KHC 093 - The Stevens Brothers: San Carlos Apache Reservation
Sep 16, 2024
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Join Homer, Mark, and Tim Stevens, brothers from the San Carlos Apache Reservation and passionate elk hunters, as they share their deep love for the sport. They discuss the unique elk population management on the reservation, the art of hunting with archery, and the importance of community traditions. Tim reveals his incredible experience with a 430 elk and they dive into the patience required for trophy hunting. Listeners will appreciate their insights on sharing the hunt and the emotional connections built through their experiences.
The San Carlos Apache Reservation successfully rebounded its elk population through strict hunting regulations and strategic habitat improvements since the late 1980s.
Elk hunting on the reservation is deeply ingrained in family and community traditions, fostering emotional bonds and shared experiences among generations.
The Stevens brothers emphasize ethical hunting practices and mentorship for the next generation to ensure sustainable elk management and a thriving ecosystem.
Deep dives
The Significance of Management on Elk Population
The successful management of the elk population on the San Carlos Apache Reservation began in the late 1980s when over-the-counter hunting was significantly limited. By prohibiting hunts for non-members and highly regulating hunting for tribal members, the elk were given the opportunity to mature and grow larger. This strategic move, combined with targeted management practices spearheaded by biologists, allowed the elk population to rebound dramatically. The end result has been a sustainable environment where large trophy bulls thrive.
Impact of Habitat and Predator Control
Key habitat improvements were implemented to enhance the elk’s living conditions, such as acquiring and fencing 25,000 acres to protect vegetation from cattle overgrazing. This allowed the elk calves to safely thrive without as much predation from bears and coyotes. The establishment of a predator management program further ensured a balanced ecosystem by controlling the local predator populations. By maintaining this balance, both the health of the elk herd and the growth of mature bulls significantly improved.
The Role of Community and Family in Elk Hunting Culture
The hunting culture surrounding elk is deeply rooted in family and community values, where generations pass down the passion and skills necessary for successful hunting. The local community invests significant effort into creating a supportive environment for hunting enthusiasts, encouraging newcomers to share in the experience. The emotional connections formed during the hunts and the shared joy of bringing family members into the fold are core to the tradition of elk hunting. This sense of collective responsibility enhances the community's bond with nature and wildlife.
The Unique Elk Hunting Experience
The hunting experience on the reservation is characterized by a commitment to fair chase and ethical practices, promoting a genuine connection between humans and wildlife. The hunters often face rugged and challenging terrain, making the pursuit of large bulls even more rewarding. The emphasis is placed not only on harvesting mature bulls but also enjoying the journey and camaraderie shared in the field. By cultivating a respectful and engaged culture, the guides ensure that the excitement of elk hunting is felt by all participants.
Future Goals and Legacy of the Stevens Brothers
The Stevens brothers maintain a strong commitment to preserving their hunting legacy while also preparing the next generation to take on roles in elk management and guiding. They envision passing their extensive knowledge and experience onto younger family members and taking an active role in mentoring aspiring hunters. Their collective goal is to ensure that the traditions of responsible hunting and wildlife stewardship continue for years to come. The focus remains on sustained growth of the elk population and the overall health of the ecosystem, ensuring future generations can enjoy the same rewarding experiences.
Join us for a discussion with Cam and the Stevens brothers (Homer, Mark and Tim) of the San Carlos Apache Reservation for a conversation about Elk hunting in Arizona.