I would like to take this opportunity to inform you of some of the opportunities that we have available through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Shooting Sports Program.

We are currently working hard to make the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) available by offering Basic Archery Instruction training courses to any Ag Ed or PE teacher that is interested. We are also able to offer grants that can be used to purchase the equipment that is needed to start a program in your school.

We are developing Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) events throughout the state. Many of the activities in these events will mirror some of the events that are a part of the Forestry and ENR CDEs.

We are putting together several Hunt and Learn events for the beginning hunters.

As a former Ag Ed teacher/FFA advisor, I completely understand what is required of you on a daily basis in order to provide quality instruction to and have a successful program. I do not want to put anything more on your plate. What I do want to do is encourage you to explore our DNR website. Click on the education tab and then shooting sports to see what we have to offer. I think that we have avenues that can be used to supplement and enhance the things that you teach and do daily.

Please feel free to contact me or the shooting sports coordinator in your area. We would enjoy meeting with you to discuss the opportunities available.

Mark Swords
Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Resources Division
Shooting Sports Coordinator-Southwest
1024 MLK Blvd
Fort Valley, GA 31030
478-825-6354 phone
478-825-6420 fax
678-332-8461 cell