International Hunter Education Association
Field Day Research Project
Submitted by Rod Slings
(dba: Natural Resources Connections LLC)
1436 Primrose Lane Waukee, Iowa 50263
[email protected] 515-250-0205
May 2008
Final Survey Results
May 2008 Final Field Day Survey Results
This research project is part of the ongoing efforts of the International Hunter Education
Associations (IHEA’s) mission to continue the hunting heritage worldwide by developing safe,
responsible and knowledgeable hunters. This survey has been funded by a grant awarded to
the IHEA for specifically the following purpose and objective:
Purpose and Objective
The purpose and objective of this research is to ascertain whether there is a difference in the
frequency of hunting incidents in states that do require a “field day” as part of their hunter
curriculum versus those that do not. As per the definition of the term “field day” it is the actual
hands on instruction of firearm safety fundamentals through field and/or simulated classroom
activities, explained and demonstrated at a Hunter Education Course.
The method of instruction demonstrated through a live fire or exercise in which firearms are
handled. It is under the direct supervision and interaction of a Hunter Education Student with a
Hunter Education Instructor who will determine the measured outcome of the objective based
on accepted safe firearm handling standards. Compared to an explained and/or demonstrated
by an Instructor or via the Internet with no “field day” or a pass-out type of challenge exam
proctored in a non-classroom atmosphere.
Justification
With the collaboration of member states to continue to meet the mission of the IHEA and also
adapt to social, political, NGO and agency influences, the gathering of this information is
imperative. As IHEA standards are agreed upon and periodically reviewed, this compilation of
data will help in the decision making process and the need for certain data collected from
incidents that take place. The impacts or need for a “field day” verses “no field day” in our
continued mission of keeping hunting a safe activity.
State Data Requested for Survey
1. Please indicate in your response to this request which state you represent, the name
and title of the person responding to the request.
2. Do recent or historical records of hunting incident investigation data collected indicated
as to whether the “shooter” involved in the incident had hands on (field day) instruction
versus no hands on (no field day) instruction?
3. In the case of a documented investigation that indicates no field day; further follow-up
information may be requested.
Please respond only to and directly to [email protected] prior to April 15, 2008. The data
collected will be entered into a spread sheet. Also, this survey shall be retained and
copyrighted by the IHEA for future use.
Thank you for your cooperation in the collection of this important data.
A 2nd Request for Follow-up Data was sent for additional details:
I would like to have those that DID respond please provide the additional information
below, also, those that did not respond please provide an estimate of how many classes in your
state or province offer or require the follow:
a. State / Province Responding (
)
b. Field Day not required, but ___% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. What ___% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
This will provide all IHEA members and other interested parties with a good sample of
responses.
Note: Those states and provinces in Red Font did not respond to requests for survey data:
State and Province Responses to Survey May 2008:
Alabama
Agency Site: http://www.outdooralabama.com
Hunter Education Site: http://www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/education/
1. Ray Metzler, Hunter Education Coordinator, Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater
Fisheries, 64 North Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36130
2. Our hunting incident investigations do not indicate as to whether or not a shooter or victim
participated in a hand on activity as part of their hunter education training. Our hunter
education data does not indicate whether or not individual students completed hands on field
day. We do require a field day for all alternative delivery (CD and internet). Traditional courses
may or may not include a field day or hands on activities.
Ray Metzler
Alaska
Agency Site: http://www.state.ak.us/local/akpages/FISH.GAME/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/education/huntered/huntered.cfm
Arizona
Agency Site: http://www.azgfd.gov
Hunter Education Site: http://www.azgfd.gov/h_f/hunting.shtml
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Last revised 12/5/06
HUNTER EDUCATION
FIELD DAY
PHILOSOPHICAL APPROACH
Opportunity to customize specific topics and areas of instruction to individual classes
and students. At a minimum, the first portion of the field day will include hands-on
exercises and demonstrations targeted at enhancing student skills gained in the
classroom, during independent study, or elsewhere including the Beyond Fair Chase
exercises. However, at every opportunity instructors should emphasize hunter ethics
and safety, continuing education and the opportunities available for students. This can
be achieved through attendance and participation at agency sponsored camps as well
as other shooting sports, e.g., sporting clays, trap and skeet, and additional activities
such as orienting, survival, archery, muzzle-loading, etc. available through agency
sponsored mentor programs.
At the instructors’ discretion, and time allowing, students may be allowed to actively
participate in the firearms and other demonstrations as appropriate.
Consider current or anticipated weather conditions before assigning a specific time for
the field day to be conducted.
The following activities and training will meet the minimum education requirement(s).
OVERVIEW
During range training, instructors are required to maintain direct supervision of students
at any time live ammunition is in use. At no time should students be allowed to possess
live ammunition or firearms except under direct supervision of an instructor. Students
wishing to use a range after class must remove themselves from the class location and
follow all rules of that range.
In any activity, one instructor shall be responsible for supervision of all training activities.
Students will fire twelve rounds of .22 long rifle ammunition, using a minimum of two
shooting positions. During live fire, each group of students will have a minimum of one
instructor per five students.
Disposable earplugs are furnished by the Arizona Game and Fish Department for each
student and must be used. Responsibility for student compliance is with the Instructor.
Instructors shall require all participants to wear eye protection while on the firing line. No
other activity in the Hunter Education program demands as high a level of instructor
supervision and excellent judgment. Any and all course objectives must be secondary to
safety during live fire.
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
In the event that someone is injured during a class it is most important that the
instructors have a plan of action. Instructors should meet before field day to discuss
what each will be responsible for. It is suggested that a first aid kit be readily available
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Last revised 12/5/06
and that someone who knows how to use it be present. It would also be helpful to have
communications available to call for help. A cell phone would be advisable in the more
remote field locations.
STUDENT (MINIMUM) REQUIREMENTS:
1. Students will observe the Beyond fair Chase VHS video / DVD as their first
activity, prior to the examination if possible / practical and discuss the concepts
presented afterward for approximately 30 – 40 minutes. The Beyond fair Chase
VHS video / DVD may also be presented during chapter six (Hunter
Responsibility and Ethics). This can be accomplished as a station if there are too
many students to observe on a small video player or laptop after the examination
if necessary.
2. Through field (and/or simulated classroom) activities, explain and demonstrate
the four primary rules of firearm safety (TAB+1) which is: Treat every gun as if it
were loaded, Always point the muzzle in a safe direction, Be sure of your target
and beyond, +1 Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot).
3. Explain and demonstrate proper loading, unloading and safety mechanism(s)
while handling at least two firearms with separate types of actions and “dummy
ammunition” supplied by instructor (courteously acknowledging and accepting
firearm with action open, gun pointing in safe direction at all times, knowing
action type, correctly carrying and matching ammunition, knowing location(s) of
safety). Students and instructor must ALWAYS demonstrate TAB+1 when
handling firearms.
4. Correctly match at least three caliber/gauges of ammunition with their respective
shotguns/rifles/handguns among an assortment of ammunition/firearms.
(Firearms and ammunition laid out on a table or flat surface and student matches
correct ammunition with matching firearm).
5. Demonstrate how to determine whether barrel is free from obstruction with both a
rifle and a shotgun (always point in safe direction, open action, check to be sure
chamber/magazine is unloaded, check from breech and/or use appropriate
accessories such as a barrel light).
6. Demonstrate making a firearm safe for transportation in a vehicle, boat and or an
ATV, or while entering an elevated stand (2-6 ft.) and/or ground blind. (Firearm
always pointed in a safe direction, unloaded, checked, cased, ammunition
separate, hauling line, sling, etc.).
7. Demonstrate two safe methods for crossing an obstacle or hazardous terrain;
one method alone, the other method while with a partner.
8. While demonstrating an awareness of left-handed and right-handed shooters,
display safe zone of fire and appropriate carrying method(s) using a shoulder
gun, while walking two/three abreast and while walking two/three in a single file
(position within the group may vary). Encourage conversation by student(s) to
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Last revised 12/5/06
determine the appropriate position for each hunter within their group. Insure each
student maintains an appropriate and safe spacing throughout this exercise.
9. Demonstrate safe shot selection (for example: considering various backgrounds,
shot placement, angles of shot relative to tree stands, quartering away and other
similar shots, skyline animals, shooting into a group of animals where more than
one may get hit. Present and discuss safe/unsafe, and unethical shot
opportunities guiding the discussion, but seeking examples from the students.
Also discuss TAB+1 with heavy emphasis on the target, its surroundings and
what is beyond.
10. Demonstrate safe handling of rifles and/or shotguns (alternate-airguns) through
simulated and/or live firing exercises including safe muzzle direction at all times;
safe loading/unloading and shooting procedures; adherence to range
commands/instructions; and the use of eye and ear protection. (Another
opportunity for TAB+1!)
• Through live-fire and/or simulated live-fire activities, demonstrate an
understanding of rifle marksmanship including proper positions(s), sight
alignment, sight picture, and sight adjustment. Loading and shooting
procedures/techniques; or, demonstrate an understanding of shotgun
shooting principles including proper stance, mount and shooting
techniques/swings/leads.
11. Demonstrate cleaning procedures for a rifle and shotgun, and make them safe for
storage (always pointed in a safe direction, unloaded, checked, cased, and/or
placed/locked in a gun safe, ammunition stored and locked separately, gun
locks/accessories in place, etc.). (Another TAB+1 opportunity!)
12. After an orientation by the instructor, students must demonstrate the proper use
of a compass to establish their current position and ability to “take a relative
bearing.” Student should also be able to orient a map and identify a minimum of
three ground features on the map, relative to their established position.
SHOOTING DEMONSTRATION(S):
A concern inherent in Hunter Education classes is the lack of time available for hands-on
training and the use of demonstrations. Any demonstration(s) other than those listed
below MUST receive prior approval by the Hunter Education staff BEFORE it is
implemented.
At this time, approved demonstrations must consist of at least three (3) of the following,
with one incorporating a shotgun:
* Use of a .22 caliber rifle and/or a large caliber center-fire rifle to demonstrate the
power of the bullet when striking a grapefruit, large potato, bar of soap or other
examples.
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Last revised 12/5/06
* Use of a high power rifle to strike a can of water or juice sitting on a coin or
washer placed on a metal plate on top of a cinder block.
* Use of a shotgun to demonstrate the power of a shot shell striking a cabbage
from a distance of 10 to 15 feet. If using a 410, the distance should be within 10
feet. A jug of water is also a good demonstration target.
* Use of a shotgun and balloons to demonstrate shot pattern relative to
understanding knowing your target and the effect of shot on what is beyond.
(Primary balloon target is approximately 10 yards away from shooter. Secondary
targets are 25 – 30 yards beyond the first, but in a direct line beyond the primary
target).
* An optional archery demonstration dealing with penetration, compared with a
firearm into a large box or gallon jug of sand.
* A high power rifle can be used to shoot a block of ice to demonstrate the energy
transfer.

Arkansas
Agency Site: http://www.agfc.com/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.agfc.com/huntereducation/index.html

California
Agency Site: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/index.html

Colorado
Agency Site: http://www.wildlife.state.co.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/Hunter Education

Connecticut
Agency Site: http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2700&q=323414&depNav_GID=1633
Hunter Education Site:
http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2222&q=320790&depNav_GID=1633
Connecticut has always (1982) utilized a field day in its firearms hunting courses and the vast
majority (95%) of them utilized live fire as part of the field day up until 1995 when we made live
fire mandatory. Now virtually all our course have a field day component involving live fire. This,
however, does not mean that all utilize a firearm shooting live ammunition, we do allow the use
of laser guns and air guns in situations where real live shooting would be a problem.
The other activities in the field day are comprised of the normal fence crossing, stream crossing,
tree stand usage scenarios. I have also encouraged demonstration of blood trailing in the
firearms field day where and when possible.
I have attached a copy of our currently used field day outline that I wrote back in 1989 with a
few revisions over the years.
Since most since 1982, and all our firearms hunting students since 1995 have experienced some
sort of 'live fire', it is impossible to answer the question as whether this has made a difference
in the accident rate. Our accident rate is extremely low anyways so using it as a statistical base
for a year to year comparison is difficult. We are fortunate that we rarely have more than a
couple accidents per year.
Attachment:
CONNECTICUT
CONSERVATION EDUCATION/FIREARMS SAFETY PROGRAM
INSTRUCTOR’S GUIDE FOR THE
FIREARMS HUNTING STUDENT FIELD COURSE
The purpose of the field course is to give the student some experience in realistic situations
while being observed by an instructor. This practical training is a very important part of the
CE/FS program. Make sure all safety points are covered and discussed with the student at each
station. If an actual field course is unavailable, a simulated one can be set up indoors or outside
by using string or rope and chairs. Use your imagination.
Rope or string could be strung between two chairs to simulate a fence. Two lengths of rope
could be placed on the floor parallel to each other, six feet apart to simulate a stream. Pieces
of paper might be taped to the floor or placed on the ground to simulate stepping stones. A
trunk of a motor vehicle may be the top of a table framed by books, etc.
If a student fails to understand the concept in any category, the situation in question should be
discussed until fully understood. The student should then be rechecked. Since this is the
practical evaluation and in many ways a summary of the safety portion of the course, as much
time as reasonable should be spent here in helping the student become and remain a
responsible safe hunter.
Observe the following points for each topic.
1.
Transfer the firearm from one person to another.
Hand the gun to the student. Ideally, the student should ask you to open the action before
taking the gun in hand. When the student takes the gun from you, the muzzle should be
pointed in a safe direction with fingers off the trigger and the action opened immediately. The
chamber should be inspected both visually and manually to insure that it is not loaded.
2.
Have the student identify the firearm.
The student should be able to determine: what type of action, the location of the safety button
or lever and the caliber or gauge of the gun. Have the student point to the caliber or gauge
designation on the gun and show you how they would check the ammunition to make sure that
it is the proper ammunition for the firearm. Have the student demonstrate the use of the
safety button or lever, first showing the on position, then off or fire position.
3.
Demonstrate the loading of the firearm.
The student should check to insure that the barrel and chamber are clear of any obstruction.
Check for gauge or caliber of gun. Check the ammunition to make sure it matches the firearm.
Use dummy ammunition only. DO NOT EVER use live ammunition. The student should be able
to open and lock the action smoothly. Watch for muzzle control. Have the student
demonstrate where the load-limiting plug is located in the auto-loading or slide action shotgun
magazine. The instructor should explain how to put in and remove the plug from the magazine.
4.
Demonstrate carry when hunting alone.
If hunting alone, almost any standard carry may be acceptable. The side or elbow carry and the
cradle carry are good. However, the best would be the two-hand ready carry. Check for the
safety position. It must be on! Finger must be outside the trigger guard. Watch for muzzle
control.
5.
Demonstrate carry when hunting partner is on the right or left.
The cradle carry, muzzle pointing left, is suitable for right-handed individuals. The reverse is
appropriate for a left-handed person. The two-hand ready carry is best for muzzle control so
long as it is pointed up or opposite the hunting partner.
•
•
•
•
6.
Identify safe shooting zones of fire.
Watch for finger position. It must be outside the trigger guard.
The safety must be on.
Watch for muzzle control.
Demonstrate carry when walking single file. - [partner in front]
Depending on the circumstances, a few carries may be suitable here. When the hunters are
walking to the hunting area, the gun should be unloaded and the action open. Walking single
file, the elbow, cradle and shoulder carry is good. For maximum control, the two-hand carry is
best. The safety must be on. Watch muzzle control.
7.
Demonstrate carry when walking single file - [partner in rear]
While walking to hunting area, the gun should be unloaded with action open, cradle carry,
elbow carry, trail carry or the two hand carry is appropriate. The shoulder carry is
inappropriate. Safety should be on. The two-hand carry is preferred. Finger must be outside
the trigger guard. Watch for muzzle control.
8.
Demonstrate meeting another person face to face while hunting.
The student should immediately break the gun open or open the action of the auto-loader,
slide action or bolt action. If using any dummy ammunition, it must be removed from the
chamber.
9.
Demonstrate what to do with firearm when sitting down to rest.
Student should unload the firearm, open the action and place the gun in a secure location,
preferably flat on the ground with muzzle pointed away from people. The firearm muzzle must
be pointed toward a safe direction at all times.
10.
Demonstrate crossing a wire fence - [alone]
Upon reaching the fence, the student should unload the firearm and place the gun in a secured
position on the other side of the fence. With muzzle pointing away from the hunter, they
should cross over, crawl over, under or slide through. The fence should not be crossed while
carrying the firearm.
11.
Demonstrate crossing a wire fence - [with partner]
Upon reaching the fence, all firearms should be unloaded. If only two hunters, the partner
crosses fence and is handed both firearms singly. They may hold firearms in hand, muzzle
pointed in a safe direction. If there are more than two hunters, all firearms should be handed
singly to the first hunter across and placed on ground in a secure position, muzzles pointed in a
safe direction. The other partners cross the fence and travel continues.
12.
Demonstrate crossing a stone wall.
Hunting singly, the student should unload the firearm and lay it carefully on the wall and cross.
Muzzle should be pointed away from the hunter. For protection of the firearm, a garment may
be used under the gun but the student should not take off the orange clothing.
If hunting with a partner, one hunter should cross first following the above procedure. The
partner would follow with muzzle pointing away from the first hunter who has already crossed.
Preferably, the same procedure as in the fence crossing would be utilized, however, it is not
always possible due to the width of the stone wall thus making it difficult to reach across safely.
They may have to walk across using the two-hand carry.
•
Have student cross a wall starting with the sling carry if sling equipped firearm is available.
Student should remove firearm from shoulder, unload and follow procedure as above and cross
over.
13.
Demonstrate crossing a stream.
The firearm should be unloaded and carried with the two-hand or trail carry to have good
balance. The student should be cautioned to look for secure footing and not step on slippery
algae covered rocks or rocks that are tipsy. It is better to wade through shallow water than to
risk a fall from insecure or slippery stones. Crossing in cold weather may present another
dangerous situation because of unseen ice under the water. In the case of a fall into icy water,
the risk of hypothermia is significant.
14.
Demonstrate the placing of a firearm in a vehicle.
The student should open the action of the firearm and unload. He should also check the
chamber to insure that it is positively empty before putting the gun into a carrying case. The
firearm should be placed barrel first, holding the butt of the gun, muzzle pointing away from
the passenger compartment. It should always be placed sideways in an automobile trunk.
15.
Demonstrate removing a firearm from a vehicle.
The student should firmly grasp the firearm at the butt end of the carrying case. The gun
should be removed butt end first and immediately checked to see if it is unloaded by opening
the action and looking into or feeling the chamber.
16.
Demonstrate a method of lifting a firearm up to a tree stand.
Without having the students actually climb up to a tree stand, have them demonstrate the
attachment of a rope or other strong cord to the firearm in a manner that would enable them
to lift the gun safely to the elevated stand. The gun must be unloaded and chamber cleared
before attaching the cord which then should be secured tightly just in back of the balance point
of the gun. When lifting, the muzzle should be pointing down or away from the hunter.
•
Show the student how to set up a loop or cradle method to lift a firearm. Cut a short piece of
cord and make a loop by attaching it at the pistol grip and forearm of the stock. Tie another
"lifting" cord to the middle of the loop and position it so that the muzzle is tilted toward the
ground as the gun is raised. Make sure all knots are tight to prevent a slip which may allow the
firearm to point upward toward the hunter.
•
Discuss the need to check the chamber and barrel for obstructions when ready to hunt. Bark,
dirt, snow or other debris may have entered the action or barrel in the lifting process.
17.
Following a blood trail [optional, but encouraged]
Mix up a simulated blood mixture (formula in Appendix A) and use a water bottle with a screwon sport type push-cap to create a trail over a fifty to seventy-five yard course. If brush cover is
available, place a discovery object such as a piece of camouflaged clothing or an actual deer
hide in a partially concealed location at the end of the trail. If it is a large class, split it into two
or three groups to allow for more personal observations as the group follows the trail.
In setting up the trail, you should create different effects by leaving evidence such as single
drops of the mixed interspersed with larger spots. Place the mixture on leaves, grass, rocks and
even against the bark of trees or bushes in line with the simulated trail.
1989-DRK
rev: 12/95, 2/01, 7/05
reprinted July 2005
CE/FS/Publications
APPENDIX A
1c
2T
10
2t
DAVE KUBAS’S FORMULA FOR SYNTHETIC TRAILING BLOOD
light corn syrup
water (enough to make the syrup flow easily but remain slightly viscous)
drops of dishwashing detergent
red food coloring to give sufficient color
Mix well in bottle to dissolve the syrup with water and then add the detergent and coloring.
For normal effect, use it without shaking. The detergent is included to allow for a foaming
effect when the mixture is shaken. Add slightly more water if the foaming effect is insufficient.



Delaware
Agency Site: http://www.fw.delaware.gov
Hunter Education Site: http://www.fw.delaware.gov/HunterEd/HunterEd.htm

Florida
Agency Site: myfwc.com
Hunter Education Site: myfwc.com/huntersafety
Florida
1.William Cline, Section Leader for Hunter Safety and Public Shooting Ranges
2. Florida currently requires a mandatory field day for all hunter safety participants.

Georgia
Agency Site: http://www.gadnr.org/
Hunter Education Site:
http://www.gohuntgeorgia.com/content/displaynavigation.asp?TopCategory=7

Hawaii
Agency Site: http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/dcre/home.htm

Idaho
Agency Site: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/
Hunter Education Site: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/education/hunter_ed/

Illinois
Agency Site: http://dnr.state.il.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://dnr.state.il.us/safety


Indiana
Agency Site: http://www.in.gov/dnr
Hunter Education Site: http://www.in.gov/dnr/lawenfor/hunt-edu.htm
1.Indiana, Captain David Windsor
2. Our investigation data does not include this information.
David
2. Iowa
Agency Site: http://www.iowadnr.com/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.iowadnr.com/law/hunter/index.html
1. Iowa, Rod Slings Recreation Safety Programs Supervisor Law Enforcement Bureau
2. Iowa historical data collected does not include this information since records began in
1964. Iowa Law does require demonstrating safe gun handling at a Hunter Education Class
although a pass-out test that requires 95% of 100 questions does not require a demonstration.
3.
4. Kansas
Agency Site: http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/hunting/hunter_education
a. State / Province Responding ( KS )
b. Field Day not required, but ___% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
Field Day is not required but about 1/3 of classes have a full blown Field Day involving a trail
walk, live fire, handling exercises. All the rest have some type of handling exercise in class.
c. What 45% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
Mostly shotgun but some 22 rifle and a growing number are using the pellet ranges owned by
the Instructor Assn.
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
To be classed as a Field Day, instructors must conduct a trail (safety) walk, a live fire experience
and a hands-on gun handling exercise with various action types and dummy ammo
(Department provided ONLY!!!!).
Wayne
5. Kentucky
Agency Site: http://fw.ky.gov
Hunter Education Site: http://fw.ky.gov/navigation.asp?cid=145&NavPath=C151
6. Louisiana
Agency Site: http://www.wlf.state.la.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wlf.state.la.us/hunting/education/
a. John E. Sturgis Louisiana
b. No, we use the IHEA hunting incident form which does not indicate one way or the other.
c. Education Program Manager
d. Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries
2nd Survey Follow-up
a. State / Province Responding (Louisiana)
b. Field Day not required, but ___% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
Field Day Required
c. What ___% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
All courses require live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
All courses conduct live fire regardless as to whether standard taught or field day through
alternative delivery.
7. Maine
Agency Site: http://www.state.me.us/ifw/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.state.me.us/ifw/education/safety/index.htm
a. Maine
b. Michael Sawyer, Recreational Safety & Vehicle Coordinator, Maine
c. Maine does not require a field day in HS. Incident records do not gather any info on this
subject. Mgs
8. Maryland
Agency Site: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/nrp/education/index.html
a. 1.VIc Maccallum Hunter Education Coordinator/Supervisor
2.NO
Response to Survey Follow-up
a. State / Province Responding (Maryland)
b. Field Day not required, but ___% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
Field Exercises Required in all classes
c. What ___% of classes actually have, but not required live fire: all have live firing--required
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
9. Massachusetts
Agency Site: http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw
Hunter Education Site: http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/dfwhecl.htm
1.Susan Langlois, Program Administrator, MA Division Fisheries and Wildlife Hunter
Education Program
2. No record regarding type of instruction
Susan Langlois, Wildlife Biologist
MA Hunter Education Program Administrator
P.O. Box 408
Westiminster, MA 01473
978.632.7648 ext 102
[email protected]
www/mass.gov/masswildlife
10. Michigan
Agency Site: http://www.michigan.gov/dnr
Hunter Education Site: http://www.michigandnr.com/hunting/recnsrch.asp
11. Minnesota
Agency Site: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/firearms/index.html
a. State / Province Responding (MN)
b. Field Day is required, 100% have loading and
unloading demonstrations
c. What ___% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term,
Field Day in your area: Field day is a required part of certification; We have Mandatory field
walk, firearms transportation in a motor vehicle, firearms carries, crossing obstacles, blaze
orange demo, treestand demo, 15 rds .22 live fire, zones of fire. Optional include duck boat
safety and zones of fire, shotgun patterning and clay targets, shoot don't shot scenarios,
muzzleloader demo, Archery demo, handgun demo, large bore demo, skyline deer,
firearms/ammo demo
12. Mississippi
Agency Site: http://www.mdwfp.com/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Education/Huntered.asp
For the state of Mississippi we have the field day at the end of each class and will continue this
method.
This method give the student hands on with firearm and give the Instructor some ideal that the
students are capable of handle a firearm safe and the importance of keeping safety first.
13. Missouri
Agency Site: http://www.mdc.mo.gov/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.mdc.mo.gov/hunt/huntered/
14. Montana
Agency Site: http://fwp.mt.gov
Hunter Education Site: http://fwp.state.mt.us/education/huntereducation/default.html
15. Nebraska
Agency Site: http://www.ngpc.state.ne.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.ngpc.state.ne.us/hunting/programs/education/firearm.asp
1.Michael W. Streeter Hunter Education Coordinator
2. The only data we collect is if they are hunter education or bow hunter education certified
and what state they received the certification from. Sorry.
A field day or field experience is not mandatory in Nebraska at this time. Even if it were we
would not collect data from a shooter or victim on this. I am lucky to get their names and
addresses let alone most of the rest of the stuff on the Nebraska Hunting Incident report form.
A copy is attached for your use.
THERE IS NO LEGAL REQUIREMENT FOR ANYONE TO REPORT ANY TYPE OF HUNTING INCIDENT
IN NEBRASKA. A gun shot or stabbing wound that receives treatment at a medical facility must
be reported to the local law enforcement agency by the facility and/or doctor.
Michael W. Streeter, Hunter Education Coordinator
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
2200 N 33rd St P. O. Box 30370 Lincoln, NE 68503
402-471-6134 FAX 402-471-6130
HUNTER EDUCATION THE PATH TO FOLLOW
16. Nevada
Agency Site: http://www.ndow.org
Hunter Education Site: http://ndow.org/learn/classes/hunt/
17. New Hampshire
Agency Site: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Hunting/hunter_ed.htm
18. 1.New Hampshire, Pete Davison, Hunter Education Coordinator
2. Our Incident data collection does not record whether the shooter had hands-on
instruction or not. They do collect data on hunter certification (certified or not certified).
However our state has mandated a field exam since 1975 (and probably prior to that date), in
which proper demonstration of firearm handling and safety is a requirement.
Response to 2nd Request Follow-up:
a. State / Province Responding: New Hampshire (NH)
b. Field Day not required, but ___% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
In NH, a Field Day is required for HE, for both traditional classroom courses and our Home Study
Option. Not only must they pass their written exam, but a practical exam (thorough
demonstration/application of new knowledge and skills) to receive certification. I would
estimate that 100% of our hunter ed classes have loading and unloading
practice/demonstrations.
c. What ___% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
At least as far as I know, we do not capture this information in our database from the
registration cards passed into our office at the end of the courses. I would, however, estimate
that at least 85% of our courses are completed with a live fire component, and feel confident
that it is probably higher.
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
My definition of a Field Day is the learning opportunity to put new knowledge and skills
together, in a real-life environmental situation, in order for the student to demonstrate
competency (. The end result of any education or training effort is a permanent change of
behavior. Without the chance to apply and practice the newly learned knowledge and skills,
they are unable to internalize this "transfer of training", form acceptable habitats, attitudes and
values, accept new responsibilities and accountabilities, and perform new tasks with sufficient
success. The Field Day is a place to practice these new behaviors, and learn to be "successful".
Pete Davison
Hunter Education Coordinator
NH Fish and Game Department
11 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301-6500
(603) 271-0459
19. New Jersey
Agency Site: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/hunted.htm
20. New Mexico
Agency Site: http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/hunter_ed/index.htm
1.Mark Birkhauser Hunter Education Coordinator
2. The simple answer to your questions regarding "hands on" training is that every New
Mexico HE graduate has participated in hands on testing. We call them practical or
proficiency testing. New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
3841 Midway Place NE
Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 222-4733
[email protected]
21. New York
Agency Site: http://www.dec.state.ny.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dfwmr/sportsed/index.html
22. North Carolina
Agency Site: http://www.ncwildlife.org
Hunter Education Site: http://www.ncwildlife.org/fs_index_08_education.htm
NC does not require a field day.
We do require hands on with the action types but no live fire is required.
Captain Chris Huebner
Hunter and Boating Safety Coordinator
NCWRC
1717 Mail Service Center
Raleigh NC 27699-1717
919-707-0030
23. North Dakota
Agency Site: http://www.gf.nd.gov
Hunter Education Site: http://www.gf.nd.gov/education/instruction/hunteredcourse.html
24. Ohio
Agency Site: http://www.ohiodnr.com/wildlife
Hunter Education Site: http://www.ohiodnr.com/wildlife/Hunting/huntered/instructor.htm
25. 1. Matt Ortman
2. Ohio does not require a hunter incident investigation report to include whether or not a
person completed a field day. It currently is a yes or no response to Hunter Education
certified. Also, we do not require a field day for hunter education. Our home study
students must complete a "hands-on" completion session prior to taking the test. This
"hands-on" session does not include a live fire portion. These sessions are somewhat
simulated field exercises that can be completed indoors. Hope this helps!
2nd Request to Survey Follow-up
I will answer them the best I can and these would be estimates. See below.
a. State / Province Responding (OH )
b. Field Day not required, but 98% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations,
Done by instructor or the students
c. What 0% of classes actually have, but not required live fire, Live fire is prohibited in our
hunter ed program.
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
Our Home study completion sessions are designed to be hands-on for the students without live
fire. These sessions comprise about 25% of our total classes and a much smaller percentage of
our students since they are typically smaller classes. I don't have a good way to determine the
number of students.
W. Matthew Ortman
Hunter Education Coordinator
Ohio
ODNR, Division of Wildlife
2045 Morse Rd, Bldg. G
Columbus, OH 43229
Phone: 614-265-6544
Fax: 614-262-1171
Email: [email protected]
26. Oklahoma
Agency Site: http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/FAQs.htm#faqhe
27. Oregon
Agency Site: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/outdoor_skills/
Oregon does require that all students complete field day activities prior to earning their
certification. Students are instructed on and must show a demonstrated proficiency on
working actions, matching ammo, loading and un-loading, safely navigating obstacles, firearm
carries, and live fire. Some instructors choose to do some of these activities in their classrooms,
and those who do not have access to safe shooting locations are allowed to use BeamHit laser
systems for the live fire component of their classes.
28. Pennsylvania
Agency Site: http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view.asp?a=461&q=153086
29. 1.Philip Luckenbaugh Hunter-Trapper Education Division
2. No record exists for either. We only collect whether they completed a Hunter Education
Course.
3. In the case of a documented investigation that indicates no field day; further follow-up
information may be requested. N/A
Thanks!
Phil
Philip Luckenbaugh
Hunter-Trapper Education Division
Pennsylvania Game Commission
2001 Elmerton Ave.
Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797
TEL: 717-787-7015 FAX: 717-772-0542
[email protected]
2nd Response from Survey Follow-up from Keith Snyder
a. State / Province Responding (PA)
b. Field Day not required, but 100% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. What 20% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area: A
separate "Field Day" class does not exist per se in PA, but rather some classes break-out into
four (4) concurrent hands-on skill-based training stations, which last for a total of four hours.

Rhode Island
Agency Site: http://www.state.ri.us/dem/programs/bnatres/fishwild/
Hunter Education Site:
http://www.state.ri.us/dem/programs/bnatres/fishwild/huntered/index.htm
RHODE ISLAND
1.RESPONDENTS: JOY BORSAY AND KAREN UNSWORTH
2.NO
Response to 2nd Request Survey Follow-up
a. State / Province Responding (RI)
b. Field Day not required, but 100___% have classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. What _64__% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
range time live firing. Outdoor exercises and demos during the course.
Joy Borsay
Hunter Education Coordinator
DEM Division of Fish & Wildlife
30. South Carolina
Agency Site: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/education/hunted.html
1.Lt. Jim Wagers State Coordinator – Law Enforcement Education Section
2. South Carolina does not require a specific field day to complete our hunter education
course. Firearms handling is instructed and demonstrated in the classroom activities. We do
not specify on our incident reports if the shooter involved in the incident had a “hands on”
field day. We do certify students through an internet course, but we require the students to
come into the testing facility to take a proctored examination after they have completed the
internet course curriculum. The proctored examination requires that the student
demonstrate their ability to safely handle firearms and demonstrate the various carry
positions. If you need more information, please contact me.
Response to 2nd Request Survey Follow-up
STATE RESPONDING: South Carolina
100% of Classroom courses have loading and unloading demonstrations.
35% of our Classroom classes have live fire exercises, although live fire is not mandatory.
Lt. Jim Wagers
SCDNR
State Coordinator
Law Enforcement Education
803-734-3995
31. South Dakota
Agency Site: http://www.sdgfp.info/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/hunting/Safety/HuntSAFEIndex.htm
1.Curt Robertson Program Specialist-HuntSAFE Coordinator
2. I have several questions about this study and how the data is going to be interpreted. Let me
give you some examples: South Dakota does not require a field day but 90% of our classes do
participate in live fire. Would our information then go under the heading of "no required field
day"? I think this would be misleading. The IHEA incident report form that we use only asks
about hunter certification, not a field day. I assume that most states use the same form that we
do. How do we determine whether the people involved had a field day? How is the term "Field
day" defined? Is it actually live fire or just classroom instruction in loading/unloading? The
definition in the questions below consider live fire and/or classroom demonstration as both
fulfilling the requirements of a field day. I feel confident that we have 100% compliance in
classroom manipulation of firearms but not in live fire. Again, I think the information would be
misleading if SD is listed as a non "field day required" state with 90% live fire, while a state that
has the classroom demonstration but little live fire is listed as "field day required".
Thanks Curt
South Dakota Continued:
Curt,
Wayne forwarded your memo to me for response. You pose excellent questions regarding data
collection that I am going to defer to Rod to answer. You are right, even though 90% of your
students participate in a live fire exercise (what I had called a "field day"), your statistics might
skew the results since your classification would be non-mandatory. Therefore I am going to
suggest to Rod that he take a good look at the information that he receives to see whether he
needs to include another category, non- mandatory but "X" percent of students participate in a
live fire event. Thanks for your forward thinking.
Gary
Here is the survey data you requested:
South Dakota, Curt Robertson, Hunter Education Coordinator
No, we use the IHEA incident report form which asks for HE certification but makes no
reference to field days.
Thanks for following up on the survey to get a more accurate picture of differences between
the states when it comes to field days.
Here are my answers:
A. South Dakota
B. We do not require live fire. Approximately 10%-15% of our classes do not have a live fire. The
major reason for this is inclement weather on the day of the field day.
C. 85%-90% have live fire
D. A field day would include live fire
Curt Robertson Program Specialist-HuntSAFE Coordinator
SD Game, Fish and Park
412 W Missouri
Pierre, SD 57501
605-773-4506
32. Tennessee
Agency Site: http://www.tnwildlife.org
Hunter Education Site: http://www.state.tn.us/twra/hntclass.html
33. Texas
Agency Site: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/learning/hunter_education/
Texas does not indicate on the incident report if a shooter or victim has had a field day / live fire
activities or not. We do check to see if either was certified in hunter education or not. We could
go back and check to see if either had had field day or live fire activities on their record if
needed.
a. State / Province Responding ( TEXAS )
b. Field Day not required, but 65 % have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. 10 % of classes actually have, but not required live fire; 25% Have REQUIRED LIVE FIRE - FOR
HOME STUDY TESTING.
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
Field Day represents actually going out in the outdoors to go through a mock, simulated hunt
where students are required to go through shoot, don't shoot scenarios. They actually carry
firearms which represent the appropriate hunting tool that would be used for that particular
hunting scenario. It might be an air gun, shotgun or rifle and it may turn into whatever firearm
is required or needed for a particular scenario. Some instructors use dummy ammunition
where students actually load and unload the cartridge or shell as needed for the occasion.
We use several scenarios representing beginning the hunt, during the hunt and after the hunt
when tagging and field dressing the animal would normally take place. Ethics, responsibility,
game laws, safety, courtesy, landowner relations and dealing with the non-hunting public are
covered during these field day sessions.
Alternative methods acceptable would be to have actual simulation of field days and live fire
activities utilizing Laser Shot Simulation systems if inclement weather were to prevail and the
students were unable to utilize actual outdoor activities.
Follow-up response from Steve Hall:
Terry is right about the home study portion (Live firing and field courses are required) except
that the percentage is closer to 20% (home study enrollees versus the total number of
enrollees) based on the last five years of actual data. Many of the traditional (what Terry refers
to as 'classroom' below) are held in school without the possibility of home study or hands-on
(as much as we'd like them to use it of course.)
However, many of the standard two-day courses offer live fire and field as well.
In Texas, the total number of students that live-fire is 37% (Between 11,000 and 12,000
annually out of 30,000 - 32,000 students ave.) based on the last five years of data; 58%
complete field courses (between 17,000 and 18,000 annually).
34. Utah
Agency Site: http://www.wildlife.utah.gov
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/huntereducation/
35. Vermont
Agency Site: http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com
Hunter Education Site: http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/HE_Courses.cfm
1.Christopher Saunders Hunter Education Coordinator
2. No. Live fire has been mandatory since 2001.
Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
103 South Main, 10 South Waterbury, VT
(802) 241-3722
Virginia
Agency Site: http://www.dgif.state.va.us/
Hunter Education Site:
http://www3.dgif.virginia.gov/ClassSchedule/Outline.aspx?dept=Hunting&text=t
1.Sgt. David L. Dodson
2.Virginia's reporting system does not differentiate between "field day" and "no field day"
training with respect to hunting incidents. However, classes since 1988, when Hunter
Education became mandatory for young hunters, have mostly been "no field day." Still, there
has been a 25% decline in the number of hunting-related shooting incidents per 100,000
licensed hunters.
Response to 2nd Survey Request
a. State / Province Responding ( Virginia )
b. Field Day not required, but 80% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations.
Do you mean the students load/unload, or the instructor demonstrates? The number would be
more like 10% if each student must load/unload.
c. What 5% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
Instructors are encouraged and supported in both live fire and other outdoor practical activities
which enhance the basic course. The most common activities other than live fire are hunter
safety trails. Our Alternative Delivery course, which uses the IHEA on-line course, includes
firearm handling during the practical exercises but no live fire requirement.
Sgt. David L. Dodson
Hunter Education Coordinator
1320 Belman Road
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
540-899-4169
36. Washington
Agency Site: http://wdfw.wa.gov/
Hunter Education Site: http://wdfw.wa.gov/enf/huntered/
37. West Virginia
Agency Site: http://www.wvdnr.gov/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.wvdnr.gov/lenforce/education.shtm
a. State / Province Responding ( West Virginia)
b. Field Day not required, but 100% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. What 5% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
Our "Field Day" consists of 4 hands on guns demonstrations that include crossing obstacles,
loading and unloading, matching ammo with firearm and muzzle control. After those tasks are
completed a written exam is given. Demos are performed with deactivated firearms and
dummy ammo. Can be performed inside or out.
38. Wisconsin
Agency Site: http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/es/enforcement/safety/hunted.htm
a. Tim Lawhern
b. Our collection of data does not include information relative to whether or not a person who
graduated from hunter education had hands on field day activities or not; only if they took a
hunter education course.
Response From 2nd Survey Request Follow-up
a. State / Province Responding (WI)
b. Field Day not required, but 100% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. What 80% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
holding that portion of the course in a field setting (outside) including fence crossing, blood
trailing, carcass tagging, zones of fire, tree-stands, deer drives, distance judging, etc.
39. Wyoming
Agency Site: http://gf.state.wy.us/
Hunter Education Site: http://gf.state.wy.us/services/education/huntered/index.asp
Canada
40. Alberta
Agency Site: http://www.aheia.com
Hunter Education Site: http://www.aheia.com
Alberta- Dave Paplawski - Conservation Education Coordinator
We have a volunteer field day for all HE programs here. Live fire is used for approximately %30 (
5000) of all course graduates.
Our situation here in Canada is different because every HE student that hunts with a firearm ( %
99 in Alberta) have to get a Federal firearms license and a field day ( practical test) is given to
all. Test simulates safety in home, field, etc. Also field hunting situations are also tested. Each
person must get % 80 on this field component before they can apply for the federal license.
So in a back door sort of way we can safely say that %99 of all Albertans that hunt have a field
day/practical test before hunting!
Dave Paplawski
41. British Columbia
Agency Site: http://www.bcwf.bc.ca/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.bcwf.bc.ca/programs/core/index.html
42. Manitoba
Agency Site: http://www.mwf.mb.ca
Hunter Education Site: http://www.mwf.mb.ca/hunter_ed.htm
43. New Brunswick
Agency Site: http://www.gnb.ca/0078/f&w/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.gnb.ca/0078/f&w/huntered/index.htm
1. New Brunswick Canada Outdoor Education Coordinator, Tim Cameron
2. Do recent or historical records of hunting incident investigation data collected indicated as to
whether the “shooter” involved in the incident had hands on (field day) instruction versus no
hands on (no field day) instruction? That information is not directly indicated. The incident
report will state whether or not a Hunter Education course was taken and quite often the year
it was taken. Once the year is known it is easy to differentiate from practical training or not.
Any courses after 1994 required practical hands on training with altered live firearms and
deactivated ammunition to meet safety standards set out by the federal government.
2nd Request to Survey Follow-up
a. State / Province Responding (New Brunswick Canada)
b. Field Day not required, but 100% have just classroom loading and unloading demonstrations
c. What 15% to 20% of classes actually have, but not required live fire
d. Additional comments that will better help us understand the term, Field Day in your area:
Classroom hands on deals with ammunition identification (deactivated rounds), Proper
operation of firearm actions (5 actions in the classroom, 3 actions in the practical exam), Carry
positions tested, minimum of 2, shooting positions tested minimum of 2, Range commands and
ceasefire exercise tested, proper storage and transportation of firearms ( trigger and or cable
locks) tested, crossing an obstacle (typically a fence scenario) tested.
Field day would consist of firearm shooting .22 caliber, Shotgun 20 and 12 gauge, black power.
Also survival skills, first aid. Optional topics but usually included, archery and tree stands,
trapping, game care.
44. Newfoundland and Labrador
Agency Site: http://www.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/default.htm
Hunter Education Site: http://www.gov.nf.ca/env/wildlife/edu-train/index.htm
45. Northwest Territory
Agency Site: http://www.nwtwildlife.rwed.gov.nt.ca/
Hunter Education Site:
46. Nova Scotia
Agency Site: http://www.gov.ns.ca/NATR/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.gov.ns.ca/NATR/hunt/hunting.htm
47. Nunavut
Agency Site: None Listed
Hunter Education Site: None Listed
48. Ontario
Agency Site: http://www.ohep.net
Hunter Education Site: http://www.ohep.net
49. Prince Edward Island
Agency Site: http://www.gov.pe.ca/infopei/index.php3?number=16940&lang=E
Hunter Education Site: http://www.gov.pe.ca/infopei/index.php3?number=16940&lang=E
50. Quebec
Agency Site: http://www.fapaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/index1.htm
Hunter Education Site: http://www.fapaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/educ/formatio.htm
1. N.Tim Cameron BSc, Conservation Education Coordinator
2. That information is not directly indicated. The incident report will state whether or not a
Hunter Education course was taken and quite often the year it was taken. Once the year is
known it is easy to differentiate from practical training or not. Any courses after 1994 required
practical hands on training with altered live firearms and deactivated ammunition to meet
safety standards set out by the federal government.
N.Tim Cameron
Allocation and Education
Fish and Wildlife Branch
DNR
[email protected]
51. Saskatchewan
Agency Site: http://www.sasktelwebsite.net/safee/
Hunter Education Site: http://www.sasktelwebsite.net/safee/
52. Yukon
Agency Site: http://www.environmentyukon.gov.yk.ca/main/index.shtml
Hunter Education Site: http://www.environmentyukon.gov.yk.ca/hunting/heed.html
Survey Results:
Out of 50 States, 27 reported
Out of 13 Canadian Provinces, 3 reported
Conclusion:
Even with slightly over half of the states reporting back and only 3 provinces, it is safe to say the
data collection on incident reports are not collecting the needed documentation to substantiate
whether or not a field day experience aids in the prevention of hunting related firearm
incidents. Even a review of the IHEA Clearing House does not offer such findings.
Programs of prevention need to be fluid and always changing to meet the challenge of new or
changing ways or discovered issues. This survey confirms the need for the questions to be
asked of the shooter when a hunting related incident occurs. “During your hunter education
training, did you have the opportunity to actually handle a firearm and demonstrate your ability
to handle it safely?”
This survey includes a number of very good and thought provoking comments for Hunter
Education Professionals when it comes to “field days” and how the definitions vary, even with
the goal of the same end result such as from Pete Davidson of New Hampshire:
My definition of a Field Day is the learning opportunity to put new knowledge and skills
together, in a real-life environmental situation, in order for the student to demonstrate
competency. The end result of any education or training effort is a permanent change of
behavior. Without the chance to apply and practice the newly learned knowledge and skills,
they are unable to internalize this "transfer of training", form acceptable habitats, attitudes and
values, accept new responsibilities and accountabilities, and perform new tasks with sufficient
success. The Field Day is a place to practice these new behaviors, and learn to be "successful".
Pete Davison
Hunter Education Coordinator
NH Fish and Game Department
There is no question that the end result or goal of all surveyed seem to be the same. To keep
hunting safe! The “how agency’s get there” seem to differ. Can agencies defend mandatory
field days without the incident documentation collected?
The member agency’s of the IHEA must practice due diligence and add the questions needed as
part of the Data collection to their incident reporting process. To better understand that
process:
Data collection
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Definition
Data collection is a term used to describe a process of preparing and collecting data for example as part of a process improvement or similar project.
Data collection usually takes place early on in an improvement project, and is often
formalized through a data collection Plan [1] which often contains the following activity.
1. Pre collection activity – Agree goals, target data, definitions, methods
2. Collection – data collection
3. Present Findings – usually involves some form of sorting [2]analysis and/or
presentation.
A formal data collection process is necessary as it ensures that data gathered is both
defined and accurate and that subsequent decisions based on arguments embodied in
the findings are valid [3]. The process provides both a baseline from which to measure
from and in certain cases a target on what to improve.
References
1. ^ Establishing a data collection plan
2. ^ Sorting Data: collection and analysis By Anthony Peter Macmillan Coxon ISBN
0803972377
3. ^ Data Collection and Analysis By Dr Roger Sapsford, Victor Jupp ISBN
076195046X
Also included along with this survey document is an incident report adopted by Nebraska to
better understand the Data collection used by some agencies.