Sheriff’s office offers hunter safety course

By Brandi Makuski

The Portage County Sheriff’s Office is offering an in-person hunter safety course starting on June 10 at the Sheriff’s Office Training Room.

The comprehensive course will each the knowledge and skills needed to be responsible and safe hunters.

Classes will be held on Monday, June 10, Tuesday, June 11, Thursday, June 13, and Tuesday, June 18, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. A mandatory field day will take place at the Dewey Public Shooting Range on Saturday, June 15th, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. The course fee is $10, and anyone 11 years or older can attend.

“Hunter education is crucial for ensuring the safety of all those who enjoy Wisconsin’s great outdoors,” said Sheriff Mike Lukas. “Our course covers everything from firearm safety and wildlife identification to ethical hunting practices and conservation principles.”

Participants will learn about hunting accidents and how to prevent them, responsible hunter behavior, and the importance of adhering to hunting regulations. The course includes lectures, demonstrations, group discussions, practical exercises, and individual study assignments.

“We strongly encourage anyone interested in hunting to take this course,” said Deputy Austin Anderson, one of the course instructors. “It’s an excellent opportunity to learn valuable skills and knowledge that will enhance their hunting experience and ensure their safety and the safety of others.”

Pre-registration is required for the course. Interested individuals can register through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) GoWild website.

For more information, contact Deputy Austin Anderson at 715-346-1400 or [email protected].