GLADWIN, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A Gladwin man is the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 2024 Hunter Education Instructor of the Year.

Dale Hendershot said the award is humbling. “There are many deserving instructors, and I’m honored that my peers felt I was deserving of this,” he said.

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Since 1991, Hendershot has instructed some 200 classes and taught more than 6,400 students. In addition, Hendershot served as president of the Red Flannel Rod and Gun Club and the Michigan Trapper and Predator Callers Association.

“Passionate volunteers like Dale are the core of Michigan’s recreational safety programs,” said Lt. Tom Wanless, DNR recreational safety, education and enforcement supervisor. “His enthusiasm is displayed by his willingness to teach at a variety of schools and clubs in his community and beyond, whether the curriculum focuses on hunter, trapping or bow-hunter education.”

Hunter education, which is managed by the DNR, teaches firearm safety, basic first aid, and outdoor navigational instruction to 14,000 students each year. Click here to learn more.