The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) are offering youth ages 12 to 15 the opportunity to hunt turkey this spring during the 16^th Annual Jefferson County Youth Turkey Hunt. The hunt with ECOs is a two-day event that starts with an educational portion held at the Sackets Harbor Sportsman’s Club. The educational day is open to anyone interested in attending; participation in the educational day is required for those planning to attend the hunt.

What: Jefferson County Youth Turkey Hunt

When: Educational day – Friday, April 25, at 5:30 p.m.; hunting day – Saturday, April 26

Where: Sackets Harbor Sportsman’s Club, 17500 County Route 66, Sackets Harbor, NY 13685

To participate, youth hunters must possess a New York State small game license and valid turkey tags. The event is free to participants and equipment will be provided if necessary. This affordable opportunity supports Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, to promote physical and mental health by helping New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. The event is hosted by the Sackets Harbor Sportsman’s Club and sponsored by the National Wild Turkey Federation and the New York Conservation Officers Association.

Signup sheets are available at the Sackets Harbor Sportsman’s Club, 17500 County Route 66, and VanTassel’s Gunsmithing, 30412 NY-37, Evans Mills. For additional information or to register for the event please contact ECO Lt. Steve Bartoszewski by phone at 315-489-6984 or by email at steven.bartoszewski@dec.ny.gov.

Individuals interested in participating in a sponsored turkey hunt or other mentored hunting opportunities can register for events in their area on the Hunt Fish NY Events page. Mentored and sponsored hunts are added weekly, especially during the late summer, so interested parties are encouraged to check back frequently.