Do you know a young person who would like to be introduced to hunting?

Dove hunters throughout the state have a special opportunity to introduce a young person to hunting through the Step Outside program's youth dove hunts. The youth dove hunts are sponsored by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division.

The youth dove hunts scheduled for Covington County will be held at two sites on Saturday, Sept. 6 and at two sites again on Saturday, Sept. 13. Those interested in pre-registering should contact the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries District IV Office at 222-5415 and speak with John Powers or Thagard Colvin.

Pre-registration is necessary for all of the youth dove hunts. When a youth pre-registers he will receive directions to the field and other pertinent information. Before each hunt there will be a short welcome session with reminders of hunting safety precautions. Dove hunting will begin immediately following the welcome session.

In cooperation with landowners, local volunteers, businesses and organizations youth dove hunts are scheduled for site throughout the state.

Youth dove hunts are set to be held at 37 sites in 31 counties in Alabama. Young hunters must be less than 16-years-old and must be accompanied by an adult at least 25-years-old, with a valid state hunting license and a Harvest Information Program (H.I.P.) stamp. All hunters, youth and adult, are encouraged to wear eye protection and ear plugs during the hunts.

Generous statewide sponsors for the youth dove hunts help make these events possible. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division gives special thanks to the Alabama Wildlife Federation, Alabama Power Company, National Rifle Association, William R. Ireland, Alabama Chapter of National Wild Turkey Federation, Alabama Chapter of Safari Club International and the numerous landowner hosts and volunteers.

A complete list of scheduled youth dove hunts scheduled to be held throughout the state may be accessed at www.conservation.alabama.gov.

For additional information, contact the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries District Office at 222-5415 or call (800) 262-3151.