Touch of Nature Center plans to host archery hunts for those with disabilities

Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Touch of Nature Environmental Center plans to host three archery hunts in November for those with disabilities.

The events include a Physically Challenged Bowhunters of America Deer Hunt Nov. 11-14, a National Wild Turkey Federation turkey and deer hunt Nov. 15-17 and an Illinois Department of Natural Resources deer hunt Nov. 29-Dec. 1.

People with a wide variety of disabilities will be able to hunt on Touch of Nature’s 3,100-acre site, located along Little Grassy Lake south of Carbondale.

The programs allow hunters to experience camaraderie with each other and participate in real hunts. Each hunter will have a partner to assist. 

Hunters will all be required to have current hunting permits and licenses and follow all federal and state guidelines.

The general public will be cautioned about visiting the experiential learning facility during these hunts and warning signs will be posted to assure the public’s safety and hunters’ privacy is protected.

The Physically Challenged Bowhunters of America Deer Hunt is co-sponsored by the non-profit organization and Touch of Nature. 

PCBA was founded in 1993 to help people with disabilities actively participate in bow hunting and archery sports.

The National Wild Turkey Federation and the Illinois Wheelin’ Sportsmen are cosponsoring the second hunt, which gives people with disabilities an opportunity to hunt turkey and deer.

The final hunt, an archery deer hunt, is cosponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Chapter of Safari Club.

For more information about any of the hunts, contact Vicki Lang at Touch of Nature Environmental Center at 618-453-1121 or by email at vickil@siu.edu.