Camp Ripley youth hunt ?

[ANYFISH2]

My brother in law called me minutes ago to ask how his son is to apply for the Camp Ripley youth hunt. We can not find it anywhere on the web site or on the electronic list licenses. I amagine you can at a ELS agent but I am confused as it isn't on the list as far as I can see. Can anyone help?

[22x]

Ok, now I think I added the attachements.

I attached (I think) the information I just received from the DNR regarding this hunt. Hope that helps.

I emailed the DNR, as I couldn't find anything on their web site.

I also have questions for anyone that has done this hunt before. Is there lodging available? When can you put up stands? Is there a mentor that hunts with the youth? How do you know where in to hunt or put up stands? I realize some of these questions would be answered if the youth is selected, but want to know what I'm getting into

Thanks

Doug

[ANYFISH2]

Thanks 22x, I am not sure about lodging. You are able to put stands up the day before and scout. The youth brings a parent/guardian/mentor to hunt/assist with(only youth can hunt, obviously). The hunt area has typicaly been the area north of Casino RD, northernmost 3rd of the installion. And yes you will recieve more info at the orintation the day before your hunt.

Thanks again, good luck.

[redlund]

When you are drawn you (the youth hunter) will receive an info packet.

The youth and nonhunting mentor will attend one of the orientation meetings on Friday or Saturday. After the meeting they can go to the hunting area and scout and hang stands but have to be to the check point at the given time. As far as lodging you can stay in the T-building (barracks)for a small fee, or camp where they do for the adult hunt. I would recommend the first meeting Friday morning to allow for the most scouting and you can take your time.

They usally serve supper Friday and Saturday night and breakfast Saturday and Sunday for free,(and its good). Hope this helps.

[22x]

Thanks redlund. Do you get a map of the area? we've never done this before....how do they keep people from sitting next to each other? Can you use a ground blind or is it better to get a couple of hang on stands?

Thanks

Doug

[redlund]

They have been putting maps in the orientation packet. I would use stands but there are some spots a ground blind will work (we have had some successful youth in them). I have been a volunteer since 2002 except for the 2 years I went with my daughter. You should have no problem finding a quality spot with no one around. I hope this helps and maybe see you there.

[Farm_Kid]

What times do they do the orientation meeting? My brother would love to apply but may have a conflict with high school football that kept him from applying last year also.

[Monkster]

My son, age 14, applied last night. For those that have gone before, or volunteers, what are the chances of getting drawn for a "first timer"?

Of course, trying to plan ahead a bit for work. Thanks

[ANYFISH2]

Monkster, considering the Arden Hills hunts have been nixed(I haven't heard, if that has changed) I think the number of applicants will go up Ripley so odds will go down but I would plan ahead as though you will be drawn. Easier to plan now and drop later than plan late. Good luck to you all the upcoming season.

[Monkster]

Thanks Anyfish, I was sort of leaning that way. Yes, that's too bad about the Arden Hills hunts. I never heard exactly why, just something about minors being on the property. If the Vikings stadium goes through, that's the end for sure. My son hunted there in 2009, didn't get a deer, but we both got to see a few deer and one giant that didn't quite present a shot.

[22x]

This thread has provided some good conversation! My son is going to apply. We will see what happens. I'm a little surprised that they expect kids to be taken out of school to attend the orientation, but I don't think mine will mind if he is drawn. Good luck to everyone!

[ANYFISH2]

Monkster, My understanding (very creditable source) is the PCA came to update thier agreement with National guard/Army and took core samples again. In the previous agreement, because of the lead levels in the soil, it was agreed that ADULTS/workers/soldiers could work and train there under those levels. However as time has passed the NG, DNR and the help of some bowhunting org's help create the opportunities for the youth to hunt there. PCA recently stonewalled the NG saying that the youth hunt was being held in violation for the previous agreement. As youth where never written in as being OK to be exposed to those levels of Lead found in the soil. So in turn they had to suspend/eliminate the youth hunts.

Now in my opinion I don't think these kids are licking the ground! I had heard they were working to OK the youth hunts with the PCA, It sounded like it was going to cost an exorbinate amount of money before that could happen. Now with the stadium deal who knows what will happen. I have hunted there myself, fun place for seeing deer thats for sure. Atleast we still have Ripley!

[Monkster]

Ah ha! It's good to hear the whole story. You're right, I don't think the kids spending that amount of time in there would affect them to any degree. Although, I don't blame them for suspending it in this "lawsuit" happy era.

I hope my son gets Ripley, should be a fun experience. Thanks for the info!