STAR JOURNAL REPORT

Anyone interested in learning to bird hunt can do so free of charge next month. The local chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) is offering a new-hunter mentor program Aug. 19-20 in Three Lakes.

RGS a national organization of grouse and woodcock hunters which supports scientific conservation and management efforts to ensure the future of the species.

“Our new-hunter mentor program offers those interested in bird hunting in the Northwoods a chance to learn this exciting activity directly from experienced, certified mentors,” said Dan Anderson, chairman of the local Chain O’ Lakes RGS chapter.  “The national organization has a successful program that we use as an outline, and locals with many years of experience hunting our area, including use of trained hunting dogs, teach the course.”

The course is open to participants over age 12 and will consist of two half-days Aug. 19-20.  Experience gained in this program can be applied to hunting most other species. Topics will include:

• Gun safety, marksmanship and shooting
• Dog handling
• Field and mapping skills
• Habitat awareness

The finale will be a hunt this fall with an experienced, certified grouse hunting mentor.

Successful graduates of the course will receive a free six-month RSG membership, a ticket to the organization’s banquet and patches for each of the three sections of the course and a workbook with grouse and woodcock hunting information.

Register no later than Aug. 5 by contacting Willard Greenman at 715-617-4668.  Registrations must be received no later than August 5th, 2017. Interested parties can get more information and also sign up at the RGS Chain O’ Lakes Chapter booth at Forest Fest at Trees for Tomorrow July 29 in Eagle River.

Established in 1961, the Ruffed Grouse Society is a prominent North American conservation organization dedicated to preserving our sporting traditions by creating healthy forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other wildlife. RGS works with landowners and government agencies to develop critical habitat utilizing scientific management practices.