Youngsters in the Durango area can get a jump on the big-game hunting season through an Internet-based Hunter Education Course now being offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
The Internet course is a convenient way for prospective hunters to earn their hunter education cards. The class is open to anyone 18 years and younger.
The online section of the course can be studied at home but must be completed by March 14. Those who complete the online course then must participate in a daylong skills class – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 15 – at the La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. A parent or guardian must accompany any participants 12 or younger. Parents and guardians of all participants are welcome to attend the skills day course.
The skills class will include firearms safety, shooting, hunter responsibilities, wildlife regulations and other hands-on activities.
To obtain a safety card, students must pass a written exam and complete the live-fire exercises at the skills class. Rifles and ammunition will be provided. No personal firearms will be allowed.
Anyone in Colorado born after Jan. 1, 1949, who wants to hunt must earn a hunter education card.
To register for the class, visit http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting, click on “Hunter Education” and “Course Calendar,” forward the calendar to March, click on “Durango” on the adjoining list on 3/15, then follow the instructions.
For more information, call the Durango Colorado Parks and Wildlife office at 247-0855.
