Hunter's Safety Courses:

We offer several NYS Hunter and Bow Hunter Safety Courses throughout the year. All first-time hunters, bowhunters and trappers must pass one or more courses before they can get a license in New York State . Trained instructors certified by the Department of Environmental Conservation teach safe and responsible outdoors practices and the important role of hunters and trappers in conservation. All courses are free of charge, but space may be limited. As hunting seasons approach, many classes are filled quickly. Sign up early!

Courses develop skills and attitudes which help students to be better hunters, and .... Respect people, wildlife, Nature Respect public and private property Practice safe and ethical behavior Appreciate man as a part of Nature Support conservation efforts Be examples of responsible hunting and trapping

Course Calendar

March 22, 2008 - 8am-6pm - - NYS Bow Hunter’s Safety Course

April 11-12, 2008 - Fri./6pm-9pm - Sat./8am-5pm - - NYS Fire Arm Hunter’s Safety Course

Course Requirements for Licenses:

* All Hunting and Bowhunting Licenses--To qualify for any license to hunt (with firearms or bows), the applicant must present either:
(1) proof that he or she successfully completed an approved hunter education course; or
(2) proof that he or she previously held a hunting license.

* Bowhunting--In addition to the requirements for all hunters, to qualify to hunt deer or bear with bow and arrow, the applicant must present either:
(1) proof that he or she successfully completed an approved bow hunter education course; (Note: Approved courses are International Bowhunter Education Program Courses or an equivalent course.
If in doubt, call toll free - 1-888-HUNT-ED2.) or
(2) proof that he or she previously held a New York State bowhunting license or stamp issued in 1980 or later

* Waterfowl Hunting--Requires a small game hunting license and a Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp. Only the basic hunter education course (see requirements for all hunters) is required for the license, but a Waterfowl Hunter Education course is required to hunt waterfowl on some special hunting areas.

* Trapping--To qualify for any license to trap, the applicant must present either:
(1) proof that he or she successfully completed an approved course in responsible trapping practices; or
(2) proof that he or she previously held a trapping license