Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : September 9, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Mike Spangler, Law Enforcement Section (304) 269-0479 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

Sign Up for the Outdoor Youth Challenge

At National Hunting and Fishing Days Celebration

September 24-25 at Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park

  The Outdoor Youth Challenge will once again be held in conjunction with West Virginia 's celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Days at Stonewall Jackson State Park. The dates for this year's event are September 24 th and 25 th. Youth ages 10 to 17 are encouraged to participate. Ages 10 to 13 will compete on Saturday, and ages 14 to 17 will compete on Sunday. The activities will begin at 10 a.m. with registration beginning at 9 a.m., so early arrival is recommended. All necessary equipment will be provided. Categories for the competition include: 22 rifle, muzzleloader, shotgun, casting, archery, wildlife management, fish identification, range and distance estimation, and a wildcard event that is different every year.

  “This event is not just about competition,” said Conservation Officer Mike Spangler. “All participants will have a good time and will get to spend the day using various outdoor sports equipment and developing skills that are fun and rewarding.”

  Prizes and food will be provided for participants and food will be accessible for spectators to purchase. Winners of each individual event receive prize packages and plaques, while the overall winner receives a muzzle loading rifle and a trophy.

  Call 304-269-0479 for more information or to obtain an application, or visit the Division of Natural Resources Web site at www.wvdnr.gov and access the rules and application for the event. Click on the National Hunting and Fishing Days button under ”Special Opportunities” and then follow the links to the Youth Challenge pages. Fill out the application form and mail it, along with your sponsorship fee, to Mike Spangler, Conservation Officer, 149 State Park Trail, Roanoke, WV, 26447. Please make all checks payable to the West Virginia Wildlife Federation.

  The National Hunting and Fishing Day Celebration is sponsored by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and the West Virginia Wildlife Federation. More than 100 vendors and exhibits will be available. The public is invited to enjoy archery, youth competition, good food, sport dogs, care and cooking of fish and game, shotgun and black powder shooting, and many more activities and door prizes. Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for children under age 15, and children 3 and under free. For more information call (304) 558-2771 or visit www.wvdnr.gov/hunting/nathuntfish.shtm .

**DNR**