Hunting upholds tradition, legacy

HURON TWP. — Have you ever had someone ask you, "Why do you hunt?" There are a number of possible responses that could be offered. I'm certain that, probably at the top of the list, would be memories. I realize that it may not be for everybody, however, for those who do embrace it, they can speak of emotions hard to put into words from their own personal experiences. Hunting also serves multiple purposes, and at the top of that list is wildlife population management. Of course, filled tags also equate to more affordable food in the freezer. And it does serve as a good tool for conservation, particularly in helping to balance animal populations with healthy ecosystems while reducing more than a few human-wildlife conflicts. I might also mention what it does for the economy through the sales of licenses, hunting equipment and all the related amenities. If this might be your first go around, the one thing I would highly recommend is taking a hunter education course, especially if you are planning to go on a hunt here in Ohio, seeing as all first-time hunters in this state must have successfully passed the test in a hunter education course. The exception would be someone who is hunting on an apprentice license. Participating in a hunter education course will help you to have a better hunting experience while significantly reducing the potential for any dangerous mistakes. These courses are purposely designed to prepare you for the hunt, keep you safe throughout the hunt, speak about good ethics and increase your odds of being successful in harvesting the animal. Want to go? A free hunter education course is slated to take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13 at the Huron Township Conservation Club, 2121 Huron Avery Road, Huron. Here you will learn about safety best practices, pick up a few shooting tips: whether shotgun, rifle, muzzleloader or archery. You'll also hear about survival techniques and gain knowledge of safe and legal firearm handling. Seating for this course is somewhat limited, so I would highly encourage you to pre-register for this event. You can easily do this by: • Going to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' Division of Wildlife's website • Clicking on the "hunter education" link • Selecting "hunter education course" • Choosing the course option of "find a course near you" Once you tag the Huron Township Conservation Club, click on "register" and fill out all the required information. People can contact me at 419-626-5211 or at twhite@eriecounty.oh.gov with any questions or additional assistance.