3 free turkey hunts set

RBC I Colorado Parks and Wildlife is offering three young hunters a chance to win a mentored spring turkey hunt on private land near Meeker on April 12 and 13.
The hunt is possible due to support of local landowners in partnership with state wildlife managers. Part of the CPW Hunter Outreach Program, the hunt is an effort to instill interest and respect for wildlife, the outdoors and the traditions of hunting.
“Many of the kids who have participated in these hunts have gone on to become responsible sportsmen and women,” said Bailey Franklin, hunt organizer and district wildlife manager in Meeker. “It’s a fun, educational experience and we encourage all aspiring hunters to apply for this rare, private land hunt.”
Applicants 18 and under who possess a hunter safety card must send a letter of interest postmarked by March 31 to: DWM Bailey Franklin, P.O. Box 1181, Meeker, Colo., 81641.
The letter should indicate an interest in the hunt and include the youth’s name, address and hunter education card number and a phone number for the applicant’s parent or guardian.
Each letter must include an essay of 500 words or less about hunting and why the applicant should be selected. The essay must be written by the applicant and in their own words. The applicant’s interest in hunting, limited experience and desire to learn are suggested topics for the essay.
Those who have little or no experience will be given priority over experienced hunters. CPW will provide shotguns, ammunition, blinds and calls.
The winners will be notified by April 4 and they must also be able to attend a pre-hunt orientation at Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Meeker office April 11 from 3 to 5 p.m., accompanied by a parent or guardian.
For more information, call the CPW in Meeker at 878-6090.