The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and California Wildlife Officer Foundation are again co-sponsoring the annual “Passing on the Tradition” essay contest for young hunters. The grand prize winner will receive a lifetime hunting license, valued at more than $600.

This year’s contest invites entrants to share their thoughts about how hunting has positively influenced or affected their life.

“Today’s youth hunters are the conservationists of the future,” said CDFW Hunter Education Program Administrator Capt. Robert Pelzman. “We are looking forward to hearing about the lessons they’ve learned in the field that have made the strongest impressions upon them, and in what ways hunting has benefited them.”

The contest is open to all junior hunting license holders, as well as youths under 18 who have earned a hunter education certificate. Entrants should submit an essay of 500 words or less.

The California Wildlife Officer Foundation will recognize one grand prize winner with a lifetime California hunting license. Second and third place winners will also be selected and prize packages will be awarded.

Entries should be submitted via email to Capt. Robert Pelzman at robert.pelzman@wildlife.ca.gov no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 14, 2018. Applicants must provide their date of birth and a contact telephone number.

Essays will be reviewed and scored by CDFW wildlife officers and other CDFW representatives. The winners will be notified by telephone.

For additional information, please contact Capt. Pelzman at (916) 653-9727.

AWARD CEREMONY: The grand prize will be awarded during a special ceremony at the International Sportsmen’s Exposition (ISE) in Sacramento, January 17-20, 2019.

To find a hunter education course or information about becoming a Hunter Education Instructor, please visit www.wildlife.ca.gov/hunter-education.