New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Long Island Regional Director Cathy Haas today announced DEC’s Hunter Education Program is offering a two-day youth hunting safety course on April 12 and 13. This hands-on course is part of the State’s Youth Conservation Program to introduce students between the ages of 12 and 16 to the basic principles of conservation, hunter education, and general outdoor education.
“Long Island has a long tradition of hunting, and the Youth Conservation Program helps continue this tradition through to the next generation,” Director Haassaid. “DEC’s annual youth-focused hunter education program fosters responsible hunting and stewardship practices and provides the necessary tools to ensure youth participants will be successful and ethical hunters.”
The course will take place on April 12 and 13 at the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club in Manorville and is open to youth who have not yet taken their Hunter Education course. Applications must be returned by March 24, 2025, and can be found on DEC’s Hunter Education Program webpage under the “Long Island Youth Conservation Program” section.
This class is limited to 30 participants. Participants who successfully complete the program will receive their Hunter Education Training Certificate. This certificate is required to purchase a hunting license.
The Youth Conservation Program is part of the New York Open for Hunting and Fishing initiative. Since 1994, DEC’s Hunter Education Program, the New York State Conservation Officers Association, and the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club have sponsored this regional hunter safety event. The Open for Hunting and Fishing Initiative is an effort to improve recreational activities for in- and out-of-state hunters and anglers to boost tourism opportunities throughout the state. It includes the streamlining of hunting and fishing licensing and reducing license fees, improved access for fishing at various sites across the state, and increasing hunting opportunities in various regions.
These affordable opportunities support Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, to promote physical and mental health by helping New York’s kids and families put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings.
For more information or to register for the Youth Conservation Program, contact the DEC Hunter Education Office by phone at (631) 444-0255 or email.