Outside Notes – August seventh | Journey and open air

The firearms industry exceeds $ 14 billion in conservation tax contributions

The Firearms Industry Trade Association, NSSF, marked a milestone this month when firearms and ammunition manufacturers have made more than $ 14.1 billion in contributions to the Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund since its inception in 1937 and ammunition manufacturers through those they make Products. According to a press release from the NSSF, the excise tax applies to all firearms made for commercial sale or imported, regardless of whether they are used for recreational shooting, hunting or personal defense. The funds will be administered by the US Fish & Wildlife Service and will be used by state wildlife protection agencies.

Maryland artist wins California duck stamp competition

A Bethesda painting by Diane Ford was selected as the winner of the 2020 California Duck Stamp Art Contest. The painting features a pair of gadwalls and will be the state’s official postage stamp design for 2021-2022. Check out the winning badge at Wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/collector-stamps.

State record with 301 pound swordfish

An Anne Arundel County angler is now the first officially recognized state record holder for swordfish, caught in a tournament in Ocean City on July 23. Peter Schultz of Annapolis caught the 301-pound swordfish while participating in the Big Fish Classic tournament and landed his catch about 80 miles offshore in Washington Canyon. Schultz credits his team for helping him catch the fish after an eight hour effort. For more information on state record fish, please visit www.dnr.maryland.gov.

Basic course in flint processing August 21st

Primal Knowledge on Buffington Road, Woodsboro will be teaching a basic flint-firing class on August 21st from 10:00 am-3:00pm, led by Guy Neal. The cost is $ 129 and advance booking is required. Learn the basic steps required to produce a deadly chase point, starting with hammer drilling and how to start with a stone blank, and the presser flocking strategies needed to finish the point. Primal Knowledge offers one-day, small-group courses, weekend courses, and private lessons that teach specific primitive survival skills. To register or for more information, visit www.primal-knowledge.com.

Perseid meteor shower peaks from August 11th to 13th

The Perseid meteor shower peaks between August 11 and 13, with the best observation time between midnight and sunrise. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, 2021 will be special thanks to a moonless sky. For the best observation, look at the darkest part of the night sky, and it is better to look at the entire sky than trying to look at the shower through binoculars or a telescope. Allow about 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. More information is available at www.almanac.com.