Nelson awarded for 30 years of firearms safety training
One of my favorite duties as a DNR conservation officer is recognizing volunteer instructors for their dedicated service to Minnesota and our community.
Last week I visited with George Nelson at his Round Lake home. I awarded him with a beautiful outdoors print for his 30 years as a volunteer firearms safety instructor with the DNR.
Nelson has been an avid sportsman since he received his first BB gun at age 7. At age 11, he received a .22 caliber rifle. He learned at a young age the importance of firearms safety.
The now retired veterinarian came to Brainerd in 1970. He moved to his residence on Round Lake in 1975.
George Nelson received an outdoor print for his volunteer efforts.
At that time he began teaching firearms safety with Mark Muesing. Both men have enjoyed sharing their knowledge of hunting, ATVs, trapping, dogs, first aid, survival safety, land navigation and water safety.
Nelson said he's encouraged by the number of youths participating in the DNR's safety education programs in the Brainerd area. His advice to young hunters is simple: "Always know where the muzzle is pointed, and always choose your hunting partners carefully. Trust them with your life."
Nelson said he hopes to continue teaching firearms safety as long as he is able to. He also looks forward to helping other volunteer instructors complete their training classes.
As a DNR conservation officer, I look forward to presenting this award to many more volunteer instructors in our community. If you're interested in becoming an instructor, visit the DNR Web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us. Click on "safety training" to research more about becoming a volunteer instructor. Instructors are needed for firearms, snowmobiles, ATVs and advanced hunter classes.
As always, stay safe, have fun and I'll see you out there!
JIM GUIDA, DNR conservation officer, can be reached at 825-3828.