MA: Hunter education

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NEW HUNTERS! SIGN UP NOW FOR COURSES

New hunters of all ages are reminded that it is never too early to sign up for a Basic Hunter Education course. First time license buyers in Massachusetts are required to show proof that they have taken a Basic Hunter Education course in order to purchase a hunting or sporting license. Basic courses are available across the state and some will be scheduled to start in August and September.

"Many people fail to consider enrolling in a course until the weather turns cool in late September," says Susan Langlois, Hunter Education Administrator. "Unfortunately, most courses have either begun or are full by then and the opportunity to hunt during the fall may disappear." Langlois points out that courses are scheduled through much of the calendar year, including the summer, but most are offered in the spring and early fall. Basic hunter education courses average 15 hours in length, are taught by volunteer instructors, and are offered in different formats to help meet the public's needs. Students must attend all scheduled sessions as part of the requirement for passing the course. Courses are provided at no charge to participants.

Topics covered during the course include safe handling and storage of hunting arms and ammunition, hunting laws and ethics, wildlife identification, wildlife management, care and handling of game, basic survival skills and first aid. Students who successfully pass the course receive a Certificate of Completion that is accepted for purchasing a Massachusetts hunting or sporting license and for people 15 or older making application for a Firearms Identification Card with their local police departments. The certificates are also accepted in North America for the purchase of a hunting license.  Course schedules are posted online at www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/education/hed/hed_basic_listing.htm. Past graduates who have lost their Certificates may obtain a Duplicate Certificate from the Hunter Education Program either on line, or by calling (978) 772-0693.

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