GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) – Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers an opportunity for novice hunters through the agency’s Hunter Outreach Program. The classes will allow hunters from across the state to learn skills and responsible practices directly from CPW experts.
The classes allow people ages 12 and up to apply for the opportunity to learn how to hunt big and small game, especially if they don’t have anyone to show them how to do it.
“What we’ve learned is that a lot of people want to learn how to hunt, but they don’t have someone at home to teach them how to do it,” said Kathleen Mawhinney, hunter outreach coordinator for the NW region. “That’s why the Hunter Outreach Program is so valuable. Once they experience first-hand mentorship from CPW experts, they will be able to hunt safely and responsibly well into the future.”
Those interested in the program and between the ages of 12 and 17 are asked to complete the Young Hunters Outreach Application. Those over the age of 18 are asked to complete the Novice Female and Adult Field Hunt Application.
Applicants must be a Colorado resident and have a valid Hunter Education Card. Additionally, those applying for the adult and novice female hunts must not have a history of purchasing big game licenses in the previous five years.
All applications must be submitted by October 14, 2022.
“Over the years, thousands of novice hunters have learned the skills and techniques necessary to hunt a variety of game large and small, including deer, elk, pronghorn, upland fowl or waterfowl,” Mawhinney said. “The future of Colorado’s wildlife management efforts depends heavily on our hunters, and the successful Hunter Extension Program continues to be a big part of that by teaching novice people how to hunt.”
Mawhinney says that even with expert mentoring, not every hunter will be able to fill his tag. She believes that hunting in Colorado is one of the most rewarding activities because it allows friends and family to enjoy the outdoors together.
“Hunting gets people out there, it teaches responsibility, it teaches effective wildlife management, and if you’re lucky, putting fresh, organic meat on the table is a bonus. This is a fantastic opportunity for our future hunters,” he said.
“Hunting gets people out there, it teaches responsibility, it teaches effective wildlife management, and if you’re lucky, putting fresh, organic meat on the table is a bonus. This is a fantastic opportunity for our future hunters,” he said.
For more information on the Hunter Outreach program, visit the CPW website.
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