JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Several clubs in North Dakota are encouraging women to get out and take part in the variety of hunting opportunities this fall.

In a recent Pheasants Forever article, it’s reported that there has been a steep drop in hunters nationwide from 13.7 million to 11.5 million.

“While these numbers are a cause for concern, one highlight of the report was the number of women hunters in the nation which remained steady at nearly 11 percent,” the organization stated. “As vital contributors to conservation, more women involved with hunting equals more license sales and future investments through the Pittman-Robertson Act, funneling 11 percent of sales tax on all firearms, ammunition, and other sporting accessories back to states for strengthening public access and wildlife populations.”

Two women only hunts have been planned in North Dakota with one being held locally by the Stutsman County Wildlife Federation.

Member Cathleen O’Higgins says ladies are encouraged to visit their Facebook page for more details on the October 14th hunt.

“In addition to our habitat conservation mission, Pheasants Forever remains a national leader for tackling the issues of hunter recruitment, retainment, and reactivation,” stated Rachel Bush, state coordinator for Pheasants Forever in North Dakota. “We’ve identified a percentage of women in North Dakota who wish to connect with the land and know where their food comes from; Pheasants Forever can bridge this connection by offering upland hunting opportunities for interested females.”

Photo: Pheasants Forever