OSBURN — Individuals interested in hunting and archery are invited to register for an upcoming Hunter & Bowhunter Certification Instructor-Led Course at the McGillivray Environmental Center in Osburn on Friday, Aug. 14, and Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026.

The two-day certification course will be taught by certified instructor Ben Allen and is open to students ages 9 and older. Participants will receive comprehensive instruction in firearm and bowhunting safety, hunting laws and ethics, wildlife conservation, outdoor survival skills, shot placement, game care, blood trailing, tree stand safety and responsible hunting practices.

Allen has been vocal in recent years about the importance of preserving instructor-led courses at a time when online options have become more prevalent. He hopes continuing hands-on instruction will help future generations of hunters remain responsible both in the field and in the safe management of firearms at home. Allen said lessons learned in the classroom often lead to productive conversations between students and their families.

“At young ages, children are often moldable and receptive to instruction on topics they may not be familiar with,” Allen said previously. “As such, we often find that children go home at the end of a course and can take the information they received to facilitate healthy discussions with their parents or guardians about topics in the home such as responsible storage of firearms or resource management and conservation.”

Unlike the traditional format, which typically begins after the start of the school year and operates as a weeklong after-school program, this course will be offered over two days before the end of summer break. Students who successfully complete the course will be able to participate in Idaho’s upcoming hunting seasons.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive both Hunter Education and Bowhunter Education certification cards.

Students must attend all class sessions and successfully complete required field exercises and a written examination to earn certification.

The course is recommended for both new hunters and bowhunters seeking certification. Idaho residents born on or after Jan. 1, 1975, are required to complete a hunter education course before purchasing a hunting license unless they qualify for an exemption. Bowhunter education certification may also be required for participation in certain archery hunting opportunities.

Participants should bring a sack lunch and water each day. A 30-minute lunch break will be provided. No microwave or refrigerator will be available on-site.

Registration is currently open, with limited seating available. The course fee is $8 per student.

Classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the McGillivray Environmental Center, 630 E. Mullan Ave. in Osburn. For additional information or to register, visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game hunter education registration page at idfg.idaho.gov.