Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin Q&A
Q: What is Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin?
A: Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin is an organization dedicated to helping hunting and wildlife conservation groups recruit and retain new hunters to maintain Wisconsin’s hunting heritage along with the social, environmental, and economic benefits it provides. The Network is dedicated to creating ethical and educated hunters that value wildlife, family, and the environment. This is a joint effort among the UW-Madison, UW-Extension, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with support from BW Communications.
These groups are working together to apply research and measurable goals to determine effective ways to recruit hunting mentors and first-time hunters, continuing and strengthening Wisconsin’s hunting and conservation heritage.
Q: What is the Hunters’ Network Pledge?
A: Hunters may sign the Mentored Hunting Pledge/Be a Hero of Hunting and, thereby, pledge to mentor a new hunter within 12 months either through Mentored Hunting or through a Learn to Hunt event. Pledges may be found online at HuntersNetwork.org or by calling 608-833-2040.
Q: What is Heroes of Hunting?
A: When hunting mentors fulfill their pledges to mentor a new hunter within 12 months, they can choose to have their names and cities of residence featured on GanderMountain.com, acknowledging them as Heroes of Hunting.
Q: What is Mentored Hunting?
A: Mentored hunting is a way to introduce someone new to the hunting experience. The first-time hunter must be at least 10 years old; possess the appropriate hunting license, permits and tag; and must hunt within arm’s reach of a mentor who is 18 years of age or older.
Q: What is Learn to Hunt?
A: Learn to Hunt (LTH) is an educational opportunity designed to help novice hunters, both youth and adults, have a high quality and safe hunting experience under the guidance of qualified hunting mentors. Under the supervision of the Wisconsin DNR, local conservation clubs and organization sponsor LTH event. During LTH, first-time hunters receive both classroom and field instruction prior to the hunting experience. First-time hunters are paired one-on-one with qualified mentors.
Q: May any outdoors group take part in Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin’s efforts?
A: We, at Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin, welcome other groups to conduct LTH events and welcome individuals to participate in LTH and Mentored Hunting. If you’d like more information regarding these opportunities, you may visit HuntersNetwork.org.
Regarding our pilot marketing program, we welcome input and advice from any hunting/conservation organization that aim to enhance our marketing efforts. Currently, due to resource limitations, the four previously mentioned organizations will represent a baseline for program measurement.
Q: Where do I go to learn more about Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin?
A: Interested individuals and groups may visit HuntersNetwork.org or contact Dan Gunderson at 608.833.2040 or DanGunderson@tds.net At HuntersNetwork.org; you may also find a list of events at which you can find Hunters’ Network of Wisconsin.
