Local volunteers with support from local businesses, along with The National Wild Turkey Federation and the Missouri Department of Conservation, will be holding the Annual Stoddard County JAKES Event on Saturday, May 31.
"This annual event has proven to be popular with kids and parents alike," says Stoddard County Conservation Agent Mark Reed. "So, if you haven't attended one yet, here is your chance."
The day begins at 8:00 a.m. sharp, so reed advises parents to arrive early. The day's activities will conclude around 1 p.m. following lunch.
The JAKES Event is open to all youngsters age 6 thru 16 and the lunch is provided. The day is free, thanks to financial support from the community and local businesses. As in past years, the event will be held at the Holly Ridge Conservation Area archery range and pavilion on Stoddard County Road 517 in rural Bloomfield.
"The easiest way to find the area is to travel east from Bloomfield on HWY E then turn south on CR 517. Stay on 517 and you will find us," says Reed.
Popular activities include archery, trapping, target shooting, nature hike, primitive skills, and more. The youngsters are divided into small groups based on age, and they move around the area on a schedule, allowing everyone to participate in all activities.
The NWTF's philosophy of "Share the Hunt" encourages avid sportsmen and women to take others along not only on hunting trips but also a variety of other outdoor experiences.
All equipment will be provided by the NWTF and the MDC, so there is no need to bring anything except an appetite for adventure and maybe some bug spray.
Most of the day will take place in mowed areas, but closed-toe shoes are recommended for walks in the woods. Each activity will be supervised by experienced personnel to ensure a safe and enjoyable day.
For more information, contact Dale Kemp at 624-1283, John Pyles at 568-3774, or Mark Reed at 421-3240.