Hunting and harvesting your own food is a long standing tradition in the state of Kentucky.  Each year thousands of hunter take to the woods and fields to harvest animals for additional and sometime all of their meat protein needs for the year.  With this way of life also comes a responsibility to be a safe and ethical hunter, and Hunter Education is where hunters of all ages can learn more about safe, ethical hunting practices.  This course helps to protect the hunter, other hunters, wildlife, and wildlife habitat for future generations.

For many years, Russell County had been without a local option for Hunter Education.  Beginning in the fall of 2022, Russell County ANR took on the responsibility of teaching hunter education courses in Russell and some surrounding counties.  Also during this time, we have helped other agents in the state to become hunter education instructors for their community.  Also this year, Russell County had a Hunter Education course in the local middle school.  This course took place with 7th grade students, who wished to receive their hunter education certification.  This is the first time in over 20 years that a course has been held in the local school system.

In total in the current fiscal year, Russell County ANR has helped over 200 people of all ages receive their Hunter Education certification.  With this effort we have made an impact helping to maintain hunting and its heritage in the state of Kentucky.