The Massachusetts Hunter Education Program, which began in 1954 and is administered by the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife, was established to “protect life and public health, promote the prudent management and ethical use of our wildlife resource; foster a greater appreciation of the environment through education.” 1 This program is entitled to teach hunters the correct and safe skills for handling firearms as well as other hunting and firearm activities.The importance of this program is seen every year with the continued decline in hunting accidents and deaths.
Beginning hunters or hunters purchasing their first license in Massachusetts are required to successfully complete an educational program, and in Massachusetts this requires a hunting student to attend a basic hunter education course. This course is at least twelve hours long and can continue up to sixteen hours long. Hunter education courses are usually offered over several afternoons, over a weekend or a combination of a holiday afternoon and a weekend. While attending these courses, students will have the opportunity to learn more about firearms and hunting safety, Massachusetts hunting laws; wildlife management and poaching, proper care and handling of game meat as well as survival and first aid skills. These courses are open to hunters who wish to attend, but those over 18 must have their parents’ written permission to attend. No fee is charged for the hunting program. Students will need to bring a pen and paper to the location they have registered and dress for the weather as some of the program will be held outdoors. do not bring firearms or ammunition if these are needed by the instructor. After successfully completing the final written or verbal exam, students who are fifteen or older will receive a certificate and a patch while students who are fourteen years old
