PRATT - Two special spring turkey hunts will be conducted in the scenic Flint Hills region of the state, near Council Grove Reservoir. These hunts are an effort to enhance opportunities for disabled hunters and women hunters.

The disabled sportsman hunt will be held on Saturday, April 9, during the disabled and youth special season. The hunt for women will be held on Saturday, April 23, during the second weekend of the regular spring turkey season.

These special hunts, coordinated by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in cooperation with area chapters of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Quail Unlimited, Ducks Unlimited, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, seek to encourage potential and existing hunters to enter the woods in search of a spring gobbler.

"These hunts are an outreach to these two groups so that they may have the opportunity to hunt spring turkeys," said Brent Konen, hunt coordinator and Council Grove Wildlife Area manager. "The sponsoring groups of these events have recognized that without some assistance from enthusiastic mentors and volunteers, disabled hunters and women outdoor enthusiasts may never participate in hunting or may discontinue hunting if someone isn't there to show them the way. These events are designed to pair these hunters with volunteers that have a willingness to share their knowledge."

Although designed for beginning or novice hunters, these events are available to hunters of all experience levels. Participating hunters will be guided to locations on public and private land. Program volunteers will arrange transportation to hunting sites and will assist in the hunt. Each event will also include door prizes, a turkey hunting presentation, and a hunter's breakfast and lunch.

Registration is required before April 1. Persons interested in learning more about these special hunts can contact Konen at 620-767-5900.