ESCANABA—On July 13-14,, the Butler Building at the U.P. State Fairgrounds here will be filled to capacity with trappers, predator callers, other outdoorsmen, trapping supply dealers, lure and bait makers, fur auction representatives, gun dealers, ORV dealers, taxidermists, crafters, quilters and more, when the U.P. Trappers Association hosts its 50th anniversary convention.

WATERSMEET.—The ISCCW (Invasive Species Control Coalition of Watersmeet), also known as Lakeguards, was established in September 2007.
 Its mission is to assure that waterways and lands in Watersmeet Township, state of Michigan, are environmentally sound, free of invasive species and suitable for a variety of recreational uses for the benefit of residents of the community at large.

Dan and Sue Passamani had a new visitor to their yard this year – a young beaver checking out the neighborhood. More Outdoor Observations in this week's Reporter.

CRYSTAL FALLS—Families get ready to fish Runkle Lake with the children.
 Wildlife Unlimited of Iron County will sponsor a Family Fishing contest Saturday, June 23, at Runkle Lake here. The event will take place at the Runkle Lake City Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

FLORENCE, Wis.—The Northwoods Geology Club will meet June 27 at 6:30 p.m. at the Florence Natural Resource Center’s lower level here.
 Admission is free; there will be snacks and door prizes.
 The program will include wire wrapping with stones.
 For more information, go to www.northwoodsgeology.com.

By Bill Ziegler For the Iron County Reporter
IRON COUNTY—As a fisheries student at the University of Michigan, School of Natural Resources, I talked one of my professors into letting me design an Independent Study Course working with Michigan DNR conservation officers.

Cole and Cami Alexa get fishing tips from Bewabic State Park Officer James Peace during the Saturday, June 9 kids’ derby held at the park. (Marko Brickman photo)

ALPHA—As part of the Porter School Market Place’s season open house, fly fishing enthusiasts can “tie one on” for Father’s Day on Saturday, June 16.
 Fly-tying demonstrations will take place, with Paul Kaylor and Maddision Scarlassara.

ALPHA—The Alpha Defensive Pistol Association offers entry level shooting opportunities on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. at the Alpha Rifle and Pistol Club shooting range.

IRON RIVER—The Lake Ottawa Kids Fishing Derby was held on Saturday, June 9. The event, sponsored by the Ottawa National Forest, had 33 entrants. Winners of the derby are listed below.
 Casting Contest: 6-under: 1. Carter Sheldon, age 2; 2. Julia Hall, age 6; 7-10: 1. Thomas Galek, age 10; 2. Nick Gorman, age 8; 11-16: 1. Riley Stine, age 12; 2. Lexi Jacks, age 11.