NY hunting & trapping education courses beginning

[STWA]

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reminded all new hunters and trappers planning to go afield this upcoming hunting and trapping season that they must first complete a mandatory hunter, bowhunter or trapper education course before they can obtain the appropriate sporting license or hunting privilege.

DEC works closely with thousands of dedicated DEC-certified instructors statewide to provide these training courses free of charge. Courses are offered for Hunter Education, Bowhunter Education, Trapper Education and Waterfowl Identification. However, courses fill up quickly, so those interested should sign up for a course soon to be sure they complete it before going afield this fall.

With the DEC on-line registration system, viewing a list of all available hunter and trapper education courses with the student's proximity to course locations can be easily done. Students can register from any device—smartphone, tablet or computer—24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Education courses are added continuously throughout the year, so be sure to check the on-line system frequently to find a course near you. To locate a nearby hunter or trapper education course, visit DEC's website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7860. html or contact a local DEC office for assistance.

New course homework requirements instituted this year

All hunter education and trapper education courses now require students to review course materials and complete a homework sheet prior to attending the classroom and field sessions. The new homework portion of the course provides an introduction to the subject and enhances the students’ understanding of the course material. Proof of the completed homework is required in order to attend the classroom and field portions of the course.

Access to the homework materials and online homework options can be found on DEC’s website at: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/ 7860.html. Actual course manuals and homework sheets are always available from DEC wildlife offices and sportsman education instructors.

View the full article on STWA website