Junior Hunter Field Day Planned For May 8, 2010

Swanton, MD (March 24, 2010) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is partnering with local conservation groups to present their second-annual Western Maryland Junior Hunter Field Day on Saturday, May 8, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Midland Sportsman’s Club in Midland, Md. This event will allow young people interested in wildlife activities to experience nature, while learning about the management of the State’s natural resources.

“This event will provide a safe, fun and hands-on atmosphere for young people to learn about hunting’s important role in Maryland’s wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation under the guidance of wildlife professionals,” said Clarissa Harris, DNR Wildlife & Heritage Service, Regional Wildlife Response Coordinator.

State and local conservationists will give youth interested in hunting, trapping and wildlife management the opportunity to learn about shooting sports, hunting, wildlife and fisheries management – including archery, sporting clays, turkey hunting, and fishing -- while being mentored by certified instructors. Wildlife and Heritage Service staff and the Maryland Natural Resources Police will join representatives of sporting and conservation organizations to provide expertise in natural resources stewardship, safety, wildlife biology, and ethical conduct in the field. Lunch for youth and parents as well as all equipment will be provided.

This event is open to young people, ages 8 to 16. Pre-registration is required and is limited to the first 100 applicants, so register early. Please contact the Wildlife and Heritage Service Cumberland Office at 301-777-2136 to request registration information. Information is also available online at: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2009, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 467,000 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