With dove hunting season fast approaching, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has announced that registration for the annual fall youth dove hunts opens 8 a.m., Aug. 21.

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

The hunts will take in place in open fields with Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries personnel on hand. A short welcome session will emphasize hunting safety.

The first hunts of the season are Sept. 2. Although they are free, online registration is required. For more information, visit www.outdooralabama.com/youth-hunting/youth-dove-hunts.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.