Fall Junior Hunter Field Day Set for Garrett County September 29

Swanton, Md. (August 28, 2012) ─  Youth interested in wildlife and the outdoors are invited to join staff from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and local conservation groups for the 4th annual Fall Junior Hunter Field Day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 29 in Bittinger. Young people, ages 8 to 16, interested in wildlife activities and shooting sports will experience the fun of the great outdoors while learning about natural resources management.

“This is a terrific opportunity for youth to participate in outdoor activities they may not have had the chance to do before” said Clarissa Harris, DNR regional wildlife response manager. “This event will provide a safe, fun and hands-on opportunity for young people to learn about shooting sports, hunting and the important role hunters play in the conservation and stewardship of Maryland’s wildlife.”

Youth with an interest in hunting white-tailed deer, trapping, archery and shooting clay targets will have an opportunity to learn and interact with DNR personnel and local conservationists in a safe, mentored setting. Participants will learn about natural resources stewardship, wildlife biology, safety and ethical conduct in the field. DNR will provide all the equipment and certified instructors will oversee all shooting activities.

The event will take place at the Western Maryland 4-H Center in Bittinger, Md. Participants will receive a free lunch. Pre-registration is required and is limited to the first 100 applicants. Registration information is available by calling the Wildlife and Heritage Service Cumberland Office at 301-777-2136 or visiting dnr.state.md.us/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. 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