MISSOURI YOUTHS MUST APPLY FOR SPECIAL HUNTS BY AUG. 15

JEFFERSON CITY -- Hunters have from July 1 through August 15 to apply for youth deer hunts sponsored by the Missouri Department of Conservation. The Conservation Department administers two hunts especially for youths age 11 through 15. The hunts will take place Oct. 30 and 31 at August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area (CA) and Weldon Spring CA. Both hunts take place in St. Charles County, but they are open to youths statewide.

As many as 120 youngsters, each accompanied by an adult sponsor, will take part in the two hunts. Friends who want to hunt together may apply on one application card. However, each youth must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or other adult sponsor who is at least 21 years of age. The signature of a parent or guardian must appear on the application. A second signature is required to request a volunteer adult sponsor if the parent or guardian does not participate.

Application cards for the youth-only hunt are available by calling the Busch area near St. Charles, 314/441-4554, or by contacting the Missouri Department of Conservation, Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180, 573/751-4115, ext. 156.

Hunter education certification is required for both youth hunters and their adult sponsors. Both also must attend a pre-hunt orientation. The orientation will involve four to six hours of advanced youth hunter certification, including deer rifle familiarization, development of hunting skills and hands-on instruction in adjusting rifle sights at a shooting range and how to field dress a deer.

Hunters permanently confined to wheelchairs automatically will be allowed to take part in youth deer hunts. Applicants must fill out a separate application form and attach a supporting licensed physician's statement.