October 26, 2016

Pheasant hunt planned for area’s veterans

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- For the first time, veterans from throughout the region will be able to enjoy a controlled pheasant hunt courtesy of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Veteran Adventures.

The inaugural pheasant hunt is set for Dec. 3 and all active-duty military personnel, post-9/11 veterans and members of the National Guard and Reserves are welcome to participate. Each veteran will have the opportunity to harvest two pheasants. Local sportsmen will provide dogs to assist with the hunt.

The pheasant hunt takes place at Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park, alongside Rend Lake and near Benton. Participants must be at the park by 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 3 and may ride a free shuttle to the site from Touch of Nature Environmental Center, located about eight miles south of Carbondale on Giant City Road. The shuttle will leave at 6 a.m.

To register for the hunt, or for more information, contact Shane Brady at 618/453-1122, ext. 220, or by email at shanebrady6@siu.edu. The event is limited to the first 10 veterans to sign up so people are encouraged to call as soon as possible.

Touch of Nature Environmental Center and SIU Veteran Services created the Veteran Adventures program in support of the service and sacrifice of military personnel and veterans and to offer them opportunities to enjoy challenging and adventurous activities together.

To learn more about the various programs, facilities and services of Touch of Nature, visit www.ton.siu.edu, call 618/453-1121 or email tonec@siu.edu