IDNR Classes

The purpose of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Safety Education Division is to promote public safety and environmental stewardship by providing comprehensive education and training programs related to outdoor recreational activities. These programs are designed to ensure that individuals participating in activities like hunting, boating, trapping, and snowmobiling are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to do so safely and responsibly.

Key goals of the division include:

1. Reducing Accidents: By offering safety courses that cover proper techniques, regulations, and best practices, the IDNR Safety Education Division helps prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities in outdoor activities.
2. Promoting Conservation: The division educates the public about the importance of preserving natural resources, wildlife, and habitats, fostering a sense of responsibility toward protecting the environment.
3. Ensuring Compliance with State Laws: Many of the safety courses provided by the IDNR are required by law for individuals to obtain licenses or permits for hunting, boating, and other outdoor activities. These courses ensure that participants understand and comply with state and federal regulations.
4. Fostering Ethical Behavior: The division emphasizes ethical outdoor behavior, teaching hunters, boaters, and others about the importance of safety, respect for wildlife, and consideration for other outdoor enthusiasts.

Overall, the IDNR Safety Education Division plays a critical role in maintaining public safety, enhancing outdoor experiences, and ensuring that Illinois’ natural resources are enjoyed responsibly for generations to come.

Hunter Education – November Class

Dates: November 29, 2024 @ 8AM to 4PM and November 30, 2024 @ 8AM to 11AM

Location: Highland Pistol and Rifle Club @ 13312 Bellum Rd, Highland, IL 62249

Notes: Please bring snacks, and drinks. Lunch will be provided by available for purchase from the club.

For More Information Email: [email protected]

Registration Link: Click Here

Hunter Education – December Class

Dates: December 27, 2024 @ 8AM to 4PM and December 28, 2024 @ 8AM to 11AM

Location: Edwardsville Gun Club @ 4104 Staunton Rd, Edwardsville, IL 62025

Notes: Please bring snacks, and drinks. Lunch will be provided by available for purchase from the club.

SPACE IS LIMITED TO 55 STUDENTS

For More Information Email: [email protected]

To Register: Click Here

Boater Education – February Class

Date: February 22, 2025 @ 9 am to 5 pm

Location: Holiday Shores Clubhouse @ 1 Holiday Point Parkway Edwardsville, IL 62025

Notes: Please bring snacks, and drinks. A light lunch will be provided (Donations Welcome).

Class Limited to 30 Students

For More Information Email: [email protected]

Registration Link: Click Here

Boater Education – March Class

Date: March 15, 2025 @ 8:00am to 4:00pm

Location: West Access Marina @ 14222 Lake Rd, Carlyle, IL 62231

Notes: Please bring snacks, and drinks. A light lunch will be provided (Donations Welcome).

For More Information Email: [email protected]

Registration Link: Click Here

Hunter Education – April Class

Dates: April 18, 2024 @ 8AM to 4PM and April 19, 2024 @ 8AM to 11AM

Location: Highland Pistol and Rifle Club @ 13312 Bellum Rd, Highland, IL 62249

Notes: Please bring snacks, and drinks. Lunch will be provided by available for purchase from the club.

For More Information Email: [email protected]

Registration Link: Click Here

Boater Education – IHSA Boater ONLY CLASS

*** NOTE THIS IS FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE PARTICIPATING IN THE IHSA BASS FISHING TOURNAMENT ***

*** IDNR STAFF AND KEY INSTRUCTORS WILL BE ONSITE TO PREFORM THIS CLASS DON’T MISS OUT ***

*** IDNR OFFICERS ONSITE DOING SAFETY CHECKS AND LIVE BOAT DEMOS! ***

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Date: June 5, 2025 @ 7:30am to 4:30pm

Location: LITHIA SPRINGS MARINA | 2060 E. 1500 NORTH ROAD | LAKE SHELBYVILLE, IL 62565

Notes: Please bring snacks, and drinks. A light lunch will be provided (Sponsors Welcomed).

For More Information Email: [email protected]

Registration Link: Click Here