FRANKFORT — It often seems harder each year to find the right gift for a family member or friend, especially if it is a spouse or a parent.

They seem to have everything they need and a gift card from a favorite retailer seems a cop out. Several items from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources make excellent Christmas gifts for an outdoors enthusiast.

“Consider purchasing a one-year membership in the Kentucky Wild program as a Christmas gift,” said Laura Burford, Kentucky Wild Coordinator. “Any of the Kentucky Wild membership levels make great gifts.”

Kentucky Wild helps power conservation efforts for Kentucky’s vulnerable wildlife species. “Each membership level has different gear such as t-shirts, bandanas, tote bags and tumblers. Members at all levels may be selected for wildlife experiences such as going out in the field with biologists from Kentucky Fish and Wildlife,” Burford said. “Memberships purchased now are good through December 2019.”

Those buying memberships must provide some basic information on the Kentucky Wild webpage on the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov. Click on the “Wildlife” tab, followed by the “Kentucky Wild” tab.

The summer conservation camps conducted by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife teach kids in grades 4 through 6 some of the basic essentials of the outdoors such as nature, archery, boating, outdoor survival, fishing and casting as well as firearm safety. Campers can earn their Kentucky Hunter Education certificate while attending conservation camp.

The Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation offers a chance to buy a conservation camp registration for a family member or sponsor a camper from a family in need. Visit their webpage at kentuckywildlife.com and click on the “Camp” tab for more information.

Anyone who hunts or fishes needs valid licenses and permits. The Kentucky Sportsman’s License at $95 covers every license and permit needed by an outdoors enthusiast, except the Federal Duck Stamp for hunting waterfowl. This license is a $67 savings over buying these licenses and permits separately. This is a fantastic gift for the enthusiastic hunter and angler.

For the hunter or angler on your list who does not do everything, a $42 resident combo hunting and fishing license saves $8 over buying both of these licenses separately. Most department stores, county court clerk offices, tackle shops and outdoor sporting goods stores sell licenses. You may also visit the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov and click on the “Buy Licenses” tab or call 1-877-598-2401 to purchase licenses. You can also purchase gift certificates at the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website and let the recipients decide for themselves.

These useful gifts bring appreciation from those who receive them and make excellent choices for those yet to make up their mind.