New youth turkey hunting program approved – Berkshire Eagle Online

By Gene Chague

LENOX

The National Wild Turkey Federation and the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife are making it easier for youngsters to discover the thrill of wild turkey hunting. The Massachusetts Fisheries and Wildlife Board recently approved a statewide mentored youth turkey hunting program that is modeled after its successful youth pheasant hunting program. The program will help 12 to 17-year-old hunter education graduates sharpen their newfound skills via a fun, hands-on workshop that will teach firearms safety, hunting ethics, techniques and more.

MDFW and volunteers from the Massachusetts chapter of NWTF worked together to develop program guidelines based largely on the NWTFs Turkey Hunting Success and Safety program, which educates hunters about safer turkey hunting.

The program, which will build on lessons learned in the Massachusetts basic hunter education program, will provide specialized training in turkey hunting and safety, as well as reinforcing what they learned in hunter education.

Youngsters who successfully complete the workshop, which includes shooting practice at the target range and simulated field hunting exercises, will receive a permit to hunt wild turkey under the supervision and guidance of an experienced adult hunter serving as a mentor on a special day set aside just for youth. This years annual hunt will take place on Saturday, April 25  Click Link Below For Full Story!

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