2/7/2007

Time to Register for Hunter Education Classes

Adults and children looking to take a hunter education class in 2007 should enroll now as some classes are beginning to fill up, and others are already underway, according to Jim Carter, hunter education coordinator for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

As of Feb. 1, more than 80 percent of the classes scheduled for 2007 are listed on the Game and Fish website, gf.nd.gov. "We have 173 classes listed, with only a few left to work out some of the scheduling," Carter said. "People need to understand that 70 percent of all classes take place by the end of May, and that hardly any are available during late summer and fall because most of the volunteer instructors are pursuing their own outdoor activities."

Individuals can sign up for a class by accessing the Game and Fish website, and clicking on the online services tab, and "online course enrollment" under the hunter education heading. Classes are listed by city, and can also be sorted by start date. To register for a class, click on "enroll" next to the specific class, and follow the simple instructions. Personal information is required.

Individuals who do not have access to the internet and want to sign up for a class can call the hunter education program in Bismarck at 328-6615.

State law requires anyone born after Dec. 31, 1961 to pass a certified hunter education course to hunt in the state. Hunter education is mandatory for youth who are turning 12 years old, and children can take the class at age 11.