HUNTER EDUCATION

The first Hunter Education (HE) courses, originally called hunter safety, were designed over 50 years ago with the main purpose of reducing hunting accidents. Every state now has HE courses, with over 25 million graduates since the programs were started. A decrease in hunting accidents of well over 50% show how effective these programs have been. Hunting is statistically safer than almost all other forms of recreation.
 
While the major purpose of HE programs is still the prevention of hunting and firearm related accidents, more and more emphasis is being placed on improving knowledge about the heritage of hunting. The importance of the young hunter developing a sense of ethics and responsibility is stressed. Both the first time and veteran hunters are encouraged to become involved in all matters related to hunting, wildlife, and the environment. Responsible, ethical behavior by hunters and personal involvement in the local community will be essential to the future of wildlife and the continuation of hunting for future generations.
 
HE courses in Wyoming are sponsored by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), and by similar wildlife management agencies in other states. The major sources of funding for these agencies are from sales of hunting and fishing licenses and from federal excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment. In Wyoming, there are over 350 volunteer instructors, training over 5,000 HE graduates each year. These volunteers donate their time, ability, and effort to share their knowledge and experience with HE students. Without the efforts of these volunteers the program in HE would not be affordable or possible.