If you plan on applying for a deer hunt, or other game such as bighorn sheep and turkey the deadline is nearing.

From AZGF:

Fall 2008 Draw Information

The next deadline day for the submission of hunt permit-tag applications for fall 2008 hunts for deer, turkey, javelina bighorn sheep, buffalo is Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at 7 p.m. (MST). Remember, postmarks don’t count. The online application process will not be available.

Visit their website at: http://www.azgfd.gov/eservices/draw.shtml

Recently, I posted a story on the TIME Initiative here in Arizona. Arizona Sportsmen for Wildlife has recently responded to some of the press that has been publicized out there.

From AZSFW:

“The TIME Initiative was filed with the Secretary of State on May 6 at 4:52 PM. Since that time

several articles have been written about the pros and cons of the Initiative including two articles

authored by Christian Palmer of Arizona Capitol Times “Controversial Deals Raise Questions About

TIME Initiative” and “Hunting Lobby Secures TIME Money”. Mr. Palmer’s articles, in part, were in

response to the most recent Editor’s Commentary in The Sportsmen’s Connection about AZSFW’s

role in the TIME Initiative.”

See the complete story at: http://www.arizonasportsmenforwildlife.org/Connections/connection_0528.pdf

The Tucson Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation invites you to attend the First Annual “Conservation Days” weekend, hosted in conjunction with Sportsman’s Warehouse on the weekend of May 31st & June 1st. This special event is designed to celebrate the meaning of “True Conservation” – and raise awareness of the actions of our conservation partners throughout the country. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has invited its conservation friends, and other outdoor-related groups, to showcase the great works that come from volunteerism, corporate partnership, and a love of America’s natural resources – that follows the vision of former President Teddy Roosevelt, one of the fathers of the conservation movement!

Together with Sportsman’s Warehouse, we’ve put together a major-league line up of conservation groups and organizations for you to explore:
• Safari Club International (SCI)
• National Wild Turkey Foundation (NWTF)
• Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society
• Arizona Wildlife Federation
• Arizona Antelope Foundation
• Muledeer Foundation
• Ducks Unlimited
• National Rifle Association (NRA)
• Department of Homeland Security – U. S. Border Patrol

These are just a sampling of the groups, organizations, and agencies that will be showcasing the good works they do and the role they play in enhancing our natural resources; protecting the ideals that are part of our American identity.

We are a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and enhancement of our wild places; we are accepting both monetary and merchandise tax-deductible donations for this event – help us educate and enhance the conservation ethic!
Contact Rick Selting @ (520) 444-0868 for more information

“A group representing thousands of Arizona’s hunters and anglers claimed victory after securing rights to a portion of money that would be generated by the proposed TIME transportation initiative.”

Recently, the Arizona Sportsmen for Wildlife for Conservation captured a portion of funding from the TIME initiative. If passed funding could lead to approximately 1.26 million dollars a year for the protection of wildlife and wildlife habitat.

See the full story at: http://www.azcapitoltimes.com/story.cfm?id=8725

Although the fall hunting season is fast approaching; it is still the offseason for most of us. During this time of year I like to go afield with camera in hand. I always carry a camera during my offseason antler and scouting trips, you never know what you may come across. It’s not that I need an excuse, but I do find myself in the woods more often if I have some motivation, and photography is that for me. Please take a look at my gallery at: http://gallery.drchoate.com/. I encourage you to get out and take a few photos as well.

Welcome to “About the Hunt!” For me, hunting is a year-round activity, and something that can be shared with friends and family. It includes all types of activities from actual hunts, to shed-antler hunting, through volunteering on conservation projects. In the coming months, and beyond I hope to share my hunting passion and experiences with all of you.