NEW YEAR UNDERWAY FOR MENTORED YOUTH HUNTING PROGRAM
Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe today encouraged experienced hunters, who have historically helped pass along the state's rich hunting heritage, to consider introducing youths to hunting through the Mentored Youth Hunting Program (MYHP).
New this year is the requirement that all mentored youth obtain a permit through the Game Commission's new Pennsylvania Automated License System (PALS), which costs $2.70. Of that fee, one dollar goes to the Game Commission, one dollar goes to the issuing agent who processes the permit application, and 70 cents goes to the company managing PALS.
"When we first started the MYHP, we didn't require a permit because there was no method available to issue a permit without creating an enormous obstacle for participants," Roe said. "With the full roll-out of our electronic license sale system this year, we can provide a method for adult mentors to enable youth to obtain a permit without too many difficulties.
"By implementing the permit for the MYHP, we will be able to start gathering data about the level of participation in this program, which can be used to assist in better planning and scheduling our basic Hunter-Trapper Education courses. This database of MYHP participants will let us know how many young hunters are approaching 11 years of age, and where they live, so that we can make sure the number of courses we are offering will meet the expected demand."
PATCH AND PLUG TO RECOGNIZE MENTORED YOUTH HUNTING PROGRAM
As part of its popular patch collection offerings, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has commissioned a new patch to promote the Mentored Youth Hunting Program. The 4.5- by 3.5-inch patch is accompanied by a Saf-T Plug that acts as a visual cue that the action of any pump-action or semi-automatic shotgun is open and safe. The two items sell for $7, including sales tax, and can be obtained at any Game Commission office or through "The Outdoor Shop" on the agency's website (
www.pgc.state.pa.us).
For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission - State Wildlife Management Agency website:
http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view.asp?a=11&Q=176977
