An underlying theme of getting youth involved in outdoors greeted customers who came out this weekend to Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply.
The store hosted its 16th annual Wildlife Appreciation and Conservation Days Friday and Saturday. Manager Bruce Burenheide says they’re happy to continue the tradition.
Burenheide says one young boy, 11-year-old Marko from Dodge City (see above photo) touched a lot of hearts Friday evening when he stopped by.
More than two dozen vendors were set up inside Bluestem pitching products and encouraging youth involvement. Among them, the Kansas chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Spokesman Gib Rhodes says they have a host of activities they plan each year involving kids.
In addition, kids had the opportunity to learn how to shoot a bow and arrow. Kansas Bowhunters spokesman Bob Griffin says seeing kids pick up a bow for the first time is what it’s all about. Those kids will play a central role in the future of Kansas conservation efforts and Griffin says the youth involvement is growing thanks to efforts in the public schools.
The two-day event featured a number of prizes including the grand-prize Thompson center-fire rifle. Photos from both days can be found below.
Photos by Brandon Peoples/KVOE News
{gallery}Wildlife Appreciation and Conservation Days Sept. 8 2018{/gallery}
Photos courtesy Phil Taunton/Fishing’s Future, KVOE contributor
{gallery}Wildlife Appreciation and Conservation Days – Sept. 7 2018{/gallery}
