Conference '15: Knoxville Archives - Outdoor Writers Association of America

Greybeards and green ribbons: A first-timer reflects on OWAA’s conference in Knoxville, Tennessee

OWAA Developer — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 22:20:01 +0000

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BY DON KNAUS
With Knoxville, Tennessee, in my rearview mirror, my first OWAA Conference was done. Our car aimed north on I-81. As my bride and guide dozed, the Tennessee map on her lap, I had time for reflection. I’d been a member of OWAA for several years, but never attended a conference until this year. Why, I wondered, did it take so long for me to attend my first OWAA Conference? After all, I’m into my 70s — so old that I felt embarrassed to have that first-timer green ribbon on my name badge.
But I was glad I attended. Old friends like Bill Brassard with the National Shooting Sports Foundation and Terry Brady with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources spoke at the “Becoming an Outdoors Communicator” workshop. That first workshop alone was worth the price of admission. At other sessions outdoor communicators discussed ethics in the field and climate change, drones and launching your own book tour. Jonathan Jarvis, director of the National Park Service, gave an inspiring keynote address on the upcoming 100th birthday of his agency.
At Breakout Day, I shot an AR-15, a Crossman air rifle and a 50 caliber pistol. (My elbow is still sore from the recoil.) I learned about places where I could find story ideas and websites that could offer me professional help. I rode in a Porta-A-Boat and was amazed at the stability. Most importantly, I met some very fine folks, including some editors who were receptive to my story ideas.
Before I left for Knoxville, OWAA staff paired me with a conference mentor, Pat Wray. Wray reached out to me via email beforehand to introduce himself.
“Don’t expect a young stud. I am quite aged for a first-timer,” I responded. “Just look for the white hair.”
For whatever reason I didn’t get involved in professional outdoor writing groups until I retired from education. I’d dabbled in outdoor writing, publishing a few stories. I joined my state organization, the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association less than 12 years ago, but I jumped in. I hosted a 5-day conference and served on the Board of Directors. The organization elected me president at the last conference.
I suppose I am the poster boy for other outdoor communicators who discover their passion later in life. But if someone had approached me about becoming involved in the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association, or OWAA years earlier, I would have been become a much more prolific writer. Who knows? I coulda been famous like Pat Wray, someone I saw win Excellence in Craft Contests, receive the Circle of Chiefs award and I now count as a friend.
That’s my message. Contact young writers and photographers and invite them to join hands with long-time pros. Many of our outdoor sports like hunting, fishing, hiking and canoeing are tilted toward a timeworn fellowship of guys approaching geezer status. A number of states, including Pennsylvania, started mentored youth hunting and fishing programs in the hope that younger hunters and anglers, once introduced to the outdoors, will restock the sporting community. We can learn from those state early hunter/angler programs. OWAA — as well as state and regional outdoor communicators organizations — needs to reach out to young folks before they hit old age.
The description for the Becoming an Outdoors Communicator workshop in Knoxville said it all, “Invite young communicators; attend yourself; break into new fields.”
If you see someone from your state who might qualify for membership, talk to them about it. Invite them to a conference. Ask other organization members to meet the young writer, blogger or photographer. We all should be actively recruiting our replacements and then some. We, as a professional association, have something good to sell. And, as would have been the case with me some 30 years ago, it might be an easy sale
– Retired teacher, principal, coach and life-long sportsman, Don Knaus is an award-winning outdoor writer and author of several books that deal with hunting, fishing and the outdoors. He is a life-long outdoorsman and he has written about hunting and fishing for years. His book, “Of Woods and Wild Things” is a volume of short stories dealing with hunting, fishing and the outdoors.”
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A first-timers guide to conference

OWAA Developer — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 05:49:07 +0000

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BY DANIELLE TAYLOR

I have sort of a weird habit when I travel. Every time I visit a new place, I send my folks a postcard (they’re usually taking care of my dog anyway), and I also mail one to myself. It’s a fun and cheap way to preserve a little visual memory from my trip, as well as a snippet of my thoughts at the time.
Last year when I arrived in McAllen, Texas, for my first OWAA conference, I found a McAllen postcard in my hotel room. After a whirlwind few days of education sessions, networking events, dinners, product demos and one highly entertaining photo scavenger hunt critique session, I finally got around to jotting down a few lines while waiting to board my flight home. My main thought? I really missed out on most of the benefits OWAA offered me in my first few years as a passive member.
The association offers a ton of perks all year long, but the annual conference is really where it all comes together. If you’re going to conference for the first time this year, or are considering attending next year’s event, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

If you haven’t already set your travel plans, check out the pre and post conference trips tab on the OWAA Conference webpage (https://owaa.org/2015conference/pre-post-conference-trips) first. In addition to the jam-packed conference schedule, OWAA has also organized several outdoor excursions to introduce members to the greater Knoxville area and give attendees an opportunity to experience some of its outdoor attractions. You’ll likely want to arrive early or stay late to fish the South Holston River, photograph elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, bird-watch at Douglas Dam or raft the Pigeon Forge River.
Once you’re ready to book your flight and hotel, visit the travel and lodging tab on the conference website for discounted rates (https://owaa.org/2015conference/travel-lodging).
No matter how long you’ve been working in this field, don’t miss the “Becoming an Outdoors Communicator” workshop

(https://owaa.org/2015conference/agenda/boc-workshop). It’s a great introduction to some realms of outdoor communications you may not have considered tapping into, such as radio, visual art and books.

Be sure to attend the Green Ribbon Meeting, as it’s here that you’ll get a thorough introduction to the conference as well as a chance to connect with a mentor who can help guide you through the next few days. First-time attendees wear a green ribbon on their nametag throughout the conference, and this meeting also introduces you to other newbies you can buddy up with.
Be friendly and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to everyone. Just like you, others are there to meet like-minded people, make new connections and find new opportunities. You’ll likely have information to share that will help out your fellow members and they’ll have the same for you. So step out of your comfort zone and join that hotel breakfast table of folks wearing conference badges, strike up a conversation with the person sitting next to you in a craft improvement session and introduce yourself to any speakers you particularly enjoyed.
Try to attend as many hospitality suites as possible, as they’re great opportunities to network with other members and sponsors. Also, there’s no additional cost and the food is great, so why miss out?
Consider entering the photo scavenger hunt. The experience of looking for shots that fit the bill for each individual quest gives you a different perspective on conference. Even if you don’t participate, check out the comical photo critique session at the end to see the entries and pick up some photo composition tips from a few of the association’s top photographers.
Throughout the conference, stay tuned in to OWAA and the other members you meet on social media. Share photos and updates on Facebook and Twitter and connect with people you meet on LinkedIn. By tapping in to others’ feeds, you can get insight on portions of the conference you miss. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #OWAA2015 in your posts, and use it to search for others’ posts while you’re in Knoxville.
Roughly plan out which sessions you want to attend, and note some back-up options in case any of your first choices aren’t what you expected (https://owaa.org/2015conference/agenda).
If you do any freelance writing, don’t miss “Meet the Editors,” to learn about several publications specific to this field and meet several assigning editors who are interested in publishing your work.
It’s worth waking up early for Demo Day and Shooting Day, as this is your chance to test out some of the latest products for the outdoor industry. You’ll also probably leave with a hefty bag of swag, so be sure to leave room in your suitcase when you pack.
Consider attending the section meeting specific for your type of media to discuss specific challenges you’re facing and share ideas for new ways to maximize your outreach.
To learn about any major OWAA news you may have missed and vote on membership-wide decisions to help the association move forward and serve you best, definitely attend the annual membership meeting.
Bring more business cards than you think you’ll need. They don’t take up a lot of space in your luggage and you’ll need them as you make a ton of great contacts to help you with your work in this field.
Once you’re home, follow up with the connections you made to solidify those contacts and open the door to future opportunities.

My postcard collection decorates my home’s stairwell, and the one from McAllen is on eye level at the top of the steps. Every time I see it, I’m reminded to pitch an article idea to an editor I met at last year’s conference, follow up with a writer I met for an assignment, or just check in with a friend I made there. Unfortunately, I have a family conflict and can’t make it to Knoxville this year, but I can’t wait for the 2016 conference in Billings, Montana. I hope to see you there.

–Danielle Taylor is the executive editor of the National Recreation and Park Association’s Parks & Recreation magazine as well as a Leesburg, Virginia-based freelance writer focused on outdoor recreation, conservation, and travel. Follow her on Twitter @D_R_Taylor, and visit her website at www.danielle-taylor.com.
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Plan a picnic (and more) in the park: Your guide to visiting the Great Smoky Mountains

OWAA Developer — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 05:46:26 +0000

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You shouldn’t come to Knoxville, Tennessee, without a stop in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ve probably seen pictures of peaceful, rhododendronflanked rivers, eye-popping wildflower displays and scenic vistas. The idea of the Smokies is exciting, but when you actually pull out the map and try to plan a trip, it can be, well, really daunting. That’s why we’ve broken the park up into a few smaller, more manageable chunks to help you plan the trip that’s right for you.
Best All-Around (West Side of the Smokies)
If you’re looking to dip your toes into the Smoky Mountain experience, the west end of the park via Townsend, Tennessee, is the best way to do it. Because of its lower elevation and relatively flat roads and trails, this part of the park has the most year round use. In this area you’ll find Cades Cove, which is home to historic structures like the old missionary Baptist and Methodist churches and the John Oliver Cabin, all remnants from the days when the cove was home to a small community of settlers.
You’ll also find the trailhead to Abrams Falls, one of the most popular waterfall trails in the park, as well as the beautiful Rich Mountain Loop Trail. Unfortunately, the popularity and easy access of this part of the park means you’ll be navigating larger crowds and standstill traffic on Cades Cove Loop, but cyclists and pedestrians can experience the circuit more serenely by getting up a little earlier. Every Wednesday and Saturday from May until late September, the loop road is closed to motor vehicles before 10 a.m., allowing pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy the loop without the frustration and danger that comes with navigating around cars.
But don’t think this end of the park is all rolling hills and tourists. Abrams Creek has class III and IV paddling, and one of the highest points in the park, Rocky Top/ Thunderhead Mountain, is accessible from the Cades Cove campground.
The Climbs (Central Smokies)
U.S. Highway 441 follows Little Pigeon River as it traces its way through the middle of the Smokies. It is speckled with some of the steepest, most difficult and awe-inspiring climbs in the park. The Chimney Tops, LeConte, Charlies Bunion and Andrews Bald all have trailheads along this road, and visitors will also find the scenic vistas of Newfound Gap and Clingman’s Dome off the road before it snakes further southeast to the park border at Cherokee, North Carolina. If you’re looking for an exhilarating hike, beautiful views and an intense workout, this is probably the part of the park you want to be in.
The Gatlinburg Escape (North end of the Park)
Even big fans of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, can appreciate that beautiful moment on the road when the museums, restaurants and boutique shops of the city yield to trees, streams and rivers. The northern end of the park is home to several popular Smokies experiences. West of Gatlinburg along Little River Road is easy access to Laurel Falls, Metcalf Bottoms, Cucumber Gap and Jakes Creek. East of Gatlinburg you’ll find the trailhead for Ramsey Cascades and Porters Creek, the latter of which boasts arguably the best wildflower display in the park.
Underrated (Eastside)
Less frequented by Knoxvillians because of its distance from the city center, this area is perhaps most well known for Max Patch, which, while not actually within the boundaries of the park, is still worth a visit. Big Creek Campground is a great base camp for explorers looking to experience popular swimming destination Midnight Hole and fire towertopped Mt. Sterling. Daring kayakers will enjoy paddling down Big Creek, while less experienced floaters will be better off opting for a float down Pigeon River.
This is just a start. Hikers should check out the National Geographic map of the Great Smoky Mountains and “Day hikes of the Smokies” by Carson Brewer to get a full scope of what the park has to offer. Kayakers should check out Kirk Eddlemon’s new two-volume guidebook, “Whitewater of the Southern Appalachians.” Remember: No dogs are allowed on any trails in the park and permits are required for backcountry camping.
For more information on the hikes and mentioned visit https://rootsrated.com/knoxville-tn/.
—Article courtesy Roots Rated
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What you need to know for Knoxville

OWAA Developer — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 05:35:44 +0000

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Q. Anything special I should pack?

A. If you would like to participate in our Photo Scavenger Hunt, you must bring your own camera and memory card. Also bring any clips you would like to share with our editors at the Meet the Editors panel — a clip box will be available for each attending editor. And of course be sure to bring plenty of business cards for networking. Calling all runners: New for 2015 is the Roll n Run on Saturday morning. Bring your running shoes if you want to join fellow attendees for an early morning, no-fuss run.

Q. What should I wear?

A. Wear comfortable shoes and casual clothes to the welcome dinner, EIC awards party, workshops and all demo events. The Honorary Awards Dinner on Sunday night is more formal, a tie and sports jacket are recommended. While all conference sessions will be inside, the welcome dinner, Breakout Day and water demonstrations will be outside, so please pack rain gear and be prepared for the heat.

Q. Where do I go when I arrive in Knoxville?

A. The Holiday Inn World’s Fair Park is the host hotel for conference attendees. Check-in is available beginning at 3 p.m. and free parking is available for OWAA’s attendees. The conference registration desk will open at 1 p.m. on June 25. The registration desk and all conference sessions will be hosted at the Knoxville Convention Center located directly across the street from the conference hotel. If you arrive in Knoxville early in the day on Thursday, we can also provide suggestions at the registration desk for places to see or things to do in and around Knoxville.

Q. Will I need to transport myself to any conference activities?

A. No. All transportation for conference activities will be provided. We will provide driving directions at the registration desk if you would prefer to drive yourself. Please note: Supporting Group and company representatives will need to provide their own transportation for water demonstrations and Breakout Day if they need to transport materials or arrive early for setup.

Q. Are my meals included with my registration?

A. Yes. Scheduled conference meals are available beginning with breakfast on Friday and ending with dinner on Sunday. All meals are included in the conference agenda except breakfast on Saturday and Sunday which is available at the Holiday Inn World’s Fair Park, included in your room rate. Please wear your conference badge to all meal events and contact OWAA headquarters, info@owaa.org, if you have any dietary restrictions. For meals before and after conference, plenty of great restaurants are available in Knoxville: http://www.visitknoxville.com/places-to-eat. The registration desk will also have recommendations within walking distance.

Q. Can my spouse and family attend with me?

A. Absolutely! A list of things to do in Knoxville and family and guest activities are available on the conference website: https://owaa.org/2015conference/agenda/spouses-partners-families-guests/. And anyone registered for the conference is welcome to join you for all conference meals and activities.
For more information, visit: https://owaa.org/2015conference/faq/.
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Biology, ecology and research: there's plenty of stories waiting in Knoxville

OWAA Developer — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 05:50:09 +0000

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When you explore the outdoors of eastern Tennessee, you will experience adventures in more ways than one. While biking, hiking, paddling, fishing or just wandering, you will see the incredible diversity of views, topography and ecology. You may even stumble upon any one of a variety of ongoing research or environmental projects in the region, and with it, a story idea.
The Tennessee River, formed by the confluence of the Holston and French Broad rivers, is the largest tributary of the Ohio River and flows through the center of Knoxville. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are seen frequently on the river, but more is going on underneath the surface. Conservation Fisheries is a Knoxville non-profit dedicated to preserving the aquatic biodiversity in our streams and rivers. The organization is the first facility in the Southeast to restore rare fish populations that have been eliminated because of pollution or habitat destruction. It has also developed unique, non-invasive techniques to monitor rare fish in many southeastern states.
The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, one of only 28 accredited veterinary colleges in the country, recently opened the Equine Performance and Rehabilitation Center under the direction of an equine surgery specialist who is also board-certified in veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation. The location of this facility in Knoxville is fitting, as Tennessee has the second highest equine population in the United States. The UT Veterinary College also serves as the primary care facility for many organizations including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency, the National Eagle Foundation, and Appalachian Bear Rescue, and has one of the highest caseloads of avian and exotic animals. The University’s One Health program is a major initiative to coordinate human, animal and environmental caretakers to improve overall health.
Tennessee is home to some of the most diverse forests and habitats (the state can claim more species of trees than all of Europe) so it is no wonder that research related to biodiversity is increasing. Unfortunately, along with the high biodiversity, Tennessee leads all other inland states with the number of threatened plant and animal species. In order to preserve this biodiversity for future generations, we need to document the variety of those in existence is crucial. The University of Tennessee is also collaborating to record the biodiversity within Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness with a focus on reforestation and regeneration of habitats.
Along with UT’s research, Discover Life in America is a local non-profit organization behind the ABTI — All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory — a joint effort with the National Park Service to record every single species within Great Smoky Mountains National
Park and beyond. The first effort of its kind, ATBI has many global organizations following its example. DLIA brings in top researchers and presents public educational programs as well as conducting the research.
Other projects within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park include the reintroduction of elk after their 200-year absence. The elk project is now working to finalize an environmental management plan and create strategies for monitoring possible future impacts to the elk and the park resources. Probably better known is the Synchronous firefly, one of at least 19 species found in the park and are the only species in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns. Visitors continue to flock to the park to see the unique display, and researchers continue to explore the science associated with the phenomenon.
For more information on any of these projects, please contact the respective representatives.
Legacy Parks Foundation: Carol Evans, Executive Director, cevans@legacyparks.org
Conservation Fisheries, Inc.: Patrick Rakes, Co-Director, xenisma@gmail.com
UT College of Veterinary Medicine: Sandra Harbison, sharbiso@utk.edu
UT Landscape Architecture: Gale Fulton, gfulton@utk.edu
Discover Life in America: Todd Witcher, Executive Director, todd@dlia.org
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm.
– Visit Knoxville
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Moneymakers and news-creators: we’ve got a conference lineup you won’t want to miss

OWAA Developer — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 19:16:03 +0000

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This year’s conference is jam-packed with sessions on craft improvement,the business of outdoor communication and panels on timely outdoor topics. We’ve even added some built-in exercise time for our OWAA runners.Here’s some highlights of the schedule so far. For the full agenda and up-to-date information visit the conference website
at owaa.org/2015conference/.
Friday, June 26
Newsmaker: Partnering for the
greater sage grouse 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Why is the sage grouse so important and what is being done to protect the iconic landscape it calls home? An unlikely collection of stakeholders have been working together to conserve the birds’ habitat across the West. At the same time the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service faces a Sept. 30 deadline to decide whether the sage grouse should be added to the endangered species list.
Smart Technology and Apps for the
Working Journalist 1:45 – 2:45 p.m.
Speaker: Earl Nottingham
The convergence of digital technologies has fostered numerous “smart” devices and apps that have become a two-edge sword for the outdoor communicator. While they can be extremely productive tools for the working journalist, their ease of use, quality and availability now open up a competitive era of “citizen” and “backpack” journalism.
100th Anniversary of the National Parks 1:45 – 2:45 p.m.
Speakers: National Park Service, National Park Foundation
The centennial of the National Park System will be celebrated across the country throughout 2016. Hear from the National Park Service and its partners about the most exciting stories and events as you plan coverage of this historic milestone.
Water Demo Day 3 – 6 p.m.
Water demo day starts with fishing from 3 – 4:30 p.m. at Fishing at World’s Fair Park. Step out the back door of the convention center to join our fishing and watersport manufacturers for product demos and new product displays. Test a rod for your next gear review or learn new techniques to share with your readers. From there head the Outdoorr Knoxville Adventure Center to dip your toes in the water or paddle around in a kayak from our watercraft manufacturers on the Tennessee River. See the newest outdoor gear and learn about the latest trends for getting people out on the water. The watercrafts demo runs from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Saturday June 27
Roll n Run 6 a.m.
All attendees are invited to run Saturday morning with other fleet-footed conference attendees rather than run solo in a new city. This is a no-fuss out and back run that will start and finish in the hotel lobby. Run a 5k or a 10k depending on how you feel at 6 a.m.
Natural History Walk 7 – 8 a.m.
Host: Rich Patterson, Ijams Nature Center
Join professional naturalist and former OWAA president Rich Patterson as well as a local expert from Ijams Nature Center on a one-hour non-strenuous walk to observe and learn about local flora and fauna. Many plants found in Knoxville have fascinating histories. Spread by people because of their ornamental, food or medicinal value, certain weeds have also developed a strong following. They’re also extremely adaptable. Expand your knowledge of plan life locally and abroad on this morning excursion.
Breakout Day 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
John Sevier Shooting Center
Co-sponsored by Nissan North America
Learn about and test the latest firearms and outdoor gear from OWAA supporters and local companies. Visit with outdoor destination representatives, take a test drive or brush up on breaking news from our outdoor organizations.
Newsmaker: Gulf of Mexico Restoration 2 – 3 p.m.
Five years ago America’s largest ecological disaster unfolded in the Gulf of Mexico as BP’s Macondo well spewed an estimated 4.9 million barrels of oil into one of the world’s richest fisheries. The Deepwater Horizon spill came just five years after Hurricane Katrina barreled through the Gulf, inundating coastal cities and towns, killing more than 1,800 and profoundly illustrating the impacts of coastal wetland loss, especially in the Mississippi River Delta. The ecological disaster of the oil spill and the fines BP and others have been forced to pay give federal, state and local officials the opportunity to repair the ecological disaster of coastal habitat loss across the Gulf. Our speakers will give an update of restoration progress, priorities for the conservation community and how long fines and penalties will be litigated.
Ethics and Expectations: Comps, Demos, FAMs 2 – 3 p.m.
Speakers: Kelsey Dayton, Louis Dzierzak, Chris Hunt
Whether working on a gear review, writing about your favorite outdoor destinations or covering a news story, the cost to do the research is always a factor. Who pays for what and how does that impact the article? Understand how norms and expectations can vary across outlets and markets when it comes to comped activities, demo gear or familiarization tours.
Ethics in Wildlife Photography 3:15 – 4:30 p.m.
Speakers: Michael Furtman, Chris Madson, Paul Queneau
There are numerous ways to capture wildlife photography, but when it comes to things like baiting animals to get the perfect shot, do the ends justify the means? And what responsibility do photographers and editors have to inform their viewers about how a shot was obtained or whether a subject was captive or wild?
Newsmaker: Climate Change – The science, the politics and
the future 3:15 – 4:30 p.m.
Speakers: Hal Herring, Field & Stream; Todd Tanner, Conservation
Hawks; Cameron Wake, University of New Hampshire; Senator
Sheldon Whitehouse.
Sunday June 28
Access for journalists on federal public lands 8 – 9:30 a.m.
Speakers: Representatives USFWS, USFS, NPS, others TBD
OWAA maintains that journalists should not have to apply for permits from their government to do their jobs and has opposed efforts to require them. Balancing access with the need for stewardship of our public lands presents significant challenges for both journalists and the land managers. This panel, made up of representatives from the federal land management agencies, will explore the issues surrounding the requirement for permits for filming and photography on the federal public lands they manage and provide insights into ways to address these challenges.
The Cloud: Tools for Your Business 8:50 – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker: Paul Queneau
Cloud computing tools can make your life easier in any number of ways, but wading through the vast number of offerings and knowing how to evaluate similar options can be a job in and of itself. Learn not only the benefits of using the Cloud, but what other outdoor communicators are using and how to pick the right tools to meet your needs.
ATV Use on Public Lands 9:40 – 11:10 a.m.
Speakers: Tim Brass, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers; Bob Richards,
Tennessee Greenways and Trails Coordinator; Duane Taylor, Specialty Vehicle
Institute of America
Join us for a lively panel discussion of Off-Highway Vehicle use on public lands, one of the most contentious outdoor issues facing us today. Panelists will include an OHV industry representative, a land conservation advocate and a public lands manager. A wide-open Q&A session will follow short presentations by each panelist.
Pricing your freelance services 9:40 – 11:10 a.m.
Associations like OWAA are prohibited by antitrust laws from prescribing or recommending pricing for the services and products of their members. We are permitted to educate our members. Following an introduction by OWAA’s Legal Counsel, panelists will provide information about how some successful freelancers handle pricing their work and factors to consider when pricing your own services such as experience, market trends, type of client and more.
Drones and the Outdoors 11:20 a.m. – Noon
From hunting to photography and video, drones could have a profound impact for outdoor enthusiasts and outdoor communicators, but is this emerging technology a useful tool or an invasion of privacy and a disruption to the outdoor experience? Join our team of panelists as they examine the pros and cons of this technology as it becomes increasing available to the general public.
Sale of Public Lands 1:15 – 2:45 p.m.
“This land is your land, this land is my land”
Western legislators are driving attempts for states to place federal lands under state control. Some think a public land transfer is a good idea, while others fear it will result in land sales, loss of access and habitat degradation.
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Find your focus: New All Comers Division added to photo scavenger hunt

OWAA Developer — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 19:08:59 +0000

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BY JIM LOW

I have been attending OWAA conferences since 1987, and I’ve seen a lot of valuable and entertaining sessions in that time. The one conference feature that never disappoints or fails to teach me something useful is the photo scavenger hunt contest.
For the first few years, the contest was a spectator sport for me. As a writer first and a photographer second, I was daunted by the very thought of pitting my photographic skills against those of legendary outdoor shooters like Tom Ulrich, Mike Furtman and Tim Christie. But I kept coming back to see how the contestants met the individual photo challenges and to enjoy the sometimes hilarious, always instructive, critiques. I also thrilled to see flashes of brilliance from talented amateurs and secondary photographers like me who won particular categories and occasionally even placed in the top three. I also noticed in those early years that even the top names sometimes had trouble creatively fulfilling each of the contest’s five assignments.
When I finally took the plunge and entered, my entries came in for their share of good-natured (and thankfully anonymous) ribbing from judges during the critique. But I also got the reward of some positive feedback. Finally, one year I even placed in the top three – a career highlight for a writer who once nursed dreams of shooting for National Geographic. If, on my best and luckiest day, I could beat out some of the nation’s best photo pros, maybe I could have been a contender after all.
The thrill of the chase is reason enough to take part in the photo scavenger hunt. The opportunity to get feedback on your work from skilled pros is another. And if you need more motivation, consider the possibility of cash or other prizes should you place among the judges’ top picks.
This year there is an easier and less intimidating way to get in on the action. We are adding a new All Comers Division to encourage participation by those who either lack the confidence to compete against the pros, or simply don’t want to invest the time needed to meet the requirements of the main event. Those who sign up for this division will be asked to complete one photo and one short video that capture the essence of the Knoxville OWAA conference. The winner will receive a cash prize.
I am still undecided which division I’ll enter, or if I’ll enter both. It’s tempting to go for the prestige of placing in the main event, but the more relaxed pace of the new contest has its own appeal. If you want to join the fun, watch for a note from headquarters about contest assignment topics and early registration online. This year’s contest is going to be twice as much fun as previous ones and is sure to be a conference highlight. And take it from me, it’s much more fun when you have skin in the game.
– Jim Low’s career included work as a newspaper reporter, magazine editor and public informatin officer for the Missouri Department of Conservation. His freelance credits include Outdoor Life, Sports Afield, Game & Fish Publications, Arkansas Wildlife, Rifle and Shotgun, Popular Lures, Birder’s World, Australian Birding and The Daily Australian. He is also a lifetime OWAA member.
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Get your camera ready

OWAA Developer — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 04:22:12 +0000

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a photographer’s dream

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BY ANN and ROB SIMPSON

Photography stops in and near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Known worldwide for its incredible diversity of plants and animals, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a nature lover’s — and photographer’s — dream world.
In 1976, the park, which spans more than 800 square miles in the southern Appalachian Mountains, was designated an International Biosphere Reserve — an honor only given to the world’s most important biological areas.
Undisturbed by glaciers that scoured the northern states, the Smokies have been a refuge for species many of which are found nowhere else in the world. More than 12,000 species of plants and animals have been documented within the park boundaries. About 100 species of native trees and 1,500 flowering plant species grow here. About 200 species of birds, 66 species of mammals, 67 native fish, 39 reptiles and 43 amphibians call the park home.
Elk, reintroduced to the park in 2001, thrive in Cataloochee Valley near the sleepy song-filled town of Maggie Valley. Black bears claim a population density of about two per square mile.
And at least 30 different species of salamanders can be found here making the Smokies the “Salamander Capital of the World” with the most diverse population of salamanders anywhere.
Cades Cove is one of the best places to view wildlife in the park. Drive the 11-mile loop road watching for turkey, deer and black bear. You can stop and see historic pioneer cabins, barns, and churches as well as great displays of southern Appalachian wildflowers including 10 species of trillium and many other flowering beauties.
Only about an hour’s drive from Knoxville, Tennessee, the tourist-filled town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the closest entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Fill up with gasoline and stock up on picnic items here, as there are no gas stations and limited food and beverage options in the park.
Plan on arriving the weekend before the OWAA Knoxville conference so you can join in the festivities at the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival and marvel at the pink sea of Catawba rhododendrons in the State Park.
Wherever and whenever you go, just don’t forget your camera.
—Ann and Rob Simpson have written many books and articles on national parks coast to coast that promote wise and proper use of natural habitats and environmental stewardship. Longtime national park advocates, their recent work has been centered on providing informative and colorful nature guides on the wildlife and wildflowers of the major parks including Shenandoah, Blue Ridge Parkway, Rocky Mountain, Yosemite and Yellowstone National Parks. You can contact them at annrobsimpson@snphotos.com.
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Hit the Tennessee trails

OWAA Developer — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 04:11:02 +0000

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BY JENNIFER PHARR DAVIS
When it comes to hiking around Knoxville, Tennessee, Johnny Molloy wrote the book. Actually, he’s written three of them: “Five Star Trails: Knoxville,” “50 Hikes on Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau,” and “Top Trails: Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”
And that may seem a bit paltry compared to the whopping 56 total outdoor guidebooks he’s penned through the years. Still, East Tennessee is his home, the University of Tennessee is his school (Go Vols!), and the Smoky Mountains and Cumberland Plateau are his playground. There’s no better authority for hiking near Knoxville than Molloy. I caught up with him to talk trails in the area and what hiking enthusiasts headed to OWAA’s 2015 conference should know. Here’s what he said:
JPD: What makes hiking in this area special?
JM: Geographically speaking, Knoxville couldn’t be better situated for offering a variety of terrain and trails on which to trek. Centered at the bottom of the Tennessee River Valley, Knoxville is flanked to the east by the crest of the Southern Appalachians and to the west by the Cumberland Plateau. The Great Smoky Mountains rise within sight of Knoxville.
Most of the trailheads on the Tennessee side of the Smokies are within an hour’s drive of Knoxville, so it is only natural that area residents flock to this national park. The Smokies set the stage for hikers and are the seed for developing a hiking community in the heart of East Tennessee, but there are many more places for a trail treader to trod than that magnificent park.
The Cumberland Plateau rises to the west of the Tennessee Valley. The Plateau, as it is known in these parts, offers distinctly different terrain with correspondingly different hiking experiences. Here you have water carved gorges slicing through this elevated table of land, exposing rock walls, creating rock houses, sheer bluffs and other geological features that complement the green expanse of the Smokies.
And then there is the ridge and valley country north of town, a sort of blending of the Plateau and the high ranges to the east. Here you have places like Norris Dam State Park, where narrow hollows are flanked by tightly packed ridges (imagine a rumpled carpet), never particularly high, but nonetheless creating an attractive landscape over which to walk.
The Tennessee River Valley is no flatland itself. Knoxville is a hilly town. And with citizens interested in hiking it is only natural that trails and greenways aplenty have been created in the greater metropolitan area that make going out on a walk even more convenient. Trekking in the Tennessee Valley adds one more spice to the entrée of offerings in addition to the Smokies and the Cumberland Plateau.
JPD: How would you describe the scenery people will see on the trails?
JM: Hiking in Knoxville can mean a ramble through the wilds of the Great Smokies, a trip to a geological formation on the Cumberland Plateau, a walk in the deep dark hollows of the ridge and valley country or a quick escape on a greenway near town.
To our south we have the largest tract of wilderness in the eastern United States — the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Over 900 miles of trails lace this crown jewel of the Southern Appalachians. You will learn to love the trails in the vast mountain lands that lie within the sublime and primitive Cherokee National Forest, much within an easy drive of Knoxville.
The geologically fascinating Cumberland Plateau rises to the west — hike your way past rushing rivers, deep gorges, wild waterfalls and other rock features. Hikes stretch in all directions, from the rugged splendor of Frozen Head rising to our west, to the lakeside Big Ridge State Park lying north, to view-laden Panther Creek State Park in the east, to historic Fort Loudon State Park in the south.
JPD: OWAA is coming at the end of June. What type of clothing should people plan to bring to be prepared?
JM: It depends on where you are headed. Up high, expect highs in the low 70s, and cool evenings and mornings. In Knoxville, highs will reach the low to mid 80s. Trails on the Cumberland Plateau will be somewhere in between. Thunderstorms could pop up in the afternoons. I suggest shorts, short sleeve shirt, low-top hiking shoes and a jacket for storms or cool conditions in the high country.
JPD: What do people need to know, or think about, when planning a hike in the area?
JM: Realize with nearly 5,000 feet of elevation variety, conditions will be different depending upon where you go. Also, expect traffic on weekends in the Smokies. I suggest going to the Smokies during the week and other regions on the weekend.
—Jennifer Pharr Davis has logged over 12,000 miles of long-distance hiking on six different continents, and she was named a 2012 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year. She is the owner of Blue Ridge Hiking Company (www.blueridgehikingco.com) and the author of five books, including her newest title “Called Again.” She lives in Asheville, North Carolina, with her husband Brew and their daughter Charley

Five must-hit hikes near Knoxville

Fort Loudoun State Historic Area

Make a 3.4-mile loop on a water-encircled peninsula at this site of an 18th century English fort located less than hour from Knoxville. First, travel hilly woods overlooking Tellico Lake. The trail then winds through open meadows before returning waterside. A climb leads to rewarding overlooks of the Southern Appalachians. After your hike, incorporate a visit to the park museum and fort.

Frozen Head State Park: Emory Gap Falls and DeBord Falls

This 2.8 mile out-and-back hike in mountainous Frozen Head State Park located about an hour from Knoxville, leads to two named cascades as it explores a rugged valley carved from the highest terrain on the entire Cumberland Plateau. The hiking is easier than you may guess as it follows an old roadbed most of its distance. Traveling along North Prong Flat Fork stream, the hike enters a wildflower-laden valley to reach DeBord Falls, which is complemented with a shaded pool. The ascent sharpens upon joining Emory Gap trail where Emory Gap Falls drops over a stone lip framed by a rockhouse.

Cumberland Trail above LaFollette

This is one spectacular hike. Follow the Cumberland Trail as it leaves the town of LaFollette, located about 40 miles north of Knoxville, then climbs the slope of Cumberland Mountain. You will join a knife-edge ridge with protruding spine-like outcrops that offer expansive vistas. Peer upon LaFollette below and southward to the Smoky Mountains and west into the wild Cumberland Plateau, culminating in the Powell Valley Overlook. Beyond this vista, come to a backcountry trail shelter, high elevation stream and Window Rock, a stone wall with porthole in it. It is 5.6 miles there and back.

Smoky Mountains: Baskins Creek Loop and Spur to Baskins Falls

This 6-mile loop, very near Gatlinburg about an hour from Knoxville, travels through surprisingly hilly terrain and winds amid multiple ecotones to reach Baskins Falls. The route returns via Trillium Gap Trail. Auto accessible pioneer homesteads are passed en route to the trailhead.

Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville

Use a series of trails to make a pair of loops totaling 3 miles. Leave the worth-a-visit visitor center and raptor enclosure, bisecting wooded hills to reach Mead’s Quarry. Circle around the lake leftover after marble mining operations ceased. The circuit makes a big climb above the quarry, reaching a pair of overlooks. Head to the Tennessee River. See Maude Moore’s Cave; pass by a wildflower rich hillside near Otter Island, then climb back to the nature center.
– Information provided by Johnny Molloy
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Photo scavenger hunt revitalized

OWAA Developer — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 04:04:15 +0000

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BY PAT WRAY
Back in the 1980s and 90s many of the world’s best outdoor photographers took part in OWAA’s Photo Scavenger Hunt Contest during the annual conference. The results were spectacular. Attendees lined up early at registration to sign up and received a list of subjects they had to capture at conference, each in a single photo, to be shown at a public session accompanied by judges’ commentary. The slide show of submissions was among the mostly anticipated and attended activities at conference.
We used color slide film at the time and entrants captured 10 instead of the current five subjects. The first 10 shots on your roll comprised your submission, and with only one attempt at each assignment it was a high pressure environment. No do-overs meant there were some remarkable failures, but the majority of photographs were excellent and the competition was keen.
Judging the contest was both an honor and a burden. At our 1985 conference in Phoenix, the late Ed Park and I stayed up all night judging entrants and made the presentation without sleeping at all.
In the early days the more pedestrian photographers among us could not hope to place high enough to win prizes that included gear, sometimes worth thousands of dollars. Still, we entered every year just to learn at the feet of the masters. Not only was it educational seeing the professionals’ work, but hearing the judges’ commentary was like listening to an advanced photography course. With their assistance some of us began to improve enough to occasionally place in the top tier. Not me. Still languishing among the bottom-dwellers, I shifted my focus, if you will, to taking crazy pictures that would make people laugh.
It’s fun setting up weird photos, especially when your models include made-for-the-camera hams like Bill Monroe, Chris Hunt and Mark Freeman, but I have to tell you, it’s no way to win prizes.
The Photo Scavenger Hunt Contest has fallen on hard times in recent years. Participation dwindled, prizes shrank and fewer people watched the presentation. But this year in Knoxville, Tennessee, we are revitalizing the contest. Many of OWAA’s best photographers are taking part, guaranteeing a presentation of entries worth seeing. Simplified assignments mean participants won’t need to dedicate as much time to finding subjects and they won’t need a car to compete. You’ll be able to check at least one subject off the list at the combined Shooting and Demo Day.
The presentation of photos, along with the judge’s comments, won’t compete with any other conference sessions. So make sure to sign up when you fill out your early registration form for conference. There’s a limited number of spaces and this year we know those spots will go fast.
We’re also adding a new, and separate, all-comers contest challenging participants to capture the essence of the conference in a single photo or 15-second video. Those entries will be shared with members before the final banquet.
Photographers of all abilities are encouraged to compete in this contest and the scavenger hunt. Those who never wield a camera should still attend the presentations. While creativity is encouraged, the basic photographic tenets of composition, lighting and focus are paramount. It’s a free lesson in advanced photographic techniques with the added benefit of prizes.
—Pat Wray is a former Marine helicopter pilot, an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife information supervisor and for 20 years, a full-time freelance writer and photographer. He’s been an OWAA member for 30 years and served on the board twice and on all but one OWAA committee.
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