MDC offering a bowhunter education class in Kirksville

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is holding a bowhunter education certification class from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12 and Thursday, Nov. 13 at the MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore in Kirksville. The two-day course is free, but registration is required by Nov. 11.

Topics to be covered include modern bowhunting history and development; bowhunter responsibility and ethics; different types of bows and equipment; safety information related to hunting from an elevated platform; awareness about wildlife conservation and management; show placement, game recovery, trailing and field dressing; and rules and information unique to Missouri.

Those successfully completing the course will receive a bowhunter education certification card from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Students must be 11 years of age or older to attend.

"This course is an excellent refresher for veteran bowhunters or for someone new to the sport," said MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist Rob Garver. "Bowhunter education provides a foundation in hunting safety and ethics that helps hunters focus on more than just being successful in the pursuit of game."

While a bowhunter education certificate is not required by statewide game regulations, many Missouri cities that allow archery hunting inside their city limits require bowhunter-education certification. Additionally, many other states require bowhunter education before hunters are allowed to apply for or take part in bow hunts in their state.

To register for the program visit register-ed.com/programs/Missouri or for more information, contact Garver at Rob.Garver@mdc.mo.gov or 660-785-2420.

For more information about Missouri's bowhunter-education program visit mdc.mo.gov/node/9723.