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SCOTLAND COUNTY, Mo. – Hunters have long been leaders in conservation, helping Missouri develop regulations, improve habitat, and manage wildlife populations. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites migratory and upland bird hunters to hone their skills at an effective wingshooting clinic from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Lake Show-Me Shooting Range in Memphis. The workshop is free, but registration by Sept. 25 is required.
Participants will learn about wounding rates in waterfowl and performance differences of nontoxic vs. lead shot. Additionally, the clinic will cover how to select the best ammunition and choke for game birds and hunting conditions, how to sharpen shotgun shooting skills including improving range and target distance estimation, shotgun patterning, and how to pick the best load for your gun.
"This workshop is an excellent opportunity for hunters to learn how to use nontoxic shot effectively and with confidence, which can reduce wounding loss, especially while waterfowl hunting," said MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist Rob Garver. "In addition to boosting your wingshooting performance and range estimation skills, the Effective Wingshooting for the Hunter workshop can help you save money on expenses. Fewer wasted shells mean more money in your pocket!"
The workshop will also help migratory and upland bird hunters improve their wingshooting skills, including effective use of shotgun shells with non-toxic alternatives to lead shot, such as steel shot. Lead is the most common material used in shotgun ammunition. Because lead shot has been found to poison waterfowl and eagles that feed on waterfowl, federal law requires duck and goose hunters to use nontoxic alternatives to lead shot.
Hunters should bring their shotguns, choke tubes and non-toxic ammunition if they wish to pattern their guns or practice skills. Also, they will need to bring eye and ear protection for use on a shooting range, and a stool or chair. Clay targets and non-toxic 12 and 20 gauge practice ammunition will be available.
This program is open to adults age 18 or over. To register, visit http://huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/events/view/934586 or contact Garver at 660-785-2420 or email Rob.Garver@mdc.mo.gov.
