The 2011 hunting season is approaching, and the Central Whidbey Sportsmen’s Association wants to make sure hunters are legal and trained.

As part of its ongoing Firearms Safety Program, the CWSA is offering a hunter education class in early August. The course is free and all necessary materials will be furnished. Pre-registration is required.

The class is open to all hunters, but in particular for those born after Jan. 1, 1972. According to Washington state law, individuals born after that date must show proof they have completed a hunter education class when purchasing a hunting license.

The class consists of four sessions. Individuals must attend all four sessions to receive a certificate of completion. Sessions will meet from 6 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 3 through Aug. 5, and from
9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 6.

All sessions will be held at the CWSA clubhouse, located 2.5 miles south of Coupeville. Anyone with questions or those interested in registering may call Sam Weatherford at 914-0354 or John Boling at 969-2440. Online registration is required; go to wdfw.wa.gov/hunting.