Another group of hunters has earned certification following a full-house Hunter Education Certification Course hosted through a partnership between the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
The annual course is offered free of charge and once again drew a packed group of students seeking to learn the skills and safety practices needed for hunting.
The Sheriff’s Office credited numerous instructors, volunteers, sponsors and agency representatives with helping make the course possible. Special recognition was given to Josh Dahlem with DeSoto Parish Schools, who has helped lead the course for several years. Dylan Dickson and Pam Hunt were also thanked for their assistance and support.
Sheriff Jayson Richardson recognized Deputy Chief Phillip Daniels for his work organizing the event and creating an experience that extended beyond the certification requirements. Daniels helped secure sponsors and door prizes and decorated the classroom with taxidermy, wildlife mounts and other displays.
Organizers also made sure each participant received at least one door prize, including items that could be used as the newly certified hunters begin their first hunting seasons.
The course included a skeet shoot, providing some participants with their first experience using a firearm. Camden Ray and Victor Avila were named this year’s Top Shot winners.
The Sheriff’s Office congratulated all of the newly certified hunters and thanked those who attended, taught, sponsored or otherwise supported the program.
“From Sheriff Richardson and all of us at the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, congratulations to our newly certified hunters, and we wish each of you a safe, successful, and enjoyable hunting season,” the department stated.