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News and Events
MDWFP Youth Waterfowl Hunting and Education Camp
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Jackson – The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Mississippi State University, Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl, Delta Wildlife, and private individuals have joined together to establish the MDWFP Youth Waterfowl Hunting and Education Camp. The Camp’s mission is to recruit and retain waterfowl hunters and increase support for wetland conservation and waterfowl hunting in Mississippi and North America.
“The camp is much more than a youth waterfowl hunting trip. During the weekend, youth ages 14-16 will learn about the importance of waterfowl and wetlands and the key role of hunting in their conservation,” said Ed Penny, MDWFP Waterfowl Coordinator.
Classroom discussions and hands-on exercises will be led by biologists and experienced hunters to help students gain a better understanding of wetlands, waterfowl, and ethical hunting practices. Additionally, local field trips to public and privately managed wetlands will be conducted to expose youth to the diversity of habitats that waterfowl use in Mississippi. The camp will conclude with an optional waterfowl hunt for youth aged 14-15 years old.
The MDWFP Youth Waterfowl Camp will be held in the Mississippi Delta on a private hunting club in Tallahatchie County from February 4-7, 2010. All youth will be supervised by qualified professionals throughout the weekend. Youth ages 14-16 are encouraged to apply, however, only youth less than 16 years old will be eligible for the hunt after the camp. Due to space constraints, we will only accept 15 youths for the camp. To apply for the camp, the youth must complete the application form that can be accessed at home.mdwfp.com/waterfowl and return it to MDWFP Youth Waterfowl Hunting and Education Camp, Attention: Ed Penny, 1505 Eastover Drive, Jackson, MS 39211 by January 4, 2010. Applications will be selected by the quality and content of the essays. Youth will be notified if they were selected for the camp by January 8, 2010.
Prior hunting experience is not required to attend, however, a desire to learn about waterfowl, wetlands, and hunting is necessary. Meals and lodging will be provided, and parents will be reimbursed for travel expenses. For more information about the Youth Waterfowl and Hunting and Education Camp, contact Ed Penny at 601-432-2202.
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
1505 Eastover Drive, Jackson, Mississippi 39211 – 601-432-2400