Youth Mentored Waterfowl and Upland Game Hunts Offered near Idaho Falls

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game in the Upper Snake Region will be offering a number of mentored youth hunts throughout the upcoming upland game and waterfowl seasons. These opportunities will focus on youth between the ages of 10 and 15 who are first-time hunters that come from non-hunting families. IDFG will provide a mentor and all equipment needed for the hunt. Youth will be required to purchase their own junior hunting license or obtain a hunter passport before the hunt and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during the hunt. "The purpose of this program is to get youth that would not have an opportunity otherwise into the field with an experienced mentor and an adult family member that can continue to take them out hunting in the future," said James Brower, Fish and Game volunteer coordinator. "We plan on having tons of fun and making lifelong memories for both the youth and their hunting buddy." Anyone interested in these mentored hunt opportunities, are asked to complete an application available at the Fish and Game office located at 4279 Commerce Circle in Idaho Falls. Applications must be turned in by October 15, and preference will be given to applications turned in early. For questions about participating in this program contact James Brower at (208) 525-7290, by email at james.brower@idfg.idaho.gove, or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529 (TDD).