Key Takeaways
- Montana is increasing investment in hunter education even as youth interest declines.
- Busy schedules for young people, two-income parents, and volunteer instructors are creating challenges.
- Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hired seven education technicians, one for each regional office.
- Technicians will help support the firearm safety program required for everyone born after Jan. 1, 1985.
Montana boosts hunter education amid participation headwinds
BRETT FRENCH | bfrench@billingsgazette.com
Montana is increasing its investment in hunter education while facing the headwinds of youngsters, their two-income parents and volunteer instructors being overscheduled with other activities.
FWP adds regional education technicians
Last year, the Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks hired seven education technicians — one for each of its regional offices.
Support for required firearm safety program
Part of the tech’s role will be to help with the firearm safety program that everyone born after Jan. 1, 1985, is required to take before …
FAQ
Why is Montana investing more in hunter education?
The state is boosting hunter education while facing declining youth interest and scheduling challenges for families and volunteer instructors.
What challenges are affecting hunter education participation?
The story cites youngsters, their two-income parents, and volunteer instructors being overscheduled with other activities.
How many education technicians did Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hire?
FWP hired seven education technicians, with one assigned to each regional office.
What will the education technicians do?
Part of their role is to help with the firearm safety program.
Who is required to take the firearm safety program mentioned?
Everyone born after Jan. 1, 1985, is required to take it before hunting (as described in the excerpt).