September 2, 2015 - An enhanced hunter education course was held on the Center High School campus on Saturday, August 29, 2015 with Texas Game Wardens Anthony King and Nathan Skeen leading the instruction.
The students, of which there were 40, learned from Game Wardens in the Center High School Library following which they participated in a skills trail in the park.
While out on the trail the students were introduced to Kirk Sanford of Dependable Arms. Sanford explained some important points of proper firearm handling and safety. Firearms which Sanford used for examples included a bolt action rifle, lever action rifle and semi-automatic AR-15. Another important item Sanford stressed is for anyone hunting from a tree stand to use a safety harness.
The class then moved to a table displaying multiple deer skulls with antlers. The Game Wardens used the skulls as examples of legal and illegal deer. Participants were offered the opportunity to examine the skulls and even measure the distance between the antlers to understand the difference.
Skeen and King put on a mach demonstration for the students with Skeen portraying a dove hunter and King a Game Warden on patrol in the woods. Through the demonstration the students learned do's and don'ts while out hunting including being mindful of littering, what's in firing range and the legal amount of ammunition which can be loaded while hunting.
Students were introduced to a variety of trapping options by the Game Wardens and another demonstration was given involving duck hunting which was performed by Skeen assisted by Spencer Anderson of Gregg County who is seeking to become a Game Warden.
Following the skills trail, the students returned to the school cafetorium where they were treated to lunch provided by Jason Pyles, Good Times Smokehouse. Students then took the final test for their hunting license. The game Wardens were very appreciative of Pyles; Jessica Shadix, Center FFA teacher; and Kirk Sanford, Dependable Arms; who all participated with the program.
Another hunter education course will be held at Shelbyville High School on Saturday, September 12, 2015 starting at 8:30am The cost of the class is $15 and a light lunch will be provided. Call the Shelbyville High School office 936-598-7323 for more information.
