FWP to set up hunter/bowhunter education advisory committee

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is forming a committee to develop recommendations to enhance the hunter and bowhunter education programs, with a particular focus on field days and bolstering the ranks of instructors.

“With the increase in online education, and the resulting need to offer additional in-person field days, our education programs need to adapt,” FWP Director Hank Worsech said. “We’re interested in working with people who are as passionate as we are for making sure graduates of our courses know how and where to hunt safely, legally, and ethically.”

The advisory committee will meet at least twice this spring for day-long meetings. The group will review the manuals, online programs and field day outlines, and develop actionable recommendations for Worsech and the hunter/bowhunter education staff to implement.

Committee members should also plan on spending some time outside of meetings to review course materials and complete other homework.

During the past two years, many hunter and bowhunter education students in Montana have been certified through the online course. Last year, in-person classes increased dramatically from 2021, when COVID concerns limited in-person activities.

Students interested in taking hunter or bowhunter education this year can take advantage of FWP’s free, in-person courses. Find a class here. Online options are also still available as well.

People interested in participating in the hunter/bowhunter education advisory committee should email Communication and Education Division Administrator Greg Lemon at glemon@mt.gov. Please include the reasons you’re interested, where you reside and a bit about yourself. Ideal applicants will have an interest in working with a diverse group of people to find common solutions.

Application emails are due by March 4.