Conservation Department Schedules Youth Dove Hunts

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The Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announces registration for the Eighth Annual Youth Dove Hunts begins Aug. 20 for the North Zone and Sept. 24 for the South Zone. To date, over 13,000 young hunters have participated in these annual hunts.

In cooperation with landowners, local volunteers, businesses and organizations, 54 dove hunts are scheduled in 28 counties throughout the state. To participate, youth hunters must be age 15 or younger and accompanied by an adult at least 25 years old (or a parent) who holds a valid state hunting license and a Harvest Information Program (HIP) stamp. All hunters are encouraged to wear eye protection and earplugs.

Registration is necessary for all youth dove hunts. Before each hunt, there will be a short welcome session with reminders on hunting safety. According to Conservation officials, dove hunting is a perfect way to introduce youngsters to the tradition of bird hunting and spend quality time with family members. “We encourage bird hunters to pass on the tradition to young people today so that future generations can also learn the enjoyment of the outdoors and dove hunting,” said Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division Director Corky Pugh.

North Zone hunts begin Sept. 6 and South Zone hunts begin Oct. 4. South Zone counties include Baldwin, Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Escambia, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Mobile counties. The remaining counties are in the north zone. To register, contact the appropriate number listed below. Hunt schedules, contact information, and schedule changes or updates may be found on the Department’s Web site at http://www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/youth-hunts/youthdove.cfm.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries.

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