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DIVISION PROMOTES FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION WEEK IN NJ SEPT. 27 - OCT. 3

September 15, 1998

For more information contact:
David Chanda at 609-984-6295

Governor Christine Todd Whitman recently declared September 27 - October 3 as Fish and Wildlife Conservation Week and September 26 as National Hunting Fishing Day (NHFD) in New Jersey. Scheduled to begin the day after NHFD, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Week seeks to recognize and commend the sporting community for more than a century of leadership and commitment in conserving our fish and wildlife resources.

"Due to severe budget constraints, the Division cannot offer as many Fish and Wildlife Conservation Week activities as in past years, however, we are offering a handful of events throughout the state to commemorate the occasion," said Division Director Bob McDowell.

"These activities are designed to get individuals and families outdoors and acquaint them with the variety of wildlife that inhabits our state," said David Chanda, chief of the Division's Office of Wildlife Education.

Following is a list of upcoming activities.

Saturday, September 26

National Hunting & Fishing Day

Sportsmen and women are invited to help celebrate NH&F Day by making a special effort to help others understand their role in conservation and their ongoing contributions to the well being of our natural resources. Individuals are asked to take at least one friend, family member, neighbor, business associate or other acquaintance with them on some type of outdoor activity.

Introduction to Shooting Sports at Union County Trap and Skeet Range

Lenape Park on Kenilworth Boulevard in Cranford
12 noon - 4 p.m.
All equipment provided by the Division. Instructors will coach youngsters on the use of air rifles and bows and arrows. Beginning shooters aged 10 and up may also receive instruction on the shotgun range.

Taxidermy Mini-Show & Competition at the Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center

Rt. 46 nine miles west of Hackettstown
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Mounted bird specimen judging by members of the Garden State Taxidermist Association. Ongoing taxidermy demonstrations.

Youth Waterfowl Hunting Day

Take time to introduce a young hunter to the exciting sport of waterfowl hunting in a relaxed, non-competitive atmosphere. Occurs statewide, 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset. Licensed youth hunters, aged 10-15, accompanied by a licensed adult (18 years or older) will be permitted to hunt for ducks and Atlantic brant. Canada geese may be taken if in possession of a September Canada Goose Season permit. Snow geese not legal game species on this day. Youths may hunt on public lands and waters or private lands/waters with permission. Federal and state duck stamps are not needed for this hunt. Non-toxic shot is required. See Migratory Bird Supplement for bag limits.

Sunday, September 27

Litter Prevention Program at the Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center

Rt. 46 nine miles west of Hackettstown
1:30 p.m.
A litter prevention program sponsored by the Mansfield Twp. Clean Communities Organization. Environmental educator Diana Dove will conduct this program of songs, nature sounds, animal costumes and interactive activities. For pre-schoolers through adults. Call 908-637-4125.

Sunday, October 4

7th Annual Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament

Island Beach State Park
6 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Open to individuals of all ages. Registration is $10 for adults, $5 for teens aged 13-17 and free for kids 12 and under. Stop by your local bait and tackle shop for an application or call 908-637-4125.