Hunter Education Program

Photo by Dion Dizon

Community Contributed

By Dion Dizon

Photo courtesy of Arlene Ogura

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Hunter Education Program on Molokai owes its long time success to volunteers, Master Instructors Uncle Billy Akutagawa and Gary Zukeran, and staff April at Na Pu`uwai. With Uncle Billy retiring from the program and Gary on temporary leave for a church mission, DLNR is happy to welcome its newest volunteers instructors, Jerry Flowers, Daniel Juario, Jr., and John Thoene on Molokai and Master Instructor Arlene Ogura from Oahu.

The Hunter Education Program offers two classes, Basic Hunter Education and the Bowhunter Course. Whether you intend to hunt or not, the 12-hour basic class is appropriate for anyone interested in conservation, safety, and the responsible use of Hawaii’s natural resources. The basic class is taught over the course of two days, and it is now offered in a hybrid format that combines a self-paced online portion and in-person classroom instruction followed by the written exam. Every person who passes the exam with a minimum score of 75 percent receives a certificate, which is needed in order to purchase a hunting license. You must be 16 years old in order to attend the class alone, however, students age 10 to 15 may attend with an adult chaperone.

The next Molokai class is scheduled for May 4-5 at the Mitchell Pauole Gym conference room. Class size is limited, and standbys are accommodated on a first come first served basis. For more details about the hybrid class and to register for the next class, go online to https://gohunthawaii.ehawaii.gov.

The last class was held Feb. 2-3, and pictured here is the next group of soon to be licensed hunters. Mahalo to you students in the February class for your commitment and success. Happy hunting!