Beginning in fall 2020, Rydell National Wildlife Refuge will open to archery deer hunting on 1,378 acres (Hunt Unit A). Hunt Unit A also will open to numerous upland game species, including ruffed grouse, ring-necked pheasant, gray (Hungarian) partridge, prairie grouse, wild turkey, snowshoe hare, cottontail and white-tailed jackrabbit, and gray and fox squirrel. Season dates and bag limits follow those of the state for archery deer and upland game hunting. Additionally, Hunt Unit A will open to mourning doves and woodcock, following the state seasons and bag limits. Hunting for ducks, geese, and coots will be allowed in Hunt Unit A for youth only, during the two-day Minnesota Youth Waterfowl Season, in early September. In addition to these new opportunities, the refuge will still host a special two-day mentored youth deer hunt in late October. Youth ages 12-15 are eligible to apply for this hunt. A total of 15 hunters are selected to participate each year and are required to be accompanied by an adult mentor, both during the hunt and a mandatory half-day orientation session held prior to the hunt. The refuge will also continue to host a special three-day accessible deer hunt for people with disabilities during mid-October. A total of 20 people are selected to participate in this hunt each year. For more information on the special deer hunts, contact the refuge manager at 218-687-2229 x16.