PIERRE, S.D.—Two of the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department’s most popular publications are now available to the public.

In addition to their regular business, Game, Fish and Parks Commissioners will get a history lesson when they conduct their August meeting at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park. The commission's agenda for the one-day meeting on Aug. 7 includes a tour of the park, located 10 miles southwest of Lake City. 

Glenn Sapir, of Putnam Valley, N.Y., was recognized as the National Wild Turkey Federation's 2008 Communicator of the Year recipient during a Professional Outdoor Media Association conference luncheon Saturday, Aug. 2, in Sioux Falls, S.D.

PIERRE, S.D.—South Dakota’s hunting heritage has traditionally been passed from one generation to the next. Recognizing that linage, and wanting to help it along, the S.D. Legislature approved a bill this year that allows children as young as 10 years of age to take part in mentored hunting opportunities.

“Having youngsters in the field is nothing new in South Dakota,” said Tony Leif, director of the Wildlife Division of the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department. “Many South Dakotans learned about hunting and the outdoors well before they were old enough to hunt.”

HURON, S.D.—With the arrival of spring, people are anxious to get outdoors and enjoy the nice weather. The S.D. Outdoor Expo to be held on the S.D. State Fairgrounds on May 17-18 will be a great opportunity for the whole family to get outside, enjoy the outdoors and learn a few new activities that they can enjoy all summer long. There are nearly 100 activities and booths for people to visit. There is sure to be something for everyone.

PIERRE, S.D.—South Dakota’s robust turkey population has proven to be popular with hunters. Consequently, when they take to the field this weekend, turkey hunters should use caution in order to have a safe hunting experience. The spring turkey season starts on April 12.

“Hunters shouldn’t make the mistake of thinking that they’re in the woods alone,” said Curt Robertson, hunter safety coordinator for the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department. “A hunter who makes that assumption is more likely to be involved in an accident.”

PIERRE, SD—The S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department has identified the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program as a powerful tool to meet goals to provide additional undisturbed habitat for wildlife and public hunting access.

PIERRE, S.D.—Pheasant hunting will be a recurring topic when the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Commission conducts its April meeting in Brookings. The meeting will be held Thursday and Friday, April 3 and 4 at the Days Inn, Brookings.

PIERRE, S.D. – Enrollment in the 2008 Walk-In Area, S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department hunting access program, has begun and will be open for enrollment until June 1.

Each spring, the National Wild Turkey Federation’s wildlife biologists hear the fears of concerned hunters who don't understand that prescribed burns in March and April -- months generally known as wild turkey nesting months -- are far more beneficial than harmful to wild turkey populations. However, the NWTF's wildlife biologists have research showing the years of improved nesting and brood habitat created by a growing season prescribed fire is far more important to the turkey population than the loss of a few nests.

PIERRE, S.D.—With most of South Dakota’s hunting seasons closed, hunters should be taking extra precautions to make sure that their firearms are stored safely.

HURON, S.D.-- Outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to experience the outdoors for the first time will come together to experience interactive exhibits and activities at the S.D. Outdoor Expo on May 17-18 in Huron on the S.D. State Fairgrounds.