In the spring issue FLIGHT, I reported that SGT David Dodson, State Hunter Education Coordinator for the VDGIF, had volunteered to assume the role of IBEP coordinator for the Commonwealth of Virginia. I mentioned that a core cadre of IBEP instructors would be developed from the current population of the VDGIFs certified Hunter Safety instructors from around the state. Once a sufficient number of Hunter Safety instructors have also been cross trained as IBEP instructors, these individuals will serve as the lead instructors for IBEP classes across the state.

I’m very pleased to report that this initiative is moving forward! This Sept. the first IBEP Instructor Class was held at the Holiday Lake Education Center (near Appomattox, VA), with new IBEP instructors from various areas around the state (Virginia Beach, Stafford, Woodbridge, Bastian, Fredericksburg, Meadowstown, Aylett, Clearbrook, Indian Valley, Wirtz, Saltville, Oakwood, Stuarts Draft, Powhatan, to name a few) being trained and certified.   These instructors are the first of many more, as the VDGIF continues to expand this program over the next several years.

So where should you go if you want to see if an IBEP class can be scheduled in your area? Sgt. Dodson indicated that archers should contact the appropriate regional hunter education coordinators if they need a class. A list of regional offices and contact numbers can be found on the internet at: www.dgif.virginia.gov/about/offices.asp. The regional coordinators have a list of instructors to call on and can assist you in getting in contact with an IBEP instructor. There have already been a few classes scheduled and conducted. As more become available, they can be found at the VDGIF web site (look for IBEP course): http://my.register-ed.com/panel/statelanding/VA?

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