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Outfitter stresses preservation of land, wildlife
Theresa Seraphim
for Spotlight
Contrary to what some people think, hunters are not indiscriminate in their pursuits and do not destroy wildlife or land.
In fact, says Gene Plihal, while some do indeed disrespect their environment, hunters know they have the most to lose if they treat the wilderness in such a manner.
“Anyone who makes a living at it long term has to make sure it survives,” said Plihal, owner of Plihal’s Frank Lake Guiding and Outfitting near Donnelly.
The 63-year-old has farmed since the age of 14, an experience which has shown him the importance of preservation.
“I’ve seen all the evidence I need to realize that there is a distinct advantage to keeping water, wetlands, trees and wildlife on farmland,” said Plihal.
He has been in business for 33 years and now has 57 big game allocations for moose, bear, mule deer and migratory fowl.
Plihal and his daughter Emily guide between 50 and 150 clients per year, 95 per cent of whom come from the United States.
Most of them are over the age of 50 and have the money for an outfitting experience, although, said Plihal, business was down drastically in 2009 because of the American recession.r an outfitting experience, although, said Plihal, ts.erving wildlife.
“It’s the lifestyle, and the unexpected encounters with wildlife,” he said in explaining why he enjoys outfitting, which brings $60,000,000 annually into the economy.
“You have to love nature to be in it,” he noted.
Over the years, Plihal has seen lynx, marten, fisher, and wolverines, among other animals.
“You realize the infinite beauty of each creature and its contribution to the ecosystem,” he said.
When hunting, it’s important to take only what’s needed, and to be grateful for it.
“When you take an animal, you have to know what you’re doing and the significance of the kill,” said Plihal.
Clearing land will drive away animals, which would be disastrous for the natural balance, he said.
“The critical thing is habitat. If you don’t have frogs, and you don’t have canaries, you won’t have people – it’s as simple as that.”
In 2001, Plihal led the fight to restore Lac Magloire when drought and drainage led to its disappearance for two years.
He has also invested in hundreds of acres of natural land for the sake of preserving wildlife. Indeed, some of his land is off limits to shooting, including by his clients.
“On my home quarter, for example, I do not even allow target shooting,” said Plihal.
He also praises the Alberta Conservation Association for buying land and tying it up in perpetuity to ensure it’s there for future generations.
Plihal said the movie Avatar conveys the whole conservation issue very well, particularly when one of the Pandora people tells the Earthlings that have invaded the planet, “Go back to your own brown planet.”
“That was powerful, because our planet is brown,” said Plihal.
“(The film) has a strong message about conservation.”
Plihal stressed the preservation of which he speaks, is vital for the survival of all on this planet.
“If not already, land, wood and water will be the key to survival in the near future, not only for wildlife but for mankind as well.”
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Gene Plihal, owner of Plihal’s Frank Lake Guiding and Hunting, stresses the importance of preserving birds and other forms of wildlife, and keeping land in its natural state.
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Lyw Magnuson and Brian Kreie of North Dakota celebrate the harvest, done with Plihal Outfitting, of a bull moose during a rut.
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Vicki Cianciarulo of Chicago poses with the bear she harvested in Alberta. Cianciarulo is one of many women now getting into hunting.
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A group of outfitters enjoys a meal at the Plihal Outfitting lodge, located 10 miles north of Donnelly. Clients are given three meals a day.
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