The California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the California Wildlife Officers Foundation are again co-sponsoring the annual Passing on the Tradition essay contest for young hunters.

The grand-prize winner will receive a lifetime California hunting license that is valued at more than $600. Second and third place winners will also be selected and prize packages will be awarded.

This year’s topic is how hunting has influenced or affected the person’s life.

The contest is open to all junior hunting license holders, as well as youths under 18 who have earned a hunter education certificate.

Essays should be 500 words or less. Email them to john.nores@wildlife.ca.gov by Dec. 15 at 5pm. On the essay, applicants must also provide their date of birth, place of residence and a contact telephone number and email address.

The winners will then be notified by telephone. For additional information, contact John Nores at 408.591.5174.