Wisconsin Mixed Bag: Trick shot archer Byron Ferguson dies at age 71

Hartsell, Ala. — Legendary archer and author Byron Ferguson, 71, of Alabama passed away Oct. 3.

Ferguson, the author of Become the Arrow, was an internationally renowned longbow archer who became famous for his trick shots. His obituary said he once shot eight dimes in a row out of the air. The most difficult shot his career came while performing on the television show Super People in Tokyo when he shot an arrow through a diamond ring.  Ferguson appeared on American Shooter on TNN, ESPN, ESPN2, and OLN for 10 years where his “shot of the week“ was the most watched portion of the show. He also appeared on the program Shooting USA on The Outdoors Channel, as well as Impossible Shots.

DNR Asking Public to Report Bear Den Sites

Madison — The DNR is asking the public to report any black bear den locations to help with an ongoing study on black bear reproduction that will generate new estimates of black bear reproductive rates within each of the state’s bear zones. These estimates will improve the accuracy of the population models. Researchers are also investigating any connection between consumption of human food and bear reproduction, since diet can affect cub survival rates and litter sizes.

The study will be entering its fifth year of surveying dens. The research team will accept a den report anywhere in the state. However, the team is particularly interested in finding dens in zones C, E, and F, which cover central and southern Wisconsin.

Anyone who happens upon a bear den is encouraged to report as much information as possible without approaching or disturbing the animal. Collect GPS coordinates if possible using a mobile phone’s map app, such as Google Maps or Apple Maps. Information on reporting dens sites is posted on the DNR website.

MORE COVERAGE FROM WISCONSIN OUTDOOR NEWS:

Wisconsin’s Sheboygan County poaching case settles: $25K fine on 83 civil charges

Researcher examines origins of blufflands bobcats

Wisconsin bear hunters have season on par with prior years

DATCP Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Grant Program Application Open Though Jan. 16

Madison — Wisconsin farmers may apply for commercial Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program (NOPP) research grants through Jan. 16, 2026, with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). These grants aim to refine new methods that optimize commercial nitrogen applied to fields. A total of $1 million is available.

Applicants must be an agricultural producer or be working with one or more producers, agree to collaborate with the University of Wisconsin on their project, and conduct commercial nitrogen optimization field studies for a minimum of two years. Applicants must qualify for the grant by Dec. 19, then submit the final application by Jan. 16. Information is on the DATCP website.

DNR Opens Online ‘Merch’ Store

Madison — The DNR now has an online merchandise store, offering a variety of items celebrating the state’s fish, wildlife, plants, public lands and recreation traditions. Proceeds directly support conservation and environmental education and outreach initiatives across Wisconsin. Proceeds from Smokey Bear merchandise support the National Fire Prevention Program.

“Everyone in the state interacts with the environment in some way. We’re excited to offer this new opportunity for all Wisconsinites to participate in supporting the mission of the DNR,” DNR Secretary Karen Hyun said. “We hope that by offering these items for sale via ecommerce, more and more people will engage with the DNR and learn about our efforts to keep our air and water clean, parks and other public lands beautiful and pristine, and our fish and wildlife populations robust and healthy.”

The merchandise line includes: muskie T-shirt, Hunt Wisconsin beanie, Hunt Wisconsin T-shirt, Smokey Bear T-shirt;  Smokey Bear mug; Flora & Fauna of Wisconsin mug; Flora & Fauna of Wisconsin T-shirt; Wisconsin Loon & Trees T-shirt; 2025 Wisconsin State Park System commemorative ornament; Wisconsin State Park poster and much more.

All merchandise is available online and shipped within two to five business days of ordering.

NWTF 50th Convention set for Feb. 12-14

Nashville, Tenn. — The National Wild Turkey Federation’s 50th convention and sport show will take place Feb. 12-14, 2026, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. Convention information is posted on the NWTF website.