16,500 PHEASANTS SET ASIDE FOR YOUTH PHEASANT HUNT
Hunting clubs interested in hosting a youth pheasant hunt this fall are encouraged to begin making plans now, according to Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe.
The Game Commission will release 15,000 ring-necked pheasants statewide prior to the opening of this special youth season, which was developed to provide young Pennsylvanians more opportunities to be successful afield. To encourage more hunting clubs to get involved, Roe has pledged to provide an extra 1,500 birds for clubs that host a youth pheasant hunt.
"The future of hunting is directly related to the continuing participation of young Pennsylvanians," Roe noted. "Our goal is to make hunting a priority among all the other activities and recreational opportunities that vie for a teenager's time. It's truly a challenge for the Game Commission, as well as Pennsylvania's one million hunters.
"To maximize this opportunity for young hunters, and to ensure we pass along the ethics and ideals of our hunting heritage, the Game Commission and Pheasants Forever urge local clubs to consider hosting a youth pheasant hunt for the young people in their community."
Those clubs interested in hosting a youth pheasant hunt are encouraged to use the planning guide prepared by the Game Commission and the Pennsylvania State Chapter of Pheasants Forever. The booklet offers a step-by-step guide on how to develop an organized youth pheasant hunt, and includes: a sample timeline; suggested committees and assignments; general event planning considerations; and several sample forms and news releases. It also includes event evaluation guides so clubs and organizations may consider changes for future youth pheasant hunts.
The manual can be viewed on the Game Commission's website (
www.pgc.state.pa.us), by clicking on "Forms & Programs," and then selecting "Youth Pheasant Hunt Planning Guide." In addition to the planning guide, the 2008-09 Pennsylvania Digest of Hunting and Trapping Regulations will feature a listing of all locations the Game Commission plans to stock for the youth pheasant hunt.
For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission - State Wildlife Management Agency website:
http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view.asp?a=11&Q=174674