Last Wolf Trapper Certification Class of the Year Scheduled in Idaho Falls

Trapper Education is optional for those who want to participate in general trapping, but Idaho Code requires a Wolf Trapper Certification class be completed and passed before a person can purchase wolf trapping tags. The last class scheduled for the Upper Snake Region will be held in Idaho Falls on Saturday, November 22. The 8 hour course starts at 9:00 AM and instruction includes both classroom and field experience followed by a written exam. Courses are offered periodically throughout the year, but most are offered in the fall and early winter when people are preparing to spend more time in the field. This also coincides with the time of the year when wolf hides are prime and have the most value. Advance registration is required and can be accomplished online at: http://tinyurl.com/IFwolftrap. The course costs $8 per student and registrants must be at least 9 years of age. The fee is due at the time of registration. Online registration by credit card requires an added convenience fee of $1.24. It is important that participants select the wolf trapping course, not general trapping. Because the class lasts most of the day, participants should bring their own lunches. The Wolf Trapper Certification course is instructor-led. Instructors are experienced trappers who are trained and certified to provide students with both classroom study and interactive, hands-on training. Course topics cover a wide variety of topics related to wolf biology, wolf behavior and management as well as specifics regarding wolf trapping. Instructors and IDFG staff leading the class have expertise in furbearer management, trapping laws and ethics, responsible trapping, proper equipment and trapping techniques. Proper care of the hide for maximum value and harvest reporting requirements are covered as well. Students successfully completing the wolf trapping course receive an Idaho Wolf Trapper Certification Card that enables them to purchase wolf trapping tags. Certified wolf trappers may purchase up to five gray wolf trapping tags per trapping season. Tags must be validated and securely attached immediately upon taking a wolf. Anyone with questions about this Wolf Trapper Certification course can call 208-525-7290.