DNR to conduct hunter safety instructor training at Turtle Lake Town Hall

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Hunter Education section will conduct an All Day Range and Field Day (ADRF) instructor training session on Oct. 24, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Turtle Lake Township Hall. The hall is located at 19143 Lake Julia Drive NW, which is just north of Bemidji.

The majority of the training will take place outdoors and will focus on various field scenarios on a hunter trail. Scenarios will include hunting a variety of species, recovery of a deer, game identification, shoot/don't shoot decisions, tree stand safety, survival and more.

"We're looking for hunters, parents and volunteers who are willing to donate their time to help give back to, and perpetuate, the sport of hunting. They will play an important role by instructing and encouraging youth and other adults to hunt safely and responsibly," said Jim Hatlevig, DNR enforcement, hunter education training specialist.

Upon completion of the training, participants will become certified volunteer instructors who facilitate the required ADRF portion of the online Hunter Education Firearms Safety Course. Certified instructors act as mentors in the field, assisting students in both learning and demonstrating the commonly accepted principles of safety and responsibility involved with hunting and with the handling of firearms.

Those interested in attending the training session need to pre-register by contacting James Hatlevig at james.hatlevig@state.mn.us.