Jim Fornetti gives an entertaining and informative demonstration on trapping weasels and squirrels at last year’s workshop. (Photo courtesy of Mike Lewis)

HERMANSVILLE – Youngsters attending the 21st Annual Young Trappers Workshop on Saturday, Feb. 7 will have the opportunity to win prizes, gain some education and have fun.

Doors open at 8:00 a.m. at the Community Center at W5480 First St. in Hermansville.

The event strives to impart as much learning as possible. Kids can examine, touch and feel tanned furs and try to guess the name of the corresponding animal. They can view the skull display and try to match it to the correct furbearer by pressing a button to light up the right answer. Free trapping magazines and literature are available.

But the real learning takes place at the demonstrations by expert trappers: John Gunville, with 58 years of experience; Jeremy Lundin, who has 40 years of experience; and Jim Fornetti, with over 20 years of experience. The trappers will be covering raccoons, mink, muskrats, squirrels and weasels — also called ermine. Likely 50 or so experienced trappers are expected to attend, many of whom would be willing to sit down with a kid or adult seeking deeper knowledge on trapping a specific animal. By stopping at the the front desk, an interested person may ask if there is anyone present that might be able to help with beaver, coyote, bobcat or any other target animal.

Barnes Hide and Fur will be selling trapping supplies and buying furs and deer hides. Someone selling furs or needing supplies may call Trevor Barnes so he can explain what furs he will be buying and how they must be prepared. When a customer orders ahead, Barnes can bring the needed supplies with him as he won’t be bringing his entire inventory to this event. Barnes can be reached at 269-967-4475.

Food is available for purchase.

Every youngster goes home with a free trapping kit of his or her choice: mink, muskrat, raccoon, or weasel. The weasel kit can also be used for squirrels. More information may be found by visiting www.uptrappers.com or calling Mike Lewis at 906-774-3592.