CALDWELL- West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey made his way back to Greenbrier County on Monday, April 13 to speak at the Greenbrier State Forest.
After talking briefly about the tax cuts that were passed, Morrisey got right to the point on why he was back in the Greenbrier Valley.
“The purpose of today’s announcement is to officially kick in Spring Gobbler season,” Morrisey said.
“That officially kicks off April 20 and we know that’s really important time, especially for a lot of our kids,” he added.
The opportunity to take youth out for spring gobbler season is April 18 and 19.
“When you’re doing that, you’re going to know you’re preserving the West Virginia way,” Morrisey stated.
The governor gave his advice on those who are planning to head out in the field to take advantage of this hunting season.
“Take advantage of all the resources we have right here in our own back yard. Over 1.6 million acres of public hunting land spread across 96 wildlife management areas and our pristine national and state forest. And I think everyone knows there’s a lot of room for everyone in the woods, but we want everyone to be careful. Safety has to be paramount when it comes to hunting,” the Governor explained.
Hunters were encouraged to go get their 2026 license which can be obtained at WVhunt.com and while on the page, Morrisey would like hunters to get the physical, collectible license card which is a way to support the DNR and keep the wildlife areas in good order.
“God has granted us these amazing resources and we are very thankful for that,” Morrisey said.
Morrisey concluded his speech by passing over the microphone to Brett McMillion, the director of the WV DNR.
“The youth are our future. I challenge all turkey hunters out there to take a new hunter out. You’re not just giving up one of your days in the woods, you are preserving that rich heritage that we are so proud of in West Virginia.
McMillion echoed the same sentiments of safety and encouraged everyone to use the resources available for a safe and positive hunting season.
