Bloomfield, Missouri - The 6th Annual Women's Rabbit Hunt was held on the grounds of the Gobbler Ridge Farms - Disabled Veterans Wildlife Facility located just southwest of Bloomfield, Missouri. The facility was established in 2012 when land owners, Alan Hedrick and Tom Love, made available the 120-acre tract of land to be utilized as a haven for disabled veterans.
Since that time many special guests and through the efforts of the Missouri Department of Conservation and local volunteers many successful events have been held on the grounds.
Two women from Cape Girardeau were treated to a rabbit hunt on Saturday, February 11th. It was a first-time experience for Krissi Dye and Rhonda Welker.
"I was honored to be able to spend the day at such a beautiful place with great people," commented Krissi Dye. "Thanks for everything Blaine, Alan, Caleb and especially Tom. This place is a little piece of heaven on earth."
The women, guided by Tom Love and Missouri Dept of Conservation Agent from Butler County, Caleb Pryor, walked through the wooded areas of the farm following the cues from Blaine Chappell's three beagles. Chappell is a longtime trainer and hunting enthusiast.
"It far exceeded my expectations! Tom has this wonderful place, and he allowed us the pleasure of hunting on the property. Blaine (and his son, Allen) brought his beautiful, well-trained beagles, and they would track the rabbits. It was like nothing I had ever been a part of. Caleb (the MDC Agent) was so friendly and wanted to make sure our time there was enjoyable," stated Rhonda Welker. Thank you, Dee Dee Dockins for setting Krissi Dye and myself up with such an amazing group of people. It was an amazing day, beautiful weather and just hanging out with my bestie!!! I'll never forget the experience!"
It was a great experience for all who participated.
Anyone interested in taking part in a future Women's Rabbit Hunt is asked to contact Outdoor Skills Specialist Dee Dee Dockins at (573) 290-5730.
Photo submitted by Tom Love. Shown in the photo from left to right are Tom Love, Caleb Pryor, Rhonda Welker, Krissi Dye, and Baline Chappell.
