1-Day Hunter Education Safety Course Offered at Nature Center

Arkansas wildlife officials to lead training this Saturday in Yellville

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is hosting an in-person Hunter Education course this Saturday at the Fred Berry Crooked Creek Nature Center in Yellville. The all-day class will cover topics like tree stand safety and include a final exam, with students who pass receiving their certification card that day.

Why it matters

Hunter education courses are required for anyone born after 1969 to legally hunt in Arkansas, ensuring new hunters develop safe and responsible practices. The in-person format allows for hands-on demonstrations that can't be replicated online.

The details

The course will be led by wildlife officer Tim Davenport and additional AGFC staff. It will include instruction, a lunch break, and a final exam. Topics will cover essential safety and responsibility for new hunters, with a focus on one of the leading causes of hunting accidents - tree stand safety.

  • The hunter education course will take place this Saturday, February 26, 2026.
  • Registration for the course ends on Friday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Tim Davenport

A wildlife officer with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission who will be leading the hunter education instruction.

Heather Pitman

The facility manager at the Fred Berry Crooked Creek Nature Center, where the hunter education course will be held.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC)

The state agency responsible for managing Arkansas' wildlife and natural resources, including offering hunter education courses.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The in-person class allows for hands-on demonstrations and instruction that can't be replicated online.”

— Heather Pitman, Facility Manager (KTLO)

What’s next

Registration for the hunter education course ends on Friday, February 25, 2026. Students who pass the course will receive their certification card that same day.

The takeaway

This hunter education course provides an important opportunity for new hunters in Arkansas to develop the safety skills and responsible practices needed to enjoy the sport while prioritizing public safety. The in-person format allows for hands-on learning that supplements the online curriculum.