Bowhunting apprenticeship program

Service Description

Each session blends learning, mentorship and community connection. New bowhunters will leave with practical hunting competence, a certificate, and connection to community food resources. June 2026 June 22 (Mon) — Welcome Night & Launch, 5–8 PM (SAS) • Program kickoff, introductions, tour of facilities, overview of learning path and expectations. • Licensing info and CORE exam guidance. • Meet mentors, steering committee, First Nations and conservation partners. • Social BBQ — great opportunity to make friends and swap stories. July 2026 July 6 (Mon) — Biodiversity & First Nations Hunting Perspectives, 5–8 PM • Deep dive into island ecology and the impacts of deer over browsing. • First Nations perspectives on food sovereignty, stewardship and respectful harvesting. • Practical discussion: how cultural protocols shape behavior in the field. • Group reflection and commitment to ethical conduct. July 20 (Mon) — Bow Types & Setup: Recurve, Compound, Crossbow, 5–8 PM • Hands-on equipment setup and tuning with mentors; safety checks and legal requirements. • Target practice basics, sighting, arrow selection and maintaining your equipment. • Establish personal practice plans to reach certification. August 2026 Aug 3 (Mon) — Hunting Basics I: Methods & Safety, 5–8 PM • Overview of hunting styles (blind, stalk, tree stand), legal requirements for Gulf Islands. • Basic navigation: map, GPS, compass, and orienteering essentials. Aug 17 (Mon) — Hunting Basics II: Field Skills & Gear, 5–8 PM • Essential gear lists for varying conditions; how to prepare for a hunt. • After-shot procedures: tracking, recovery, and respecting property boundaries. • Field-dressing basics and disease awareness. Aug 31 (Mon) — Hunting Basics III: Group Hunts & Emergency Preparedness, 5–8 PM • Group safety and communication protocols for guided hunts. • First aid basics, accident response and what to do in difficult situations. • Transporting and temporary preservation of meat; respectful disposal of remains for landowners. September 2026 Sep 7 (Mon) — Shooting Examination, 5–8 PM • Practical shooting test with mentors evaluating accuracy, safety and handling. • Passing earns certificate eligibility. Sep 21 (Mon) — Butchering & Meat Care, 5–8 PM • Hygienic field-dressing and butchering basics, best preservation practices. • Cooking ideas and community sharing: quick demos on tasty, sustainable venison recipes. • Resources: local butchers, freezers and processing options.