VERMONT — Youth hunters are encouraged to sign up for the fourth annual Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt this spring. The event is sponsored by the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and is open to any licensed hunter under the age of 16.
Youth hunters will be treated to a luncheon on Sunday, April 17, at the Waterbury Fish & Game Club, where they will take part in a discussion on the importance of the hunting tradition in Vermont. Fish & Wildlife Department Commissioner Louis Porter will be in attendance for the event.
The following weekend, the young hunters will take part in a guided turkey hunt to coincide with Vermont’s youth turkey hunting weekend on April 23-24.
“I always look forward to this event,” Gov. Shumlin said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a Vermont tradition with the young Vermonters who will carry it on for generations to come.”
Interested youth hunters are required to submit a completed application along with a letter explaining why they would like to participate in the event. Applications are available at vtfishandwildlife.com and must be submitted by April 1.
“The Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt is a great way for kids to try turkey hunting under the supervision of a professional guide and mentor,” said NWTF chapter vice-president Don Isabelle. “The young hunters have a great chance of seeing birds at that time of year. Turkey hunting is especially fun for kids because there is often a lot of action, calling back and forth with a bird.”
“Gov. Shumlin is an ideal spokesman for this program,” said Isabelle. “As a lifelong hunter, he understands the importance of this tradition.”
“Kids who are exposed to hunting at a young age often become lifelong hunters and passionate conservationists,” said Fish & Wildlife Department wild turkey project leader Amy Alfieri. “They gain a strong appreciation for where their food comes from, and they understand the importance of healthy habitat for wildlife.”
An initiative of the Vermont State Chapter of the NWTF, the Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt coincides with this year’s Jakes’ Day event, an annual youth turkey hunting event held by the NWTF to educate youth about wildlife conservation and stewardship of Vermont’s natural resources. Each youth hunter will be provided a guide from the NWTF. Previous hunting experience is not required to participate.