COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a Bowhunter Education Class at its regional office in Columbia. This free course will provide participants with the opportunity to become certified in bowhunter safety.

The course will be offered over two evenings, Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 25-26, from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Attending both sessions is necessary to receive certification. It is open to anyone 11 years and older. Registration is required by Aug. 21. Applicants can register online at www.register-ed.com/events/view/64005.

Though not required by statewide hunting regulations, achieving bowhunter education certification has a number of advantages. Many cities that allow archery hunting inside their city limits require that bowhunters be certified to take part. Many other states require bowhunter education before hunters are allowed to apply for or take part in bow hunts in their state. Additionally, the course is an excellent refresher for veteran bowhunters.
Topics covered during the class will include:
• Modern bowhunting history and development

• Bowhunter responsibility and ethics

• How archery equipment works, bowhunting and tree-stand safety

• Wildlife identification, game care, survival and first aid skills

• Shot placement, game recovery, trailing and field dressing

• Awareness about wildlife conservation and management

• Rules and information unique to Missouri

This class is an International Bowhunter Education Foundation (IBEF)/ National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) course and recognized by all states and Canada.

To learn more about the bowhunter education class, contact MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist Brian Flowers at brian.flowers@mdc.mo.gov or (573) 815-7901 ext. 3388. For more information about Missouri's Bowhunter Education program visit mdc.mo.gov/node/9723.