Hunter Education Program Exceeds Half Million Students Taught

Interested in hunting? Start with a Hunter Education Course

Richmond, VA — Since the introduction of mandatory Hunter Education in 1988, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) has certified more than a half million men, women and children through the Hunter Education program. This is an impressive milestone for the program and for the Department.

Hunter Education is taught primarily by trained volunteers. Conservation Police Officers also participate in the program, because of the impact on public safety. Since 1988, there has been a 25% reduction in the rate of firearms-related hunting injuries.

Virginia's basic Hunter Education course covers hunting safety, principles of conservation, and sportsmanship. Specific topics include safe handling of firearms and archery equipment, tree stand safety, first aid, proper care of harvested game, ethics, landowner relations, wildlife management, wildlife identification, wildlife laws and more. The course is free of charge and is taught statewide. To find a course near you, visit our Web site at www.HuntFishVA.com.

As fall approaches and temperatures begin to cool, hunters across the Commonwealth look forward to spending time in the outdoors. For many Virginians, hunting is a family tradition passed on from generation to generation. For those who do not have that heritage, but have an interest in learning more about hunting, a Hunter Education course is a good place to start. Not only do participants learn safe practices and basic skills, but they also have an opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals. Novice hunters are encouraged to participate in VDGIF Outdoor Education programs tailored to specific groups. VDGIF offers special workshops and hunts for women, youth and disabled hunters. To learn more, visit "Upcoming Events" on our website www.HuntFishVA.com.

Hunting safety was a priority for the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries long before Hunter Education became mandatory. Our conservation police officers and thousands of volunteer Hunter Education instructors have carried that safety message to Virginians and found great rewards in mentoring novice hunters. To learn more about becoming a Hunter Education instructor, contact Sgt. David Dodson at david.dodson@dgif.virginia.gov.