North Dakota Game and Fish Department
Ohio Division of Wildlife
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Pennsylvania Game Commission
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife
Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Wyoming Game and Fish Department

OTHER SITES

Fishing Related Links

Conservation related links

MAPS

The 56th Legislature has adjouned.

Dormant Wildlife Legislation

Wildlife Legislation signed by Governor

Oklahoma State Legislature Website

1895 – First game laws passed by Territorial lawmakers – Rainbow trout first stocked in Oklahoma by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

1907 – Oklahoma became a state

1909 – Hunting licenses established – First Game Warden hired – Wildlife Department created

1911 – Ring-necked pheasant first introduced

1913 – Legislature closes Department, $94,000 in license funds transferred to State Capitol Building Fund

1915 – Department reopens with appropriation from Legislature – Medicine Park Fish Hatchery (J.A. Manning) opens

1917 – Legislature returns $94,000 to Department

1918 – Purchase of McCurtain County Wilderness Area

1925 – First fishing licenses established

1929 – Byron Fish hatchery opens

1931 – Game Farm opens at Darlington

1933 – First deer gun season

1934 – Holdenville Hatchery opens

1944 – Deer relocation program initiated

1945 – Information & Education Division created – "Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine established

1946 – First deer archery season – First weekly news releases issued

1947 – Cooperative Fisheries Experimental Station established at University of Oklahoma (now exists as Oklahoma Fisheries Research Lab.)

1948 – First private pond stocking policy adopted – Program to re-establish turkey populations initiated 1949 -- First Rio Grande turkeys released (Harper County)

1950 -- First walleye stocking in Canton Reservoir and Tenkiller Reservoir

1955 -- Striped bass stocked in Great Salt Plains and Lake Murray (not successful) – Hunter safety program initiated

1957 -- Department became a constitutional body

1958 -- First rainbow trout stocking in Illinois River below Tenkiller

1959 -- Lake Etling winter-time trout stocking program begins

1960 -- Autumn marked the state's first fall turkey season.

1962 -- Forty-two elk were harvested at Oklahoma's first elk hunt. The Department installed 14 radio base and relay stations, allowing statewide two-way

radio communication.

1962 -- First antlerless deer season

1965 -- Mule deer from Colorado were released in the Glass Hills and the first spring turkey season was opened.

1965 -- Department emblem established – First spring turkey season

1966 -- First attempt at introducing giant Canada geese.

1966 -- Opened state's first antelope season. The Department moved into its own building near the state Capitol.

1967 -- Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area land purchased.

1969 -- First primitive deer season.

1969 -- The first Lifetime Combination License was sold for $150.

1970s Various hunting seasons were lengthened and the state boasted a stabilized deer herd.

1970 -- First successful natural reproduction by striped bass in Keystone

1971 -- Environmental Program established -- First eastern turkeys released (LeFlore and Delaware Counties)

1971 -- Wild turkey restocking program successfully re-established the eastern wild turkey throughout much of the state east of U.S. Highway 69.

1972 -- Environment section created as a clearing house for all pollution related complaints and inquiries. It was later incorporated into the natural resources

section.

1974 -- First natural reproduction by striped bass in Texoma

1977 -- Striped bass hybrids first stocked in Oklahoma (Sooner Lake)

1976 -- Started production of a weekly 30- minute show for Oklahoma Educational Television stations. It emphasizes wildlife management and provides

useful information on outdoor recreational activities.

1977 -- Started statewide furbearer program to assure the continued availability of furbearer programs for many years to come.

1979 -- Operation Game Thief telephone installed

1980 -- Duck Stamp Program initiated

-- Lower Mountain Fork River year round trout stocking program begins

--Giant Canada goose introduction

1980s -- Controlled hunts were expanded, and Oklahoma had its first statewide turkey season. The Department purchased three major wildlife

management areas, adding 52,500 acres to the program.

1980 -- Began waterfowl habitat development program utilizing funds generated from the new $4 Oklahoma Waterfowl Stamp.

1981 -- Nongame Wildlife Program and tax checkoff established

1982 -- First successful introduction of giant Canada geese

1983 --James Porter breaks the 43-year-old state record for largemouth bass with a catch weighing 12 pounds, 1.6 ounces at Lake Lawtonka -- Fish

habitat development program initiated

1983 -- Department assumed management of a 10,000-acre wildlife management area to be developed in conjunction with the McGee Creek reservoir in

Atoka County. The Department purchases a 160-acre addition to Lexington Wildlife Management Area.

1984 -- Developed statewide conservation education program with the primary instructional vehicle being Project WILD.

1984 -- Extended hunter safety-training classes from a six-hour to a 10-hour course for certification. All game wardens recertified as hunter safety instructors for their assigned areas.

1985 -- Saugeye first stocked in state (Lake Thunderbird )

1986 -- Lake Watonga winter-time trout stocking program begins

1988 -- Trout stocking program was expanded from two to five areas. Quartz Mountain State Park wintertime trout stocking begins. First brown trout

stocking takes place in lower Mountain Fork River.

1988 -- Aquatic Resources Education Program was established The program teaches aquatic resource conservation, fishing techniques, safety, ethics and

fish identification and biology to youth, handicapped and other target groups.

1988 --- Lower Mountain Fork River year round trout stocking program begins

1989 -- Oklahoma Angler Recognition Program was started under the Aquatic Resources Education Program. It increases awareness of the state's aquatic

resources and encourages selective catch and release of a trophy fish.

1989 -- The deer harvest jumped from approximately 14,000 in 1980 to more than 38,000.

1990s -- Almost 40,000 acres was added to Department-owned lands. They include: Hackberry Flat; Packsaddle; Blue River; Yourman; and Cooper

WMAs; expansion of the Deep Fork WMA; and Selman Bat Cave.

1991 -- Brown trout introduced to the tailwaters below Broken Bow Reservoir.

1991 -- Nationally recognized Packsaddle quail mortality study begins

1992 -- Natural Resources Section created to coordinate the Department's environmental, nongame wildlife and conservation education programs.

1992 -- Cooperative outreach project with Sportfishing Promotion Council, which sponsors the 1-800-ASK-FISH phone line. This is a toll-free, 24-hour

hotline for anglers needing information about fishing in Oklahoma.

1992 -- Deer Management Assistance Program initiated to help landowners and managers manage deer herd as well as hunting opportunities.

1993 -- Biodiversity Project initiated to produce statewide plan for conserving Oklahoma's diverse ecosystems.

1993 -- Hunter Education law changed in September, requiring persons under 16 who are hunting big game with a firearm to complete a hunter education

course.

1993 -- Durant Hatchery was renovated, increasing annual production by 1.7 million fish. Department fish hatcheries stocked almost 30 million fish over the

course of two years.

1994 -- Robbers Cave State Park winter time trout stocking begins.

1994 -- Wildlife Conservation license plates introduced. Two plate designs introduced: a white-tailed deer and a scissor-tailed flycatcher in flight. Currently

five plates are available including an Eastern wild turkey, bobwhite quail and a largemouth bass.

1995 -- Five wetland/waterfowl development projects totaling 1,367 acres were completed. They include: Billy Creek, Walker Creek, Hackberry Flat

(Phase I), Oilton, Deep Fork/Harold Stuart and Deep Fork/Swift Bottoms. A total of 165 acres of forested wetlands were restored through

seeding/planting methods on the Deep Fork WMA and Whitegrass Flats tracts.

1995 -- Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program underway. Universal License system initiated. Controlled hunt drawings conducted by computer.

1995 -- Purchased 340-acre Selman Bat Cave Wildlife Management Area.

1996 -- New watchable wildlife area at Byron hatchery. This is the first watchable wildlife area on a Department-owned area.

1996 -- Darlington Game Farm closed. Ground broken for Hackberry Flat WMA.

1996 -- ODWC embarked on a unique partnership with a corporate landowner in developing a new WMA. Honobia Creek WMA is the result of a

partnership with Hancock Timber Resources Group and covers 200,000 acres in Pushmataha and LeFlore counties.

1997 -- Youth turkey and deer hunts have been expanded. Another record deer harvest occurred with more than 71,000 animals harvested.

1997 -- Lake Pawhuska winter-time trout stocking program begins -- Selman bat viewing tours began.

1998 -- Stream management program begins. Prairie Chicken Season closed. Three Rivers WMA opens.

1998 -- Expanded a top-line Internet web site that is updated weekly to include all the latest ODWC information - www.wildlifedepartment.com.

1998 -- Hunter education program began offering home study certification.

1998 -- Designed and developed a 23-acre urban wetland and interpretive trail in the Teal Ridge housing addition in Stillwater.

1998 -- Bass Pro sells hunting and fishing licenses 24 hours a day, seven days a week, over the phone.

1998 -- Three Rivers WMA stems from a partnership with Weyerhaeuser Company and covers 450,000 acres of rugged timberland in McCurtain County.

Residents and nonresidents alike can enjoy the many activities both areas offer with the simple purchase of a land access fee permit.

1999 -- Department offers weekly news releases by e-mail.

2000 -- For the first time deer harvest numbers tops 100,000.

2001 -- First Special Antlerless season is held in December and expanded deer archery season in January.

2002 -- Department partners with the Oklahoma Aquarium and relocates its Tulsa area offices to Jenks.

2003 -- First statewide youth antlerless deer gun season is held in October.

2003 -- Gun deer season extended to 16 days statewide.

2003 -- Hunting and fishing licenses available online.

2003 -- Maps of the Department’s Wildlife Management Areas are made available free to sportsmen over the Internet.

2003 -- Special emphasis given to helping private landowners improve fish and wildlife habitat through a grant from the National Resources Conservation

Service. Four technicians dedicated to assisting landowners are hired.

2004 -- Turkey bag limit increased and southeast season dates extended (for spring 2005 season).

2004 -- Archery in the Schools program developed to introduce students to the sport of archery.

2004 -- Fishing and Hunting Legacy Permit created to provide funds for the purchase of additional lands for outdoor recreation opportunities.

2004 -- Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission and Renewable Resources, LLC, agreement, allows for almost 30,000 acres of commercial

forestland to remain open to public use as part of the Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA).

2005 -- "Hughes Crossing at the Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area dedication.

2005 -- An internet point of sales license system is implemented.

2005 -- New partner joins Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area with a land access agreement with J.M. Huber Corporation, a private forest

investment company, to maintain public recreational access to 4,440 acres of the Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA).

2005 -- Department hosted the first Oklahoma Wildlife Expo at the Lazy E Arena. More than 45,000 people attended.

2005 -- Development of the Evening Hole and Lost Creek projects on the Lower Mountain Fork River began.

2005 -- Ozark Plateau WMA opens.

2005 -- Oklahoma's Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy is approved.

2006 -- Reproduction of rainbow trout was first documented in the Lower Mountain Fork River.

2006 -- Oklahoma’s first black bass hybrid state record was caught at Veteran’s Lake.

2006 -- The Lower Illinois River Simp and Helen Watts Public Fishing and Hunting Area was purchased with funds from the sale of fishing and hunting

legacy permits.

2006 -- New opportunities added for hunters and trappers. Sportsmen are allowed to take red fox.

2006 -- The Evening Hole and Lost Creek projects on the Lower Mountain Fork River completed.

2006 -- Second annual Wildlife Expo draws nearly 35,000 people

2007 -- Tenth Anniversary of the Selman Bat Watch

2007 -- Controlled Hunts application submission is all done electronically through the Department's Web site.

2007 -- Wildlife Department creates pilot paddlefish management program near Twin Bridges area of the Neosho River to collect important data for the

Department's paddlefish management plan, process paddlefish meat for anglers and salvage paddle fish eggs.

2007 -- Department initiates new wetland restoration project at Drummond Flat area to restore a unique wetland habitat and create more opportunities for

sportsmen and other wildlife enthusiasts.

2007 -- Hunting participation encouraged through apprentice-designated license which encourage those who have never hunted to do so under supervision

of a licensed hunter.

2008 -- Lake Record Fish Program established to recognize Oklahoma anglers and fish. Thirteen major lakes and 13 species of popular Oklahoma fish are included initially.

2008 -- On Nov. 4, 2008 Oklahomans voiced their opinions in the ballot box on hunting, fishing and trapping by amending the State Constitution to give all people the right to hunt, trap, fish and take game and fish. It also makes hunting, fishing, and trapping the preferred means to manage certain fish and game animals.

2008 -- More than 3,000 acres in southeast Oklahoma are opened to public hunting and fishing in LeFlore County’s Cucumber Creek area.

2008 -- Oklahoma Archery in the Schools program surpasses 100 school milestone and state tournament draws more than 800 students.

2008 -- Two new WMAs were acquired in 2008, Cimarron Bluff and Cimarron Hills in Harper County provide anglers and hunters access to more than 7,100 acres of public land.

2009 -- Groundbreaking of 7,000 square foot Arcadia Conservation Education Area teaching facility. The new facility will be used for a number of education and outreach purposes including hunter education and aquatic education classes and Archery in the Schools training.

2009 -- Five year hunting and fishing license offered to sportsmen.

2009 -- Archery in the Schools State Shoot had over 1,000 students from approximately 160 schools at the Cox Convention

2009 -- First Black Bear Season in Oklahoma opened on October 1st, 2009 in SE Oklahoma (Latimer, LeFlore, McCurtain and Pushmataha Counties). On opening day Joe Russell of Neshoba became the first Oklahoma hunter to harvest a black bear.

2009 -- Oklahoma archers make history when the state’s first ever antelope archery season opened on September 14. Archery hunters can now purchase antelope licenses over-the-counter for the 14-day archery season without having to be drawn for a hunt

2009 -- Deer hunters were given the option of checking their deer in using the internet for the first time in 2009. The Department continues to explore the best ways to use technology to improve wildlife management across the state.

2009 -- New multi purpose building at Lake Arcadia Conservation Education Area begun

2009 -- U.S. Olympic Committee designates Univ. of Central Oklahoma as an official Olympic and Paralympic training site for archery (which the Arcadia C.E.A. will be the site of future UCO archery range facilities).

2010 -- Oklahoma black bear archery season opened and closed in one day when hunters reached the quota of 20 bears Oct. 1 in southeast Oklahoma. A total of 32 black bears were harvested Oct. 1, which is 13 more than were harvested in about a month’s time last year.

2010 -- Oklahoma opens archery season to crossbow hunters.

2010 -- Sixth annual Wildlife Expo draws record crowds with an estimated attendance of almost 52,000 visitors.

2010 -- Approval of a memorandum of agreement with OG&E to offset the impact of the 151 MW “Keenan Phase II” wind farm on lesser prairie chickens in northwest Oklahoma. OG&E is purchasing 100 percent of the energy produced from the wind farm, which is owned by an independent wind farm developer. The agreement secures $4.9 million for projects such as conservation easements to protect undeveloped property, management agreements to restore property with critical habitat and acquisition of land by the Wildlife Department to protect and restore habitat for lesser prairie chickens.

2011 -- A new cooperative agreement between the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and Molpus Timberlands Management, LLC (Molpus) will allow continued public recreation on 16,311 acres of the Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area in southeast Oklahoma.

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