25,000 New Hunters
STATES REPORT SURGE IN YOUTHS HUNTING . . . Since NSSF helped launch Families Afield in 2004, 12 states have adopted new laws welcoming youths and other newcomers into hunting. Two of those states, Michigan and Ohio, also created apprentice hunting licenses allowing novices to give hunting a try under the watchful eye of an experienced mentor. First-year results appear extremely promising. More than 17,500 apprentice licenses were sold in Michigan, plus over 7,500 in Ohio, during 2006. These 25,000 new hunters suggest a 23 percent jump in the two states’ combined population of hunters age 15 and under. NSSF’s partners in Families Afield include the National Wild Turkey Federation and U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance.
http://www.familiesafield.org/