Youth Waterfowl Hunting Day November 7

Annapolis, Md. (October 26, 2009) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters that youth waterfowl hunting day will open Saturday, November 7.

“This is a great opportunity for an experienced hunter to introduce a youngster to this great Maryland tradition,” said Larry Hindman, DNR Waterfowl Project Leader. “It is a day when the focus is entirely on young hunters. This is a wonderful opportunity to refresh the lessons learned in hunter safety class and engage kids in traditions such as placing decoys, calling waterfowl and hunting with a retriever.”

Any licensed hunter 15 years of age or younger may participate during this one-day hunt. Youngsters who are exempt from Maryland hunting license requirements may also participate but are reminded that all youth waterfowl hunters must purchase a Maryland Migratory Game Bird Hunting Stamp for $9 and have the proof of purchase available for inspection.

Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years of age who holds a valid Maryland hunting license or is properly exempt from the hunting license requirements. The accompanying adult may call waterfowl, assist with decoys and retrieve downed birds, but may not possess a firearm. The bag limits for Youth Waterfowl Hunting Day are the same as during the regular season, except one black duck and two Canada geese may also be taken. For a complete description of waterfowl bag limits see http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide/lwfchart.asp.

Maryland has a rich waterfowl hunting heritage. DNR builds on this tradition by partnering with conservation groups such as the Maryland Waterfowler’s Association, Ducks Unlimited, Inc., and Delta Waterfowl to promote habitat conservation and the mentoring of youth hunters.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 461,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov