Kansas DWPT to Host Hays Youth Outdoor Festival August 17

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism along with Hays area conservation groups and businesses are again sponsoring a free target shooting and outdoor activities for youth 17 and under. The 16th Annual Youth Outdoor Festival is scheduled for Saturday, Aug.17, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hays City Sportsman’s Club a quarter mile north of I-70, Exit 157.

Youth can try trap shooting, skeet shooting, archery, air rifle/BB guns, muzzleloaders, small bore rifles, computerized laser shot target shooting, and even paintball target shooting. Equipment, targets and ammunition will be provided free of charge. There will also be a B.A.S.S. casting competition, as well as several furharvesting demonstrations.

Hunter Education certification is not required to attend, however youth participants must be accompanied by an adult. Youth will be closely supervised at each event station by a volunteer who is an expert at the specific skill.

In addition to the free shooting opportunities, several door prizes, including guns, fishing tackle and other outdoor equipment will be given away. Lunch will also be provided.

Registration for this event must be completed on site prior to participating in any of the activities.

For more information, contact Kent Hensley at (785) 726-3212 or Troy Mattheyer at (785) 726-4212.

Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is a state cabinet-level agency led by a Secretary of Wildlife and Parks appointed by the Governor of Kansas. The Office of the Secretary is located in Topeka, the state capital of Kansas. A seven-member, bipartisan commission, also appointed by the Governor, advises the Secretary and approves regulations governing outdoor recreation and fish and wildlife resources in Kansas. KDWP employs approximately 420 full-time employees in five divisions: Executive Services, Administrative Services, Fisheries and Wildlife, Law Enforcement, and Parks.