With the population growing, communities and sub-divisions popping up all over, and large land tract getting smaller and smaller, there is much concern about the future of hunting and shot-gunning. Luckily, there is a new youth program taking hold in our state. It is called the South Carolina Youth Shooting Foundation, or SCYSF. Young shooting enthusiasts can enjoy the fun of breaking targets, camaraderie, and having some good clean fun outdoors.

David Chesnutt is the chairman of the SCYSF and Rick Hemingway is the vice-chairman. These two men have been hard at work making this a fabulous opportunity for the children that are participating. Last year the State Championship had over 250 junior shooters!! This year they expect even more.

To help in the education of gun safety and hunting, The Department of Natural Resources has stepped in. It is recommended the kids take their hunter safety course and become certified. Once they do this, their entry fee is reduced by half. DNR agents are on hand during the tournaments and before each rotation to give a safety talk. They are very involved and give tremendous support.

This coming Saturday, January 16th, will be the first shoot of the season. It will be held at Harris Springs and there will be three rotations to accommodate all the shooters. Check out the web page for the SCYSF if you want to learn more. Our children are our future and this is getting them started in the right direction.