Conservation Department opens registration for youth dove hunts

MONTGOMERY — With dove hunts slated to start next month, the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said registration for the youth dove hunts will start Monday.

The hunts provide a simple hunting setup combined with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere makes WFF’s youth dove hunts an ideal way to introduce young people to the outdoors.

“For many future hunters their first experience afield was during one of Alabama’s youth dove hunts,” said Conservation Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “From fostering community to connecting them with the outdoors, these hunts are a great way to introduce kids to the many outdoor recreation opportunities the state has to offer.

“We encourage anyone with children who are interested in hunting to experience one of our youth dove hunts this season.”

Registration will open at 8 a.m. Monday. Although the hunts are free, online registration is required.

The North Alabama youth dove hunts are:

• Sept. 6 – Cherokee (Colbert County)
• Sept. 13 – Toney (Madison County) and Whitesville (Marshall County)
• Sept. 20 – Tanner (Limestone County)
• Sept. 27 – Hollywood (Jackson County)

For more information, including a complete hunt schedule, visit www.outdooralabama.com/youth-hunting/youth-dove-hunts.

The youth dove hunt events are held in open fields and staffed by WFF personnel, which encourages a safe, secure environment for both parents and youth participants. Before each hunt, a short welcome session with reminders on hunting safety is conducted.

All hunters are encouraged to wear eye and ear protection and bring plenty of water and snacks.

To participate in the hunts, youth hunters must be age 15 or younger and accompanied by an adult at least 21 years old (or a parent) who has a valid state hunting license, a Harvest Information Program and a Conservation ID number.