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

The winner will receive a lifetime California hunting license valued at more than $600.

Junior hunting license holders or youths under 16 who earned a hunter education certificate in 2014 are eligible. Contestants need to submit an essay of 500 words or less on what Passing on the Tradition of hunting means to them. Applicants are encouraged to write about conservation, sportsmanship, ethics and the challenge of being a hunter in modern times.

Entries must include the applicant’s name, date of birth and a contact telephone number. Entries should be submitted via email to Lt. John Nores at john.nores@wildlife.ca.gov. All entries must be received before Dec. 19.

For additional information, call Lt. John Nores at 408.591.5174.