Spring Junior Hunter Field Day In Allegany County

Annapolis, Md. (March 29, 2011) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has partnered with local conservation groups to present a spring Junior Hunter Field Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 7 at the Midland Sportsman’s Club in Midland, Allegany County.

“Under the guidance of wildlife professionals, this event will provide a safe, fun and hands-on opportunity for young people to learn about hunting and the important role it plays in Maryland’s wildlife conservation,” said Clarissa Harris, regional wildlife response coordinator for DNR’s Wildlife & Heritage Service.

The program creates an excellent opportunity for young people interested in wildlife activities to experience the fun of the great outdoors and learn how to become involved in the management of our natural resources. Those with an interest in hunting, shooting sports and wildlife and fisheries management will have an opportunity to interact with DNR personnel and local conservationists in a safe, mentored setting, learning about archery, sporting clays, turkey hunting and fishing. Professionals from DNR will join representatives of sporting and conservation organizations to provide expertise in natural resources stewardship, wildlife and fisheries biology, and safety and ethical conduct in the field.

All equipment will be provided. Certified instructors will oversee all shooting activities. A free lunch will be provided by the Midland Sportsmen’s Club.

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 or visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Education/youth/index.asp.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages nearly one-half million 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 11 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