The Youth Bass Anglers Conservation School is inviting students 14 to 17 interested in fishing and learning about warm-water fisheries to apply for the 2005 program.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission announced they will begin to accept enrollments March 1.

The five-day/four-night program will be July 17, through July 21, on Lake Perez at Pennsylvania State University’s Stone Valley Recreation Area.

The Youth Bass Anglers Conservation School is a cooperative effort by DCNR’s Bureau of State Parks, the PFBC, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Pennsylvania State University, Marsh Creek Bass Club and the Pennsylvania Chapter, Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.).

Study topics will include fish biology, fisheries management, habitat improvement, boating safety, fishing skills and techniques, fish and boating law enforcement, fisheries and conservation careers and tournament angling. Other conservation-related and hands-on activities are also planned.

Student applicants must submit a written essay on the topics, “What fishing means to me,” and the importance of conservation, as well as a letter of recommendation from a teacher or close associate. A total of 20 students will be selected.

A $100 enrollment fee will be charged upon acceptance. Enrollment applications and more details can be obtained from Spring Reilly at 814-625-9369, by e-mail at spreilly@state.pa.us.

2/25/2005