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Five hunters with disabilities and more than a dozen volunteers from the National Wild Turkey Federation, Delta Waterfowl, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control enjoyed a full day during the waterfowl hunt at Bombay Hook NWR, DE, on Jan. 4.
Photo: Steve Hillebrand/USFWS |
"I've Already Had a Great Day"
Second Annual Wheelin' Sportsmen Waterfowl Hunt (January 4, 2005)
For Mark Bogush, in a wheelchair since age 4, it was his first time hunting waterfowl. But as he was helped into the temporary blind in the winter wheat fields at Bombay Hook NWR, DE, he smiled, "I've already had a great day."
Five hunters with disabilities and more than a dozen volunteers from the National Wild Turkey Federation, Delta Waterfowl, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control enjoyed a full day during the Wheelin' Sportsmen waterfowl hunt on Jan. 4. "We have the land and the birds," said Refuge manager Terry Villanueva, "and thanks to the volunteers and the community, this day has been a tremendous success."
During the pre-dawn hours, area waterfowl guides, led by World Champion waterfowl caller Al Dager, arranged hundreds of Canada goose decoys, while the hunters awaited the chance to absorb the sights and sounds of waterfowl. Although only one hunter harvested the limit of two geese, the others each went home with one.
The waterfowl hunt was the result of a partnership with the Turkey Federation's Wheelin' Sportsmen program to create more opportunities for hunters with disabilities. Much the same program was held last year at Bombay Hook Refuge.
Event sponsor Bass Pro Shops provided the hunters with hats and duck calls they could use in the future while Delta Waterfowl supplied food, hats and pocket knives. Metal Masters of Smyrna, DE, loaned a universally accessible blind.
Press Release >>
For the second consecutive year, Bombay Hook NWR, DE, welcomed hunters with disabilities to a waterfowl hunt sponsored by the National Wild Turkey Federation Wheelin' Sportsmen program. The Refuge System is working to make its facilities universally accessible.
The Wheelin' Sportsman program provides activities for disabled individuals to enjoy the outdoors. Events can be tailored to the opportunities available at each location including hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and photography. Refuges interested in hosting an event should contact Martha Nudel, Division of Visitor Services & Communications, National Wildlife Refuge System, 703-358-1858.
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