The next statewide Safety and Education in Shooting Sports (SESS) Leader Training for volunteers is scheduled for March 27-29, 2009, at the Iowa 4-H Center. All volunteers and staff who would like to work with youth in the following shooting sports disciplines must be trained at the statewide SESS Leader Training: Coordinator, Riflery (air rifle and small bore), Shotgun, Muzzleloading, Archery, or Wildlife Skills (a NEW discipline).

It is required that one leader from each county participating in this training must register for the coordinator discipline. New volunteers must complete the Child Protection Safety Program screening by the registration deadline.

If the registration has been received at the State 4-H office by March 6, the cost of the training is $120 per person. This amount includes six meals, and instruction materials. If registration is received after March 6, the cost will increase to $140 per person. Thanks go to the National Wild Turkey Federation and Brownells for underwriting the costs of materials and instruction.

Directions, a tentative agenda, additional information as well as registration and health forms are locate http://www.extension.iastate.edu/4H/SESS/Documents/SESSstateLeaderTrainingSpring09.pdf

This program is one of the fastest growing 4-H programs throughout the nation. People who make great leaders are county conservation board employees with young children, policemen and policewomen, Iowa guard, grandparents who love to hunt, etc.

Washington County currently has a shooting sports club, the Bows & Bullets. The Washington County Extension Office will pay the registration fee for those who would like to be trained to work with the Bows & Bullets 4-H club. For more information, contact the Washington County Extension Office, 319/653-4811.