Trap gophers to earn money

Rick Moser, Calvin Hickey, and Grace Sharp are checking out a gopher trap at the March 21 annual Gopher Seminar, where over 40 community members learned techniques from local trappers, Zach Davis, Tony Hickey, and Max Miller. The seminar was held at Bob Shirts’ farm on Mann Creek Road. Shirts, Troy Mock and Curtis Hickey are Rodent District board members. This year’s bounty for gophers trapped within the district’s boundaries is $1.50 per tail, and claims are paid twice a month. Landowner and trapper affidavits are required when the tails are turned in. Washington County Weed Supervisor Bonnie Davis said the unusually warm weather kept gophers active all winter. Tails are received at the Weed Department office, and the best time to turn them in is Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.