CONSERVATION CORNER
August 14, 2006
Fish And Wildlife Expo Slated For August 25-27
by James L. Cummins

The seventh annual Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Expo will be held on August 25 27 at the Forrest County Multi Purpose Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. For 3 days anglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts can get the latest information and equipment on their favorite outdoor activity. The Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Expo is hosted by Wildlife Mississippi.

William J. Van Devender, President of Wildlife Mississippi, stated, "We are expecting a crowd of more than 10,000 people to attend for the wide array of outdoor equipment, supplies and services, all at the right prices. The whole family can have a great time. Proceeds from the Expo will go to fish and wildlife conservation projects throughout Mississippi."

The Expo will feature approximately 100 exhibitors selling hunting gear, boats, ATVs, RVs, tree stands, game calls, fishing supplies, wildlife art, outdoor apparel, ladies gifts, game calls, guided trips, kids exhibits and much more. Conservation agencies will be on hand to answer your most difficult questions.

According to Van Devender, "Everyone who loves the outdoors will find something of interest at the Expo."

One of the top attractions this year will be The Ultimate Shootout Archery Trailer. It is a 40 foot long, mobile, indoor archery range, wrapped in Mossy Oak Break up Camouflage that opens up to reveal a 3 D forest setting with life like targets. People can watch the action through the glass panels, or take part in a professional archery lesson. It is for all ages and there are bows that can accommodate just about anyone. "Women and kids are the best because they realize they can easily shoot a bow. It's not just for Dad. Women tend to have a natural ability and are more accurate," stated Hans Saunders, a member of The Ultimate Shootout Archery Trailer's pro staff. The Ultimate Archery Shootout Trailer is free to all attendees of the Expo.

In addition, there will be activities for the whole family. There will helicopter rides, a laser shooting simulator and a climbing wall for the children. There will be seminars Saturday and Sunday ranging from cooking wild game and fish, falconry and snakes. For a complete schedule of the seminars and events, go to www.wildlifemiss.org.

Show Hours are: August 25, Friday, 3 pm 9 pm; August 26, Saturday, 10 am 8 pm; August 27, Sunday, 12 pm 5 pm. Admission is: Under Six Free; Six to Twelve $4.00; Adults $6.00. Anyone bringing a can good to the Expo for Wildlife Mississippi's "Hunt Against Hunger" program can receive $1.00 off of the admission price (limit one per attendee). All can goods will be donated to needy families.