The Youth Bass Anglers Conservation School, Pennsylvania’s unique learning experience for young students with a passion for fishing and a thirst for warm-water fishery knowledge, will begin accepting registrations March 1.

Instruction will be offered Sunday through Thursday, July 16-20, on Lake Perez at the Pennsylvania State University’s Stone Valley Recreation Area. The school is sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Fish and Boat Commission.

The five-day/four-night program will address topics like fishery 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 also are planned.

The Youth Bass Anglers Conservation School is a cooperative effort by DCNR’s Bureau of State Parks, the PF&BC, PA Bass Federation Inc., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Pennsylvania State University and Marsh Creek Bass Club.

Application and enrollment will begin March 1, for students ages 14-17. Applicants must submit a written one-page essay addressing “What fishing means to me;” the importance of conservation; and why they want to attend the school, as well as a letter of recommendation from a teacher or close associate. A total of 20 students will be selected.

A $125 enrollment fee will be charged upon acceptance. Students are encouraged to seek organizational sponsorships through sporting, community or civic groups.

For enrollment applications and more details, visit the Youth Bass Anglers Conservation School webpage or contact Spring Reilly at 814-625-9369, or send email to: spreilly@state.pa.us .

2/24/2006