Free Trapping Course at Indiana’s Salamonie Lake, Oct. 6-7

Salamonie Lake and the Indiana State Trappers Association (ISTA) will host a free trappers education course Oct. 6 and 7 at the Salamonie Interpretive Center.

The program is for all ages, though youth participants are especially encouraged to attend.

The program starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6, with education on trapping issues, ethics, and regulations.

Saturday afternoon, participants will accompany an instructor on the trap line and set traps under close supervision. Traps will be left overnight and checked Sunday morning. Furbearers that are caught on the trap line will be used in skinning and fleshing demonstrations by ISTA instructors.

Lunch will be provided on both days. Participants will not need a trapping license to attend. Entrance fees will be waived for all participants.

Participants must register by Sept. 30 by calling Upper Wabash Interpretive Services at (260) 468-2127. Trappers must attend both day-sessions of the course to receive DNR Trapper Education Certification.

Participants may want to bring waterproof boots or hip waders and should dress for the weather. Free camping on Friday and Saturday nights is available for attendees at Lost Bridge Youth Campground, near the interpretive center.

The Salamonie Interpretive Center is in Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area, west of Highway 105 in western Huntington County.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."