New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded all new hunters and trappers that registration for required hunter education classes is now open.
Courses fill quickly and interested hunters and trappers are encouraged to register early. Each year, more than 45,000 New Yorkers take DEC's hunter and trapper education courses.
Commissioner Seggos said, "Hunting in New York is a proud tradition that helps us manage our state's incredible natural resources. Before getting their license and going afield, all new hunters and trappers must complete a hunter, bowhunter, or trapper education course. I encourage all prospective hunters and trappers to sign up for one of the hundreds of courses offered across New York over the next several months by our dedicated volunteer instructors. We're proud of our hunting safety record in New York, in part because of DEC's Hunter Education Program, which teaches the principles of safe, ethical hunting."
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 Hunter Education.
DEC's online registration system makes it easy to view a list of available courses. Students can register from any device-smartphone, tablet, or computer-24 hours a day, seven days a week. Courses are added continuously throughout the year, so those interested should regularly check the online system to find a course near them. To locate a hunter or trapper education course, visit DEC's website or contact a local DEC office for assistance.
Students must complete homework prior to attending the required classroom and field course. The homework portion of the course provides an introduction to the subject and enhances students' understanding of the course material. Proof of the completed homework is required to attend the course. Students should register for the course well in advance of the course date to allow time to complete the homework requirement, which can take several hours.
Access to the homework materials and online homework options can be found on DEC's website or you can follow the guidelines listed in the course announcement when you register for a course. Course manuals and homework sheets are always available from DEC wildlife offices and Hunter Education Program instructors. http://www.dec.ny.gov/press/press.html
