The Youth Hunting and Fishing Exchange Program embraces the heritage and culture of hunting and fishing in Atlantic Canada and encourages youth to become involved in conservation awareness. Through participation in programs like the Firearms Safety Hunter Education Course, young people, ages 12 to 17, can win an opportunity to experience other cultures and lifestyles involving hunting and fishing in the Atlantic Provinces.

"I want to congratulate Christopher and wish him all the best as he enjoys this wonderful opportunity," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation.

Christopher was chosen from more than 350 youth who participated in Newfoundland and Labrador�s Firearms Safety Hunter Education Course between July 2006 and June 2007.  In October, he will travel with his father, Cletus, to Prince Edward Island to participate in a Canada goose hunt sponsored by the Delta Waterfowl, Prince Edward Island Wildlife Federation and the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry.

"I wish Christopher and his father a very safe and successful hunting trip as they visit Prince Edward Island and learn about other hunting practices and traditions," said Minister Jackman. "I encourage more of our youth to get involved in outdoor activities and to ensure that conservation of our wildlife resources remains a priority."

The winner was drawn by Prince Edward Island exchange winner, 13-year-old Adam MacLeod and his aunt Heather MacLeod. Adam and Heather visited Newfoundland�s west coast in July and enjoyed a three-day salmon fishing trip on the Humber River.  Accommodations were provided by Big Falls Tourist Lodge.

The Atlantic Province�s Youth Hunting and Fishing Exchange Program is endorsed by the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. "The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to partner with the other Atlantic provinces," said the minister. "This program recognizes and highlights the importance of involving youth in all outdoor activities and the role our youth play in helping to conserve wildlife for the future."

Minister Jackman added his thanks to the volunteers and sponsors for their involvement and support of this very important initiative. Sponsors for this year�s exchange program include the Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association, Newfoundland Sportsman Magazine, Universal Helicopters Limited, Newfoundland and Labrador Conservation Officers Association, St. John�s Rod and Gun Club, Complete Gun Repairs, Barnes Sporting Goods, and Big Falls Tourist Lodge.

For more information about the Atlantic Province�s Youth Hunting and Fishing Exchange Program, visit www.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/edu-train/index.htm  or contact Chris Baldwin, Wildlife Division, at 709-637-2020.

Photo #1: Minister Jackman travelled to Baie Verte to present Christopher with his prize. Left to right: Cletus Kennedy (father), Minister Clyde Jackman, Christopher Kennedy (winner) and Robert Hussey, Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association.

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