Youth Waterfowl Camp

For the past three years MDWFP has hosted the Youth Waterfowl Hunting and Education Camp. The camp's mission is to recruit and retain waterfowl hunters and increase support for wetland
conservation and waterfowl hunting in Mississippi. The camp is much more than a youth waterfowl hunting trip.  During the camp, youth ages 13-16 will increase their knowledge of waterfowl and wetland biology and management. Classroom discussions and hands-on exercises will be led by MDWFP biologists to help students gain a better understanding of wetlands, waterfowl, and ethical hunting practices. In addition, local field trips to public and privately managed wetlands will expose youth to the diversity of habitats that waterfowl use in Mississippi. The camp concludes with an optional adult-supervised waterfowl hunt.

The camp is held in the Mississippi Delta during youth waterfowl weekend in February. Youth ages 13-16 are encouraged to apply, however, only those youth less than 16 years old will
be eligible for the hunt at the camp's conclusion.  Because of limited space, only 15 youth will be selected for the camp. Application periods will be announced months prior to the camp.

Prior hunting experience is not required to attend, however, a desire to learn about waterfowl, wetlands, and hunting is needed. Meals and lodging will be provided for campers, and parents will be reimbursed for some travel expenses. For more information about the Youth Waterfowl Hunting and Education Camp, contact James Callicutt at 601-432-2079 or jamesca@mdwfp.state.ms.us .