Hosting Wisconsin Fur Trappers State Rendezvous
Since its inception in 1963, the Wisconsin Trappers Association (WTA) has been dedicated to preserving the future of the state’s trapping heritage. In September, the WTA will again return to Marshfield for their 53rd Annual Wisconsin Fur Trappers State Rendezvous.
“Marshfield is a great location in the center of the state,” said Pam Mather, longtime WTA member and Convention Coordinator. “The staff at the Convention Bureau and Central State Fairgrounds are wonderful to work with and we appreciate the hospitality shown us by the community.”
Featuring the best in trapping and hunting vendors and educational seminars for the outdoor enthusiast, the Rendezvous will host vendors, trapping demonstrations, and an opportunity to socialize with other enthusiasts.
“It is the modern day equivalent of when solitary trappers came down out of the hills and gathered once a year to stock up on supplies and to socialize,” said Mather. “It also is a way to keep up on the latest techniques, as well as help educate new trappers and the public on why we trap and how we do it humanely.”
More than 100 vendors will be inside the buildings, with another 80 tailgaters outside selling a variety of goods.
“There are many hunting, trapping, wildlife related supplies, but our vendors also sell decorative items, jewelry, honey, maple syrup and other things,” said Mather. “We also have some good food available on the grounds.”
For those new to the trapping world, there are trapping demonstrations throughout the day, and events such as the tomahawk throw and an indoor human foosball rink, and a plethora of literature available with many people willing to talk about what they love to do and why they do it.
Members of WTA work to protect Wisconsin’s trapping heritage, educate the public about the benefits of responsible and regulated trapping activities, maintain a conservation ethic and participate in wildlife and habitat management programs, and provide a comprehensive trapping education program.
The WTA works in cooperation with the DNR to provide mandatory Trapper Education classes, and are also at workshops where members show new wardens from WI and around the country the methods and equipment used in trapping.
“WTA has information booths at many events around the state,” said Mather. “WTA provides a list of trappers who do Nuisance Animal Removal on its website. The WTA also provides two scholarships for college students interested in the biology/wildlife fields.”
Learn more at the WTA Rendezvous September 9-11, 2016 at Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Admission is $10 (good for both days), and kids 10 and under enter for free.
UPDATE: 2017 event scheduled for September 8-9 at Central Wisconsin State Fair.
