The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced on March 30 that it is seeking volunteers to serve as safety education instructors for its various outdoor programs. The department is looking for individuals interested in teaching hunter and bow education, ATV and UTV operation, snowmobile use, and boating safety.
These volunteer instructors play a key role in promoting safe outdoor activities throughout the state. According to Lt. Renee Thok, DNR hunter education administrator, “They leave a lasting impression with their students and help create a safe hunting environment for all who recreate in Wisconsin.” Thok also said, “Hunter Education takes great pride in our instructor corps, and we are looking for more exceptional individuals to help continue safe hunting in Wisconsin.”
Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator, said the contribution of instructors extends beyond hunting: “Wisconsin is safer because of the dedication of instructors, and we need more to join our teams.” The department outlined several requirements for becoming an instructor: candidates must be at least 18 years old, have experience with the relevant program area, be graduates of a Wisconsin safety course in that discipline, demonstrate commitment and ability to teach responsibilities effectively, show interest in ethics based on responsibility and respect, and pass a background check.
According to the official website, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources supports outdoor recreation by managing state parks, trails, forests, wildlife areas; focuses on conserving natural resources; manages efforts statewide; facilitates public input through advisory councils; enforces environmental laws; and offers services such as hunting licenses and environmental permits.
Interested applicants can learn more by visiting the DNR’s Become a Volunteer Safety Instructor webpage or contacting their local outdoor skills trainer. As demand grows for recreational opportunities across Wisconsin’s managed lands according to agency information, expanding the pool of trained educators may further support both public enjoyment and resource conservation.
