11TH ANNUAL YOUTH TURKEY HUNT AT COUNCIL GROVE APRIL 1-2

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Young hunters ages 11 through 16 invited; registration deadline March 18
COUNCIL GROVE — The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) — in cooperation with area chapters of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers — will conduct the Council Grove 11th Annual Spring Youth Turkey Hunt on April 2 near Council Grove. Youth must be age 11 through 16 to qualify. The event is part of KDWP's "Pass It On" program, designed to recruit young hunters.

This year’s event will provide participating hunters (age 11 through 16) with an opportunity to become involved not only in the hunt but also its preparation. The event will begin on Friday, April 1, at 4:30 p.m. at Council Grove Reservoir. A brief informational meeting and a meet-and-greet session for all volunteers and participants will be followed by a complimentary meal. After the meal, participants may pattern shotguns, then accompany guides to hunt locations to scout for the following morning’s hunt. At 5 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, the group will meet for breakfast, and the hunts will conclude at 11:30 a.m., when participants will enjoy a free lunch.

“Kansas turkey hunting prospects are excellent,” says Council Grove Wildlife Area manager Brent Konen, organizer of the event, “and the excitement of the spring hunt can spark a passion for the outdoors many young Kansans have never experienced.”

Lodging is available in nearby Council Grove, and camping is available at Council Grove Reservoir. Registration is required by March 18. For more information or to register, phone Brent Konen at 620-767-5900.