Hunting seasons continue

Various deer and elk hunts continue. Also the duck, coot and snipe seasons continue, along with the goose season.

And this is not all...The late fall turkey hunt continues through Dec. 15 in Game Management Units 105 through 154 and 162 through 186. The limit is one turkey of either sex.

The forest grouse season, ruffed, blue and spruce, will close on Dec. 31. The pheasant, quail and partridge, chukar and Huns, continue into January.

The cotton tail and snowshoe hare seasons remain open, is the crow season.

These seasons make provide a good reason to get into the outdoors. Take advantage of the opportunities.

Did you know...

Sportsmen contribute nearly $8 million every day, adding more than $2.9 billion every year for conservation.

Hunters and target shooters have paid $6.8 billion in excise taxes since the inception of the Pittman-Robertson Act in 1937.

Hunting in America is big business, generating 600,000 jobs in the United States.

For more than 80 years, sportsmen have paid more than $13.7 billion for on-the-ground projects in every state, protecting our natural environment and our fish and wildlife.

The $4.95 billion in annual federal tax money generated by hunters' spending could cover the annual paychecks of 150,000 U.S. Army Sergeants.

These facts courtesy of the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

Firearm safety

Hunters and students of the shooting sports should always remember the first three words when handling firearms; safety, safety and safety. Learn and discuss these firearm safety points with your hunting buddies: Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction; Firearms should be unloaded when not actually in use; Don't rely on your gun's safety; Be sure of your target and what's beyond it.

Also: Use the correct ammunition; If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, handle with care; Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting; Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting; Don't alter or modify your firearm; Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the firearm you are using.