Hunting Resources @ your library

By Hilery Walker, Community Relations Coordinator

September 21, 2005

As the nights turn cool and the trees show those first signs of yellow, you can sense that something big is about to begin – hunting season! As you prepare to strike out into the Wyoming wilderness in search of that deer, turkey, moose or other game, drop by your Natrona County Public Library and check out some of our many hunting resources. From books and movies filled with tips to hone your hunting skills to topo maps of Wyoming’s remotest areas, a visit to your library could ensure the success of your hunting trip.

Whether this is your first year out or you are a seasoned sportsman, NCPL has a number of materials to help you brush up on your hunting knowledge. Field and Stream’s “The Complete Hunter” covers numerous topics including choosing your hunting gear, keeping your guns safe and clean and tracking game. There are also a number of books on hunting specific game, such “Wild Turkeys: Hunting and Watching,” by John Mettler, Jr., D.V.M, “The Ultimate Guide to Deer Hunting,” by David Richey and “The Elk Hunter,” by Don Laubach and Mark Henckel. Bowhunters will find a variety of materials as well, including “Bowhunters’ Digest’s Advanced Tactics” and Lamar Underwood’s “Bowhunting: Tactics of the Pros.” If you don’t have time to read, check out one of our many hunting videos, such as “Backcountry Bulls,” “Predators: Tooth and Nail” and ”Advantage Adventures.”

While you are at the library, be sure to take a look at the Game and Fish display (now through September 30) in the atrium at north side of the building. With information on hunting and boating safety, grizzly and black bear identification, hunting and fishing on private lands and much more, the display offers an insightful look at the many aspects that effective wildlife management encompasses.

Your library also has a variety of materials to help ensure you stay safe during your hunting trip. Take a look at our selection of topo maps, which can help you scout out your hunting area well in advance. If your orienteering skills are a little rusty, check out “Wilderness Navigation: Finding You Way Using Map, Compass, Altimeter, & GPS,” by Bob and Mike Burns, for a quick refresher. And don’t forget to prepare for a chance encounter with a grizzly bear. “Bear Aware,” which is published by A Falcon Guide, has in-depth information on identifying bears and how to protect yourself if you meet one. If disaster does strike while you are on the trail, a sound knowledge of first aid is important. “Wilderness Medical Society: Practice Guidelines for Wilderness Emergency Care” is an excellent resource for most outdoor medical emergencies.

As you gear up to enjoy one of Wyoming’s great livelihoods, make sure you are well prepared with a trip to your Natrona County Public Library.

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