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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says now is the time to sign up for a Firearms Safety Hunter Education class if you plan to hunt this fall. You can't buy a hunting license in Minnesota and many other states unless you've completed the training.
In Minnesota hunters born after December 31, 1979 must complete a DNR Firearm Safety Training Course or equivalent course from another state before purchasing a license for big or small game.
Hammer says the vast majority of volunteer instructors are also hunters. Their goal is to have most of the courses completed prior to the small game opener. They also want their students to enjoy a full season of hunting opportunities.
Hunters who don't start planning now frequently encounter problems when they hunt out of state as well. Many states have more stringent requirements than Minnesota when it comes to mandatory hunter education requirements. Colorado requires a hunter education certificate for anyone born after January 1, 1949, and neighboring states such as North Dakota and Iowa have requirements for those born after 1961 and 1967.
"If you have lost your certificate or have questions about certification from other states, now is the time to get a certificate in your hand so you won't miss the opportunity to hunt in Minnesota or take that trip of a lifetime to Colorado this fall," Hammer said.
Spring classes are now available but fill-up fast. For more information on classes in your area log on to www.dnr.state.mn.us or call 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367)
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