Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

OLYMPIA, Washington --(Ammoland.com)- The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will accept enrollment applications for its Master Hunter Permit program from Jan. 1 through Feb. 15.

WDFW enlists master hunters for controlled hunts to remove problem animals that damage property or threaten public safety. Master hunters also participate in volunteer projects involving access to private lands, habitat enhancement, and landowner relations.

To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate a high level of hunting skill and demonstrate a commitment to lawful and ethical hunting practices, said Sgt. Carl Klein, manager of the WDFW Hunter Education Division.

“This program was designed to create a pool of highly qualified hunters who can help the department manage wildlife in sensitive situations,” Klein said. “This is a great opportunity for conscientious, committed hunters to assume a leadership role among their peers.”

Hunters enrolling in the program must pay a non-refundable $50 application fee, pass a criminal background check, pass a written exam and meet other qualifications described on the Master Hunter website ( http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/masterhunter/ ). The application form is also available on that website.

Klein encourages hunters who enroll in the program to prepare thoroughly for the written test, because applicants are allowed only one chance to re-take the exam.

Those who successfully complete the enrollment process will receive a master hunter patch and identification card, and will be eligible to participate in depredation hunts.

Global Outfitters TV and Website Bring Outdoor Education into the Home

Global Outfitters TV

Huntsville, AL --(Ammoland.com)- Adults and youth alike find learning outdoor skills quick, easy and fun by watching Global Outfitters TV and visiting the GlobalOutfitters.com website.

Sam Hall, CEO of Global Outfitters, states it best, “There are hundreds of people in the U.S. who do not have a favorite uncle who is a master hunter, angler or outdoor chef. In short, they have no one to teach them outdoors skills.

There are hundreds of youngsters who have no one experienced in woodsmanship to mentor them in outdoor education. There are hundreds of men and women who have some level of outdoor skills, but want somewhere to go to advance their skill level. Global Outfitters designed its TV show and website for these three groups of people.

Not only does Global Outfitters TV and website teach outdoor skills, but we are the link between adventure outfitters and the outdoor enthusiast. We are a full-service outdoor network.”

Global Outfitters TV airs on the Pursuit Channel to all Direct TV and Dish Network subscribers Friday nights at 8 p.m. EST and Tuesday mornings at 7:30 a.m. EST. It brings solid outdoor instruction from industry professionals on such skills as archery, dog training, shooting, hunting, fishing, game calling, wildlife habitat and more. Also, the fast-moving programming connects outdoor enthusiasts to featured professional outfitters who can provide a fun place to go to use their outdoor skills. According to Hall, “This is a first-ever television connection of the end user with the recreation provider — a win-win for both.”

Realizing that a TV program cannot provide all the information and instruction wanted by the outdoor enthusiast, Global Outfitters developed a website, www.globaloutfitters.com, that continues the outdoor education started on television and takes it into much more detail with articles by nationally known outdoorsmen such as John E. Phillips, Richard Mann, Kevin Reese, Bob Humphrey, Rick Flippen and J. Wayne Fears.

How to enjoy the outdoors at a higher level is stressed, as is where to go to enjoy the outdoors, and how youngsters can become a part of the outdoor scene. Globaloutfitters.com is rapidly becoming the website to go to if anyone wants to become skilled in the outdoors or is looking for an outfitter to take him or her on an outdoor adventure.

Global Outfitters is changing the face of outdoor education by teaching on TV and on the web, and bringing the best of outdoor education into the home.

The Global Outfitters Show is co-hosted by notable teachers including Bryon Ferguson and Dr. Warren Strickland on GO Archery, Terry Hetrick and Chris Reed on GO Shooting, Rick Flippen on GO Gundog, Jim Martin on GO Game Calls and J. Wayne Fears on GO Habitat.

For more information, check out www.globaloutfitters.com, or email info@globaloutfitters.com or call 256-585-1677.

New Video Game Available At Hunter-Ed.Com

Kalkomey Enterprises

New computer video game allows students to learn for free about safety and ethics before taking online hunter safety course

A new video game at www.hunter-ed.com helps students learn how to make decisions about when to pass on a shot for big game and what situations provide safe, ethical shooting opportunities. This educational video game, which students can play for free, allows the learning process to begin before taking the online hunter safety course at hunter-ed.com.

A variety of shoot/don’t shoot scenarios are presented that students can act on using their computer’s shift key to acquire the target or the space bar to pass on the shot. The game teaches students the fundamentals about safe zones of fire and shot placement in a way that’s fun and engaging.

“With this shoot or don’t shoot game, Kalkomey is beginning an exciting push into activity-based learning,” said Edward Cossette, user experience manager for Kalkomey. “The feedback students receive from playing this online video game is based on decisions they make. The benefit is students attend to individualized feedback more closely, which results in better long-term retention of key hunter safety concepts.”

After playing the game, students can learn more hunter safety skills for free at www.hunter-ed.com. Students who must receive their hunter education certification to obtain a hunting license pay a one-time fee, which is due only if they pass the test. Students can take the test as many times as they need to pass it.

After passing the exam at hunter-ed.com, students should immediately print out a field day qualifier certificate, which admits them to a field day in their state (if applicable). Many states require students to pre-register for their field day, so hunter education coordinators advise students to visit their state wildlife agency website to sign up for a field day before they take the online course.

The contents at hunter-ed.com are developed in conjunction with the state agency responsible for hunter education. Students who use hunter-ed.com will study the same content used in classroom courses. This online course is offered in more than 30 states, so students are encouraged to visit www.hunter-ed.com to find a course customized for their state.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- With small game seasons underway and big game seasons just around the corner, Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe said the agency is scheduling more basic Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE) courses for October and November so all new hunters can complete this mandatory course to be eligible to participate in the upcoming fall hunting seasons.

“Time is running out for those who have not yet passed a basic Hunter-Trapper Education course,” Roe said.

“Procrastination sometimes gets the better of us, but becoming certified through a basic Hunter-Trapper Education course is mandatory for all first-time license buyers, regardless of age.

“While we have been holding courses all summer, we have found that some people wait until autumn is officially here to begin making plans for the hunting seasons. To meet this need, we scheduled additional courses throughout the state, and they have been filling up fast. So now is the time to register for a course if you want to be eligible to hunt for the first time this season.”

Roe noted that after the courses are completed in November, the agency won’t begin a new slate of Hunter-Trapper Education classes until early in 2012.

To register for a course in your area, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), clicking on the “Hunter Education Classes” icon in the center of the homepage and then clicking on either “Hunter-Trapper Education” or “Hunter-Trapper Education Independent Study.”

With the support of thousands of volunteer instructors and organizations that host classes, HTE courses are being held throughout the state. There is no fee for the basic HTE course. Pre-registration is required and online registration is available for all courses offered by the agency.

Taught by dedicated teams of trained volunteers, most HTE classes last at least 10 hours over two or more days, and participants must attend all instruction before taking the test at the end of the course. Youngsters must be at least 11 years old to receive HTE certification.

Successful completion of a basic Pennsylvania HTE class, or another state’s equivalent course, is required by state law to obtain a first-time hunting or furtaker license, regardless of age.

Registrations also are being accepted for the independent-study version of the basic HTE program, which is available for those 11 years of age or older. The independent study course requires students to attend a two- to three-hour class to be tested and certified. Prior to this classroom test, however, students must study the entire course content on their own, which takes about eight to 10 hours to complete. Study guides are available online from the registration page or, to request a print version of “Today’s Hunter & Trapper in Pennsylvania,” call the Hunter-Trapper Education Division (717-787-7015) to request a study guide be mailed to you. There is a $1.59 postage fee for mailed study guides.

In 1959, the Game Commission began offering a voluntary hunter safety program, and about 25,000 students participated in that program annually. Beginning in 1969, the General Assembly required all first-time hunting license buyers under the age of 16 to successfully complete a four-hour hunter education course. The course requirement was expanded to six hours in 1977. The program became mandatory for all first-time hunting license buyers regardless of age in 1982.

Finally, in 1986, the safety program was increased to 10 hours of class time and trapper training was included. The name of the program also was changed to Hunter-Trapper Education, and was required for all first-time furtaker license buyers, too.

Since 1959, more than 1.8 million students have been certified through this course.

Kalkomey Enterprises

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Several of the state-specific hunter safety courses available at hunter-ed.com now offer a variety of new features designed to provide a high-quality educational experience that is easy and fun.

One feature that remains the same is students can study for free at www.hunter-ed.com, paying only when they pass their hunter certification exam.

The new version of hunter-ed.com offers an optional narration feature that allows students to listen, read or both. Exam questions also are read out loud and include illustrations to help students recall what they’ve learned.

“Our online hunter safety courses are designed to engage students with a combination of short text blocks and detailed illustrations and animations,” said Kurt Kalkomey, president of Kalkomey Enterprises Inc., parent company of hunter-ed.com. “Using this combination of teaching tools is much more effective at helping students understand the material than reading long pages of text. Plus, they can study the material at hunter-ed.com at their convenience.”

The following state-specific courses were revamped to include features such as narration and illustrated exam questions:

• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Louisiana
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Colorado
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Kansas
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Michigan
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Maryland
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/NewHampshire
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Texas
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Mississippi
• http://www.hunter-ed.com/Nevada

Students who must receive their hunter education certification to obtain a hunting license pay a one-time fee, which is due only if they pass the test. Students can take the test as many times as they need to pass it.

After passing the exam at hunter-ed.com, students should immediately print out a field day qualifier certificate, which admits them to a field day in their state (if applicable). Many states require students to pre-register for their field day, so hunter education coordinators advise students to visit their state wildlife agency website to sign up for a field day before they take the online course.

The contents at hunter-ed.com are developed in conjunction with the state agency responsible for hunter education. Students who use hunter-ed.com will study the same content used in classroom courses. This online course is offered in more than 30 states, so students are encouraged to visit www.hunter-ed.com to find a course customized for their state.

About Kalkomey
Kalkomey Enterprises Inc., parent company of hunter-ed.com, is the official provider of recreational safety education materials for all 50 states. Our print and Internet courses have been providing official safety certification since 1995. We provide safety courses in boating, hunting, bowhunting, and off-road vehicle (ORV) and snowmobile operation. For more information, visit http://www.kalkomey.com/.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The Pennsylvania Game Commission is looking for experienced hunters and trappers who are interested in becoming volunteer instructors for the agency’s basic Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE), Successful Bowhunting, Successful Furtaking and Successful Turkey Hunting courses, as well as future courses under consideration.

“Becoming a volunteer instructor for the Game Commission is one way experienced hunters and trappers can help pass along our outdoors heritage to a new generation,” said Keith Snyder, Game Commission Hunter-Trapper Education Division chief.

“Becoming an instructor also is a fine way to help make a difference in your community and to do something to help improve the quality of our education and safety programs.

“If you’re an experienced hunter or trapper, and want to give something back, I encourage you to become a certified instructor for one or all of the agency’s education programs. Quality training is vitally important to ensuring these new, young hunters and trappers are both safe and responsible.”

Persons who wish to become instructors should be knowledgeable, experienced hunters and trappers, and be willing to teach at least one class per year. Classes are held at a variety of locations, such as sportsmen’s clubs, fire halls, schools and municipal buildings.

Instructors work with other volunteer instructors, WCOs and Deputy WCOs to plan and teach classes. Applicants need not be experts in every field of hunting and trapping. All teaching materials and detailed lesson plans are provided by the Game Commission.

All new instructors must have attended and completed a class, as a student, within the 18 months prior to or after submitting their application. Also, applicants must pass a background check, assist with at least one student-level class and attend a new instructor training workshop before being certified.

For more information about becoming an instructor, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) and select “Education,” then choose “Hunter Education” and then click on “Becoming an Instructor.” Individuals also can request an application packet online or by calling the agency’s Hunter-Trapper Education Division at 717-787-7015.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe said the agency is scheduling more basic Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE) courses for September and October so all new hunters can complete this mandatory course to be eligible to participate in the upcoming fall hunting seasons.

“With the fall seasons just around the corner, time is running out for those who have not yet passed a basic Hunter-Trapper Education course, which is mandatory for all first-time license buyers, regardless of age,” Roe said. “While we have been holding courses all summer, we have found that some people wait until autumn is officially here to begin making plans for the hunting seasons. To meet this need, we are scheduling nearly 50 additional courses throughout the state, so now is the time to register for a course.”

To register for a course in your area, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), click on the “Hunter Education Classes” icon in the center of the homepage and then clicking on either “Hunter-Trapper Education” or “Hunter-Trapper Education Independent Study.”

With the support of thousands of volunteers, HTE courses are being held throughout the state. There is no fee for the basic HTE course. Pre-registration is required and online registration is available for all courses offered by the agency.

Taught by dedicated teams of trained volunteers, most HTE classes last at least 10 hours over two or more days, and participants must attend all instruction before taking the test at the end of the course. Youngsters must be at least 11 years old to receive HTE certification.

Successful completion of a basic Pennsylvania HTE class, or another state’s equivalent course, is required by state law to obtain a first-time hunting or furtaker license, regardless of age.

Registrations also are being accepted for the independent-study version of the basic HTE program, which is available for those 11 years of age or older. The independent study course requires students to attend a two- to three-hour class to be tested and certified. Prior to this classroom test, however, students must study the entire course content on their own, which takes about eight to 10 hours to complete. Study guides are available online from the registration page or, to request a print version of “Today’s Hunter & Trapper in Pennsylvania,” call the Hunter-Trapper Education Division (717-787-7015) to request a study guide be mailed to you. There is a $1.59 postage fee for mailed study guides.

In addition, registrations are being accepted for other educational programs offered by the Game Commission, including Successful Bowhunting, Successful Furtaking and Cable Restraint Certification.

The Successful Bowhunting course is a one-day voluntary training program for those seeking to expand their skills and knowledge of bowhunting. While voluntary in Pennsylvania, certification for this course may be required by other states. There is an $20 course fee, which covers the cost of the online study course required before attending the class.

Successful Furtaking is a one-day training program that provides extensive hands-on training to new and experienced furtakers. The course promotes Best Management Practices and is designed for any person seeking to learn more about furtaking and to improve his or her skills and success. The course includes the cable restraint certification that is required to participate in the cable restraint season for foxes and coyotes. This course also fulfills the requirement that all first-time furtaker license buyers pass a basic trapper education course. A $15 course fee is charged.

The Cable Restraint Certification course is required for those trappers seeking to participate in the annual trapping season in which cable restraints are used to capture coyotes and foxes. The course fee is $15, and students will get to keep various education materials and one legal cable restraint provided as part of the course.

The Successful Turkey Hunting course, which is designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in both spring and fall seasons, also is available to give first-time hunters a huge step toward bagging a bird. Veterans will learn methods and techniques that will make them a better hunter, too. Students will receive a 140-page student guide and a diaphragm turkey call as part of the program. Classes will start next spring and continue through the summer and early fall. A $15 fee is being charged to offset costs.

“We are planning to offer additional advanced courses in the future focusing on specific sporting arms and certain species-specific seasons, such as Successful Muzzleloading and Successful Upland Bird Hunting,” Snyder said. “We will be working with interested groups of sportsmen specializing in each of the areas to develop curriculum and solid hands-on training that will emphasize methods and techniques.”

In 1959, the Game Commission began offering a voluntary hunter safety program, and about 25,000 students participated in that program annually. Beginning in 1969, the General Assembly required all first-time hunting license buyers under the age of 16 to successfully complete a four-hour hunter education course. The course requirement was expanded to six hours in 1977. The program became mandatory for all first-time hunting license buyers regardless of age in 1982.

Finally, in 1986, the safety program was increased to 10 hours of class time and trapper training was included. The name of the program also was changed to Hunter-Trapper Education, and was required for all first-time furtaker license buyers, too.

Since 1959, more than 1.8 million students have been certified through this course.

New Mexico Game and Fish

ALBUQUERQUE, NM --(Ammoland.com)- Anyone with a hankering to fire a muzzleloader, tie a fishing fly, shoot a bow and arrow or learn dozens of other outdoor skills is invited to a free weekend of family fun Saturday and Sunday at the annual New Mexico Outdoor Expo at the Albuquerque Shooting Range Park.

The 10th annual event will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days at the park just east of Albuquerque. Activities will focus on education and safe family outdoor fun with hands-on experience and one-on-one expert instruction in shooting, fishing and more. Dozens of organizations, sporting clubs and other groups will be on hand to promote outdoor recreation and conservation.

“This is a great opportunity for the Department of Game and Fish, our volunteers and partners to show people how to safely enjoy the lifetime sports of hunting, fishing and shooting,” said Jennifer Morgan, the Department’s Hunter Education Program Coordinator. “We’re hoping families will come out and learn new ways to enjoy the outdoors.”

Certified instructors will show participants of all ages how to safely shoot .22 rifles and pistols, shotguns and muzzleloaders. Expert archers will provide hands-on instruction with bows and arrows, and experienced anglers will teach fly and spin casting, and show how to tie fishing flies that really catch fish. Other activities include a climbing wall, a fishing pool loaded with lunker catfish, and fishing demonstrations in a huge aquarium filled with New Mexico game fish.

Thinking of taking an off-highway vehicle out for a spin this year? Learn the rules of the road and how to safely operate an OHV on the Department’s OHV simulator.

To get to the Albuquerque Shooting Range Park from Albuquerque, take Interstate 40 west to the top of Nine-mile Hill, exit and drive 4.2 miles north on Atrisco Vista Boulevard (formerly Paseo del Volcan), turn left at the park sign and drive 2.6 miles to the shooting range.

For more information about the Expo, please call (505) 222-4731.

Take A Hunter Education Course At Hunter-Ed.com

DALLAS, TX --(Ammoland.com)- Even though most of the country is still in the grip of scorching temperatures, hunters already are thinking about early season hunting opportunities.

Taking a hunter safety course at hunter-ed.com or bowhunter-ed.com is a great way to prepare for bowhunting and early season dove, duck and goose hunting.

“Studying at hunter-ed.com and bowhunter-ed.com is free to the public and allows students to learn about hunter safety in the comfort of their home,” said Kurt Kalkomey, president of Kalkomey Enterprises, Inc.

“These days it’s a challenge to find a free weekend or multiple week nights to take the classroom hunter safety course. The hunter-ed.com and bowhunter-ed.com online courses save time and money and open up hunting opportunities for young and novice hunters.”

Students can take the first step toward receiving their hunter or bowhunter certification by successfully completing the online courses for hunter education or bowhunting. Those who must be certified before they can buy a hunting license pay a one-time fee, which is due only if they pass the test. Students can take the test as many times as they need to pass it. Online hunter safety and bowhunting education courses are available in participating states so students should visit hunter-ed.com or bowhunter-ed.com to take a course specific to their state.

After passing the exam at hunter-ed.com or bowhunter-ed.com, students should immediately print out a Field Day Qualifier Certificate, which admits them to a field day in their state (if applicable). Many states require students to pre-register for field days, so hunter education coordinators advise students to visit their state wildlife agency website to sign up. Field days typically include a skills trail, shooting exercises, ethics presentation, and a final hunter education exam.

The contents at hunter-ed.com are developed in conjunction with the state agency responsible for hunter education. Students who use hunter-ed.com will study the same content used in classroom courses.

Bowhunter-ed.com is the official online course of the National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) and is approved by all states requiring successful completion of a recognized bowhunter education course.

About Kalkomey
Kalkomey Enterprises, Inc. is the official provider of recreational safety education materials for all 50 states. Our print, Internet, and DVD safety courses have been providing official safety certification for states since 1995. We provide safety courses in boating, hunting, bowhunting, and off-road vehicle (ORV) and snowmobile operation. For more information, visit the Kalkomey Enterprises website.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Louisiana --(Ammoland.com)- The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) held their inaugural Summer Camp from July 18-22 at the Waddill Outdoor Education Center in Baton Rouge for children 12 to 16 years old.

The camp was completely free of charge and participants were able to receive their official LDWF boater and hunter education certifications.

The camp was split up between class room work and outdoor activities that consisted of fishing and canoeing in the ponds at the Waddill Outdoor Education Center, skeet shooting, air rifles, archery and casting practice.

“The camp was a great success and well received by the kids and their parents. The department will definitely sponsor more camps for next summer since we had such a great demand and response for this first one,” said LDWF Secretary Robert Barham.

“Since most classes for boating and hunting education are done in one day, this camp allowed for a lot of extra time during the week for the kids to get hands on experience and guidance on a number of outdoor activities.”

The camp was open to the first 20 children that registered who did not already have a boater or hunter education certificate. The following kids completed all five days of the camp and received their boating and hunting education certifications:

Tyler Irvin, 12, of Gonzales; Jordan London, 12, of Baton Rouge; Taiylar DeMoss, 12, of Baton Rouge; Devon Regira, 12, of Geismar; Darren Ficklin, 12 of Geismar; Colton Strain, 12, of Clinton; Chance Truett, 13, of Baton Rouge; Scott Sugasti, 13, of Barataria, Daniel Sant, 13, of Baton Rouge, Cade Hood, 12, of Walker; Emma Gordon, 15, of Baton Rouge, Jeffrey Ragusa, 13, of Gonzales; Alexander Williams, 12, of St. Gabriel; Mac Prudhomme, 13, of Baton Rouge; David Johnson, 14, of Baton Rouge; Jamey Jacocks, 16, of Geismar; Jacob Jacocks, 15, of Geismar; Hunter Rube, 15, of Baton Rouge; and Cedric Brown Jr., 13, of Thibodaux. Sari Sant, 15, of Baton Rouge, received her hunting education certificate, but had to leave the camp early and missed the boating education portion.

On the final day of the camp, LDWF held a skills challenge consisting of skeet shooting, archery, canoeing obstacle course, fish identification test, casting and fishing contests to determine which two campers would win lifetime hunting and fishing licenses. The Louisiana Wildlife Agents Association (LWAA) donated lifetime hunting and fishing license went to Ficklin. Sugasti won the lifetime hunting and fishing license donated by the Louisiana branch of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA).

The LWAA and Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation provided a daily lunch free of charge for the five-day summer camp. Cabela’s in Gonzales also donated a rod and reel combo set that each child received to upon completion of the camp. CCA also had volunteers on site and gave each student a CCA membership.

The boating education course is mandatory for anybody born after Jan. 1, 1984 to operate a motorboat in excess of 10 horsepower. The course includes information on choosing a boat, classification, hulls, motors, legal requirements and equipment requirements. The course also covers many navigation rules and charts, trailering, sailboats, canoeing, personal watercraft and more.

The hunter education course is mandatory for anyone born on or after Sept. 1, 1969, who plans on purchasing a hunting license. The hunter education curriculum includes sections on ethics and responsibility, wildlife management, firearms and ammunition, safety in the field, wildlife identification and wildlife conservation. The major objectives of the hunter education programs are to reduce the number of hunting accidents, improve the image of hunting through ethical and responsible conduct and promote the shooting sports.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- Visitors to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park will have the chance to learn the skill of shooting a bow and arrow through the Recreation 101 Beginning Archery Program, offered on Tuesday, July 26, and Tuesday, August 2. Both programs will begin at 7 p.m.

Led by park interpreter Bob Wild, this beginner archery program will introduce participants to the basics of archery target shooting. Archery equipment for most ages and abilities will be available for use during the free, one-hour program. Participants should meet at the park’s winter recreation area middle parking lot.

To learn more about this event or the many other Recreation 101 or interpretive nature programs offered each week at the park, go online to www.michigan.gov/dnrvisitorcenters and click on Wilderness Visitor Center to see a schedule of events.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is located at 33303 Headquarters Rd., Ontonagon, in the western Upper Peninsula. For more information, contact the park at 906-885-5206 or go online to www.michigan.gov/porkies.

The Recreation Passport has replaced motor vehicle permits for entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas and state-administered boating access fee sites. This new way to fund Michigan outdoor recreation opportunities also helps to preserve state forest campgrounds, trails and historic and cultural sites in state parks, and provides park development grants to local communities.

Michigan residents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($10 for motor vehicles; $5 for motorcycles) by checking “YES” on their license plate renewal forms, or at any state park or recreation area. Nonresident motor vehicles must still display a valid nonresident Recreation Passport ($29 annual; $8 daily) to enter a Michigan state park, recreation area or state-administered boating access fee site; these can be purchased at any state park or recreation area, or through the Michigan e-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore. To learn more about the Recreation Passport, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport or call (517) 241-7275.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

MALTA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Hunter Education classes are set to begin in Hamilton and Stevensville in early August. Interested students should register online now at fwp.mt.gov. Follow links to Education and Hunter Education.

The Stevensville class will be held at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge (4567 Wildfowl Lane), just north of Stevensville. Students should register online and then attend a mandatory orientation night on Monday, July 25 at 6:30p.m. Students can elect to take a class on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:30-9p.m. beginning on Aug. 1 and ending on Aug. 29 or Tuesday and Thursday evenings from Aug. 2 through Aug. 29. Class schedule details are available online.

The Hamilton class will be held at the Hamilton Assembly of God Church (601 West Main Street) on August 15, 16, 18, 22, 23, 25 and 29 from 7-9p.m. each evening with a field day on Saturday, Aug. 27. Students should register online and attend an orientation night on Tuesday, Aug. 2 at 7p.m. at the church

A parent or legal guardian must accompany all students under 18 to the orientation night for the class of their choice. Other hunter education classes will be held in some communities in Ravalli County this fall, but schedules have not been set.

Corvallis may not hold a class this fall, so students should plan accordingly. For updates, check the online class schedule at fwp.mt.gov. Follow links to “Education” and “Hunter Education.” Or, call the Missoula Fish, Wildlife & Parks office at 406-542-5500.

All hunter education classes are free of charge, and students must be at least 11 years old to be certified. By state law, anyone born after January 1, 1985, must have completed the Hunter Education Course to buy a hunting license in Montana.

Mossberg Five-Gun Training Set

Mossberg

North Haven, CT --(Ammoland.com)- O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. is pleased to offer a set of non-functioning training firearms that includes the five types of firearm actions covered in the hunter education curriculums – pump-action shotgun, semiautomatic shotgun, break-action shotgun, bolt-action rifle and lever-action rifle.

Each firearm in this set is clearly marked as non-functioning and features blaze orange stock and forend to ensure safe, responsible hands-on training.

These well-designed and durable training sets feature the Mossberg 500 pump-action shotgun, Mossberg 930 semiautomatic shotgun, Maverick Hunter Over-and-Under break-action shotgun, and the Mossberg 464 lever-action rifle; each with convenient, ambidextrous top-tang safeties and the Mossberg International 802 Plinkster bolt-action rimfire rifle with cross bolt safety.

All models have rugged synthetic stocks and forends with the exception of the lever-action which features traditional hardwood. Each training firearm proudly wears the Mossberg logo on the stock and features a durable phosphate coating on the exposed metalwork to prevent rust and wear.

Reinforcing the message of safe gun-handling, stocks and forends wear a blaze orange finish and “Non-Functioning Gun” is clearly engraved on the receiver. Each gun comes packed in an individual soft case and instructors have the option of purchasing the set with or without a rolling travel case.

“For over 90 years, Mossberg’s focus has been on building reliable and innovative firearms for sport and duty while never forgetting our responsibility to firearms safety,” commented Iver Mossberg, CEO of O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. “We are pleased to offer this 5-gun training set, allowing students as part of their Hunter Education to learn safe gun-handling with actual firearms that have been disabled.”

The Mossberg 5-Gun Training Set is available for $1,300 and the set with a handy, rolling travel case is available for $1,500. For more information or to purchase your training set today, please contact Mossberg Law Enforcement Sales at Conservation@mossberg.com or (203) 230-5300.

About O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. Founded in 1919, O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. is the oldest family-owned firearms manufacturer in America, and is the largest pump- action shotgun manufacturer in the world. Leading the way with over 100 design and utility patents to its credit, and standing as the first ISO 9001 Certified long-gun manufacturer, Mossberg is considered to be one of the most innovative firearms manufacturers in U.S. History. For more information on commercial, special purpose, law enforcement and military shotguns, rifles and accessories, please visit their website at www.mossberg.com.

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- The NRA International Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) program will return to Raton, New Mexico July 24-29, 2011.

More than 300 young hunters will descend upon the NRA Whittington Center in Raton along with several hundred parents, coaches, and volunteers from across the country.

The competition celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2010 and has continued to grow.

“YHEC has thrived for over 25 years because of the values and skills that the program instills in young people,” said Bill Poole, Director of NRA’s Education & Training Division.

“These young hunters are learning the benefits of teamwork, discipline and leadership in the field, and they’re also helping keep the tradition of hunting alive in this country for generations to come.”

Often referred to as NRA’s “graduate” program in hunter education, YHEC is comprised of eight events that test hunting knowledge and marksmanship skills. Four of the eight events are shooting-related, with participants competing in shotgun, muzzleloader, rifle, and archery challenges. Addition side events are held for fun including the Flu-Flu Arrow Shoot, Cherokee Run, and the annual tug-of-war.

The remaining four events, known as responsibility events, put the participants’ hunting knowledge to the ultimate test. These events include orienteering, a written test called the Hunter Responsibility Exam, a wildlife identification course, and the Hunter Safety Trail where the young hunters must use their judgment during simulated hunting scenarios.

The awards system for the International YHEC are divided into to two categories: individual and team, and then into two classifications: senior (age 15-18) and junior (age 14 and under). For each event, a maximum score of 300 points is possible for an individual and 1,500 points for a five-person team. When the scores for all eight events are combined, an individual can score a maximum of 2,400 points overall and a team can score 12,000 points overall.

This year’s International YHEC will see many new faces on the range this year thanks to the YHEC Mid-America Expansion Project which helped bring the YHEC program to many of the Midwestern states in late 2010 and 2011.

Each year, approximately 50,000 youth participate in YHEC events at a regional, state, or provincial level throughout the United States and Canada. The International event is open to all young hunters who have successfully completed a North American hunter education course and participated in their regional, state, or provincial YHEC program. Since its inception in 1985, YHEC has helped more than 1.2 million young sportsmen and women become safe, ethical and skilled hunters.

For more information on the YHEC program, contact NRA’s Hunter Services Department at (703) 267-1524 or visit www.nrayhec.org. Follow live coverage of the 2011 NRA International YHEC at www.nrablog.com

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Columbus, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Efforts to expand youth hunting opportunities are on the move throughout the country.

These bills, which are in-line with the Families Afield initiative, are designed to introduce more youth to hunting.

Michigan HB 4371 eliminates the minimum hunting age and creates a mentored youth hunting program for those less than age 10. This allows youth to hunt under the supervision of an experienced adult mentor prior to completing hunter education. HB 4371 recently cleared the House of Representatives and is now pending in the Senate. Similar legislation has already cleared the Senate, so further action will be needed before it is sent to the Governor.

New Jersey SB 2913 would allow the state to offer youth apprentice licenses for firearms and bow and arrow hunting. The licenses would allow youth ages 11 to 15 to try hunting under the guidance of an experienced adult mentor before having to completing hunter education. SB 2913 is currently pending in the Senate Committee on Environment and Energy.

New York SB 177 reduces the minimum age for youth to hunt deer or bear with a bow and arrow from 14 to 12. Under the bill, 12 and 13 year olds must be accompanied while hunting. SB 177 was recently signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Oklahoma HB 1338 expands the state’s apprentice hunting license to allow youth ages 8 and 9 to hunt. Currently, only youth 10 and older can use the apprentice license. HB 1338 was recently signed into law by Governor Mary Fallin.

Pennsylvania SB 502 would allow the state game commission to expand the mentored youth hunting program to include adults. Currently, only those 11 and under are able to participate.

The Families Afield initiative was established by the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, and the National Wild Turkey Federation to bring a new generation of sportsmen to the field. Along with the National Rifle Association and the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, the Families Afield coalition has worked to pass measures in 32 states with more than 600,000 apprentice or mentored hunting licenses sold since the program’s inception.

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. Visit www.ussportsmen.org.

FederalPremium.com

ANOKA, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- -(Ammoland.com)- Federal Premium Ammunition has named the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) Volunteer Instructor of the Year. Ricky Moss, from Athens, Georgia is the recipient of the award.

He was honored and received the award Thursday afternoon during the 2011 IHEA Annual Conference in Wrightsville Beach, NC.

Federal Premium’s IHEA Volunteer Instructor of the Year: Ricky Moss

More than 70,000 IHEA instructors reach nearly 750,000 hunter education students annually. Ricky Moss’ accolades highlight the strength of IHEA’s mission in the U.S. and internationally. In 2010, he was involved in 45 hunter education courses that certified 2,095 students. He also recruited 25 additional volunteer instructors. Federal Premium Ammunition sponsors the award, and treated Ricky to an all-expense paid trip to accept his award and attend the IHEA conference in Wrightsville Beach, N.C.

An IHEA selection committee selected the finalists and a panel of knowledgeable judges deemed Ricky the award winner. Ray Metzler, Hunter Education Coordinator for the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, nominated Ricky for his outstanding efforts and positive impact helping execute IHEA’s mission.

Strong, Strengthening Partnership
Federal has sponsored IHEA for more than a decade. The company also donated a complete set of hunter education instruction materials to each of the three award finalists. Many educational materials are also available to volunteer instructors at reduced costs through Federal’s website, at www.federalpremium.com/hunters_education/educational_materials.aspx.

Federal’s strong stance for hunter education also earned the company a seat on the IHEA Foundation Board—to be filled by Federal Premium Conservation Manager Ryan Bronson. This foundation raises money to support the activities and mission of the IHEA organization. It is composed of representatives from the firearms, hunting and shooting industry.

“Volunteer instructors have always been the lifeblood of hunter education,” said Federal Premium Conservation Manager Ryan Bronson. “We sponsor the Instructor of the Year award as a way of recognizing the hunters and shooters who donate their time to pass on our heritage. Hunting and shooting are safe—and getting safer each year in large part because of the foundation being set by instructors like Ricky Moss.”

Federal supports numerous conservation organizations, participates in many ammunition royalty programs, and provides many shooting sports educational materials. To learn more about Federal’s support, please visit http://www.federalpremium.com/hunters_education/programs.aspx.

About Federal Cartridge Company
Headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota, Federal Cartridge Company has been providing hunters and shooters with high-quality rimfire, centerfire and shotshell ammunition since 1922. It pioneered the Premium category of ammunition and is part of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturer, ATK Security and Sporting. For more information on Federal, visit www.federalpremium.com.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

MALTA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- The final bowhunter education course and field day of the year have been scheduled in Glasgow.

The bowhunter education classes are set for June 23-24 at the Assembly of God Church, 1220 10th Street North. The classes will run from 6 – 9 p.m. on June 23 and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on June 24.

A mandatory field day event, which will also be open to bowhunter education students who have completed their coursework online, runs from 9 a.m. – noon on June 25 at the Montana Bowhunter Association practice range off Skylark Road just west of town.

In Montana, completion of a hunter education course is required for all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1985. In addition, all first-time archery hunters must complete a bowhunter education course in order to purchase an archery license in Montana.

All of the bowhunter education requirements must be completed by July 31 of a given year in order for the graduates to be eligible to hunt that fall.

A child must be at least 11 years old to take the classroom courses. Class registration, which can be completed at the FWP Region 6 office in Glasgow, requires the signature of a parent or guardian for students under the age of 18. Students are required to read the course manual before the first day of class.

Students must be 18 or older to take the classes online, and online students must pay an administrative fee. Hunter and bowhunter education sessions taught in a traditional classroom setting are free.

Online students who want to participate in the mandatory field day event must register through the FWP Website at fwp.mt.gov under the “Education” section. For more information, call 406-228-3700.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The Pennsylvania Game Commission today announced a series of upcoming professional development opportunities offered as part of the agency’s Project WILD program.

Classroom teachers, early childhood teachers, informal educators, homeschool leaders and Scout and youth group leaders are welcome to participate in these workshops.

“Workshop offerings range from endangered species and wildlife forensics to orienteering and habitat-specific programs, such as ‘Wild about Wetlands’ and ‘Watershed Education,’” said Theresa Alberici, who coordinates the program through the Game Commission’s Bureau of Information and Education. “In addition to our species-focused workshops on bear, owls and waterfowl, we’ve added a ‘Wild about Turkey’ workshop.”

For a complete list of courses being offered, go to the agency’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) and click on the “2011 Teacher Workshops” icon in the center of the homepage. The listing includes a two-page summary of the courses being offered from June through August in various parts of the state, followed by information on how to register for each of the courses.

Project WILD is an award-winning, international, hands-on conservation education program. It focuses on wildlife and the environment and how humans interrelate with both. WILD provides educators, primarily kindergarten through 12th grade, with interdisciplinary activities that help address state and national education standards and help educators comply with mandates of the No Child Left Behind Act. WILD’s materials are scientifically sound and use educational practices proven to be effective.

WILD’s mission is to provide wildlife-based conservation education that fosters responsible action. WILD’s goal is to develop the awareness, skills, knowledge and commitment that are necessary for people to make informed decisions and act constructively and responsibly toward wildlife and the environment.

“Educators leave Project WILD workshops with a renewed appreciation of wildlife and are excited about how they’re going to share what they’ve learned with their students,” Alberici said. “This year, wildlife agencies nationwide celebrated one million educators ‘Gone WILD.’ More than one million educators have been trained in the program since Project WILD originated in 1983.

“Project WILD isn’t about teaching kids what to think about wildlife; it’s about teaching kids how to think about wildlife and giving them the skills they need to become responsibly active citizens who recognize the importance of wildlife and the environment. The milestone of training one million educators means that, through Project WILD, more than 53 million people worldwide have experience in thinking responsibly about natural resources. Last year alone, state wildlife agencies ordered more than 65,000 guides for distribution to educators across the country, reaching 1.8 million students with information on wildlife conservation.”

Alberici works closely with Game Commission Southeast Region Wildlife Education Specialist Dan Lynch and Southwest Region Wildlife Education Supervisor Joe Stefko, as well as the Pennsylvania Department of Education and prominent conservation and environmental education organizations throughout the state and the country.

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

DOVER, Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- Before applying for a Delaware hunting license, all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1967 are required to take a minimum 10-hour basic hunter education course. Since Jan. 1, 2010, Delaware law also requires that a live-firing experience be part of every basic hunter education class, for both online and traditional classroom versions.

There are now locations in all three counties where Delaware hunter education students can fulfill their live-firing requirement: Owens Station Sporting Clay Range near Greenwood in Sussex County, the C&R Center in Petersburg in Kent County, and Ommelanden Range near New Castle and Taylor Bridge Community Center near Townsend, both in New Castle County.

Insurance rules covering the shooting require that all students participating in any hunter education live firing provide a signed release of liability and waiver of right to sue in order to participate. Waivers for minor students under the age of 18 must now include the notarized signatures of parents or legal guardians. (NOTE: Because the Division of Fish & Wildlife’s Office of Hunter Education asks that the signed waiver be mailed in to at least seven days prior to the course date to validate a student’s registration, students may not be able to just “walk in” on the day of the class and be seated.)

The Hunter Education Program will provide all firearms, ammunition and targets but students will be responsible for their own hearing and eye protection. All basic hunter education courses taught by State of Delaware volunteer instructors are offered free of charge. This includes participation in the instructor-led field days required of all on-line course students. The online hunter education courses are provided by private vendors and are available for a nominal fee.

Additional information, waivers and websites for online courses are available at the Division of Fish & Wildlife website at www.fw.delaware.gov – scroll down to Hunter/Trapper Education Access. Copies of the waiver can be obtained at the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife in Dover or by calling the Office of Hunter Education at 302-735-3600

South Dakota Fish, Game & Parks

UPTON, WY --(Ammoland.com)- A unique partnership between South Dakota and Wyoming will provide an opportunity for kids interested in the outdoors.

The Youth Hunter Education Challenge, as it’s officially called, will be held May 14 near Upton, Wyo., and young hunters do not need to qualify in a regional or district tournament to compete. All Wyoming and South Dakota youth 18 and under who have passed hunter education courses are eligible to showcase their hunting skills and probably learn a little, too.

The challenge tests youngsters in sporting clay-style trap shooting, .22 rifle, muzzleloader and archery marksmanship, wildlife identification, orienteering and hunter safety judgments.

“The challenge is designed to be fun for all participants – not just the winners,” said Curt Robertson, South Dakota’s GFP hunter education coordinator.

This is the fourth year the challenge has been hosted by the Upton Gun Club and officially sanctioned by the National Rifle Association. Winners in both age categories – 15-18 and 14 and under – are eligible to advance to the international competition to be held July 24-29 at NRA’s Whittington Center near Raton, N.M.

In addition to the South Dakota and Wyoming Game, Fish and Parks departments and the gun club, the challenge is sponsored by the Wyoming Friends of the NRA and a variety of Wyoming businesses. All participants receive prizes for competing.

In the spirit of interstate cooperation, South Dakota young hunters have been participating in the challenge since 2009.

“Because Upton is close to the border, Wyoming has let South Dakota particapants join in the fun,” Roberston said.

He adds that although the youngsters from both states participate in the same tests, they will not be competing against each other. Winners will be crowned from both states.

To participate, youngsters need to submit copies of their hunter education card, birth certificate, photo and pay a $10 entry fee. Entry forms are available by emailing Curt.Robertson@state.sd.us .
For more info, call GFP employees Curt Robertson at 605-223-7666 or Rick Rothleutner of the Upton Gun Club at 307-281-9980.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

GLASGOW, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- A bowhunter education class and the final hunter education class of the season have been scheduled in Glasgow.

The bowhunter class runs April 26-29 at the Assembly of God Church, 1220 10th Street North. The class will run from 6 – 9 p.m. on the weekdays.

A mandatory field day event is set for 9 a.m. – noon on April 30.

In Montana, completion of a hunter education course is required for all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1985. In addition, all first-time bowhunters must complete a bowhunter education course in order to purchase an archery license in Montana. Bowhunter education requirements also must be completed by July 31 of a given year in order for the graduates to be eligible to hunt that fall.

Meanwhile, the last hunter education course scheduled this spring in Glasgow runs from May 2-6, and there are a few student slots still available.

These classes take place at the East Side Elementary School Library and run from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. during the weekdays. Students must attend each of the classes. A field day event, where practical skills are tested, is set for May 7.

A child must be at least 11 years old to take the classroom courses. Registration requires the signature of a parent or guardian for students under the age of 18. Students are required to read the course manual before the first day of class.

Some of the field day events are also open to students over 18 who have completed their coursework online. Online students must pay an administrative fee and, depending on their age, may be required to complete other requirements.

Hunter and bowhunter education sessions taught in a traditional classroom setting are free. For more information, call 406-228-3700.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

MALTA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- A bowhunter education class is planned for Superior this month, and prospective students can register online now.

Classes are set for March 16, 21, 24 and 28 from 7-9:30 p.m. each evening with a field course on Saturday, March 26 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

All classes are held at the US Forest Service office, 209 West Riverside in Superior. Students must attend all classes to be certified.

Interested students can register online now at fwp.mt.gov. Click on “Bowhunter Education Course Schedule,” or call instructor John Benda at 406-546-2555.

Montana also offers online bowhunter education classes for anyone 18 years and older. Most of the coursework is completed online, and then students must take a field day to receive their certification card.

A field course for online students will be offered in Superior on Saturday, July 30. For more information about the online class and to register for a field day, visit fwp.mt.gov and click on “Bowhunter Education Course Schedule.” There is a $20 fee for the online course.

By state law, all first time bowhunters must complete a bowhunter education course in order to purchase a bow and arrow license in Montana. Bowhunters born after January 1, 1985 must also show proof of completing a hunter education program.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

MALTA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Hunter education courses are set to begin in April in Missoula and Frenchtown, and students can register online now.

The Missoula classes begin the week of April 11, and students can elect to take a class on Monday and Wednesday evenings, April 11-May 2, or Tuesday and Thursday evenings, April 12-May 3. All classes are from 7-9:30 p.m. at Big Sky High School.

A field course is planned for Saturday, April 30. Interested students can register online now at fwp.mt.gov. Click on “Hunter Education Course Schedule” on the main page.

Frenchtown classes begin on Monday, April 4 with an orientation session from 6-7 p.m. at the Frenchtown Fire Hall, 16873 Marion Street. Classes will be held at the fire hall on Wednesday, April 27, Thursday, April 28 and Monday, May 2 from 6-9 p.m. each evening with a morning field course on Saturday, April 30.

Interested students can register online now at fwp.mt.gov.

Classes are free, and a student must be at least 11 years old to receive certification. Any person born after January 1, 1985 must present a Hunter Education Certificate in order to purchase a hunting license in Montana.

For a complete schedule of west-central Montana classes and more information, visit the FWP website, fwp.mt.gov or call 406-542-5500.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The Pennsylvania Game Commission is looking for experienced hunters and trappers who are interested in becoming volunteer instructors for the agency’s basic Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE), Successful Bowhunting, Successful Furtaking and the new Successful Turkey Hunting courses, as well as future courses under consideration.

“Becoming a volunteer instructor for the Game Commission is one way experienced hunters and trappers can help pass along our outdoors heritage to a new generation,” said Keith Snyder, Game Commission Hunter-Trapper Education Division chief. “Becoming an instructor also is a fine way to help make a difference in your community and to do something to help improve the quality of our education and safety programs.

“If you’re an experienced hunter or trapper, and want to give something back, I encourage you to become a certified instructor for one or all of the agency’s education programs. Quality training is vitally important to ensuring these new, young hunters and trappers are both safe and responsible.”

Persons who wish to become instructors should be knowledgeable, experienced hunters and trappers, and be willing to teach at least one class per year. Classes are held at a variety of locations, such as sportsmen’s clubs, fire halls, schools and municipal buildings.

Instructors work with other volunteer instructors, WCOs and Deputy WCOs to plan and teach classes. Applicants need not be experts in every field of hunting and trapping. All teaching materials and detailed lesson plans are provided by the Game Commission.

All new instructors must have attended and completed a class, as a student, within the 18 months prior to or after submitting their application. Also, applicants must pass a background check, assist with at least one student-level class and attend a new instructor training workshop before being certified.

For more information about becoming an instructor, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) and select “Education,” then choose “Hunter Education” and then click on “Becoming an Instructor.” Individuals also can request an application packet online or by calling the agency’s Hunter-Trapper Education Division at 717-787-7015.

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- With the junior spring gobbler season set for April 23, and the general spring gobbler season opening on April 30, Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe is reminding all first-time license buyers to make plans to attend a Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE) course now.

To register for a course in your area, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), select “Education” in the menu bar in the banner, then put your cursor on “Hunter Education,” and then click on “Class Schedule” and follow the instructions.

“Right now, Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officers, Deputy WCOs and volunteer instructors are meeting to schedule courses, review curriculum updates and prepare for this year,” Roe said. “From there, course schedules are provided to our Region Offices and the information is posted on the agency’s website for students to choose and enroll in courses.”

Game Commission Hunter-Trapper Education Division Chief Keith A. Snyder noted that, with the agency’s recent transition to a new website format, course schedules continue to be added each day.

“If you don’t see a class being offered in your area, please continue to check the website daily, as more and more classes will be entered into the database,” Snyder said.

With the support of thousands of volunteers, HTE courses are being held throughout the state. There is no fee for the basic HTE course. Pre-registration is required and online registration is available for all courses offered by the agency.

Taught by dedicated teams of trained volunteers, most HTE classes last at least 10 hours over two or more days, and participants must attend all instruction before taking the test at the end of the course. Youngsters must be at least 11 years old to receive HTE certification.

Successful completion of a basic Pennsylvania HTE class, or another state’s equivalent course, is required by state law to obtain a first-time hunting or furtaker license, regardless of age.

Registrations also are being accepted for the independent study version of the basic HTE program, which is available for those 11 years of age or older. A fee of $1.59 may apply if applicants order a printed copy of the study manual, which also is available online free of charge.

In addition, registrations are being accepted for other educational programs offered by the Game Commission, including Successful Bowhunting, Successful Furtaking and Cable Restraint Certification.

The Successful Bowhunting course is a one-day voluntary training program for those seeking to expand their skills and knowledge of bowhunting. While voluntary in Pennsylvania, certification for this course may be required by other states. There is an $20 course fee, which covers the cost of the online study course required before attending the class.

Successful Furtaking is a one-day training program that provides extensive hands-on training to new and experienced furtakers. The course promotes Best Management Practices and is designed for any person seeking to learn more about furtaking and to improve his or her skills and success. The course includes the cable restraint certification that is required to participate in the cable restraint season for foxes and coyotes. This course also fulfills the requirement that all first-time furtaker license buyers pass a basic trapper education course. A $15 course fee is charged.

The Cable Restraint Certification course is required for those trappers seeking to participate in the annual trapping season in which cable restraints are used to capture coyotes and foxes. The course fee is $15, and students will get to keep various education materials and one legal cable restraint provided as part of the course.

During 2011, the agency will be launching a new program, Successful Turkey Hunting, which is designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in both spring and fall seasons. It will give first-time hunters a huge step toward bagging a bird. Veterans will learn methods and techniques that will make them a better hunter, too. Students will receive a 140-page student guide and a diaphragm turkey call as part of the program. Look for most classes to be up and going before the fall season this year. In the future, classes will start in the spring and continue through the summer and early fall. A $15 fee is being charged to offset costs.

“We are planning to offer additional advanced courses in the future focusing on specific sporting arms and certain species-specific seasons, such as Successful Muzzleloading and Successful Wingshooting,” Snyder said. “We will be working with interested groups of sportsmen specializing in each of the areas to develop curriculum and solid hands-on training that will emphasize methods and techniques.”

In 1959, the Game Commission began offering a voluntary hunter safety program, and about 25,000 students participated in that program annually. Beginning in 1969, the General Assembly required all first-time hunting license buyers under the age of 16 to successfully complete a four-hour hunter education course. The course requirement was expanded to six hours in 1977. The program became mandatory for all first-time hunting license buyers regardless of age in 1982.

Finally, in 1986, the safety program was increased to 10 hours of class time and trapper training was included. The name of the program also was changed to Hunter-Trapper Education, and was required for all first-time furtaker license buyers, too.

Since 1959, more than 1.8 million students have been certified through this course.

Hunter Ed Instructors Report New Online Curriculum Better Prepares Them to Teach

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

ESTES PARK, Colo. --(Ammoland.com)- With turkey season and big game application draws right around the corner, now is a great time to take the new IHEA Online Instructor Curriculum and share your passion for hunting.

The web-based format fits the busy lifestyle of volunteers seeking to become certified or recertified hunter education instructors.

Hunter education instructors are finding the new online training, developed by the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA), is an excellent tool for teaching the next generation of hunters to be safe and responsible.Curriculum – Treestand

“My volunteer instructors have commented on how critical this program was to understanding and delivering an effective program,” said Tony Legg, state hunter education and range coordinator for the Missouri Department of Conservation. “This training offers the flexibility to meet the needs of every instructor because it’s self-paced, interactive, supportive and easy to follow. Even without a computer in every home, today’s libraries, work, school, friends, relatives, and our own department offices offer access to this training.”

Legg, who has 1,400 volunteer instructors across Missouri, said a myriad of factors impair his ability to recruit and train hunter education instructors. However, having the flexibility of online training helps overcome challenges such as dwindling budgets, fuel costs, travel time, manpower costs, limited personal time, family obligations, and varying learning paces.

According to Legg, the online training option also better prepares his instructors to be active and effective.

“When you recruit a new instructor and they come to initial training, they really do not know what to expect,” Legg said. “After all the manpower, materials, administrative time and issuing of instructor items, to have the instructor candidate never teach a course or drop out of the program is damaging to all levels of the program. Instructors who have taken the online training understand the techniques of proper program delivery and what the expectations are. This preparation leads to less waste and more savings in all areas. Plus, it decreases the amount of traditional classroom training time and results in higher retention of recruited instructor candidates.”

The new online curriculum helps volunteer instructors learn how to create an exciting classroom and use positive communications techniques. It also explains how to teach according to students’ various learning styles and manage the classroom so it’s a productive learning environment. Developed in partnership with Remington Outdoor Foundation, this online training features lessons that combine photos, animation, video and narration offering expert advice.

“Our veteran instructors also expressed positive comments on how the online training offered them a great dose of techniques they had forgotten or were never presented with,” Legg said. “The said they felt it would truly improve their students’ training experience. “

The more than 70,000 volunteer Instructors in North America are the backbone of the Hunter Education Program. The new online training can help recruit and retain active volunteers by allowing them to conveniently receive or renew their certification.

To take the course as an individual and help uphold the future of hunting, visit www.IHEAtraining.com. This 90-minute multi-media curriculum is available for $25/person. For an additional $5 you also can receive a discounted one-year membership to IHEA and help support safe and responsible hunting. This is a one-time offer for new members only.

Wildlife agencies, sportsmen’s groups and conservation organizations interested in certifying or re-certifying hunter education instructors can purchase multiple online curriculum access codes for distribution to qualified candidates by purchase order or credit card. Access codes are provided upon confirmation of payment. A minimum purchase of 25 training sessions is required. These access codes do not expire and can be used from one year to the next.

For more information or to purchase online curriculum access codes contact Paige Russell at hunter.ed@remingtonoutdoor.org or 336-548-8936.

About International Hunter Education Association (IHEA)
The International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) is the professional association forIHEA the 69 member agencies and the 70,000 volunteer instructors who teach hunter education in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, South Africa and New Zealand. For more information, visit IHEA at www.ihea.com.

About OutdoorRoadmap.comOutdoorRoadmap.com
OutdoorRoadmap.com, is expected to become the single online source of information and services related to hunting, target shooting and conservation. By teaming with interested participants, OutdoorRoadmap.com will offer interactive maps and tools, special offers, event listings, training and licensing resources, and a wealth of outdoor information. For more information about this state-of-the-art platform, visit www.OutdoorRoadmap.com.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a new report, Trends in Fishing and Hunting 1991-2006: A focus on Fishing and Hunting by Species, that provides a detailed look at fishing and hunting by species and offers a wealth of information on national and state fishing and hunting expenditures, participation rates, and demographic trends.

The new report, an addendum to the 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife Associated Recreation, represents a comprehensive survey conducted by the Service’s Wildlife Sport Fish and Restoration Program (WSFR). Data used to support the study were obtained from eleven fishing and hunting surveys sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA).

“This report provides invaluable information on the state of hunting and fishing participation in America that will help state and federal agencies maintain and increase opportunities for hunting, sport fishing and recreational boating,” said Hannibal Bolton, assistant director of the Service’s Wildlife Sport Fish and Restoration Program.

“I am encouraged by findings indicating that hunting and fishing participation rates are in many ways stronger and more resilient than previously believed.”

The following details are among highlights contained in the report:

• The number of turkey hunters has increased at more than twice the rate of the growth of the U.S. population since 1991.
• The number of duck and deer hunters has been stable since 1991.
• Turkey hunters in 2006 went out twice as many days as they did in 1991.  The rates for duck and deer hunters going out more days have also increased – by 20 to 40 percent.
• While the overall number of hunters has declined, most of this drop can be attributed to a large decrease in small game and dove hunting.
• Rabbit and squirrel hunting have lost half their participants since 1991, which may indicate that recruitment of new hunters is declining.
• For fishing, participation has dropped for nearly all types of fishing (i.e., freshwater and saltwater) and species of fish. One species for which fishing hasn’t significantly dropped is flatfish.
• The declining numbers of anglers have increased their average days of fishing so that overall fishing effort has remained stable.

“We want reviewers of this research to understand that while the generalization that hunting and fishing are declining in popularity is often heard, this report shows that the truth is more complicated,” said Richard Aiken, the Service’s lead economist for the study. “This report aids those who want to point to positive aspects of participation in fishing and hunting in the U.S., and how recruitment and retention efforts can be designed to appeal to the correct demographic groups.”

Trends in Fishing and Hunting 1991-2006

About:
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Remington / IHEA Firearm Training Set

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

ESTES PARK, Colo. --(Ammoland.com)- Order the new 5-Firearm Training Set and wheeled gun case before April 1 and take advantage of 2010 pricing before a 2011 cost increase goes into effect. You’ll save money and be able to provide safe, hands-on hunter education training for years to come.

The Firearm Training Set includes a non-firing version of every action covered in the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) curriculum: pump, semi-auto, bolt action, lever action and single-barrel break action. The airline-approved, wheeled gun case and soft firearms cases make it easy to transport the training set.

Hunter education administrators and instructors can receive a 30 percent discount on firearm training sets and gun cases. The 5-Firearm Training Set retails for $2,100 or $2,500 for the training set and wheeled gun case. Nonprofit organizations and government agencies can receive the special discounted price of $1,500 for the training set or $1,750 for the training set and wheeled gun case. After April 1, the training set and gun cases will increase to $1,775.

Hunter education experts who are using the new 5-Firearm Training sets give them two thumbs up. Those who don’t have them yet are busy finding ways to bring this innovative teaching aid into their classrooms.

Mark Cousins, the hunter education coordinator for the Colorado Division of Wildlife, said he likes the fact all five firearms in the set are completely disabled so they can’t fire.

“The fact they are inert firearms greatly reduces the remote possibility of a negligent discharge,” Cousins said. “Also, the inert guns are much easier to get into public buildings and schools where hunter education takes place.”

Cousins and his volunteer instructors will use the Firearm Training Sets in the classroom to demonstrate action types, firearms function, carry methods, shooting positions, transfer of a firearm to another, obstacle crossing, and safety and responsibility. He said the inert firearms, which look and feel like the real thing, are more important than ever as fewer students have handled a real firearm.

“By giving the students the opportunity to handle the inert guns, they gain knowledge and confidence in their abilities,” he said. “This helps when it comes to the live fire session, required in every Colorado hunter education class.”

Cousins also believes these teaching tools are not only beneficial to students, they will help recruit new volunteer hunter education instructors.

“Some folks who are considering joining up may think they don’t have all the tools they need to properly teach a class. By being able to provide the instructors a complete set of firearm action types, it makes it much easier for them to teach hunter education,” Cousins said.

Jim Dawson, Wyoming Game and Fish Department hunter education coordinator, also saw the value of bringing this teaching aid to his classrooms and worked hard to make that happen. While Dawson’s agency lacked the ability to purchase the training sets, he didn’t fall short in the good idea department. Dawson achieved his goal through a partnership with the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming.

“I approached Craig Showalter, President and CEO of the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming, to help me obtain the training sets,” Dawson said. “Showalter is not only an avid hunter; he is very involved with the recruitment and retention of hunters. He helped us purchase two Firearms Training Sets and is seeking donations so more Wyoming hunter education instructors will have access to this training aid.”

Each firearm in the set features a blaze orange stock making them easy to identify as training tools. These durable, high quality firearms also are powder coated to make the metal parts resistant to rust and other elements. Remington Arms Company, Marlin Firearms and Harrington & Richardson (H&R) partnered with Remington Outdoor Foundation to produce the only set of training firearms in the United States that meets the specifications of IHEA.

Quantities are limited and costs for the training set/gun case combo will increase after April 1. Order now and have sets available for your 2011 courses.

• Place your order by contacting Kati Howerton at 336-548-8712 or Kati.Howerton@remington.com.
• Canadians can contact Adriana Maciocia at Adriana.maciocia@gravelagency.com or 418-682-3000.

About International Hunter Education Association (IHEA)
The International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) is the professional association forIHEA the 69 member agencies and the 70,000 volunteer instructors who teach hunter education in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, South Africa and New Zealand. For more information, visit IHEA at www.ihea.com.

About OutdoorRoadmap.com
OutdoorRoadmap.com, is expected to become the single online source of information and services related to hunting, target shooting and conservation. By teaming with interested participants, OutdoorRoadmap.com will offer interactive maps and tools, special offers, event listings, training and licensing resources, and a wealth of outdoor information. For more information about this state-of-the-art platform, visit www.OutdoorRoadmap.com.

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

MAYFLOWE, AR --(Ammoland.com)- Trapping has been an activity in Arkansas since the days of the earliest explorers. Today, instructions on the basics of trapping are available through modern media – online and with a free DVD.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies have a trapper education program that teaches beginning trappers how to use traps without harming people or domestic animals, assorted trappers skills, legal methods of trapping and ethical behavior to maximize the enjoyment of the resource.

The trapper education material also explains how trapping fits into the overall scheme of scientific wildlife management.

Arkansas Trapper Education Manual

To learn more about the importance of trapping and how to do it, phone 800-364-4263, extension 6359, or e-mail askAGFC@agfc.state.ar.us to get a free DVD with the AGFC trapper education manual and other trapping-related materials.

Online trapping information can be obtained by going to http://www.agfc.com/hunting/Pages/HuntingTrapperEducation.aspx.

Youth Trapper Education Workshops

Outdoor Alabama

Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) will hold four youth trapper education workshops between December 2010 and February 2011, with more to be scheduled during the 2011-12 trapping season.

Each of the two-and-a-half-day events is free to participants, and classes are limited to 25 students per workshop. Youth need to be at least 6 years old to participate.

Youth under age 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or adult. During the classes, seasoned trapping instructors teach students in a variety of subjects including the history of trapping, furbearer ecology and management, trapping techniques, laws and regulations, and outdoor ethics.

“The youth of today are more accustomed to sitting on the couch, playing video games, texting their friends or watching TV,” Sievering said. “Opportunities like this to learn outdoor skills seem to be somewhat limited. The youth trapper education workshops are just one tool to reverse that trend.”

Call 205-339-5716 to register.

The workshop dates and locations are:

• December 17-19, 2010, Decatur in Morgan County, Ala.
• January 7-9, 2011, Greensboro in Hale County, Ala.
• January 21-23, 2011, Rockford in Coosa County, Ala.
• February 18-20, 2011, Greenville in Butler County, Ala.

About:
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com .

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Wisconsin ended its 2010 gun-deer season free of hunter fatalities, a feat first and last seen in 1974.

“No one was shot and killed while deer hunting this year in Wisconsin,” said Tim Lawhern, Department of Natural Resources hunter education administrator and conservation warden. “This has happened once before in the state’s history of gun-deer seasons. And that was 36 years ago.”

Overall, there were 12 hunting incidents during the nine-day deer gun season. Lawhern said that for the families of those injured hunters, 2010 didn’t feel like a success. The agency only tracks firearm-related incidents and does not keep track of deaths or injuries due to heart attacks, tree stand falls or other causes.

“Any shooting incident is one too many,” Lawhern said. “We wish them all speedy recoveries.”

Lawhern, who also serves as the president of the International Hunter Education Association, says several factors are behind the successful hunt.

Education, guidelines and technology
High on Lawhern’s list as a key factor behind the second-only fatal-free season in Wisconsin’s history of the gun-deer hunt is the participation in the DNR Hunter Education Program – which began as hunter safety classes in 1967.

“The year before hunter education began in Wisconsin, the incident rate was 44 injuries for every 100,000 hunters,” Lawhern said, adding the 1967 course was six hours long and covered firearm safety only.

Things have changed since 1967.

“Since that time, we have seen things like the creation of opening and closing hours for hunting, mandatory blaze orange for hunters, full safety harnesses, firearm restrictions, global positioning satellite devices, cell phones and more,” he said. “All of these have contributed to the increased safety for hunters.”

Wisconsin’s hunter education certification program became mandatory for all hunters born or after Jan. 1, 1973 in 1985. That meant any hunter 12, the youngest legal hunter, beginning in 1985 had to complete the hunter education program.

“We have certified almost one million graduates. Our program has led the way both nationally – and internationally – with improved delivery, curriculum and outreach regarding safe and responsible hunting,” Lawhern said of the program taught by volunteer instructors statewide.

Wisconsin’s hunter education program has had many firsts, including the nation’s first online course, instructor academy and a junior instructor program.

“The hunter education program also has evolved into more topics including knowledge, responsibility and ethics,” he said.

While the fatal-free season is a victory for safety, Lawhern says it wasn’t a complete surprise.

Predicting the fatal-free season, and the four rules of firearm safety
Lawhern says considering all the progress made in hunting, along with looking at the records behind every shooting incident of past seasons, made it easy to predict the fatal-free season was coming.

“We know a tremendous amount about hunting incidents. We can predict who is going to be shot. We can predict how many, where and what they are going to be doing at that moment,” Lawhern said. “We just don’t have the names and addresses.”

Lawhern’s analysis shows about one-third to one-half of all injuries is related to deer drives. The self-inflicted injuries will be one-third to one half of all the total of the gun-deer season.

“We also know the shooters younger than 18 will make up about 20 to 30 percent of the shooting injuries. The vast majority will occur on private land and half will happen on opening weekend,” he said. “Ultimately, nearly all are linked to a violation of one or more of the four basic rules of firearm safety – treat every firearm as if it is loaded, never point your firearm at a person, never put your finger in the trigger until you are ready to shoot and know what is behind your target.”

And, Lawhern says, the most significant contributors to hunting incidents are those 35 and older – the hunters not covered by the mandat ory hunter education course rule. “All hunters should take the hunter education certification course – no matter the age.”

Safety doesn’t take breaks

“Our hunter education program is revered as one of, if not the best in the country,” Lawhern said, adding most of the volunteer instructors have never experienced a gun-deer season free of fatalities. “Those instructors, along with other factors, are major contributors to the success and safety of hunting.”

The course helps all hunters to make safety a habit.

“Safety does not take a vacation. Either you are safe all the time, every time, or you are not. You are only as safe as the next hunt,” he said.

Lawhern says he hopes those who haven’t completed the hunter education certification course will make it a priority in 2011 to make the next gun-deer season the third fatal-free in the state’s history. More information about hunter safety education is available on the DNR website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern – (608) 266-1317

Remington / IHEA Firearm Training Set

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

ESTES PARK, Colo. --(Ammoland.com)- Invest in hunter education with your remaining 2010 budgeted funds by purchasing the 5-Firearm Training Set and wheeled carrying case.

There is a limited supply of firearm training sets available, but for those who purchase them, there are unlimited opportunities to provide students with training that is hands-on and safe.

Hunter education administrators and instructors will receive a 30 percent discount on firearms training sets and wheeled cases, which were produced by the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) and Remington Outdoor Foundation (ROF).

“All firearms in the training set are completely disabled, so they can’t discharge. This allows students to learn safe firearms handling with a tool that simulates an actual firearm in every way except for live fire,” said Wayne East, IHEA’s executive director.

The five firearms in this set include every action covered in IHEA’s curriculum: pump, semi-auto, bolt action, lever action and single-barrel break action. Each firearm features a blaze orange stock that is laser engraved with the IHEA and ROF logos. These durable, high quality firearms also are powder coated to make the metal parts resistant to rust and other elements.

An airline-approved, wheeled gun case and soft firearms cases are also available, allowing instructors to easily transport the training set.

The IHEA-approved firearms training set is ideal for hunter education instructors as well as for law enforcement instructors and those who offer safety training at events introducing youth, women and others to hunting and target shooting.

The 5-Firearm Training Set retails for $2,100 or $2,500 with the wheeled gun case. Nonprofit organizations and government agencies can receive the special discounted price of $1,500 or $1,750 with the wheeled gun case.

• You can place your order by contacting Kati Howerton at 336-548-8712 or Kati.Howerton@remington.com.
• Canadians can contact Adriana Maciocia at Adriana.maciocia@gravelagency.com or 418-682-3000.

Order now, quantities are limited.

About International Hunter Education Association (IHEA)
The International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) is the professional association forIHEA the 69 member agencies and the 70,000 volunteer instructors who teach hunter education in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, South Africa and New Zealand. For more information, visit IHEA at www.ihea.com.

About Remington Outdoor Foundation
Remington Outdoor FoundationRemington Outdoor Foundation, which was founded in January 2009 as a nonprofit 501 (C) (3), supports the efforts of its collaborators to share hunting, target shooting and other outdoor traditions while emphasizing safety and training, recruitment and retention, education, access and awareness. Remington Outdoor Foundation also upholds conservation principles through supporting work on habitat enhancement, wildlife research and management projects. For more information, visit www.OutdoorRoadmap.com.

About OutdoorRoadmap.com
Remington Outdoor Foundation’s website, OutdoorRoadmap.com, is expected to become the single online source of information and services related to hunting, target shooting and conservation. By teaming with interested participants, OutdoorRoadmap.com will offer interactive maps and tools, special offers, event listings, training and licensing resources, and a wealth of outdoor information. OutdoorRoadmap.com will launch in 2010. For more information about this state-of-the-art platform, visit www.OutdoorRoadmap.com

Delaware's Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Weekend set for Aug. 27-29

Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife

Delaware --(Ammoland.com)- A few slots remain for the 2010 Delaware Becoming an Outdoors-Woman weekend set for Aug. 27 – 29, with registration closing Sunday, Aug. 1.

The BOW program provides women the opportunity to learn skills that encourage and enhance participation in outdoor activities, such as hunting and shooting, fishing and boating, and non-harvest activities.

Delaware’s BOW Weekend features four half-day training sessions that begin on Friday afternoon. Participants have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of course offerings during each of the sessions. Included among the many hands-on courses during the weekend are target archery, surf fishing, camping, shotgun shooting, basic boating, canoeing, fly-fishing, saltwater fishing, nature photography, and various other outdoor activities. The instructors of these courses have been selected for their expertise as well as their ability to provide instruction in a safe, supportive and non-competitive atmosphere.

This workshop is for you if:

• You have never tried these activities but have hoped for an opportunity to learn.
• You are a beginner who would like to improve your skills.
• You have some experience but would like to try your hand at new activities.
• You are just looking for camaraderie with like-minded individuals.

The cost of the three-day program is $200, which includes lodging, meals, instruction, and the use of all necessary equipment and supplies. Registrations will be accepted until Aug. 1, 2010. No refunds will be given for cancellations.

While Becoming an Outdoors-Woman is aimed primarily at women, it offers an opportunity for anyone 18 or older to learn skills that allow them to participate in numerous outdoor activities. Since the first BOW was held in Wisconsin in 1991, this exciting international program has expanded to 46 states and seven provinces with more than 80 workshops offered each year.

For more information, contact Lauren Johnson or Pearl Franklin, Aquatic Resources Education Center, by calling 302-735-8656. Registration packets are also available online at: www.fw.delaware.gov/HunterEd/Pages/BOWHome.aspx

For more information, contact Lauren Johnson or Pearl Franklin, Aquatic Resources Education Center, 302-735-8689, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

MALTA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Hunter Education classes are planned for Darby and Corvallis in August. Interested students can register online now at fwp.mt.gov. Follow links to Education and Hunter Education.

The Darby class is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 9 through Friday, Aug. 13 from 6-9 p.m. each evening. Students and their parent or legal guardian must also attend a mandatory orientation night on Monday, Aug. 2 at 6 p.m. Orientation and all classes are held at the Darby Elementary School cafeteria, 209 School Drive.

In Corvallis, students must register online and then attend a mandatory orientation night on Monday, Aug. 9 at 6 p.m. Classes are Aug. 16-20 from 6-8:30 p.m. Orientation and classes are held in the Corvallis Grange Hall, 130 Dutch Hill Road.

Students must be at least 11 years old and attend all classes to be certified. Class sizes are limited to facility and instructor capacity.

For additional questions or for help with online registration, call the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Missoula office at 406-542-5500.

All hunter education classes are free of charge. By state law, anyone born after January 1, 1985, must have completed the Hunter Education Course to buy a hunting license in Montana.

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

Federal Heights, Col --(AmmoLand.com)- A new suite of public service announcements produced by the International Hunter Education Association and Remington Outdoor Foundation promote fundamental safety messages supported by the IHEA.

The public service announcements focus on IHEA’s core messages such as “Hunting is safe,” “Hunters are committed to safety” and “The four basic rules of firearms handling.” In addition, they are available in a variety of sizes and formats for print, web and video and can be customized with an agency or organization’s logo and web address.

“I strongly urge every website, newspaper and magazine editor, every TV network, show producer and blogger to incorporate these public service announcements into their work,” said Tim Lawhern, president of IHEA.

“The messages are immediately understood, inspiring and extremely important. Not only do they serve as critical reminders to those within the hunting community, they show nonhunters just how committed we are to developing hunters who are safe, responsible and knowledgeable. That is vital to enhancing our image as hunters and thus upholding our hunting traditions long into the future.”

IHEA’s new public service announcements are available for viewing and downloading at Remington Outdoor Foundation’s website, OutdoorRoadmap.com, which is poised to become the preeminent online source for information and services for hunters, target shooters and conservationists.

“Remington Outdoor Foundation believes the efforts of hunter education instructors are one of the greatest untold success stories. And we want to help spread the word of how the IHEA, wildlife agencies and volunteer hunter education instructors have worked together to make hunting one of the safest forms of outdoor recreation,” said Jim Moore, president of Remington Outdoor Foundation.

Visit IHEA PSAs to view and download these public service announcements or contact Tammy Sapp at remingtonoutdoor@att.net to request a DVD.

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

ESTES PARK, Colo. --(Ammoland.com)- Hunter education volunteers and professionals from Canada, South Africa, Mexico, Peru and the United States are convening for the International Hunter Education Association’s (IHEA) annual conference at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colo., June 3-5.

“The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Today’s Youth IS Tomorrow’s Legacy,‘” said Wayne East, executive director of IHEA.

“We’ll be focusing on how to effectively teach hunter safety and how to involve more people in the safe sport of hunting.”

The conference will feature several expert speakers including Grant Gregory, chairman of Remington Outdoor Foundation, who will share several new hunter education partnership initiatives. The keynote address will be delivered by Emilyn Sheffield, who chairs the Department of Recreation Administration at California State University Chico. Sheffield will provide an overview of the needs and characteristics of the different generations and how it applies to hunter recruitment and retention.

Conference seminars and speakers will cover a variety of topics including treestand safety, effective hands-on teaching through skills trails, safety and ethics in the media, new online instructor training, new training aids and outdoor survival.

Hunting is a safe activity and getting safer, thanks to the more than 70,000 hunters who volunteer to teach hunter safety, East said. In 2009 there were 265 hunting-related incidents reported to the IHEA. According to the most recent National Survey of Hunting, Fishing and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, there are 12. 5 million hunters aged 16 and older, meaning the incident rate for hunting is .002 percent. Of the 265 reported incidents, only 30 were fatal, placing the chance of being killed in 2009 due to a hunting-related incident at .00024 percent.

“In 2009, there were only four hunting-related incidents in Colorado and none were fatal,” East said. “Hunting is not only a popular activity here in Colorado as we are a destination big game State, it is also very safe.”

The Colorado Division of Wildlife is hosting the conference this year, which marks the first time Colorado has hosted this international conference. Other conference sponsors include Remington Outdoor Foundation, National Rifle Association, Winchester Ammunition and Hunter Safety System.

Next year’s IHEA conference will be in Wrightsville Beach, N.C., June 2-4, 2011.

About IHEA
Founded in 1972, the IHEA has 69 member agencies including every U.S. State, every Canadian Province/Territory, Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, South Africa and New Zealand. There are an estimated 70,000 volunteer instructors teaching hunter education to 650,000 students each year, making hunter education one of the best success stories of volunteerism in North America. The IHEA is based in Federal Heights, Colo. For more information, visit www.ihea.com.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Texas --(Ammoland.com)- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will be conducting a free Hunter Education New Instructor Training Workshop June 19, 2010, in Waco. Workshop will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Bledsoe-Miller Community Center located at 300 MLK Blvd.

“We will be training new applicants and currently certified instructors in skills trail, live firing exercises and home study procedures,” said Robert Ramirez, hunter education specialist with TPWD.

“The training puts fun and exciting activities into the learning experience. Students will benefit by going through actual hunting simulations and by making their own decisions regarding responsible actions using ‘shoot-don’t-shoot’ scenarios.”

Before you attend this workshop, you must go to the following web site and prepare yourself by going over the Introduction and the first four chapters of the instructor training manual. You will sign an acknowledgement and release that you have done this pre-workshop assignment as part of your training. The site is as follows: tpwd.state.tx.us/learning/hunter_education/instruct.phtml.

Every Texas hunter born on or after September 2, 1971, must successfully complete a hunter education course. The hunter education program’s goals are to reduce hunting-related accidents and violations; promote safe, responsible and knowledgeable hunting; and enhance hunting traditions and values.

Hunter education provides instruction in Texas hunting regulations, wildlife management and identification, conservation, ethics, firearm and hunting safety and responsibility and outdoor skills.

“By understanding hunting through education, hunters and non-hunters alike will help make a bright future for the sport. Now is the time to become involved, so let us know if you are interested in becoming an instructor,” Ramirez said.

To register, contact Brent Heath, TPWD Hunter Education Area Chief, at (254) 722-5660.

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Vermont --(Ammoland.com)- The Vermont legislature has passed Apprentice Hunting legislation aimed at reducing barriers to new hunters entering the field. House Bill 243 cleared its final legislative hurdle on April 30 and as of press time is waiting the signature of Governor Jim Douglas.

The measure, sponsored by Representative Steve Adams (R- Hartland), will allow newcomers to try hunting under the close supervision of an experienced mentor prior to the completion of hunter education.

It is also part of the national Families Afield effort by the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA), the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).

“We are pleased that legislators from both sides of the aisle came together to support this important piece of legislation that will help ensure the future of Vermont’s hunting heritage,” said Evan Heusinkveld, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA) director of state services.

The Families Afield initiative was established in 2004 in order to bring a new generation of sportsmen to the field. Since the program’s inception, Families Afield legislation has been passed in 29 states with 418,000 apprentice licenses sold to date. Other groups giving key support to the Vermont effort include the National Rifle Association, Vermont Traditions Coalition and Ducks Unlimited.

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance is a national association of sportsmen and sportsmen’s organizations that protects the rights of hunters, anglers and trappers in the courts, legislatures, at the ballot, in Congress and through public education programs. For more information about the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance and its work, call (614) 888-4868 or visit its website, www.ussportsmen.org.

Remington / IHEA Firearm Training Set

Remington Outdoor Foundation

Madison, NC –-(AmmoLand.com)- A new firearm training set produced by Remington Outdoor Foundation and the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) allows instructors to provide students with training that is hands-on and safe.

“The five firearms in this set include every action covered in IHEA’s curriculum. Plus, they are completely disabled so they cannot discharge,” said Tim Lawhern, president of IHEA. “This allows students to learn by doing with a tool that simulates an actual firearm in every way except for live fire.”

Every firearm in the set – the Remington 870 pump action shotgun, Remington 11-87 semi-auto shotgun, Marlin bolt action .22, Marlin lever action centerfire 30/30, and the H&R single barrel break action – features a blaze orange stock that is laser engraved with the IHEA and Remington Outdoor Foundation logos. These durable, high quality firearms are powder coated to make the metal parts resistant to rust and other elements.

A wheeled gun case is also available, allowing instructors to easily transport the firearms training set.

“We can’t thank Remington Outdoor Foundation enough for helping us design and produce the firearm training set,” said Lawhern. “This is the finest training aid ever developed for hunter education and firearms training. It will take IHEA’s safety training to a whole new level, helping us ensure students graduating hunter safety courses in 2010 and beyond are the safest hunters yet.”

The firearm training set is ideal for IHEA as well as for law enforcement instructors and those who offer safety training at events introducing youth, women and others to hunting and target shooting.

The 5-Firearm Training Set retails for $2,100 or $2,500 with the wheeled gun case. Nonprofit organizations can receive the special discounted price of $1,500 or $1,750 with the wheeled gun case.

Those living within the U.S. can place their order by contacting Tina West at Leorders@remington.com or 1-800-852-7634.

Canadians can contact Adriana Maciocia at Adriana.maciocia@gravelagency.com or 418-682-3000.

Order now, quantities are limited.

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

About International Hunter Education Association (IHEA)
The International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) is the professional association for 67 state and provincial wildlife conservation agencies, and the 70,000 volunteer instructors who teach hunter education in Mexico, Peru, South Africa, New Zealand and North America. For more information, visit IHEA at http://www.ihea.com/.

About Remington Outdoor Foundation
Remington Outdoor Foundation, which was founded in January 2009 as a nonprofit 501 (C) 3, supports the efforts of its partners to share hunting, target shooting and other outdoor traditions with youth, women and other participants while emphasizing safety, training and ethics. Remington Outdoor Foundation also upholds conservation principles through assisting partnership work on habitat enhancement, wildlife research and management projects. For more information, visit www.OutdoorRoadmap.com.

GoHuntGeorgia.com

WAYCROSS, Ga --(AmmoLand.com)- Designed with everything outdoors in mind, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division’s 3-day archery camp aims to educate and engage adventurous youth. Registration is now open for the camp, which is scheduled for June 1-3, 2010 at Laura S. Walker State Park in Waycross, Georgia.

“Archery camp is going to be three days worth of fun-filled outdoor adventures,” says Jen Pittman, shooting sports program manager with the Wildlife Resources Division. “This is a great opportunity to develop archery skills and to expose children to the exciting outdoor opportunities around them.”

Campers should expect constant activity, including target practice, fishing, outdoor exploration, wildlife identification and hunter safety presentations.

Camp is intended for youth ages 9-14. To register, an archery camp registration packet must be completed and turned in along with a $40 payment to the Wildlife Resources Division by May 26. Camp hours run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Need information about other archery summer camps? Find out more at www.georgiawildlife.com , select “Education,” “Shooting Sports” and “Archery Summer Day Camp.”

For more information or to obtain a camp registration packet, contact Matt Stewart at (229) 430-1847 or Matt.Stewart@dnr.state.ga.us