New Jersey Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife Back to State of NJ Homepage Back to Fish, Game and Wildlife Homepage Back to DEP Homepage 

DIVISION PROMOTES FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION WEEK IN NJ SEPT. 26 - OCT. 2

With additional activities September 25 and October 3

September 1, 1999

For more information contact:
David Chanda at 609-292-9450

Governor Christine Todd Whitman recently declared September 26 - October 2 as Fish and Wildlife Conservation Week and September 25 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 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 25

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
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.

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, Canada geese and Atlantic brant. 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 26

Taxidermy Mini-Show & Competition at the Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center
Rt. 46 nine miles west of Hackettstown
12 noon - 3 p.m.
Mounted mammal specimen judging by members of the Garden State Taxidermist Association. View entries and talk to some of the state's best professional taxidermists.

Cane Pole Fishing at the Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center
Rt. 46 nine miles west of Hackettstown 1 p.m.
Youngsters ages 5-7 will learn fishing safety and techniques through use of a simple cane pole, hook, line and bobber. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Call 908-637-4125.

Saturday, October 2

Hawk Walk at the Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center
Rt. 46 nine miles west of Hackettstown
9 a.m.
Hike with experienced birders to scan the skies for migrating raptors, other fall migrants and resident birds. Hike entails a moderate climb. Bring field guides and binoculars.

Sunday, October 3

8th Annual Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament
Island Beach State Park
6:30 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.

"Whales and the Ocean Environment" at the Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center
Rt. 46 nine miles west of Hackettstown
1:30 p.m.
Learn how litter and plastics affect marine wildlife and ocean habitat. A program for the entire family.