Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

DEEP is continuing to carry out its mission and provide services while keeping both the public and our workforce safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here for the latest updates on DEEP's response to COVID-19. DEEP COVID-19 Response

Connecticut's Conservation Education/Firearms Safety Program

Effective July 17, 2020
FIREARMS HUNTING CLASSES WILL RESUME IN AUGUST 2020.
Students are required to complete all online prerequisites prior to attending a modified firearms field day event. Bowhunting safety classes are coming soon. Please see full details HERE. Hunting and Trapping Education

Welcome to Connecticut's Conservation Education and Firearms Safety (CE/FS) Program – for the education of hunters and trappers.

Conservation Education/Firearms Safety courses are administered by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's Wildlife Division and are taught throughout the year by a dedicated corps of certified volunteer instructors. Certifications are offered in the disciplines of Firearms Hunting, Bowhunting, and Trapping. 

Licenses and Permits: Online Sportsmen Licensing

For more information about the CE/FS Program, contact the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011 (deep.franklinwildlife@ct.gov)

Hunter Safety Manual CoverConnecticut Hunter Safety Manual: The hunter safety course manual is available for download in two ways. You can download the entire manual in one large zip file or you may download individual chapters.

Tree Stand Safety: Improper use of tree stands is one of the most common causes for injuries and death to hunters in the field. For free online instruction on the proper use of tree stands and safety harnesses, go to www.huntercourse.com/treestandsafety.

The Connecticut CE/FS Program receives 75% of its funds from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program. The remaining 25% state match is derived by using the value of the services provided by the volunteer instructors. The Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program is funded by the excise tax paid by sportsmen on rifles, shotgun, ammunition, handguns, and archery equipment.

Partnering to fund conservation and connect people with nature.

Related Information:

Related Organizations:

Content last updated on July 17, 2020.