The Westar Energy Green Team will host rifle deer hunts for youths with little or no deer hunting experience. Hunts will be conducted at Jeffrey Energy Center, located seven miles north of St. Marys, Kansas during the early firearm deer season; November 30 through December 11. Youths 12 and older are invited to apply.

Each young hunter must be accompanied by an adult mentor to participate. Hunts will be in the early morning or late afternoon. A limited number of slots will be awarded to applicants on a first-come, first-served basis with priority to those with little or no deer hunting experience. Hunting will be done from blinds, and participants will be led by volunteer, experienced hunters.

Hunters are encouraged to bring their own rifle, but one can be provided if needed. Every hunter must have a Unit 9 deer permit from the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Hunters 16 and older must also possess a hunting license and hunter education certificate. An orientation session will be on Saturday, Nov. 19. Organizers will instruct on safety, deer biology and assist youth with sighting in rifles.

The Green Team’s annual youth deer hunts are designed to encourage youths interested in learning about hunting to give it a try. The hunts provide safe and fun hunting experiences in an area where the odds of success are high due to the abundance of deer. Applications will be accepted through Friday, Nov. 4 and successful hunters will be notified by November 11. To apply, please contact Barb Cornelius at 785.575.8125.