07-15-2008, 11:10 AM
In classrooms, libraries and even under tents and shade trees, a small army of volunteers work tirelessly each year to help prepare thousands of Idahoans for their first hunting excursion.
<br>"Since the inception of the hunter and bowhunter education programs, instructors have been the heart and soul to the success," says James Reed, hunter education coordinator for the Clearwater Region of Idaho Fish and Game. "More than 9,500 new hunters go through the programs each year. They learn about everything from how to safely cross a fence with a firearm to the importance of respecting wildlife, landowners and other hunters. And of course, we couldn't do it without them."<br>
<br>Becoming a volunteer instructor is a great way to give back to the community and to the resource, he said. More than 500 courses are held each year across the state, with most of them taught by volunteer instructors.<br>
<br>"The success of both programs really goes back to all the generous and hardworking volunteers who love kids and hunting," Reed said. "Whether you have one weekend a year to spare or you are able to help more often, there is a niche for everybody."<br>
<br>Volunteer instructors conduct courses after completing a certification process, which includes an eight-hour training workshop and a background check. The workshops, held at various locations throughout Idaho are open to anyone interested in volunteering to train and educate tomorrow's hunters.<br>
<br>"We encourage every hunter to consider becoming an instructor. Everyone has something they can share with those who are less experienced," Reed said. "By teaching others the safe and ethical way to hunt, we can ensure the sport will be around for generations to come."<br>
<br>A variety of lesson plans and teaching aids are available. Anyone interested in participating can obtain more information by contacting their nearest Fish and Game office, or visit Fish and Game's website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.<br>
<br>An instructor workshop will be July 19 at the Fish and Game Office, 3316 16th Street, in Lewiston. For more information, contact James Reed at 208-799-5010.
<br>"Since the inception of the hunter and bowhunter education programs, instructors have been the heart and soul to the success," says James Reed, hunter education coordinator for the Clearwater Region of Idaho Fish and Game. "More than 9,500 new hunters go through the programs each year. They learn about everything from how to safely cross a fence with a firearm to the importance of respecting wildlife, landowners and other hunters. And of course, we couldn't do it without them."<br>
<br>Becoming a volunteer instructor is a great way to give back to the community and to the resource, he said. More than 500 courses are held each year across the state, with most of them taught by volunteer instructors.<br>
<br>"The success of both programs really goes back to all the generous and hardworking volunteers who love kids and hunting," Reed said. "Whether you have one weekend a year to spare or you are able to help more often, there is a niche for everybody."<br>
<br>Volunteer instructors conduct courses after completing a certification process, which includes an eight-hour training workshop and a background check. The workshops, held at various locations throughout Idaho are open to anyone interested in volunteering to train and educate tomorrow's hunters.<br>
<br>"We encourage every hunter to consider becoming an instructor. Everyone has something they can share with those who are less experienced," Reed said. "By teaching others the safe and ethical way to hunt, we can ensure the sport will be around for generations to come."<br>
<br>A variety of lesson plans and teaching aids are available. Anyone interested in participating can obtain more information by contacting their nearest Fish and Game office, or visit Fish and Game's website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.<br>
<br>An instructor workshop will be July 19 at the Fish and Game Office, 3316 16th Street, in Lewiston. For more information, contact James Reed at 208-799-5010.