I've taken 5 elk through the AHE program, and my season this year doesn't end until 2-28-06. I have been in it for about 8 years now, and I really enjoy it. I have worked on a number of projects involving nest boxes, streamside reforestation, elk collaring (radio transmitters), and most recently opening up access on the Wynoochee River for bank fishermen. I also could hunt Saturday on private property on the Columbia River for Geese if I didn't have to help put on the Ducks Unlimited Banquet in Aberdeen that day.

You either take, or give something back. The hunts are a bit of a bonus for giving something back, and I have made the best of some challenging hunts, and also met a number of very good friends in the process.

The volunteer hours are a snap for me because I volunteer about 20 hours each year raising funds for DU, plus the other projects I get involved in.