On the Hunt
Wisconsin’s DNR is educating the state’s next generation of outdoor enthusiasts on hunting’s history, culture and connection to nature.
Hunting has always been an important part of Wisconsin.
The state’s long and rich history with it dates back to Native American practices, and today, Wisconsin has millions of acres of land open to public hunting.
B ut in recent years, hunting’s popularity here has dwindled. Cultural shifts, more people living in cities than ever before, the industrialization of farming and other changes have led to fewer registered hunters in the state. Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources is working to reverse that trend and prepare the next generation of hunters. Through extensive practice, hands-on classes and in-depth training, the DNR supports programs and workshops that teach not only safety rules, but ethics, skills and an understanding of hunting’s connection to the environment.
“I n our programs, we look to answer questions and bust stereotypes,” says Emily Iehl, a hunting and shooting sports program specialist at the DNR. “Many people who hunt and who join our programs are interested in the environment, sustainable living, being close to nature and taking ownership over their impact on nature. It’s important to understand that hunting and shooting sports have a lot of benefits to offer for wildlife, nature, individuals and communities.”
With a goal of welcoming more people of all backgrounds to the practice of hunting, the Wisconsin DNR and partners offer Learn to Hunt and Outdoor Skills programs, all open to the public. Classes include rifle shooting, shotgun shooting, bow hunting, crossbow, deer processing and wild game cooking, providing comprehensive skill development for hunters of all levels.
F or someone interested in hunting independently, the DNR’s Hunter Education Course teaches firearm safety as well as responsible practices and practical exercises, in order to obtain a Hunter Safety Certificate. The Learn to Hunt program pairs those who do not have hunting experience or a personal
Interested Wisconsinites can check out upcoming DNR programs and classes at bit.ly/dnrlearn.
qualified mentor.
“Our volunteers are very open and interested in helping anyone who wants to learn about hunting and shooting, no matter their background,” says Iehl. “It is important for the general public to understand and support hunting. Anyone can hunt. Shooting sports are very inclusive of age, gender, ability and background.”
Hunting’s ties to nature can be seen at every stage of the process. From the hours of observation in the cold and quiet mornings, to the strategic choice in target, to the slow and visceral practice of processing, hunting brings people away from the busyness of modern life and helps them rediscover the human
connection to the world around us.
“We’re always looking to find a connection for people who don’t live directly adjacent to wild areas or public lands to help them learn about and care about hunting,” says Iehl. “Our goal is conservation, and hunting is just another tool in your toolbox to be able to connect with the natural world and appreciate nature and wildlife.”
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources dnr.wisconsin.gov
network of hunters with a