Since the inception, the Hunter Education Program has been primarily taught by volunteer instructors. Its purpose is to provide a quality program of instruction and training in hunter safety education for the young hunter in Iowa. Some of the program’s objectives are:
- To teach the safe handling of firearms and archery hunting equipment.
- To develop respect for the rights of landowners.
- To provide basic instruction in conservation and wildlife management.
- To teach game identification.
- To develop respect for all state and federal hunting and fishing laws.
- To teach the hunter how to develop a better attitude towards hunting.
Individuals who successfully complete this course are not expected to be expert hunters or marksmen. They are expected to have a better understanding of the responsibilities that go with the use of firearms. Certified instructors are expected to teach one student class and attend a continuing ed instructor workshop every two years.
Other instructor and mentorship opportunities exist on a limited basis in bowhunter education and furharvester education. For more information on these opportunities, reach out to the Outdoor Skills Specialist in your region.
To Become an Volunteer Hunter Education Instructor or Hunting Mentor
Minimum Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Submit an application provided by the Hunter Education Program.
- Submit to and pass a background and fish and wildlife violation check.
- Be a graduate of the Iowa Hunter Education Course
- Create and maintain an Iowa DNR Customer Account at gooutdoorsiowa.com
Certification Process and Requirements:
- Complete an apprenticeship consisting of either teaching a simulated class section or assisting a certified instructor to prepare and present a hunter education course to students.
- Complete the New Instructor Workshop which reviews the policies and procedures of the program, educational materials, teaching techniques and student assessment. These 6 workshops are held regionally throughout the year.
Contact your local Outdoor Skills Specialist for more information or to begin the application process!
Volunteer Hunter Education Instructor Resources