Youth turkey hunt set for late April

MEEKER I With generous support from local private landowners, Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Hunter Outreach Program is offering three youth the opportunity to participate in a guided, high-quality spring turkey hunt on private land near Meeker on April 26-28. Youth under the age of 18 interested in participating in this unique opportunity can apply by sending a letter of interest that includes contact information for a parent or guardian, the hunter’s name, address, phone number, hunter dducation card number and an essay of 500 words or less.
“In the youth’s own words, the essay should express why the youth believes hunting is important for wildlife,” said Bailey Franklin, hunt organizer and district wildlife manager in Meeker. “In addition, the letter should show why they should be selected over other applicants to participate in this special spring turkey hunt.” Letters should be sent to: DWM Bailey Franklin, PO Box 1181, Meeker, CO 81641. No previous hunting experience is required and all youth hunters are encouraged to apply; youth interested in hunting who have never participated will be given preference over those that have already had previous hunting opportunities. Successful applicants and a parent, guardian or mentor must attend a pre-hunt orientation at the CPW Meeker office from 3-5 p.m. on April 26. Colorado Parks and Wildlife will provide shotguns, ammunition, blinds and calls. Hunters must provide their own camouflage, lodging and food. “Each youth hunter and their parents or guardian will be personally guided by one of our officers,” said Franklin.
“This makes this private land turkey hunt especially memorable and safe for everyone involved.” Letters and essays must be postmarked by April 15. The three youth chosen to participate in the turkey hunt will be notified by April 20. For more information about Hunter Outreach programs, visit wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/HunterOutreach/Pages/HunterOutreach. For more information about turkey hunting, visit wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/Turkey/Pages/turkey.aspx.