Battle Creek Hosts Combination Hunter and Bow Hunter Education Field Day

Battle Creek Police Department is hosting a combination hunter and bow hunter education field day on August 1, allowing participants to complete both certification requirements in a single program. This convenient option helps new hunters satisfy Michigan legal requirements while learning essential safety skills.

Who Needs Hunter Education?

Michigan law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1960, to complete an approved hunter education course before purchasing a hunting license. This requirement applies to both firearm hunters and bow hunters.

The combination course offered in Battle Creek allows participants to satisfy both certification requirements through one comprehensive program, saving time and providing thorough training in both hunting methods.

Prerequisites: Complete the Classroom Portion First

Before attending the field day on August 1, students must complete the classroom portion of the course. There are two options available:

Option 1: Online Coursework

Students can complete fee-based online courses through:

• hunter-ed.com - for hunter education

• bowhunter-ed.com - for bow hunter education

Students must bring completion certificates (also called vouchers) for both online courses to the field day. Important: Online course vouchers remain valid for 12 months after completion.

Option 2: Take-Home Study Materials

For those who prefer traditional study methods:

• Register for the field day first

• Pick up study materials at least one week before the event

• Complete all chapter review questions

• Bring completed review questions to the beginning of the field day

What to Expect at the Field Day

The field day serves as the required hands-on portion of the course. Participants will receive instruction from certified volunteer instructors and Michigan conservation officers in:

• Firearm safety - proper handling, storage, and transportation

• Bow safety - archery equipment handling and safety protocols

• Responsible outdoor practices - ethics, conservation, and wildlife management

Students who successfully complete the field day will receive both hunter education and bow hunter education certifications, qualifying them to purchase Michigan hunting licenses for both firearms and archery equipment.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026

Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: Battle Creek Police Department Community Room, 34 N. Division St., Battle Creek, MI

What to Bring:

• Completion certificates/vouchers from online courses (if applicable)

• Completed chapter review questions (if using take-home study)

• Lunch (a break will be provided during the program)

• Pen and paper for notes

• Comfortable clothing appropriate for outdoor activities

How to Register

Registration is required and space is limited. To secure your spot:

• Visit michigan.storefront.kalkomey.com

• Search for the Battle Creek combination field day event

• Complete the registration process

Note for Parents: Parents or guardians registering a child without an email address can create an account and use the Linking Accounts feature to complete registration. Course updates and event information will be sent to the email address connected to the parent or guardian account.

Why Hunter Education Matters

Hunter education programs have significantly reduced hunting-related accidents since their inception. These courses teach:

• Safe firearm and archery equipment handling

• Wildlife identification and management

• Hunting laws and regulations

• Outdoor survival skills

• Conservation ethics

• Respect for landowners and other outdoor enthusiasts

By completing hunter education, new hunters join a community committed to safe, responsible, and ethical hunting practices that protect both people and wildlife resources.

Additional Information

For more details about the field day, registration, or hunter education requirements:

• Visit battlecreekmi.gov

• Contact the Battle Creek Police Department

• Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website

Whether you are a new hunter preparing for your first season or someone returning to hunting after a long absence, this combination field day provides comprehensive training that will help you enjoy Michigan hunting opportunities safely and responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need both hunter education and bow hunter education certifications?

A: If you plan to hunt with both firearms and archery equipment, yes. Each certification is specific to the hunting method. The combination field day allows you to earn both certifications in one program.

Q: Can I complete the entire course online?

A: No. Michigan requires all hunter education students to complete a hands-on field day component. The online coursework satisfies the classroom portion, but you must attend an in-person field day to receive certification.

Q: Is there a fee for the field day?

A: The field day itself is typically free, though the online coursework options (hunter-ed.com and bowhunter-ed.com) charge fees for their programs. Check the registration website for current pricing.