The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) provides several youth dove hunt opportunities throughout the state each fall.

Registration for this year’s hunts will open at 8:00 a.m. CST on August 15. Although the hunts are free, online registration is required.

The first youth dove hunts of the season begin on September 3. For more information including a complete hunt schedule, visit the department’s webpage.

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

Alabama’s youth dove hunt events are held in open fields and staffed by WFF personnel, which encourage a safe, secure environment for both parents and participants. The events are designed to be a family-friendly environment.

According to Jennifer McKemie, a long-time participant in the hunts, the events present children with hunting opportunities that would otherwise not exist.

“So many kids don’t have the opportunity to go hunting; there’s always someone willing to help, and they’re so much fun,” said McKemie.

Before each hunt, a short welcome session with reminders on hunting safety is conducted. All hunters are encouraged to wear eye and ear protection.

Furthermore, ADCNR promotes educational opportunities to teach children wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources. ADCNR does this through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries.

David Palmore is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News